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Explore every episode of the podcast S'MAC Talk with Seth & Mackenzie

Dive into the complete episode list for S'MAC Talk with Seth & Mackenzie. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
SMAC’ TALK: Heartbreak, Healing & Honest Songwriting with Veronica Rain29 mai 202601:00:03

SMAC’ TALK: Heartbreak, Healing & Honest Songwriting with Veronica Raine

In Episode 22 of SMAC’ TALK, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Lethbridge singer-songwriter Veronica Raine for a candid conversation about music, resilience, and the stories behind her songs.

Veronica shares her journey from growing up in Southern Alberta to building momentum as an emerging artist, including her experiences in the YYC Songwriter Showdown, finding her musical community, and navigating the realities of balancing a full-time career with a growing music career. The conversation dives into the inspiration behind her latest single, “Moonlight,” a deeply personal reflection on love, sacrifice, and learning to find yourself again after a relationship ends.

Along the way, the trio discusses everything from baseball fandoms and life in Lethbridge to viral social media moments, stage experiences, songwriting, self-defense stories, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision.

Plus, Veronica closes out the episode with a live performance of “Moonlight.”

Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

🎶 Songs of the Week

  • Veronica RainMoonlight
  • Jessie BirdBreak It
  • Dan DavidsonBuckle Rubbin’

Follow Veronica Raine:
🎵 Spotify: Veronica Raine📱 Instagram: @veronicarainemusic🌐 www.veronicaraine.com

SMAC’ TALK: Championing Local Music with Mackenzie Meyer 07 mai 202600:42:35

SMAC’ TALK: Championing Local Music with Mackenzie Meyer (Episode 25)
Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with CBC Calgary Eyeopener producer and local music champion Mackenzie Meyer.

From spotlighting over 200 Alberta artists through CBC’s Local Music Project to judging major music awards across Canada, Mackenzie has become one of the biggest advocates for emerging artists in the province.

We dive into:

  • How the CBC Local Music Project started during COVID
  • Discovering and supporting Calgary’s growing music scene
  • The power of storytelling in songwriting
  • Behind-the-scenes insights into music journalism and radio
  • Her experience judging the JUNOs, Polaris Music Prize, CCMAs, and more
  • Favorite local artists, venues, concerts, and unforgettable music moments

Plus, we talk secret shows, Guns N’ Roses, Nickelback, Shawn Mendes, and why Calgary’s music community continues to thrive.

Songs of the Week:

  • Jessie Dans – Daisies
  • Marina Joyce – Let Me Go
  • Dempsey Bolton – Orange Mist

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.

SMAC’ TALK: Where Does Your Belly Button Lint Come From? with Brett Cassidy28 avr. 202600:56:34

SMAC’ TALK: Where Does Your Belly Button Lint Come From?with Brett Cassidy
Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with Calgary’s own Brett Cassidy—artist, multi-instrumentalist, and one of the most genuine voices in the local music scene.

From his early days discovering AC/DC to fronting multiple projects and carving out his own lane as a solo artist, Brett shares his journey through music, creativity, and self-discovery.

We dive into:

  • The transition from rock roots to folk storytelling
  • Balancing multiple bands and creative identities
  • The realities of gigging, saying yes (and no), and building a career in music
  • His upcoming full-length album and evolving sound
  • Why songwriting is equal parts instinct and patience

Plus, Brett gives us a glimpse into his creative process, life on stage, and what’s next—including new music on the way.

Songs of the Week:

  • Bennett Mitchell – 95
  • Chixdiggit – I Wanna Hump You
  • Paige Rutledge – Ruin Your Bar

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio.


SMAC’ TALK: Supporting the Scene with Matthew Kramer16 avr. 202600:51:33

SMAC’ TALK: Supporting the Scene with Matthew Kramer
Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with Matthew Kramer, owner of Horizon Heating and title sponsor of the YYC Songwriter Showdown.

Matthew shares the story behind taking over a second-generation business, how the HVAC industry has evolved over the years, and how his connection to music—through CKUA and community support—led him to become a passionate advocate for Calgary’s live music scene.

We also talk about:

  • The evolution of Horizon Heating and running a family business
  • Supporting local music through CKUA and live events
  • The impact of COVID on live music and audiences
  • The realities of venues, ticket pricing, and artist sustainability
  • Why initiatives like the YYC Songwriter Showdown matter

Plus, a deeper look at Calgary’s music ecosystem—what’s working, what’s missing, and where things can grow.

Songs of the Week:

  • The Mocking Shadows – Try Me
  • Kate Reid – Walked into a Bar
  • Sammy Volkov – Strangest Thing

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio.

S'MAC TALK: Finding Your Voice with Jaiden Riley03 avr. 202601:04:07

S'MAC TALK: Finding Your Voice with Jaiden Riley
Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

This week on S'MAC TALK, we sit down with rising country artist Jaiden Riley.

Jaiden shares her journey from growing up immersed in music and storytelling to finding her voice as an artist today. We dive into the influence of her Métis roots, the importance of authenticity on stage, and the process behind her debut single “Chickens in the Trailer Park.”

We also talk about:

  • Navigating personal growth and identity
  • The role of storytelling in songwriting
  • Building a band and creative team
  • What success looks like in today’s music industry

Plus, Jaiden opens up about vulnerability in performance, trusting your instincts, and creating music that truly connects.

Songs of the Week:

  • The Dudes – Mr. Someone Else
  • Kirsten Pfeifer – Till You Come Along
  • Matt Blais – Memories of You

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio

S'MAC TALK: It's Yes Until It's No with Carter Felker 23 mars 202600:54:50

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 21: Yes Until It’s No
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
👕 Segment Sponsor: Rapid Artist Merch

This week, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Alberta singer-songwriter Carter Felker for a conversation that covers everything from saying yes to gigs, writing heartbreak songs, and surviving the chaos of making records, to the fine art of karaoke, funeral shows, and why sometimes the best creative advice is just to keep showing up.

Carter shares the origin story behind his music journey, from hearing a friend play original songs around a fire in Valleyview to hauling a guitar to parties, open mics, and eventually building a career on his own terms. He opens up about the very rough process behind his first record, the long break from recording that followed, and how finding the right collaborators finally made later records feel like home instead of a battle.

The trio also talk about Carter’s latest chapter as an independent artist, the making of Loser, grant panic, touring highs, writing story songs versus personal songs, and how TV, Reddit, and life can sometimes get in the way of songwriting. Along the way, they detour into David Wilcox karaoke picks, basketball songs, growing up in small-town Alberta, and the beauty of saying yes to the right opportunities.

🎶 Songs of the Week (Rapid Artist Merch):
Joshua Beebe – “Dinosaurs”
Miles Canyon – “Good on You”
Lana Del Rey – “Henry, Come On”

S'MAC TALK: Found A Happy Accident with Julia Lutchman04 mars 202600:47:55

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 20: Found A Happy Accident
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
👕 Merch Partner: Rapid Artist Merch


Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Julia Lutchman from Found Books & Shop in Cochrane to unpack the “happy accident” that turned a COVID-era pivot from travel into one of the community’s most loved spaces part bookstore part café and part intimate live music venue.

Julia shares how Found grew from a small used book setup into the full experience it is today new books up front used books and coffee in the back and a listening room style stage designed on purpose that ended up delivering some surprisingly perfect acoustics. They talk about the stories people bring into bookstores how live music can shift a room and why Cochrane consistently shows up for community events.

The conversation also digs into Found’s evolution toward more music programming including a growing vinyl section and more events that encourage analog life plus how Found Sounds and the open mics have become a real discovery space for artists and audiences alike.

🎶 Songs of the Week (Rapid Artist Merch):
Jessie Bird – “Break It”
Duane Forrest – “Chevrolet”
Josiah – “Colors” & “Therapy”

S'MAC TALK - Getting Exposed with Logan Middleton 19 févr. 202600:47:56

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 19: Getting Exposed with Logan Middleton
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
👕 Segment Sponsor: Rapid Artist Merch

Seth and Mackenzie welcome X92.9’s Logan Middleton to the studio for Episode 19. As the host of Exposure and the station’s Imaging Director, Logan is one of Calgary’s biggest champions of local and independent Canadian music on commercial radio.

Logan breaks down what “imaging” actually means in radio, how Exposure curates 50 plus submissions a week, and why the show has become a rare platform where emerging artists can gain real credibility. The conversation dives into discovering new bands by showing up in the scene, building meaningful artist relationships like his long-running support of Q Varro, and how Exposure could evolve into more live showcases and community-driven events.

They also talk about Logan stepping back on stage as the live guitarist for Victrix, the story behind his Randy Rhoades flying V gifted by his mom, and a career highlight interview with Sloan that turned into one of his proudest moments in radio.

🎶 Songs of the Week (Rapid Artist Merch):
Connor Grant – “Hurtin’ Man”
Stolen Moon – “Reach for the Stars”
Napalmpom– “Guided by Volume”

S'MAC TALK: Weightless with 0Stella09 févr. 202600:56:22

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 18: Weightless With ØSTELLA
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🏡 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation

Up early for this one. Seth and Mac sit down with ØSTELLA an Edmonton based alt rock Irish fusion artist who rolled into Calgary fresh off a killer show at the Rec Room.

They get into life in Canada after growing up in Dublin, how a school concert lit the fire to perform, and the winding road from band life to going solo when a “someday” mindset finally ran out. ØSTELLA shares how a car accident pushed her into the jazz program at MacEwan, why learning guitar became non negotiable, and what it’s like building momentum as an artist in a post pandemic live music world.

The conversation also dives into music culture in Ireland, why Canada struggles to get crowds out, and how programs like youth music camps and all ages shows can change everything. Then it gets wild in the best way: cycle touring across Canada, collecting stories for a new record, and why the “Ø” isn’t just branding it’s a whole philosophy.

The episode wraps with a live performance of “Weightless” and a big reminder that community is still the secret weapon.

🎶 Songs of the Week:
Ross Fizzard – “I Don’t Know”
K The Chosen – “Always Fresh”
Imelda May – “Johnny Got a Boom Boom”

S'MAC TALK: How Gravity Keeps Calgary Listening with Andy Fennell02 févr. 202600:51:11

Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

🏡 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
♻️ Community Partner: Chop Value YYC

In Episode 17, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Andy Fennell — founder of Gravity — to talk about what it really takes to build a community-first venue and keep live music alive in Calgary.

Andy shares the story behind opening Gravity (despite never drinking coffee at the time), the personal turning points that pushed him to take the leap, and what he’s learned after hosting 3,500+ shows over nearly 14 years. They dig into why supporting artists matters, how Gravity’s model has evolved (cover, tips, and coffee sales that help fund performers), and what he’s seeing change in Calgary’s music scene — from fewer bands to more solo acts.

The conversation also hits big picture dreams: growing Gravity’s roastery to fuel more musician support, becoming “the coffee for musicians,” and the goal of putting an A-list artist’s name on a Gravity coffee bag someday. Plus: memorable concerts, listening-room etiquette, and why intimate rooms can beat massive crowds.

🎶 Songs of the Week (Chop Value YYC):
Kid Kali – “Third Eye”• Devin Foster – “Insomnia”• Ocie Elliott – “Feeling Fine”

S'MAC TALK: No One, No One with Jubs from SHY FRiEND27 janv. 202600:45:08

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 16: No One, No One (With Jubs / Shy Friend)
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
♻️ Community Partner: Chop Value YYC

Episode 16 is a full-on hang with Jubs from SHY FRiEND - fresh off the release of their brand-new single “No One, No One.” Seth and Mackenzie get into the real behind-the-scenes of putting music out: sitting on songs for years, fighting perfectionism, and learning to let the rough edges live.

Jubs breaks down how “No One, No One” came to life through a one-time studio opportunity with jazz session players (hello city pop / funk energy), and how Shy Friend is translating that sound into an even messier, more chaotic, more fun live show- complete with themes, possible brass section appearances, and a bassist who might literally juggle mid-set.

They also preview what’s coming next: a Snaggletooth deluxe edition, Shy Friend’s first tour (BC and back), fundraising chaos (Rockin’ for Dollars, bake sales, maybe a parka bikini car wash), and a SAIT documentary following the band. Plus: YYC Songwriter Showdown updates, live music accessibility, earplugs, and a few truly unhinged grounding techniques.

🎶 Songs of the Week:
Jolene Marie – “Honey”
Miarlequin – “Perpetual Notion”
Astrocaster – “Picture”

S'MAC TALK: Fiddlin' Around with Catherine Robertson 15 janv. 202600:47:32

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 15: Fiddlin' Around with Catherine Robertson
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
♻️ Community Partner: Chop Value YYC

This week, Seth and Mac sit down with Catherine Robertson, a fiddle player, violinist, and luthier who’s been immersed in music since she was three years old. Catherine breaks down the real difference between “violin” and “fiddle” (hint: it’s not the instrument), how she moved from classical training into traditional music, and why chasing perfection can drain the joy from playing if you’re not careful.

They dig into her path from early gigs and music store life into full-time work with artists, touring, and instrument repair, including how being a luthier has saved the day on the road more than once. There’s lots of love for Alberta’s music community, her long-running connection with Ryan Lindsay, and what it’s like to move in and out of projects while keeping relationships intact.

And because it’s S'MAC Talk, the conversation takes a hard left into small-town road stops, A&W coffee club culture, and the internet-famous apple reviews, including the great Red Delicious debate. Plus, a perfectly chaotic tour story involving two identical SUVs, the Premier’s security team, and one very unlucky band member opening the wrong door.

🎶 Songs of the Week:
Jade Elephant – “Listen to the Beatles”
Jessie Dans - "Summer 2016"
Ryan Lindsay – “Three Long Hauls” (unreleased)

S'MAC TALK: Taking The Plunge with Justin Kudding09 janv. 202600:54:04

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 14: Taking The Plunge
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
💛 Title Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation
♻️ Segment Sponsor: Chop Value YYC

Seth and Mackenzie are back in the studio for Episode 14 with Calgary musician, producer, and Plunge Audio partner Justin Kudding. After a laid-back (and slightly forced) holiday reset, the crew dives into Justin’s journey from junior high bass assignment to touring professionally, winning JUNO and CCMA recognition, and eventually stepping into entrepreneurship through custom in-ear monitors.

Justin breaks down how Plunge Audio grew from a tinkering side-hustle into a thriving company, why he’d rather be a Chief In-Ear Officer than a CEO, and what it’s like balancing a life in music with building a scalable business. They also talk bass inspirations from Flea to John Paul Jones, the realities of chasing a unique “lane” in the industry, and one of the most stressful live performance moments imaginable: learning a brand-new Bebe Rexha arrangement hours before going on national live TV.

The conversation wraps with a look ahead to 2026 goals, giving back to the music community through flexible creative-friendly work, and Plunge Audio’s support of the YYC Songwriter Showdown — including gifting in-ear monitors to the Elite 8 and Justin joining the judging panel.

🎶 Songs of the Week (Chop Value YYC):
Justine Vandergrift – “Stay”
Veronica Raine – “August”
Kaia Gamble – “Photographs”

S'MAC TALK: King of Monday Nights with Duddy10 déc. 202500:48:36

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 13: King of Monday Nights With DuddyPowered by Blue Willow Entertainment🏡 Title Sponsor: F1 Realty – Family First Realty with Dave Rogers💛 Episode Sponsor: Happy Ending Divorce and Separation

This week, Seth and Mac sit down with Jeff “Duddy” Dudder, host of The Deets With Duddy and self-proclaimed king of Monday nights. From late-night TV inspirations to building a full talk-show style set in his house, Duddy walks through how a simple idea to vlog with his son turned into one of Calgary’s most eclectic interview shows.

They dig into his journey from the bar and restaurant world into home sales and podcasting, what he’s learned from talking with artists, actors, entrepreneurs and community leaders, and how a Calgary Arts Development grant is helping him take the show live on stage.

The trio also dive into Calgary’s exploding music scene, the power of highlighting local charities and mental health work, and the realities of editing until 2 a.m. There’s plenty of side quests too: being recognized with and without the signature glasses, Christmas movies and alarm tones, Dave Chappelle at the ‘Dome, sports vs. theatre, and why everyone seems to know everyone in this city’s arts community.

🎶 Songs of the Week:
Kate Reed – “Christmas Stay With Us”
Carter Felker – “Nothing But Net”
Shy Friend – “Freaky Nightmare”

👕 Merch Partner: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?♻️ Community Partner: Chop Value YYC

S'MAC TALK: The World of Micah Sage01 déc. 202500:46:37

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 12: The World of Micah Sage
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🏡 Title Sponsor: F1 Realty – Family First Realty (Dave Rogers)
👕 Music Support: Chop Value YYC + Rapid Artist Merch

This week, Seth & Mac sit down with rising Calgary pop artist Micah Sage for a conversation filled with creativity, honesty, and heart. Fresh off her EP release show and gearing up for the arrival of GIRLFRIEND, Micah dives into her artistic evolution, why this project feels like a fully imagined world, and how she blends pop, ballads, storytelling, and pure emotion into one cohesive artistic identity.

Micah opens up about her writing process (including spontaneous 48-hour songwriting trips to Edmonton), the joy of embracing pop unapologetically, and the importance of trusting your path as an emerging artist. They explore personal growth, navigating uncertainty, and why leaning into silliness, satire, and character is shaping her new sound.

The trio also revisit Micah’s journey from open mics to festival stages, the first time she met Seth and did a podcast in a field under a tent, and the magic of Calgary’s fast-rising pop scene. Plus: a heart-melting moment where Mac shares how much Micah’s music means to her daughter.

🎶 Songs of the Week:
• Jennie Harluk – Georgia
• Kailee Duggan – Lola
• Robert Adam – Moonlight Magic, Bailing Twine, Diane
• The Marias – Nobody Knows / Sienna (bonus picks)

A warm, inspiring, joy-filled episode with one of Calgary’s brightest young artists.

S'MAC TALK: A Not So Silent Night with Lyle Peterman 25 nov. 202500:58:24

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 11: Not So Silent Calgary with Lyle Peterman

This week, Seth and Mac sit down with Lyle Peterman – in-arena voice of the Calgary Wranglers, longtime Calgary Canucks game ops lead, realtor, and co-founder of A Not So Silent Night / A Not So Silent Summer – to explore where sports, community, and live music collide.

Lyle shares his path from junior hockey rinks to the Saddledome, what makes the AHL experience so special, and how Calgary can truly claim “music city” status. The crew dives into his work with Not In My City and the fight against human trafficking, the impact of intentional live-music fundraising, and why simply choosing venues with live music can change a scene.

They also chat about supporting local artists, Sundays with Blue Willow at Canucks games, and wrap with Songs of the Week featuring Amy Nelson, Justine Vandergrift, Micah Sage & Dempsey Bolton, Bon Iver, and Mariah Stokes.

S'MAC TALK: Plumbing the Music Biz: Distribution, Royalties & Reality w/ Jasen Samford11 nov. 202501:04:24

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 10: Streams, Splits & Sanity with Jasen Samford
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🏡 Title Sponsor: David Rogers – F1 Family First Realty
👕 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?

This week, Seth and Mac sit down with Jasen Samford, former Director of Education and Artist Relations at DistroKid, for a deep dive into the world of music distribution, royalties, and metadata — or, as Jasen calls it, “the plumbing that keeps your music flowing.”

From building DistroKid in its early days to helping thousands of artists make sense of their releases, Jasen shares hard-earned insight on how to protect your catalog, get paid cleanly, and avoid the fraud flags that can take down even legitimate songs.

The conversation spans Seattle’s evolving music scene, the challenges of venue closures, the rise of AI and “ghost artists,” and how independent creators can build sustainable careers in a noisy digital world. Plus, a look at Jasen’s annual Last Waltz benefit concert — a 40-artist tribute raising funds for Northwest Harvest.

🎶 Songs of the Week: Marcus Trummer – “Holding Out For You”, The Great Fuss – “Overdue”, Jeff Rosenstock – “Worry”

S'MAC TALK: Un-Conundruming Things - Kue Varo on Art, Community & Being Real01 nov. 202501:09:10

🎧 S’MAC TALK – Episode 9: Un-Conundrum Things with Kue Varo
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🏡 Title Sponsor: David Rogers – F1 Family First Realty👕 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?

This week, Seth and Mac dive deep with Kue Varo, Calgary’s art-rock powerhouse, for a conversation that blends music, mindfulness, and meaning.

From her YYC Music Award-winning year and performances at Germany’s Reeperbahn Festival to reflections on inner wisdom, advice culture, and creative authenticity, Kue brings insight and humour in equal measure. The trio explore why “internet time” makes the 2000s feel like yesterday, how to stay grounded in a digital world, and what it means to create honest art that connects.

They also touch on Calgary’s vibrant multi-genre scene, Lilo Music Fest, and the power of letters, community, and kindness in the creative process.

🎶 Songs of the Week: Emmett Jerome – “It Ain’t Me,” Ryan Lindsay – “If Your Heart Ain’t In It,” plus new releases from Kue’s world.

S'MAC TALK: Heart & Heritage - A Conversation with Ashley Ghostkeeper24 oct. 202500:30:14

S’MAC TALK – Weekend Edition: Heart & Heritage with Ashley Ghostkeeper
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment🏡 Title Sponsor: David Rogers — F1 Family First Realty👕 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?


Fresh off a 16-date tour and newly crowned YYC Music Awards Indigenous Artist of the Year, Ashley Ghostkeeper joins Seth & Mackenzie for a special weekend sit-down about love, lineage, and leveling up.

Ashley opens up about her next chapter: a 90s-country-inspired album (think Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Patty Loveless), steel and fiddle textures, and her first love song. She shares the story behind “Grandpa’s Song”—co-written with Evan Redsky, partially in Cree, and recorded with gospel piano and choir—honoring her family and roots in Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement. We also talk about the CBC x SOCAN Indigenous Music Residency, filming music videos in Texas, and her new fan community Backstage with Ashley.

Plus: mini-memories from U18 AAA hockey (hello, silver at Nationals), why caring about people > rules, and a cozy in-studio performance of “She’s Easy to Love.”

Live performances in this episode:
• “Grandpa’s Song” (unreleased)
• “She’s Easy to Love”

S’MAC TALK: Talk in the Truck with NIK POLI 22 oct. 202501:09:22

S’MAC TALK: Talk in the Truck with NIK POLI

Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

🏡 Title Sponsor: David Rogers – F1 Family First Realty

👕 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?

Lucky Episode #7 brings NIK POLI into the studio for a deep, hilarious, and heartfelt chat about life on the road, songwriting, and what it’s like to play 70+ shows in a year.

Seth, Mackenzie, and NIK break down everything from the Calgary Canucks game performance and Tilly’s anthem debut, to Stampede madness, touring through BC (and sleeping in a Denny’s), and how NIK’s writing process led to heartfelt tracks like “If God Made Me Blind” and “Talkin’ in the Truck.”

They also cover this week in Alberta’s music scene — from Celine at Mahogany to Erika Mae, Molly Ferdinand, and Anna Lewis at Heliopolis, and a packed Friends of Blue Willow night at Banquet. Plus: Shania Twain at Spanky’s, Blue Jays wins, hockey hot takes, and a live in-studio performance you’ll want to replay.

🎙️ Country, community, and chaos — that’s S’MAC Talk.

S’MAC TALK: Nobody’s Fool with Erika Mae15 oct. 202500:52:04

S’MAC Talk – Episode 6
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🏡 Title Sponsor: David Rogers – F1 Family First Realty
👕 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?

This week, Seth and Mackenzie welcome Erika Mae — Calgary-based country-pop artist — for a fun and heartfelt conversation about life as an emerging musician, her Nashville songwriting journey, and releasing her debut single “Nobody’s Fool.”

The crew also dives into another jam-packed week in Alberta’s music scene — from Meera Sylvain at Semantics Café to Jaden Riley’s sold-out release party at The Attic, and an unforgettable night at The Palomino featuring The Ashley Hundred, St. Arnaud, and Daughter Dentist. Plus, a few late-night Wendy’s runs and conspiracy tangents (yes, Avril Lavigne came up).

Erika shares what it was like working with Grammy-nominated producer Matt Braun-Louis in Nashville, her dream collabs with Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves, and Brandi Carlile, and plays a stunning live performance of “Nobody’s Fool” and her upcoming single “Back When It Mattered.”

🎸 Music, storytelling, and a little chaos — just how we like it.

S’MAC Talk Gets Real with Jessie Dans + Taylor Swift Release Review, BWE Week in Review & Naked Art!07 oct. 202500:59:08

S’MAC Talk – Episode 5
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🎙️ Title Sponsor: David Rogers – F1 Family First Realty
🎶 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?

This week, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Calgary artist Jessie Dans for an open and inspiring conversation about the hustle, heart, and hard truths behind pursuing music as a career. Jessie shares how she’s balancing three jobs while building her dream, recording in L.A., and finding her artistic identity through storytelling and collaboration.

From her vulnerable single “Sleeping Alone” to her empowering mindset that “nobody else wants your dream to come true,” Jessie brings honesty, humor, and wisdom to the mic.

Seth and Mackenzie also recap another action-packed week across Alberta’s live music scene — from Lewis Cardinal’s heartfelt Casa Musica show and Everly’s sold-out night at Semantics, to NIK POLI’s full-band takeover in Edmonton during CFR weekend. Plus, some laughs, life lessons, Taylor Swift talk, and a surprise art critique you’ll have to hear to believe.

As always, S’MAC Talk keeps the focus on the heartbeat of Calgary — where sports, music, and community come together.

S'MAC TALK: YYC Music Awards & More with Stephanie Hutchinson01 oct. 202501:03:23

S’MAC Talk – Episode 4Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment🎙️ Title Sponsor: David Rogers F1 Family First Realty🎶 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?
This week, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Stephanie Hutchinson to dive into an inspiring conversation about her journey and impact in the music industry. Stephanie recaps the YYC Music Awards, which she leads, shares insights from her role at the National Music Centre, and discusses her experiences as an indie record label founder. She also highlights how music continues to shape stories and foster connections within Calgary’s creative community.

Seth and Mackenzie recapped last week’s shows, including Grace Dafoe’s fundraiser at ChopValue YYC, and dove into what’s coming up this week — including NIK POLI performing with a full band at Banquet Bar in Edmonton as part of this weekend’s CFR festivities.

The episode wraps with Stephanie’s song picks and recommendations, plus Seth & Mackenzie sharing laughs, updates, and their own weekly music highlights.

As always, S’MAC Talk keeps the focus on the heartbeat of Calgary — where sports, music, and community come together.

S'MAC TALK: Talkin' Ice Rockets & YYC Music Feat. Grace Dafoe23 sept. 202500:39:07

S’MAC Talk – Episode 3
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment
🎙️ Title Sponsor: David Rogers F1 Family First Realty
🎶 Music Support: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?
🙌 Shoutouts: ChopValue YYC + special thanks to Rviita for fueling the show with sample drinks (Grace tries her pick, while Seth and Mackenzie test new flavors).

In this episode, Seth and Mackenzie welcome Canadian skeleton athlete Grace Dafoe 🛷 into the studio. Grace shares her 14-year journey in skeleton racing, the serendipitous way she discovered the sport, and how music has become an essential tool for focus and performance.

The crew dives into conversations about:
🎶 Music as motivation in sport and life
🏟️ Creative fundraising and the challenges athletes face
🤝 Why community support is key for both athletes and artists
🎤 Calgary’s vibrant local music scene and upcoming events

Grace caps off the chat with her song picks and recommendations, adding a personal touch to the music-meets-sport theme.

As always, Seth & Mackenzie keep the laughs and banter flowing, while shining a light on the intersection of music, sports, and community.

Intro Song: Higher Ground - Eric John

Middle Song: In Time - Eric John

End Song: Lucky You, Lucky Me - Eric John

S'MAC TALK: Finally Feel Safe feat. Lewis Cardinal17 sept. 202500:44:38

Backstage S’MAC Talk – Episode 2
Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment

🎙️ Title Sponsor: David Rogers F1 Family First Realty🎶 Live Performance presented by: Rapid Artist Merch – Got Merch?
🙌 Shoutouts: ChopValue YYC + special thanks to Rviita for fueling the show with sample drinks (Mackenzie reviews Divine Strawberry, Seth takes on Black Cherry, and Lewis tries Speechless).

In this episode, Seth and Mackenzie kick things off with a recap of last week. Seth shares highlights from his trip to Kelowna for CCMA events, including showcases by NIK POLI and Ryan Lindsay at Red Bird, plus volunteering at the CCMA Waterfront Music Festival. Meanwhile, Mackenzie brings listeners along on her unforgettable Morgan Wallen adventure in Edmonton.

They look ahead to another packed week of live music, featuring shows at Banquet, Heliopolis, and a special release show for Erika Mae at The Attic, among others.

Joining the conversation in-studio is special guest Lewis Cardinal, who talks about his upcoming project and treats listeners to a live performance of Start Again—out September 19th. He closes out the show with his already released track Finally Feel Safe.

Of course, Seth & Mac deliver their weekly song recommendations, share laughs, and keep the banter flowing throughout.

S'MAC TALK: Stylish Like Billie Eilish09 sept. 202500:29:11

Welcome to the debut episode of "Backstage S'MAC Talk" with Seth and Mac, powered by Blue Willow Entertainment. Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of live music, featuring artist showcases, behind-the-scenes insights, and the latest happenings in the music scene. This week, we spotlight the exciting venues and artists making waves, from the heart of Calgary to beyond. Tune in for a mix of humor, music, and the stories that bring it all together. Don't miss out on the rhythm of the backstage!

Trailer - Welcome to S'MAC Talk 08 sept. 202500:02:42

Backstage S’Mac Talk with Seth & Mackenzie takes you behind the curtain of the music world. Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment, this weekly podcast dives into real conversations with artists, industry pros, and community voices shaping the scene. Expect candid stories, laughs, and insights into life on and off the stage — plus recurring guest appearances from Blue Willow artists, sponsors, and live event moments you won’t hear anywhere else.

Whether you’re an artist, fan, or just love great conversations, pull up a seat and join Seth & Mackenzie for an unfiltered look at the music industry, one episode at a time.

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify