From Opening for GWAR to Leading the Midwest Doom Coalition: Shane Murray’s Journey Forward

From Opening for GWAR to Leading the Midwest Doom Coalition: Shane Murray’s Journey Forward

In the 7th episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, join host, Joshua Zeck, and his guest, Shane “The General” Murray—guitarist, songwriter, and concert promoter from Lawrence, Kansas, and leader of the cosmic stoner doom band They Watch Us From The Moon. Shane shares his journey through the Midwest music scene, from his earliest musical memories to founding the Midwest Doom Coalition, a network supporting up-and-coming bands. Discover how Shane’s experiences in bands like Slack Jaw, Creeper, and Truth Cell shaped his approach to music and community. Hear wild stories about opening for GWAR, collaborating with legendary keyboardist Tommy Stephenson (Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh), and the origins of They Watch Us From The Moon’s theatrical, sci-fi-inspired performances. The episode also dives into the challenges of self-promotion, building a musical legacy, and the importance of community in the DIY music world. Your host also discusses How to Know a Person by David Brooks and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.  Whether you’re a fan of punk, doom, or stoner rock, or just love stories of perseverance and creativity, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a celebration of underground music culture. Resources: Midwest Doom Coalition | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1497618267610137] Official TWUFTM (@theywatchusfromthemoon) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/theywatchusfromthemoon/?hl=en] They Watch Us from the Moon! | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/artist/78OgWCM6shVzMgJ69UgJqu] Music | They Watch Us From the Moon [https://theywatchusfromthemoon.bandcamp.com/music]   Keywords: Shane Murray, They Watch Us From The Moon, Midwest Doom Coalition, Lawrence Kansas music, stoner doom, punk rock, concert promotion, GWAR, Tommy Stephenson, cosmic rock, band networking, DIY music, legacy, music community, Morning Almonds podcast. the Outhouse, the Bottleneck, Mammoth Productions Bands Mentioned in This Episode: * They Watch Us From The Moon * Slack Jaw * Creeper * Truth Cell * GWAR * Dead Kennedys * Scorpions * Queen * Circle Jerks * Black Flag * Sleep * Clutch * Kyuss * Hawkwind * Sleep * St. Vitus * Monster Magnet * Holy Ghost * Wormwood * Samothrace * Castle Rat * Cocknoose * Godhead * High Desert Queen * Spirit Mother * Bongzilla * Dope Throne * Red Beard Wall * The Bad Ideas * Low Forest * Reptile House

The Ultimate Christmas Vacation Quiz!!!!

Ep 6:🎄 Welcome to a special holiday edition of the Morning Almonds Podcast! In this festive episode, host Joshua Zeck brings you the “Ultimate Christmas Vacation Quiz,” inspired by the classic film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for some holiday fun, this interactive quiz is perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in. You’ll also hear about the importance of giving back through the Salvation Army Angel Tree campaign, a creative way to make a difference this season. Plus, get access to printable quiz questions and answer sheets—perfect for your next Christmas event! Tune in for: * 100 fun and challenging Christmas Vacation trivia questions * Tips for using the quiz at your holiday party or family night * A personal challenge to support children in need through the Angel Tree program * Reflections on the true spirit of the holidays Don’t miss this joyful, community-focused episode packed with Christmas cheer, movie nostalgia, and practical ways to spread kindness. Subscribe to the Morning Almonds podcast for more episodes on music, food, storytelling, and honest conversation. RESOURCES & LINKS: SALVATION ARMY/WALMART Angel Tree Campaign [https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/walmart-angel-tree/] Quiz Questions [https://docs.google.com/document/d/16F9b74ejL4IGrjUuD853xH22HY62PVRcwnjtrdMyy78/edit?usp=sharing] Quiz Answer Key [https://docs.google.com/document/d/14ej9WEezQVDeKRDZteFC-81KILJTzeBG8DS9puYokJk/edit?usp=sharing] Keywords: Christmas Vacation quiz, holiday trivia, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Christmas podcast, Angel Tree campaign, Salvation Army, holiday party ideas, family Christmas games, Christmas traditions, giving back, Morning Almonds podcast. Listen now and make your holiday season brighter!

How Life Changed My Music: A Journey of Music and Memories

Ep 5: In this heartfelt episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, we dive deep into the transformative power of music and how it shapes our lives plus the psychology of music in public. Host Joshua Zeck shares personal stories, from childhood memories of Neil Diamond, Prince, Roy Orbison, and Dion, to discovering the raw energy of live music.  Explore the evolution from worship songs and classic rock to the rebellious sounds of KRS-One, Boogie Down Productions, Public Enemy, Tribe Called Quest, and the genre-bending styles of 311. Relive the magic of live shows with bands like Steppenwolf, Wilco, Typo Negative, No Doubt, PJ Harvey, Bush, Goo Goo Dolls, The Urge, Reverend Horton Heat and more. Josh reminisces about the 90s music scene, he also shares stories from legendary festivals like Lollapalooza, featuring Metallica, Soundgarden, Rancid, Ramones, Cocteau Twins, Screaming Trees, Ben Folds Five, and Sponge. Discover new favorites as Josh discusses recent listens: The Revivalists, Magic City Hippies, Thievery Corporation, Stick Figure, Tosca, John Kennedy, Coyote Island, East Forest, Gramatik, Moderator, Aesop Rock, Fugazi, and more. Plus, hear about unforgettable concerts with Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, Ween, Long Beach Dub All Stars, Pato Banton, Poppy, Jane’s Addiction, and Smashing Pumpkins. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, rap, ska, grunge, or indie, this episode is a celebration of music’s power to connect, heal, and inspire. RESOURCES & LINKS: https://open.spotify.com/user/31rxkfdyo4httmnywjmf53t5xypq?si=ecbbe3603cbb45b4 JZ - playlist by J Zeck | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/06rAEylJoU0lieOC0P9PWf] JZ AM - playlist by J Zeck | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2JY6VxF8L59gQx5iHa9DME] Don't De-Rock Me - song and lyrics by Tesla | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/track/0LwxwFlzKeMn3Nn4h2hdQT] Paw | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/artist/07M4wKkcUfwO9oonOxT7L2] Alchemy of the Heart - Album by Ram Dass, David Starfire | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/album/3vM0V5EXeag0uMOUPOI2aG] Misfits of Ska I - Compilation by Various Artists | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/album/4BjAkhj99HxTwF4Omefpek] Music (The Angels Fly Because They Take Themselves Lightly) • Akira The Don, Alan Watts [https://open.spotify.com/track/3dr8PzwS05ajM6dMr94jnl]   Keywords: Ween, Neil Diamond, Prince, Roy Orbison, Dion, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, NWA, KRS-One, Boogie Down Productions, Public Enemy, Tribe Called Quest, 311, Sublime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Steppenwolf, Wilco, Type O Negative, No Doubt, PJ Harvey, Bush, Goo Goo Dolls, The Urge, Reverend Horton Heat, Tripping Daisy, Paw, Godzillionaire, Stick, Tenderloin, Slackjaw, Salty Iguanas, Kill Creek, Morphine, Soul Coughing, Cake, Radiohead, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Matthew Sweet, Tesla, Lollapalooza, Metallica, Soundgarden, Rancid, Ramones, Cocteau Twins, Screaming Trees, Ben Folds Five, Sponge, The Revivalists, Magic City Hippies, Thievery Corporation, Stick Figure, Tosca, John Kennedy, Coyote Island, East Forest, Moderator, Aesop Rock, Fugazi, Les Claypool, Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, Long Beach Dub All Stars, Pato Banton, Poppy, Jane’s Addiction, Smashing Pumpkins.

Intro to the Four Agreements with Professor Christina Gentzsch

Episode Four of the Morning Almonds Podcast, "Intro to the Four Agreements," is where we begin to explore the life-changing wisdom of Don Miguel Ruiz’s bestselling book, "The Four Agreements." Host Joshua Zeck is joined by special guest Christina Gentzsch, who brings her unique perspective and personal experiences to the conversation. Together, we break down the Four Agreements—Be Impeccable with Your Word, Don’t Take Anything Personally, Don’t Make Assumptions, and Always Do Your Best—and discuss how these principles can lead to greater personal growth, self-improvement, and fulfillment. Christina shares insightful stories and practical tips for applying these agreements in everyday life, making this episode a must-listen for anyone on a journey of self-discovery. Tune in to this engaging podcast episode to learn how you can transform your mindset, relationships, and overall well-being with the Four Agreements. Perfect for fans of personal development, mindfulness, and those seeking actionable advice from inspiring guests.   Resources & Links: Iowa Cellist [https://www.christinacgcello.com/] Dynamic Music Studios LLC | Music Lessons | Coralville, IA [https://www.dynamicmusicstudiosia.com/] BetterHelp - Get Started & Sign-Up Today [https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true&utm_content=133524759310&utm_source=AdWords&utm_medium=Search_PPC_c&utm_term=betterhelp_b&network=g&placement=&target=&matchtype=b&utm_campaign=15234220559&ad_type=text&adposition=&kwd_id=kwd-299033048821&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=15234220559&gbraid=0AAAAADqBHiaD3eU8b495_CALLsOuaeRMo&gclid=CjwKCAiA2svIBhB-EiwARWDPjjyEroblS3ZOQ7p0GSo6LpQ4up7aFgPHIK9Q2QFRnIf1HAu7GaXpYxoCgMIQAvD_BwE¬_found=1&gor=start] T-Rex plays the cello! [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZolvbrayuQs] The Sign - song and lyrics by Ace of Base | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/track/0hrBpAOgrt8RXigk83LLNE] Da Ya Think I'm Sexy? - song and lyrics by Rod Stewart | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/track/4z7maGZkAonDlXlwo8q69f] don Miguel Ruiz [https://www.miguelruiz.com/]  The Four Agreements Official Website [https://www.thefouragreements.com/] Abraham-Hicks Publications - Law of Attraction Official Site [https://www.abraham-hicks.com/] Excerpt: The Power of Now A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment - Eckhart Tolle | Official Site - Spiritual Teachings and Tools For Personal Growth and Happiness [https://eckharttolle.com/power-of-now-excerpt/] Morning Almonds FB page: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582855046198]   Keywords: The Four Agreements, Don Miguel Ruiz, podcast, personal growth, self-improvement, guest interview, mindfulness, self-mastery, Rod Stewart, T-Rex, BetterHelp,

Drum Luck – Inside the Lawrence, KS Music Scene with drummer Dave Melody of Slack Jaw & More

For the third episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, welcome to Drum Luck featuring drummer Dave Melody! Dive into the heart of the Lawrence, Kansas music scene as host Joshua Zeck and Dave explore the nourishing power of music, the journey of a working musician, and the raw impact of live performance. From stories of legendary venues and bands like SlackJaw, Truth Cell, and The Border Band, to insights on drumming, resilience, and the evolution of local music, this episode is packed with inspiration for musicians, music lovers, and anyone seeking creative nourishment. Discover how luck, preparation, and community shape a musician’s path. Don’t miss Dave’s reflections on family, food, and the importance of supporting local artists. Subscribe for more honest conversations, storytelling, and music culture! Resources & Links: * Hurajan - Album by Truth Cell | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/album/44dIoKiJZ5TfgD1zx0ngfB] * The Border Band | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/artist/3xf95nqsKn4C3fZHvtLWyk]     * They Watch Us from the Moon! | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/artist/78OgWCM6shVzMgJ69UgJqu] * @theywatchusfromthemoon on instagram * http://theywatchusfromthemoon.bandcamp.com/ [http://theywatchusfromthemoon.bandcamp.com/] * Fluctorock [https://fluctorock.com/] * https://youtube.com/@automaticwolf6009?si=rQzWo3Jmi5VvGqaH [https://youtube.com/@automaticwolf6009?si=rQzWo3Jmi5VvGqaH] * The Gothic Cowboy-Melvin Litton-Border Band [https://borderband.com/] * Morning Almonds Facebook Page: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582855046198] * Promo pics, flyers, and more in the show notes on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582855046198] Keywords: Lawrence Kansas music, drummer Dave Melody, Morning Almonds podcast, Slack Jaw, Truth Cell, Border Band, local music scene, drumming journey, live music, musician resilience, music podcast, creative nourishment, Flucto, They Watch Us from the Moon, Automatic Wolf, the Outhouse, the Bottleneck, 311, Chad Sexton, Clutch, Rush, William S. Burroughs    Time Stamps:  00:01:27 Welcome Dave and earliest musical memory 00:06:39 What a Rush!!!! 00:12:58 Lay back on the beat 00:15:54 SlackJaw/90’s LFK 00:33:04 Stepping Stones/Practice makes Progress 00:49:06 Food and Gigs!!!! 01:02:55 Gutter punk incident 01:12:20 Musical Nourishment 01:18:00 My son! My wife! 01:26:36 Current projects 01:41:04 William S. Burrough’s/the Outhouse 01:46:27 Wrapping up: Luck is the residue of design 01:48:58 CTA/Outro