Host Jason English welcomes Stella Prince, hailed as the face of Gen Z folk, for a conversation recorded at AmericanaFest after her first official showcase at Nashville’s female-owned venue, Anzie Blue. Prince reflects on growing up in Woodstock, New York, singing as a child with artists like Pete Seeger, and her early drive to work in music, including being a 12-year-old radio DJ spinning 1930s–40s big band and writing music reviews. She discusses making folk mainstream again, the generational appeal of the genre, and inspirations like Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and Judy Collins, plus contemporaries like Laufey. Prince describes building an all-women team, recording her debut EP in Laurel Canyon, and releasing her first sync—a Hallmark film featuring her reimagined “(They Long to Be) Close to You.” She also shares songwriting shaped by Gen Z anxiety, inflation, and newfound independence, and performs “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” and her original “Good Luck Is Hard to Find.”00:00 Folk Across Generations

00:28 Podcast Intro and Guest Setup

02:42 AmericanaFest Milestone

04:38 Why Folk Feels Real Now

05:34 Making Folk Mainstream Again

06:13 Gen Z Jazz Inspiration

08:21 Woodstock Roots and Early Magic

09:27 Radio DJ and Big Band Years

11:00 DIY Hustle to Building a Team

13:04 All Women Team and Industry Gaps

13:45 Women on the Road

14:42 Laurel Canyon Recording Dream

15:23 Career First at 21

16:26 EP Plans and Hallmark Sync

17:57 Songwriting From Independence

18:35 Gen Z Pressure and Anxiety

20:55 Curiosity and Defining Success

23:14 Live Performance Session

26:04 Original Song Closing

Bird on AmericanaFest, Accidental Filmmaking, and Storytelling Through Music | Curious Goldfish PodcastHost Jason English welcomes Janie, who performs as Bird, to the Curious Goldfish Podcast in Nashville during AmericanaFest. Bird, half Irish and half English, grew up in London, is based in Italy, and is increasingly working in the U.S. after receiving an O-1 visa. She discusses Irish storytelling roots, her classical cello training from age six, learning drums at 11, and influences ranging from Jacqueline du Pré to Led Zeppelin and Bob Dylan that shaped her Americana sound. Bird explains the origin of her stage name, her “accidental filmmaker” path after a cinematic album stalled during COVID, and her short films “Wider Than the Sky” and “You Found a Friend in Elvis,” inspired by a Roy Orbison story. She outlines festival strategy, upcoming full-length film plans, two EPs (“Heads or Tales” and “Strange as Folk”) and a vinyl release, touring via Café Nero, and performs “The Tides” solo on cello for the first time.00:00 Irish Storytelling Roots

00:55 Podcast Welcome and Guest Intro

02:56 Meeting at AmericanaFest

03:35 AmericanaFest Buzz and US Plans

04:44 Why the Name Bird

07:22 Accidental Filmmaker Origin

09:12 Elvis and Roy Orbison Mystery

11:15 Festival Strategy and No Money

12:45 Third Film Tease and Timeline

14:13 Back to Music Classical Beginnings

15:13 Drums and Rock Influences

15:56 Irish Storytelling Roots

17:24 Albums and Genre Evolution

17:52 Heads or Tales EP

18:28 Why Two EPs

19:17 Folk Horror Inspiration

21:17 Lockdown Demos in Italy

22:27 Touring and Future Plans

25:19 Curiosity and Connection

27:58 The Tides Closing Song

Stephanie Sammons: Financial Planner by Day, Songwriter by Calling | Curious Goldfish with Jason EnglishHost Jason English welcomes Stephanie Sammons to Curious Goldfish in Nashville for a conversation about her dual life as a Dallas-based financial planner and an emerging songwriter. Stephanie explains her holistic approach to wealth management—combining financial planning, tax planning, and investment management—while emphasizing the importance of behavior, long-term perspective, and living fully rather than following rigid rules. She shares how she decided to “go pro” as a songwriter without leaving her career, motivated by a desire to avoid regret and stop waiting for permission to be herself, including encouragement from songwriter Mary Gauthier to claim the title of songwriter. Stephanie discusses her Southern Baptist upbringing in Missouri, how coming out created a decade-long family disconnect, and how reconciliation eventually developed into mutual respect, including her parents’ relationship with her wife and their grandchildren. The episode explores themes of faith, nuance, fear, optimism, and how personal experiences become songwriting material, including her song “Faithless” and the origins of “Innocence Lost,” inspired by a childhood memory of shooting a bird with a BB gun and later shaped in a Mary Gauthier workshop. Stephanie notes she released her 2024 album “Time and Evolution” and is currently recording a second full-length album with Mary Bragg, expected in early 2026. The episode closes with Stephanie performing “Innocence Lost.”00:00 Music, Faith, and Finding a Hopeful Perspective

01:01 Welcome to Curious Goldfish + Meet Stephanie Sammons

03:15 Nashville Intro & Why Her Songs Hit So Hard

04:07 Holistic Financial Planning: Retirement, Spending, and Mindset

06:53 Market Chaos, Long-Term Optimism, and Tuning Out the Noise

08:05 Day Job vs. Art: Going Pro Without Quitting10:57 ‘Build Your Own Adventure’ + Claiming the Title Songwriter

12:06 No More Excuses: Regret, Calling, and Making the Leap

14:10 Faith Deconstruction in Americana Music (and Why It’s Taboo)16:52 Southern Baptist Roots, Sexuality, and a Complicated Belief

18:10 The ‘Billboard Sign’ Lyric: Family Rejection and Its Aftermath

18:59 Rebuilding the Relationship: From Pedestal to Reconciliation

19:40 The Turning Point: Letting Go and Parents Coming Back Around

21:33 Agreeing to Disagree: Family, Marriage, Kids, and Mutual Respect

22:30 Will Sexuality Always Be the Headline? Identity Beyond Coming Out

23:31 Deep-Cut Songs & ‘Innocence Lost’: Writing Empathy in the South

26:57 How a Workshop Sparked ‘Innocence Lost’ (Mary Gauthier Story)

27:46 Why Songwriting Is the Joy (and Co-Writing as the Next Step)

28:53 ‘Faithless’ and Living with Nuance: Doubt, Privilege, and Worldview

31:06 Going Pro, New Doors, and Album #2 in the Works (2026)32:02 What She’s Most Curious About: Media, Fear, and the Swinging Pendulum

34:39 Closing Thanks + Live Performance: ‘Innocence Lost’

Morgan Myles on ‘Laced’: Turning a Broken Engagement into an Album, Surviving Nashville, and Staying Authentic in the AI EraIn this Curious Goldfish episode hosted by Jason English, singer-songwriter Morgan Myles discusses her upcoming album Laced (releasing February 13 on Galentine’s Day) and the personal upheaval that shaped it, including calling off her wedding, buying and then selling a house with her ex-fiancé, and touring through the chaos. She explains how the album title shifted from Language of Flowers to Laced, describing lace as delicate yet resilient, and shares how she used her 20-foot wedding veil—taken to Joshua Tree two weeks after the breakup—as the album cover. Morgan compares Laced to her 2020 album Therapy, outlines the two-year process of writing 80 songs in five months and narrowing them to 12 for vinyl with producer Ross Hogarth, and talks about performing while dealing with stress, compartmentalizing, faith, and negativity on social media. The conversation explores how fans can support artists in streaming, emphasizing that actively searching for an artist and listening to full songs signals algorithms, and addresses the flood of AI-generated music and its impact on songwriters, demo singers, session players, and industry economics. Morgan shares her view of authenticity, discusses songwriting themes like gaslighting and the power of words, and explains protecting vulnerability by staying close to trusted people. She talks about writing with Gary Nichols, what she learns from his perspective, and highlights tracks including “Love Is Lonesome” and “American Sky,” which she wrote to evoke bipartisan hope while addressing phone toxicity, food chemicals, veteran support, financial education, school tragedies, and media hate. Morgan reflects on her positive experience on The Voice as valuable exposure, her goals of continuing to write, tour, and build her fanbase, and ends by sharing what she’s curious about now—especially history and learning how to meditate.00:00 From ‘Language of Flowers’ to ‘Laced’: the veil that became the album cover

01:09 Welcome to Curious Goldfish + quick listener survey on streaming & AI

02:24 Meet Morgan Myles: survival, breakup inspiration, and authenticity in the AI era

03:38 Ice storm in Nashville: weather chaos and keeping the lights on

05:28 Laced release week + comparing the new album to Therapy

10:32 80 songs in 5 months: choosing the final tracklist with Ross Hogarth

11:55 The symbolism of lace: engagement, heartbreak, and women’s stories

13:33 Performing through pain: staying joyful onstage and handling trolls

16:59 How fans can help in the streaming era: algorithms, full listens, and search intent

21:06 AI in music: inevitable shift, lost royalties, and protecting the soul of songs

27:29 Breaking Down the Album: Passion, Despair & Song Themes

28:56 Why Words Matter: Songwriting, Gaslighting & Relationship Red Flags

30:29 Vulnerability vs Self-Protection (and Handling Online Judgment)

33:03 Pet Peeves & “Icks”: Attention, Alone Time, and Basic Respect34:09 Writing with Gary Nichols: Process, Perspective & Musical Authenticity37:24 “Love Is Lonesome”: When Love Hurts and How to Nurture It

39:54 “American Sky”: Hope, Division, and a Bipartisan Message

45:56 Where She’s Headed Next: Career Goals, The Voice, and Staying Grateful

49:55 Final Question: What She’s Most Curious About (History, Meditation & Life)

52:37 Wrap-Up: Album Release, Thanks, and Where to Stream

Pete Muller on Curiosity, Music, and Living in the Present | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English dives into an engaging conversation with Pete Muller, a multifaceted talent who excels in quantitative finance, crossword puzzle creation, philanthropy, and music. Pete shares insights on living in the present, the dangers of nostalgia, and his journey from finance to becoming a singer-songwriter. They discuss Pete's new album 'One Last Dance', his love for yoga and surfing, and the importance of staying curious and excited about the future. Pete also reveals his efforts in saving the iconic Power Station studio and supporting independent music venues across America. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about balancing professional success with personal passions.

00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Present Excitement

00:57 Welcome to Curious Goldfish0

1:46 Meet Pete Muller: A Multifaceted Talent

05:10 Pete's Journey in Quantitative Finance

09:06 Crossword Puzzles and Quantitative Finance

13:34 The Art of Poker and Emotional Control

15:25 Living in the Present: Yoga, Surfing, and Music

21:21 Redefining Success and Personal Reflections

21:43 The Antisocial Camp Experience

22:56 Finding Joy in Small Moments

23:37 The Journey Towards Spirituality

24:47 Balancing Resources and Authenticity in Music

27:13 The Challenge of Connecting with the Audience

28:30 Creating Music and Personal Growth

28:57 Future Plans and Goals as an Artist

30:47 Recording at Peter Gabriel's Studio

33:46 Supporting the Arts and Philanthropy

34:48 Reviving the Iconic Power Station Studio

38:46 Supporting Independent Music Venues

40:41 The Magic of Live Music

41:15 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

Exploring Musical Journeys and New Beginnings with Lydia Luce | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish Podcast, host Jason English sits down with the talented indie folk musician Lydia Luce. Lydia shares her journey from studying classical music in a conservatory to embracing a more relaxed and enjoyable indie folk career. She discusses her new album 'Mammoth,' detailing the inspiration behind each track. Lydia also opens up about her pregnancy and the balance between her music career and personal life. Don't miss this insightful conversation about music, creativity, and life's serendipitous moments.

00:00 Introduction to Lydia Luce's Musical Journey

01:09 Welcome to Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:52 Americana Fest and New Beginnings

03:05 Lydia's Personal and Professional Milestones

03:26 Balancing Music and Motherhood

04:40 The Joy of Indie Folk Music

07:04 Songwriting Inspirations and Processes

15:28 Exploring the New Album 'Mammoth'

18:12 Discussing the Hike and Its Challenges

18:58 Chronic Pain and Its Impact on Life

20:35 Pregnancy and Pain Management

22:56 Reflecting on Jesus Camp

27:00 Making Amends and Personal Growth

30:06 Curiosity About the Future

32:20 Conclusion and Performance

🎙️ Welcome to Curious Goldfish!Curious Goldfish is a podcast community where music and curiosity come together through meaningful conversations with the music makers of our world. It’s a music podcast about more than music, inspired by Ted Lasso. Hosted by Jason English, each episode dives into the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind some of the most captivating voices in Americana, rock, folk, country, and bluegrass.Whether it’s Grammy winners, rising stars, or undiscovered gems, we explore the creative journey, personal transformation, and the impact of place and purpose on art.📌 Subscribe & Join the Conversation!

Inside The Thing With Feathers: Nashville Dreams, Songwriting, and Ice Cream Debates | Curious Goldfish PodcastJoin Jason English on the Curious Goldfish Podcast as he delves into an intriguing conversation with Alex and Dave from the band The Thing With Feathers. Recorded on a back patio in Nashville, this episode covers their journey from different hometowns to Belmont University, their candid views on the music industry, and the essence of songwriting. They also discuss favorite Nashville ice cream spots, the Nashville music scene, and their upcoming album 'So Electric'. Tune in for a mix of light-hearted banter and deep reflections on the dreams and challenges of being musicians.

00:00 The Emotional Journey of Songwriting

00:48 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:40 Meet Alex and Dave of The Thing with Feathers

01:55 Life in Nashville and Belmont University

04:08 The Nashville Music Scene

10:25 Forming the Band and Early Days

10:57 The Dynamic Duo: Alex and Dave

13:37 The Serious Side of Their Music

16:59 Melody-Driven Music

18:06 New Album Insights

20:08 Reflecting on Success

26:20 Curiosity and Creativity

29:21 Closing Thoughts and Performance

Chasing Dreams in the Music Industry with Jason Hollis | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish Podcast, host Jason English sits down with veteran music industry professional Jason Hollis to discuss the ins and outs of pursuing a career in music. With a rich history spanning 30 years, Jason Hollis offers invaluable insights on avoiding common mistakes, the importance of having a clear plan, and why the future belongs to artists who own their content. He also shares his journey from Nashville to Los Angeles and back, his efforts to preserve the iconic Douglas Corner, and his vision for the newly launched eighth room. Additionally, they touch upon his upcoming book 'So You Wanna Be a Rockstar,' which aims to empower the next generation of musicians. Don't miss this in-depth conversation filled with practical advice and inspiring stories.00:00 The Biggest Mistake in Parenting Timelines01:08 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast01:59 Meet Jason Hollis: A Music Industry Veteran03:17 Jason's Journey: From Nashville to LA and Back07:22 Advice for Aspiring Musicians11:01 The Importance of Having a Plan11:44 Jason's New Book: So You Wanna Be a Rockstar14:23 The Thousand Fan Theory16:41 Building a Music Career Independently20:03 Jason's Early Career in LA23:06 The Viper Room and Music Legends25:46 Saving Douglas Corner in Nashville27:04 The Legacy of Douglas Corner29:17 The Birth of The Eighth Room29:45 Designing The Eighth Room31:35 Curating the Perfect Vibe40:13 The Music Industry's Evolution44:41 Investing in the Future of Music48:07 Curiosity and the Future of Music51:53 Final Thoughts and Farewell