Almost Famous Enough – Details, episodes & analysis

ep28 Greg Gillespie is my bestie
released Nov 13, 2025
1:40:26

Greg 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 ways
• The importance of staying connected to creativity, even when it’s not a full-time career
• Navigating FOMO, ambition, and the evolving meaning of “success” in music and art
• The value of being an “ambassador of culture” and the unsung heroes who keep local scenes alive
• How spiritual backgrounds and the search for transcendence shape their relationship with music
• Memorable 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 world

The 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 connections
• Jonathan Anderson / Jonathan Inc (producer)
• “Iceland Calling” documentary project
• Reflections on Spotify Wrapped, playlist culture, and the joy of discovering new music

Connect with us:

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=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:39 Catching Up with Greg

03:37 Revisiting Old Memories

07:08 Musical Journeys and Church Influence

12:32 Creating and Collaborating in Music

38:47 Transition to Video Production

42:22 Balancing Passion and Practicality

45:59 The Importance of Community in Music

49:35 Dealing with FOMO and Creative Desires

54:04 Reflecting on the Music Industry

55:00 Balancing Passion and Practicality

55:50 The Importance of Music Communities

56:20 Personal Integrity in Music

56:48 The Role of New Sounds

57:11 The Impact of Familiarity

57:33 Sharing Music and Experiences

58:44 The Iceland Documentary Project

01:02:18 Ambassadors of Culture

01:03:10 The Struggle of Creatives

01:08:39 Spirituality and Music

01:25:37 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep27 Ryan Langlois + Jonah David with intention 
released October 30, 2025 
01:53:24

Glen 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=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:15 Catching up

04:39 Ryan's Early Musical Influences

19:35 Jonah's Musical Upbringing

21:38 Jonah's Path to Music

35:23 The Boom Chucka Boys Era

42:20 Balancing Fame and Family

45:59 Childhood Memories and Parental Influence

46:59 Realizing the Impact of a Musician Parent

47:57 Balancing Family and Career

50:09 Pursuing Music Independently

53:05 Finding a New Musical Direction

53:39 Moving to Vancouver and Musical Growth

57:45 Collaborations and Musical Projects

01:14:24 Exploring Multiple Art Forms

01:28:23 Finding Identity Beyond Music

01:28:49 The Concept of Capital V Value

01:29:36 Challenges of Performing and Finding Peace

01:30:53 Struggles with Validation and Imposter Syndrome

01:34:48 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep18 Hotel Mira is very noble
released August 28, 2025
1:45:13

Join host Glen Erickson in a candid conversation with Mike Noble, bassist for the Canadian alt rock band Hotel Mira. They delve into the band's unique use of the word 'lobotomy' in their lyrics, the personal dynamics of the band's members, and Mike's experience touring and working within the music industry. Gain insights into their creative process, how they've sustained success, and the importance of genuine relationships within the band. Discover why Hotel Mira stands out in the alt rock scene and get a sneak peek into their upcoming tour plans.

Guest website: https://www.hotelmiramusic.com/
Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/hotelmiramusic
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYC_C2L6xRGISRoYfOlEy6Q

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=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Mike Noble's Music Journey

02:50 Backstage Stories and Festival Performances

05:43 Navigating the Music Industry

15:25 Joining Hotel Mira

29:52 Recording and Radio Success

33:42 Finding the Right Producer

34:12 The Journey of 'Jungle' and 'This Could Be It for Me'

35:28 Navigating Success During COVID

39:31 The Vancouver Sound and Band Dynamics

41:00 Songwriting and Creative Process

01:01:33 Tour Life and Personal Challenges

01:10:49 The Importance of Audience Support

01:11:08 Tour Life Challenges and Personal Stories

01:12:23 Upcoming Tours and Exciting Announcements

01:14:21 Spotlight on Emerging Artists

01:16:40 Wrestling Talk and John Cena's Heel Turn

01:22:49 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep17 Boy Golden is not the boy 
released August 21, 2025 
1:13:59

Boy Golden is the stage name of Liam Duncan, a Juno-nominated alternative-country singer-songwriter based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Host Glen Erickson interviews Liam about the importance of creative discipline and serendipity in songwriting. Liam reveals his routines, including daily journaling and a weekly song club, and how they help maintain his creative flow and spiritual well-being. They also discuss the unpredictable nature of hit songs, with Boy Golden's unexpected success of 'KD and Lunch Meat'. Tune in to explore the intricate balance between business, creativity, and personal growth.

Guest website: https://www.boygolden.ca/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boygolden/
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFuCZ_8LFQa2wTbt-RIWUBQ

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

00:00 Introduction to Boy Golden

06:27 Balancing Music and Content Creation

12:18 Early Musical Journey

14:25 The Middle Coast Band Experience

19:39 Creating Boy Golden

34:43 Spirituality and Creativity

40:40 The Journey of Self-Discovery

41:12 Managing the Business Side of Music

43:33 The Challenges of Touring

45:07 Financial Realities and Social Media Pressures

45:59 The Importance of Structure and Routine

47:26 Song Club: A Creative Practice

50:13 The Value of Diverse Creative Processes

52:02 Reflections on Advice and Discipline

53:40 Post-Fame with Alexi

s1.4 Post-Fame Plus  
July 11, 2025  
00:20:22

Hosts Glen Erickson and Alexi Erickson deliver the final summer installment of Post-Fame Plus, and discuss their regrets of missing specific performances at the Edmonton Folk Fest, highlighting Kevin Morby and his song 'This is a Photograph.' They also delve into their favorite albums, with Alexi praising Joe P's 'Garden State Vampire' and its diverse yet cohesive songs. The episode wraps up with Glen sharing news about partnering with Lemmon Entertainment for Music Day in Canada and urging listeners to engage with their content to help grow the podcast.

Kevin Morby - “This Is A Photograph” (song)
(https://open.spotify.com/track/1hj8os1Xxiuo95atpJzfCp?si=03c5d1b85dc34446)
band website: https://www.kevinmorby.com/

Joe P - “Garden State Vampire” (album)
(https://open.spotify.com/album/6u3QEf6nMmYlCsV4RDC5BM?si=by0YAComQzm3nUXMGOfqmA)
band website: https://www.joepthehyena.com/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Apology for Delay

01:10 Kicking Off the Summer Series

02:13 Song Choice: Kevin Morby's 'This is a Photograph'

04:39 Deep Dive into Kevin Morby's Song

09:42 Album Choice: Joe P's 'Garden State Vampire'

14:14 Honorable Mentions and Additional Recommendations

16:40 Upcoming Season and New Partnerships

19:50 Closing Remarks and Farewell

s1.3 Post-Fame Plus  
July 3, 2025  
00:19:54

In episode three of the summer series 'Post-Fame Plus', hosts Alexi and her dad Glen discuss their music exchange challenge. Alexi shares her personal favorite song 'Why Is It Light Out?' by The Kilans, detailing its deep emotional connection to a trip in Europe and its link to her current boyfriend. Glen reciprocates with the album 'Talker' by Wilderado, emphasizing its cohesive indie rock appeal. They also touch on nostalgic challenges with music formats and hint at new music discoveries, including a recommendation for Canadian artist Noah Derksen.

The Kilans - “Why Is It Light Out?” (song)
(https://open.spotify.com/track/5gv1den7j8J3py14QjSDAP?si=bb9331d876d2450f)
band website: https://thekilans.com/

Wilderado - “Talker” (album)
(https://open.spotify.com/album/1CPOzsnaDG487fMP34wKW3?si=y5JSzxvnQlS7YS2dpmTZyQ)
band website: https://www.wilderado.co/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com

AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough

Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Series Overview

00:44 Song Exchange Format Explained

01:20 Lexi's Song Choice: Backstory and Significance

02:15 The Song That Captured a Trip

04:34 Revealing the Song: 'Why Is It Light Out?'

05:30 Protecting Special Songs and Memories

10:09 Album Discussion: Wilderado's 'Talker'

17:32 Upcoming Music Events and Recommendations

s1.2 Post-Fame Plus  
June 26, 2025 
 00:23:05

In this second bonus episode of "Post-Fame Plus," hosts Glen Erickson and Alexi Erickson share their music discoveries and personal memories associated with them. Glen introduces Purity Ring's new single 'Many Lives,' reminiscing about a memorable daddy-daughter concert night in 2016. Alexi dives into Backseat Lovers' album 'Waiting to Spill,' discussing its impact on her musical evolution and its timeless appeal. They also touch on other related artists like Joe P and Dell Water Gap.

Purity Ring - “many lives” (song)(https://open.spotify.com/track/0m7IhMn1LE5oyrGju7KqtY?si=c64d582a5df8416e*)*
band website: https://purityringthing.com/

Backseat Lovers - “Waiting To Spill” (album)  (https://open.spotify.com/album/2Gb2plO2TkNRIgoCuJGm7C?si=z4zrZ_mATyCX8aclE2Zsxw*)*
band website: https://www.thebackseatlovers.com/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Post Fame Plus

01:11 Glen's Song Pick: Many Lives by Purity Ring

02:49 Purity Ring Concert Memories

05:35 Glen's Love for Electronic Music

09:56 Alexi's Album Pick: Waiting to Spill by Backseat Lovers

12:05 The Impact of Waiting to Spill

18:07 The Importance of Listening to Full Albums

22:36 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

s1.1 Post-Fame Plus 
June 19, 2025 
00:26:00

In this bonus episode series titled "Post-Fame Plus," hosts Glen Erickson and Alexi Erickson discuss their favorite music by taking turns exchanging a full album for a song. Alexi highlights a song by The Backfires called 'Dressed for a Funeral', while Glen chooses an album by The War on Drugs titled 'Lost in the Dream.' Alexi describes her song as punchy indie rock, while Glen shares a personal story about how his album helped him through a challenging hospitalization. The episode is part of a four-part series where they exchange music recommendations while preparing for season two of 'Almost Famous Enough.’

The Backfires - “Dressed For A Funeral” (song)(https://open.spotify.com/track/3SNSOPwLKL7B2FrpC37wbT?si=e80a0eb8cd6d41e8)

band website: https://thebackfires.com/

The War on Drugs - “Lost in a Dream” (album) (https://open.spotify.com/album/51VxHZphGLsI7aUPqIkJaz?si=AobVbNeWRACTlXCSyY3W7A)

“Under The Pressure” live - youtube (https://youtu.be/ByrKdwQMGYc?si=mENozLLyzW2QctuV)

band website: https://www.thewarondrugs.net/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson 

AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Chapters 

00:00 Welcome to Post Fame Plus

00:37 Introducing the Series Concept

01:19 Song vs. Album: The Format

02:28 Alexi's Song Pick: The Backfires

03:46 Describing 'Dressed for a Funeral'

02:04 Glen's Album Pick: The War on Drugs

12:12 The Story Behind 'Lost in the Dream'

25:05 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

ep16 Jessica Lemmon is entertained 
released May 8, 2025 
1:33:49

Jessica Lemmon, CEO and founder of Lemmon Entertainment, shares her journey from being a music enthusiast in Edmonton to building a company and career in Toronto's music industry. Discussing the creation of the Lemmon Stage at Vans Warped Tour, her experience with Live Nation, and building Lemmon Entertainment, Jessica offers a raw look into the challenges, including mental health struggles and gender biases, as well as the triumphs of her career. Highlighting the importance of wellness in the music industry, Jess also introduces initiatives like Fit On Tour, and Music Day in Canada, aimed at fostering local music communities. Her story showcases resilience, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to supporting artists and redefining industry norms.

Guest website: https://lemmonent.com/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lemmonent
Guest personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlemmon32

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=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

00:00 Season One Finale Announcement

00:47 Introduction

02:55 Reconnecting with Jessica Lemmon

04:18 Memories and Milestones

06:11 Early Career Struggles

11:13 Breaking into the Toronto Music Scene

32:50 The Birth of Lemmon Stage

36:50 Building Lemmon Entertainment

45:12 Reflecting on Early Career and Dreams

45:46 Achieving the Impossible

46:21 Navigating the Music Industry

47:20 Challenges and Failures

47:35 Lemmon 2.0 and Pandemic Impact

49:10 Mental Health Struggles

53:20 Creating a Healthier Touring Culture

57:38 Lemmon Foundation and Personal Growth

01:08:03 Music Day in Canada and Future Plans

01:17:45 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep15 Arlo Maverick planting seeds 
released May 1, 2025 
1:45:17

Arlo Maverick, Edmonton-based MC and community builder, discusses his extensive career in hip hop, celebrating over 20 years in the industry. Beginning with his early inspirations and the formation of the group Politic Live, Marlon Wilson, aka Arlo Maverick, details his journey from regional recognition to national success. Glen Erickson engages with Marlon about his unique approach to music, including working with a live band and fostering a collective art creation environment. The conversation delves into Black Every Day and the ongoing racial barriers in the Canadian music industry, the systemic challenges, and the lack of infrastructure for Black musicians. Marlon also shares insights on the critical roles of mentorship and allyship in developing the music scene and challenges faced due to changing formats and radio station policies. Highlights include Marlon’s reflections on collaborations, the impact of support networks, and how aspiring artists can navigate their careers amidst systemic barriers.

Guest website: https://arlomaverick.ca
Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/arlomaverick
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/arlomaverick

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=1ece497360564480

Almost 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.

00:00 Introduction

03:04 Arlo Maverick's Musical Journey and Style

10:11 The Formation and Evolution of Politic Live

18:41 Navigating the Canadian Hip Hop Scene

25:49 Breaking Out: From Local to National Recognition

33:41 The Evolution of Music Videos

35:03 Transitioning Eras in Music

36:26 The Solo Journey Begins

37:38 Overcoming Doubts and Finding Success

41:39 The Importance of Collaboration

59:21 Addressing Racism and Privilege in Music

01:11:08 Challenges in the Music Industry

01:11:51 Funding Disparities and Genre Bias

01:13:15 Gatekeeping and Systemic Issues

01:16:21 Success Stories and Missed Opportunities

01:21:07 The Role of Community and Representation

01:34:14 Reflections and Future Directions

01:38:50 Post-Fame with Alexi