181 – Dr Lila Landowski (Neuroscientist, Science Communicator)

Dr Lila Landowski is Neuroscientist, a Science Communicator and Lecturer at the University of Tasmania.

Neuroscience is certainly not the easiest of fields to take on and Lila’s has invested years of study and research to better understand and fight some of humanity’s most crippling neurological disorders. In more recent years, working as a Postdoctoral Neuroscientist and Research Fellow, Lila’s 2 main projects centre around developing a gold standard model of stroke and discovering the underlying causes to fatigue and it’s links to many common diseases and disorders.

In our chat, I ambush Lila with a bunch of questions in an attempt to learn more about her current projects and research, which is incredibly fascinating. We dig into a bit of her childhood and how working in science was a clear goal even at an early age. That passion as a kid has lead Lila to not only excel in her field of work but to step out into the spotlight and take on the daunting task of public speaking as well as teaching to share her experiences and inspire others to pay more attention to what is happening in the world of science.

It’s assuring to know that people like Dr Linda Landowski are slaving away, sharing ideas and collaborating with other scientists all over the world as they come closer to solving some of the worlds most challenging diseases and disorders. I think it would be safe to say that regardless of the complexity and challenges that Lila’s faces every day in her field, the incremental progress and impact of her work would be significant and ultimately be life changing for many. Definitely fulfilling work.

To follow Lila’s work and learn more about her research, follow the links in the show notes.

Show notes

Follow Lila via LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | UTAS |

 

 

 

 

 

180 – Mike Feeney and Mike Cannon (Comedians, Irish…

Mike Feeney and Mike Cannon are New York based comedians and hosts of the Irish Goodbye Podcast on the Gas Digital Network.

Feeney and Cannon have their own unique styles of comedy and together the contrasts work perfectly on the podcast. The show itself is all about storytelling, whether it be Feeney and Cannon’s own misadventures in the world of comedy or bringing on guests who have their own hilarious stories to tell.

This was the last of my episodes recorded at Gas Digital studios in New York and getting the opportunity to bounce back and forth with the guys was a great way to wrap up my time there.

Irish Goodbye is one of my favourite podcasts at the moment and well worth checking out if you’re a comedy fan. If you want to check out the guys material individually, have a look at Feeney’s YouTube channel (I recommend his interview with R. Kelly) and Cannons special “I Think It Just Kicked In“.

Links to the show, check out the Gas Digital Network and everything Mike Feeney and Mike Cannon can be in the show notes.

Show notes

Check out The Irish Goodbye Podcast via Main Website | Instagram | Twitter |
Follow Mike Feeney via via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube |
Follow Mike Cannon via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube |

 

179 – Ralph Sutton (The SDR Show, GaS Digital)

 

Ralph Sutton has created the beast which is known as GaS Digital. A podcast network co-owned with comedian Luis J. Gomez which hosts popular podcasts such as Legion of Skanks, Jasta Show, Irish Goodbye, I Wanna Talk!!, Believe You Me as well as The SDR Show (hosted by Ralph alongside Big Jay Oakerson) and many more.

GaS Digital started from Ralph’s own apartment in New York and it was only mere months ago where the growth of the network and the shows lead to an investment to upscale to their very own custom built studios in Manhattan.

Close to three years in, Ralph, Luis and the wider team have grand plans to expand and continue to grow, riding the wave of podcast mania that is not only sweeping the United States, but large parts of the world.

Subscribers to the network not only get full access to all achieved episodes from each of the 20 odd shows but also are able to interact closer with the hosts, get first listen to new episodes and experience exclusive multi-media content that the general public are not able to access. Subscribers in the podcast world are difficult, but Ralph and Luis have created a model that is sure to continue to grow in the years to come.

I got to sit down with Ralph at the studios in New York to chat about the beginnings and growth of the network, his history in broadcasting which included hosting ‘Tour Bus’ for almost 20 years and his love of rock and metal which has included work with Shiprocked, VH-1 Classic, Metal Edge, M3 Rock Festival and much more.

In Australia, we are only just starting to feel the early stages of podcast fanaticism. To hear Ralph talk about how things are only just getting started in the US has me really excited to see where podcasting will go for all of our out there ranting into mics on a regular basis.

Be sure to check out Ralph on The SDR Show as well as wider network of great podcasts (some of my favourites!) on GaS Digital.

Show notes

Follow Ralph via Main Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |
Check out the SDR Show (with Big Jay Oakerson) via Main Website | Gas Digital | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram |
Gas Digital Network – Main Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube |

 

 

 

Ralph and Luis J. Gomez (Episode 178 of The Andy Social Podcast)

 

178 – Luis J. Gomez (Comedian, Legion of Skanks,…

Comedy fans should already know who Luis J. Gomez is, but now with his first ever special “Luis J. Gomez presents Luis J. Gomez“, he will definitely be showing up more on international comedy radars.

Luis is a podcasting king pin, hosting and running several of his own shows including Legion of Skanks (w/Big Jay Oakerson and Dave Smith), Believe You Me (w/Michael Bisping), The Real Ass Podcast (w/Zac Amico) and more.

Luis also co-runs/owns the GaS Digital Network with Ralph Sutton which is quickly becoming one of the most popular podcast networks that feature comedian and musician hosted shows.

I got the chance to have a chat with Luis at the GaS Digital studios in New York where we talked about freedom in comedy, the podcast network, his Ellismania MMA fight with Ryan O’Neill, as well as his experience in sales and business over the years.

Be sure to check out Luis’ new special “Luis J. Gomez presents Luis J. Gomez“ , his podcasts and if you’re a fan of any of the other shows on GaS Digitial, get over there to subscribe to receive exclusive bonus content and full episode archives from every show.

Show notes

Follow Luis via Main Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube |
Check out his new special via Main Website  | GaS Digital Network | iTunes | Apple TV | Google Play Music | Google Play Movies | Amazon Music | Amazon Instant Video |
Listen to Luis’ podcasts – Legion of Skanks, The Real Ass Podcast, Believe You Me.
Gas Digital Network – Main Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube |

Legion of Skanks – Photo by humanplac3s (Instagram)

Photo by humanplac3s (Instagram)

Luis J. Gomez with Big Jay Oakerson and Dave Smith (Legion of Skanks)

177 – Michael Sheldrick (Head of Policy, Global Citizen)

Michael Sheldrick surely wins the prize for one of most impressive job titles, as the Vice President of Global and Government Affairs for Global Citizen. Imagine rattling that one off as an introduction and being able to tell people how you have a direct impact on changing the lives of millions of people, without any dramatisation whatsoever.

Originally from Perth, Michael’s dedication to humanitarian impact has seen him work for his local government, as a Tutor for the University of Western Australia, picking up honours as the Young Western Australian of the Year in 2013, becoming a Youth Delegate for the United Nations and later relocating to New York to work with The Poverty Project before joining Global Citizen. I’m exhausted just thinking about it all!

If you’re not familiar with Global Citizen, they’re an organisation that created a movement back in 2011 that has now helped to secure over 35 billion dollars in commitments from governments, corporations and private foundations to address a broad range of issues affecting 1.7 billion people. Not a bad effort so far.

Their aim is to end extreme poverty and have had dramatic  impact in improving issues such as stopping child marriage in Tanzania, advocating for better access to water and sanitation in India, promoted polio vaccination drives, refugee settlement programs and helped create marine sanctuaries amongst many other initiatives.

It’s a mammoth task and Michael continues his impressive work with a long list of achievements including co-coordinating advocacy campaigns such as universal sanitation, access to education and helping to receive pledges of $118 million toward the eradication of polio.

Michael came as a recommendation from former high school mate Leon Todd (episode 161) to be on the podcast. While I was recently in New York I took the opportunity to stop by Global Citizen HQ in Manhattan to chat to Michael about a bit of his own story and learn more about the work that GC does, including their Festivals which have featured the likes of the Foo Fighters, Rihanna, Beyonce, and Chris Martin that bring awareness to many of these issues on the global stage.

One of the more interesting and fulfilling careers out there, Michael certainly has a lot of exciting and important things to talk about and work on. While many of us might feel that we don’t have the impact that Michael has, his story and Global Citizen show that every person can make a significant difference through individual action. Inspiring stuff!

To follow and learn more about Michael as well as Global Citizen, follow the links in the show notes.

Show notes

Follow Michael via Global Citizen | Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin |
Follow Global Citizen via Main Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube |

Thanks @AndyDowling for taking time out of your holiday to visit @GlblCtzn HQ to chat about all things #music #policy #SDGs #development #nutrition #fourthindustrialrevolution & thx to @Leon_Ragdoll for connecting us. pic.twitter.com/AThrNCmKJN

— Michael Sheldrick (@micksheldrick) February 28, 2019

 

 

 

 

175 and 176 – Jonathon Barwick (Musician, Songwriter –…

Many of us know Jonathon Barwick as the front band of Tasmanian metal band Taberah. Over the past decade or so, the band has enjoyed several well received releases, national tours and playing with many of their metal idols.

Like many bands, there are often brief lulls or periods of hibernation which are spent either writing, recording or simply re-calibrating to ensure that the band has longevity and can sustain the sometimes financial and emotional tax that can come with the territory. During these times, it’s not unusual for musicians to get introspective and assess what is going on in their own world, their priorities and where they hope to go in the future.

Jonno has been on one of these journeys. When Taberah decided to take a year off and work on other projects and plan their next chapter, Jonno found himself reassessing himself, his identify and working through parts of his life that he had been, in ways, unconsciously dissatisfied with. For anyone know who’s Jonno, you would be right to assume that he’s been going through a bit of an ‘awakening’ of sorts.

I can certainly relate to his journey and many other musicians will find his story relatable. I’ve seen lots of us carve out an identify out as a musician, a member of a band or something that has to date brought success, recognition and validation. All great things, however at times we put all of our eggs in one basket which means that when the band, the music or whatever you have identified yourself with ends or changes, it can be a really difficult transition to work out who you are and where you fit into the world.

Jonno and I go on a bit of an epic journey, reflecting back on parts of his upbringing, his late teens and early 20’s playing in a band, living moments of excess and dealing (or not dealing with) painful moments along the way. We touch on some of the pivotal moments that he’s had in more recent times and the conscious decisions he has made to take better care of himself mentally and physically. You could say that these days, Mr Barwick is happier than he has ever been and he’s excited to see what the future holds.

Speaking of epic journey’s, I am not lying. This is a double episode. We talk a lot. Jonno had warned me before hand that he would talk my ear off and well, he did. This was such a great chat that I thought it was worth splitting rather than editing it right down. That means you get two episodes in the one week. Something that I wouldn’t mind scaling up to in the future (but that’s another story).

To follow Jonathon and check out his solo work as well as Taberah, follow the links in the show notes and be sure to let him know what you thought of the episodes!

Show notes

Follow Jonathon via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Soundcloud | Twitch |
Check out Taberah via Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | Spotify |
Listen to my chat with Jonno on my Self Starter podcast about Twitch on Episode 18 HERE.

 

 

 

Photo by MickG Photography

 

Photo by MickG Photography

174 – Nadine Champion (Martial Arts Expert, Author, Speaker)

Nadine Champion is a Martial Arts Expert, Author and Public Speaker that has lived a life of growth, adversity and reward. Since an early age, Nadine found an interest in martial arts and while her journey itself has not been a straight and easy path, it led her to work to one of the world’s best in Sensei Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez, studying Ukiodkan Kickboxing and become a champion in the sport.

Through adversity comes growth and Nadine has amassed many examples of how true struggle leads to significant breakthroughs. Whether it be tests of physical or mental toughness, Nadine has enough stories to fill a book and well, she did. 10 Seconds of Courage is a autobiographic account of her life to date from living on the streets as a teenager, finding solace in martial arts and relocating the Los Angeles to train with Sensai Benny. There are many moments where Nadine overcomes physical and mental barriers in her journey, including in later years where Nadine’s fight with cancer has her facing her hardest and most important battle.

I’ve seen Nadine speak publicly and was lucky enough to read her book before we got the chance to speak. In our chat, I pick Nadine’s brain about a lot of mindset approaches and how her own experiences translate and relate to experiences that we all go through in every day life. Nadine’s mission is to help as many people find their own 10 seconds of courage to reach their highest potential. Her message has seen her speak all over the world, including TEDx Sydney where Nadine in fact needed her own 10 seconds of courage to take the stage.

This is an inspiring story of someone who has lived an extraordinary life and continues to push herself to be the best person that she can, no matter how many challenges are in the way. I’m sure that we can all relate to times in our lives where we’ve felt like giving up. This is why Nadine’s story is so relatable and so important.

To learn more about Nadine and pick up a copy of her book 10 Seconds of Courage, check out the show notes for all of the details.

Show notes 

Follow Nadine via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin |
Grab Nadine’s Book ’10 Seconds of Courage’ HERE.

 

 

 

Nadine with Sensei Benny “The Jet” Urquidez

 

 

173 – Sean Munger (Historian, Author, Podcaster)

Sean Munger is a historian, author, podcaster and teacher. Over the years Sean has amassed a catalogue of work ranging from history essays, several fictional novels, multiple podcasts, YouTube videos and several online history lessons.

Equipped with a Ph.D. in environmental history, Sean uses his expertise and love of history to teach others about not only environmental issues such as climate change, but other social topics where our past can hold answers to our current challenges. Utilising writing, audio, video and public speaking, Sean is covering as many bases as possible to educate and help shift the perspective.

To balance out his work in historical documentation, Sean’s work as an author has seen him pen several fictional novels over the years. In early 2019, Sean’s latest book Jake’s 88 saw it’s release. A coming-of-age novel set in the 1980’s about a metal loving teenager growing up in the mid-west of the United States. As Sean mentions in our chat, it’s a somewhat loose autobiographical story in places from his own life and acts a time stamp in places of what whats happening in the world in the late 1980’s. You can grab the new book here.

In our chat, Sean and I discuss his new book, his love of history and how the past can teach us how to live now. We touch on one of his podcasts ‘Second Decade’, some of his blog posts written previously and some great historical stories which should leave you hungry to check out more.

If you’re ready to jump down the Sean Munger rabbit hole of content, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put a large list of links in the show notes including some of my recommendations, his new book Jake’s 88, Second Decade Podcast and his online lesson series. You will not be disappointed.

Show notes

Follow Sean Munger via Main Website | Facebook | YouTube | Patreon |
Check out That History Guy and his online history courses.
Check out Sean’s latest book Jake’s 88 and previous books The Valley of Forever, Hotel Himalaya: Three Travel Romances, February Romance, Zombies of Byzantium, Zombie Rebellion, Doppelgänger.
Listen to Second Decade Podcast via Main Website (and most podcast players)
Listen to Double Perigee Podcast via Main Website (and most podcast players)

All Things Must Pass: The Rise and Fall of Tower Records
Blog from Sean: Warm Me Up, Scotty: What Star Trek Can Teach Business About Climate Change (Centric Law)
Recommended episode from Second Decade Podcast: EP03 The Last Frost Fair, EP06 Volcano and EP39 The Monster of Gloucester

 

 

Grab Sean’s latest book Jake’s 88 HERE.

172 – Prarthana Nandini Venunathan (Teacher, Explorer, Writer)

Prarthana (known to many as Prat) is the Social Media Manager for Psycroptic, PR & Assistant for Direct Touring, Assistant for Adversary Studios, Sub-Editor for HEAVY magazine, a blogger, traveller, teacher, and much more.

Born in India but bouncing back and forth to Australia, Prat has been establishing herself as multi-purpose and in-demand personality in both the Indian and Australian metal scenes. When acting as Tour Manager for Psycroptic in India back in 2017, several new opportunities opened up which lead her to the forefront for some of Australia’s most exciting international metal tours.

As well as being a bit of a work horse in the music world, Prat is also an English Teacher in Sydney, helping new visitors grasp our difficult and often contradicting language. Mix this in with writing work for the Australian metal press, being on the road for the never-ending amount of tours hitting the country as well as helping out at Adversary Studios, you can see that Prat certainly has her hands full.

We caught up at Adversary Studios just before a drum lesson with one of her bosses, Mr Dave Haley of Psycroptic fame, to talk about growing up in India, her spiritual roots, travelling between India and Australia, writing, relaxing in cemeteries (as you do) and heaps more.

If you want a dose of inspiration when it comes to immersing yourself in the music industry, Prarthana is definitely the person to be following.

Show notes

Follow Prarthana via Facebook | Instagram |
Direct Touring via Main Website | Facebook |
Adversary Studios via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram |
Psycroptic via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram
HEAVY Mag via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

 

With Dave Haley of Psycroptic

 

 

171 – Shaun Farrugia (In Malice’s Wake)

Shaun Farrugia is the front man for Melbourne’s thrash metal band, In Malice’s Wake. The band has been a fixture of Melbourne’s metal scene since the early 2000’s and who are highly respected by many of the Australian metal faithful.

Like a lot of Australian bands, Shaun and the guys are total DIY and take great pride in putting in the hard yards to release music and tour. Over the years they have churned out several full length albums, an EP and live album with quite a bit of the artwork being created by Shaun himself.

In addition to me living in a cave and not knowing that Shaun did a lot of the band’s artwork, I also didn’t release that he was a primary school arts teacher and had previously worked as an air brusher.

Clearly his talents extend outside of music alone and as a frustrated artist myself (which basically means I like the idea of doing art but don’t actually do it), I was keen to learn more about what he has been doing outside of the band and his interest in art and oil painting in particular, which is what he will be doing for the new album “The Blindness of Faith”.

When we caught up, the guys were about to kick off the recording sessions and Shaun was already in sketch mode, putting together multiple drafts of the cover art before creating the final piece. Their last album, “Light Upon the Wicked”, utilised the talents of Nick Keller for the artwork so with such a high bar raised, Shaun is feeling the pressure but is up for the challenge of creating something that meets or exceeds (in it’s own right) what the band has put out previously.

Getting a bit of an inside view into Shaun’s journey to date with the writing of the album (which may or may not include writing thrash metal riffs in a store room at the school he teaches at) and the challenge of creating the artwork himself again certainly adds an extra element of depth and appreciation to what will soon be a brand new In Malice’s Wake release. Can’t wait.

Narratives are what make people and their endeavours so incredibly interesting and relatable. Shaun is another guy who I have had the pleasure of knowing for quite a few years including sharing the stage on a number of occasions, however only now discovering more about who he is. The podcast does it again.

Be sure to link up with Shaun online and follow In Malice’s Wake to get the later updates for “The Blindness of Faith”.  Highly recommended if you’re a thrash fan!

Show notes

Follow Shaun via Facebook | Instagram |
Check out In Malice’s Wake via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube |

 

Photo by Jake Lowe Photography

 

 

 

Visions of Live Destruction (Artwork by Shaun) – Buy it here.

Light Upon the Wicked (Artwork by Nick Keller) – Buy it here