Almost Famous Enough

Glen Erickson

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. s2 Post-Fame Plus: Wrapped 2025

    12/18/2025

    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
  2. ep32 Eamon Mcgrath was always punk

    12/11/2025

    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
  3. ep31 Terra Lightfoot is charm(ed)(ing)

    12/04/2025

    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
  4. ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy

    11/27/2025

    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
  5. ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism

    11/20/2025

    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
  6. ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie

    11/13/2025

    ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie

    ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie released Nov 13, 2025 1:40:26 Greg Gillespie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greg_gillespie/ In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Glen Erickson sits down with longtime friend and collaborator Greg Gillespie—videographer, musician, and dad. The episode explores the unique bond between Glen and Greg, tracing their shared history from church music circles in Edmonton to creative adventures in Vancouver, Iceland, and beyond. Together, they reflect on: The journey from making music to supporting the music community in new waysThe importance of staying connected to creativity, even when it’s not a full-time careerNavigating FOMO, ambition, and the evolving meaning of “success” in music and artThe value of being an “ambassador of culture” and the unsung heroes who keep local scenes aliveHow spiritual backgrounds and the search for transcendence shape their relationship with musicMemorable stories from their time making records, touring, and filming documentaries—including their trip to Iceland for “Iceland Calling”The power of live music, community, and empathy in a changing worldThe episode is a candid, unscripted conversation between friends who have seen each other through decades of creative pursuits, personal growth, and the ever-changing landscape of music and art. Whether you’re a musician, a fan, or someone who loves a good story about friendship and following your passion, this episode offers insight, humor, and inspiration. Mentioned in this episode: Trainsleeper (Greg’s music project)F&M, The Wheat Pool, and other Edmonton/Vancouver music connectionsJonathan Anderson / Jonathan Inc (producer)“Iceland Calling” documentary projectReflections on Spotify Wrapped, playlist culture, and the joy of discovering new musicConnect with us: 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 02:39 Catching Up with Greg 03:37 Revisiting Old Memories 07:08 Musical Journeys and Church Influence 12:32 Creating and Collaborating in Music 38:47 Transition to Video Production 42:22 Balancing Passion and Practicality 45:59 The Importance of Community in Music 49:35 Dealing with FOMO and Creative Desires 54:04 Reflecting on the Music Industry 55:00 Balancing Passion and Practicality 55:50 The Importance of Music Communities 56:20 Personal Integrity in Music 56:48 The Role of New Sounds 57:11 The Impact of Familiarity 57:33 Sharing Music and Experiences 58:44 The Iceland Documentary Project 01:02:18 Ambassadors of Culture 01:03:10 The Struggle of Creatives 01:08:39 Spirituality and Music 01:25:37 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 40m
  7. ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention

    10/30/2025

    ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention

    ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention  released October 30, 2025  01:53:24 Glen Erickson sits down to talk with musician Ryan Langlois and his son, emerging artist Jonah David, unraveling their intertwined musical paths. Ryan reflects on his rapid fame with the Boom Chucka Boys, the struggle between seeking art and notoriety, and the challenges of balancing career and family. Contrastingly, Jonah shares his journey from early country influences to discovering his own R&B sound in Vancouver, along with his multi-faceted efforts in creating art, music, and launching a clothing line. Both father and son explore themes of artistic intention, the complexities of fame, and the art of authentic expression. Ryan Langlois website: https://www.ryandlangloismusic.com/ Ryan Langlois Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.langlois.music/ Jonah David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjonahdavid/ 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 03:15 Catching up 04:39 Ryan's Early Musical Influences 19:35 Jonah's Musical Upbringing 21:38 Jonah's Path to Music 35:23 The Boom Chucka Boys Era 42:20 Balancing Fame and Family 45:59 Childhood Memories and Parental Influence 46:59 Realizing the Impact of a Musician Parent 47:57 Balancing Family and Career 50:09 Pursuing Music Independently 53:05 Finding a New Musical Direction 53:39 Moving to Vancouver and Musical Growth 57:45 Collaborations and Musical Projects 01:14:24 Exploring Multiple Art Forms 01:28:23 Finding Identity Beyond Music 01:28:49 The Concept of Capital V Value 01:29:36 Challenges of Performing and Finding Peace 01:30:53 Struggles with Validation and Imposter Syndrome 01:34:48 Post-Fame with Alexi

    1h 53m
  8. ep26 The Wheat Pool reunite

    10/23/2025

    ep26 The Wheat Pool reunite

    ep26 The Wheat Pool reunites released October 23, 2025 2:27:20 The Wheat Pool “Delicate tales of life masked beneath amped-up Canadiana; a songwriter’s band, stirring the irreverent spirit of Neil Young in their sturdy indie-rock stride; evolved alt-country by four guys busting their ass.” In this special episode of "Almost Famous Enough," host Glen Erickson reunites with his former bandmates from The Wheat Pool — Robb Angus, Mike Angus, and Stephane Dagenais—for an in-depth, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation about their journey as a band, their music, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Key Topics & Highlights: The Wheat Pool Story: The band reflects on their origins, the meaning behind their name, and the unique arc of their career from 2005 to 2012, including two albums and an EP.Life After the Band: Each member shares what they’ve been up to since the band’s last show, including career changes, family life, and new creative pursuits.Band Dynamics: The group reminisces about touring, recording, and the rare chemistry that kept them close—highlighting both the fun and the challenges of life on the road.Songwriting & Albums: Deep dives into the making of their records "Township" and "Hauntario," the evolution of their songwriting, and the role of producers in shaping their sound.Favorite Songs: The band and fans discuss their favorite Wheat Pool tracks, the stories behind them, and what makes certain songs so meaningful.Fan Questions: The episode features questions from listeners and family, including a touching moment when Glen’s daughter Alexi asks the band to play at her future wedding.Band Breakup & Legacy: Honest conversation about why the band ended, the realities of the music industry, and the emotional impact of moving on.Reunion Shows & The Future: Reflections on their reunion gigs, the possibility of new music, and what it would take for another show or album.Tour Stories: Memorable (and sometimes horrendous) sleeping arrangements, favorite venues, and the camaraderie that made it all worthwhile.Guest website: https://www.thewheatpool.com Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewheatpool/ 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 02:59 Reunion and Reflections 07:07 Life After the Band 11:05 Touring Tales and Challenges 15:37 Band Dynamics and Personal Growth 35:42 Reflecting on Early Band Days 36:29 Memorable Gigs and Band Conflicts 39:06 Songwriting and First Album 43:56 Recording Challenges and Evolution 48:09 Personal Stories B

    2h 27m

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.