My Pop Five

My Pop Five Productions
  • 5.0 (32)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • WEEKLY SERIES

Every artist has that one piece of pop culture that ultimately became their catalyst for wanting to create in the first place. Who are we kidding, it’s way more than one, but let’s narrow it down a bit. In our show, we bring on guests in the entertainment industry to break down five pieces of pop culture that had an influence on them or helped shape them to become the creators and innovators that they are today. Join us as we get nostalgic, geek out about the things we love, and ultimately learn just how influential pop culture is on who we are.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Misty Boyce: Mariah Carey "Someday", A Thing Called Love, Romeo and Juliet, OK Computer and Tori Amos "Silent All These Years"

    Send us a text Step into a world of melodies and memories as we explore the musical journey of Misty Boyce. In our latest episode, Misty, a multi-talented artist, shares her evolving relationship with music, childhood memories, and the creative influences that have shaped her remarkable artistry.  We dive into her New Mexican roots, where the enchanting cultures of Las Cruces sparked her passion for music from a young age. Armed with vivid anecdotes, Misty vividly recounts her obsession with Mariah Carey's "Someday," revealing how it fueled her dreams of becoming a singer. As she recalls the poignant transitions of her youth, we learn how iconic soundtracks—like that of "Romeo and Juliet" and the album "OK Computer" by Radiohead—served as soundscapes for her emotional awakening and creative exploration. Throughout this conversation, Misty candidly discusses her struggles with confidence onstage and her transformative journey toward embracing her voice. She also sheds light on her artistic process and the delicate balance of simplicity and complexity in her songwriting. Plus, listeners are treated to insights about community support and the undeniable bond that music creates among artists and fans.  In the heart of this discussion, we get a glimpse into her current work and hear a snippet of her heartwarming track "Goodbye July." As the episode comes to a close, we reflect on the powerful role of music in our lives—not just as a form of expression but as a vessel for human connection.  Tune in, absorb the inspiration, and discover the beauty of music in every beat and lyric. Be sure to subscribe, share, and join us as we continue to celebrate the stories that make music so profoundly impactful! Check out Misty:  Linktree Instagram Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    46 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Casey Feigh: Monty Python, Spike Lee, Sesame Street, Rhymesayers, and SportsCenter

    Send us a text The incredible and funny Casey Feigh joins My Pop Five for a fascinating dive into the cultural touchstones that shaped his unique comedic voice. With his signature warmth and thoughtfulness, Casey unpacks how everything from British comedy troupe Monty Python to Minneapolis hip-hop collective Rhymesayers Entertainment influenced his creative journey from small-town Minnesota to becoming a standout force in LA's comedy scene. Casey's reflects  on Spike Lee's impact starting with Lee's iconic Nike campaigns with Michael Jordan before discovering films like "Do the Right Thing" and "Malcolm X," which expanded his worldview in profound ways. The story of wearing a Malcolm X hat to soccer games in predominantly white Minnesota reveals how cultural influences can shape identity in unexpected ways. What makes this conversation special is how Casey connects these diverse influences to his current work. His childhood love of Sesame Street directly feeds his improvisational approach ("doing improv is like just playing make-believe with my friends"), while his experiences playing team sports inform how he collaborates with fellow performers. The discussion reveals how creative identity forms through the cultural artifacts we embrace throughout our lives. As co-founder of the acclaimed Holy Shit Improv group, Casey embodies the entrepreneurial spirit he admired in Rhymesayers, creating opportunities not just for himself but for an entire community of performers. His reflections on building something meaningful and authentic while maintaining artistic integrity offer valuable insights for creators in any field. Whether you're a comedy fan, a fellow performer, or simply curious about how culture shapes our creative voices, this episode delivers thoughtful analysis alongside genuinely funny moments that showcase why Casey has become such a respected figure in comedy. Discover the pop culture that transforms ordinary experiences into extraordinary creative journeys. Follow @holyshitimprov Follow @caseyfeigh  https://linktr.ee/caseyfeigh Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    1h 2m

  3. EPISODE 3

    Alix Page: Stranger In The Alps, John Carney, 500 Days of Summer, Peter Pan, and Jane Austen Movie Adaptations

    Send us a text Listen To Alix's Latest EP "Bug" When songwriters reveal what shaped them, magic happens. Alix Page peels back the curtain on her artistic development in this intimate conversation about the films, music, and stories that built her creative foundation. From her early days leading worship at a Christian middle school to finding her voice at Orange County School of Arts, Alix shares how releasing her first single "Stripes" in 2020 marked the beginning of her musical journey. What truly transformed her approach was discovering Phoebe Bridgers' "Stranger in the Alps" – an album that showed her a new path forward. "I hadn't heard anything like that until then," Alix reveals, explaining how Bridgers' stripped-back authenticity gave her permission to simply show up and be herself. The conversation weaves through unexpected connections – like collaborating with Mark McKenna from "Sing Street" after years of using John Carney's film as pre-tour inspiration, or bumping into Bill Nighy the day after watching him in "Emma." These serendipitous moments mirror Alix's songwriting approach: finding beauty in life's small, meaningful intersections. What emerges is a portrait of an artist whose work blends the melancholic storytelling of Bridgers, the character depth of Jane Austen adaptations, and the emotional honesty of "500 Days of Summer." For fans of Alix's music or anyone fascinated by creative influence, this episode offers a window into how art inspires art across generations and mediums. Listen now to discover the cultural touchstones behind one of today's most captivating emerging songwriters – and perhaps gain insight into the influences shaping your own creative path. See Alix on Tour Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    57 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Our Pop Five: What Happens When You Actually Try the Things People Recommend?

    Send us a text What happens when you finally experience the books, movies, and music everyone's been telling you to check out for years? Ryan and Daniel revisit four seasons of podcast conversations to reveal how "My Pop Five" has fundamentally changed their relationship with art and culture. The conversation begins with Daniel's newfound obsession with Robert Eggers' "Nosferatu" before pivoting to the heart of the episode: reflecting on cultural touchstones they might never have experienced without the podcast's recommendation format. Daniel shares how Devon's early episode featuring the band Brand New transformed his entire approach to music, while Ryan recounts how interviewing Juliana Zachariou deepened his appreciation for her artistry beyond fandom. The hosts trade stories of belated cultural education—Daniel's deep dive into David Lynch's filmography came heartbreakingly close to the director's passing, while Ryan finally binged the Harry Potter series after years of avoidance, culminating in watching the final film with the LA Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl. Their discussion of The Simpsons reveals how revisiting certain works uncovers layers of cultural influence previously invisible to them. Perhaps most touching is their exploration of how our relationship with art evolves as we age. Daniel describes rewatching The Iron Giant in a theater years later and being moved to tears by nuances his younger self couldn't appreciate. These moments of reconnection with art—seeing it through more experienced eyes—showcase how static works can yield entirely new meanings as our lives progress. As we stream into Season 4, join us for more conversations about the art and media that shape our lives, and the beautiful connections formed when we share what we love with the people around us. What recommendation have you been putting off that might change everything? Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    43 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    Dylan Glatthorn: The Beatles, Sondheim's "Assassins" , Laura Marling's "Once I Was An Eagle", Jurassic Park, and "There Will Be Blood"

    Send us a text What makes a composer tick? In this absorbing conversation with Dylan Glatthorn, we explore the unexpected creative influences that have shaped his musical identity. From a shy child with a toy piano to an accomplished composer for theater, film, and television, Dylan's journey reveals how early artistic experiences can profoundly shape a creative career. Dylan takes us back to his childhood in Tampa Bay, where The Beatles served as the "connecting glue" between his parents' different musical tastes – especially meaningful after their divorce. This early exposure to melodic innovation established his appreciation for music that balances emotional vulnerability with technical precision, a hallmark of his own compositional approach. The conversation delves into the nuanced storytelling of Sondheim's "Assassins," which captivated Dylan with its ability to navigate morally complex territory while balancing serious themes with sharp comedy. Similarly, Laura Marling's album "Once I Was an Eagle" demonstrates the power of music that is "both tender and subtle but also big and heartbreakingly forward" – a quality Dylan strives for in his own work. When discussing Spielberg's "Jurassic Park," Dylan analyzes how John Williams' score enhances the story without overpowering it, while Paul Thomas Anderson's "There Will Be Blood" showcases Johnny Greenwood's experimental approach to film music. These contrasting influences reflect Dylan's versatility as a composer who can move between traditional melodic structures and more innovative techniques. Throughout our conversation, Dylan articulates a creative philosophy centered on authenticity: "Keep writing what you like, not what you think other people will like." This principle guides his current project "The Pelican," a musical about a coastal Florida town facing complete destruction from an approaching hurricane. Whether you're a fellow creator or simply curious about the artistic process, this episode offers valuable insights into how diverse influences coalesce into a unique creative voice. Check Out Dylan's Work Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    1h 8m

  6. EPISODE 6

    SYML: Love Liza, "The Road", "Grace" by Jeff Buckley, jjjjound.com, and James Turrell

    Send us a text Step into the world of acclaimed musician SYML as he joins us for a powerful and introspective conversation about creativity, influence, and artistic evolution. From his early days with Barcelona to his current work as a solo artist, SYML reflects on the moments and media that have deeply shaped his perspective as a songwriter. We touch on films, literature, and music that left lasting impressions—some of which may surprise you—and explore how fatherhood and visual art have expanded his sense of meaning and connection in his work. Throughout the episode, SYML shares personal stories behind his latest record Nobody Lives Here, offering a glimpse into his creative process and emotional lens. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering his sound, this episode offers a rare and intimate look into the heart of an artist whose music continues to resonate across the world. Stream Nobody Lives Here now and catch SYML on tour across the UK and Europe. For dates and more, visit symlmusic.com. Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    50 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Zack Quintana: Dark Side of The Moon, Be Here Now, Europe '72, Are You Experienced, and Purple Rain

    Send us a text Guitar prodigy Zack Quintana takes us through his remarkable musical journey, from picking up the guitar at age four to fronting bands by eight years old. With footage showing him shredding Hendrix solos as a child, it's no wonder the podcast host introduces him as "one of the best guitarists I ever met." During this intimate conversation, Quintana reveals the profound impact of Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon on his approach to guitar playing. Rather than focusing on technical prowess, he learned to appreciate David Gilmour's "simple but powerful and tasteful" style where "every note is perfectly placed." This watershed moment coincided with his discovery of synesthesia – a condition that allows him to "hear colors" – making the album particularly significant in his development. The spiritual dimension of Quintana's artistry emerges through his discussion of Ram Dass's "Be Here Now," which helped him navigate the tension between artistic expression and ego-driven validation. "Creating for me is now almost meditative than trying to get a hit record," he explains, offering valuable perspective on maintaining authenticity in an industry often focused on external metrics of success. Live performance holds special significance for Quintana, inspired by the Grateful Dead's legendary Europe '72 recordings. He champions the idea that each performance should be unique, a philosophy that extends to his recording approach – prioritizing live energy even in studio settings. With influences ranging from Hendrix's revolutionary guitar techniques to Prince's commanding stage presence, Quintana continues crafting his distinctive musical identity with new releases on the horizon.  Follow Zack on Instagram @ZackQuintanaOfficial and don't miss his upcoming projects – a Valentine's Day single and two albums dropping this spring! Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    1 hr

  8. EPISODE 8

    Our Pop Five (May 2025): Sinners, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, Garden State's 20th, Fargo, and The Studio

    Send us a text We explore five cultural touchstones that have captured our attention, ranging from new releases to beloved classics experiencing revival. • Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" blends 1930s blues culture with vampire horror while exploring themes of brotherhood and the power of music • My Chemical Romance's upcoming remixed version of "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge" addresses longtime complaints about the original's sound quality • Garden State's 20th anniversary concert reunited most soundtrack artists, including The Shins, whose song famously "will change your life" • Fargo Season One masterfully adapts the Coen Brothers' aesthetic to television with standout performances from Billy Bob Thornton and Martin Freeman • "The Studio" on Apple TV+ offers meta-commentary on filmmaking through technically impressive one-shot scenes while examining the contradictions of studio executives' roles Go experience these cultural moments for yourself! Whether it's catching "Sinners" in theaters, streaming "The Studio," or revisiting classics like Garden State and Fargo, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    46 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    Arrows In Action: School of Rock, Mayday Parade, Fall Out Boy, Surf's Up, and Kingdom of Hearts

    Send us a text What do a classroom of kid rockers, a surfing penguin, and a keyblade have to do with a modern pop-rock band? We invited Arrows In Action to walk us through the five influences that actually shaped their sound and the world around their new record, “I Think I’ve Been Here Before.” The through-line isn’t random; it’s a map of how community, big melodies, and vivid, even unlikely, references can turn into songs that feel immediate and alive. We start with School of Rock as the north star for band life—joyful, scrappy, and possible—then move through first shows and first loves: Mayday Parade in a Florida parking lot and the earnest, high-voltage writing that stuck. Fall Out Boy anchors a craft lesson: melody first, lyrics bent to fit with conviction, and a fearless approach to range and runs learned on early morning walks. The conversation swerves to Surfs Up, a surprising but perfect fit; its sun-faded soundtrack and underdog heart seeped into the album’s front half, right down to a track that syncs to the film’s final surf sequence. And Kingdom Hearts adds scale and stakes—cinematic intros, friendship-as-compass themes, and little glints of “video game” texture that give their arrangements lift. We dig into how the band rebuilt in 2018, moved in together, wrote relentlessly, and designed this release as two cohesive halves with their own tones. They talk intentional choices—synth colors, vocal stacks, and tempos—that keep the record tight without losing contrast. There are tour stories, a drum kit disaster turned crowd moment, closer debates, and practical advice for any band trying to “do it for real”: keep improving the music, copy what works and make it yours, persist when numbers dip, and make sure it stays fun. If you love pop-punk, emo-adjacent hooks, and big-hearted songwriting, this one’s for you. Hit play, stream “I Think I’ve Been Here Before,” and tell us which influence you hear first. And if you enjoyed the show, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps more listeners find the music and the stories behind it. Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    54 min

  10. EPISODE 10

    Harmless: American Movie, Southland Tales, what.cd, House of Leaves, The Larry Sanders Show

    Send us a text Some records feel like they were built to survive the algorithm. by them, by you, by me is one of them. We sit down with Harmless to unpack how an album can be both tighter and fuller by saying no—no to bloat, no to trend-chasing, and yes to constraints, honesty, and the strange joy of finishing a thing even when life gets heavy. We start with the “gospel” works that shaped his taste: American Movie as the patron saint of do-it-anyway creativity; Southland Tales as a teenage obsession that taught him to defend bold art on its own terms; and the secret world of what.cd, where lossless rips, vinyl transfers, and deep threads turned ambient, experimental, and electronic music into a lifelong compass. Those influences explain the album’s texture: guitar-forward songs with an electronic brain, humble tools used with intent, and arrangements that feel tactile rather than crowded. The conversation also digs into the hardest parts. Harmless talks candidly about grief during production, turning in the most “noteless” record of his career, and rediscovering the peace of process over outcomes. We explore how House of Leaves mirrors internet-shaped storytelling, why The Larry Sanders Show remains the blueprint for ambitious, unlikable, deeply human art, and how an ADHD-friendly studio ritual—loop a take while a comfort show plays silently—can unlock flow when pressure spikes. We tackle AI and the future of music with clear-eyed optimism: technology will keep changing the tools, but people still gather around story, myth, and the watercooler. The work that lasts is the work that lets us talk to each other. If you’re craving a thoughtful, funny, and grounded look at taste, constraints, and creative resilience, this one’s for you. If the episode resonates, tap follow, share it with a friend who loves discovering new artists, and leave a quick review—then tell us the “gospel” film or record that shaped your taste. Follow My Pop Five: @mypopfive on all platforms We'll see you next time. But until then, what's your Pop Five?

    57 min
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About

Every artist has that one piece of pop culture that ultimately became their catalyst for wanting to create in the first place. Who are we kidding, it’s way more than one, but let’s narrow it down a bit. In our show, we bring on guests in the entertainment industry to break down five pieces of pop culture that had an influence on them or helped shape them to become the creators and innovators that they are today. Join us as we get nostalgic, geek out about the things we love, and ultimately learn just how influential pop culture is on who we are.

Information

  • Creator
    My Pop Five Productions
  • Episodes
    59
  • Seasons
    4
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 My Pop Five
  • Show Website
    My Pop Five