Hear 2 Zen Podcast

Hear2Zen Magazine

🎧 Tune In to Your Next Favorite Podcast! 🎶 Are you a music lover looking for fresh perspectives, untold stories, and hidden gems? Dive into The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, where we explore the songs, stories, and artists shaping the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping hits to underground sounds, we cover it all with expert insights, exclusive interviews, and a passion for all things music. 🎤 Discover. Listen. Groove. Join the conversation today and amplify your playlist! 🎵 #SubscribeNow 🎙️

  1. 5d ago

    Hear 2 Zen Episode 320: Ryan Neff (Miss May I) on Vulnerability, Album Releases And Tour Life

    On Episode 320 of The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Neff, bassist and vocalist for metalcore heavyweights Miss May I, for an honest dive into the emotional reality of dropping new music in 2026. Releasing their ninth record, Ryan opens up about the weight of handing over deeply personal songs to the public. He shares the struggle of letting go of ownership, navigating the pressure to connect with long-time fans, and why he finds himself searching for those few bad comments despite glowing feedback. Beyond the studio, Ryan lifts the veil on tour life, from the grueling balance of self-managing equipment on the road and late-night van driving to why he actually prefers van tours over luxury buses. The two also talk about the crucial role live shows play in proving new material and Ryan’s eager desire to bring Miss May I back to Australian shores. In this episode, we cover: The precarious emotional rollercoaster of album release weeks Navigating online feedback and learning to let go of creative ownership The stark contrast between bus touring and van tour camaraderie How Ryan manages downtime and keeps energy high before headline sets A special message to Miss May I’s Australian fanbase Don't Miss An Episode 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! 🎧 Stream the episode now on all major podcast platforms or read the full interview write-up at Hear2Zen.com! #Hear2Zen #MissMayI #RyanNeff #Metalcore #HeavyMetal #PodcastEpisode #NewMusic2026 #ConcertLife #AustralianMetalheads #MusicInterview #tourlife

    Hear 2 Zen Episode 320: Ryan Neff (Miss May I) on Vulnerability, Album Releases And Tour Life
  2. 5d ago

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 319: Josh O’Donnell (Banks Arcade)

    On Episode 319 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we catch up with Josh O’Donnell, frontman for Melbourne-based heavy fusion outfit Banks Arcade, to celebrate the release of their high-octane new album, Second Place Superstar (out September 25). In this deep-dive conversation, Josh opens up about the shifting dynamics within the band and how stepping away from writing in a total vacuum allowed guitarist James to inject fresh sonic ideas, samples, and song starters that elevated their sound to a whole new level. Topics covered in this episode: Underdog Mentality: The meaning behind the title Second Place Superstar, drawing from their New Zealand roots and going out swinging. Refining the Fusion: How the band successfully merged heavy riffs, electronic beats, and hip-hop influences into a cohesive record without overthinking it. Behind the Track "Yuck": The wild origin story of writing a freestyle top line in a beach house in Taiwan. Evolving Eras: Josh’s perspective on band lineup changes, maintaining tight dynamics with long-time friends, and fostering connection with new members. Unreleased Gems: Why tracks like "Wait" and "Last Time" are set to become massive fan favorites on stage. Future Plans & Merch: Touring strategies for the next 18 months, connecting with fans online, and the importance of buying merch to support artists. Sit back, stream the full interview, and get an inside look at one of the most exciting acts pushing the boundaries of heavy music today! Don’t Miss an Episode!🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! 🎧 Stream the episode now on all major podcast platforms or read the full interview write-up at Hear2Zen.com! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #BanksArcade #JoshODonnell #SecondPlaceSuperstar #HeavyMusic #AustralianMusic #NewMusicAlert #Metalcore #AlternativeRock #ConcertLife #SupportLiveMusic #PodcastInterview #NewAlbum

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 319: Josh O’Donnell (Banks Arcade)
  3. 6d ago

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 318: Billy Morrison on 'Hollow', Writing The Songs Of Life And A Life Beyond the Comment Section

    In Episode 318 of The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down for an unfiltered, hilarious, and deeply honest conversation with the ultimate multi-hyphenate artist, Billy Morrison. Known globally as Billy Idol's long-time rhythm guitarist, a celebrated fine artist, and a popular radio host, Billy opens up about his acclaimed solo record Hollow, shutting the door on 31 years of personal recovery through music, and why he serves the song over his own ego. In this episode, we chat about: Life on Tour: Handling 3 AM interviews, private planes, and why tour scheduling is never predictable. The Record (Hollow): Why Hollow serves as a cathartic, life-affirming body of work after decades of sobriety, and how he approaches major collaborations without using feature names as "name drops." Working with Ozzy Osbourne: The special trust behind writing and recording with the Prince of Darkness and what really makes a legendary performance happen, "The Hang." Videos & Creative Freedom: Directing on an iPhone on tour, tribute moments to Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive," and working with director/photographer Jane Stewart. Fine Art & Life Lessons: How Ozzy Osbourne literally forced him into painting, his Warhol-meets-Banksy aesthetic, and why street smarts beat book skills every single time. Social Media Reality: Turning off comment sections, handling internet rage-baiters, and navigating AI in modern art. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! 🎧 Stream the episode now on all major podcast platforms or read the full interview write-up at Hear2Zen.com! #Hear2ZenPodcast #BillyMorrisonArt #PopArt #StreetArt #RockStarArt #LifeLessons #PodcastLife #ListenNow #Hollow #BillyIdol #RockPodcast #OzzyOsbourne #NewMusic #RockInterview #MusicPhotography #HollowAlbum #RockAndRoll #SobrietyJourney #LifeAffirming #RockMusic #PodcastRecommendation #PrinceOfDarkness #RockLegends #Hear2Zen #BehindTheMusic #RockArt

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 318: Billy Morrison on 'Hollow', Writing The Songs Of Life And A Life Beyond the Comment Section
  4. Sep 27

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 317 : Zach Blair on Opera House Shows, Texas Metal, & Touring In 2026

    In Episode 317 of The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we catch up with Rise Against guitarist Zach Blair ahead of the band’s highly anticipated November/December Australian tour alongside Dropkick Murphys. Zach dives into the surreal feeling of playing on the steps of the Sydney Opera House and reflects on the monumental response to their previous tour opening for blink-182. The two talk through the realities of modern touring, the impact of the streaming era on musicians, and the rise of AI in the creative process. Zach also reflects on his Texas rock and metal lineage, shares his perspective on fan-favorite albums like The Sufferer & The Witness, and gives a sneak peek into what fans can expect from their upcoming headlining shows. We get into: Australia Return & The Opera House: Zach breaks down the dates for the upcoming Australian leg, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and a historic performance on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. The Reality of Modern Touring: A frank discussion on how streaming shifted the album's role from a primary revenue source to a "flyer for the tour," along with the hustle required to survive in today's music industry. Texas Musical Roots: Zach shares stories of growing up in Texas, his early metal roots with Rigor Mortis, and carrying the torch of Texas guitar heritage. Discography & Setlists: Reflections on joining Rise Against during The Sufferer & The Witness era, navigating fan reactions to evolving soundscapes, and the track that still delivers an extra hit of adrenaline live. What to Expect Live: Details on extended headlining setlists, night-to-night show variations, and sharing the stage with Dropkick Murphys. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #RiseAgainst #ZachBlair #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #LiveMusic #AussieTour #SydneyOperaHouse #PunkRock #MeltdownFestival #DropkickMurphys #ConcertLife #PodcastEpisode

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 317 : Zach Blair on Opera House Shows, Texas Metal, & Touring In 2026
  5. Sep 25

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Ep. 316 - Dave Fortman On Diplomacy, Down, Slipknot Drama And Evanescence Success

    In this episode, we sit down with legendary producer, mixer, and guitarist Dave Fortman (Ugly Kid Joe, Evanescence, Slipknot, Mudvayne, Godsmack, Down) for a raw, unfiltered look behind the mixing board and inside the studio. Dave opens up about: The Slipknot All Hope Is Gone Era: What really went down during the recording sessions, managing band dynamics, why he didn't record the "Studio B" material, and setting the record straight on Joey Jordison's brilliant songwriting contributions. Evanescence & Diamond Success: The early studio days recording Fallen, record label pressure to change "Bring Me To Life," and what it feels like to produce tracks that still fill stadiums today. Down's New Album & Louisiana Roots: Working with Phil Anselmo, Kirk Windstein, Pepper Keenan, and Jimmy Bower on the upcoming Down record, plus how Phil captures his iconic, aggressive vocal takes using just a Shure SM58. Producer Psychology: Why Mudvayne dubbed him "Diplomatic Dave" and how to balance massive egos in the studio. Social Media & Modern Music: His thoughts on content creation, viral reels, dealing with online trolls, and why he’s currently skipping Atmos spatial audio mixes. Connect with Dave Fortman: Instagram: @FortmanDave Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! Don’t Miss an Episode!#DiplomaticDave #Evanescence #Mudvayne #Godsmack #MusicProducer #RecordingStudio #Hear2Zen #Evanescence #BringMeToLife #AmyLee #FallenAlbum #DiamondRecord #DaveFortman #Slipknot #AllHopeIsGone #JoeyJordison #MusicPodcast #RockProducer #BehindTheMusic

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Ep. 316 - Dave Fortman On Diplomacy, Down, Slipknot Drama And Evanescence Success
  6. Sep 23

    Episode 315: The Soul of Songwriting, FOMO, and 80s Hair Metal with Brad Christmas From Copperline

    In Episode 315 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, host Mert Tyson sits down with Brad Christmas, frontman of the Australian Americana outfit Copperline, for an in-depth exploration of craftsmanship, creativity, and the human element in modern music. Brad opens up about collaborating with renowned producer Shane Nicholson for their third album, Sleepwalking, highlighting the deliberate choice to embrace organic production and the "right level of imperfection" over over-polished, modern digital trends. The pair dive into the importance of leaving space in music drawing parallels to classic records like Neil Young’s Harvest, and discuss how the pandemic birthed the album's title track during a cycle of creative routine. The conversation tackles pressing modern topics, including the impact of AI on human connection, the illusion of FOMO, and the artificial tightening of genre boundaries in 2026. Brad also shares the personal inspiration behind key tracks like "In Beautiful Things" and "Songs Still to be Sung," explaining how songwriting acts as a healthy compulsion to process life's challenges. Beyond the music, Brad gives listeners a backstage peak into Copperline's band dynamics—revealing surprising trivia about his bandmates, including a secret penchant for 80s hair metal and Toto. He also touches on his dual life as an author (Saltwater Boy) and his work running a creative agency alongside his wife to support charities. The episode wraps up with details on Copperline's upcoming Australian tour dates for 2026 and 2027. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #BradChristmas #Copperline #CopperlineBand #AustralianMusic #AmericanaMusic #NewMusic #PodcastEpisode #LiveMusic #Songwriting #AussieMusic #ShaneNicholson #Sleepwalking

    Episode 315: The Soul of Songwriting, FOMO, and 80s Hair Metal with Brad Christmas From Copperline
  7. Sep 14

    Episode 314: Broadbeach to Big Stages: Tyla Rodrigues on Nashville, Miranda Lambert & Debut Albums

    In Episode 314 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with Brisbane-based country music rising star Tyla Rodrigues. Tyla reflects on her rapid growth over the past four years, moving from late-night cover sets at the Broadbeach Tavern to performing on the main stages at the Groundwater Country Music Festival. We dive deep into her songwriting journey, exploring how Miranda Lambert’s The Marfa Tapes inspired her to start writing and how her dad introduced her to classic country legends like Vince Gill and Randy Travis. Tyla also breaks down her latest release, a cover of Dolly Parton’s "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind" recorded with US artist Braxton Keith as an Amazon Original, and shares her experiences navigating the Nashville music scene. Finally, she takes us through a fun game of "Firsts and Lasts" and gives us an inside look at the preparation for her upcoming debut album and Canadian tour. We talk: * Groundwater Festival: Playing big stages versus her early days running late-night cover sets. * Influences & Roots: How traditional country, Miranda Lambert, and family shaped her sound. * Nashville Experiences: Overcoming intimidation and finding inspiration in the home of country music. * Latest Release: The story behind her duet cover of Dolly Parton's "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind" with Braxton Keith. * Debut Album: Updates on her upcoming first full-length body of work and future touring plans. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #TylaRodrigues #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #GroundwaterCMF #CountryMusic #AusCountry #Nashville #DollyParton #NewMusic #PodcastEpisode #AussieMusic

    Episode 314: Broadbeach to Big Stages: Tyla Rodrigues on Nashville, Miranda Lambert & Debut Albums
  8. Sep 6

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 313 A Shot In The Dark Clears Noise With The Cosmofighter Phil Soussan

    In Episode 313, Hear 2 Zen sits down with legendary bassist, songwriter, and producer Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, Last In Line) to dive deep into his brand-new solo endeavor, Cosmofighter. Phil breaks down the origins of his upcoming EP trilogy, starting with the first installment dropping November 11th, and shares how writing 16 tracks in a whirlwind sparked interest from multiple record labels. The conversation explores the modern “background noise” that Cosmofighter aims to clear out, offering a cautionary perspective on technology, social media, and human connection. Phil also opens up about crafting the hypnotic lead single “Fading Out,” his stance on AI in creative arts, and working alongside long-time friend and guitar virtuoso Ritchie Kotzen. Rounding out this massive chat, Phil reflects on his legendary history. From getting the gig with Ozzy Osbourne, the last-minute inclusion of “Shot In The Dark” on The Ultimate Sin, and memories of the late Randy Castillo, to touring with William Shatner, the future of Last In Line, and the one personal track he’d lock away in a 200-year time capsule. Don’t Miss an Episode! Head to the website for all the info  Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview.  Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms.  Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #PhilSoussan #Cosmofighter #OzzyOsbourne #TheUltimateSin #ShotInTheDark #LastInLine #RitchieKotzen #RockInterview #NewMusic #RockPodcast #ConcertJournalism #LiveMusic #HeavyRock #BassGuitar #MusicInterview #PodcastEpisode

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 313 A Shot In The Dark Clears Noise With The Cosmofighter Phil Soussan

About

🎧 Tune In to Your Next Favorite Podcast! 🎶 Are you a music lover looking for fresh perspectives, untold stories, and hidden gems? Dive into The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, where we explore the songs, stories, and artists shaping the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping hits to underground sounds, we cover it all with expert insights, exclusive interviews, and a passion for all things music. 🎤 Discover. Listen. Groove. Join the conversation today and amplify your playlist! 🎵 #SubscribeNow 🎙️