Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast that dives deep into the healing power of music, mental‑health battles, and the stories behind the riffs. In today’s episode we sit down with CJ Pierce, co‑founder and guitarist of Johnny Pool (the band you’ve heard on “Madness,” “Tearaway,” and countless sold‑out arena shows).

CJ shares what life on the road looks like after COVID—a whirlwind UK tour with 13 dates, a new record slated for release by year‑end, and the relentless grind of writing, recording, and performing while juggling a daytime trade in electrical work. He explains the evolution of the track “Tearaway” — how its meaning has shifted for him over 25 years — and gives us the inside scoop on the iconic opening riff (phaser‑flanger mash‑up, Digitech 2101, and a spontaneous jam with Dave Williams).

We also explore how Johnny Pool’s music has become a lifeline for fans facing depression, with songs like “37 Stitches” and “In Memory Of” resonating on a deeply personal level. CJ talks about the band’s charitable side, from Toys‑for‑Tots shows to USO performances, and reveals his favorite gear—from vintage BC Rich guitars and Marshall stacks to the hidden‑treasure signature pedals that stay safely at home.

Whether you’re a metalhead craving a fresh riff, a listener seeking comfort in heavy music, or just curious about the behind‑the‑scenes hustle of a touring act, this episode delivers a candid, electrifying look at how music speaks when words fall short. Grab your headphones, crank the volume, and get ready to feel the pulse of Johnny Pool’s journey.

Welcome back to The When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we turn the volume up on the power of music to lift us out of the darkness. In today’s episode, host James Cox sits down with the unstoppable Mz. Coxx —singer, songwriter, actress, and all‑around creative force—just a year after their last chat.

From the buzz around her breakout single “Headboard” (feat. Lil Durks) to a brand‑new EP dropping on 11/11, we dive into her whirlwind year of global touring, a looming movie role, and the next chapter of her Panamanian‑Georgia‑infused sound. Mz. Coxx opens up about the emotions she’s yet to explore in her music—sadness, love, and raw vulnerability—while sharing the quirky rituals that shape her studio sessions (candlelight, tequila, and occasional party vibes).

We also get the low‑down on her upcoming cruise gigs, favorite influences (Missy Elliott, Usher, Lil’ Kim, Chris Brown), and the one song that still moves her to the core—Usher’s “Superstar.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her sound, this conversation is a reminder that when words fail, music always speaks.

Stay tuned, hit play, and let the healing begin. 🎧✨

In today’s episode we sit down with award‑winning author Heather Snodgrass, creator of the genre‑bending novel A Love Letter to Reading. Heather blends thriller, identity, and transformation with a meticulously curated playlist that runs 99 hours long—every chapter is anchored to a song, a TV theme, or even a wrestling reference.

We’ll hear how the book started as a screenplay, morphed into a full‑blown novel, and why the Leon Bridges track “River” is the story’s heartbeat. Heather shares her creative ritual—listening to everything from the Beatles to Taylor Swift, avoiding jazz and country, and letting lyrical storytelling guide her prose. She also reveals the quirky details that make her world unique: a pediatric oncology‑nurse‑by‑day, assassin‑by‑night protagonist named Mariana “Scorpion” Rossi; a love for Final Fantasy XIV!

We’ll dive into the playlists that live inside the book, discuss how music and reading evoke different emotions, and ask Heather the fun, rapid‑fire questions every fan loves—her must‑have desert‑island albums, the live act she’d book for her launch (the Beatles, of course), and the secret song that moves her soul on a deep level.

Whether you’re a writer seeking a soundtrack, a music lover looking for the next great novel‑playlist hybrid, or simply someone who believes “when the words fail, music speaks,” this episode has something for you.

Grab your headphones, press play, and let the conversation between narrative and melody begin.

*Welcome back to The When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we explore how music heals, connects, and changes lives. In this episode we sit down with Joshua  Gale, front‑man of the family‑filled, faith‑driven band Gale Bird. After a magical outdoor show at Charleston’s historic Poor House, Josh and host James dive deep into the stories behind the songs that keep their family and fans moving forward.

We’ll hear:

• The origin of the “Gale Bird” nickname and the tight‑knit friendship with guitarist/producer Sean, the band’s “go‑with‑the‑flow” rhythm section, and the secret musical hook that ends every “Roses” track.
• How the band balances touring, family life, and a full‑time ministry while staying true to a label that actually cares.
• The raw, personal moments that inspired songs like **“Roses,” “My Lines,” and the worship‑filled “Your Presence,” and why those tracks are written first for the band’s own healing before they reach listeners.
• A candid look at the modern music business—streaming vs. merch, the power of live‑show etiquette, and why the band refuses to let phones dominate the moment.
• A quick “Mount‑Rushmore” of the band’s current musical heroes—from the raw energy of Need to Breathe to the storytelling of Chris Stapleton—plus a surprise shout‑out to fans and a reminder to “keep the six‑week rhythm” in life.

Whether you’re a musician, a parent, or just looking for a song that speaks straight to the soul, this episode gives you a front‑row seat to the love, faith, and humor that fuels Gale Bird’s music. Press play, breathe, and let the music speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks” – the podcast that harnesses the healing power of song to combat depression, anxiety, and everyday heartbreak.



In today’s episode we sit down with the multitalented Mark Firehammer—author of the genre‑blending novel The Echo and The Voice, creator of the wellness system Feelness, and a seasoned songwriter whose career spans from Florida coffee‑houses in the ‘90s to AI‑driven studios today.

Mark shares the wild road‑trip story of his early touring days, the unexpected love affair he’s had with the legendary Cronut, and the pivotal moment when he realized his next album would have to be built without a band. We dive deep into his groundbreaking Artist‑Imagined series, a quartet of AI‑crafted albums—Heartlands (country), Heartthrob (dance), Heartstrings (alternative) and Heartbeats (rock)—and explore how he trains machines to sing in the voices of imagined artists while preserving his own lived experiences.

Along the way, we touch on:

• The rise and challenges of independent musicians in the streaming era
• The moral and creative debates surrounding AI‑generated music and Spotify’s new disclosure rules
• How Mark’s nonprofit aims to turn music, theater, film, and visual art into a collaborative network centered on human connection
• Favorite childhood influences—from Cat Stevens and James Taylor to the awe‑inspiring voice of Freddie Mercury—and the songs that still move him to tears

Whether you’re a songwriter stuck in a creative rut, a fan of cutting‑edge tech, or simply someone looking for a musical pick‑me‑up, this conversation offers a blend of nostalgia, practical insight, and forward‑looking optimism. Grab your headphones, cue up a fresh track, and let Mark’s story remind you that when words fall short, music always finds a way to speak.

Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks,” the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time.

In this episode, host James Cox—a proud “professional handicapped” broadcaster who knows a thing or two about turning struggle into song—sits down with Krysis, the charismatic front‑man of the newly‑emerging metal‑core collective Under Black Sky.

Together they explore:

• Why music is a lifeline for anyone navigating life’s highs and lows.
• The genre‑spanning influences that shape Krysis' songwriting—from hard‑rock roots to a love of country.
• The immersive world‑building behind Under Black Sky’s mythic lore, complete with prophetic titles like “The Prophet,” “The Executioner,” and “The Redeemer.”
• How the band’s debut concept album, Bad Blood Chapter 1—dropping on October 24th— is more than a collection of songs; it’s a narrative experience, a visual codex, and soon, a limited‑edition crimson‑red vinyl.
• Their strategy for cutting through the streaming noise, fostering fan participation through a Discord‑style “Codex” community, and confronting the harsh realities of the music‑industry pay‑scale (Spotify vs. Apple Music, the value of live shows, etc.).
• The importance of authentic connection—from the stage’s raw energy to the personal stories fans share about how a single lyric can change a life.

Whether you’re a die‑hard metal head, a country‑playlist addict, or simply someone looking for a musical boost, this conversation offers a vivid snapshot of a band determined to turn darkness into light—and invites you to join the saga before it even hits the speakers.

Stay tuned, press play, and let the next chapter of Under Black Sky’s story begin. 🎸✨

Welcome back to the When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, where we dive into the power of music to lift us out of depression, break genre walls and rewrite the rules of the industry.

In today’s episode, host James Andrew Cox sits down with Seattle‑based, multi‑award‑winning singer‑songwriter Lady Miranda—a soulful vocalist who fuses R&B, rock, hip‑hop, and more into a sound that’s unmistakably hers. We’ll hear how she turned childhood poetry into a career that’s as boundary‑defying as it is deeply personal, and why she refuses to follow anyone else’s “songwriting template.”

Beyond the music, Miranda opens up about her late‑life diagnoses of autism and ADHD, sharing how hyper‑focus fuels marathon‑writing sessions while also posing everyday challenges—from stage lighting to studio fatigue. She also spotlights ISSA (the International Society of Artists & Musical Professionals with Disabilities), an organization fighting for a more inclusive music world.

From grunge‑era Seattle roots and favorite bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden, to surprise rap verses tucked into her tracks, Miranda’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and community. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a mental‑health advocate, or simply a fan of genre‑bending music, this conversation will inspire you to let the melody speak where words fall short.

Stay tuned—your next dose of musical inspiration starts now. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast that battles depression one chord at a time. In today’s episode, host James “the professional handicapped” Cox sits down with a remarkable guest whose life reads like a soundtrack of survival—Tony Kessel.

Born in North Dakota, raised in a foster home, and now a full‑time National Guard officer, husband, and father of five, Tony has turned his tumultuous journey into a compelling memoir, "It’s All in the Lyrics". Together, James and Tony unpack how music became Tony’s lifeline—from the first Garth Brooks radio hit that soothed an eight‑year‑old in a foster home, to the heavy‑metal anthems that carried him through combat engineer training, to the faith‑driven Christian rock that guided his post‑military healing.

We’ll hear:

• The raw, honest story of Tony’s childhood trauma and how specific lyrics acted as his personal therapist.
• The way his 22‑year military career reshaped his relationship with sound—because sometimes a rifle’s cadence feels like a drumbeat.
• A deep dive into his “Side A – Matters of the Head” and “Side B – Matters of the Heart” concept, the two‑album project he’s crafting to chronicle the mental and emotional battles he’s faced.
• The songs that would make a rescue playlist for his younger self—Garth Brooks’ Unanswered Prayers, The Dance, and 12 Stones’ “Running Out of Pain.”
• A candid confession about the one track he can no longer listen to, the moment it intersected with a suicide attempt, and why sharing that pain matters for listeners battling their own darkness.

Tony’s story is a vivid reminder that when words fail, music speaks—bridging gaps, offering a voice, and building a community where no one has to fight alone. Whether you’re a veteran, a foster‑care survivor, or simply someone looking for a song that can lift you out of the fog, this conversation is a beacon of hope.

Stay tuned, turn up the volume, and let the healing power of music guide you through today’s episode of Woodward’s Music Speaks

Go to:

https://dualistmedia.com for more info!

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks, the podcast where we explore how melody, rhythm, and lyrics become lifelines in our darkest moments. In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with the enigmatic industrial‑metal duo behind Deadly Apples—vocals‑guitarist Alex Martel and powerhouse drummer Antoine Lamothe.

The conversation roams from the raw energy of playing massive arenas (remember that 80,000‑strong show opening for Ozzy in Mexico?) to the intimate intimacy of cramped clubs, where the band feels the weight of every single fan’s stare. Alex and Antoine break down their genre‑bending sound—dark, heavy, yet surprisingly melodic—explaining why they refuse the “industrial metal” label and how they weave ambient, love‑song moments into a single, unclassifiable vibe.

Listeners will get a behind‑the‑scenes look at touring with legends like Rammstein, Rob Zombie, and Korn, hear the surreal lessons learned on the road, and discover the band’s personal mental‑health playbook: staying fit, skipping substances, and carving out rest amid relentless travel.

We also dive into their upcoming opus Distress, slated for a December 2025 release, and the strategic dance between dropping singles versus unveiling a full‑album narrative in today’s fast‑paced streaming world.

If you’ve ever wondered how a modern metal act balances colossal stage productions with the quiet struggle of anxiety, or how a horror‑film‑loving drummer crafts scores for the screen, this episode has the answers.

Tune in, and let the conversation remind you that when words fall short, the music—and the stories behind it—always speak.

In today’s episode we sit down with visionary filmmaker Wilson Hickman, the writer‑director‑editor‑cinematographer‑drone‑pilot behind the faith‑infused fantasy proof‑of‑concept series “The Lost Healer.” Wilson shares how a Bachelor of Science in Film Production, countless YouTube tutorials, and a whisper of divine nudging converged into a visually stunning, award‑winning pilot that’s now touring the festival circuit.

We’ll dive into his creative workflow—from crafting dialogue‑light scripts that let music and images carry the narrative, to the challenges of editing massive amounts of footage and deciding what stays on the cutting‑room floor. Wilson reveals the story behind that unforgettable opening drone shot, the practical magic of Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, and After Effects, and how his first collaboration with composer Ben Devine shaped the episode’s emotional heartbeat.

Along the way we’ll hear about his journey from teenage novelist to classroom filmmaker, the importance of a solid crew, the role of a certified drone license, and the music that fuels his own spirit—Jeremy Camp’s Deeper Waters and rising artist Natalie Lane.

If you’re a budding filmmaker, indie composer, or anyone who loves fantasy that deepens the spiritual fight between good and evil, stay tuned. We’ll also share how you can support “The Lost Healer,” catch the pilot at thelosthealer.com, and keep the conversation going on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Grab your headphones, press play, and let the story—and the music—speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail – Music Speaks, the show where we explore how melody, rhythm and lyrics become lifelines for anyone battling the ups and downs of life. I’m your host, James Andrew Cox, and today we’re diving deep with the powerhouse rock trio behind Lands Down—guitarist and co‑founder Shaun Lichtenstein and front‑man John Ritchie.

From their early days grinding out shows in Boston to headlining for U.S. troops in Afghanistan, LandsDowne has turned raw, heartfelt songwriting into a conduit for connection—whether it’s a Roomba‑building robotics firm, an NFL broadcast, or a gritty battlefield stage. In this conversation they break down the evolution of the music business, the creative spark behind their albums Blue Collar Revolver and Medicine, the thrill of writing for other artists like Pop Evil, and the gritty reality of life on tour. Most importantly, Sean and John share personal strategies for using music as a mental‑health tool—tips that can help anyone push through depression, anxiety, or that “stuck” feeling.

Stay tuned as we uncover the stories behind their most beloved tracks—“Holding On,” “Four‑Wheeled Freedom,” and the new single set to drop next spring—while getting candid advice on balancing art, business, and everyday life.

Grab your headphones, press play, and let the music speak. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we battle the darkness of depression with the undeniable power of music. I’m your host, James Cox, a self‑declared “professional handicapped” champion of mental‑health advocacy, and today we’ve got a truly inspiring guest who lives the mission we preach.

Joining us is Craig Jamieson—the creative force behind the Canadian pop‑rock outfit Craig Jamison & the Lucky Winmore Band. Craig blends 80’s synth nostalgia, modern hooks, punk‑edge chords, and indie‑rock flair into a sound that’s as eclectic as his influences— from Bon Jovi and Michael Jackson to The Weeknd’s synth‑wave vibes.

In this episode we’ll:

• Dive into Craig’s latest releases—the bright, hook‑laden single “Honey,” the heartfelt follow‑up “Get to You,” and the mantra‑driven anthem “Come Around,” which serves as the theme for his Dance Away Depression charity event.
• Explore his personal journey with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression, and how songwriting became his lifeline—turning depersonalization and chemical‑imbalance battles into lyrical mantras that help listeners “weather the storm.”
• Highlight his partnership with radio‑promo guru Caden Gordon and Big Records, the upcoming “Perfect Timing” track, a forthcoming Christmas EP, and a mysterious, world‑concern‑driven song titled “Doomsday.”
• Spotlight his mental‑health work with the Canadian nonprofit Mind Your Mind and the Dance Away Depression fundraiser, showing how music can raise both awareness and resources for youth battling depression.
• Uncover his creative process, from the 80’s posters that still line his teenage bedroom walls to the way he lets each song’s vibe dictate genre—pop‑punk, synth‑wave, folk, even swing‑jazz.

Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic synths, a songwriter looking for a mental‑health ally, or simply someone who believes “when words fail, music speaks,” this conversation is a reminder that a single chord can connect, move, and heal.

Stay tuned—because after this interview you’ll hear snippets of Craig’s tracks, learn how you can support his charitable events, and get the exact URLs to stream “Honey,” “Get to You,” and “Come Around.”

Let’s turn the volume up and let the music do the talking. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the show that proves that when words fall short, music says it all. In this episode, host James Cox sits down with longtime friend and blue‑grass powerhouse Carolyn Routh for a deep‑dive into the moments that shaped her life and career.

• From church choirs in Siler City, N.C. to the national blue‑grass stage – Carolyn recounts her first “two‑front‑teeth” talent‑show debut, the high‑school musical years, and the pivotal switch from contemporary Christian music to the blue‑grass world of New Blue.
• Trials and triumphs – a 2003 stroke that stole her speech and mobility, the grueling rehab that birthed the anthem “Make Me Whole Again,” and the gospel‑driven “Nail‑by‑Nail” that marked her comeback.
• The art of the song – why a good song matters more than genre, her love for everything from contemporary Christian, bluegrass, and even a reluctant respect for rap, plus the “caramel‑colored” timbre of her voice.
• Behind the scenes – the family‑run restaurant legacy, the quirky band dynamics (the “quick‑shower” Daniel, banjo‑player Austin, mandolinist Justin), and the creation of Bluegrass Ridge TV, the world’s largest blue‑grass TV channel.
• Favorites & “can’t‑tell‑me‑how‑I‑feel” moments – from the haunting “Resurrection Song” to the “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” cover that started a fan‑favorite tradition.

All this and more—tour dates, a caramel‑sweet dessert, a caramel‑colored voice, and a promise that the road never stops—are waiting for you. Grab your headphones, press play, and let the music do the talking. 🎙️✨

In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with veteran rocker David Ellefson—a guitarist whose love affair with music began at eleven, when the bass line of Bachman‑Turner‑Overdrive’s Not Fragile sparked a lifelong obsession. From those early needle‑drops to the thunder of KISS‑era amps, David walks us through the soundtrack of his life: the grind of marching‑band sax, the thrill of early cover‑band gigs, and the relentless quest to chase the songs that saved him from the darkness of depression.

We dive deep into David’s recent projects—his “No Cover” collection of beloved cuts, the hard‑rock collaboration with Jeff Scott Soto on the new album Unbreakable, and the behind‑the‑scenes stories from legendary Battery Studios in London, the very rooms that birthed Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and even the original Nevermind console. Along the way, we hear anecdotes about the Trans‑Siberian Orchestra, Megadeth’s “Big Four” saga, and a poignant moment recording a video right as the world mourned Ozzy Osbourne’s passing.

If you’ve ever found solace in a guitar solo, a soaring vocal, or the simple act of pressing play, this conversation is for you. Tune in as we explore how music not only fuels a career but also becomes a lifeline—one chord at a time. 🎸✨

In this episode, host James Cox— himself a resilient, hands‑on survivor of depression—welcomes a multifaceted friend, Tommy Giorlando. Tommy’s journey threads together three passions that seem worlds apart yet perfectly in sync:

• A lifelong love of music – From teen garage‑band mischief with Opus Podunk, through the folk‑pirate vibes of Boca Musica, to newly‑released pop‑punk tracks like “Bad Intentions.” He’ll share the wildest tour memories—like a dreamy canal cruise in Giethoorn, the spontaneous shanty sing‑alongs with international musicians, and the hypnotic crowd‑choreography of his old Opus Podunk finale.
• The science of sound – Tommy explains how certain frequencies can coax the brain into alpha‑ and theta‑states, making the stage feel like a trance. He’ll reveal how he weaves droning ambience, chimes, and even the Benny Hill theme into his comedy‑hypnosis shows, turning ordinary listeners into foot‑tappers, face‑dancers, and even accidental Irish river‑dancers.
• A faith‑based take on hypnosis – As a committed Christian, Tommy has wrestled with the theological controversy surrounding mind‑work. He’ll discuss his newly published book Transformed: Hypnosis Through the Lens of Scripture, the ethical line suggestion and control, and how modern research (even a Harvard study on bone‑healing) proves hypnosis is a neutral tool—like a hammer—shaped by the hands that wield it.
• Carrying the torch of the Tom Silver Foundation – After a poignant mentorship with the late hypnosis pioneer Tom Silver, Tommy now serves on the board of the nonprofit dedicated to spreading scientifically‑backed hypnotherapy to underserved communities, funding free pain‑relief sessions, and training medical professionals worldwide.

Go to the Tom Silver Foundation website here:

https://www.tomsilverfoundation.org

Visit Tommy's website here:

https://www.likeahypnotist.com

All of this is wrapped in genuine friendship, a few off‑the‑cuff jokes about favorite bands (Beatles, Nirvana, Korn, Linkin Park), and a heartfelt moment when Tommy reveals the one song that still brings him to tears—Chris Tomlin’s “Holy Forever.”

Tune in to discover how music can crack open the doors of the subconscious, lift the weight of depression, and turn a simple beat into a bridge between science, spirituality, and pure human connection. When words fail, music—and a good dose of hypnotic rhythm—speaks. 🎧✨

Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks,” the podcast that turns melodies into medicine for the soul.

In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with Jastin Artis—a gold‑and‑platinum‑streamed indie producer, songwriter, A&R mentor, and relentless “chronic‑health warrior.” From the origins of his unusual middle name—Jastin, a blend of his parents’ names, and Artist, a tribute to a grandfather he never met—to his journey from a class‑room clarinet player to a guitar‑driven “hip‑hop Renaissance” creator, Justin shares the stories that have shaped his sound.

We’ll dive deep into his creative process, exploring how a simple keyboard chord evolves into the layered instrumentals of Love in Darkness and the genre‑bending anthem “Tag This.” Jastin reveals the challenges of living with fibromyalgia, insomnia and low testosterone, and how music, meditation, video games, and even Netflix binge‑watching become his lifelines when depression looms.

The conversation also touches on:

• The power of naming and identity in an artis' career.
• The mastermind collaborations he’d love to see—Pharrell, Jimi Hendrix, and a female legend like Queen Latifah or Alanis Morissette.
• The songs that move him to the brink of tears—Lauryn Hill’s MTV Unplugged performance and John Mayer’s “Gravity.”
• A glimpse of his future merch empire (stickers, throw‑pillows, beach towels) and his relentless drive to turn streams into tangible support for creators.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of chronic illness, the sting of creative doubt, or simply crave a soundtrack for resilience, this episode is your reminder that when words stumble, music never does. Grab your headphones, press play, and let Jastin’s story inspire the next stanza of your own journey.

As always.....when words fail...music speaks!

Welcome back to When Words Fail, the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time. James Cox—a self‑styled “handicapped” guide on a mission to prove that music can be the therapy we all need.

In today’s episode we sit down with the ever‑mysterious Jeff Tuttle—known for his work with The Dillinger Escape Plan, the post‑hardcore outfit Old Gods, and the lightning‑fast super‑group Shock Narcotic. Jeff walks us through his winding road from a small‑town Michigan kid who grew up with the eclectic bassist and became a songwriter behind some of the most relentless, under‑a‑minute tracks in modern metal.

We’ll unpack:

• The “Super‑Group” Myth – Jeff’s take on why labels like “supergroup” can feel limiting, and why the chemistry of a true unit matters more than star power.
• Songwriting in the Abyss – How he wrestles with riffs that won’t fit, splits them into new songs, and finally lets the creative flow take over.
• From Old Gods to Shock Narcotic – The evolution of his sound, the freedom he finally found writing his own heavy material, and the collaborative dance with vocalist Sean.
• A Time‑Travel Tour Fantasy – If Shock Narcotic could crash any era, which one would it be and why?
• Personal Passions Outside the Stage – Jeff’s love of classic horror (the Evil Dead forever), his admiration for John McLaughlin’s jazz‑fusion vision, and his secret devotion to Sleep Token.

Whether you’re a metalhead craving ferocious riffs, a fan of genre‑blending experiments, or simply looking for a reminder that angry music can still be a soundtrack for happy souls, this conversation will hit all the right notes.

So crank the volume up, tighten those headphones, and get ready for a raw, honest, and unapologetically heavy dive into the mind of Jeff Tuttle—only on When Words Fail. Let the healing begin.

Welcome to the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast that fights depression one chord at a time.

In today’s episode, host James Cox, sits down with seasoned songwriter‑producer Dennis Welch—a nearly‑70‑year‑old journeyman who’s penned over 500 songs, toured the world, and been nominated on five Grammy ballots.

From the first spark of a melody that woke James up in the middle of the night, to Dennis’s secret weapon—restorative sleep and a steadfast daily power‑nap—the conversation drifts through a lifetime of creative breakthroughs, health hacks, and the raw, unglamorous moments that shaped a career.

Listeners will hear the origin story of Dennis’s debut album, the serendipitous restaurant encounter that birthed the Grammy‑track “Why Not Me,” and the heartbreaking yet uplifting tale of Mark Houser, a prolific lyricist who battled metastatic pancreatic cancer while still delivering two full albums.

The duo also pulls back the curtain on the rise of house concerts, the quirky anecdotes that turned into hit songs (think “Uncle Joe”), and the deeper purpose behind Dennis’s music; writing what people need to hear, not just what they want.

Whether you’re a songwriter hunting inspiration, a fan craving authentic storytelling, or anyone looking for the healing power of music, this episode offers a heartfelt roadmap—proving that even when life gets “bigger than us,” a good song can still light the way.

Stay tuned, press play, and let the music speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome to “Music Speaks,” the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast where we battle depression with the power of music.

In today’s episode we kick things off with a quick shout‑out to our sponsor, BetterHelp—your affordable, on‑your‑schedule mental‑health ally offering listeners 10 % off the first month of therapy.

We dive straight into a lively conversation with Milwaukee’s own Alan Hales—radio host, founder the independent‑music hub Breaking and Entering, and the mastermind behind the tongue‑in‑cheek “Bad Pitches Only” series that spotlights the most cringeworthy artist submissions. Allen walks us through:

• The gritty reality of band‑to‑radio submissions (missing ISRC codes, un‑licensed MP3s, and why a simple artist bio is a must).
• How his weekly “Love Local Radio” hour on FM 101 gives Milwaukee’s DIY talent a dedicated airtime—and the art of curating an hour‑long, genre‑spanning playlist that keeps listeners tuned in.
• The evolution of the indie music landscape from the 90s to today’s streaming‑driven world, and why the internet may actually be a bigger equalizer than any record label ever was.
• The rise of merch on Amazon, t‑public, and the challenges of quality control when you’re a one‑person shirt empire.
• 
  

We also explore the future of music creation, tackling the hot‑button debate around AI‑generated—sharing Allen’s own viral AI‑track that racked up millions of plays before anyone realized it wasn’t human‑made.

All of is threaded together with humor, personal anecdotes about skate‑boarding, Tony Hawk video games, and Allen’s ultimate “Mount Rushmore” of musical influences—from the Ramones to the Beastie Boys and local legend Twan Mac.

Stay tuned for actionable tips for aspiring artists, a glimpse into the Milwaukee‑vs‑the‑world music scene, and a reminder that when words fail, music always speaks.

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let the conversation—and the beats—begin.

In today’s episode we’re thrilled to have Reeya Banerjee—writer, vocalist, voice‑over artist, and the raw, honest storyteller behind the critically‑acclaimed album The Way Up—joining host James Cox for a deep‑dive into the healing power of music.

We kick things off with a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, reminding listeners that affordable, flexible online therapy is just a few clicks away (and you can snag 10 % off your first month at betterhelp.com/music‑speaks).

From there, James and Reeya wanders through the musical landscape that shapes her art:

• the Beatles’ “Something,”
• Springsteen’s “Thunder Road,”
• U2’s “The Sweetest Thing,”
• Fiona Apple’s “Criminal,”
• Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer,”
• and Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.”

Reeya reveals how each of these tracks inspired her own songwriting, and why certain songs—like her own “The Way Up,” “Deep Water,” and the childhood‑memory‑laden “Snow”—feel easier to say when they’re sung. She also opens up about the mental‑health crisis she faced in 2019, the intensive therapy that helped her reclaim her voice, and the way music became her conduit for processing grief, insomnia, and the restless energy of a night‑owl musician.

Listeners get a sneak peek at Reeya’s upcoming August release “This Place,” a concept album that maps nine cities to nine core emotions, and we hear about the stories behind singles such as “Misery of Place,” “For the First Time,” “Runner,” and the soon‑to‑drop “Upstate Rust.”

The conversation rounds out with playful cover‑quiz challenges, a nostalgic look at the Hudson‑Valley bar that sparked her creative community, and a heartfelt promise that when words fail, music always speaks.

Stay tuned, grab your headphones, and prepare for an episode packed with candid conversation, lyrical insights, and a reminder that—no matter how dark the night—there’s always a melody waiting to lift you up.

And remember: when you need a mental‑health boost, BetterHelp is just a click away at betterhelp.com/music‑speaks.