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In this season finale, Kiki welcomes back Heta Hyttinen after eight years of our first interview at Tuska Festival in 2018. Together with Katja Vauhkonen, these expert #WomenInMetal share their experiences in artist management and PR as well as why live music remains an irreplaceable experience for Metal fans. From the real rewards of managing smaller bands to navigating the rise of AI-generated music, Heta and Katja offer a confident perspective on what it really takes for bands to thrive today - SPOILER: there is no true recipe for success. 00:00 Heta Hyttinen & Katja Vauhkonen on the Bleeding Metal Podcast06:23 The Passion Behind the Industry10:04 The Evolution of the Music Industry in the Internet Age17:02 Choosing Musicians and Bands to Manage22:09 The Music Industry's Dark Side: Sexism26:03 Balancing Family and Career in Music27:32 The Role of Accountability in the Music Industry30:58 Promoting Diversity in the Music Industry32:50 Creating Opportunities for New Talent Find out more: Heta Hyttinen’s Ginger Vine Management Website Katja Vauhkonen’s Website Recorded on April 23rd, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Karina Coss & Kiki⁠ with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Kiki welcomes Podcast friend Reetta Sjödin, A&R of Mimmi Label. Her journey from childhood festival-goer to launching a label that champions women, non-binary, and diverse artists proves change is not only possible but necessary. We break down the importance of community, mentorship, and asking questions in order to open doors that aren’t offered to us. Reetta’s efforts inspire others to challenge societal stereotypes. We also explore the Finnish love for karaoke and its therapeutic effects. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes Pod Friend Reetta Sjödin04:23 Founding Mimmi Label06:04 Lessons Learned from Industry Experience07:07 Karaoke World Championships08:31 The Popularity of Karaoke in Finland11:13 Growth and Development of Mimi Label12:33 The Meaning Behind the Name 'Mimmi Label'14:18 Dream Collaborations and Artist Aspirations16:15 Breaking Stereotypes and Promoting Inclusivity Find out more: Check out Mimmi Label's website Bleeding Metal episode with IKINÄ Recorded on May 20th, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠: Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Recurring guest and long-time friend of Bleeding Metal, Lindsay Schoolcraft joins Kiki in an episode that touches on everything from all the reasons why Artificial Intelligence should stay away from art, how the patriarchy harms everybody including men, and how different conditionings cultural backgrounds interfere in our abilities to learn vocal techniques. Lindsay breaks down the stories behind her upcoming album “Harrowing”, the symbolism in its cover art, and how her songwriting keeps evolving but will always keep some of that old-school Evanescence-style. We also go on a little tangent of how joining the lawsuit against her former band CRADLE OF FILTH was actually liberating and supportive of her Mental Health. 00:00 LINDSAY SCHOOLCRAFT Comes Back After Two Years04:49 Mental Health and Self-Care Practices06:41 Standing Up for Justice in the Music Industry09:49 The Impact of AI on Music and Creativity19:00 Hope for Societal Change driven by Women23:07 Lindsay's Stories on her New Album "Harrowing"27:16 The Journey of Learning Harsh Vocals33:29 The Album Artwork for Lindsay Schoolcraft's "Harrowing"38:00 Influences and Inspirations in Music40:57 Lindsay Schoolcraft's Two Albums in Two Years coming up Find out more: Pre-order “Harrowing” Follow Lindsay Schoolcraft on Instagram Lindsay’s previous Bleeding Metal episode from Nov. 28, 2023 Cody Johnstone’s Bleeding Metal episode from Nov 27, 2025 Lindsay’s friend and ‘So Alive’-guest vocalist Krista Shipperbottom on Instagram Recorded on May 20th, 2026 (with a few internet glitches, sorry!). Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Kiki welcomes the inspiring lead singers of Finnish Metalcore pioneers IKINÄ, Katariina and Tuuli, who advocate for more women in the genre, and how the band's latest album, "Valkyria", embodies the power of unity through themes of mythology. Learn about their groundbreaking collaboration 'Jumalatar' that was born from sisterhood and features 16 Finnish female vocalists and three languages. Together, we break down the importance of representation in metal, how mythological symbols can be sources of solace and comfort, and why the Metal community still needs to go a long way to live up to its reputation of being open-minded and inclusive. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes IKINÄ03:04 IKINÄ's lead singers and their other jobs06:38 The IKINÄ Family Dynamic08:25 Women in Metal Unity: The 'Jumalatar' Collaboration11:33 Exploring Feminine Power and Mythology15:43 The Reputation of the Metal Community19:28 IKINÄ's Festival Summer 2026 Find out more: Links to IKINÄ's new album “Valkyria” etc IKINÄ's powerful song collaboration with 16 Finnish #WomenInMetal A similar dynamic of love, respect, and admiration among band members, during Kiki’s talk with ALPHAWHORES Recorded on April 25th, 2026 at On The Rocks in Helsinki. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Most artists crave connection but few manage to show vulnerability and turn it into a powerful space for collective healing. In this episode, A.A. Willliams shares her extraordinary transition from classical cellist to the raw, immersive sound of her own songwriting. You'll discover how her classical training gave her a unique vocal and instrumental perspective, enabling her to craft deeply genuine performances that resonate on a profoundly human level. We break down her approach to staying authentic on social media, her audience interactions during live performances, and her fearless attitude in pitching herself and her music. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes A.A. Williams02:26 A.A. Williams' Musical Journey and Professional Background05:23 The Start of AA Williams' Own Songwriting18:25 Classical Music Studies24:57 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunities30:01 Collective Emotional Experience Through Live Music Find out more: A.A. Williams' website Pre-order A.A. Williams' upcoming album “Solstice” - out June 5th, 2026 Recorded on April 27th, 2026 on Venue - responsible for the video quality and layout. We’ll be back to our usual design soon! Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Kiki welcomes Podcast friend “Nahka-Sami” Silvennoinen, booking agent, festival promoter, and musician, who shares his unique journey through the music industry. From performing in metal bands to launching inclusive festivals, Sami discusses the importance of diversity, the realities of the industry, and how to foster safe spaces in the live music scene. This episode is a compelling call to action for the Metal community to truly embrace diversity, purposefully protect inclusive spaces, and reflect the core values that it’s known for. Sami’s honest insights challenge us to think differently and push for real change within our scene. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes Pod Friend Nahka-Sami04:11 Sami's Musical Journey and Early Influences12:12 From Musician to the Music Business20:11 Festival Organization and Gender Representation22:51 Navigating Politics in the Music Industry31:09 Creating Safe Spaces at Festivals Find out more: Ankea Festival Sami’s band TyranttiCoolhead BrewBook More Women Recorded on April 22nd, 2026 at Coolhead Brew in Helsinki. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

TRIGGER WARNING: violence against women Listen to part I of this episode. In this second half of Kiki’s conversation with international touring photographer and law‑trained advocate Faye S., we explore some often overlooked, yet crucial, measures Metalheads can take to safeguard artists and industry workers. Feeling safe in our workplace is vital and the music industry needs to take building inclusive spaces, and leveraging legal and strategic frameworks to prevent violence against women more seriously. 00:00 Part II with Music Photographer & Women's Rights Lawyer Faye01:32 Preventing Sexist Abuse in the Music Scene06:15 Consequences and Accountability for Offenders11:44 Faye's Experiences in the Music Industry14:55 Social Media's Rage Bait Algorithms18:36 The Importance of Asking for Advice20:27 The Joy of Creative Collaboration Find out more: Faye’s Photography and Videography work Find international resources around the topics of violence against women on NO MORE. Faye mentions Morgan St. Jean’s song “Not All Men” Recorded on March 24th, 2026 live on Bleeding Metal’s YouTube and Kiki's Twitch channel. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

TRIGGER WARNING: violence against women Power dynamics distort consent in ways the Metal scene rarely acknowledges. In this episode, Kiki welcomes international touring photographer and law‑trained advocate Faye S. to discuss many of the cases of sexist abuse within the Metal community and why legal systems alone can’t stop harm. Together, we examine why cancel culture isn’t real, how microaggressions, slut‑shaming, and other “normalized” behaviors quietly enable far more serious violence. We also plead for real accountability in a community that prides itself on inclusivity. This is the first half of a heavy but important conversation - please approach with care. 00:00 Music Photographer & Women's Rights Lawyer Faye03:23 The Reality of Women's Rights and Legal Protections09:11 The Impact of Social Media on Gender-Based Violence11:28 Cases or violence against Women in the Metal scene13:22 Fans defending predatory artists17:24 Other cases of violence against Women in Metal20:18 PARKWAY DRIVE and Accountability in the Metal Industry27:45 Understanding Different Forms of Violence against Women30:28 Men keeping other men accountable Find out more: Faye’s Photography and Videography work Find international resources around the topics of violence against women on NO MORE The NOTHING MORE incident through which Kiki met Faye We mention the digital assault case on Colllien Fernandes by her abuser Christian Ulmen PARKWAY DRIVE address firing merch manager who pleaded guilty of violence against women in an exemplary way MENTAL CRUELTY case ONE MORNING LEFT’s case MAKE THEM SUFFER’s former keyboardist Booka Nile’s case ARCHITECTS' 2024-controversy ARCHITECTS spoke about it a year later Types of Violence Against Women from UN Women - is missing political violence and obstetric violence DEVIL MAY CARE on Bleeding Metal And DEVIL MAY CARE’s post about Feminism Recorded on March 24th, 2026 live on Bleeding Metal’s YouTube and Kiki's Twitch channel. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

TRIGGER WARNING: Mental Health In this episode, Kiki hosts Podcast friend Bernie Lorig, a seasoned musician and host of The Band Show Podcast, to explore the significance of authenticity, self-reflection, and resilience in the dynamic landscape of the metal community. Let Bernie's insights inspire you to celebrate your milestones, embrace your authentic self, and continue evolving - both in your craft and your life. 00:00 Bleeding Metal welcomes Pod Friend Bernie Lorig03:09 The Evolution of The Band Show Podcast09:08 Modesty vs. Self-Recognition11:21 Change and Authenticity in Life and Music11:48 Learning from Metal Musicians through Journalism16:49 The Role of Recognition in Personal Development20:18 Bernie's Musical Journey and Influences28:15 GODSLAVE's Loss and Tribute30:58 Mental Health Awareness in Metal35:24 Reflections on The Complexity of Humanity40:30 Interviews and Connections in the Metal Scene Find out more: Bernie’s band GODSLAVE Bernie hosts The Band Show Podcast: The Band show episode with Kiki about promotion kits for bands The Band Show episode with Kiki about Human Rights in Metal Thank you for choosing life, even when it's most difficult. You're not alone. You matter, the world needs you. You can get the help you need: http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html HeartSupport is a non-profit that uses music to start conversations about #MentalHealth. Bernie recommends Humankind: A Hopeful History by Dutch historian Rutger Bregman. ‌ Recorded on March 30th, 2026 live on Bleeding Metal’s YouTube and Kiki's Twitch channel. Thumbnail photo by Da Noize Pics n' Arts Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from singer Jelena Dobric.

Kiki sits down with Massiel Pinzón (vocals/drums) and Juan Carlos “Poti” García de Paredes (guitars/vocals) from ALPHAWHORES. Their journey from Panama to headline tours across Europe is founded in authenticity, resilience, and the power of music that’s born from identity, not imitation. ALPHAWHORES shares how their Panamanian groove influences their songwriting and stage presence, and why embracing these roots enriches their sound in today’s oversaturated music scene. Tune in to discover as well, what kind of music they listen to that you’d never expect. 00:00 Interview with ALPHAWHORES at Bambi Galore in Hamburg02:36 Musical Upbringing and Influences06:28 Bringing the Latin Groove to Heavy Music09:40 Advice for Aspiring Musicians13:03 Gender Representation in Metal Music16:37 ALPHAWHORES love alfajores. Find out more: ALPHAWHORES' website Recommended: CALVA LOUISE’s episode of Bleeding Metal‌ Recorded on March 27th, 2026 at Bambi Galore in Hamburg. Special thanks to the camera man. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from PERSONA-singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Jelena Dobric, a renowned metal vocalist, vocal coach, and our very own jingle-screamer and dear friend of the Bleeding Metal Podcast, shares her life journey from Serbia to Tunisia and later Germany. Her latest musical project, Metalmorphix, is her innovative approach to creating a metal choir based on community. Discover her insightful stories from a musical upbringing and being part of an international band to discovering her joy and skill for teaching large groups of singers. 00:00 Finding Community with Jelena Dobric and Metalmorphix 04:35 Jelena's upbringing in Serbia and Musical Influences 07:30 Transitioning to Germany and New Beginnings 11:27 Teaching and Vocal Coaching in Germany 14:12 Metalmorphix: Building a Community Through Music 20:31 Building a Metal Choir 24:17 Community and Collaboration 28:28 Inspiration and Future Aspirations Find out more: Find Jelena Dobric on Instagram Metalmorphix Choir on Instagram The TV segment about Metalmorphix on NDR Kultur Jelena’s first appearance on Bleeding Metal (back when it was still Metal & High Heels) Britta Görtz fixes the Screamdudes Inspiration: Noa Gruman’s Hellscore choir Recorded on March 24th, 2026 live on Bleeding Metal’s YouTube and Kiki's Twitch channel. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Bleeding Metal podcast, Kiki welcomes Janine from VUKOVI to discuss her journey in music, empowerment, and the heavy music business. Janine reflects on her transition from musical theatre to rock music, and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in music. The conversation delves into the impact of VUKOVI’s music on their audience, with Janine sharing heartfelt stories of fans who have found solace and empowerment through their songs. The episode also touches on the rise of AI in music and the importance of maintaining human authenticity in artistic expression. 01:55 Janine's Early Life and Musical Influences08:51 Mental Health and the Power of Lyrics12:13 The Importance of Live Music and Community15:06 Navigating the Music Industry and its Challenges21:05 Balancing Creativity and Social Media22:18 Empowerment Through Music Find out more: VUKOVI's website Join VUKOVI’s Discord server Get tickets to VUKOVI’s full album playthrough of ”My God Has Got A Gun” in Manchester on September 19th, 2026 Recorded on January 15th, 2026 live on Bleeding Metal’s YouTube and Kiki's Twitch channel. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from PERSONA-singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

Kiki brings another friend to the Bleeding Metal Podcast to talk about all the interesting things he does. Félix Barros discusses his work in mapping musical cities like Valparaíso and Chile’s towering presence in Latin America’s metal scene. This episode will inspire you to rethink the power of music in revitalizing cities and communities worldwide, proving that great music infrastructure is a core factor in urban innovation and societal health. 03:12 Félix Barros: Background and Musical Journey 09:47 Transitioning to a Music Career 11:23 Formation of Pronoias and Band Dynamics 17:20 Moving to Finland and Professional Growth 20:06 Neural DSP and Career Developments 21:42 Metal Migration: The Allure of Finland 23:25 Geography's Influence on Metal Genres 26:25 Mapping Music Ecosystems Find out more: Find Félix Barros on Instagram Shane Shapiro and Sound Diplomacy Neural DSP Music City Map & Impact Reports Recorded on January 13th, 2026 on Kiki's Twitch channel: https://www.twitch.tv/kikigege87 Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kikigege87 with Riverside⁠: https://riverside.cello.so/2RL4orpNDx0 Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ (https://linktr.ee/SavvierNelson ) with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from PERSONA-singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/lady.morphix.

Kiki started the year with an engaging conversation with Justine from EMPLOYED TO SERVE, exploring a wide range of topics including Justine's musical journey, the evolution of music consumption, the role of women in metal, and the importance of community and activism within the genre. They discuss cancel culture, political views, and EMPLOYED TO SERVE's aspirations of world domination. 02:20 Justine's Musical Upbringing04:22 Nostalgia and the Evolution of Music Consumption09:11 Justine Jones on becoming a musician10:48 EMPLOYED TO SERVE's "Fallen Star" album collaborations12:22 Women in Metal and the Female perspective to Heavy Music16:47 Church Road Records and the diverse bands on its roster19:34 Heavy Metal Unity and Community2:06 Cancel Culture and Accountability in Metal27:10 Justine Jones on World Domination29:57 Upcoming Tours and Health Find out more: Check out EMPLOYED TO SERVE’s website And Church Road Records Recorded on January 6th, 2026 on Kiki's Twitch channel. Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki ⁠with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from PERSONA-singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.

In a new episode of Bleeding Metal’s Pod Friends series, host Kiki welcomes Crix, the creator of the Metal Pizza Talkshow and an Italian residing in Finland. Crix shares her journey making her dream move come true and becoming a physiotherapist and then a photographer and interviewer in the metal music scene. The conversation delves into her experiences with cultural differences, the challenges of societal expectations, and the importance of always learning. Crix also discusses her unique approach to interviewing artists, emphasizing the need for genuine connection and creativity in conversations, which we have in common. 00:00 Crix4e from Metal Pizza joins Kiki05:36 How Crix4e created the Metal Pizza Talk Show09:17 Crix4e's life and dream to move to Finland18:05 Navigating Societal Expectations on Age22:35 Crix4e's Journey into Metal Concert Photography24:53 Adventuring deeper into Metal Journalism30:24 Live Interviews at Tuska Forum by Bleeding Metal32:46 The Impact of Online Criticism Find out more: The Metal Pizza Talkshow with Kiki as a guest Find more of Crix4e’s work Tuska Forum by Bleeding 2025’s session in Finnish with Crix4e Recorded on November 21st, 2025 on Kiki's Twitch channel: https://www.twitch.tv/kikigege87 Bleeding Metal is hosted, produced, and edited by Kiki with Riverside⁠. Subscribe now to the Bleeding Metal Podcast wherever you listen and watch the video episodes on YouTube. Find more links on: https://linktr.ee/bleedingmetalpod Intro music by ⁠Savvier Nelson⁠⁠⁠ with vocals from himself and Kiki, as well as the familiar jingle vocals from PERSONA-singer Jelena Dobric⁠⁠⁠.