Almost Famous Enough
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
ep52 Brandon Wolfe Scott non blonde
Brandon on Yukon Blonde, solo music, and building a sustainable creative life
Brandon talks with Glen Erickson about balancing his long-running role in Yukon Blonde with solo work, how a busy Canadian indie career has evolved over 20 years, and what it takes to keep making music without burning out. They also discuss the Vancouver music scene, trusted collaborators, and how visual art continues to shape his songwriting.
Feature moments
Brandon reflects on early acclaim, touring momentum, and the burnout that followed.He explains how Yukon Blonde rebuilt its team and...ep51 Joel Plaskett thinking out loud
Joel Plaskett on music, identity, and the tension between analog life and AI
Joel Plaskett joins Glen Erickson for a wide-ranging conversation that moves from privacy and digital fatigue to the realities of sustaining a long music career. They unpack what it means to make art in an increasingly algorithmic world, reflecting on place, age, and the changing shape of creative work. Joel shares how his life has been split between Nova Scotia and Vancouver Island, why that tension remains creatively productive, and how honors like the Order of Nova Scotia and the Portia White...
ep50 Chevy Beaulieu is a bush baby
Chevy Beaulieu talks through the long road from playing family gigs in the Northwest Territories to signing with 604 Records and releasing his self-titled album. He also shares how his roots, his mixed background, and a wide range of influences shaped a sound that sits between traditional country, outlaw country, rock, and a little bit of everything else.This is a story about learning the craft first, then learning the business later. Chevy also gets honest about the frustration of being ignored by labels, the value of staying authentic, and why he believes “overnight success” is a myth.
ep49 Jon Bryant is more at home
Glen Erickson talks with Jon Bryant about the winding path from art school album covers to a career in indie folk, acting, and voice work. The conversation traces the moments that shaped Jon’s creative identity, including early luck, personal loss, the Nexium experience, pandemic disruption, and how fatherhood and returning home to Nova Scotia informed his upcoming record Harbor. They also dig into what it means to market art honestly in the age of social media, how vulnerability can deepen connection without becoming a gimmick, and why Jon sees his voice as the center of everything he makes.
...ep48 Lisa Jacobs finds little joys
Freelance musician and multi-instrumentalist Lisa Jacobs joins me to discuss her diverse career as an award-winning bass player and a dedicated music therapist. We dive into the grit of touring, studio recording sessions, and how she balances the energy of massive festival stages with the quiet intimacy of clinical music therapy. Lisa shares her unique mindset on finding longevity in the music industry, overcoming performance anxiety, and the real definition of confidence.
ep48 Lisa Jacobs finds little joys
released June 18, 2026
1:53:26
https://www.instagram.com/lisajuliejacobs/
Key...
ep47 Skye Wallace is adaptable
What does it take to sustain a 12-year independent music career? Canadian rock-and-folk artist Skye Wallace joins the conversation to dissect the realities of the modern touring landscape, independent album funding, and shifting toward DIY touring sustainability. From her classical vocal roots to heavy guitar distortion , Skye shares how raw adaptability has defined her trajectory. Plus, she opens up about challenging music industry ageism and sexism while proudly navigating new parenthood on the road.
ep47 Skye Wallace is adaptable
released June 11, 2026
1:49:55
Key Takeaways
Navigating Parasocial Dy...s3 Post-Fame Plus presents Hot Takes with Matthew
What does music genre even mean anymore? Former guest Matthew Willox returns to challenge traditional Billboard classifications like rock, country, and classical. This Hot Take sends us on a deep dive into how digital streaming platforms and Spotify algorithms have completely shifted the landscape, swapping rigid labels for curated aesthetic vibe playlists, workout tracks, and hyper-niche sub-genres. Discover how, we think, music listeners are taking back control from corporate power structures, ultimately democratizing how we define, discover, and consume new music in the modern streaming era.
s3 Post-Fame Plus presents Hot Takes with Matthew
r<...
ep46 Jacob Brodovsky is serious
Jacob Brodovsky uncovers his journey as a singer-songwriter from Winnipeg’s rich music community while discussing his highly anticipated new album, Tell the Kids We Tried. We dive into the grit of indie songwriting, the creative liberation of tracking live to tape, and the power of local music networks. From navigating imposter syndrome to balancing family life and finding his authentic voice, this conversation is an honest look at building a sustainable creative life in today's music industry.
ep46 Jacob Brodovsky is serious
released May 28, 2026
1:31:47
Key Highlights:
...ep45 Ken Yates has range
Canadian singer-songwriter Ken Yates returns to discuss fatherhood, touring logistics, and his signature sonic evolution. We dive into how he scaled back to a live trio format , his collaborative work with producers Jim Bryson and Daniel Ledwell, and how a late bloomer to indie-folk songwriting defined his unique guitar tunings and raw vocal identity. From DIY house concerts to upcoming Massey Hall performances with Kathleen Edwards , this conversation explores what it really means to cultivate a dedicated, word-of-mouth audience in the modern music industry.
ep45 Ken...
ep44 Jake Vaadeland is a continuation
Discover the inspiring story of Jake Vaadeland, a young Saskatchewan musician blending traditional prairie country roots with rockabilly and bluegrass influences. Jake shares his journey from small-town beginnings to international stages, winning a Juno Award and self-promoting rural tours, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity, showmanship, and staying true to oneself.
ep44 Jake Vaadeland is a continuation
released May 14, 2026
1:30:51
Key Topics:
Jake Vaadeland's background and family roots in Scandinavian and rural Saskatchewan cultureThe influence of early musical experiences, bluegrass, and pioneer music on his styleHis unconventional...ep43 Becca McFarlane is a swan
Design is the silent partner of every great record, yet the path to becoming a creative director in the music industry is rarely linear. From navigating the Montreal art scene to designing for icons like Tegan and Sara and Arcade Fire, Becca McFarlane shares her journey of "Type A" creativity. We dive into the merch economics of stadium tours, why authenticity beats the algorithm, and how to build a visual brand that resonates long after the music stops.
ep42 Becca McFarlane is a swan
released April 30, 2026
1:44:45
ep42 Shub has timing
Explore the intersection of turntablism, indigenous culture, and electronic music with Juno-winning artist Shub. From his early days as a DMC Canada champion to pioneering the powwow step genre with A Tribe Called Red, Shub discusses the technical evolution of his craft and the importance of representation. We dive into his prolific production process, the realities of streaming royalties, and his latest collaborative project, Heritage, which continues to redefine the boundaries of modern Canadian music.
ep42 Shub has...
ep41 Danielle McTaggart is Larkk
Danielle McTaggart has navigated a fascinating evolution from the early days of Dear Rouge and winning the Peak Performance Project to her evocative new solo venture, Larkk. We explore her roots in Red Deer , the transition from Christian music culture to the indie-rock scene , and the vulnerability of processing infertility and grief through songwriting. Danielle shares veteran insights on maintaining a full-time music career , the importance of creative control , and collaborating with poets to find a raw, mature voice.
ep41 Danielle McTaggart is Larkk
released April 23, 2026
1:16:24
Key Topics<...
ep40 Jody Glenham is a lifer
Jody Glenham shares her 20-year evolution in the Canadian music industry, from the legendary Sidetrack Cafe door in Edmonton, to the forefront of the Vancouver indie scene. We dive into the making of her new EP, Still Here, her experience producing the "perfect song" in "Overtime," and the unique "artist grants" she utilized while working at John Fluevog. It’s a deep dive into DIY production, building community across the Prairies, and the gritty reality of being a "lifer" musician.
ep40 Jody Glenham is a lifer
released April 16, 2026
1:28:51
Ke...
ep39 Mariel Buckley keeps winning
We catch up with Juno Award winner Mariel Buckley following her big win for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year. We dive into the grit behind the glamour - from the "grateful tired" of life on tour to the evolution of her indie-alt-country sound. Mariel opens up about the pivotal choice to skip Nashville session players for her own band, navigating industry gatekeeping, and the raw vulnerability of songwriting through major life pivots. It’s a masterclass in artistic integrity.
ep39 Mariel Buckley keeps winning
released April 9, 2026
1:31:57
...
ep38 Mia Kelly practices joy
Canadian indie folk artist Mia Kelly joins the podcast during a rare break at her home base in Gatineau. We dive into her life on the road, her recent Australian tour, and her collaboration with Kim Churchill on the new single "Time’s Easy to Blame." From winning Canadian Folk Music Awards to the meditative thrill of river surfing on the Ottawa River, Mia shares how she’s navigating the industry, building her team, and infusing her singer-songwriter journey with pure joy.
Hot Topics:
Ho...s3 Post-Fame Plus presents Hot Takes with Josh
Season 3 special brought to you by Post-Fame Plus with Alexi and Glen. Featuring a new segment, HOT TAKES with JOSH.
ep37 Aysanabee is a gift
Aysanabee shares his journey from Sandy Lake First Nation to winning two Junos, exploring his musical influences, the impact of awards on his career, and the importance of authenticity and storytelling in his artistry. This insightful interview tells Aysanabee’s journey as an Indigenous artist, the influence of his grandfather, and the evolving landscape of music and identity. Discover how storytelling, resilience, and authenticity shape his career and creative process.
Aysanabee, Junos, Canadian music, storytelling, musical influences, artist development, Indigenous music, resilience, cultural identity, touring, songwriting, heritage
key topics
Aysanabee's background and ea...
ep36 Sammy Volkov is a classic tale
Sammy Volkov has taken an uncommon path to his sophomore solo record, Songs from the Goodbye Garden. We dive into the indie music hustle, as the common thread of "audacity" required to move ahead as an artist. Sammy shares his journey from an Edmonton "record nerd" to an LA door-to-door salesman, and how he was always building his music career while supposedly working on other things. We get Sammy to explain all those retro-pop influences like Roy Orbison and Dusty Springfield shaping his songwriting, as well as explore the importance of queer...
ep35 Striker just wanna have fun
Dan Cleary and Tim Brown are two members of Edmonton-based heavy metal powerhouse Striker. As they approach two decades in the music industry, the guys discuss their DIY recording roots, the reality of independent record labels, and conquering the European metal festival circuit. From winning a Juno Award mid-pandemic to their 2024 stylistic evolution on Ultra Power, learn how these Canadian metal veterans maintain longevity by prioritizing brand authenticity and pure, unadulterated fun.
ep35 Striker just wanna have fun
released March 5, 2026
1:40:43
https://www.striker-metal.com/
http://instagram.com/strikermetal <...
ep34 Shawn Hall The Harpoonist
Award-winning blues artist Shawn Hall (The Harpoonist) joins Glen for a candid conversation about reinvention nearly two decades into his career. From gritty breakout moments to recording a vulnerable new solo album in Paris under his own name, Shawn reflects on identity, creative risk, and stripping his music down to its emotional core. It’s a deep dive into growth, longevity, and what happens when you step outside your comfort zone to rediscover your voice.
ep34 Shawn Hall The Harpoonist
released February 26, 2026
2:02:53
Key Topics Discussed
Working with producer Rena...ep33 Julianna Riolino feels a lot
Season 3 kicks off with Canadian artist Julianna Riolino, whose genre-defying music blends fifties soul, rock and roll, and Canadiana influences. Glen caught her electrifying performance at Edmonton Folk Fest 2024 and knew she'd be the perfect guest to launch the new season. Julianna reflects on how her 2025 album “Echo in the Dust” keeps revealing itself as she grows, and why she identifies first as a songwriter. She discusses leaving Daniel Romano and The Outfit to protect her own output, choosing independent releases and distribution for control and integrity, and resisting label deals that compromise ownership. She also recounts the Subaru comm...
s2 Post-Fame Plus: Wrapped 2025
s2 Post-Fame-Plus Wrapped
Dec 18, 2025
00:47:43
In this special episode of Post-Fame Plus, Alexi and Glen reflect on their Spotify Wrapped for 2025, discussing their top genres, songs, albums, and artists of the year. They share their surprises and insights, ponder the influence of their listening habits, and discuss new features in Spotify's end-of-year feature. They also highlight their favorite songs released in 2025 and touch on plans for the next season of their podcast.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:21 Post Fame Plus Overview
00:59 Spotify Wrapped Discussion
03:06 Top Ge...
ep32 Eamon Mcgrath was always punk
ep32 Eamon Mcgrath was always punk
released Dec 11, 2025
2:05:54
Eamon McGrath is a Canadian musician, songwriter, and author from Edmonton, Alberta, currently based in Windsor, Ontario. He has been active in the music industry since 2006, known for his prolific output and genre-blending style that fuses punk rock, indie rock, folk, and country. This episode features a candid conversation with Eamon discussing his 20-year career in music. McGrath delves into his DIY ethos, the punk rock mentality beyond music, and reevaluating success. He shares about enduring excessive tours, coping with substance abuse, and his journey...
ep31 Terra Lightfoot is charm(ed)(ing)
ep31 Terra Lightfoot is charm(ed)(ing)
released December 4, 2025
1:36:50
In this engaging conversation, Terra Lightfoot shares her journey from Halliburton, Ontario, to becoming a recognized musician in Canada. She discusses her early influences, the transition from classical piano to guitar, and the importance of community and connections in the music industry. Terra delivers meaning insights such as the significance of kindness in building career relationships. She also shares insights on her first record, the leap to full-time music, and the collaborative nature of her career. Glen Erickson and Terra Lightfoot explore the nuances of...
ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy
ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy
released November 27, 2025
1:26:37
In this engaging conversation, Glen Erickson speaks with Begonia, a Winnipeg-born artist, about her journey in the music industry. They discuss her early inspirations, the impact of the Winnipeg music scene, and her transition from band member to solo artist. Begonia shares her experiences with touring, the challenges of the music industry, and the importance of authenticity in her performances. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of age and gender in the industry, as well as the significance of awards like the Juno in shaping...
ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism
ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism
released November 20, 2025
1:46:39
Tyson Boyd, a prominent figure in Edmonton’s music scene, discusses his multifaceted career as a venue owner, concert promoter, and talent buyer. Starting with Alberta’s local bands and transitioning to working at prominent venues like the Starlight Room, Tyson highlights the challenges and passion driving the live music industry. He reflects on the evolution of audience habits, the impact of economic changes, and the importance of sustaining local music communities. Tyson's journey underscores the significance of small venues and developing artists amidst a shifting indu...
ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie
ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie
released Nov 13, 2025
1:40:26
Greg Gillespie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greg_gillespie/
In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Glen Erickson sits down with longtime friend and collaborator Greg Gillespie—videographer, musician, and dad. The episode explores the unique bond between Glen and Greg, tracing their shared history from church music circles in Edmonton to creative adventures in Vancouver, Iceland, and beyond.
Together, they reflect on:
The journey from making music to supporting the music community in new waysThe importance of staying co...ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention
ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention
released October 30, 2025
01:53:24
Glen Erickson sits down to talk with musician Ryan Langlois and his son, emerging artist Jonah David, unraveling their intertwined musical paths. Ryan reflects on his rapid fame with the Boom Chucka Boys, the struggle between seeking art and notoriety, and the challenges of balancing career and family. Contrastingly, Jonah shares his journey from early country influences to discovering his own R&B sound in Vancouver, along with his multi-faceted efforts in creating art, music, and launching a clothing line. Both father and son ex...
ep26 The Wheat Pool reunite
ep26 The Wheat Pool reunites
released October 23, 2025
2:27:20
The Wheat Pool
“Delicate tales of life masked beneath amped-up Canadiana; a songwriter’s band, stirring the irreverent spirit of Neil Young in their sturdy indie-rock stride; evolved alt-country by four guys busting their ass.”
In this special episode of "Almost Famous Enough," host Glen Erickson reunites with his former bandmates from The Wheat Pool — Robb Angus, Mike Angus, and Stephane Dagenais—for an in-depth, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation about their journey as a band, their music, and the enduring b...
ep25 Shaela Miller likes to garden
ep25 Shaela Miller likes to garden
released October 16, 2025
1:30:43
Shaela Miller discusses the evolution of her music career, her commitment to staying true to herself, and the importance of authenticity in her artistry. She shares stories of her early musical influences, the impact of her community support, and the challenge of balancing personal life with career demands. Highlighting her resistance to the pressures of social media and industry expectations, Miller emphasizes creating music from the heart. She also talks about her work with youth in songwriting camps and her plans for new music. The co...
ep24 Joelle May is on the scene
ep24 Joelle May is on the Scene
released October 9, 2025
1:44:35
Summary:
Joelle May delves into her unique career transition from the oil and gas industry to becoming a prominent figure in the music business. She recounts her journey, starting with her work as a publicist and the creation of her company, Mod May Productions. Throughout her career, Joelle has worn many hats, including roles in management, grant writing, and festival organization. Now, as the GM of New Motor Records, Joelle explains the label's rebranding and future plans. She shares insights o...
ep23 Kelsi Mayne deserves this
ep23 Kelsi Mayne deserves this
released Oct 2, 2025
1:20:59
hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Glen Erickson interviews Canadian country artist Kelsi Mayne. Kelsi shares her journey from Windsor, Ontario, growing up in a creative family, and balancing a career in nursing with her passion for music. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to pursue music full-time, the challenges of breaking into the country music scene, and the resilience required to keep going through personal and professional...
ep22 Fake Shark new monster
ep22 Fake Shark new monster
released September 25, 2025
1:15:44
Hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Guest: Kevvy (Fake Shark)
Episode Overview:
In this episode of Almost Famous Enough, Glen Erickson explores Kevvy's intriguing path in the music industry, from his early band Fake Shark Real Zombie to the evolution of Fake Shark. Kevvy highlights his songwriting experience with Carly Rae Jepsen, producing comedy specials, and balancing multiple creative roles. Discussing the challenges of reinventing a band's identity, Kevvy shares insights into music production, the im...
ep21 Mike Edel can still do this
ep21 Mike Edel can still do this
released September 18, 2025
01:41:59
Guest: Mike Edel singer/songwriter
Hosts: Glen Erickson + Alexi Erickson
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Glen Erickson sits down with Canadian indie folk-pop artist Mike Edel to discuss his journey as a musician, the realities of pursuing a creative career, and overcoming life-changing adversity. Mike shares candid stories about his upbringing, musical influences, the evolution of his career, and the impact of suffering a stroke in his 30s while on tour.
...
ep20 Peter Dreams in July
ep20 Peter Dreams in July
released Sept 11, 2025
01:15:09
Guest: Peter Dreams (Peter Dreimanis), musician, actor, and member of July Talk
Hosts: Glen Erickson + Alexi Erickson
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Glen Erickson sits down with Peter Dreimanis - aka Peter Dreams - of July Talk to explore his journey from Edmonton’s music scene to national acclaim. Peter opens up about the challenges of authenticity, the impact of community, and the transition from self-destructive patterns to embracing joy and fatherhood. The conversation delves into...
ep19 Jen Fritz goes public
ep19 Jen Fritz goes public
released Sept 4, 2025
1:33:35
Host Glen Erickson and publicist Jen Fritz discuss the evolution of music publicity, the challenges and opportunities of digital literacy for artists, and the shifting landscape of music journalism. They explore building authentic industry relationships, gender dynamics in publicity, and the impact of social media and politics on artist promotion. Jen shares insights from her career, including working with indie and major label artists, and reflects on the importance of authenticity and adaptability in today’s music industry.
Guest website: https://www.fritzmedia.ca/
...
ep18 Hotel Mira is very noble
ep18 Hotel Mira is very noble
released August 28, 2025
1:45:13
Join host Glen Erickson in a candid conversation with Mike Noble, bassist for the Canadian alt rock band Hotel Mira. They delve into the band's unique use of the word 'lobotomy' in their lyrics, the personal dynamics of the band's members, and Mike's experience touring and working within the music industry. Gain insights into their creative process, how they've sustained success, and the importance of genuine relationships within the band. Discover why Hotel Mira stands out in the alt rock scene and get a sneak...
ep17 Boy Golden is not the boy
ep17 Boy Golden is not the boy
released August 21, 2025
1:13:59
Boy Golden is the stage name of Liam Duncan, a Juno-nominated alternative-country singer-songwriter based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Host Glen Erickson interviews Liam about the importance of creative discipline and serendipity in songwriting. Liam reveals his routines, including daily journaling and a weekly song club, and how they help maintain his creative flow and spiritual well-being. They also discuss the unpredictable nature of hit songs, with Boy Golden's unexpected success of 'KD and Lunch Meat'. Tune in to explore the intricate ba...
s1.4 Post-Fame Plus
s1.4 Post-Fame Plus
July 11, 2025
00:20:22
Hosts Glen Erickson and Alexi Erickson deliver the final summer installment of Post-Fame Plus, and discuss their regrets of missing specific performances at the Edmonton Folk Fest, highlighting Kevin Morby and his song 'This is a Photograph.' They also delve into their favorite albums, with Alexi praising Joe P's 'Garden State Vampire' and its diverse yet cohesive songs. The episode wraps up with Glen sharing news about partnering with Lemmon Entertainment for Music Day in Canada and urging listeners to engage with their content to help gr...
