SMAC’ TALK: Heartbreak, Healing & Honest Songwriting with Veronica Rain

SMAC’ TALK: Heartbreak, Healing & Honest Songwriting with Veronica Rain

SMAC’ TALK: Heartbreak, Healing & Honest Songwriting with Veronica Raine In Episode 22 of SMAC’ TALK, Seth and Mackenzie sit down with Lethbridge singer-songwriter Veronica Raine for a candid conversation about music, resilience, and the stories behind her songs. Veronica shares her journey from growing up in Southern Alberta to building momentum as an emerging artist, including her experiences in the YYC Songwriter Showdown, finding her musical community, and navigating the realities of balancing a full-time career with a growing music career. The conversation dives into the inspiration behind her latest single, “Moonlight,” a deeply personal reflection on love, sacrifice, and learning to find yourself again after a relationship ends. Along the way, the trio discusses everything from baseball fandoms and life in Lethbridge to viral social media moments, stage experiences, songwriting, self-defense stories, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision. Plus, Veronica closes out the episode with a live performance of “Moonlight.” Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment 🎶 Songs of the Week * Veronica Rain – Moonlight * Jessie Bird – Break It * Dan Davidson – Buckle Rubbin’ Follow Veronica Raine: 🎵 Spotify: Veronica Raine📱 Instagram: @veronicarainemusic🌐 www.veronicaraine.com [http://www.veronicarain.com]

SMAC’ TALK: Championing Local Music with Mackenzie Meyer

SMAC’ TALK: Championing Local Music with Mackenzie Meyer (Episode 25) Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with CBC Calgary Eyeopener producer and local music champion Mackenzie Meyer. From spotlighting over 200 Alberta artists through CBC’s Local Music Project to judging major music awards across Canada, Mackenzie has become one of the biggest advocates for emerging artists in the province. We dive into: * How the CBC Local Music Project started during COVID * Discovering and supporting Calgary’s growing music scene * The power of storytelling in songwriting * Behind-the-scenes insights into music journalism and radio * Her experience judging the JUNOs, Polaris Music Prize, CCMAs, and more * Favorite local artists, venues, concerts, and unforgettable music moments Plus, we talk secret shows, Guns N’ Roses, Nickelback, Shawn Mendes, and why Calgary’s music community continues to thrive. Songs of the Week: * Jessie Dans – Daisies * Marina Joyce – Let Me Go * Dempsey Bolton – Orange Mist 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.

SMAC’ TALK: Where Does Your Belly Button Lint Come From? with Brett Cassidy

SMAC’ TALK: Where Does Your Belly Button Lint Come From?with Brett Cassidy Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with Calgary’s own Brett Cassidy—artist, multi-instrumentalist, and one of the most genuine voices in the local music scene. From his early days discovering AC/DC to fronting multiple projects and carving out his own lane as a solo artist, Brett shares his journey through music, creativity, and self-discovery. We dive into: * The transition from rock roots to folk storytelling * Balancing multiple bands and creative identities * The realities of gigging, saying yes (and no), and building a career in music * His upcoming full-length album and evolving sound * Why songwriting is equal parts instinct and patience Plus, Brett gives us a glimpse into his creative process, life on stage, and what’s next—including new music on the way. Songs of the Week: * Bennett Mitchell – 95 * Chixdiggit – I Wanna Hump You * Paige Rutledge – Ruin Your Bar 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio.

SMAC’ TALK: Supporting the Scene with Matthew Kramer

SMAC’ TALK: Supporting the Scene with Matthew Kramer Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment This week on SMAC’ TALK, we sit down with Matthew Kramer, owner of Horizon Heating and title sponsor of the YYC Songwriter Showdown. Matthew shares the story behind taking over a second-generation business, how the HVAC industry has evolved over the years, and how his connection to music—through CKUA and community support—led him to become a passionate advocate for Calgary’s live music scene. We also talk about: * The evolution of Horizon Heating and running a family business * Supporting local music through CKUA and live events * The impact of COVID on live music and audiences * The realities of venues, ticket pricing, and artist sustainability * Why initiatives like the YYC Songwriter Showdown matter Plus, a deeper look at Calgary’s music ecosystem—what’s working, what’s missing, and where things can grow. Songs of the Week: * The Mocking Shadows – Try Me * Kate Reid – Walked into a Bar * Sammy Volkov – Strangest Thing 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio.

S'MAC TALK: Finding Your Voice with Jaiden Riley

S'MAC TALK: Finding Your Voice with Jaiden Riley Sponsored by Happy Ending Divorce and Separation Powered by Blue Willow Entertainment This week on S'MAC TALK, we sit down with rising country artist Jaiden Riley. Jaiden shares her journey from growing up immersed in music and storytelling to finding her voice as an artist today. We dive into the influence of her Métis roots, the importance of authenticity on stage, and the process behind her debut single “Chickens in the Trailer Park.” We also talk about: * Navigating personal growth and identity * The role of storytelling in songwriting * Building a band and creative team * What success looks like in today’s music industry Plus, Jaiden opens up about vulnerability in performance, trusting your instincts, and creating music that truly connects. Songs of the Week: * The Dudes – Mr. Someone Else * Kirsten Pfeifer – Till You Come Along * Matt Blais – Memories of You 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeartRadio