The Underwire Podcast

Unmasking the Self: Late Autism Diagnosis and the Power of Music with Dani Nightingale of Conjurer

On this episode, we’re diving into the powerful topic of self-exploration, identity, and finding clarity through creativity. Joining us is our special guest, Dani Nightingale — vocalist/guitarist of the UK metal band Conjurer on Nuclear Blast Records. Conjurer is known for their emotionally heavy, genre-blurring sound and their newest record, Unself, explores themes of belonging, identity, neurodivergence, and acceptance. Dani and I had never met before this conversation, but it felt like two people comparing notes on life — what it means to feel misunderstood, what it means to find community, and how creativity can help us make sense of the hardest parts of being human. Follow Conjurer on Instagram:  @conjureruk [https://www.instagram.com/conjureruk/] In this episode, we discuss Dani’s journey with metal music, their late-in-life autism diagnosis, the process of understanding themselves, and how Unself became a cathartic expression of everything they were piecing together. Dani opens up about loneliness, healing, friendship, deep gratitude, and the power of connection — and their honesty is going to hit home for a lot of people. WHAT WE’RE TALKING ABOUT: * The surprising emotional depth behind heavy music — and how Dani uses it to process what words can’t reach * How writing Unself helped Dani move through exhaustion, chaos, and self-acceptance * Receiving an autism diagnosis at 31 and finally understanding a lifetime of feeling “different” * The loneliness of being misunderstood — and the transformation that comes from finding real connection and community * The moment Dani realized they were proud of who they've become We hope this episode reminds you that you’re never as alone as you think, and that understanding yourself — truly understanding yourself — can bring more peace than you ever expected. If you’ve ever struggled with identity, belonging, neurodivergence, or feeling like the world wasn’t built for you, Dani’s honesty will land with you in a big way. Keywords: Conjurer, Unself, metal music, neurodivergence, autism diagnosis, self-discovery, healing, catharsis, creativity, mental wellness, connection, belonging Support the show [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] * Support The Underwire Podcast!: If you enjoy our episodes and would like to help keep the show running, consider supporting by "buying me a coffee [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] (it's like a Pateron).  You can donate $5 once or become a monthly member for only $5 or $10 at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Your support means the world and helps to continue bringing you inspiring content! * All links in LINKTREE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] <---! * Curious about 1:1 coaching? Start HERE [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?usp=sharing]! * If you liked this episode, please leave a comment, share and give a 5 star rating to help reach more listeners * Contact: * Email: TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com [TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com] * DM: TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial] on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial]

Play Isn’t Optional: The Secret Ingredient to a Happier Work Life (with Blake Cohen)

On this episode, we’re diving into the importance of play — and how bringing more joy, laughter, and connection into your work life might just be the key to creating a healthier, happier you. Joining us is our special guest, Blake Cohen. Blake is an incredible Corporate Speaker, TEDx Speaker, and Work Culture Expert whose mission is to transform workplace dynamics by fostering connection, purpose, and joy. He brings a powerful blend of lived experience and academic insight, currently pursuing his doctorate in Leadership and Organizational Psychology, with a master’s in Leadership and a bachelor’s in Psychology already under his belt. Before focusing on executive coaching, corporate speaking, and consulting, Blake worked in the mental health and recovery space, helping people rebuild their lives and rediscover purpose. He’s also a best-selling author and the host of The Workplace Wonderer podcast, where he explores what it really means to feel human at work. In our conversation, we talk about how leadership, culture, and authenticity all intersect — and why embracing play, laughter, and human connection in the workplace isn’t just “nice to have,” but essential for well-being. WHAT WE’RE TALKING ABOUT: * Why play and joy aren’t distractions — they’re powerful tools for better work * The link between leadership, trust, and company culture * How to recognize burnout and micromanagement * Blake’s journey from recovery to leadership * What neuroscience says about laughter, creativity, and connection at work * How to bring more fun, authenticity, and humanity into your day-to-day Blake's Links: * Visit Blake's website: https://blakeevancohen.com/ [https://blakeevancohen.com/] * Watch Blake's TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQF_kmOcJt0 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQF_kmOcJt0] * Follow Blake on Instagram: blake_e_cohen [https://www.instagram.com/blake_e_cohen/]  * Connect with Blake on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakecohenmscap/] Support the show [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] * Support The Underwire Podcast!: If you enjoy our episodes and would like to help keep the show running, consider supporting by "buying me a coffee [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] (it's like a Pateron).  You can donate $5 once or become a monthly member for only $5 or $10 at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Your support means the world and helps to continue bringing you inspiring content! * All links in LINKTREE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] <---! * Curious about 1:1 coaching? Start HERE [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?usp=sharing]! * If you liked this episode, please leave a comment, share and give a 5 star rating to help reach more listeners * Contact: * Email: TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com [TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com] * DM: TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial] on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial]

Why Productivity Tools Keep Failing Us - Building Solutions That Actually Work with Matt Canning

On this episode, we’re diving into why most productivity tools keep failing us—and the fix you didn’t know you needed. Ever feel like you’re working twice as hard just to keep up—like everyone else got the manual for life except you? The truth is, most “perfect” systems were never designed for how your brain actually works. In this episode, I’m joined by my longtime friend Matt Canning—a technologist, entrepreneur, ex–Fortune 50 executive, former touring musician, and the founder & CEO of NoPlex.ai, the first productivity and personal organization system built specifically for adults navigating ADHD and anxiety. We dive into: * Why traditional productivity tools miss the mark for so many people and why NoPlex is different * How to design systems that work with your brain instead of against it * The role of strengths, weaknesses, and the people you surround yourself with * The understanding that multi-millionaires are JUST people too * Plus, a mysterious musical talent of Matt's If you’ve ever felt like “staying organized” is an uphill battle—or you’re ready to ditch the one-size-fits-all approach to productivity—this episode is your permission slip to find a system that finally sticks. RESOURCES & LINKS: *  Check out NoPlex HERE! [https://www.noplex.ai/underwire] (and receive a complimentary coaching session for signing up!): * 🔗 https://www.noplex.ai/underwire [https://www.noplex.ai/underwire] * Follow NoPlex on Instagram: * 📸 noplex.ai — https://www.instagram.com/noplex.ai/ [https://www.instagram.com/noplex.ai/] * Join the NoPlex Reddit Community: *  👥 https://www.reddit.com/r/NoPlex/ [https://www.reddit.com/r/NoPlex/] Keywords: productivity tools, ADHD systems, personal organization, mental wellness, workflow design, NoPlex, productivity hacks, anxiety tools, systems that stick Support the show [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] * Support The Underwire Podcast!: If you enjoy our episodes and would like to help keep the show running, consider supporting by "buying me a coffee [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] (it's like a Pateron).  You can donate $5 once or become a monthly member for only $5 or $10 at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Your support means the world and helps to continue bringing you inspiring content! * All links in LINKTREE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] <---! * Curious about 1:1 coaching? Start HERE [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?usp=sharing]! * If you liked this episode, please leave a comment, share and give a 5 star rating to help reach more listeners * Contact: * Email: TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com [TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com] * DM: TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial] on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial]

This Is Not a Side Quest: DIY, Self-Doubt, & Doing the Damn Thing with Mike McGinnis

On this episode, we’re diving into what it really takes to build something from the ground up—creatively, consistently, and without a roadmap. Joining me is my good friend Mike McGinnis, a veteran of the South Jersey and Philly hardcore scene. Mike is the founder of Knife Hits Records and Heavy Claw Shipping, two self-made businesses rooted in the same DIY mentality that shaped him through years in the punk and hardcore scenes. Mike’s one of those people who just does the thing, and this convo pulls back the curtain on what it actually looks like to be your own boss, navigate self-doubt, make messy progress, and build something sustainable while staying true to who you are. He also shares how perfectionism might be the reason you’re stuck, and why just talking about your big idea isn’t the same as actually doing the damn thing. We also talk about the power of taking breaks, what to do when self-doubt creeps in, and how beating a rented video game in 36 hours (yes, really) might have been early training for the kind of grit it takes to run a business. Follow Mike and check out his work: * knifehitsrecords.com [https://knifehitsrecords.com] *   [https://heavyclaw.com]heavyclaw.com [http://heavyclaw.com] * Rid of Me [https://open.spotify.com/artist/46oDKZ4IE8CQaJWZ005rZP] on Spotify * Fight Amp [https://open.spotify.com/artist/0nksbyCiDk5MaJ9Hor85a4] on Spotify WHAT WE'RE TALKING ABOUT: * The origin stories behind Knife Hits Records & Heavy Claw Shipping * Owning your self-doubt without letting it run the show * How urgency culture and outside pressure can sabotage your decision-making * The power of small steps * How music + DIY ethics shaped his work ethic * Practical ways to reset your brain when you’re stuck * Why talking about ideas can be a sneaky trap A HUGE THANK YOU TO MY MONTHLY “BUY ME A COFFEE” SUPER SUPPORT SQUAD SUBSCRIBERS: * Chrissy Duffin * Sean Downing * ALL LINKS HERE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] * Instagram: @TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial/] * Now on TikTok!: @TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.tiktok.com/@theunderwireofficial] * 1:1 Coaching: START HERE to Learn More! [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?tab=t.0] Support the show [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] * Support The Underwire Podcast!: If you enjoy our episodes and would like to help keep the show running, consider supporting by "buying me a coffee [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] (it's like a Pateron).  You can donate $5 once or become a monthly member for only $5 or $10 at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Your support means the world and helps to continue bringing you inspiring content! * All links in LINKTREE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] <---! * Curious about 1:1 coaching? Start HERE [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?usp=sharing]! * If you liked this episode, please leave a comment, share and give a 5 star rating to help reach more listeners * Contact: * Email: TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com [TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com] * DM: TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial] on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial]

Sole to Soul: Sneakers, Spirituality, and Self-Discovery with Chase Maccini

From sneaker restoration to spiritual coaching, Chase Maccini’s story is a reminder that healing and transformation don’t always look the way we expect them to. Joining us is my friend Chase Maccini—a spiritual advisor, sneaker restorer, and one of the most thoughtful people I’ve had the chance to sit down with. Chase now lives in Australia, but we originally met through (yep, you guessed it) the hardcore music scene in Boston years ago. Since then, his journey has taken many turns—through entrepreneurship, deep healing, and powerful self-discovery. Follow Chase on Instagram: @xchasemaccini [http://www.instagram.com/xchasemaccini] Subscribe to Chase's YouTube Channel: xChaseMaccini [http://www.youtube.com/xchasemaccini] WHAT WE'RE TALKING ABOUT: * How Chase went from restoring sneakers to coaching spiritual alignment * The deeper meaning behind everyday routines * Spirituality without the fluff—real talk about intuition, ego, and energy * Moving to the other side of the world and trusting the unknown * Letting fear guide you without letting it lead you * Identity, self-worth, and the ongoing work of reconnecting with yourself * A few sneakerhead gems, favorite video games, and some solid music nostalgia If you’ve been feeling stuck, disconnected, or just ready to rethink the stories you’ve been telling yourself—this conversation is a heart check and a gentle push forward. A HUGE THANK YOU TO MY MONTHLY "BUY ME A COFFEE" SUPER SUPPORT SQUAD SUBSCRIBERS: * Chrissy Duffin * Sean Downing If you love the podcast and want to help keep it going, you can join the squad ($5 - $10 monthly subscription) or make a one-time contribution at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Every bit helps me continue creating content and bringing you amazing guests like Chase! Keywords: sneakers, spirituality, self-discovery, personal growth, energy work, identity, intuition, mindset, transformation, healing, presence, hardcore music, lifestyle * ALL LINKS HERE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] * Instagram: @TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial/] * Now on TikTok!: @TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.tiktok.com/@theunderwireofficial] * 1:1 Coaching: START HERE to Learn More! [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?tab=t.0] Support the show [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] * Support The Underwire Podcast!: If you enjoy our episodes and would like to help keep the show running, consider supporting by "buying me a coffee [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod] (it's like a Pateron).  You can donate $5 once or become a monthly member for only $5 or $10 at buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod [https://buymeacoffee.com/theunderwirepod]. Your support means the world and helps to continue bringing you inspiring content! * All links in LINKTREE [https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod] <---! * Curious about 1:1 coaching? Start HERE [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yn_-7FwP1tirruWoIgsy-oGPN8xPyNmxQnM4_wY8IlE/edit?usp=sharing]! * If you liked this episode, please leave a comment, share and give a 5 star rating to help reach more listeners * Contact: * Email: TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com [TheUnderwireOfficial@gmail.com] * DM: TheUnderwireOfficial [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial] on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theunderwireofficial]