Almost Famous Enough

Glen Erickson
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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.

  1. ep35 Striker just wanna have fun

    5 DAYS AGO

    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 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU67S5jpv-oENDrjRZEcmuA Takeaways Striker is approaching their 20th anniversary as a band.Touring life is often glamorized, but the reality includes a lot of waiting and driving.The perception of metal genres has evolved, with more blending and acceptance of different styles.The visual and stylistic changes in Striker's image were a conscious decision to embrace fun and creativity.They emphasize the importance of having fun in music, especially in the face of industry challenges.Striker, Canadian metal, longevity, independent labels, music industry, Juno Award, touring, band dynamics, Edmonton music scene, metal genres, band dynamics, authenticity, new music, fun in music, advice for bands hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:26 Meet Striker and Origins 05:40 20 Years of Metal Longevity 11:09 DIY Demos and First Deal 16:05 Edmonton Scene and Europe Breakthrough 27:52 Fame Myths Touring Reality 40:30 Junos Get Canceled 41:43 Does A Juno Matter 44:21 Pandemic Tour Limbo 45:59 Band Nearly Breaks 50:48 Ultra Power New Vibe 01:11:24 What’s Next And Drummer 01:18:14 Fill-In Drummers Policy 01:19:11 Advice For New Bands 01:20:01 Fun Over Money In AI Era 01:21:38 DIY Skills And Self Investment 01:24:41 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 41m
  2. ep34 Shawn Hall The Harpoonist

    26 FEB

    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 Renaud Letang in Paris and embracing creative vulnerabilityTaking creative risks later in a career, not just at the beginningApproaching harmonica as rhythmic punctuation rather than solo virtuoso playingRecording the iconic sweaty Regina show with broken gear - blowing harmonica straight through the vocal micInfluences: Brownie McGee, Paul Reddick, Parliament/Funkadelic approach to harmonica"I wanted to be an outsider again." Guest website: https://theharpoonist.bandcamp.com/track/good-people Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_harpoonist/ Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theharpoonistshawn hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters  00:00 Introduction 03:11 Island Life Talk 12:35 Paris Reset Record 27:10 Vulnerability In Studio 41:55 Origins Of The Harpoonist 46:34 Trailblazing Blues Identity 49:00 Banter Versus Gatekeeping 53:16 BreakOut West Buzz 01:06:31 Duo Mechanics Trance 01:11:06 Harmonica Style And Gear 01:27:00 Solo Records And Longevity 01:29:58 New Songs Not Nostalgia 01:33:16 A Regina Memory 01:35:32 Winter Wrap Up 01:37:29 Post-Fame with Alexi

    2h 3m
  3. ep33 Julianna Riolino feels a lot

    19 FEB

    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 commercial placement “Against the Grain” and shares touring realities, including her devotion to a Vox AC30 guitar tone.  ep33 Julianna Riolino feels a lot released February 19, 2026 1:35:18 Key Topics Discussed Musical Journey & IdentityCreative ProcessGenre & InfluencesBusiness of MusicThe "Against the Grain" StoryTouring & PerformanceCreative Outlets Beyond Music"I feel first and foremost I'm a songwriter. I have been trudging through life with my guitar and the melodies in my head." "I feel a lot and deeply and I'm very hard on myself." "You have to really sit down and ask yourself, why are you doing this? I'm not doing this to be a millionaire. I'm not doing this to be famous." Guest website: https://juliannariolino.com/ Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliannariolinoofficial/ Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@juliannariolinomusic   hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:38 Meet the Guest: New Album, Pandemic Growth & the Subaru Sync 04:14 How the Record Keeps Changing: Songs, Subconscious & Meaning Over Time 07:23 Songwriter First: Early Shows, Identity & Making Art Beyond Music 12:14 Stained Glass, Side Quests & Avoiding Burnout 20:27 Leaving Daniel Romano & The Outfit: Boundaries, Family Vibes & Going Solo 30:39 Genre, DIY Producing & Surviving the Modern Music Business (Labels, Masters, Content) 55:14 Keeping the Joy: Staying Authentic Without Getting Jaded 56:51 TikTok, AI & the Attention Economy: Marketing vs. Human Intent 01:00:34 Song Spotlight: How “Against the Grain” Landed a Subaru Commercial 01:06:07 Saying Yes (and Getting Paid): Indie Cred, Sync Work & Creative Survival 01:11:59 Tour Prep Anxiety: Problem-Solving, DIY Logistics & Life on the Road 01:13:55 Amp Nerd-Out: Vox AC30 Devotion, Guitar Tone & the Tromsø Epiphany 01:22:11 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 35m
  4. s2 Post-Fame Plus: Wrapped 2025

    18/12/2025

    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 Genres Breakdown 09:19 Listening Age Analysis 11:42 Top Songs Countdown 23:23 Discussing Favorite Songs 24:08 Top Albums of the Year 24:36 Concert Memories and Music Preferences 26:31 Top Artists Breakdown 29:29 Spotify Wrapped Insights 32:43 AI-Generated Music Stories 39:32 Favorite Songs of 2025 hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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.

    48 min
  5. ep32 Eamon Mcgrath was always punk

    11/12/2025

    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 to sobriety. Highlighting the Canadian music landscape, he emphasizes creating genuine connections with audiences over industry-driven metrics and forecasts a renaissance in independent music post-pandemic. Keywords Canadian music, punk rock, touring, music industry, authenticity, community, joy, curation, music career, DIY, independent music, live music venues, personal fulfillment Takeaways The Canadian music scene has a unique and challenging landscape. Community and connection are vital in the music industry. The modern music industry is unpredictable and fragmented. The future of music creation is shifting towards more authentic experiences. Eamon's journey highlights the balance between art and personal well-being. Guest website: https://eamonmcgrath.bandcamp.com/music Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eamon_mcgrath/ Guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@eamonmcgrath4286 hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:41 Eamon's Early Music Journey 04:05 The Canadian Music Scene 09:03 Defining Punk Rock 19:49 The Evolution of the Music Industry 28:56 Finding Peace in Music 46:42 The Complexity of Artistic Journeys 49:40 Stages of Artistic Development 52:17 The Evolution of Music and Personal Growth 55:38 The Impact of DIY Culture 01:00:32 Navigating the Music Industry 01:07:30 Struggles with Substance Abuse 01:15:15 The Changing Landscape of Live Music 01:30:37 Reflections on Career and Future Directions 01:33:32 Choosing Optimism in the Music Industry 01:35:00 The Reality of a Musician's Life 01:36:46 Maintaining Passion and Avoiding Burnout 01:38:04 Adapting to a Changing Music Landscape 01:40:30 Highlighting Inspiring Artists 01:43:36 Upcoming Shows and Touring Insights 01:46:20 Reflecting on Edmonton's Music Scene 01:53:33 Post-Fame with Alexi

    2h 6m
  6. ep31 Terra Lightfoot is charm(ed)(ing)

    04/12/2025

    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 gender perspectives in guitar playing, the fluidity of musical expression, and the ongoing journey of redefining success in the music industry. Terra shares her personal epiphanies about happiness and the importance of taking breaks, as well as her creative process behind her new album 'Home Front'. The discussion also touches on the reactions to her latest work and the challenges of live performances, emphasizing the need for balance and authenticity in the music world. Key Takeaways The importance of community and connections in the music industry.Success should be redefined to prioritize happiness.The leap to full-time musician involved significant risk and support from peers.Sound bites "We're all on an even playing field."  "I was losing big parts of myself."  "Taking a break is not bad." Guest website: https://www.terralightfoot.com/ Guest instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terralightfoot Guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBUk6guA6llVgZujqA6Xz0w hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:17 Conversation with Terra Lightfoot 04:33 Canadian Geography and Life in Halliburton 10:40 Musical Beginnings and Influences 20:23 Early Career and First Record 26:23 Breakthrough Moments and Touring 33:00 Challenges and Overcoming Stereotypes 36:48 Reflections on Guitar Playing 39:04 Incredible Guitarists and Gender in Music 39:29 Creating an Even Playing Field 40:15 Fluidity of Gender and Guitar Playing 42:33 Personal Success and Validation 43:33 Early Musical Influences 46:24 Defining Success and Personal Growth 49:05 Balancing Work and Well-being 55:40 The Longest Road Show 01:01:11 Creating the Album 'Home Front' 01:06:57 Covering Treble Charger's 'Red' 01:16:49 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 37m
  7. ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy

    27/11/2025

    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 an artist's career. In this engaging conversation, Begonia discusses her artistic journey, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort in her music creation process. She reflects on her growth as an artist, describing her evolution as an amplification of her true self rather than a transformation. The discussion delves into the complexities of defining success in the music industry, the challenges of balancing personal life with touring, and the emotional toll of performance. Begonia expresses her desire to connect with audiences and her aspirations for the future, highlighting the importance of authenticity in her artistic expression. Keywords Begonia, Glen Erickson, Winnipeg, music industry, solo artist, touring, Brothers Landreth, Juno, live performance, music, artist journey, success, performance, touring, emotional connection, amplification, discomfort, creativity Guest website: https://www.hellobegonia.com/ Guest Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/hellobegonia Guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKMptlDdQgKglySBjYJ7MGg hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:02 Meet Begonia: Beginnings and Publicity 04:23 Winnipeg Roots and Mennonite Connections 06:08 The Journey of Begonia's Music Career 06:55 Touring and Performing Live 16:04 Early Musical Influences and Aspirations 20:04 The Impact of Canadian Idol 22:39 Transitioning from Band to Solo Artist 26:10 Navigating the Music Industry 40:45 Defining Success and Future Goals 48:15 Navigating the Artist's Journey 48:42 The Emotional Toll of Creating Music 49:16 The Challenges of Live Performances 50:24 The Rollercoaster of Touring 51:26 Balancing Life and Career 51:48 The Slow and Steady Rise 52:25 Dealing with Post-Release Emotions 57:37 Maintaining Vocal Health 58:53 The Importance of Indie Ownership 01:03:23 The Desire for Artistic Freedom 01:05:07 Concluding Thoughts and Future Aspirations 01:10:08 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 27m
  8. ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism

    20/11/2025

    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 industry landscape. Guest website: https://starliteroom.ca/ Guest website: https://concertworks.ca/en/ hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480 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. chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:57 Conversation with Tyson Boyd 19:02 Challenges in the Music Industry 26:50 Tyson's Musical Beginnings 38:36 Early Influences and Formative Years 39:32 Transition to the Oil Field and Festival Adventures 40:06 Discovering the Local Music Scene 40:27 First Steps in Promoting Shows 41:46 Career-Ending Injury and New Beginnings 42:43 Pursuing Arts and Cultural Management 43:39 Balancing Day Jobs and Night Gigs 44:35 Starting a Concert Company 47:01 Challenges and Evolution in the Music Industry 49:31 The Role of Venues and Community Building 52:46 The Financial Realities of Promoting Shows 57:58 Impact of Societal Changes on the Music Scene 01:04:18 Optimism for the Future of Live Music 01:21:57 The Role of Music in Community Building 01:22:52 Changing Demographics at Folk Festivals 01:23:22 Encouraging Community Engagement 01:23:51 Reflecting on the Conversation 01:23:55 Tyson Boyd's Career Journey 01:25:49 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 47m
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Glen Erickson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Almost Famous Enough
  • Show Website
    Almost Famous Enough