Almost Famous Enough

• ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy

  ep30 Begonia unravels the fantasy released November 27, 2025 1:26:37In 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.KeywordsBegonia, Glen Erickson, Winnipeg, music industry, solo artist, touring, Brothers Landreth, Juno, live performance, music, artist journey, success, performance, touring, emotional connection, amplification, discomfort, creativityGuest website: https://www.hellobegonia.com/ Guest Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/hellobegonia Guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKMptlDdQgKglySBjYJ7MGghosts: 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=1ece497360564480Almost 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:02 Meet Begonia: Beginnings and Publicity04:23 Winnipeg Roots and Mennonite Connections06:08 The Journey of Begonia's Music Career06:55 Touring and Performing Live16:04 Early Musical Influences and Aspirations20:04 The Impact of Canadian Idol22:39 Transitioning from Band to Solo Artist26:10 Navigating the Music Industry40:45 Defining Success and Future Goals48:15 Navigating the Artist's Journey48:42 The Emotional Toll of Creating Music49:16 The Challenges of Live Performances50:24 The Rollercoaster of Touring51:26 Balancing Life and Career51:48 The Slow and Steady Rise52:25 Dealing with Post-Release Emotions57:37 Maintaining Vocal Health58:53 The Importance of Indie Ownership01:03:23 The Desire for Artistic Freedom01:05:07 Concluding Thoughts and Future Aspirations01:10:08 Post-Fame with Alexi

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• ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism

  ep29 Tyson Boyd sells optimism released November 20, 2025 1:46:39Tyson 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=1ece497360564480Almost 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.chapters00:00 Introduction03:57 Conversation with Tyson Boyd19:02 Challenges in the Music Industry26:50 Tyson's Musical Beginnings38:36 Early Influences and Formative Years39:32 Transition to the Oil Field and Festival Adventures40:06 Discovering the Local Music Scene40:27 First Steps in Promoting Shows41:46 Career-Ending Injury and New Beginnings42:43 Pursuing Arts and Cultural Management43:39 Balancing Day Jobs and Night Gigs44:35 Starting a Concert Company47:01 Challenges and Evolution in the Music Industry49:31 The Role of Venues and Community Building52:46 The Financial Realities of Promoting Shows57:58 Impact of Societal Changes on the Music Scene01:04:18 Optimism for the Future of Live Music01:21:57 The Role of Music in Community Building01:22:52 Changing Demographics at Folk Festivals01:23:22 Encouraging Community Engagement01:23:51 Reflecting on the Conversation01:23:55 Tyson Boyd's Career Journey01:25:49 Post-Fame with Alexi

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• ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie

  ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie released Nov 13, 20251:40:26Greg 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 EricksonAlmost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.comAFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenoughAlmost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480Almost 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:39 Catching Up with Greg03:37 Revisiting Old Memories07:08 Musical Journeys and Church Influence12:32 Creating and Collaborating in Music38:47 Transition to Video Production42:22 Balancing Passion and Practicality45:59 The Importance of Community in Music49:35 Dealing with FOMO and Creative Desires54:04 Reflecting on the Music Industry55:00 Balancing Passion and Practicality55:50 The Importance of Music Communities56:20 Personal Integrity in Music56:48 The Role of New Sounds57:11 The Impact of Familiarity57:33 Sharing Music and Experiences58:44 The Iceland Documentary Project01:02:18 Ambassadors of Culture01:03:10 The Struggle of Creatives01:08:39 Spirituality and Music01:25:37 Post-Fame with Alexi 

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• ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention

  ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention released October 30, 2025 01:53:24Glen 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=1ece497360564480Almost 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:15 Catching up04:39 Ryan's Early Musical Influences19:35 Jonah's Musical Upbringing21:38 Jonah's Path to Music35:23 The Boom Chucka Boys Era42:20 Balancing Fame and Family45:59 Childhood Memories and Parental Influence46:59 Realizing the Impact of a Musician Parent47:57 Balancing Family and Career50:09 Pursuing Music Independently53:05 Finding a New Musical Direction53:39 Moving to Vancouver and Musical Growth57:45 Collaborations and Musical Projects01:14:24 Exploring Multiple Art Forms01:28:23 Finding Identity Beyond Music01:28:49 The Concept of Capital V Value01:29:36 Challenges of Performing and Finding Peace01:30:53 Struggles with Validation and Imposter Syndrome01:34:48 Post-Fame with Alexi

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• ep26 The Wheat Pool reunite

  ep26 The Wheat Pool reunites released October 23, 2025 2:27:20The 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=1ece497360564480Almost 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:59 Reunion and Reflections07:07 Life After the Band11:05 Touring Tales and Challenges15:37 Band Dynamics and Personal Growth35:42 Reflecting on Early Band Days36:29 Memorable Gigs and Band Conflicts39:06 Songwriting and First Album43:56 Recording Challenges and Evolution48:09 Personal Stories B

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