What keeps a musician going when the stage lights go down?
When a tour falls through, a band breaks up, or the industry shifts yet again?
This week, I sat down with Ryan Smith — someone who’s found ways to keep creating through all of it. You might know him as the guitarist for Soul Asylum, frontman of The Melismatics, one-half of Ryan and Pony, or the newest member of Ultrabomb (alongside Hüsker Dü’s Greg Norton and Social Distortion’s Derek O’Brien).
But this conversation isn’t just a career recap. It’s a look at what fuels longevity — and how Ryan keeps finding new creative gears to shift into. From his early DIY days to pandemic-era solo recording sessions, from sideman roles to teaching music on his YouTube channel (Secret Chord), Ryan's story is full of insight for anyone trying to navigate a life in music.
Whether you're building your first project or reinventing yourself for the tenth time, this one’s for you.
What we cover:
In a world that keeps changing, the drive to create might be the only constant. Let this episode recharge yours.
Full Transcript and Show Notes
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Featured Song:
"Start Making Sense" by Ryan and Pony
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This podcast is made possible by the hard work, expertise, and commitment of my team: Max Greene and Joey Biehn. I'm forever grateful. And thank YOU, for listening.
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