Alastair Campbell on Mental Health, Politics and Finding Strength Through Music w/Allman Brown

Songwriter Leroy Stagger speaks with writer Alistair McIntosh about the mental-health strain many experienced during COVID, the need for community, and how the “pause” helped Leroy slow down, reconnect with spirituality, and better understand his purpose as a touring musician. Leroy credits Alistair’s books, especially Soil and Soul and Poacher’s Pilgrimage, along with authors and artists like Patti Smith, Nick Cave, and others, for shaping his thinking about kindness, poetry, and a “divine inner reality.” Alistair discusses the Scottish bardic tradition, the “carrying stream,” mentoring through people, visions, and dreams, and the idea that spiritual insight is a gift of grace rather than willpower. They explore prayer as “holding others in God,” the dark night of the soul, interconnectedness, and keeping “one eye on the ground and the other on the stars,” then close with plans for Leroy to write a song inspired by the conversation.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/carryme-ls00:00 Welcome and Apology01:03 Mental Health and Modern Life02:11 COVID Pause and Self Discovery05:03 Books That Sparked Spirituality07:30 Patti Smith and Communal Faith13:58 Finding the Bardic Calling18:09 Origins of a Writer22:44 Carrying Stream and Fairy Hill25:17 Second Sight Story32:57 Divine Inner Reality36:07 Community Love and Beauty41:30 Grace and Dark Night44:18 God Come to My Heart46:50 Mantra and Grace47:38 Interfaith Mountain Paths49:48 Prayer in Torture54:06 God Carry Me56:34 Grounded and Starbound59:19 Aftershow and Next Guests01:02:30 Studio Talk and Songwriting01:07:56 Closing Song Snippet

In this episode of Podsongs, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Valerie June sits down with world-renowned mindfulness teacher and author Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).Together, they explore mindfulness, meditation, breath, creativity and music as practices of awareness and connection. Valerie shares how meditation has shaped her daily life and artistic process, while Jon reflects on the philosophy of mindfulness, the idea of “the story of me,” and why presence matters more than ever in a fast-paced, overstimulated world.This deep, wide-ranging conversation touches on music as meditation, spiritual experience, activism, environmental responsibility, and the power of small, conscious actions. The interview also lays the groundwork for a new song, A Rest Between Breaths, written in direct response to the insights shared during the conversation.Whether you’re interested in mindfulness meditation, breathwork, conscious creativity, or the intersection of music and spirituality, this episode offers rare depth, warmth and practical wisdom.Listen to the song inspired by this episode:A Rest Between Breaths – Valerie JuneSpotify pre-save: https://ffm.to/arestbetweenbreathsAbout PodsongsPodsongs is a unique podcast created and hosted by Jack Stafford, pairing musicians with thinkers, writers and cultural figures they admire. Each episode begins with a long-form conversation and ends with an original song inspired by the exchange. Podsongs was recorded at Goldmine Records in Vallo della Lucania, Italy.More information:Podsongs: https://podsongs.com/Valerie June: https://www.valeriejune.comJon Kabat-Zinn: https://jonkabat-zinn.com/Chapters00:00 Valerie June & Jon Kabat-Zinn on Podsongs00:55 Creativity, music and inspiration02:46 Mindfulness in everyday life04:14 Breath, meditation and awareness07:54 Valerie June’s mindfulness journey09:10 Music as meditation15:21 Spiritual experience and presence17:48 Introducing Jon Kabat-Zinn26:06 Mindfulness, music and meaning53:54 Memory, family and tradition54:26 Mindfulness and liberation55:47 Activism and small actions57:06 Meditation and global awareness59:20 Generational responsibility and the environment01:00:26 The simplicity of meditation01:01:19 Human interconnectedness01:08:30 Art, science and mindfulness01:29:08 Breath in yoga and meditation01:42:36 Final reflectionsSubscribe for more conversations on mindfulness, music, creativity and change.

⁠Alastair Campbell⁠ joins host ⁠Jack Stafford⁠ and musician ⁠Allman Brown⁠ for a rare and deeply human conversation on Podsongs.Known for his central role in New Labour and his openness about mental health, Campbell reflects on vulnerability, resilience and leadership under pressure. The discussion moves from mental health in politics and the emotional weight of decision-making to Brexit, legacy and comparisons between past and present political leaders. Music weaves throughout the episode, offering insight into creativity, survival and Campbell’s lifelong love of sound — including an unexpected passion for bagpipes.A thoughtful, wide-ranging podcast episode exploring politics, mental health and the power of music to shape who we become.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/livingbetter00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:10 Discussing Alistair Campbell's Inspiration01:45 Mental Health and Vulnerability02:51 The Impact of Podcasts03:46 Music Industry Challenges11:10 Boarding School Experiences15:08 Songwriting and Creative Process24:53 Alistair Campbell Joins the Conversation31:46 Defining Bravery and Personal Growth34:05 Political Vulnerability and Empathy37:52 Mental Health in Politics48:40 Creative Processes and Inspirations01:00:30 Legacy and Historical Impact01:09:22 Tony Blair's Legacy Beyond Iraq01:10:15 Angela Merkel and the Fluidity of Legacy01:11:34 Emotionality in Politics: Blair vs. Modern Leaders01:12:30 Keir Starmer and the Modern Political Landscape01:13:40 The Weight of Leadership Decisions01:16:58 Understanding Brexit and Political Discontent01:26:19 The British Empire and Education01:28:10 Reflections on Global Political Shifts01:30:36 Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs

Jay Malinowski (Bedouin Soundclash) meets renowned Irish philosopher Richard Kearney for an extraordinary conversation on anatheism, spirituality, doubt, imagination, and the power of music.This Podsongs episode blends philosophy, music, creativity, and spiritual insight—and it all leads to an original song inspired by the interview.If you’re interested in deep conversations, faith and doubt, the human experience, Canadian indie music, Irish philosophy, or the creative process, this is one of the most inspiring episodes we’ve recorded.Jay Malinowski opens up about his artistic journey, life between Victoria and LA, and how philosophy shapes his songwriting with Bedouin Soundclash. Richard Kearney breaks down anatheism, the role of the stranger, interfaith dialogue, humour, hospitality, and why sacredness can be found in ordinary life.👉 A must-watch for fans of meaningful conversations, spiritual seekers, and musicians who love exploring the deeper layers of creativity.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/dogsofgod⁠http://www.jaymalinowski.com⁠⁠https://richardmkearney.com⁠00:00 Welcome to Podsongs: Meet Jay Malinowski01:39 Jay Malinowski's Journey and Inspirations03:35 The Intersection of Music and Philosophy03:55 Exploring Bedouin Soundclash's Evolution05:28 The Influence of UK Music on Bedouin Soundclash08:19 The Role of Canadian Support in Music10:06 Life in Victoria and Balancing LA11:53 Philosophical Influences in Jay's Music18:30 Introducing Richard Kearney22:37 Understanding Anatheism28:25 The Role of Doubt in Faith and Art35:09 The Concept of the Stranger39:59 Anatheism in Practice50:30 Uncompromising Hospitality and Real-World Challenges57:43 The Good Friday Agreement and Narrative Exchange58:56 The Power of Touch and Vulnerability59:59 Humor and Imagination in Conflict Resolution01:03:21 Interfaith Dialogue and the Role of Humor01:13:13 The Sacredness of the Ordinary01:20:43 The Spiritual Connection with Animals01:30:03 Reflections on Spiritual Beliefs and Practices// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs

Can you optimise this text for wild foraging: Musician Griffin William Sherry on Hunting, Foraging, and Creative Writing with Jenna Rozelle | Pod Songs InterviewIn this episode of Pod Songs, host Jack Stafford brings together Griffin William Sherry, lead singer of Ghost of Paul Revere, and Maine-based forager, writer, and wild foods educator Jenna Rozelle. They dive into a captivating discussion on their love for the outdoors, the impact of the pandemic, transitioning from band life, and the intersections between hunting, foraging, creative writing, and poetry. Griffin shares insights about his music career and new solo project while Jenna reflects on her Substack, 'Appetites,' and the inspiration behind her poetry. Tune in to hear an enriching conversation that beautifully blends themes of nature, food, creativity, and artistic collaboration. Stay till the end for a song inspired by their discussion!00:00 Welcome to Podsongs01:49 Meet Griffin William Sherry02:59 Life After Ghost of Paul Revere04:36 Exploring New Interests08:03 Jenna Rozelle: A Unique Guest22:19 Jenna's Background and Inspirations30:04 The Art of Revision31:15 Growing Up on a Homestead32:05 Discovering Hunting and Fishing33:08 The Learning Curve of Hunting35:30 Creative Thrills and Writing39:38 Dreams as a Source of Inspiration41:58 The Power of Natural Sounds44:07 Respect for the Natural World01:04:37 The Intersection of Cooking and Writing01:10:22 Reflecting on Routine and Creativity01:11:45 The Writing Process: From Ideas to Execution01:14:56 Tools and Techniques for Capturing Inspiration01:15:53 The Role of Routine in Writing01:20:08 Exploring the Connection Between Creativity and Substances01:30:32 Finding Joy and Freedom in Writing01:32:52 The Importance of Knowing Your Place01:38:34 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this 14th 'Track by Track' episode of Podsongs, host Jack Stafford, and musicians Maurizio Sanicola and Luigi Falcione reflect on their inspiring musical journey across the last 12 episodes. They discuss collaborations with diverse artists like Atlas, EMA, and The Reverend Peytons Big Damn Band, inspired by fascinating interviews with guests such as dog trainer Linda Michaels, writer Ocean Vuong, and climber Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive songs that blend various genres and unique instrumentation. Join the ride through memory lane and get insights into the creative process behind these impactful albums.// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs

Belgian guitarist Quentin Dujardin joins pro climber Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll on Podsongs to explore the link between music, creativity, and the art of rock climbing. From life lessons on Greenland’s big walls to finding rhythm on uncharted rock faces, this conversation dives deep into what it means to balance risk, artistry, and adventure.Stream the song that resulted from the interview: https://ffm.to/verticalbreath

In this special episode of Podsongs, musician Ceschi Ramos sits down with award-winning writer Ocean Vuong (On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, Night Sky with Exit Wounds) for a raw, deeply personal conversation about art, identity, music, and grief.This is the kind of conversation that only results when two artists at the same level, but in different disciplines, can really judge and appreciate one another's work. And Ocean said Ceschi's insights were "the most accurate and kindest thing anyone has ever said about my work."They explore their shared Connecticut roots, the influence of punk rock and hip-hop on their creative journeys, and the impact of family history, war, and loss on their work. From Buddhism and coping with trauma to navigating the commercial pressures of the creative industry, this dialogue offers profound insights into the intersections of music, literature, and personal history.If you’re drawn to multicultural identity stories, poetry that cuts to the bone, and the uncompromising pursuit of authenticity in art, you’ll want to hear every minute.The song that is inspired by the conversation is called "CHANGE OR DIE": https://ffm.to/changeordie00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

In this deeply reflective episode of Podsongs, musical duo Samana (www.samanaroad.com) — Rebecca Rose Harris and Franklin Mockett — engage in a soulful and thought-provoking dialogue with award-winning poet and novelist Anne Michaels, author of Fugitive Pieces (www.annemichaels.ca).Topics Covered: The role of solitude in the creative processArt as ritual, healing, and transcendenceThe subconscious mind and dreams as creative catalystsReflections on death, absence, and presenceLife in rural France, Italy, and WalesThe impact of technology on creativityIndigenous wisdom, shamanism, and the unseenThe power of analog recording and emotional truth in musicCreating a new piece of music inspired by the conversationThis episode was recorded during Samana’s artistic residency in the French countryside, and culminates in a musical collaboration inspired by Anne Michaels and the themes of the conversation.Whether you’re an artist, writer, musician, or seeker, this interview will resonate with the part of you drawn to beauty, mystery, and meaning.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/thresholds00:00 Introduction to Samana00:36 Journey Through Eastern Europe00:59 Creating in Solitude01:24 Philosophy Behind Samana’s Music01:54 Life in the Welsh Countryside02:19 Anne Michaels Joins the Conversation03:01 Reflections on Life in France and Italy03:14 The Artistic Residency and Creative Process11:32 COVID-19 and Artistic Collaboration13:18 Exploring Anne Michaels’ Work18:01 Shamanic Performance and Symbolism19:34 Creative Inspiration and Interconnection21:39 Connecting Deeply with Anne Michaels38:48 Rituals in Writing and Life41:54 Analog Sound and Emotional Truth43:23 Nature and the Subconscious46:58 The Dead, Thresholds, and Memory48:47 Indigenous Wisdom and Seeing the Unseen01:02:57 Death, Dreams, and the Subconscious01:12:19 Rituals as Creative Anchors01:30:56 Solitude vs. Digital Distraction01:44:04 Mortality and Personal Transformation01:48:55 The Role of Absence in Creation01:56:42 Death, Mystery, and the Poetic Lens02:00:27 Artistic Collaboration and Intimacy02:16:28 Gratitude and the Journey02:25:00 Closing Reflections and Future Work// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs

In this thought-provoking episode of Pod Songs, host Jack Stafford sits down with Icelandic singer-songwriter Svavar Knútur and Neil and Sarah from the YouTube channel Leftist Cooks for a wide-ranging conversation on empathy, activism, and the fight to preserve cultural identity through language and music.Together, they explore how streaming platforms like Spotify contribute to the erosion of minority languages, why kindness and emotional intelligence are essential tools for social change, and how art and activism intersect in a divided world. Topics include ageism, implicit bias, feminism, sex positivity, the politics of inclusion, and the importance of embracing nuance in difficult conversations.Whether you’re passionate about linguistic diversity, progressive politics, or the healing power of music, this episode offers rich insights and emotional depth.Stream the song: https://ffm.to/receipeforsomethinghttps://www.youtube.com/TheLeftistCooks⁩https://www.svavarknutur.com00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:20 Catching Up and Personal Updates04:54 Discussing the Leftist Cook08:07 Reflections on Ageism and Society11:04 Life in Iceland and Touring Challenges13:28 Grandparenthood and Family Life14:20 Preparing for the Interview19:28 Welcoming Neil and Sarah21:02 Current Projects and Challenges24:55 Deep Dive into Feminist Texts and Sex Positivity28:14 The Core Principle of Helpfulness29:09 Navigating Epistemic Conundrums30:05 Addressing Anger and Moving Forward30:55 The Importance of Dual Perspectives33:08 Introducing the Leftist Cooks33:58 Challenging Ageism and Boomer Stereotypes37:34 The Complexity of Social Taboos45:09 Implicit Bias and Internal Struggles53:12 The Role of Art in Social Movements59:07 Redefining Happiness and Embracing Grief01:11:23 Engaging in Difficult Conversations01:14:57 Navigating Difficult Conversations01:15:50 Meeting People Where They Are01:17:21 The Importance of Diverse Voices01:18:48 The Challenge of Inclusion01:22:48 The Fragility of Human Emotions01:32:20 Cultural Genocide in Music01:35:39 The Power of Language01:40:34 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections// SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL //Newsletter, donations and download the song for €/$1 @ https://podsongs.com// LINKS //Website: https://podsongs.comPodcast episodes: https://podsongs.com/podcast-episodesSongs: https://podsongs.com/musicSpotify artist: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32FYyRx1y1ex3jHHAgLMC7?si=4Nv7WW85SbSPZvCsj1o7IgSpotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sN1viy82HPiNTVX2YBxpq?si=1b84c2b9bdea4656// SOCIAL //Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsongsInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsongsFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsongs