Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean Smith

Omar Abidi, the energetic drummer for Fightstar and a multi-talented figure in entertainment, joins the discussion. He dives into the band's recent momentous return to Wembley Arena after a long hiatus. Omar shares hilarious backstage stories, a cheeky request from Ed Sheeran, and memorable gig encounters, including getting hit by a raw fish! He reflects on the bond with fans, the chaos of early tours, and his acting ventures. The conversation is a captivating mix of nostalgia, music, and camaraderie, showcasing the transformative power of reunions.

Janine Shilstone and Hamish Reilly, vocalists and guitarist of the electrifying Scottish band VUKOVI, dive into their creative journey and upcoming album. They reveal their battles with self-doubt and the unique circumstances of their growth in the music scene. The duo shares hilarious anecdotes, including a tale about a 'walking fridge' that transformed their reputation. They also discuss the challenges of mental health, the pressures of the music industry, and the thrill of live performances, all while celebrating their love for Scotland and their innovative sound.

Sean Mackin, the talented violinist of Yellowcard, brings his infectious energy and insightful outlook on music and life. He shares his unique journey of representing the violin in pop-punk, reflecting on the band's reunion and the emotional connections made with fans. Mackin discusses the impact of his time away from music, his corporate job, and the evolution of the emo scene. With humorous stories about live shows and camaraderie among musicians, he emphasizes the joy of reconnecting and the spirit of community in the music industry.

Dive into the electrifying world of heavy metal as two iconic frontmen share their excitement for an upcoming co-headlining tour. They reminisce about their friendship spanning two decades and explore how their music has evolved. Thrilling anecdotes about grappling, pop culture references, and early industry struggles add a fun twist. Plus, hear about their creative processes, nostalgic moments, and an inside look at what makes their collaboration special. It's a celebration of music, camaraderie, and the journey that brought them here!

This week, Sean chats with emo stalwarts Buddy Nielsen (Senses Fail), Derek Sanders (Mayday Parade), Dan Marsala (Story of the Year), and Nathan Leone (Madina Lake), along with internet star Johnnie Guilbert and backstage legend Dave Pearson. They dive into the wild adventures aboard the Emo's Not Dead Cruise 2024, sharing hilarious stories about bellyflops, being recognized by Underoath, and the unique blend of music and leisure on the high seas. The camaraderie among fans and bands comes to life, showcasing the enduring heart of the emo scene.

In this lively discussion, Jenny Cotter and Dannika Webber, key players in the Download Festival booking team, unveil the secrets behind curating the iconic lineup. They share hilarious anecdotes about bizarre artist requests and the unpredictable chaos of festival planning. Listeners get an insider’s look at the challenges of booking major acts, the excitement surrounding surprise performances, and the push for greater diversity in the lineup. Don't miss their tales of late-night brainstorming sessions and the thrill of earning Andy Copping's trust!

John Vesely, the pop-culture songwriter and voice of Secondhand Serenade, shares captivating stories about his career and the journey of his hit song 'Fall For You,' which transformed into a viral meme. He reflects on life lessons learned while stepping back from the spotlight and the vibrant emo community that has emerged. Vesely also discusses fun moments on the Emo's Not Dead cruise, collaborations with new artists, and his latest music projects, including a side project with his wife. Dive into an entertaining conversation with heartfelt insights!

Catch the thrilling ride of a long-awaited reunion tour featuring emotional highs, unforgettable performances, and a few mishaps along the way. Hear hilarious tales of a band member performing post-surgery and heartwarming fan connections. Enjoy behind-the-scenes stories from a podcast recorded at sea, coupled with the excitement surrounding future shows and events. With a sprinkle of nostalgia and gratitude, the hosts celebrate music, community, and the sheer joy of live performances.

Daniel Franzese, beloved actor and comedian known for his role as Damian in Mean Girls, joins the show. He shares how stand-up comedy transformed his life and discusses the struggles of balancing sexuality with religion. Reflecting on Mean Girls' cultural impact, he talks about the importance of LGBTQ+ representation and the pressure of fame. Franzese also explores his journey from acting struggles to finding community in comedy, along with humorous anecdotes about family and his love for RuPaul Drag Race. It's a fun blend of heartfelt reflections and laughs!

Joining is Sonny Sandoval, the dynamic vocalist of P.O.D., a trailblazer in nu-metal and an advocate for charity. He shares captivating stories about his hometown of San Diego dedicating a day to honor his community work. Sonny reflects on the music scene's evolution, highlights collaborations with icons like Katy Perry, and discusses the significance of words in songwriting. He also dives into nostalgic moments from his career, revealing insights about their upcoming album and the unforgettable experiences that shaped their journey through music.