Lightning Bugs: Conversations with Ben Folds

Roger Payne & Jonathan Gottschall - What Is Most Needed Now - Finale Mar 31, 2022

Today’s guests are biologist and environmentalist, Dr. Roger Payne, and literary scholar and author, Jonathan Gottschall! This is our exciting final episode before we go on a hiatus to reflect on and pursue all the wonderful insights and ideas we’ve gained from a year of lightning bugs. This show's central topic has been creativity, and this episode is meant to highlight how art is what is most needed right now. On this episode, we talk about the impact of a good story, what it takes for art to create change, and how to bridge the divide while also being specific and poignant. We reflect on what works in the past have inspired change and how some modern “political” works could be adjusted to have more impact and speak to issues in an approach that everyone can digest and take to heart.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

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Roger Payne - Creativity Is The Only Way To Save Humanity Mar 24, 2022

Today’s guest is biologist and environmentalist, Dr. Roger Payne. In 1970 Dr Payne recorded “Songs of the Humpback Whale” which stands as the best-selling environmental album in history. This album and it’s popularity crafted the “Save the Whales” movement which then led to the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment ten-year global moratorium on commercial whaling, which was observed by all but a few nations. On this episode we talk about what launched Roger’s passion for whales, how music has existed before humans, and trends within whales singing. We also talk about how creativity is the only way to reach the masses regarding the environment and climate change, and how the future looks very bleak without creative voices.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

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Elena Kats-Chernin - Do The Instruments We Use Influence The Songs We Create? Mar 17, 2022

Today’s guest is pianist and composer Elena Kats-Chernin! Best known for her opera, Wild Swans, Elena also creates orchestral works, solo pieces, as well as music for various mediums from dance to film. You’ll recognize works such as Clocks, Book of Rags, and Orpheus/Odysseus/Poppea. On this episode we talk about focusing on what you will do today instead of what you did yesterday, snippets of old pieces becoming part of something new, and improvising live. We also talk about if tools influence the work, being a working composer, and not reading to save your eyesight.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

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Michael López-Alegría - How Seeing Earth From Space Changes Your Perspective Mar 10, 2022

Today’s guest is astronaut and test pilot, Michael López-Alegría. Michael has completed three Space Shuttle missions and an International Space Station mission. He holds the record for highest number of spacewalks (also known as EVAs), as well as longest total duration of time in EVA. On this episode, we talk about the ways traveling to space changes your view of life, working with purpose, and the difference between a week-long mission and staying in space for half a year. We also talk about how it feels to wear a spacesuit, how ‘cold’ space really is, and how (in)accurate depictions of space in media are.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

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Keb’ Mo’ - How Technology Influences Music and How Perfectionism Isn’t Perfect Mar 03, 2022

Today’s guest is musician, songwriter, and five-time Grammy winner, Keb’ Mo’. He’s a blues musician, having released songs such as Am I Wrong, Good To Be, and Will The Circle Be Unbroken. On this episode, we talk about making music during the pandemic, the different approaches when recording on tape, and how mistakes in music can feel more authentic. We also talk about bands being in time with each other, singing ahead of the beat, and the performance aspects lost when we know we can edit our audio after recording.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

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Governor Roy Cooper - Prioritizing Art and Art Communities Feb 24, 2022

Today’s guest is Roy Cooper, the Governor of Ben’s home state of North Carolina. In office, Governor Cooper has placed focus on the arts and preserving art communities during the pandemic. In this episode they talk about the logistics of arts funding, how the arts grow small towns, and public versus private. Ben gives tribute to region that helped shape him, and asks how we can continue to support, preserve, and grow creative pursuits in all forms.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicholas Barasch - Embracing the Dynamics of Performance Feb 17, 2022

Today’s guest is actor and singer, Nicholas Barasch. He's starred in the Broadway productions of She Loves Me and West Side Story. Nicholas is currently starring in the Broadway National Tour of Hadestown. On this episode, we talk about becoming a child actor, how to work through puberty and voice changes, and how rejections are the biggest part of an actor’s job. We also talk about how different venues change how you go about a performance, and how to read the room when what an audience engages with can change night to night.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nolen Bivens - How Local Artists Impact Governments Feb 10, 2022

Today’s guest is former U.S. Army General, and CEO and President of Americans for the Arts, Nolen Bivens. His work pushes for arts and arts education in the public and private sectors and emphasizes the importance that creativity has in every aspect in life. On this episode, we dive into talking about military artists, how the United States has always had a relationship with art, and how battles are like orchestras. We also talk about how supporting local artists communities creates positive impacts for towns, and how music is the universal language.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cassadee Pope - Healthy Competition and Collaboration Feb 03, 2022

Today’s guest is singer, songwriter, and musician, Cassadee Pope. Cassadee was the lead singer of Hey Monday, and has had a successful solo career. After winning NBC’s “The Voice” in 2012, she’s continued to create hit songs and express her creativity. On this episode we talk about what makes good collaboration, how competition can be a healthy driving factor, and how experiences some may view as selling out can actively be the most creatively challenging. We also talk about the guilt of feeling like you need to be more productive and learning to cut your own vocals.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gregory Scott - Standing on the Shoulders of Giants Jan 27, 2022

Today’s guest is the founder of Kush Audio and Sly-Fi Digital, Gregory Scott. He’s worked to create countless plug-ins and interfaces to help creatives working in audio. He’s also the host of “Kush After Hours,” a program dedicated to teach mixing, mastering, and audio work in inventive and creative ways, giving deep insights to everyone that listens. On this episode, we talk about giving technicians applause, refining established ideas, and how music has become more focused on being technically perfect. We also talk about hearing through someone else’s ears, how to effectively compare two pieces of equipment, and how tools help leverage creativity.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret Cho - Every Comedian Has One Truth Jan 20, 2022

Today’s guest is stand-up comedian, actress, musician, activist, and author, Margaret Cho. You’ll recognize her from the sitcom she created and starred in, All-American Girl, as well as various roles in media, being featured in ventures like, Face/Off, Drop Dead Diva, 30 Rock, and many, many more. Margaret is best known for her stand-up comedy routines, where she transforms the stage into a platform of comedic discourse, traversing across topics such as social issues, politics, race, sexuality, and more. On this episode we break down how every comedian has one essential truth that serves as a foundation to build on, the school of thought of improv, how the unexpected can be the most rewarding, and how our attention span serves as an important factor in both creating and consuming comedy.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrea Wheatley - The Magic of a Live Performance Jan 13, 2022

Today’s guest is Osteopath, 10-times World Champion in full-contact Filipino Stick-fighting, 8th Dan Black Belt in Filipino Martial Arts, Andrea Wheatly. Andrea is a fighter, inside and outside of the ring. She has been paralyzed four times over her career, relearning to walk in 2014. She is a testament to hard work, dedication, and passion, in every aspect of her career. In this episode we talk about how the pressure of a live performance can lead to better results, pushing with your mind when your body cannot, and learning to see the beauty in life even with hardship.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacob Collier - The Methods of Making Music Jan 06, 2022

Today’s guest is Multi-Instrumentalist and Vocalist, Jacob Collier! You’ll recognize him from tracks such as “All I Need,” “The Sun In Your Eyes,” and “In Too Deep.” His music spans across several styles and genres as Jacob looks for new and interesting ways to create. On this episode we talk about how digital instruments have changed how we make music, how physical instruments can have the most impact, and how sometimes the best instrument is the one you can execute from idea to concept in the least amount of time. We also talk about how the piano only has so many notes and how to capture the creative spark and feed it into something larger.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rainn Wilson - Transforming Words into a Breathing Character Dec 16, 2021

Today’s guest is actor, producer, writer, and podcaster, Rainn Wilson. You’ll recognize him as Dwight Schrute from NBC’s The Office, the digital media company he co-founded, SoulPancake, the Lidè Foundation with it’s goal to empower at-risk women and girls through the arts in rural Haiti, or from his podcast, Metaphysical Milkshake. On this episode we talk about improv vs. set structure, unique acting exercises, and what it really means to change the words on a page into a living character. We also talk about how entertainment is 1,000 choices a minute, pretending not to care as an artist, and the impact of a surprise.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Frampton - Approaching Each Song with Curiosity Dec 09, 2021

Today’s guest is musician, actor, and producer, Peter Frampton. You’ll recognize his work from music groups like: Humble Pie, The Herd, and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. You’ll also see him in movies like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and Almost Famous. In this episode we talk about being a fan for someone else’s work and how an artist can be respectful when someone tells them they appreciate their work. We also talk about music versus lyrics, how temporary lyrics can still have impact, and the lasting impact of good lyrics. We also talk about approaching each project from a place of innocence, and how perspective can influence how you make art.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Gottschall - How Storytellers Transport Listeners Dec 02, 2021

Today’s guest is literary scholar, Research Fellow, Author, and Editor, Jonathan Gottschall! His latest book, The Story Paradox, highlights the influence of storytellers and how stories can be used for both good and bad purposes. His other work, The Storytelling Animal, shows how human beings are wired to consume stories. On this episode, we talk about how storytellers transport listeners to another state where they’re compliant, the limitations of contrarian jokes, how art is hidden in non-fiction work, if happiness and success are at odds with one another, and how often times the quality of a piece is determined by the hours put in and not raw talent.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lindsey Kraft - Changing Mediums as an Artist Nov 18, 2021

Today’s guest is actress, model, writer, and musician, Lindsey Kraft. You know her from The Shrink Next Door, Grace and Frankie, Getting On, Veep, and more! On this episode we dive into talking about going to a spiritual healer to help people transition from corporate to creative, changing between acting and playing piano, and looking for the truth to tell in songwriting. We also talk about approaching songs as a storyteller, creative ways to take inspiration from other artists, and getting the most out of collaboration.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Thile - How To Create Art That Is Authentically Yourself Nov 11, 2021

Today’s guest is mandolinist, singer, and songwriter, Chris Thile. You’ll know him from his work with the acoustic trio Nickel Creek, the bluegrass group, Punch Brothers, as well as his solo album, Laysongs, released this year. On this episode we talk about how the meaning of folk music changes with cultures, growing up in a musical household, showcasing both work that you worked hard on as well as work that is most authentically yourself. We also talk about what it means to be a weak agnostic, and a performance so good you forget it is an audition.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penn Jillette - Tricking Your Audience without Speaking Down to Them Nov 04, 2021

Today’s guest is magician Penn Jillette! Half of the comedy magic duo, Penn & Teller, Penn is also a musician, actor, inventor, author, and more. You’ll know him from his years of magic, the hit television show: Fool Us, and his podcast Penn’s Sunday School. On this episode, we talk about creating an even playing field in magic, choosing something you know you won’t be the best at, and developing a trick over 10,000 performances.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dodie - Being a Viral Artist and Transforming Your Career Oct 28, 2021

My guest this week is singer-songwriter Dodie. She started out by uploading original songs and covers to YouTube back in 2007, and now she's got almost 2 million YouTube subscribers, 3 EPs, and 1 full-length album. On this episode, we talk about creating a career using YouTube, the best recording session of Dodie’s life, and how a music career starting from YouTube varies compared to a more traditional route. We also dive into talking about constantly growing as an artist, and how to defy expectations, even when people just want you to play your hits.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick Hornby - Chasing New Ideas and Finishing the Old Ones Oct 21, 2021

Today’s guest is Nick Hornby, best-selling author (High Fidelity, About A Boy, Fever Pitch), award-winning screenwriter (An Education, Wild, Brooklyn) and lyricist (Ben Folds' album, Lonely Avenue). On this episode, we talk about how children can be the most honest characters, how music and writing overlap, combating the urge to abandon an old idea for a new one, and finding out how to set a daily page goal for yourself.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Lightning Bugs Live Event with Dan Wilson Oct 20, 2021

Join Ben and his special guest Dan Wilson (writer of Not Ready To Make Nice, Someone Like You, Closing Time) LIVE from Ben's writing camp studio in Nashville. Grab a front row seat to join Ben on stage to ask your questions about his career, writing process, and what he has in store for the future! There will also be live trivia and bingo, with an opportunity to win some awesome merch.

Tickets are available now at https://app.loopedlive.com/c/3727

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Metaphysical Milkshake - Creating a Song with Rainn and Reza Oct 19, 2021

On today’s bonus episode we are joined by Rainn Wilson and Reza Aslan from the podcast Metaphysical Milkshake. We dive in and get a New Week’s Resolution from both Rainn and Reza. Afterwards we create a song using a haiku, a bassoon, and a lot of creativity!

This episode is the second part of a special crossover event. Check out the other part which is also out TODAY, where Rainn, Reza and I listen to fan voicemails and answer their questions about creativity, art and music. So, head over to the Metaphysical Milkshake feed to listen to the episode and follow, rate and review if you like it! Out every Tuesday, Rainn and Reza welcome amazing guests like Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Mayim Bialik, Jason Isbell and more.

Check out the other part here: https://www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/metaphysical-milkshake-with-rainn-reza/id1566052074

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Grammer - Being Yourself with A Changing Music Industry Oct 14, 2021

Today’s guest is Andy Grammer, the singer, songwriter, and record producer. You’ll know Andy from hit songs like “Honey, I’m Good”, “Don’t Give up on Me”, and “Good To Be Alive.” On this episode, we dive into how the music industry has changed from an exclusive club to being more spread out, humble beginnings, helping to cultivate the magic of creating a song, and maintaining a business sense without compromising your creativity. Check out Andy’s newest song “Damn It Feels Good To Be Me” out now!

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek Waters - Creativity in Formats and Originality Oct 07, 2021

Today’s guest is Derek Waters, the actor, comedian, screenwriter, producer, and director. You’ll recognize Derek from his hit series Drunk History as well as from his many other creative pursuits. Derek is a force, through and through, collaborating and contributing in any creative space he works in. On this episode we dive into talking about playing classical music during sports games, being hyper-specific while having the big picture in your head, the benefits of formulas, when to ditch formulas and make something completely original, and how your creative work is a representation of you as a person.
You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds
And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Hicks - Learning from Proximity and the Impact of an Image Sep 30, 2021

Today’s guest is Scott Hicks, the Australian film director and screenwriter. Best known for writing and directing Shine, the biopic of pianist David Helfgott, Scott received nominations for two Academy Awards. From Shine, Scott has gone on to direct many more films, such as No Reservations, The Lucky One, and Heart of Atlantis. On this episode we talk about Scott working early in his career with Peter Weir and Bruce Beresford, how a filmset is a tool for education by shadowing the work of masters, how the Australian film market differs from America’s, the true impact of an image, and creating a message using visual language.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

William Shatner - Talented Amateurs vs Professionals, and Learning to Control the Wind Sep 23, 2021

Today’s guest is William Shatner! Known for his iconic role as Captain Kirk in Star Trek: The Original Series, William is an actor, author, producer, director, screenwriter, and singer. His newest album, “BILL,” is releasing 9/24.

Ben and William collaborated on the album “Has Been,” released in 2004.

In this episode, we talk about what separates an amateur from a professional (even if an amateur is more talented), saying you could have done something versus actually doing it, horseback riding, and transforming hardship into creativity. This conversation was a lot of fun so take a listen to our conversation with the one the only Mr. William Shatner.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gabriel Kahane - Not Using the Internet for One Year and the Art of Orchestra Sep 16, 2021

Today’s guest is singer-songwriter, pianist, and orchestral composer Gabriel Kahane. He’s released several albums to critical acclaim, and he’s written essays for publications such as The New Yorker and The New York Times. Gabriel has a unique approach to songwriting - in 2016, he traveled all around the United States gathering inspiration for his album Book of Travelers.

On this episode, we dive into Gabe’s recent year-long hiatus from the internet, in which he discovered how genuine human interaction has become harder to find as our reliance on technology has grown. We also speak about the human nature of creativity and how technology can help but also interfere with the creative process.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Harris - Why Museums Exist and the Collective Experience of Media Sep 09, 2021

Today’s guest is Greg Harris, president and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Greg has had an impressive career - as the co-founder of a successful vinyl record store, the Vice President of Development at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, and now as the leader of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Greg and Ben crossed paths in 2014 during Ben’s efforts to save RCA Studio A in Nashville from demolition. Out of the blue, Greg wrote an amazing letter of support that got lots of attention all over the country and helped turn the tide for his cause.

In this episode, we talk about how museums extend past just the physical objects within them, the ways music connect us together as a collective experience, and how museums should look just as much to the future as they do to the past.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marti Gould Cummings - Drag as an Art Form and How Creativity Fuels Activism Sep 02, 2021

Today’s guest is the iconic New York City drag artist, TV personality, and political activist, Marti Gould Cummings. Marti's been a regular fixture in the nightlife world for nearly a decade. They host shows such as Dragged and The Marti Report, and they have a podcast called Marti Talks.

Marti is known for combining the world of drag with politics and activism. On this episode we talk about thinking outside the conventional boxes of society, as well as the origins, meaning, and constant evolution of drag. We also talk about drag as an art form, existing as a body of work that influences society while also serving as platform for conversation and discourse.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josh Groban - Finding Success in Creating Your Own Lane Aug 26, 2021

Today, my guest is singer, songwriter, and actor, Josh Groban! He's performed all around the world for over a decade, and in 2017, he starred in the hit Broadway musical, Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812. As an actor, you'd recognize him in tv shows and films such as - The Good Cop, Crazy Stupid Love, The Office, and so much more.

On this episode, we discussed sticking to your own style, even when the trend points a different direction, having your serious songwriting albums while also having your fun ones, collaboration on different levels, and writing a song about a rude breeze that attempts to interrupt the interview.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emily King - How Imperfection Creates Soul Aug 19, 2021

Today, my guest is singer and songwriter Emily King. She’s an amazing R&B artist with four albums and three Grammy nominations under her belt. She released an album in 2020 called Sides, which is all acoustic versions of previously released songs.

On this episode, we discuss how to find your authentic voice in a world where you can have unlimited versions on a track, how recording from home and at a studio can change your creative perspective, and how sometimes the track you do half awake with your hands in your pockets is the best one that ends up on the album.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Levitin - How Science and Creativity Overlap Aug 12, 2021

Today, my guest is Dr. Daniel Levitin. He’s a neuroscientist, musician, and author. His research encompasses music, the brain, health, productivity and creativity. Publishing more than 300 articles, authoring four New York Times Bestsellers, and serving as a music consultant for several musical groups, Daniel’s insight and ideas have been felt far and wide. Daniel's ears have influenced the work of Blue Öyster Cult, Chris Isaak, and many many more.

On this episode, we discuss why humans create music, how our definitions and interpretation of sound have changed, the divide and overlap between science and creativity, and how the ability to recognize sound is as old as 800 million years.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bishop Briggs - Becoming a Full-Time Musician and Seeing Past the Glamour of an Industry Aug 05, 2021

Today’s guest is the musician Bishop Briggs. Her first single Wild Horses was released in 2015, and she's been cranking out music every year since then. Bishop has always been on the grind, starting out in coffee shops and small venues (which she refers to as “piss rooms,”) working hard to become the musician she is today.

We dive into the realities of being a musician full-time and running it as a business. The reality of how grief can be inspiration for your work. And cutting pass the glamor of being a singer and realizing that the people you work with is one of the most important aspects of being creative.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Susan Rogers - How our Mind Naturally Recognizes Music Jul 29, 2021

Today’s guest is the record producer, sound engineer, and professor, Susan Rogers. She’s worked as a studio engineer with artists such as Prince, Barenaked Ladies, David Byrne, and many more. Susan has a doctorate in music cognition and psychoacoustics from McGill University, and she’s a professor at Berklee College of Music in the Music Production and Engineering department.

On this episode, we talk about how our music tastes develop, how our ears physically react when we hear music we like, and how styles of music are constantly changing and evolving. We also speak about the human baseline of innate music knowledge and understanding of theory, and how we can learn to become better listeners.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alice Major - Shaping the Sounds of Language Jul 22, 2021

Today’s guest is a former poet laureate in Canada, author, and essayist, Alice Major. She’s published eleven collections of poetry, two novels for young adults, and an award-winning collection of essays about poetry and science.

Her work has appeared in a variety of anthologies, and she’s active in many literary and arts organizations all over Canada.

We spoke about the creations of associations in our world and how words and language contain a sound and shape that can be played with and formed. We talked about how poetry isn’t just about the words, but the part as a whole and how it flows piece to piece.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kishi Bashi - Using the Past to Create Art for the Future Jul 15, 2021

Today, my guest is singer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Kishi Bashi. He’s recorded and toured internationally as a violinist with a variety of artists such as Regina Spektor, Sondre Lerche, and of Montreal.

His latest album, Omoiyari, was released in 2019. He is currently co-directing a feature length documentary of the same name about minority identity and the incarceration of Japanese Americans in WWII. This year, Kishi released his Emigrant EP, a companion piece to Omoiyari.

Kishi uses his art for activism - working to educate people and to continue telling the human story one piece at a time.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah Donnelley - Crafting Creativity and Connecting a Community Jul 08, 2021

Today we spoke with Sarah Donnelley, an inspiring, award-winning teacher and musician based in Australia. She recently received an ARIA award for a video project she made with her students during COVID-19 lockdown in remote Wilcannia, Australia. Sarah promotes creativity inside and outside of her classroom - connecting the community around her and inspiring generations to create music, anywhere and any way they can. We spoke about connecting people where internet isn’t a given and promoting creativity when interacting can’t always be in person.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rove McManus - Creating a Multi-Medium Career and Perfecting the Craft of Interviewing Jul 01, 2021

Today we spoke with Rove McManus, an award-winning comedian, television and radio presenter, producer and media personality. His career has spanned many different platforms throughout the years. Voted most popular personality on Australian Television, Rove has called TV home but has expanded to create for standup comedy, radio, film, and much more. On the episode Rove spoke about how to get started in media and taught Ben how to hone his skills as a podcast interviewer and host.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Massenburg - Building the Technology of Creativity Jun 24, 2021

Today we spoke with George Massenburg, a living legend in the recording industry.

A world-class electronics inventor who created the parametric equalizer, he's designed, built and managed recording studios, and his George Massenburg Labs (GML) equipment can be found in nearly every notable studio in the world. He's a multi-Grammy award winner with hundreds of recording and producing credits spanning a 40 year career, working with leading artists in virtually all genres of music.

Currently a professor at McGill University in Montreal, George continues to innovate in the emerging art of immersive sound. Join us in discussing the science of sound and creating the technology to help push creativity, as well as seeing building the infrastructure of creative pursuits that can also be achieved in the future.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruby Amanfu - Creating Music with your Authentic Voice Jun 17, 2021

Today we spoke with Ruby Amanfu, the Nashville-based Grammy Award nominated songwriter, recording artist, actor, and activist. From her collaborations with Jack White, H.E.R., and Sara Bareilles to her expansive array of solo work, her voice as a musician has been heard by the world in many different ways. We also spoke about her recent collaboration with Leigh Nash on the song “Good Trouble,” which released in the wake of the BLM George Floyd protests and covering the importance of having your voice heard in an authentic way.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryan O’Connell - Using Personal Stories to Create Something Larger than Yourself Jun 10, 2021

Today we spoke with Ryan O’Connell, the amazing writer, actor, showrunner, director, comedian, and activist. We spoke about formulating a writing process, how the content we create changes with age, wearing your influences on your sleeves to create something for yourself, owning your troll, and much more. We also spoke about Ryan’s Netflix show “Special” and about creating content that is for a community but also comes from a very personal place.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Lawson - Solving Problems Instead Of Selling Solutions Jun 03, 2021

Today we spoke with Jeff Lawson, the Co-Founder and CEO of Twilio. His career has spanned over many years and over many companies, notably serving as the CTO of Stubhub. We talked about the creativity of programming and how creating a playground with problems to fix inspires coders to tinker and create solutions. Jeff’s goal is one of collaboration, working with his programming “artists” to get the best out of people and to be on the cutting edge of finding the next problem to fix.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sara Bareilles - Constructive Collaboration and Defining your Own Path May 27, 2021

Today we spoke with Sara Bareilles, the amazing singer-songwriter, actress, author, and producer. From hit songs such as Love Song and Brave, to her newest project Girls5eva, a TV series streaming on Peacock, Sara is an unstoppable creative force.

In this episode, we talked about how your childhood influences your creativity, why it's important to find the right collaborators, and ways to navigate a male-dominated industry so you can define your unique voice and learn that you don’t have to apologize for being you.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Saget - Collaboration in Comedy and How to Be a Dynamic Entertainer May 20, 2021

Today we spoke with Bob Saget, the comedian, actor, host, and podcaster. From hosting America’s Funniest Home Videos and playing Danny Tanner in Full House to his long history of stand up and his podcast, Bob has entertained millions. In this episode we talked about needing a work ethic as an entertainer, having a dynamic and evolving career as a creative, and writing songs about being old men when we were just teenagers. Other topics include knowing when you have 2 hours of material vs 2 minutes, and learning to not edit yourself.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mo Willems - Art as A Passion and Business and Learning to Stay A Child at Heart May 13, 2021

Today we spoke with Mo Willems, the New York Times best-selling children’s author, illustrator, animator, and playwright. He’s known for his characters such as The Pigeon, Elephant, Piggie, and many more. In our conversation we talked about how a character is a child’s best friend and how children often are the best critics, noticing details in books that adults seldom see. We dive deep in the various forms of creativity and how it can be applied in different forms, so take a listen!

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

And check out the YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ix6szTyjg3vmx1sIj-Vfw

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maegan Morrow - Music as Medicine and The Science of How Our Bodies Need Rhythm May 06, 2021

Today, we chatted with Maegan Morrow, a cutting edge music therapist showing that music can be used for more than just enjoyment. In our conversation, we discuss how the human body reacts physically to beats and music, showing that music and rhythm is essential to certain processes. Maegan is most known for her work with former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, using music to help Gabby to speak after she suffered from brain damage from an assassination attempt.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marianne Williamson - Using Spirituality to Overcome Writer’s Block and Discovering the Past to Change the World Apr 29, 2021

Today, we spoke with Marianne Williamson, the author of 13 books and counting.

Marianne has a unique approach to creativity with how she infuses spirituality into her process. This mindfulness influences her work, and we had a really interesting conversation about why we create art - in a deeper, more metaphysical way.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Caleb Teicher - Living as A Part Time Artist and Expanding the Scope of Your Medium Apr 22, 2021

Today, we spoke with Caleb Teicher, a dancer and choreographer based in New York City. We chatted about being a creative while also being a human being, how artists get and grow ideas, and finding new approaches and perspectives in defined mediums, such as dance.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jon Batiste - Matching Technique with Creativity and How Discipline Differs from Drive Apr 15, 2021

Today, we talked to Jon Batiste, musician and band leader for Late Show with Stephen Colbert. We chatted about music theory, staying motivated in quarantine, and ways to carve out time for your art.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Agustín Fuentes - Discovering the Evolution of Creativity and Why Monkeys Steal Things Apr 08, 2021

Today, he talked to anthropologist Agustín Fuentes about the role of creativity in our evolution and survival, how society causes writer's block, and the time a macaque monkey stole Ben's glasses.

You can submit your questions to Ben here: https://www.speakpipe.com/BenFolds

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.