Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean Smith

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.

Anna Shields and Blair Crichton of the Scottish nu-rock band Dead Pony join for a lively chat. They share secrets behind their debut album, hype for their upcoming tour with The Blackout, and peculiar experiences recording in a haunted cottage. The duo dives into the impact of iconic movies on their songwriting and explores the blending of genres in their music. With humorous anecdotes about festival adventures and local tap water critiques, their passion for engaging with fans shines through. Get ready for a fun ride with this dynamic duo!

Vinnie Caruana, singer and songwriter known for his iconic work in The Movielife and I Am The Avalanche, joins the conversation. He reflects on inspiring a generation in the pop-punk and emo scenes. Vinnie shares his thoughts on balancing multiple projects and the nostalgia of The Movielife's break-up. He humorously recalls wild tour adventures, his love for Liverpool FC, and even writing a children's book while high. With insights into producing younger artists and breaking straight-edge, Vinnie's tales blend music, friendship, and candid honesty.

Gareth Davies, former bassist of Funeral for a Friend and now a fashion consultant for Gucci, shares his journey from music to the fashion world. He reflectively discusses his emotional return to the stage after 15 years, revealing tales from memorable tours and personal challenges. Gareth candidly talks about fatherhood, mainstream burnout, and the joy of reconnecting with the band. He also shares insights on client confidentiality in fashion and the legacy of iconic albums like 'Casually Dressed and Deep in Conversation.' A nostalgic and heartfelt conversation!