The Soundtrack of Our Lives Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with alt-rock artist GUNNAR to talk about his journey, creative evolution, and what’s next. He opens up about the inspiration behind his upcoming album, how the songs have taken on new meaning over time, and his intent to blend the raw energy of rock with the accessibility of pop. GUNNAR walks us through his songwriting process—starting with melodies before crafting lyrics—and how this project is his most authentic yet. He also reflects on recent tour experiences, including supporting Maroon 5 in Europe, and shares the emotional highs of connecting with dedicated fans at shows. Beyond music, we chat about how he balances life on the road with personal passions like travel, golf, and real estate.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, we chat with Bridge the Gap about the band’s evolution, the release of their long-awaited new album, and the realities of balancing music with everyday life. He reflects on transitioning from his former band to forming Bridge the Gap, and how the group navigated a year-long delay due to label negotiations. We discuss the band’s roots in '90s punk rock, how they stay active despite full-time jobs and families, and the effort it takes to stand out in today’s crowded streaming landscape. He also shares thoughts on the importance of production quality, how the band tailors their seasonal touring schedule, and why fan connection—especially through platforms like Instagram and their merch store—is crucial in today’s scene.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, The Messenger Birds join us to talk about the band’s creative evolution, musical influences, and their boundary-pushing new EP GRAMMY AWARD WINNING ALBUM IT'S ALL A BLUR. Blending gritty rock roots with a fresh, synth-driven sound, the EP captures the band’s willingness to experiment and follow curiosity wherever it leads. He opens up about his open-ended songwriting process, choosing emotional resonance over literal meaning and encouraging listeners to find their own interpretations. We also explore the band’s inspirations and how they balance raw authenticity with studio experimentation.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, Taken By Tides dives into the realities of being an independent band, sharing honest insights on balancing day jobs with creative goals, the importance of open communication, and the behind-the-scenes work that powers their momentum. The band discusses the emotional intensity of their live shows—described as a journey through heaviness, sadness, and catharsis—now elevated by a new light production and carefully curated setlist. They reflect on the diversity of their musical influences, ranging from video game soundtracks to classic rock, and offer practical advice for emerging artists around financial planning, goal alignment, and smart delegation.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, DØUBLE IDENTITY joins us to talk all things music, mental health, and creative evolution. We dive into the band’s vibrant new single “The Party,” a track that blends spontaneous studio moments with long-planned visual concepts, reflecting their shift toward a brighter, more upbeat sound. They share insights on the challenges of live performance, from adapting studio recordings to the stage to managing multiple guitar parts in real time. They also opens up about the pressures of social media, streaming anxiety, and the impact these have on artist privacy and well-being. Throughout the conversation, we explore how DØUBLE IDENTITY is redefining their identity—literally and musically—while continuing to build momentum with live shows, and new music in the works.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode we sit down with Wounded Touch, to explore the band’s journey, their creative evolution, and what lies ahead. They reflect on the band’s growth, the passion that fuels their high-energy live performances, and the intentional effort they bring to every stage—no matter the crowd size. He offers an inside look at the making of their upcoming sophomore album A Vivid Depiction of Collapse, a project that leans into early-2000s nostalgia while showcasing the band’s refined identity. He opens up about the balancing act of pursuing music while raising a family and working full-time, sharing an honest perspective on commitment, sacrifice, and perseverance. He also offers advice to aspiring artists about staying grounded in reality while staying true to their passion.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, we chat with Sofia Gillani, an independent singer-songwriter based in London, about her evolving music style, creative process, and exciting summer plans. Sofia reflects on her journey so far, including her shift to exploring upbeat genres like drill, rap, and drum and bass for a more energetic vibe. She shares insights into her songwriting process, emphasizing how she develops melodies and often discards more melancholic tracks to align with her current artistic direction.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, we chat with Saphir Levi about her artistic journey, personal growth, and the release of her new single, which she describes as her most authentic and cohesive work to date. Saphir shares her excitement about becoming a dog mom to her Italian greyhound. She also opens up about balancing her music career with her studies to become a paralegal, finding fulfillment in both creativity and structure. The conversation touches on self-care, including the role of affirmations in maintaining a positive mindset.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editors: Yaba Ahounou and Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

Tyler and Alex of MOVIESTARZ join us to talk about their explosive debut single, the story behind their band, and the immersive world they’re building with their upcoming album. Get ready for big sounds, bold visuals, and even bigger dreams.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman

In this episode, we chat with Bells Larsen about their artistic journey, creative process, and the inspiration behind their upcoming sophomore album, Blurring Time. Bells reflects on the deeply personal nature of the new record, which uniquely blends vocals recorded before and after their gender transition to explore themes of identity, transformation, and self-love. They discuss the challenges and creative decisions involved in harmonizing across time, and how embracing both versions of their voice helped subvert traditional before-and-after trans narratives. Bells shares the importance of representing universal human experiences—love, change, and growth—through a queer lens, while offering insight into their songwriting process and the vibrant, ever-shifting Montreal music scene.

Host: Mackayla Wiseman

Audio Editor: Mackayla Wiseman

Script Writer: Mackayla Wiseman