What’s the one album or film that changed everything for you?
On The Spark Parade, host Adam Unze sits down with actors, musicians and other cultural icons to explore the music and movies that ignited their creative journeys. Each episode is a deep dive into a single transformative work of art — from cult classics to chart-topping albums — and how it continues to shape their lives and careers.
You’ll hear from artists like Margaret Cho, Maya Hawke, Chris Gethard, Beth Ditto, Bob The Drag Queen, Ella Purnell, Phoenix's Thomas Mars and many more.
If you’re a fan of music, movies, and the people they inspire, this podcast is your backstage pass to the artistic spark that started it all.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What’s the one album or film that changed everything for you?
On The Spark Parade, host Adam Unze sits down with actors, musicians and other cultural icons to explore the music and movies that ignited their creative journeys. Each episode is a deep dive into a single transformative work of art — from cult classics to chart-topping albums — and how it continues to shape their lives and careers.
You’ll hear from artists like Margaret Cho, Maya Hawke, Chris Gethard, Beth Ditto, Bob The Drag Queen, Ella Purnell, Phoenix's Thomas Mars and many more.
If you’re a fan of music, movies, and the people they inspire, this podcast is your backstage pass to the artistic spark that started it all.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join comedian and actor Gianmarco Soresi for a campy, nostalgic journey into his Spark: Spiceworld, the 1997 Spice Girls album and film phenomenon. Gianmarco share memories of first hearing the album in childhood, the theatrical personas of Baby Spice and friends and the explosive pop energy that defined an era.
Gianmarco dives into the group’s dynamic, the album’s enduring charm, and why Spice Girls remain a touchstone of girl power, camp, and 90s pop culture.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join legendary horror drag icons The Boulet Brothers for a campy, queer journey into their Spark: The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Adam and the Boulets share first encounters with the groundbreaking cult film, its impact on their lives, and why it remains a loud, proud anthem for queer joy, radical self-expression, and chosen family.
Swantula takes us back to being a closeted 14-year-old, blown away by Rocky Horror’s uninhibited queerness, campy horror, and radical self-expression that expanded their world overnight. Drac recalls renting the VHS and falling in love with the iconic queer characters that spoke to their gothic, outsider spirit.
We dive into queer representation, midnight screenings, Tim Curry’s unforgettable Frank-N-Furter, and the legendary audience participation that keeps the cult classic alive. The Boulet Brothers break down what makes Rocky Horror a radical anthem of chosen family, joy, and queer celebration — and how it continues to inspire their boundary-pushing drag art and TV series Dragula.
You’ll also hear about The Boulet Brothers’ latest creative projects and why their Rocky Horror Spark lights their queer artistry to this day.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Matt and Trevor of Cheat Codes sit down with Adam Unze to talk about their Spark: the movie Ready Player One.
They share the story of how the film’s immersive virtual reality and flood of pop culture Easter eggs blew their minds and sparked creative inspiration. From parallels between gaming, music and business to navigating the future of AI and virtual worlds, they explore how Ready Player One reflects the community, creativity and boundary-pushing spirit that drives their music career.
If you love EDM, gaming culture, futuristic visions or collaborative creativity, this episode is your gateway to an inspiring conversation.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low joins Adam to share the story of his Spark: Jimmy Eat World’s Futures.
Alex takes us back to his teenage years in Baltimore, discovering Futures on a chance trip to the record store and instantly connecting with the album’s emotional depth, powerful rock energy and flawless sequencing. From the freedom of those first windows-down drives to how Gil Norton’s masterful production revealed the band’s most refined work, Alex explains why Futures remains a peak creative moment in Jimmy Eat World’s career — and a defining influence on his own songwriting.
We dive into nostalgia, label pressure, creative integrity and how artists navigate expectations after a major breakthrough. Alex breaks down the peaks, valleys and sequencing magic that make Futures endlessly replayable, plus why it’s the perfect soundtrack for a sunset drive.
You’ll also hear about All Time Low’s upcoming album Everyone’s Talking! out October 17, 2025, and why fans should be excited for a fresh batch of anthems from one of pop-punk’s most beloved bands.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pop singer-songwriter Maggie Lindemann joins Adam to share how Lana Del Rey’s landmark album Born to Die sparked her creative journey. Maggie opens up about falling in love with Lana’s cinematic world, relatable storytelling and signature Old Hollywood-meets-Tumblr vibe—and explains how that influence shaped her own music.
In this episode:
About Maggie Lindemann:
A Dallas-raised, LA-based artist best known for her viral hit “Pretty Girl,” Maggie is praised for her raw lyrics, pop-punk attitude and boundary-pushing style. With over 1.6 billion streams and projects like Suckerpunch, she’s carving a bold new lane for Gen-Z pop.
About Born To Die:
Lana Del Rey’s Born to Die (2012) fused cinematic pop, hip-hop and nostalgia, spawning hits like “Video Games” and “Blue Jeans.” The album redefined pop stardom, charted for over 500 weeks and continues to influence a generation.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Grammy-winning country singer-songwriter Cam joins Adam for an intimate conversation about her Spark: the Indigo Girls’ acclaimed album All That We Let In.
Cam explores her journey from discovering the Indigo Girls at choir camp, to wearing out her copy of the album, to becoming friends and collaborators with Emily Saliers herself. The episode delves into the ways this folk-rock classic continues to shape Cam’s songwriting, activism and sense of community in country music and beyond.
Episode Highlights
About Cam:
Cam is a Grammy-winning, genre-bending country singer-songwriter known for her emotionally charged storytelling and acclaimed hits like “Burning House,” “Diane,” and “Redwood Tree.” She is a celebrated solo artist, songwriter for stars like Beyoncé and Sam Smith, a global touring act, and a passionate advocate for diversity in music. Cam won a Grammy in 2024 for her contributions to Beyoncé’s album "Cowboy Carter," continuing her legacy as a voice for inclusion and innovation.
About Indigo Girls & All That We Let In:
The Indigo Girls’ 2004 album All That We Let In is celebrated for its stunning harmonies, personal lyricism, and blend of folk, country, and rock influences. The album showcases the duo’s enduring commitment to activism, storytelling, and musical risk-taking, featuring standout tracks like “Perfect World,” “Dairy Queen,” and the beloved title track.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Award-winning comedian, writer, and actress Chanel Ali joins host Adam to talk about her Spark—Alan Parker’s 1980 musical drama Fame. Chanel discusses how the film shaped her creative journey, from childhood dreams of performing to the realities of making it as an artist in New York City. The conversation covers ambition, life lessons, arts education, and what it takes to chase success both on stage and off.
Episode Highlights:
Quick Chanel Ali Facts:
Chanel Ali is a stand-up comedian, writer, and actress based in New York City. She was named one of Deadline’s 15 Comedians to Watch in 2025 after the breakout success of her one-woman show Relative Stranger, which premiered at the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and toured internationally. Chanel’s credits include MTV’s Girl Code, TruTV’s Laff Mobb’s Laff Tracks, Starz’s Night Train with Wyatt Cenac, Netflix’s Dash & Lily, Comedy Central’s Taking the Stage and Speak Up, and Food Network’s Food Debate!. See Chanel live at Soho Playhouse, September 17–28.
Quick Fame Facts:
Fame (1980) is a musical drama directed by Alan Parker. The movie follows a group of students at New York City’s High School of Performing Arts and chronicles their struggles and triumphs. Fame won Academy Awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score, and inspired a TV series, stage musical, and global performing arts movement.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
UK pop sensation Mimi Webb chats with Adam about her Spark: the timeless romantic comedy How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Mimi reveals how the film’s witty banter, unexpected twists, and real emotional moments shaped her love of rom-coms—and inspired her own songwriting, including her new track “Romcom.”
Episode Highlights:
Quick Mimi Webb Facts:
Mimi Webb is a multi-platinum British singer-songwriter, known for her powerhouse vocals and deeply personal lyrics. After global success with singles like “Good Without” and “House on Fire,” she’s back with her sophomore album Confessions, dropping September 12th. Mimi has earned BRIT Award and Ivor Novello nominations, and stands out for her honest storytelling and captivating live performances.
Quick Movie Facts:
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) is a beloved rom-com directed by Donald Petrie. Magazine writer Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) and ad exec Ben Barry (Matthew McConaughey) face off in a hilarious battle of wills—uncovering love in all its unpredictable glory. Set against glamorous NYC backgrounds with iconic scenes (that yellow dress!), the film remains a must-watch for romantic comedy fans worldwide.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Australian music sensation G Flip sits down with Adam to explore the surprising source of their creative spark: Pixar’s beloved animated film Cars. G Flip shares how watching Cars with their dad became a powerful family tradition, why Lightning McQueen’s journey resonated so deeply, and how Pixar’s emotional storytelling helped shape their identity—both as an artist and as a person.
Episode Highlights:
About G Flip:
G Flip is an award-winning, non-binary singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Melbourne. Known for their energetic performances and heartfelt anthems, they’ve built a global fanbase and continue to break ground for LGBTQ+ voices in pop and alternative music.
About Cars:
Pixar’s Cars follows racecar Lightning McQueen as he finds friendship, love, and purpose in the small town of Radiator Springs. With stunning animation and memorable characters, Cars is an emotional ride for audiences of all ages.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter grandson joins Adam to explore his musical spark: Rage Against the Machine’s legendary album The Battle of Los Angeles. Grandson shares how this politically charged, genre-blending rock album influenced his journey from hip-hop-loving Canadian teen to international hitmaker—breaking down the record’s impact on his identity, artistry, and activism.
Grandson is a boundary-pushing artist and activist, known for his fusion of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. His breakthrough singles “Blood // Water” and “Dirty” turned him into a global sensation, and his bold lyricism has fueled collaborations with Tom Morello, Travis Barker, and other icons. Grandson’s records and electrifying live shows tackle urgent themes—from political upheaval to mental health—embodying the kind of social conviction that Rage Against the Machine pioneered. This tone is especially prevalent on his third album Inertia.
Released in 1999, The Battle of Los Angeles is Rage Against the Machine’s Grammy-winning third studio album. Its incendiary lyrics, innovative genre mashups, and relentless energy cemented Rage’s legacy as both musical and political disruptors. Featuring classics like “Guerrilla Radio,” “Calm Like A Bomb,” and “Testify,” the album remains a staple of protest, self-expression, and musical rebellion.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Acclaimed pop songwriter and artist Bonnie McKee joins Adam to dive into her spark: the cult comedy classic Wayne’s World. Bonnie shares how the film’s humor, music, and fiercely independent spirit shaped her creative outlook—and why its soundtrack and lo-fi, DIY energy still fuel her work today.
Bonnie McKee is a gold-certified pop artist, legendary queer songwriter, and hitmaker behind ten #1 singles—including “Roar,” “California Gurls,” and “Teenage Dream” for Katy Perry, as well as chart-toppers for Britney Spears, Cher, Christina Aguilera, Taio Cruz, Ke$ha, and more. Her latest solo LP, praised by Variety, Rolling Stone, and People, showcases her signature blend of nostalgia, hooks, and bold storytelling. Bonnie is currently on tour—grab tickets and experience her high-energy live show!
Directed by Penelope Spheeris and released in 1992, Wayne’s World stars Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as rock-loving cable access hosts Wayne and Garth. The film became a pop culture sensation thanks to its iconic catchphrases, hilarious MTV-inspired visuals, and a soundtrack that catapulted Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” back into the charts. A timeless ode to music fandom, authenticity, and the power of independent creators, it remains a must-see comedy for every generation.
Keywords: Bonnie McKee, Wayne’s World, pop songwriter, movie soundtrack, 90s comedy, MTV aesthetic, Bohemian Rhapsody, Penelope Spheeris, Katy Perry, podcast, music inspiration, music podcast, comedy film
Press play for a nostalgia-packed, musically inspired ride with one of pop’s boldest voices!
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Adam sits down with rising country star William Beckmann to talk all about his spark: Robert Rodriguez’s iconic action film Desperado. William shares how seeing Desperado—filmed right in his hometown of Acuña, Mexico—had a massive impact on his music, style, and creative vision.
William Beckmann is taking the country world by storm with his deep, timeless baritone and a modern twist on classic country storytelling. Raised in Del Rio, Texas, William blends American country, classic rock, and traditional mariachi influences into songs full of heart, nostalgia, and border-town swagger. His debut major label album Whiskey Lies & Alibis is out now on Warner Music Nashville, and he’s hitting the road for over 100 shows a year.
Directed by Robert Rodriguez and released in 1995, Desperado stars Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek in a stylish, high-octane action movie that cemented Rodriguez’s signature look and established new standards for creative, low-budget filmmaking. Part of the director’s “Mexico Trilogy,” the film blends western drama, explosive action, and unforgettable style—making it a cult favorite for movie fans everywhere.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fitz, frontman of chart-topping indie soul-pop group Fitz and The Tantrums, reveals how Jeff Buckley’s iconic album Grace set him on his journey to finding his authentic voice as an artist and inspired a whole new approach to singing, songwriting, and performance.
Fitz and The Tantrums is an indie pop/soul band known for their energetic performances and catchy hits like “HandClap” and “Out of My League.” With a career spanning over 15 years and a reputation for blending throwback influences with a modern edge, the band continues to evolve with each release.
Grace, Jeff Buckley’s only complete studio album, was released in 1994 and is recognized as one of the most influential albums of the ’90s. Featuring Buckley’s haunting vocals and masterful songwriting, it spawned the now-iconic cover of “Hallelujah.” The album’s lasting impact is felt across indie, rock, and pop music worldwide.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Matt Weedon from TORS joins Adam for a lively, heartfelt chat about the classic musical comedy The Blues Brothers. Find out why this wild, joyous movie was a defining moment in Matt’s creative journey and how its blend of music and chaos still shapes his songwriting—and TORS’s energetic live shows—today.
TORS are a British indie folk trio from Devon, known for their harmonies, big hooks, and live shows bursting with joy and singalongs. Recently signed to Glassnote Records, their new EP Songs From The Road Vol. 1 drops July 24th, and they kick off a major world tour this August.
Directed by John Landis and released in 1980, The Blues Brothers stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues, two brothers on a musical “mission from God.” Packed with musical legends like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and James Brown, and featuring unforgettable car chases and comedy, the film is a cult classic loved for its unfiltered fun, iconic soundtrack, and celebration of blues and soul music.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Activist, model, and writer Munroe Bergdorf sits down with Adam to talk about her spark: the cult classic queer comedy But I’m a Cheerleader. Hear Munroe’s personal story discovering the film, why it remains a game-changer for queer representation, and how its fearless humor and camp style shaped her path as a trailblazer.
Munroe Bergdorf is a globally recognized writer, model, broadcaster, and LGBTQIA+ activist. She’s British Vogue’s contributing editor, an award-winning author, and the star of LOVE & RAGE: MUNROE BERGDORF, the brand-new documentary telling her own story and the fight for trans visibility. Her second book, Talk To Me, is out now.
Released in 1999 and directed by Jamie Babbit, But I’m a Cheerleader is a groundbreaking queer comedy that follows Megan (Natasha Lyonne) as she’s sent to a conversion therapy camp. Its pastel sets, absurdist humor, and focus on authentic queer joy have made it one of the most beloved LGBTQIA+ movies of all time.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ready for a trip down music memory lane? On this episode, Adam hangs out with Katie and Jules from The Ting Tings to talk all about the album that shaped their sound: Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms.
What’s Inside
About The Ting Tings
The Ting Tings are a UK indie pop duo known for their massive hits like “That’s Not My Name” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” Their music is packed with catchy hooks, bold energy, and a love for mixing genres. Their latest record is out now and brings a fresh twist to the classic sounds that inspired them. They're new album Home is out now.
About Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms
Released in 1985, Brothers in Arms is one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring hits like “Money for Nothing,” “Walk of Life,” and the epic title track. The album blends rock, pop, and a little bit of everything else, earning multiple Grammy Awards and a legendary spot in music history.
Why Listen?
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Singer-songwriter Lauren Spencer Smith joins Adam to talk about her biggest musical inspiration: Adele’s breakthrough album, 21. Lauren shares how hearing “Rolling in the Deep” as a kid changed everything for her, why Adele’s powerhouse vocals and honest songwriting became her comfort zone and how 21 shaped her own journey as an artist.
Lauren opens up about singing Adele songs at every competition, learning every vocal nuance and how Adele’s ability to blend genres and emotions inspired her to find her own voice. Adam and Lauren also discuss the impact of 21’s massive hits—like “Someone Like You,” “Rumour Has It” and “Turning Tables”—and what makes the album a timeless classic for songwriters and fans alike.
About Lauren Spencer Smith:
Lauren is a chart-topping singer-songwriter known for her raw vocals and relatable lyrics. She first gained major attention as an American Idol finalist and has since built a global fanbase with her viral singles and debut album. Lauren's new album The Art Of Being A Mess is out now!
About Adele’s 21:
Released in 2011, Adele’s 21 is one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century, featuring hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” The album blends soul, pop, blues, and country influences, earning multiple Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. 21 is praised for its emotional depth, unforgettable melodies, and Adele’s stunning vocal performances.
In this episode:
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Comedian and impressionist Matt Friend joins Adam to talk about the movie that sparked his comedy journey: Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. In this episode, Matt and Adam dive deep into the entire Austin Powers franchise, unpacking the iconic characters, endlessly quotable gags, and the unique comedic genius of Mike Myers.
Matt shares how watching Austin Powers as a four-year-old completely changed his life, inspiring him to start mimicking voices and setting him on a path to becoming one of the most exciting young comedians today. From his early days obsessing over DVDs and Blockbuster runs to his viral celebrity impressions and appearances on The Howard Stern Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Simpsons, and Family Guy, Matt reflects on how the Austin Powers films shaped his love of character-driven, physical, and absurdist comedy.
About Matt Friend:
Matt Friend is a comedian, actor, and impressionist with over two million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. He’s known for his spot-on celebrity impressions (over 250 in his repertoire!), viral comedy interviews, and performances at major events like the Netflix Is A Joke Festival and the White House Correspondents Dinner. Matt has voiced characters for The Simpsons and Family Guy.
About The Spy Who Shagged Me :
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me is the second film in the Austin Powers franchise, released in 1999 and directed by Jay Roach. The film stars Mike Myers in multiple roles—Austin Powers, Dr. Evil, and Fat Bastard—and features Heather Graham, Michael York, Rob Lowe, and Seth Green. The story follows Dr. Evil as he travels back to the 1960s to steal Austin’s mojo, leading to outrageous adventures, time travel hijinks, and a parade of unforgettable characters. The Spy Who Shagged Me became a box office hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and introduced fan favorites like Mini-Me and Fat Bastard. Its mix of slapstick, innuendo, and pop culture parody cemented its status as a comedy classic.
In this episode:
Keywords:
Matt Friend, Austin Powers, The Spy Who Shagged Me, Mike Myers, comedy podcast, celebrity impressions, Adam Unze, The Spark Parade, viral comedian, Blockbuster nostalgia, Netflix Is A Joke Festival, The Simpsons, Family Guy, pop culture, comedy movies, 90s movies, cult classics, Mini-Me, Fat Bastard, Dr. Evil, Heather Graham, Michael York, Seth Green, Rob Lowe, Jay Roach, parody, slapstick, character comedy
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The second and final part of Adam's recap of the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
Follow us on social media:
Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade
Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!
For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The Spark Parade, host Adam Unze (@sparkparade) sits down with Kyle Gordon, the New York-based comedian, actor, musician, songwriter, and improviser who’s taken the internet by storm. With over 6 million followers and a billion views across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and more, Kyle’s unique characters and pitch-perfect musical parodies—like his viral hit “Planet of the Bass”—have made him a household name and landed him on Variety’s 2023 “New Power” List.
Kyle shares his comedic origin story, from watching A Mighty Wind with his family to how Christopher Guest’s films shaped his sense of humor and approach to improv. Adam and Kyle break down what makes Guest’s mockumentaries so special: the improvisational brilliance of the ensemble cast, the meticulous character work, and the decades-long commitment to the bit that brings these worlds to life. They also discuss the legacy of A Mighty Wind, its cult status, and why its hyper-specific comedy resonates so deeply with fans and performers alike.
And then Adam gives his first of two recaps of his picks from the Tribeca Film Festival!
Key topics in this episode:
About Kyle Gordon:
Kyle is a multi-talented performer known for his innovative online comedy, musical parodies, and standout characters. His 2023 hit “Planet of the Bass” was named Song of the Summer by major outlets. He’s performed with the Jonas Brothers, appeared on The Simpsons, Comedy Central, Adult Swim, and Fortnite, and his debut album debuted in the Billboard Comedy Albums top 10.
About A Mighty Wind:
A Mighty Wind (2003) is Christopher Guest’s loving send-up of the folk music world, featuring an all-star ensemble cast improvising their way through a tribute concert reunion. The film’s razor-sharp satire and affection for its subject have earned it a devoted cult following.
Listen for:
Keywords:
Kyle Gordon, The Spark Parade, Adam Unze, A Mighty Wind, Christopher Guest, comedy podcast, improvisation, musical comedy, viral comedian, Planet of the Bass, comedy ensemble, character work, Billboard Comedy Albums, mockumentary, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, folk music, cult comedy, podcast interview
The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.
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For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com
Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.