Curious Goldfish Podcast

Jason English

Launching in 2024, the Curious Goldfish Brand is inspired by two episodes from the First Season of the Apple TV+ Series Ted Lasso. The “Goldfish” reference is about the importance of not dwelling on mistakes in life. In an early episode, Ted Lasso, the series’ namesake asks one of his players – after they were badly beaten in a play during training – what the happiest animal on earth is. The answer: A Goldfish, because it has a 10-second memory. Lasso encourages the player to forget the mistake and to not let it hinder his mindset. In other words, to “Be a Goldfish.” The “Curious” reference is born from another Season 1 episode where Ted finds himself in a dart match at a local Pub with a ruthless Football Club Owner. Lasso references a quote from Walt Whitman to “Be Curious, Not Judgmental.” So “Being a Goldfish” is a great start, but curiosity is an undervalued trait in today’s world. We don’t ask enough questions; we don’t inquire enough about each other and about life. So I want people to be “Curious Goldfish.” The initial premise of the podcast will center around my curiosity about music. I can’t sing. I don’t play a musical instrument, but I am inspired by artists who are vulnerable enough to put their thoughts down and then share them with the entire world. I’m curious about the songwriting process; I’m curious about a musician’s journey; I’m curious about the business of music; I’m curious about who or what inspires a sad song, a love song - and everything in between. Though the initial premise is music, we will likely spend time discussing and highlighting all-things Ted Lasso. In its three seasons, it inspired the host in so many ways (work, personal, relationships etc). The musical focus of the Curious Goldfish Podcast will center around up-and-coming artists primarily in rock, roots, folk, Country and Americana genres. Not every aspiring musician will earn $100 million from Spotify streaming like Taylor Swift. Our goal is to shine a light on those artists who have as few as 100 monthly listeners to those with more than 100,000. Their stories deserve to be heard because your music can inspire, and it’s time you had a chance to share them.

  1. Financial Planner by Day, Songwriter by Calling: A Chat with Stephanie Sammons

    1D AGO

    Financial Planner by Day, Songwriter by Calling: A Chat with Stephanie Sammons

    Stephanie Sammons: Financial Planner by Day, Songwriter by Calling | Curious Goldfish with Jason EnglishHost Jason English welcomes Stephanie Sammons to Curious Goldfish in Nashville for a conversation about her dual life as a Dallas-based financial planner and an emerging songwriter. Stephanie explains her holistic approach to wealth management—combining financial planning, tax planning, and investment management—while emphasizing the importance of behavior, long-term perspective, and living fully rather than following rigid rules. She shares how she decided to “go pro” as a songwriter without leaving her career, motivated by a desire to avoid regret and stop waiting for permission to be herself, including encouragement from songwriter Mary Gauthier to claim the title of songwriter. Stephanie discusses her Southern Baptist upbringing in Missouri, how coming out created a decade-long family disconnect, and how reconciliation eventually developed into mutual respect, including her parents’ relationship with her wife and their grandchildren. The episode explores themes of faith, nuance, fear, optimism, and how personal experiences become songwriting material, including her song “Faithless” and the origins of “Innocence Lost,” inspired by a childhood memory of shooting a bird with a BB gun and later shaped in a Mary Gauthier workshop. Stephanie notes she released her 2024 album “Time and Evolution” and is currently recording a second full-length album with Mary Bragg, expected in early 2026. The episode closes with Stephanie performing “Innocence Lost.”00:00 Music, Faith, and Finding a Hopeful Perspective 01:01 Welcome to Curious Goldfish + Meet Stephanie Sammons 03:15 Nashville Intro & Why Her Songs Hit So Hard 04:07 Holistic Financial Planning: Retirement, Spending, and Mindset 06:53 Market Chaos, Long-Term Optimism, and Tuning Out the Noise 08:05 Day Job vs. Art: Going Pro Without Quitting10:57 ‘Build Your Own Adventure’ + Claiming the Title Songwriter 12:06 No More Excuses: Regret, Calling, and Making the Leap 14:10 Faith Deconstruction in Americana Music (and Why It’s Taboo)16:52 Southern Baptist Roots, Sexuality, and a Complicated Belief 18:10 The ‘Billboard Sign’ Lyric: Family Rejection and Its Aftermath 18:59 Rebuilding the Relationship: From Pedestal to Reconciliation 19:40 The Turning Point: Letting Go and Parents Coming Back Around 21:33 Agreeing to Disagree: Family, Marriage, Kids, and Mutual Respect 22:30 Will Sexuality Always Be the Headline? Identity Beyond Coming Out 23:31 Deep-Cut Songs & ‘Innocence Lost’: Writing Empathy in the South 26:57 How a Workshop Sparked ‘Innocence Lost’ (Mary Gauthier Story) 27:46 Why Songwriting Is the Joy (and Co-Writing as the Next Step) 28:53 ‘Faithless’ and Living with Nuance: Doubt, Privilege, and Worldview 31:06 Going Pro, New Doors, and Album #2 in the Works (2026)32:02 What She’s Most Curious About: Media, Fear, and the Swinging Pendulum 34:39 Closing Thanks + Live Performance: ‘Innocence Lost’

    39 min
  2. Authenticity in the Age of AI: A Chat with Morgan Myles

    5D AGO

    Authenticity in the Age of AI: A Chat with Morgan Myles

    Morgan Myles on ‘Laced’: Turning a Broken Engagement into an Album, Surviving Nashville, and Staying Authentic in the AI EraIn this Curious Goldfish episode hosted by Jason English, singer-songwriter Morgan Myles discusses her upcoming album Laced (releasing February 13 on Galentine’s Day) and the personal upheaval that shaped it, including calling off her wedding, buying and then selling a house with her ex-fiancé, and touring through the chaos. She explains how the album title shifted from Language of Flowers to Laced, describing lace as delicate yet resilient, and shares how she used her 20-foot wedding veil—taken to Joshua Tree two weeks after the breakup—as the album cover. Morgan compares Laced to her 2020 album Therapy, outlines the two-year process of writing 80 songs in five months and narrowing them to 12 for vinyl with producer Ross Hogarth, and talks about performing while dealing with stress, compartmentalizing, faith, and negativity on social media. The conversation explores how fans can support artists in streaming, emphasizing that actively searching for an artist and listening to full songs signals algorithms, and addresses the flood of AI-generated music and its impact on songwriters, demo singers, session players, and industry economics. Morgan shares her view of authenticity, discusses songwriting themes like gaslighting and the power of words, and explains protecting vulnerability by staying close to trusted people. She talks about writing with Gary Nichols, what she learns from his perspective, and highlights tracks including “Love Is Lonesome” and “American Sky,” which she wrote to evoke bipartisan hope while addressing phone toxicity, food chemicals, veteran support, financial education, school tragedies, and media hate. Morgan reflects on her positive experience on The Voice as valuable exposure, her goals of continuing to write, tour, and build her fanbase, and ends by sharing what she’s curious about now—especially history and learning how to meditate.00:00 From ‘Language of Flowers’ to ‘Laced’: the veil that became the album cover 01:09 Welcome to Curious Goldfish + quick listener survey on streaming & AI 02:24 Meet Morgan Myles: survival, breakup inspiration, and authenticity in the AI era 03:38 Ice storm in Nashville: weather chaos and keeping the lights on 05:28 Laced release week + comparing the new album to Therapy 10:32 80 songs in 5 months: choosing the final tracklist with Ross Hogarth 11:55 The symbolism of lace: engagement, heartbreak, and women’s stories 13:33 Performing through pain: staying joyful onstage and handling trolls 16:59 How fans can help in the streaming era: algorithms, full listens, and search intent 21:06 AI in music: inevitable shift, lost royalties, and protecting the soul of songs 27:29 Breaking Down the Album: Passion, Despair & Song Themes 28:56 Why Words Matter: Songwriting, Gaslighting & Relationship Red Flags 30:29 Vulnerability vs Self-Protection (and Handling Online Judgment) 33:03 Pet Peeves & “Icks”: Attention, Alone Time, and Basic Respect34:09 Writing with Gary Nichols: Process, Perspective & Musical Authenticity37:24 “Love Is Lonesome”: When Love Hurts and How to Nurture It 39:54 “American Sky”: Hope, Division, and a Bipartisan Message 45:56 Where She’s Headed Next: Career Goals, The Voice, and Staying Grateful 49:55 Final Question: What She’s Most Curious About (History, Meditation & Life) 52:37 Wrap-Up: Album Release, Thanks, and Where to Stream

    53 min
  3. He's Living His Glory Days: A Chat with Pete Muller

    FEB 8

    He's Living His Glory Days: A Chat with Pete Muller

    Pete Muller on Curiosity, Music, and Living in the Present | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English dives into an engaging conversation with Pete Muller, a multifaceted talent who excels in quantitative finance, crossword puzzle creation, philanthropy, and music. Pete shares insights on living in the present, the dangers of nostalgia, and his journey from finance to becoming a singer-songwriter. They discuss Pete's new album 'One Last Dance', his love for yoga and surfing, and the importance of staying curious and excited about the future. Pete also reveals his efforts in saving the iconic Power Station studio and supporting independent music venues across America. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about balancing professional success with personal passions. 00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Present Excitement 00:57 Welcome to Curious Goldfish0 1:46 Meet Pete Muller: A Multifaceted Talent 05:10 Pete's Journey in Quantitative Finance 09:06 Crossword Puzzles and Quantitative Finance 13:34 The Art of Poker and Emotional Control 15:25 Living in the Present: Yoga, Surfing, and Music 21:21 Redefining Success and Personal Reflections 21:43 The Antisocial Camp Experience 22:56 Finding Joy in Small Moments 23:37 The Journey Towards Spirituality 24:47 Balancing Resources and Authenticity in Music 27:13 The Challenge of Connecting with the Audience 28:30 Creating Music and Personal Growth 28:57 Future Plans and Goals as an Artist 30:47 Recording at Peter Gabriel's Studio 33:46 Supporting the Arts and Philanthropy 34:48 Reviving the Iconic Power Station Studio 38:46 Supporting Independent Music Venues 40:41 The Magic of Live Music 41:15 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

    42 min
  4. A Chat with Lydia Luce: "Mammoth" Year for Classically-Trained Musician

    JAN 28

    A Chat with Lydia Luce: "Mammoth" Year for Classically-Trained Musician

    Exploring Musical Journeys and New Beginnings with Lydia Luce | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish Podcast, host Jason English sits down with the talented indie folk musician Lydia Luce. Lydia shares her journey from studying classical music in a conservatory to embracing a more relaxed and enjoyable indie folk career. She discusses her new album 'Mammoth,' detailing the inspiration behind each track. Lydia also opens up about her pregnancy and the balance between her music career and personal life. Don't miss this insightful conversation about music, creativity, and life's serendipitous moments. 00:00 Introduction to Lydia Luce's Musical Journey 01:09 Welcome to Curious Goldfish Podcast 01:52 Americana Fest and New Beginnings 03:05 Lydia's Personal and Professional Milestones 03:26 Balancing Music and Motherhood 04:40 The Joy of Indie Folk Music 07:04 Songwriting Inspirations and Processes 15:28 Exploring the New Album 'Mammoth' 18:12 Discussing the Hike and Its Challenges 18:58 Chronic Pain and Its Impact on Life 20:35 Pregnancy and Pain Management 22:56 Reflecting on Jesus Camp 27:00 Making Amends and Personal Growth 30:06 Curiosity About the Future 32:20 Conclusion and Performance 🎙️ Welcome to Curious Goldfish!Curious Goldfish is a podcast community where music and curiosity come together through meaningful conversations with the music makers of our world. It’s a music podcast about more than music, inspired by Ted Lasso. Hosted by Jason English, each episode dives into the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind some of the most captivating voices in Americana, rock, folk, country, and bluegrass.Whether it’s Grammy winners, rising stars, or undiscovered gems, we explore the creative journey, personal transformation, and the impact of place and purpose on art.📌 Subscribe & Join the Conversation!

    35 min
  5. A Chat with Jason Hollis: Music Maker Now Making Other Dreams' Come True

    JAN 20

    A Chat with Jason Hollis: Music Maker Now Making Other Dreams' Come True

    Chasing Dreams in the Music Industry with Jason Hollis | Curious Goldfish PodcastIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish Podcast, host Jason English sits down with veteran music industry professional Jason Hollis to discuss the ins and outs of pursuing a career in music. With a rich history spanning 30 years, Jason Hollis offers invaluable insights on avoiding common mistakes, the importance of having a clear plan, and why the future belongs to artists who own their content. He also shares his journey from Nashville to Los Angeles and back, his efforts to preserve the iconic Douglas Corner, and his vision for the newly launched eighth room. Additionally, they touch upon his upcoming book 'So You Wanna Be a Rockstar,' which aims to empower the next generation of musicians. Don't miss this in-depth conversation filled with practical advice and inspiring stories.00:00 The Biggest Mistake in Parenting Timelines01:08 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast01:59 Meet Jason Hollis: A Music Industry Veteran03:17 Jason's Journey: From Nashville to LA and Back07:22 Advice for Aspiring Musicians11:01 The Importance of Having a Plan11:44 Jason's New Book: So You Wanna Be a Rockstar14:23 The Thousand Fan Theory16:41 Building a Music Career Independently20:03 Jason's Early Career in LA23:06 The Viper Room and Music Legends25:46 Saving Douglas Corner in Nashville27:04 The Legacy of Douglas Corner29:17 The Birth of The Eighth Room29:45 Designing The Eighth Room31:35 Curating the Perfect Vibe40:13 The Music Industry's Evolution44:41 Investing in the Future of Music48:07 Curiosity and the Future of Music51:53 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    52 min
  6. Gray's Anatomy: A Chat With Tanner Lee Gray About Solo Career

    JAN 12

    Gray's Anatomy: A Chat With Tanner Lee Gray About Solo Career

    Finding Your Voice: Tanner Lee Gray's Journey Through Music on Curious GoldfishIn this episode of the 'Curious Goldfish' podcast, hosted by Jason English, we delve into the life and musical journey of Tanner Lee Gray. Recognizable as a member of the rising band Certainly So, Tanner shares candid insights on balancing band life with his solo career, the influence of multiple 'homes' on his sound, and the sacrifices involved in being a full-time musician. Tanner opens up about his beginnings with various college bands, the grind of playing cover gigs along the Gulf Coast, and the eventual realization of pursuing his solo work seriously. We explore the inspirations behind his music, his experiences touring with Certainly So, and the unique dynamics of his personal relationships. Tanner also performs two of his songs, 'Time and Money' and 'I Feel Free,' offering listeners a taste of his solo artistry. Join us for an engaging conversation about perseverance, creativity, and the ever-evolving journey of a musician. 00:00 Reflecting on Past Musical Endeavors 00:42 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast 01:25 Meeting Tanner Lee Gray 02:06 Tanner's Musical Journey and Influences 03:20 Life in Nashville and Balancing Music 03:45 Pursuing a Solo Career 06:44 The Influence of Home on Music 09:16 Balancing Side Jobs and Music 12:35 College Days and Scholarship Decisions1 4:08 Reflecting on College Decisions 14:33 Football Season Hopes and Realities 16:05 Challenges of Being a Touring Musician 19:56 Exploring the Gulf Coast 22:41 Curiosity and Small Towns 24:40 Musical Performances

    31 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Launching in 2024, the Curious Goldfish Brand is inspired by two episodes from the First Season of the Apple TV+ Series Ted Lasso. The “Goldfish” reference is about the importance of not dwelling on mistakes in life. In an early episode, Ted Lasso, the series’ namesake asks one of his players – after they were badly beaten in a play during training – what the happiest animal on earth is. The answer: A Goldfish, because it has a 10-second memory. Lasso encourages the player to forget the mistake and to not let it hinder his mindset. In other words, to “Be a Goldfish.” The “Curious” reference is born from another Season 1 episode where Ted finds himself in a dart match at a local Pub with a ruthless Football Club Owner. Lasso references a quote from Walt Whitman to “Be Curious, Not Judgmental.” So “Being a Goldfish” is a great start, but curiosity is an undervalued trait in today’s world. We don’t ask enough questions; we don’t inquire enough about each other and about life. So I want people to be “Curious Goldfish.” The initial premise of the podcast will center around my curiosity about music. I can’t sing. I don’t play a musical instrument, but I am inspired by artists who are vulnerable enough to put their thoughts down and then share them with the entire world. I’m curious about the songwriting process; I’m curious about a musician’s journey; I’m curious about the business of music; I’m curious about who or what inspires a sad song, a love song - and everything in between. Though the initial premise is music, we will likely spend time discussing and highlighting all-things Ted Lasso. In its three seasons, it inspired the host in so many ways (work, personal, relationships etc). The musical focus of the Curious Goldfish Podcast will center around up-and-coming artists primarily in rock, roots, folk, Country and Americana genres. Not every aspiring musician will earn $100 million from Spotify streaming like Taylor Swift. Our goal is to shine a light on those artists who have as few as 100 monthly listeners to those with more than 100,000. Their stories deserve to be heard because your music can inspire, and it’s time you had a chance to share them.