Caught on the Mike...

Shane Weisman is stepping into his moment—and you can hear it all over Better Luck Tomorrow. 🎶

In this episode, the Nashville-based songwriter and producer breaks down the making of his deeply personal concept album, written and recorded in just six weeks. We get into the bold decision to start from scratch, the idea of “luck” as a driving theme, and the breakthrough moment where everything finally clicked.

It’s an honest, wide-ranging conversation about chasing your sound, trusting your instincts, and creating something that actually feels like you.

If you’re into real songwriting...

Chris and Jay from The Strike jump on the mic for a fun, honest conversation about how a group of California friends turned a college project in Utah into a globally touring band with one of the most loyal fanbases in indie pop.

We get into the early days, the LA roommate era, and how that brotherhood shaped their sound, plus what life looks like now balancing music with teaching careers, family, and everything in between. They also open up about their evolving creative process—writing and recording across different cities, collaborating with top-tier producers, and building their ne...

On this episode of Caught on the Mike, Mike sits down with guitarist, songwriter, and producer Greg Bergdorf. Greg spent more than 15 years as the lead guitarist and songwriter for Zebrahead, helping shape the band’s signature blend of punk, rap, and rock while touring the world and performing on festivals like Warped Tour.

Greg shares stories from the early Orange County music scene, the moment the band realized their music was reaching fans around the world, and what life was really like during the nonstop touring era of the late ‘90s and 2000s. He also reflects on the...

For more than two decades, Story of the Year have remained one of the most influential bands in post-hardcore and emo. From the massive success of Page Avenue and the breakout anthem Until the Day I Die, to a catalog that’s continued to evolve with every release, the band has built a legacy that still resonates with fans around the world.

On this episode of Caught on the Mike, I’m joined by drummer Josh Wills for a conversation about the band’s 20+ year journey, the pressure that followed their early success, and how they’ve continued to evolv...

Brian Joyce and Nick Trask of Major League join Caught on the Mike to talk about the band’s long-awaited return and the journey that led them back to the stage together.

Formed in 2009 in New Jersey, Major League built a passionate following through relentless DIY touring and emotionally driven pop-punk and emo anthems. Their early releases — including The Truth Is…, Variables, and the 2012 full-length Hard Feelings — became staples of the early 2010s scene and connected deeply with fans who grew up in the era of VFW shows, Tumblr culture, and cross-country van tours.

In this episode...

Ska-punk lifer Chris DeMakes joins Caught On The Mike for a conversation about longevity, songwriting, and three decades of turning punk shows into full-blown celebrations. As guitarist and vocalist of Less Than Jake, Chris has helped define the sound and spirit of ska-punk since the 1990s — blending big hooks, horn-driven chaos, and an unmatched connection with fans.

In this episode, we talk about the upcoming Wake & Bake hometown celebration in Gainesville, the anniversaries of the classic albums Losing Streak and Borders & Boundaries, and why Less Than Jake has managed to keep the party going for over 30 years without ev...

American Vanity joins Caught on the Mike for a deep dive into identity, image, and the evolution of modern rock.

Led by dual vocalists Virginia Franks (bass) and Luke Hoffman (guitar), alongside Luke Vanchure on lead guitar and Carter Dennis on drums, the band opens up about stepping into a bold new era after years of national touring as Burn The Jukebox. Now reintroduced as American Vanity, they’re sharpening their songwriting, amplifying their hooks, and confronting the tension between authenticity and performance in the attention economy.

We talk creative reinvention, the pressure of being seen, le...

On this episode of Caught On The Mike, Mike sits down with The Codefendants — the genre-smashing group of Sam King (Get Dead) and Julio “Ceschi” Ramos to talk about their explosive new chapter. We also talk about Fat Mike (of NoFx) recently taking the band to trio status.

We dive deep into their latest single “Rivals” featuring hip-hop legend The D.O.C., and how their second collaboration pushes the conversation about punk and hip-hop’s shared countercultural roots. The band opens up about blending scenes, battling gatekeepers, and why Crime Wave isn’t a genre — it’s a confession.

On this episode of Caught on the Mike, I sit down with Seattle singer-songwriter Dylan Espeseth to talk about his new single “Whine” — a stripped-back, emotionally direct track that came together in a burst of instinct and honesty.

We dive into the 15-minute writing session that sparked the song, why he intentionally leaned into a raw acoustic sound, and how teaching himself production during the pandemic completely reshaped his relationship with music. Dylan also reflects on the vulnerability behind “Falling Faster,” opening for The Rocket Summer, and what fans can expect from his debut full-length album arriving in 2026.

Fresh off his February 16th premiere on American Idol, Jake Thistle joins me on Caught on the Mike to talk about his latest single, “Sleep On Me” — a bold, confident statement from an artist stepping into his moment.

We break down the meaning behind the track, the edge and urgency in the songwriting, and how it reflects where Jake is mentally and creatively right now. With a sound rooted in classic ’70s and ’80s influence but sharpened for today, “Sleep On Me” feels like both a warning shot and a breakthrough.

We also get into his Idol experienc...

On this week’s episode of Caught on the Mike, I sit down with Kevin and Mike of Great Danes — a project built on experience, reinvention, and unfinished business.

Longtime fans will remember Kevin and Mike from their earlier chapter in Halifax, the melodic pop-punk/emo band that helped soundtrack the mid-2000s alternative scene with high-energy anthems and emotionally charged songwriting. After years of growth, perspective, and life beyond that era, they’ve reemerged with Great Danes — a band that feels more refined, more intentional, and creatively fearless.

In this conversation, we talk about what it reall...

What if the one word holding you back is the word you use the most?

On this episode of Caught on the Mike, Mike sits down with Carla Ondrasik—bestselling author of STOP TRYING!, former Vice President of Creative Writer Development at EMI Music Publishing, and the creator of the powerful No Try philosophy.

Carla spent over 20 years helping sell millions of records, working with legendary artists like Mariah Carey, Cher, NSYNC, and Christina Aguilera, and famously discovered John Ondrasik (Five for Fighting) by hearing him sing through a wall—and choosing to act. In this conv...

On this episode of Caught on the Mike, I’m joined by Sonia of Weakened Friends for a powerful conversation about resisting numbness, reclaiming creative freedom, and screaming without self-censorship when the world feels heavy.

We dive deep into the band’s latest album, Feels Like Hell, a raw, instinct-driven response to burnout, apathy, and the quiet nihilism of modern life. Sonia opens up about the emotional toll of overthinking their previous record Quitter, and how intentionally doing the opposite this time: writing fast, trusting impulse, and letting songs stay sharp and unpolished-reignited their creative spirit.

This...

Author and psychiatrist Justin C. Key returns to Caught on the Mike for a powerful, in-depth conversation surrounding his new novel The Hospital at the End of the World. In this episode, we dive into AI in healthcare, the dangers of automation, the human cost of data-driven medicine, and how real-world medical training inspired one of the most timely speculative fiction novels of the year.

Justin shares insight from his work as a practicing psychiatrist, the evolution from short fiction to novel writing, and why human connection in medicine can never be replaced by technology. We also talk...

Alt-pop artist CARR joins Caught on the Mike for an honest conversation about storytelling, fleeting relationships, and stepping into a bold new creative era.

Fresh off the release of her new single “Mud,” CARR breaks down how one unforgettable night turned into a cinematic anthem — and how moments that don’t last can still leave a permanent mark. She also dives into the making of her upcoming album CARRGIRRL, out March 20 via DCD2 Records, and what this next chapter represents for her as an artist.

We talk about her unconventional path into music, from late nights working...

Stanley Simmons: From Viral Moment to Americana Revival | Evan Stanley & Nick Simmons Interview

In this episode of Caught on the Mike, host Mike sits down with Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons, the folk-Americana duo behind Stanley Simmons, for a conversation about creativity, connection, and finding the right sound at the right time.

Though they’ve known each other their entire lives—and grew up immersed in music history as the sons of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons of KISS—they never intended to collaborate. That changed after a spontaneous viral Instagram video revealed an undeniable vocal chemis...

Five years in, Caught on the Mike has become more than just a podcast—it’s been a journey shaped by persistence, creativity, community, and a whole lot of unpredictability.

In this reflective solo episode, I look back on what 2025 represented for the show: 59 episodes released, countless conversations, personal milestones, and lessons learned along the way. From evolving the format to navigating noise, burnout, and social media negativity, this episode dives into why storytelling still matters and why showing up consistently is the real win.

We focus honestly about growth, resilience, and the importance of creating a po...

Bill Dess — better known as Two Feet — has become one of the most distinctive voices in modern music, fusing smoky guitar work, brooding electronic production, and raw emotional storytelling. In this episode, Bill opens up about the creative process behind his signature sound, the evolution of his artistry, and the personal moments that shaped fan-favorite tracks like “I Feel Like I’m Drowning” and “Go F**K Yourself.”

We explore how he approaches songwriting, what inspires his darker sonic textures, and how he’s navigated the pressures of rapid success in the digital age. Whether you discovered him through a viral...

In this special mini-episode of Caught on the Mike, host Mike sits down with the legendary Angelo Moore — frontman of Fishbone, creator of Dr. MadVibe, and one of the most influential voices in ska, punk, and funk culture.

Recorded while Angelo was literally taking a break from vacation, this shorter-than-usual conversation still packs all the energy, insight, and soul you’d expect from a man who has spent his life bending genres, breaking boundaries, and inspiring generations of musicians.

Angelo talks about his early years in Southern California, the origins of Fishbone, his evolution as Dr. MadV...

Pennywise bassist Randy Bradbury never set out to start a new band. But one day, inspiration struck — hard — and a stream of songs began pouring out of him like they were meant to exist. What began as a personal creative outlet quickly evolved into 84 Days, a full-blown rock project fueled by instinct, collaboration, and pure musical chemistry.

Joined by Grammy-winning producer Cameron Webb, the two shaped Randy’s raw demos into a powerful, melodic, punk-driven record featuring contributions from Adrian Young of No Doubt, Warren Fitzgerald of The Vandals, and Erik “Smelly” Sandin of NOFX for the live lineup.

In the third of three special episodes of Caught on the Mike, we’re joined by Hunter Harrison — a welterweight talent training between Factory X Muay Thai in Colorado and Skywalker 101 Boxing Academy in Nebraska. With a 4-1 amateur record and a reputation for crisp striking and relentless drive, Hunter steps into the cage Friday, November 21, 2025, at Dynasty Combat Sports: Seasons Beatings inside Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska.

We talk about how splitting time between two elite gyms sharpens his game, the mindset behind bouncing back stronger after setbacks, and what this fight means as he continues his...

In the second of 3 special episodes Omaha’s own Zayden Edwards joins Caught on the Mike ahead of Dynasty Combat Sports: Seasons Beatings, going down Friday, November 21, 2025, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska. Training out of Premier Combat Center, Zayden’s been putting in the work — bouncing back from a tough submission loss, refining his craft, and staying laser-focused on growth. Known for his fast finishes and all-heart performances, he’s ready to remind everyone why he’s one of Nebraska’s most promising young fighters.

In this episode, we talk training, mindset, and the grind of chasing grea...

In the first of 3 special episodes of Caught on the Mike, ahead of Dynasty Combat Sports Season's Beatings- Kaleb and Mike sit down with Lincoln’s own rising amateur MMA star, Easton Edmond — training out of Lincoln Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Center and fighting under the banner of Dynasty Combat Sports. With an unblemished 4-0 record, Easton is set to defend his interim lightweight title this Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska.

We dive into his training camp, the mindset that fuels his fight game, and what this hometown showdown really means. Whether you’re a figh...

What happens when two world-class musicians decide to take full creative control and make the music they’ve always envisioned?

In this episode of Caught on the Mike, host Mike welcomes Jimmy McGorman and Robb Vallier — the duo behind Flight To London — to talk about their debut album, Instructions for Losing Control.

After years of writing and producing for artists like Goo Goo Dolls, Avril Lavigne, Gin Blossoms, and Sabrina Carpenter, McGorman and Vallier reunite to create something that’s entirely their own: a lush, synth-driven exploration they call “NEW-stalgia.”

They dive into the inspirations...

In this episode, GRAMMY Award-winning artist and founding member of reggae royalty Morgan Heritage, Mojo Morgan, joins Caught on the Mike to share the heart and soul behind his deeply personal new project — Jamaica Love.

Following the passing of his brother and bandmate Peetah Morgan, Mojo channels his roots, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of family into a sound he calls “Rasta Rock” — blending reggae, soul, country, and hip-hop into a genre all his own.

We talk about legacy, healing, creativity, and how music becomes both a tribute and a torch to carry forward.
It’s an hones...

Rising singer-songwriter Brendan Abernathy joins Caught on the Mike to talk about the whirlwind journey behind his debut album, the kid who got it all wrong.

From a viral performance that caught the internet’s attention to years spent living out of his car and playing 700+ shows across the country, Brendan’s story is one of heart, hustle, and honest self-reflection. We dig into how he turned unexpected fame and heartbreak into a body of work that captures what it means to chase your dreams — even when you “get it wrong.”

A candid and inspiring conversation about crea...

Legendary drummer and Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee Frank Zummo joins the show to talk about his powerful new book, Unbreakable Rhythm: My Journey Through Music, Wellness, and Mental Strength.

Known for his work with Sum 41, Street Drum Corps, Mötley Crüe, and Linkin Park, Frank opens up about his path through music and how his workshops have evolved into a mission of mental wellness and resilience. We dig into the inspiration behind the book, the companion EP Feels, and how he continues to channel rhythm into healing and purpose.

This isn’t just a co...

From the underground industrial scene to the bright lights of pop stardom — and all the unexpected turns in between — Stella Soleil’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and raw creativity.

The Chicago native first made her mark working alongside icons like Ministry, Die Warzau, and 16 Volt before forming Sister Soleil, catching the attention of Universal Records, and landing a Top 40 hit with “Kiss Kiss.” Her voice would go on to be heard around the world — featured in Kiss the Girls, Underworld: Awakening, and even climbing international charts in multiple languages.

After a successful run in A&R and a po...

Atlanta’s own DAYDRNKRZ are breaking boundaries and turning heads with their signature mix of reggae-infused hip-hop and alternative rock. In this episode, the band dives deep into their creative process, the story behind their name, and how they’ve built a sound that feels both nostalgic and brand new.

Signed to SKP — the same label that’s home to 311, The Ries Brothers, and Sitting on Saturn — DAYDRNKRZ are carving their own lane in the modern alt scene. With their single “FMLU” making waves and their latest album “XOXO” capturing the highs and lows of life and love, this conversation...

Grammy®-nominated, platinum-selling artist John Ondrasik—better known as Five for Fighting—joins the show for an in-depth conversation about the music, meaning, and moments that have shaped his remarkable career.

From writing timeless hits like “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” and “100 Years” to performing for humanitarian causes around the world, John’s work continues to inspire reflection and resilience. We talk about his upcoming Five for Fighting with String Quartet Tour, the power of songwriting in uncertain times, and how music can still make a difference in a divided world.

🎶 Whether you grew up with his songs or just di...

What happens when over 225 musicians from 180 bands come together for the pure love of music? You get The Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown — a genre-bending collective that fuses funk, soul, rock, and hip hop into one massive creative explosion.

In this episode, founder John Heintz joins the show to talk about the project’s evolution, the spirit of collaboration, and the making of their latest album, Volume 3. From Parliament Funkadelic to Living Colour, Jane’s Addiction to Earth, Wind & Fire — the Getdown has united musical icons and rising stars in a way that defies labels and celebrates freedom.

Tune...

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Cinotto, a veteran of the Midwest rock and Nu Metal scene. From his early days in the Omaha-based Downshift to his current work with Narcotic Self, Dan has lived the evolution of heavy music firsthand.

He’s also the co-host of the podcast We Were Loud Once ‪@WeWereLoudOncePod‬ alongside Jeff Geaghan — where the two dig deep into the Nu Metal movement from the perspective of musicians who were actually part of it.

Together, Dan and I talk about that era’s energy, its impact on the Midwest scene, and why th...

Episode 200 | 5 Years!!!!

This episode marks a major milestone — 200 episodes and five years of Caught on the Mike conversations.

To celebrate, I’m joined by Howi Spangler the voice and driving force behind the long-running reggae rock band Ballyhoo!.

From their start in Aberdeen, Maryland, to years of relentless touring, Ballyhoo! has built a dedicated following with a sound that blends reggae, rock, punk, and pop. In this episode, Howi shares the band’s journey through early struggles, breakthrough moments, and the lessons learned along the way. We dive into the art of songwriting, the realit...

Bronx-born songwriter Ezra is stepping into a bold new chapter of his career. Fresh off the release of his emotionally-charged single “Intermission,” Ezra joins the show to talk about the heartbreak that inspired it, the cinematic mockumentary series accompanying his music, and the journey that led him from writing songs in his bedroom to signing with TAG Music founder Gabe Saporta.

With millions of streams, sold-out shows, and a debut album on the horizon for 2026, Ezra is quickly emerging as one of alternative pop’s most exciting new voices. In this episode, he shares stories of first love, creati...

Nights in Stereo isn’t just a band—it’s a story nearly two decades in the making. The LA-based trio, made up of 9-1-1: Lone Star’s Ronen Rubinstein, Jonny Shoer, and Rodrigo Rodarte, recently released their debut EP Second Nature—a collection that fuses retro-grunge, shoegaze, and indie pop into something cinematic, emotional, and timeless.

In this episode, the band opens up about the friendships and chance encounters that shaped their path, how the pandemic sparked a new creative era, and the process of reimagining old demos into something fresh and powerful. We also dive into Ronen...

Beauty School Dropout are shaking up the rock world — and in this episode, they join the conversation to talk about their explosive rise, their latest single “TWO OF US,” and their highly anticipated debut album Where Did All the Butterflies Go? Produced by the legendary Neal Avron (Fall Out Boy, twenty one pilots, Linkin Park), the album marks a bold new chapter for the band.

From the emotional depth behind “TWO OF US” to the creative chaos of recording tracks like “SEX APPEAL,” “FEVER,” and “ON YOUR LIPS,” BSD break down how they’re redefining rock for a new generation. We also...

Travie McCoy, frontman of Gym Class Heroes, joins me for an in-depth conversation about his artistic journey, the music that shaped him, and the legacy of a band that broke boundaries.

From forming Gym Class Heroes in high school to topping the charts with songs like Cupid’s Chokehold and Stereo Hearts, Travie reflects on how the band’s unique fusion of hip hop, rock, funk, and pop resonated with fans around the world. He opens up about personal growth, creativity, and the resilience it takes to keep evolving as an artist.

We also discuss collaborations with...

Baltimore alt-rock veterans Have Mercy are back with their sixth studio album, the loneliest place i’ve ever been—a record fueled by vulnerability, loss, and late-night reflections.

In this episode, frontman Brian Swindle opens up about the band’s journey from their early days in the Baltimore scene, through the highs of breakout albums like The Earth Pushed Back and A Place of Our Own, the heartbreak of loss and disbandment, and the revival that’s led to their most honest work yet.

We dive into the stories behind new singles “august 17” and “tv glows,” what it means to...

Grammy-winning trumpet player, producer, and songwriter Emiliano Torres and virtuoso singer Camilo Rafael Sierra join me for a deep dive into the world of Xperimento—Miami’s ultimate musical fusion squad.

Blending reggae, Latin soul, funk, and global sounds, Xperimento has been electrifying audiences since emerging from Miami’s underground music scene in 2009. Along the way, they’ve shared the stage with legends like Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin, Juanes, and even had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of Prince jumping in on one of their shows. Their chemistry as lifelong friends, combined with the band’s multicultural roots—spanning Puerto Rico, Argent...

Ten years ago, X Ambassadors changed the alt-rock landscape with their debut album VHS, delivering unforgettable anthems like “Renegades” and “Unsteady.” Now, frontman Sam Nelson Harris reflects on a decade of growth, success, and transformation as the band prepares to release VHS(X)—a bold reimagining of the record that first put them on the map.

In this conversation, Sam talks about revisiting the songs that launched their career and what they mean to him today, the creative process of breathing new life into fan favorites, and how re-recording tracks like “Renegades” offered surprising new perspectives. He also shares what fa...