

Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean Smith
Sappenin' Podcast
Presented by Emo’s Not Dead. Sean Smith, frontman of recently-reunited Welsh gold-selling emo rock band The Blackout, and Morgan Richards, international music journalist, team up to bring you a podcast full of exclusive insight, chaos and laughter, with star studded guests from every corner of entertainment. Take a look behind the scenes with your favourite musicians, wrestlers, comedians, drag queens, actors, industry names and more! Find out Sappenin’ this week. New episodes available every Friday Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

10 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 12min
EP. 364 - Jeff Stinco (Simple Plan)
Jeff Stinco, the classically trained guitarist of Simple Plan, dives into the band's fascinating journey. He shares tales from touring Europe with The Offspring and Avril Lavigne, and the band's evolution post-pandemic. Stinco discusses overcoming industry hurdles, the surprising TikTok revival of 'I'm Just A Kid', and recording under the legendary Bob Rock. He reflects on the challenges of balancing pop and punk identities and hints at exciting new music on the horizon. Plus, enjoy amusing anecdotes about stage antics and UFOs!

12 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 10min
EP. 363 - Live with Lastelle (Adam Rigozzi & Freddie Whatmore)
Join Adam Rigozzi and Freddie Whatmore of Lastelle as they share their latest EP releases and chat about the band's unique visual direction. They dive into hilarious touring mishaps, including a trampoline accident and gatecrashing a friend's honeymoon for WrestleMania. The duo discusses their community-focused initiatives and the strategy behind splitting their album into two EPs. Expect quirky anecdotes about unexpected flugelhorn solos, favorite coffee flavors, and the emotional weight of their lyrics.

10 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 22min
EP. 362 - Kayleigh Goldsworthy | Violin, Solo Music and My Chemical Romance: 'Long Live The Black Parade' Tour
In this lively chat, Kayleigh Goldsworthy, a singer-songwriter and talented violinist for My Chemical Romance’s Black Parade, shares her unique journey from classical music to punk. She reveals how she landed her role in the iconic band, the camaraderie with Frank Iero, and insights on the evolving production of their shows. Kayleigh also discusses her solo music aspirations, the challenges of independent artistry, and her upcoming projects, including donating her song 'Easy' to support the ACLU. Plus, ghost stories and UFO beliefs add a quirky twist!

10 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 12min
EP. 361 - Cody Ko
Cody Ko, an internet sensation and comedian, takes a break from marathon training to chat about his journey from software engineer to comedy superstar. He shares fascinating insights on his marathon experiences, his love for pop-punk music, and his hilarious takes on trash reality shows. Cody discusses the creative constraints of Vine, his stand-up hesitations, and the evolution of his DJing skills. Plus, he lightheartedly reflects on UFO skepticism and his whimsical rider request for cream of mushroom soup!

10 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 53min
EP. 360 - Jesse Leach (Killswitch Engage)
Jesse Leach, the dynamic frontman of Killswitch Engage, dives into the band's 25th anniversary celebrations and the journey of their new album, 'Consequence.' He shares his heartfelt gratitude for being able to tour after vocal surgery, revealing how it enhanced his singing technique. Jesse discusses his playful stage presence, memorable opening for Iron Maiden, and the importance of preserving vocal health on the road. He also touches on intriguing UFO experiences and his passion for writing wrestling themes, making this conversation a blend of music and the mysterious.

14 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 17min
EP. 359 - James Veck-Gilodi (Deaf Havana)
James Veck-Gilodi, the talented frontman of Deaf Havana, shares his journey through sobriety and personal transformations as the band prepares for their new album. He discusses the challenges behind scrapping a completed record for something better and highlights the dynamic of continuing as a duo with his brother. With raw honesty, he reflects on his struggles with alcohol, therapy, and the importance of being present during performances. Plus, hear about his unexpected connection to Busted and hilarious memories from unusual gigs!

8 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 22min
EP. 358 - Raiders vs The Blackout with James 'Bob' Davies
James 'Bob' Davies, the guitarist and songwriter for Raiders, shares his experiences balancing music between Raiders and his former band, The Blackout. He reveals the reasoning behind Raiders' DIY approach and their decision to release their new EP on Bandcamp. Bob discusses the challenges of modern music promotion and the importance of authenticity in live performances. He also expresses excitement for the future, hinting at possible upcoming shows for The Blackout and highlights the camaraderie within the local music scene.

10 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 9min
EP. 357 - Ken Vasoli (The Starting Line)
Ken Vasoli, the energetic vocalist and melodic bassist of The Starting Line, joins the conversation as the band celebrates the release of their first album in 18 years, 'Eternal Youth.' He shares behind-the-scenes stories about their independent label, Lineage Records, and the creative freedom it allows. Ken opens up about painful tour injuries, his unorthodox songwriting habits, and quirky merch ideas, like selling used bass strings. He also humorously recalls surreal experiences with UFOs and being referenced by Taylor Swift. It's a lively and heartfelt chat!

11 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 19min
EP. 356 - Liam Cromby (We Are The Ocean)
Liam Cromby, former frontman of We Are The Ocean and now a solo artist, shares his journey through music and mental health. He reflects on the surprise success of his acoustic tour, discusses a viral TikTok moment that rekindled connections with fans, and reveals plans for a unique reunion with his old band. Cromby also delves into creative well-being, his songwriting education, and the personal stories behind his new music. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, he invites listeners to reflect on growth and resilience in the music industry.

14 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 7min
EP. 355 - Alive with Jenna McDougall (Hevenshe / Tonight Alive)
Jenna McDougall, frontwoman of Tonight Alive and solo artist known as Heavenshe, opens up about her artistic rebirth after a hiatus. She dives into the creative process behind her new music, exploring her journey from overwhelmed teen star to independent artist, and how therapy and journaling helped reclaim her identity. She also touches on exciting collaborations, including a potential tour with Tay Jardine, and shares captivating UFO stories. Amidst her musical evolution, Jenna emphasizes the power of authenticity and connection in the industry.


