SHE SHREDS with Rasan | Backstage Metal Music Podcast

Rasan Loray - Ohio Chica who lives and breathes hard rock, with a passion for metal culture and the 80s–90s–2000s era

Metalheads craving real, musician-first conversations—this is SHE SHREDS with Rasan. Loud, raw interviews told in the artists’ own words. Hosted by a Latina business leader by day and a mom who lives and breathes hard rock, with a passion for metal culture and the 80s–90s–2000s era, the show dives into perseverance, craft, and the culture behind the music. Broadcasting straight from Mansfield—right between Columbus and Cleveland—I sit down with the bands and musicians who keep the riffs raw and the energy real. New episodes drop on demand.

  1. 11h ago

    Chris Garner on “Next to Me,” genre-bending metal, and building an artist career from the ground up

    Chris Garner joins Rasan to talk about his release “Next to Me,” the personal story behind his music, his shift from gospel rap into metal and punk-influenced sounds, and what it takes to grow as an independent artist. He also shares lessons on music promotion, release strategy, and staying consistent. In this episode The unexpected start of Chris’s music journey: A late friend encouraged Chris to freestyle. Though he struggled at first, that moment helped spark a years-long commitment to improving.From gospel rap to metal and punk: After spending years in gospel rap, Chris moved toward the styles he loved, blending pop punk, metalcore, hip-hop rhythms, and nu metal.The story behind “Next to Me”: Chris discusses how personal experiences, including his divorce, shaped the song’s themes of love and the difficulty of letting go.The realities of independent music: Chris shares his perspective on protecting your budget, making informed decisions, and treating music like a business.Release and promotion strategy: He recommends building an audience before releasing a full album and talks about planning singles, pitching music, and using social media and ads.Why consistency matters: Chris’s message to artists is to keep going, keep learning, and keep showing up.What comes next: He previews a new song called “I’ll Be Fine,” which he hopes will mark a more positive new chapter.Timestamps (00:00) Chris introduces “Next to Me” and his musical journey (00:34) The freestyling moment that changed everything (01:29) A friend’s encouragement and the decision to keep going (03:26) Working through COVID and finding radio promotion opportunities (04:24) Hearing his song chart next to Drake on local radio (04:54) Lessons from releasing his first album (06:01) Why Chris recommends singles over early full-album releases (06:30) Release planning, AI, and avoiding overpriced advice (07:47) From gospel rap to writing through difficult experiences (08:17) The emotional meaning behind “Next to Me” (10:45) Why Chris moved toward metal and punk influences (11:13) Discovering Bullet for My Valentine and learning to scream (15:53) Chris’s plans for “I’ll Be Fine” (17:21) What he hopes listeners take away from his music (19:35) His goal: punk-rock energy with powerful screams (20:05) His advice on small-budget advertising (21:20) Building an audience on Facebook (24:21) Why parents should support kids’ interest in music (26:05) Guitar, trumpet, and the instrument Chris hopes to learn (27:26) Where listeners can find Chris and his music (28:10) Chris’s karaoke pick: “Hearts Burst Into Fire” (29:10) Horror movies, zombies, and music video ideas (31:39) Why regular practice matters (32:03) Closing thoughts and future touring hopes Chris Garner's Website: https://chrisg.ltd/ Socials: https://www.facebook.com/chrisg.ltd Rasan's Website: https://rasanloraycontent.riverside.com/ She Shreds with Rasan Newsletter: https://rasanloraycontent.riverside.com/newsletter Socials: https://linktr.ee/sheshredswithrasan #ohiochica #metalhead #metal #musicinterview #localmusician #muscleshoals #alabama #nexttome #numetal

  2. Jun 3

    The Energy of X Factor 1 - Ohio's Metal Band

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this engaging conversation, Rasan interviews Markus Lachendro from X Factor 1, a band based in Columbus, Ohio. They discuss the band's recent shows, the energy of live performances, and Markus's journey of joining the band after overcoming a serious car accident. The conversation delves into Markus's musical influences, the dynamics within the band, and his aspirations for the future. Throughout the discussion, themes of resilience, passion for music, and the vibrant Ohio music scene are highlighted. In this conversation, Markus Lachendro shares his journey through the music scene, detailing his early experiences with band formation, the rise of First Degree Murder, and the challenges faced after losing their lead singer. He reflects on the impact of past opportunities, the importance of breaking stereotypes in rock and metal, and the growth of local music festivals. The discussion emphasizes the need to nurture the next generation of musicians and the role of parents in supporting their artistic pursuits. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to X Factor One and Recent Shows 10:00 The Journey of Joining X Factor One 19:56 Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth 30:02 Musical Influences and Future Aspirations 32:49 The Early Days of Music and Band Formation 35:54 First Degree Murder: The Rise to Fame 40:57 Challenges and Setbacks in the Music Journey 44:37 Reflections on Past Opportunities and Current Mindset 49:41 Breaking Stereotypes in Rock and Metal 52:12 The Growth of Local Music Festivals 01:10:27 Nurturing the Next Generation of Musicians YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SHESHREDSwithRasan Rasan's Calendly Scheduling Assistant: https://calendly.com/rasan867/podcast-recording-session Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rasan867?igsh=NHdpc2Z6dWI3NjVp&utm_source=qr Tik Tok: www.tiktok.com/@she_shreds_with_rasan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1VKBNzDfja/?mibextid=wwXIfr

  3. May 25

    Before I Wake: Ohio Metal Band's Journey and Mental Health Advocacy

    Send us Fan Mail In this engaging interview, band members from Before I Wake discuss their origins, musical influences, upcoming show at the Mothership in Mansfield, Ohio, and the importance of music for mental health. They share insights into their creative process, the local music scene, and how technology has transformed music production. metal band, Ohio music scene, mental health, music production, live shows, band formation, musical influences, local venues, band merch, upcoming concerts Key topics: Band formation and local scene in Loudonville, Ohio The role of music in mental health and community support Evolution of music production with modern technology Guest names: Ryan and Brian from Before I Wake Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Before I Wake 02:58 The Metal Scene in Loudonville 05:35 Formation of Before I Wake 08:22 Musical Influences and Styles 10:59 Songwriting and Production 14:02 Upcoming Shows and Community Engagement 17:02 The Evolution of Music Technology 20:41 Influences and Musical Beginnings 24:15 The Role of Music in Mental Health 27:52 Artistry and Authenticity in Merchandise 32:03 Connecting with Fans Through Music Resources: The Mothership Venue - https://mothershipvenue.com Recording Workshop Chillicothe - https://recordingworkshop.com Venom of Virtue (band) - https://facebook.com/venomofvirtue Guest links: Facebook - https://facebook.com/beforeiwake Instagram - https://instagram.com/beforeiwake YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SHESHREDSwithRasan Rasan's Calendly Scheduling Assistant: https://calendly.com/rasan867/podcast-recording-session Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rasan867?igsh=NHdpc2Z6dWI3NjVp&utm_source=qr Tik Tok: www.tiktok.com/@she_shreds_with_rasan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1VKBNzDfja/?mibextid=wwXIfr

  4. May 3

    From Cincinnati to the UK: The Rise of Thorns

    Send us Fan Mail In this engaging interview, Luke from the Cincinnati-based band Thorns shares their journey, creative process, and upcoming international tour. Discover how they formed, their influences, and insights into the music industry, all while exploring their innovative marketing and future plans. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Thorns and Their Journey 02:39 The Formation of Thorns and Band Dynamics 05:33 Musical Influences and Inspirations 08:13 Upcoming Releases and Creative Process 10:55 Tour Plans and Manager Insights 13:33 Experiences and Future Aspirations 20:42 Creative Collaboration in Content Creation 25:19 Anticipating Future Tours and Opportunities 27:25 Support from Family and Friends 27:59 The Essence of Music and Fan Engagement 34:49 Building a Home Studio and Future Aspirations 40:01 Balancing Education and Music Career 41:54 Celebrating Achievements in Music 42:40 The Passion for Music and Band Dynamics 44:13 The Journey of Growth and Opportunities 44:55 The Impact of AI on Music Creation 49:25 Encouraging Young Musicians 53:44 Memorable Experiences in Live Shows 55:33 The Importance of Social Media for Bands  resources Thorns Band Official Website - https://thornsofficial.com UK Tour Dates and Tickets - https://bandintown.com/Thorns Eddie Trunk - Trunk Nation - https://www.siriusxm.com/shows/trunk-nation Social Media Platforms (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube) - https://www.tiktok.com/@thornsofficial  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/thornsofficial TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@thornsofficial Official Website - https://thornsofficial.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SHESHREDSwithRasan Rasan's Calendly Scheduling Assistant: https://calendly.com/rasan867/podcast-recording-session Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rasan867?igsh=NHdpc2Z6dWI3NjVp&utm_source=qr Tik Tok: www.tiktok.com/@she_shreds_with_rasan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1VKBNzDfja/?mibextid=wwXIfr

About

Metalheads craving real, musician-first conversations—this is SHE SHREDS with Rasan. Loud, raw interviews told in the artists’ own words. Hosted by a Latina business leader by day and a mom who lives and breathes hard rock, with a passion for metal culture and the 80s–90s–2000s era, the show dives into perseverance, craft, and the culture behind the music. Broadcasting straight from Mansfield—right between Columbus and Cleveland—I sit down with the bands and musicians who keep the riffs raw and the energy real. New episodes drop on demand.