Best Curtain Of Country Music Podcasts (2025)

1
Playing "Hide and Seek" with Imogen Heap 35:11

36m ago35:11

35:11

It may be hard to believe it in this technology-driven day and age, but one of the most pervasive sounds in popular music came about when a computer STOPPED working. In 2005, artist and innovator Imogen Heap released "Hide and Seek," a mysterious and emotional song featuring just her voice and a digital harmonizer. In this episode, Nate and Reanna …

1
It Takes A Village (To Raise A Parent!) 38:28

1d ago38:28

38:28

They say it takes a village to raise a child - but what about the parents? In this episode, we’re joined by Lana Sussman, co-founder of The Parents Village, to talk about why building a strong support network is just as important for parents as it is for kids. She shares practical ways to stay connected with friends (even when you’re exhausted), ho…

1
The Umbrella Effect: How Rihanna’s Breakout Hit Changed Pop Music Forever 37:24

7d ago37:24

37:24

In 2007, a 19-year-old Barbadian pop singer released the lead single off her third album. By doing so, she didn't just give us a timeless, undeniable banger -- she changed the way pop music is made, and became the global superstar that we know Rihanna to be today. In this episode we go back in time to unearth the origins of "Umbrella," and how the …

1
Your Child Has 4 Minutes - Could You Save Them? 49:56

9d ago49:56

49:56

Four minutes. That’s all the time you have before a choking child can lose consciousness. Would you know what to do? If you’ve ever found yourself frantically Googling symptoms at 2am, debating whether to rush to the doctor or ride it out, you’re not alone. But in a real emergency, there’s no time to hesitate - your first response can mean the diff…

1
Learning to love: Tate McRae 45:59

13d ago45:59

45:59

Tate McRae's billions of streams and perfectly crafted hits can feel almost algorithmic, like an AI trained on 20 years of pop music. In anticipation of McRae’s third album So Close to What, out this Friday, we dissect McRae’s "SimplePop" formula, from her strategic, indescript vocal delivery to expert "vibe snatching" of Y2K sounds. Through single…

1
Bye-Bye Nappies! Toilet Training Tips That Actually Work 49:35

16d ago49:35

49:35

Ready to ditch the nappies? Toilet training can feel like an endless cycle of “Do you need to go?” but don’t panic – help is here! Christine Tracey, founder of One's and Two's Occupational Therapy, is sharing the tricks of the trade to help your toddler (and you!) master the toilet with confidence. From spotting the signs that they’re ready, to tac…

1
Does It Trance? The Weeknd & FKA Twigs 46:50

20d ago46:50

46:50

In last month's episode predicting the coming year in pop, one of the team's predictions was that trance music – the ethereal, dreamy subgenre of electronic music popular around the turn of the century – would make a comeback on the charts in 2025. And even though we're less than two months into the year, we're already seeing the tides of nostalgia…

1
Toy Talk: Choosing The Best Playthings For Your Toddler 45:26

23d ago45:26

45:26

Hands up if your toddler has too many toys! (Don’t worry, so do ours). In this episode of Wiggle Talk, Simon and Lachy speak with child development expert and creator of the Good Play Guide, Dr Amanda Gummer, to tackle the toy overload many parents face. They dive into the art of picking playthings that not only keep your little one entertained but…

1
How Spotify hacked our ears (and our data) 53:46

27d ago53:46

53:46

Behind Spotify's promise of infinite music lies a carefully engineered system that shapes not just what we hear, but how music itself gets made. Journalist Liz Pelly's explosive new book "Mood Machine" rips away the curtain on streaming's biggest player, revealing how its algorithms and backroom deals dictate the soundtrack to our lives. With major…

1
From Wiggle To Dad: John Pearce On Parenthood 33:21

30d ago33:21

33:21

Being a Wiggle is one thing, but becoming a dad? That’s a whole new dance! In this episode of Wiggle Talk Purple Wiggle John Pearce takes us behind the scenes of his biggest role yet - fatherhood. With baby Henry (miraculously) asleep, John’s wife Jess joins the chat to share the surprises, the challenges, and yes, even a bit of poo talk that comes…

1
Starting School Made Simple 41:45

1M ago41:45

41:45

The first day of school is a big milestone, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode of Wiggle Talk, we dive into how to make back-to-school transitions smooth, whether it’s your child’s first day of kindergarten or another year in the classroom. With insights from Noni Hoskins, Principal of Matraville Public School, we’ll cover ever…

1
25 Predictions for 2025: Grammys, J-pop, kazoos and more 57:45

1M ago57:45

57:45

2024 was an unpredictable year, and 2025 seems to be cut from the same cloth. So for this episode of Switched On Pop, Nate, Charlie, and Reanna look into the crystal ball of pop music to create a (playable) bingo card of predictions for the coming year – including AI songs on the Hot 100, a return of boy bands, and... kazoos? The Album of the Year …

1
Giddy Up With The Wiggles: Live From Tamworth Country Music Festival 1:02:35

1M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Yeehaw! The Wiggles are trading their skivvies for hats and boots in this special episode of Wiggle Talk recorded on location at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. After announcing their forthcoming country album, Wiggle Up, Giddy Up!, The Wiggles took the stage at the iconic festival for the very first time. Join Simon and Lachy as they sit down…

1
Bad Bunny's love letter to Puerto Rico 46:58

1M ago46:58

46:58

The first great release of 2025 is already here: Bad Bunny's newest album, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS. Over the course of its 17 tracks, the Puerto Rican reggaetonero crafts an intertextual, anti-colonial tome of a record, incorporating sounds from across his island and the boricua diaspora. From his use of salsa classics on "NUEVAYoL," to his pointed in…

1
The Toddler Survival Guide That Every Parent Needs, With Ash Wicks 58:04

1M ago58:04

58:04

Parenting toddlers is a wild ride, but comedian and Two Doting Dads co-host Ash Wicks is here to make it a little easier - and a lot funnier. In this episode of Wiggle Talk, Ash unveils his must-have toddler survival guide, sharing practical tips and unconventional strategies that every parent needs to hear. HOSTS Simon Pryce Lachlan Gillespie Anth…

1
The biggest theme song fail 41:37

2M ago41:37

41:37

What happens when your podcast’s theme song—cobbled together from GarageBand loops—gets called “game show music” and likened to a cereal commercial? You rewrite it. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of Switched on Pop’s sonic makeover, from scathing critiques by music industry heavyweights to the creation of a lush, layered soundscape …

1
Our Top Wiggle Talk Moments and What They Taught Us 43:57

2M ago43:57

43:57

What have we learned from some of the brightest minds in parenting and education? In this highlights episode of Wiggle Talk, we revisit the conversations that made the biggest impact. From handling tantrums and building resilience to using music as a powerful tool for learning, this episode is filled with practical tips and meaningful insights from…

1
Have Disney musicals lost their edge? 41:46

2M ago41:46

41:46

Critics are not feeling the love tonight when it comes to Disney's latest sequels, Mufasa and Moana 2. They've called the animated films "lifeless and bland." But save some sympathy for the composers behind these blatant IP grabs. Lin Manuel Miranda and the duo Barlow and Bear had to match the original, iconic numbers from the Lion King and Moana, …

1
Behind the Curtain: How The Wiggles’ Concerts Come To Life 1:37:21

2M ago1:37:21

1:37:21

Ever wondered what it takes to bring a Wiggles arena show to life? In this very special extended episode of Wiggle Talk, we’re pulling back the curtain to give you an exclusive look at the incredible crew who make the magic happen. From costumes and sound to logistics and merchandise, these behind-the-scenes heroes are the heartbeat of every show, …

1
Going Off Book 1:31:10

2M ago1:31:10

1:31:10

On this very special episode, we join forces with the hilarious podcast OFF BOOK. When our powers combine, Zach and Jess of Off Book, plus their killer backing band of Scott, Dana and Brett create an improvised musical, while Nate and Charlie break down the sound and structure of a Broadway show. Stay tuned for deep thoughts about what separates po…

1
Life On The Road: Captain Feathersword And Anthony Unfiltered 40:08

2M ago40:08

40:08

On this episode of ‘Wiggle Talk - A Podcast for Parents’, we’re joined by special guest Paul Paddick (AKA Captain Feathersword) as the guys share some hilarious and unexpected tales from touring over the years. Anthony recently released his book ‘Out of the Blue’ - but he never planned to write a memoir - it was originally intended to be a book of …

1
How to Help Your Kids Handle Change Like a Pro 44:17

2M ago44:17

44:17

Big changes don’t have to mean big stress! This episode of Wiggle Talk is packed with practical tips to help kids navigate transitions with confidence. From starting kindergarten to daily routines like bath time, discover simple strategies that will transform tricky transitions into success stories. HOSTS Simon Pryce Lachlan Gillespie Anthony Field…

1
Auto-Tune always and forever 1:02:45

2M ago1:02:45

1:02:45

Popular music changes all the time, but there’s been one consistent element in practically everything released in the last two decades: Auto-Tune is everywhere. What started as a simple audio processing tool in the 1990s has become the dominant force in music. Artists are training to sing with Auto-Tune; songs sound like Auto-Tune. Like it or hate …

1
Cracking Open a Wiggly Christmas 35:15

2M ago35:15

35:15

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! In this festive Christmas Cracker episode of Wiggle Talk, Simon, Lachy, and Anthony dive into the holiday spirit with jokes, jingles, and joyful memories. They share their favourite Christmas traditions, including visiting the Children’s Hospital with Santa and gifts, as well as heartfelt family moments …

1
Santa Claus is coming to town and stalking America 33:05

2M ago33:05

33:05

The first time you hear "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," it probably registers as just another cheery holiday standard. But hiding within this seemingly simple song is a remarkable story of American transformation - musical, technological, and social. Each time artists reimagine the song over its 90-year history, they leave an imprint not just of t…

1
Why Kids Need More Play, Not Less 50:20

3M ago50:20

50:20

Play is the secret sauce of childhood - it’s how kids learn, grow, and make sense of the world. In this episode of Wiggle Talk, we’re joined by Jenni Gaffney, Director of Operations at Young Academics Early Learning Centres, who shares why play is at the heart of early education. With insights into everything from messy play to fostering independen…

1
Backstage: Falling Down the Rabbit Hole (The Music Behind Alice in Wonderland) 10:50

3M ago10:50

10:50

Join hosts Maeve ’27 and Anastasia ’27 as they jump down the rabbit hole into the whimsical world of Stuart's 8th Grade production of Alice in Wonderland. In this episode they interview Kelsey Lewis, the musical director behind the show, uncovering the secrets of the production through the music. This behind-the-scenes look is filled with the joys …

1
Growing Up Centered: Spirituality, Mindfulness, and the Adolescent Journey (Part 2) 42:14

3M ago42:14

42:14

On this episode of Tartan Talk, Riley ’25, Editor in Chief of The Tartan, sits down with Alexandra ’25 and Nyla ’25 for an insightful discussion about spirituality and the role it plays in their lives. They dive into their faith journeys, experiences of grief, the importance of community, and how the pressures facing today's teens challenge their a…

1
Breaking Through: Doechii, Mk.gee, Rosé 42:41

3M ago42:41

42:41

Three artists quietly reshaped pop music in 2024, though you might not know it from your Spotify Wrapped. As listeners question the accuracy of their year-end streaming stats, we explore the innovative sounds bubbling up just below the algorithmic radar. Tampa's "Swamp Princess" Doechii brings narrative depth back to hip-hop through her chameleonic…

1
Growing Up Centered: Spirituality, Mindfulness, and the Adolescent Journey (Part 1) 33:22

3M ago33:22

33:22

On this episode of Tartan Talk, Kristen Zosche, Dean of Student Life sits down with Tom Verni, Theology faculty and Campus Ministry advisor, to discuss the importance of spirituality for adolescents, how practices of mindfulness, breathing, and centering serve as a general means of social and emotional wellbeing, and the impact of a spiritual core …

1
Parenting Beyond Stereotypes: Focus on Temperament, Not Gender 41:10

3M ago41:10

41:10

It’s time to stop worrying about gender differences and start focusing on what really matters - your child’s temperament. In this episode of Wiggle Talk, Simon and Lachy chat with clinical psychologist Rachel Samson about how understanding your child’s natural tendencies can be the key to supporting their emotional development. While small developm…

1
The best (and worst) of holiday music in 2024 36:54

3M ago36:54

36:54

It's an annual tradition: Every December, artists release their bids to join the hallowed halls of holiday music history. The gold standard remains Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You," which reportedly earns the pop star $2.5 million annually in royalties. This year's crop of seasonal offerings spans from ambitious originals to reimagi…

1
Kendrick Lamar: from Pulitzer to pop 41:21

3M ago41:21

41:21

In 2024, Kendrick Lamar pulled off what seemed impossible: winning hip-hop's biggest rap battle in recent history, securing the Super Bowl halftime show, and dropping GNX, a surprise album that might be the year's defining pop record. But this triumphant return wasn't guaranteed. Two decades into his career — well past the average life expectancy o…

1
Staying Safe At The Beach: Lessons From Bondi’s Lifeguards 43:55

3M ago43:55

43:55

Did you know that something as simple as teaching your child to float could save their life? In this episode of Wiggle Talk, we chat with Bruce "Hoppo" Hopkins and Noah Finnimore, lifeguards from Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, about essential beach safety tips every family should know. From busting myths about jellyfish stings to managing lost childr…

1
We're off to see the "Wicked" 40:46

3M ago40:46

40:46

The year's hottest movie is, against all odds, a musical. Wicked, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, just hit theaters, and tells the tale of how a green-skinned girl named Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West. And with any musical, the songs are just as important as the narrative. On this episode of Switched On Pop, Charlie, Nate, an…

1
Early Swimming Matters: Laurie Lawrence's Lifesaving and Water Safety Lessons 1:00:26

3M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Early swimming lessons don’t just teach kids to swim - they can save lives. Legendary swim coach Laurie Lawrence and his daughter Emma Lawrence, join us to share alarming facts about childhood drownings and the life-changing benefits of starting swim education early. Discover how their Kids Alive program is helping families keep little ones safe an…

1
Healthy Parent, Happy Kid: Dealing with Discomfort 12:01

3M ago12:01

12:01

On this episode of Healthy Parent, Happy Kid, Christine D’Alessandro and Hayes Honer discuss how to navigate feelings of discomfort and how important discomfort is for growth, in children and adults alike. They share what they see most often in child behavior, what approaches are most effective when navigating these difficult situations, and how to…

1
Listening 2 Madonna: Ray of Light 44:06

3M ago44:06

44:06

TIME Magazine once said, “there are few figures more closely associated with religion in pop culture than Madonna.” And looking at her catalog, it’s hard to disagree. From cheeky double entendres on “Like A Prayer,” to explorations of alternative philosophies on Ray of Light, spiritual practice has always been a core aspect of Madonna’s work. And a…

1
Listening 2 Madonna: Spanish Eyes 44:38

3M ago44:38

44:38

Throughout her forty-year career, Madonna has managed to travel the globe, both literally and musically. Despite being a white woman from the midwest (Michigan, to be exact), her discography has been influenced by countless different cultures and sounds. Even from her very first single, Madonna has frequently paid homage to those she has encountere…

1
Listening 2 Madonna: Who's That Girl? 49:04

3M ago49:04

49:04

Madonna is the world's biggest female pop star. She's influenced everyone from Beyoncé to Britney Spears; is the most successful solo artist in Hot 100 chart history; and is the best-selling female recording artist of all time. Her career – which has spanned over forty years – has seen her continually reinventing herself and her sound over fourteen…

1
Behind the Songs, Beyond the Parenting: The Wiggles Live at SXSW 1:03:02

3M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

Recorded live at SXSW Sydney 2024, this special episode of Wiggle Talk features Simon, Lachy, and Anthony in an unforgettable blend of music, stories, and heartfelt parenting insights. They share behind-the-scenes tales of some of The Wiggles' most beloved songs, like “Hot Potato” and “Fruit Salad,” offering a rare glimpse into their creative magic…

1
Two Girls and a TV: No One Mourns the Wicked 4:58

3M ago4:58

4:58

Welcome back to Two Girls and a TV. Join your hosts, Dana '25 and Aryianna '25, as they dive into the popular world of Wicked, the movie adaptation released in theaters on November 22, 2024. The film stars Cynthia Erivos, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, and is directed by Jon M. Chu. In a world where pop culture and media analysis are dominated by …

1
BONUS: Toddler Sleep Tricks and Tools Every Parent Should Know 29:42

3M ago29:42

29:42

Struggling with bedtime? You’re not alone! In this bonus episode, Dr Golly shares his top sleep hacks that every parent should have in their toolkit. From harnessing the power of quiet time to small bedtime tweaks that can make a big difference, Dr Golly’s practical tips will help transform your little one’s routine. Whether you’re aiming to make b…

1
Backstage: Behind the Curtain 13:44

3M ago13:44

13:44

In this episode of Backstage, hosts Maeve and Anastasia uncover the secrets to running a smooth show with Ryan Lagay, stage manager of Stuart's Murder on the Orient Express. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for "mini mic" interviews — quick, on-the-spot interviews post-show with audience perspectives from the audience and cast. Tartan Talk dive…

1
Fleetwood Mac perfected turning drama into hits 52:59

3M ago52:59

52:59

In 1973, before their ascent to rock superstardom with Fleetwood Mac, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks were just two young lovers making music in Los Angeles. Their debut album, Buckingham Nicks, though commercially unsuccessful at the time, would prove to be the catalyst that changed their lives. When Mick Fleetwood happened to walk into Sound …

1
The Secret To Toddler Sleep Success: Dr Golly’s Expert Guide 50:45

4M ago50:45

50:45

Do you ever feel like you’re in a toddler sleep battle? In this episode of Wiggle Talk, Simon and Lachy sit down with paediatrician and sleep expert, Dr Daniel Golshevsky (aka Dr Golly), to unlock the secrets to toddler sleep success. With his wealth of experience, Dr Golly explains why toddlers need more sleep than adults and how flexibility in ro…

1
Still Freaky After All These Years: Gaga, Tyler, The Cure 33:38

4M ago33:38

33:38

A musical "freak," to us here at Switched On Pop, is an artist who is unique, non-conforming, and always manages to surprise. We're living in some freaky times right now, so there's no better way to honor that than to listen to pop's freakiest artists. The past few weeks have seen new releases from Lady Gaga, Tyler, the Creator, and The Cure – the …

1
Terri Irwin’s Advice For Single Parents Everywhere 33:25

4M ago33:25

33:25

Terri Irwin never thought she’d be raising her kids on her own, but when her husband Steve passed away in 2006, Terri was left to pick up the pieces for eight year old Bindi and two year old Robert. On this episode of Wiggle Talk, Terri joins Lachy and Simon to discuss wanting to be “mum” and “dad” to her two young kids, how she used her village an…

1
Backstage: Whodunit on the Orient Express? 14:46

4M ago14:46

14:46

On this episode of Backstage, hosts Maeve and Anastasia unravel the mystery of the Orient Express in an interview with actor and costume designer Annika '26. Their conversation includes discussions of historical accuracy, stage adaptation, character development, and the art of mystery. Tartan Talk dives into life at Stuart Country Day School of the…

1
Did Kendrick Lamar kill hip-hop? 58:25

4M ago58:25

58:25

Over the summer, the culture was shaken by the biggest rap beef this decade, between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. From “First Person Shooter” to “Not Like Us,” hip-hop listeners hung on each rapper’s every word and rebuttal, and for the first time in years, the genre felt exciting. Months after the beef had “ended,” Lamar released a track on Instagram…

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Curtain Of Country Music Podcasts

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