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LaunchLeft

LaunchLeft

By: LaunchLeft and Kast Media
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LaunchLeft is a music discovery podcast where famed creatives launch emerging artists. Hosted by Rain Phoenix you can expect in-depth conversations with well-known musicians discussing their process and, throwing light to emerging artists. LaunchLeft is an alliance of artists who break from the norm and lean into the unique. We enlist famed creatives to launch emerging artists. For full video episodes go to LaunchLeft.com/Podcast

2023 LaunchLeft and Kast Media Music Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • RAIN PHOENIX launches Evelyn Frances

    RAIN PHOENIX launches Evelyn Frances
    Dec 16 2025
    It’s time to turn the tables in this special episode of LaunchLeft. Rain Phoenix passes hosting duties over to punk icon Donita Sparks of L7. Donita interviews Rain about the origins of LaunchLeft, her lifelong journey in music and artistry, collaborating with her brother River Phoenix, navigating grief, and the evolution of her creative process. Rain also shares updates on her current projects, including Escape Artist Lovers and the inspiration behind her next solo record. Together, Rain and Donita explore artistic identity, spiritual growth, joyful collaboration, and the power of feeling ‘seen' in the artistic community. Then, Rain launches Evelyn Frances, who shares her experimental approach to music, blending classical, jazz, and electronic soundscapes to explore climate change, human connection, and personal transformation. This episode is perfect for musicians, music lovers, independent artists, and fans of LaunchLeft, offering insight into how collaboration, grief, and purpose-driven art can shape careers and creative paths. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN THIS EPISODE ✅ Rain’s goal for creating LaunchLeft to uplift independent artists and creatives✅ How music shaped Rain’s life from childhood to her current projects✅ The evolution of Escape Artist Lovers and Rain’s creative partnership with Kirk Hellie✅ Rain’s mission-oriented solo record and her work as a death doula✅ Evelyn Frances’ experimental music process and the themes of her albums Seed and Human Patience✅ How collaboration, grief, and personal growth influence creative partnerships IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 Introduction: Meet Donita Sparks03:42 How Rain stays grounded while navigating the pressures of the music industry07:15 Early experiences that shaped Rain’s artistic identity and mission12:08 Rain’s approach to vulnerability and honesty in her creative work16:54 Overcoming obstacles on her artistic path and lessons learned21:30 Maintaining community and connection while uplifting emerging artists26:02 The role of creative partnership in Rain’s journey with Escape Artist Lovers31:40 Balancing artistic expression with the realities of the music business36:12 Advice for artists struggling with self-doubt40:55 Key takeaways from Rain’s mission-driven work and what she hopes listeners carry forward KEY TAKEAWAYS 💎 Visibility from a respected artist can transform the career of an emerging musician💎 Creativity evolves through grief, growth, and reinvention💎 Music becomes a refuge, a truth-teller, and a way back to oneself💎 Purpose-driven art brings comfort at life’s most vulnerable moments💎 Experimental and avant-garde music blends genres to challenge perception and inspire reflection RESOURCE LINKS LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link: https://www.launchleft.com Rain PhoenixWebsite: https://www.rainjphoenix.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainjphoenix/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rainjphoenix333/ Donita SparksWebsite: https://www.donitasparks.comL7 Official: https://www.l7theband.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/donitasparksSpotify Artist Page (L7): https://open.spotify.com/artist/0vYzyVYjv80FVRbH0qD5GG Evelyn FrancesWebsite: https://www.evelynfrancesmusic.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evelynfrancesmusic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evelynfrancesmusic/ Prim: https://sundaydrive-records.com/collections/prim?srsltid=AfmBOorkjt4_3eLFgL5LNXafSW2uGKPx3bQ0O33m9hcCmyd80yP4til4 BIOGRAPHIES Rain Phoenix: Musician, activist, and creator of LaunchLeft, Rain has spent her life in music and artistic projects, from performing with her brother River in Aleka’s Attic to leading projects including Paper Cranes, Venus and the Moon, and Escape Artist Lovers. Her work blends artistic expression with spiritual intention, uplifting emerging independent artists while exploring vulnerability, joy, and truth. Rain’s forthcoming solo album Lullaby (BYE) expands her mission to bring comfort through music at pivotal life moments. Donita Sparks: Best known as the co-founder, guitarist, and vocalist of the pioneering punk band L7, Donita Sparks is a cultural force whose influence spans decades. Her creativity, artistry, and humor have made her an iconic figure in music. In 2026, Sparks joins LaunchLeft as a guest host, bringing her insight and generous spirit to conversations with independent and emerging artists.Evelyn Frances is an experimental, avant-garde musician and songwriter from Upstate New York, now based in Seattle. Her work blends classical flute and jazz training with electronic soundscapes to explore climate change, humanity’s relationship with nature, and personal struggles with mental health. Her first album, Seed, was recorded at Electric Lady Studios while she interned there and met producer Phil Joly. Her second album, Human Patience, was created over five years with Matthew Politoski (producer/mixing engineer), Phil Joly (producer/mixing engineer), Tristan Allen (producer), ...
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    49 mins
  • RAIN PHOENIX launches Team LaunchLeft

    RAIN PHOENIX launches Team LaunchLeft
    Nov 18 2025

    In this inspiring episode of LaunchLeft, host Rain Phoenix chats with Lorraine Petel, Geoff Ryan, Jennifer Tefft, and Rich Tupica, aka the team behind LaunchLeft! Take a dive deep into the creative process, independent music, film, and the challenges facing artists today. From Geoff Ryan’s journey in narrative filmmaking and experimental shorts to Lorraine Petel’s rise in radio and underground music curation, the conversation covers the intersections of creativity, community, and the evolving digital landscape. Jennifer Tefft shares her insights on live music venues and fostering community engagement, while Rich Tupica reflects on finding audiences and promoting indie artists in a saturated music world. The episode also explores artist sustainability in the age of streaming, social media’s influence on creative discovery, and the importance of physical venues for cultivating artistic communities. Whether you’re an independent musician, filmmaker, or visual artist, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building a career in the arts, navigating industry challenges, and celebrating radical creativity.

    What You’ll Learn This Episode:

    ✅Meet the creatives who make LaunchLeft happen.

    ✅How to sustain and promote creative projects in today’s digital and streaming-focused environment.

    ✅The role of live venues and community spaces in developing artistic careers and fostering audience connections.

    ✅Strategies for independent artists to navigate the challenges of modern media, from social media algorithms to audience engagement.

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    00:00 Introduction to LaunchLeft and supporting underground music, independent artists, and creative communities

    06:42 Geoff’s experience in filmmaking, experimental shorts, and indie film production, including challenges in the industry and returning to music video projects

    11:05 Lorraine Petel shares how she fell into radio, her career at NTS London, underground music curation, and artist promotion

    16:30 Jennifer Tefft on the importance of live music venues, audience engagement, and community-building, comparing in-person experiences to social media discovery for artists

    20:31 Geoff Ryan’s experiences filming under challenging conditions, music video production, and creative collaboration

    24:52 Lorraine Petel discusses the growth of her show at NTS and supporting underrepresented musicians, promoting indie artists, and curating unique music

    28:26 Artist income, streaming challenges, indie music promotion, and sustaining creative careers in a digital-first world

    35:00 Rich Tupica on connecting with fans, online communities, promoting music, and supporting artistic growth, highlighting strategies for success in the modern music and art landscape

    44:00 Local music venues & community spaces showcase the importance of live performance spaces, artist development, indie music venues, and community engagement

    52:00 The team reflects on the year, expresses gratitude to the LaunchLeft community, creative collaborators, and indie artists, and encourages listeners to support music, art, and independent filmmaking

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    💎Independent artists face challenges in income, audience reach, and digital saturation, but community support and live venues can bridge the gap

    💎Experimental projects and creative exploration are essential for artistic growth, even outside of mainstream success

    💎Platforms like NTS London, Bandcamp, and LaunchLeft empower underground and independent artists, providing visibility and connection with audiences

    💎Building a local and online community is critical for sustaining artistic careers, from small venues to curated online spaces

    💎Supporting artists directly through merch, ticketed events, and Bandcamp can have a tangible impact on their ability to create

    RESOURCE LINKS:

    LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link
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    55 mins
  • BEN GIBBARD launches Casey Dienel

    BEN GIBBARD launches Casey Dienel
    Oct 28 2025
    In this episode, Rain Phoenix chats with Ben Gibbard of Death Cab For Cutie to explore his journey in indie music, songwriting, and touring. From the early days of Death Cab For Cutie, to forming The Postal Service, to navigating the music industry, Ben shares insights on creativity, collaboration, and the evolution of alternative rock. Later, Ben launches Casey Dienel, and they dive into her approach to music, artistry, and the challenges new artists face in today’s industry. Casey also shares details about her upcoming album "My Heart as an Outlaw" and her return to live performance after a decade. This episode is packed with indie music insights, songwriting tips, and behind-the-scenes stories from touring life. Don’t miss this candid conversation that celebrates music, creativity, and emerging talent. What You Will Learn in This Episode: ✅ How Ben Gibbard came to music Death Cab For Cutie & the Postal Service ✅ Behind-the-scenes of touring, recording, and navigating the music industry ✅ Casey Dienel’s unique approach to songwriting and creativity ✅ Strategies for new artists breaking into alternative rock and indie music Subscribe to LaunchLeft for more indie music stories. Follow us on socials for updates and bonus content. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro: Ben Gibbard joins LaunchLeft Podcast 05:38 Ben reflects on music industry changes 11:32 Ben's songwriting process and inspiration 16:41 Ben's favorite aspect of making music 21:31 Ben's passion for ultramarathon running 26:27 Ben launches Casey Dienel 32:32 Discussing studio recording experiences and preparation 39:12 How Ben and Casey first met 44:15 Casey talks about her new album "My Heart as an Outlaw" 47:58 Song: "17" by Casey Dienel KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Ben Gibbard's career spans 27 years, marked by unexpected success and a gradual acceptance of music as a viable career path 💎The music industry has shifted dramatically, with artists facing new economic challenges due to the loss of album sales as a primary revenue stream 💎Ben's songwriting process is deeply personal, focusing on prolific writing rather than trying to predict which songs will resonate with audiences 💎Community and long-term relationships play a crucial role in Ben's life and artistic accountability 💎Casey Dienel's new album "My Heart as an Outlaw" marks her return to music after an eight-year hiatus, showcasing her evolution as an artist RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast BEN GIBBARD LINKS: https://www.deathcabforcutie.com/ https://benjamingibbard.com/ https://www.instagram.com/deathcabforcutie/ https://www.instagram.com/gibbstack/ https://www.facebook.com/deathcabforcutie https://www.facebook.com/bengibbard https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOtn115fCfFKIxG7_Quv9ZA CASEY DIENEL LINKS: https://www.whoiscaseydienel.com/ https://www.instagram.com/casey_dienel/ https://www.tiktok.com/@casey.dienel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp_WKK5gnDQH53qkRxBDeOw https://www.facebook.com/CaseyDienelOfficial BIOGRAPHIES: Benjamin Gibbard is a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and guitarist. He is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of Death Cab for Cutie, formed in 1997. The band has since recorded ten studio albums, including, most recently, the critically acclaimed Asphalt Meadows (2022). Gibbard is also one half of the electronic duo The Postal Service, whose sole album, Give Up (2003), is certified platinum and the second best-selling title in the 37 year history of Sub Pop Records. Gibbard released his debut solo album Former Lives in 2012. In 2009, in collaboration with Jay Farrar (Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt), he released the album One Fast Move or I'm Gone (2009), which also served as the soundtrack to the eponymous Jack Kerouac documentary. He has scored two films: Lynn Shelton’s Laggies (2014) and, along with musician and producer Steve Fisk, the Kurt Cobain documentary About a Son (2006). Additionally, he wrote and recorded two original songs featured in the 2011 remake of the classic film Arthur. Gibbard is an avid ultra-marathon runner and a longtime resident of Seattle, WA. Casey Dienel is an American singer-songwriter and musician. Dienel, who has also performed and recorded as White Hinterland, plays piano, keyboards and ukulele. My Heart Is An Outlaw is Casey Dienel’s seventh album and first studio release. It arrives after eight years away, the result of a renewed trust in collaboration as a radical act of surrender. The album’s 11 tracks—each a film and a melodic treasure trove—offer a reckoning with freedom, identity, and the conflicting desire for both solitude and intimacy. Recorded at Altamira Sound in Los Angeles, Figure 8 Recording in New York, and Chamber of Commerce in Vermont, the record zooms from micro to macro, intimate breath to mic drop.
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    57 mins
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