Bleeding Metal Podcast

The Nightwish Council is back! Kiki is joined by former co-host Pia, and Simon McMurdo to discuss Floor Jansen’s departure from Nightwish, the band’s public statements, fan reactions and what the band might do next - with the hottest of takes in the matter.They also talk about how touring, money and changing personal priorities can shape a band’s lineup. The conversation ranges from Nightwish’s history to other symphonic metal lineup changes, with plenty of speculation and humor.00:00 The Nightwish Council is in session01:42 Recapping recent event in the Nightwish world04:11 The third singer split: Floor and Nightwish10:15 The Financial Reality of Music13:51 Musicians' Autonomy and Fan Expectations16:06 The Council's reactions to Nightwish's latest lineup change19:30 Humor and memes in the face of change and uncertainty22:50 Our own speculation about the new Nightwish singer30:18 Others' speculations about the new Nightwish singer34:51 The Nightwish Council analyzes other bands' drama40:22 Other updates from the Nightwish CouncilFind out more:The mentioned recent episode with Anneke van Giersbergen.The mentioned Metal Hammer UK cover with Nightwish’s 30th anniversary special.Follow Simon’s projects on instagram.The previous Nightwish Council episode.Simon MCMurdo’s first appearance as a guest.Recorded on October 29th, 2026.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Kiki shares two short interviews recorded at summer festivals before her break between podcast seasons. Marina LaTorraca talks about stepping in as Battle Beast's new vocalist, hours before her first Finnish show. Anneke van Giersbergen looks back on 30 years of Mandylion and the reunion of The Gathering.01:45 Marina La Torraca before her first Finnish show with Battle Beast09:29 Marina's work as a vocal producer15:01 Catching up with Anneke van Giersbergen20:33 30 years of Mandylion and The Gathering's reunion28:03 Kindness and positivityFind out more:Kiki’s first interview with Marina LaTorraca as part of Exit EdenBATTLE BEAST on the Tuska Forum by Bleeding Metal 2025Kiki’s first interview with Anneke van GiersbergenAnd her interview with The Sirens Marina recorded on Sat., June 20th at Nummirock 2026.Anneke recorded on Thu., July 16th at John Smith 2026.Intro recorded on October 30th, 2026.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric.

The myth of cancel culture falls apart fast when you trace who actually gets "cancelled" and who keeps getting booked. Kiki and Merle Doering unpack the real mechanics behind accountability in metal, from sexism and gatekeeping to why informed choices matter.This conversation matters because silence is complicity. Every justified aggression, every defended predator, every “it’s just music” excuse helps normalize the same harm that keeps people unsafe and unwelcome. If you care about metal, we encourage you to look harder at what you support and why.02:14 How Merle discovered heavy music and became a booking agent04:48 Challenges Merle faced as a young woman in the music industry06:10 Misogyny in the Metal community and societal normalization11:06 The myth of cancel culture vs. societal accountability13:48 Supporting questionable artists: making informed decisions16:31 Your favorite artist is not cancelled, they're facing consequences22:38 Second chances and coming back from "cancellation"25:24 Prioritizing and supporting Human Rights28:42 The importance of festival and tour lineups with more diversity and less predators31:08 Information to decide who to support in the Heavy Music industry33:09 Safety in live music environmentsFind out more:Merle’s booking agency Catch 22Merle’s 2024 Inferno Conference Panel about hate speech in MetalInterview recommendation: Evan Rachel Wood talks about the repercussions she has faced for speaking out against Marilyn MansonThe mentioned research tool “Sketchy Metal Bands” PDFThe mentioned Famous Male Abusers databaseRecorded on October 19th, 2026.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Eivør joins Kiki on Bleeding Metal to talk about “Tungl”, her upcoming album shaped by darker, drum-heavy soundscapes, emotional honesty, and a deep connection to her Faroese roots.In this emotional conversation, Eivør looks back on growing up in a small village in the Faroe Islands, discovering musical freedom through jazz and iconic singers, and studying classical singing in Iceland, and how she explores the many textures of the human voice.Kiki and Eivør also discuss the cinematic feel of Tungl, Eivør’s work on God of War, her fascination with Nordic mythology, and the way live music can make people feel connected and less alone.00:42 Bleeding Metal comes back with Eivør and her upcoming album Tungl01:35 Eivør's childhood in the Faroe Islands and early influences05:22 Eivør joins Kiki on the Bleeding Metal Podcast06:14 Eivør's early start in the music industry07:39 Eivør's early female influences10:36 Eivør's vocal training and musical education13:05 Emotion and authenticity in Eivør's songwriting process17:40Eivør's work in the God of War video games19:26 The Nordic Mythology is in Eivør's DNA and Songwriting20:40 Kiki's experience of Eivør's live performance23:00 Eivør's Message of TogethernessFind out more:Tour dates and all info on Eivør's websitePre-order Eivør's new album “Tungl” out on October 16th, 2026Recorded on October 8th, 2026.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this season finale, Kiki welcomes back Heta Hyttinen after eight years of our first interview at Tuska Festival in 2018. Together with Katja Vauhkonen, these expert #WomenInMetal share their experiences in artist management and PR as well as why live music remains an irreplaceable experience for Metal fans. From the real rewards of managing smaller bands to navigating the rise of AI-generated music, Heta and Katja offer a confident perspective on what it really takes for bands to thrive today - SPOILER: there is no true recipe for success. 00:00 Heta Hyttinen & Katja Vauhkonen on the Bleeding Metal Podcast06:23 The Passion Behind the Industry10:04 The Evolution of the Music Industry in the Internet Age17:02 Choosing Musicians and Bands to Manage22:09 The Music Industry's Dark Side: Sexism26:03 Balancing Family and Career in Music27:32 The Role of Accountability in the Music Industry30:58 Promoting Diversity in the Music Industry32:50 Creating Opportunities for New TalentFind out more:Heta Hyttinen’s Ginger Vine Management WebsiteKatja Vauhkonen’s WebsiteRecorded on April 23rd, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Karina Coss & Kiki⁠ with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Kiki welcomes Podcast friend Reetta Sjödin, A&R of Mimmi Label. Her journey from childhood festival-goer to launching a label that champions women, non-binary, and diverse artists proves change is not only possible but necessary.We break down the importance of community, mentorship, and asking questions in order to open doors that aren’t offered to us. Reetta’s efforts inspire others to challenge societal stereotypes. We also explore the Finnish love for karaoke and its therapeutic effects.00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes Pod Friend Reetta Sjödin04:23 Founding Mimmi Label06:04 Lessons Learned from Industry Experience07:07 Karaoke World Championships08:31 The Popularity of Karaoke in Finland11:13 Growth and Development of Mimi Label12:33 The Meaning Behind the Name 'Mimmi Label'14:18 Dream Collaborations and Artist Aspirations16:15 Breaking Stereotypes and Promoting InclusivityFind out more:Check out Mimmi Label's websiteBleeding Metal episode with IKINÄRecorded on May 20th, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠: Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Recurring guest and long-time friend of Bleeding Metal, Lindsay Schoolcraft joins Kiki in an episode that touches on everything from all the reasons why Artificial Intelligence should stay away from art, how the patriarchy harms everybody including men, and how different conditionings cultural backgrounds interfere in our abilities to learn vocal techniques.Lindsay breaks down the stories behind her upcoming album “Harrowing”, the symbolism in its cover art, and how her songwriting keeps evolving but will always keep some of that old-school Evanescence-style. We also go on a little tangent of how joining the lawsuit against her former band CRADLE OF FILTH was actually liberating and supportive of her Mental Health.00:00 LINDSAY SCHOOLCRAFT Comes Back After Two Years04:49 Mental Health and Self-Care Practices06:41 Standing Up for Justice in the Music Industry09:49 The Impact of AI on Music and Creativity19:00 Hope for Societal Change driven by Women23:07 Lindsay's Stories on her New Album "Harrowing"27:16 The Journey of Learning Harsh Vocals33:29 The Album Artwork for Lindsay Schoolcraft's "Harrowing"38:00 Influences and Inspirations in Music40:57 Lindsay Schoolcraft's Two Albums in Two Years coming upFind out more:Pre-order “Harrowing”Follow Lindsay Schoolcraft on InstagramLindsay’s previous Bleeding Metal episode from Nov. 28, 2023Cody Johnstone’s Bleeding Metal episode from Nov 27, 2025Lindsay’s friend and ‘So Alive’-guest vocalist Krista Shipperbottom on InstagramRecorded on May 20th, 2026 (with a few internet glitches, sorry!).Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Kiki welcomes the inspiring lead singers of Finnish Metalcore pioneers IKINÄ, Katariina and Tuuli, who advocate for more women in the genre, and how the band's latest album, "Valkyria", embodies the power of unity through themes of mythology. Learn about their groundbreaking collaboration 'Jumalatar' that was born from sisterhood and features 16 Finnish female vocalists and three languages.Together, we break down the importance of representation in metal, how mythological symbols can be sources of solace and comfort, and why the Metal community still needs to go a long way to live up to its reputation of being open-minded and inclusive. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes IKINÄ03:04 IKINÄ's lead singers and their other jobs06:38 The IKINÄ Family Dynamic08:25 Women in Metal Unity: The 'Jumalatar' Collaboration11:33 Exploring Feminine Power and Mythology15:43 The Reputation of the Metal Community19:28 IKINÄ's Festival Summer 2026Find out more:Links to IKINÄ's new album “Valkyria” etcIKINÄ's powerful song collaboration with 16 Finnish #WomenInMetalA similar dynamic of love, respect, and admiration among band members, during Kiki’s talk with ALPHAWHORESRecorded on April 25th, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Most artists crave connection but few manage to show vulnerability and turn it into a powerful space for collective healing. In this episode, A.A. Willliams shares her extraordinary transition from classical cellist to the raw, immersive sound of her own songwriting. You'll discover how her classical training gave her a unique vocal and instrumental perspective, enabling her to craft deeply genuine performances that resonate on a profoundly human level.We break down her approach to staying authentic on social media, her audience interactions during live performances, and her fearless attitude in pitching herself and her music.00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes A.A. Williams02:26 A.A. Williams' Musical Journey and Professional Background05:23 The Start of AA Williams' Own Songwriting18:25 Classical Music Studies24:57 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunities30:01 Collective Emotional Experience Through Live MusicFind out more:A.A. Williams' websitePre-order A.A. Williams' upcoming album “Solstice” - out June 5th, 2026Recorded on April 27th, 2026 on Venue - responsible for the video quality and layout. We’ll be back to our usual design soon!Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Kiki welcomes Podcast friend “Nahka-Sami” Silvennoinen, booking agent, festival promoter, and musician, who shares his unique journey through the music industry. From performing in metal bands to launching inclusive festivals, Sami discusses the importance of diversity, the realities of the industry, and how to foster safe spaces in the live music scene.This episode is a compelling call to action for the Metal community to truly embrace diversity, purposefully protect inclusive spaces, and reflect the core values that it’s known for. Sami’s honest insights challenge us to think differently and push for real change within our scene.00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes Pod Friend Nahka-Sami04:11 Sami's Musical Journey and Early Influences12:12 From Musician to the Music Business20:11 Festival Organization and Gender Representation22:51 Navigating Politics in the Music Industry31:09 Creating Safe Spaces at FestivalsFind out more:Ankea Festival Sami’s band TyranttiCoolhead BrewBook More Women Recorded on April 22nd, 2026 at Coolhead Brew in Helsinki.Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠.Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpodIntro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.