The Soundtrack of Our Lives Podcast

Punk band Cheap Perfume joins us to talk about their upcoming album Don’t Care. Didn’t Ask. the stories behind their singles and how they’ve kept their band thriving for over a decade. They share insights on songwriting, memorable shows, and building community through bold, unapologetic music.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Hip-hop artist Big Jon joins us to share his journey from Baltimore classrooms and college stages to pursuing music full-time after a break in broadcasting. He opens up about the emotional and financial challenges of navigating the music industry, and how therapy and a supportive community have helped him push forward. We discuss the lessons he’s learned about avoiding predatory promotion tactics, building real connections, and finding balance as an independent artist.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Good Terms join the podcast to share stories from life on the road, the studio, and beyond. We dive into their recent tour, how a sudden loss of voice mid-show pushed them to get creative, and the experimental process behind their latest album. The band also open up about balancing music with personal projects—like restoring a 30-year-old Mustang—and tease what’s next on the horizon.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Singer-songwriter and music teacher Anna Karney joins us to talk about her new album One True Song and the balance between life in the classroom and on stage. She shares how her unique style of “conscious folk rock” weaves together influences from folk, rock, jazz, classical, and world music into a cohesive sound. We also dive into the ways teaching shapes her artistry, her advice for other musicians, and the importance of supporting independent artists.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Frame and Mantle join us to dive into their new album, discussing the evolution of their collaborative songwriting process and the layered, immersive sound that sets this record apart. Brian and Connor share the influences behind their heavier direction—from post-rock to 90s/2000s emo and grunge—and how unique elements like trumpet lines bring their music to life. We also talk about Pittsburgh’s tight-knit music scene, their upcoming Northeast and Midwest tour, and what it means to stay disciplined as an independent band.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Belmont joins us to talk about their EP, from the recording process to the creative evolution behind their latest sound. The band shares stories from the road, including unforgettable tour experiences and favorite destinations like Japan, Amsterdam, and Denver. We also get a glimpse into their future plans—new music, upcoming tour dates, and writing for their next full-length album.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Musician Ryan Woods joins us to discuss his long-awaited debut album, the emotions behind finally sharing these songs, and the themes of self-acceptance and personal growth woven throughout the record. He also opens up about his reflective songwriting process, the unique inspirations behind tracks like 'Gun in the Glovebox,' and his vision of the album as a soundtrack for a coming-of-age story beyond high school.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Singer-songwriter Maddy Michaels joins us to talk about her new single “When Can I Say (i'm finally okay)” and the post-graduation struggles that inspired it. She also shares practical digital marketing strategies for independent artists and her plans to move to Nashville to further her music career.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editors: Gabrielle Groves and Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Alley Eyes join us to talk about their new 5-song EP, bondage in the afternoon, and how it represents their most fully realized project to date. They share stories from the Milwaukee DIY music scene and what it’s like building community while carving out their own bold sound.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Nicole Ash joins us to talk about her first release in two years, Seeing Signs, and how it marks a new chapter in her sound. She shares details about her upcoming EP, her creative process, and what it’s like balancing perfectionism with authenticity while pushing her music in bold new directions.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman