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Content Disclaimer: This episode includes heartfelt discussions of death, grief, traumatic loss, and navigating life after losing a loved one. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode of Caught On The Mike, I sit down with singer-songwriter Andy Gruhin to explore the deeply personal story behind his debut album, Hannah. Written in the aftermath of losing his wife six months after the birth of their son, Hannah is more than a collection of songs about loss. It's an honest look at what happens after life changes forever and the complicated process of learning to live, love, and find joy again. Andy opens up about the inspiration behind “Bobby,” his heartfelt ode to his son featuring Alejandro Aranda (American Idol, Scarypoolparty), and how fatherhood has shaped his perspective on grief, memory, and the future. We also explore the emotional weight of “Fear of Flying,” the vulnerability behind “PTSD,” and the role songwriting played in processing experiences that words alone can struggle to explain. We get into the intersection of classic songwriting, alternative rock, and modern emo, along with the challenges of inviting other artists into such personal material. Hannah features collaborations with Alejandro Aranda, Underoath's Aaron Gillespie, Arnie Woods, and Elijah Gibb, bringing additional dimensions to an already deeply personal record. What stood out to me throughout this conversation is Andy's willingness to talk about grief without pretending it comes with easy answers. We discuss the things we carry, the people who shape us, and the possibility of moving forward without leaving love behind. It's a conversation about vulnerability, fatherhood, healing, and learning to embrace the life that remains, even when that life looks nothing like the one we imagined. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode, I sat down with Anastasia Grace Haunt and Maxamillion “Max” Haunt of The Haunt to talk about a journey that began when they were kids making music together and has grown into an internationally touring alt-rock duo with a rapidly expanding global audience. We talked about what it was like growing up in music, playing shows and touring at such a young age, and the moment they began to realize The Haunt was becoming more than just a project between siblings. We also dug into the evolution of their sound, the importance of staying true to their creative instincts, and the vulnerability that has always been at the heart of their songwriting. From there, we got into New Addiction and how the experiences behind that record helped shape the band they are today. We also talked about their upcoming sophomore album Ghost, the darker and more cinematic direction of the new record, and the creative process behind bringing these songs to life. Anastasia and Max also opened up about their new single “Seasonal Depression,” the emotion behind the song, and how they balance deeply personal subject matter with a sound that continues to grow heavier and more expansive. With Ghost arriving October 30 via Nettwerk and The Ghost Tour bringing The Haunt to The Waiting Room in Omaha on October 13, this conversation gave me the opportunity to look beyond the music and talk about the people, experiences and creative evolution behind one of alt-rock's most intriguing sibling duos. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

I’m honored to welcome Russ Rankin to Caught On The Mike. As the longtime frontman of Good Riddance, Russ has spent decades creating music rooted in urgency, conviction, and an unmistakable punk rock spirit. But this conversation is about where he is right now. With Good Riddance releasing Before The World Caves In earlier this year and Russ now releasing his new solo EP, A Season In Hell, there’s a lot happening creatively. We talk about the freedom of creating outside of Good Riddance, the personal themes behind songs like “What Brand Of Hell,” and his decision to transform The Records’ “Starry Eyes” into a heavier, faster version that carries his hardcore DNA. We also get into songwriting, poetry, finding inspiration in unexpected places, and what continues to push Russ forward after more than three decades of making music. Getting the opportunity to have this conversation with someone whose music has meant so much to so many people was genuinely an honor. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with filmmaker, screenwriter and former Sunset Strip rocker Craig A. Williams, co-director of If These Walls Could Rock, the documentary exploring the legendary Sunset Marquis and its six decades at the center of rock ’n’ roll history. Craig’s connection to the Marquis goes back more than a decade, when he was first brought in to tell the story of the iconic West Hollywood hotel. What he discovered was far more than a collection of wild rock-star stories. The Sunset Marquis became a rare sanctuary where artists could escape the spotlight, create, connect and simply be themselves. We get into how a relatively hidden hotel became part of the stories of Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Slash, Dave Grohl, Cyndi Lauper, Sheryl Crow, Morrissey and countless other artists. We also talk about the challenge of separating rock ’n’ roll mythology from the stories that could actually be documented, some of the unbelievable moments that didn't make the final film, and what Craig learned from spending years surrounded by this incredible history. But at the heart of If These Walls Could Rock is an unexpected story about family. We talk about founder George Rosenthal and his son Mark, whose complicated relationship ultimately became an important part of the hotel's story and gives the documentary an emotional center beyond the sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll. Craig also shares what it was like to return to a place he once dreamed about as a teenage musician on the Sunset Strip and ultimately become one of the people responsible for telling its story. If These Walls Could Rock is ultimately about much more than a hotel. It’s about music, creativity, community, privacy, legacy and the places that become part of our stories. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode of Caught On The Mike, I’m talking with sFox, the multi-instrumentalist and producer behind the mysterious creative project MASKS. MASKS recently released its debut EP, First Life, a five-track introduction to a much larger universe that extends beyond music into graphic novels, visual storytelling and online content. sFox uses the literal mask as an “ego hack,” creating distance between the artist and the work so the music can exist without the distractions that often come with identity and expectation. We talk about the philosophy behind MASKS, the influence of artists like Peter Gabriel, The Blue Nile and Doves, the idea of music being something to inhabit rather than simply understand, and the creative process behind “Every Little Light,” the final song to arrive for First Life. This is a conversation about anonymity, ego, storytelling, world-building and what happens when an artist chooses to let the art speak before the artist does. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode of Caught On The Mike, I sit down with Stand Atlantic for a conversation about their evolution, finding their identity after more than a decade together, and the freedom that comes with finally being comfortable with who you are. We talk about the band's new era, the decision to embrace happiness and genuine connection in their songwriting, and the raw, live approach they took while making their upcoming fifth album, GODBREATH. Stand Atlantic released their latest single, “NEXT2U,” on September 25. The song puts a different spin on the traditional love song, focusing on chosen family, friendship, homesickness, and the people who make you feel at home when you're away. “NEXT2U” is the final single ahead of GODBREATH, which arrives October 23 via Virgin Music Group. We also talk about longevity versus chasing viral moments, staying authentic in an increasingly processed music landscape, and what the next chapter looks like for a band that has already built a global audience with more than 500 million streams and tours alongside artists including A Day To Remember, I Prevail, Simple Plan, Story of the Year and Silverstein. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Sam Hoyos of Long Island power pop and punk band Playing Dead to talk about the band’s latest chapter and their new split EP with Best Bones, arriving September 15. Playing Dead has spent years developing a sound built around big guitars, infectious melodies, harmonies, and unforgettable hooks while pulling influence from punk, indie rock, garage rock, and power pop. On the new split EP, the band takes a more sentimental approach with “Going Back Home” and “Two Fourteen,” two songs that explore a more personal and emotional side of Playing Dead. Sam and I talk about the songwriting behind the new songs, how Playing Dead has continued evolving throughout its extensive catalog, and why melody and a great chorus remain at the center of everything they do. We also dig into Sam’s unique songwriting process, the influence of bands like The Get Up Kids, Lemonheads, Superdrag, Samiam, and Face to Face, and the challenges of building an audience as an independent band in today’s music landscape. We also get into the Long Island music community, the importance of peer respect within an underground scene, Playing Dead’s DIY approach, their recent shows with artists including Chuck Ragan, Codefendants, and Gracer, and what comes next for a band that continues creating music simply because they love doing it. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

On this episode, I sit down with Raynes to talk about one of the most unconventional band origin stories I’ve come across. What started with Mat and Joe discovering Mark through an Instagram video eventually became a band, a nine year journey, millions of streams, international touring, and the release of their debut album, Radio Remind Me. We talk about how Raynes found their unique blend of alternative pop, rock, electronic music, and cinematic songwriting, along with the personal experiences behind songs like Josephine and Roses All Over. We also get into the themes of nostalgia, memory, self worth, comparison, ambition, and the pressure that comes with chasing a dream for nearly a decade. I also wanted to know what happens when the dream you have spent years pursuing finally starts becoming reality. From discovering each other online to playing major festivals and building an international audience, Raynes have created a story that is just as interesting as the music itself. This conversation is about music, memory, ambition, friendship, and the strange journey of figuring out who you are while trying to become the artist you always wanted to be. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Drew McManus, the artist behind Satsang, to talk about his new album ELOHIM and the experiences that shaped both the music and the person behind it. Drew and I get into the evolution of Satsang, finding purpose through music, personal transformation, spirituality, fatherhood, recovery, faith, creativity and what happens when an artist allows life experience to become part of the work. We also talk about the making of ELOHIM, the meaning behind the album, and how Drew continues to grow as a songwriter and performer while building a deeper connection with his audience. This conversation goes beyond the typical new album interview. We talk about the highs and lows that come with creating a life and career on your own terms, the lessons that come with getting older, and the idea that sometimes the music we create reflects the person we are still becoming. For me, that's what makes conversations like this so meaningful. I'm always interested in what makes people who they are, what shaped them along the way, and how those experiences ultimately find their way into their art. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode, I’m joined by Matty Mullins and Christian McAlhaney of Anberlin for a conversation about the band’s next chapter and their new album, Currency. I’ve been a longtime fan of Anberlin, and I’ve also followed the work these two have done outside the band, including Christian’s time with Acceptance and Matty’s career as the frontman of Memphis May Fire. I previously had Stephen Christian on Caught on the Mike about two years ago, so this conversation also gave me an opportunity to revisit Anberlin’s story from a completely different perspective. We talk about Currency, the songwriting and recording process behind the album, the decision to revisit older unfinished material, and how Anberlin continues to evolve while maintaining the DNA that has defined the band for nearly 25 years. Matty and Christian also get into the themes of hope, perseverance, identity and reinvention that run throughout the record, including the singles “Neverafter” and “Trenches,” which features Switchfoot. We also talk about Anberlin’s legacy, the importance of allowing a band to grow without running away from its past, the creative chemistry within the current lineup, collaborating with outside writers, and what it means to discover Anberlin for the first time in 2026. For me, this conversation is ultimately about something bigger than a new album. It’s about what happens when artists have the opportunity to take everything they’ve learned from the past and use it to create something that still feels alive in the present. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

ZEBRAHEAD | STILL LOUD, STILL HUNGRY, STILL CHARGING FORWARD Three decades into their career, zebrahead has absolutely no interest in slowing down. On this episode of Caught on the Mike, I’m joined by vocalist/rapper Ali Tabatabaee and vocalist/guitarist Adrian Estrella of zebrahead for a conversation about longevity, evolution, DIY independence, life on the road, and what keeps a band going after nearly 30 years. Formed during the legendary Orange County punk explosion, zebrahead has built a career that includes more than two million albums sold worldwide, a Grammy nomination for their collaboration with Motörhead, major festival appearances around the globe, and an incredibly dedicated international fanbase. We also dig into the band's new O EP, the final installment in their ambitious III, II, I, O conceptual series. Ali and Adrian talk about pushing the band's sound further, blending punk energy, hip-hop swagger, metallic riffs and huge melodies, and why they believe these new songs could be some of the best they've ever written. We get into what it was like for Adrian to step into a band with such a massive history, how zebrahead's decision to embrace a fully DIY approach changed the way they operate, the band's incredible relationship with international fans, and why the live show continues to be at the heart of everything they do. After three decades, countless lineup changes, a constantly shifting music industry and thousands of shows, zebrahead isn't looking backward. They're still evolving. They're still having fun. And they're still ready to kick ass. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

What happens when you refuse to let doubt, adversity, or other people’s expectations determine who you become? On this episode of Caught on the Mike, I’m joined by Evaride, the alternative rock duo of Sean Michael Murray and Hayden Maringer, as we dive into their incredible journey and the powerful new chapter they're entering with their latest single, “Can’t Take It From Me.” We talk about the inspiration behind the soaring new anthem and why its message goes far beyond simply proving your critics wrong. Sean and Hayden open up about resilience, self-belief, pursuing your purpose, and what it means to keep chasing the dream when life gives you every reason to settle. Sean shares stories from a career that has taken him from Broadway productions of American Idiot and RENT to the world of Evaride, while Hayden talks about his experiences as a guitarist, producer, composer, music director, and performer—and how all of those experiences have shaped the band's evolving sound. We also get into Evaride's incredible history of having their music featured alongside some of the biggest moments in sports and television, including the Olympics, World Cup, MLB World Series, NBA Finals, NCAA March Madness, Stanley Cup and NFL broadcasts. And, of course, we talk about what's next. With a new visual identity, a new creative chapter, and “Can’t Take It From Me” serving as a declaration of independence and resilience, Evaride is making it clear that they're not done evolving. If you've ever been told to lower your expectations, abandon the dream, or become someone you're not, this conversation is for you. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

In this episode of Caught on the Mike, I sit down with filmmaker, storyteller, and longtime 90210 superfan Pete Ferriero for a conversation that goes far beyond pizza. Pete is the filmmaker behind the new documentary The Best Pizza Is in LA, an entertaining and heartfelt exploration of Los Angeles’ incredible pizza culture and his mission to prove that LA deserves a place in the conversation when it comes to the world's best pizza. We go behind the scenes of the film, the people Pete brought along for the journey, and what happens when a personal obsession turns into a documentary. But there’s plenty more on the menu. Pete and I talk about our shared love of Beverly Hills, 90210, Peanuts, music, nostalgia, Anthony Bourdain, filmmaking, and the strange ways that seemingly unrelated interests can connect people. We also look ahead at some of Pete’s upcoming projects, including a documentary exploring the Wizard of Oz-themed theme park experience and a deeply touching documentary centered around the life and legacy of the late Tim Curry. What started as a conversation about a documentary quickly became a conversation about the things we’re passionate about, the stories we feel compelled to tell, and the people we meet along the way. I’m also proud to say that Pete has gone from being a guest on my podcast to someone I now consider a friend. From pizza and pop culture to nostalgia and storytelling, this is one of those conversations that reminds me exactly why I love doing Caught on the Mike. The Best Pizza Is in LA is available via TVOD. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

Sitting On Saturn joins Caught on the Mike for a conversation about friendship, evolution, life on the road, and a band entering one of the most exciting chapters of its career. Hoyt Yeatman, Kyle Hart and Trevor Smith take us all the way back to the beginning — meeting as kids at Rock Nation, discovering their shared passion for music, forming a band, and eventually cutting their teeth in the San Diego scene. We talk about the early days, the evolution from Sitting On Stacy to Sitting On Saturn, and the experiences that helped take them from local shows and house parties to some seriously big stages. From there, we jump into what's happening right now. The guys talk about their recent run of shows, including sharing stages with 311, Dirty Heads and Ocean Alley, as well as the completely unique experience of performing with the Savannah Bananas at Petco Park. We get into what makes those shows different, how their live performance has evolved, and what it's like watching the opportunities continue to get bigger. And then there's the music. Their latest single, “Deeper Blue,” is out now, with two more singles scheduled to arrive later this year. We talk about the direction they're heading creatively, what fans can expect from those upcoming releases, and the band's next full-length record, tentatively scheduled for February. It's a conversation about three longtime friends who have grown up together, built a band together, and are still pushing themselves to see how far they can take it. www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]

Blue October’s Matt Noveskey | 20 Years of Foiled, 1.5 Billion Streams & a Full-Circle Journey Some interviews are about meeting someone for the first time. This one is about reconnecting with a story that has been part of mine for more than 25 years. I first saw Blue October at Rock Fest 2000 in Omaha, Nebraska—a legendary lineup featuring 311, Stone Temple Pilots, Incubus, Papa Roach, Nickelback and more. Months later, I opened for Blue October at the Ranch Bowl and eventually several more times, including at the Music Box. There was even a day spent hanging out at Fun-Plex before one of their Omaha shows. Then, in 2006, Justin Furstenfeld unexpectedly showed up at my band’s show at Knickerbockers in Lincoln. He loved our set, gave us Blue October’s manager’s number, and asked if we wanted to tour. That opportunity ultimately became one of the moments that changed the trajectory of my band. Years later, I found myself working security when Blue October returned to Lincoln. Now, more than 25 years after I first saw the band, I sit down with bassist Matt Noveskey. We talk about Blue October’s early days, the road to Foiled, the explosive success of “Hate Me” and “Into the Ocean,” the challenges that came with that success, and what has allowed the band to remain creatively relevant nearly three decades later. We also dive into the 20th anniversary of Foiled, the album’s lasting impact, Blue October’s connection with generations of fans, and the incredible milestone of their catalog surpassing 1.5 billion streams. For me, this conversation is more than an interview. It’s a full-circle moment with a band whose story has intersected with mine in ways I never could have predicted back in 2000. Listen. Watch. Subscribe. Follow Caught on the Mike. Find everything Caught on the Mike: https://linktr.ee/CaughtontheMike www.caughtonthemike.com [email protected]