Best Mr UPGRADE Podcasts (2024)

1
From Classical Roots to Rock Legends: Joel Hoekstra's Musical Journey 1:00:47

6m ago1:00:47

1:00:47

What happens when classical music meets rock and roll? Join us on Music Junkies as we chat with the extraordinary Joel Hoekstra, a guitarist whose vibrant journey spans from the classical influence of his accomplished musician parents to the electrifying world of rock music. Joel shares the pivotal moments that defined his career, from being inspir…

1
#276 Photographing BEAUTIFUL MONSTERS and the perfect next X-Pro 46:13

29m ago46:13

46:13

As Kev heads for sunnier climes we talk about life after weddings for Mullins Inc. as he counts down to his final nuptials gig, although he’s considering second shooting in a lomography style, maybe, perhaps. Also on the show, commercially and creatively making life simple, shooting professionally with the oldest digital cameras you can source, fin…

1
#275 Time to try film, or is it? And all hail the mighty Viltrox lens 49:57

12d ago49:57

49:57

Kev’s been doing what can only be described as speed-head-shooting, though his passion for country music is at last paying off as Neale eulogises about a Mullins favourite, Hank Williams. Also on the show, a shed-load of darkroom kit has turned up at Mullins HQ, the difference between dentists and photographers, using second shooters and assistants…

1
Drummer & Voddy Swiller with BIF NAKED Drummer Chiko Misomali 34:59

26d ago34:59

34:59

Feel the drumbeats of life's great symphony with the rhythm maestro, Chiko Misomali as he joins me on the latest Music Junkies episode. As someone whose musical heartbeat has fueled the likes of Biff Naked and resonated in games and commercials, Chiko brings a playlist that's the soundtrack to his life's milestones. We kick off reminiscing about ou…

1
#274 HELP! Fujifilm flippy screens are driving me mad! 46:50

27d ago46:50

46:50

Kev’s got extreme hay fever, which serves him right for cutting crop circles, and he’s considering his next photographic genre, which may just bring his love of martial arts and photography together. Today on the show, how powerful does your laptop have to be to handle GFX files? We have a strong case of flippy or tilty screen-gate, where one of ou…

1
INTERVIEW / The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei

1M ago

—

By Matt Spaulding

1
Nightmare Dates: Avoiding the Dating Disaster with Mss Francois 1:06:49

1M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

Ever wondered how losing your job could be the best thing that ever happened to you? Today on Music Junkies, we have the hilarious Ms. Francois sharing her unique perspective on social media fame and unconventional careers, including her uproarious take on getting fired and the unexpected twist of using Instagram to gain sympathy and followers. We …

1
Behind the sense a Hollywood love story with Brianne Davis 58:04

1M ago58:04

58:04

If the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, combined with the raw undertones of sex, love, and addiction intrigue you, then you're in the right place. Today, we're thrilled to have the entertainment industry's dynamo, Brianne Davis, in our musical hot seat. She's on board to peel back the curtains on her journey, from creating a playlist for her bestsel…

1
#273: Do I really need the VI, or will the X100V do? 48:52

1M ago48:52

48:52

Neale is celebrating 20 years of shooting weddings and planning for the next 20, whilst Kev counts down his final three! Or are they? However, he reveals some big judo plans! Questions and mails today on how to choose Fujifilm simulations when editing in Lightroom or X Raw Studio, whether it’s time to upgrade from the V to the VI in X00-land, a per…

1
Leather, Lace and Fire. The Tales of Raw Love 55:25

2M ago55:25

55:25

When the pulsating beats of DJ Raw Love first filled my ears, I knew we were in for an electrifying journey. Chrisanna a New York Times bestselling author turned pro bodybuilder, now spinning the decks with a flair that's hard to ignore, graces our show with tales of her leap into the music scene. Her hit song, a beacon of her love story, reflects …

1
Rockin Out: Freeman's Iron Maiden Obsession and Unconventional Skills 56:44

2M ago56:44

56:44

Ever thought of the wild stories that lie behind the making of a music playlist? Hold on to your headphones as we embark on a sonic roller-coaster ride with Freeman, the ultimate Iron Maiden fanatic. We kick off with a hilarious tale of a pub encounter, a man smitten by Freeman's hair, and a band playing at an absurdly early hour. From amusing misu…

1
#272: More chatter about the X-Pro4 and photographing from space 47:26

2M ago47:26

47:26

Kev tries his hand at horse photography at one of high society's biggest events, and Neale signs the boys up to set sail on a pirate radio ship. This week, the big Netflix shows currently being watched in the James and Mullins households, looking for a new professional photography career, do lenses need to be perfect or are some of the classics of …

1
From "Fade to Black" to Podcast Crack: with Chuck Shute 1:08:40

2M ago1:08:40

1:08:40

Ever find yourself wistfully thinking back to the music that scored your youth, or the songs that became the soundtrack to your most cherished memories? Chuck and I, Annette Smith, take you on a sentimental journey through our shared love for music, storytelling, and the art of the interview. As Chuck Shoot graces the Music Junkies podcast, we unea…

1
Striking a Chord: with the 7-Foot Flute Player Brent Tyler 1:09:13

2M ago1:09:13

1:09:13

Ever thought about how a towering height could influence a person's music career? Well, put on your headphones, and let's meet Brent Tyler, who stands tall at seven feet, not just in height but also in his passion for music. Brent generously shares the captivating journey of his life, beautifully interwoven with music, basketball, and knee surgerie…

1
#271: No more meetings, I’m becoming a photographer! 46:31

2M ago46:31

46:31

Kev’s been wrecking vans but all for a good cause, meanwhile Neale has announced(ish) his latest idea in a long line of ideas from the ideas factory. Today we talk about a Viltrox lens so impressive, it also doubles as a speed-radar(!), swapping back to Adobe products after a time away and why we prefer the tech ecosystem, keeping up with the lates…

1
Church Choirs to Crotch Splitting with Tim Steinruck 1:04:13

2M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

Get ready for an exhilarating ride through the world of rock and roll with Tim Steinruck lead vocalist and guitarist of The Mighty One. Our conversation dives deep into Tim's musical journey, tracing his evolution from a young music enthusiast to a seasoned songwriter and performer. Listen in as we dissect the complexities of his creative process, …

1
"Rocking Legends: Lorraine Lewis and the Legacy of Vixen and Femme Fatale" 1:16:46

3M ago1:16:46

1:16:46

Step up and get ready to be swept off your feet by the whirlwind tales of rock 'n' roll royalty, Lorraine Lewis. The iconic Vixen lead vocalist and casting producer takes center stage as she recounts the electric days of her musical journey, from high school dreams to the legendary Sunset Strip. Her voice carries the wisdom of the ages, yet pulses …

1
#270: Keeping Mr. Google happy & can ChatGPT be your writer? 48:37

3M ago48:37

48:37

Neale has his website homework marked by Mr. Mullins, who has spent the last month learning about the most dangerous job in the world - which will be revealed. Also today, a setting that could be slowing your shooting down, an ideal camera for studio strobe work, constant light source is your friend, Instagram’s most cliché shots, using two camera …

1
Highs of hockey glory and the anthems of '80s rock with Derrick Germain 1:10:13

3M ago1:10:13

1:10:13

This week on Music Junkies, I’m thrilled to have my good old buddy, Derrick Germain, onboard. We'll be swapping stories - from wild high school experiences to his heartwarming love saga with his wife, Tracy, and their journey through four failed date attempts before finally hitting the sweet spot. Our friendly debate on the significance of flexibil…

1
Pranks, Playlists and, Illusions with Stand-Up Comedian and Magician Danny Whitson 57:59

3M ago57:59

57:59

When comedy and magic collide, the result is a spectacle of humor and surprise that captivates audiences. This podcast episode introduces us to the remarkable Danny Winston, whose journey through comedy, illusion, and music is as multifaceted as it is fascinating. Host Annette Smith engages Danny in a conversation that is both enlightening and ente…

1
#269: Upgrading your camera: Why? And back to the darkroom 42:53

3M ago42:53

42:53

Kev wonders whether his new X-Pro dreams have filtered through to the ‘We shall consider’ file. Meanwhile, switch on your ai face recognition, it has arrived on Pic-Time’s platform, our sponsors and the finest online gallery space. Also today on the show, upgrades, do you need to upgrade from the X-T4 to the X-T5? We also talk about film photograph…

1
Goth Metal, Grit, and Glam with Glenn from Two Shadows 58:20

3M ago58:20

58:20

Slip into the shadows with us as Glenn from Two Shadows unravels the tapestry of goth metal melodies and the raw emotion behind their chart-topping hit "Scratchin' Out the Surface." It's not every day that you get to steal glimpses into an artist's soul. Still, Glenn lays it bare, recounting the transformative studio journey, the tug-of-war with re…

1
Chords of Change: From Rock Bottom to Mosh Pit Miracles with Kevin Hellestad 1:03:54

4M ago1:03:54

1:03:54

When Kevin, a fervent music aficionado, shares his life-altering odyssey through the realms of rock and metal, you can't help but feel the electric charge in the air. Our latest episode features his tale of salvation through sound, a narrative that spans from the solace he found in music during his darkest times to the explosive energy of mosh pits…

1
#268: Presenting work you HATE and YouTube trolling 43:39

4M ago43:39

43:39

Kev's nervously optimistic ahead of the Welsh qualifier against Poland, considering an unusual Tikkety Tok channel and musing over the number of holes in an average crumpet, but he's still single-handedly campaigning for the new X100(6) to be known as the V.I. Neale remains to be convinced. Also, YouTube trolling, camera supply issues, desired arti…

1
Mixtape Memories: Comedy, Crushes, and Carmen Lynch 1:06:02

4M ago1:06:02

1:06:02

Picture yourself rummaging through old mixtapes and stumbling upon the soundtrack of your youth. That's where we kick things off with Carmen Lynch, a strikingly hilarious New York City comedian who joins me to reminisce about the power of music and its uncanny ability to teleport us back to the days of high school dances and first crushes. We unpac…

1
INTERVIEW / Empire of the Damned by Jay Kristoff

4M ago

—

By Jenny Robinson

1
Guitar Strings and Heartbreak: The Ballad of Chancy Grife 1:18:13

4M ago1:18:13

1:18:13

When Chancy strums the strings of his custom Frankenstein-style guitar, it's like unlocking a treasure trove of stories and emotions woven into each note. In this episode of Music Junkies, prepare for a captivating symphony of heartfelt narratives as our guest, a passionate music and movie aficionado, paints a vivid picture of his life's soundtrack…

1
#267: LIVE from Fujifilm's House of Photography, London! 1:03:59

4M ago1:03:59

1:03:59

Special guests street photographer Mr. Whisper, the latest Fujifilm X-Photographer Emily Renier and Fujifilm’s Marketing Manager Andreas Georghiades, join Neale in Covent Garden, London at Fujifilm’s House of Photography. Questions to and thoughts from a live audience today include thoughts about on personal authenticity, whether photographers need…

1
Rockin' the Dirty Edge: A Metal Journey Unleashed 1:05:43

4M ago1:05:43

1:05:43

Get ready to rock as I, Annette Smith, unleash the electrifying energy of London's metal masters, Prodigal, straight into your eardrums. Stan, George, Johnny, and Louis peel back the layers of their wild journey, from jamming in the schoolyard to dominating the stages they command today. Our conversation is a no-holds-barred exploration of the elem…

1
Ice, Beats, and Chuckles: with Lori "ICE" Fetrick from American Gladiators 1:22:15

5M ago1:22:15

1:22:15

Ever found yourself lost in the beats of your childhood, each song a thread in the tapestry of your memory? Lori Fetrick 'Ice' from American Gladiators joins me, Annette Smith, for a session that's as much a concert of nostalgia as it is a symposium on the sheer force of music in our lives. We trace Lori's journey from country classics that echoed …

1
#266: The X100VI is out - review & last chance for FUJICAST LIVE tickets 47:24

5M ago47:24

47:24

It’s new camera week! The boys are excited over the launch, at last, of the latest Fujifilm X100 camera; the X100VI, or SIX! Aside from the thoughts about the numbering of the camera, we hear about the upgrades, the sensor and the reason to consider this a serious contender for inclusion in that pocket of space you may have in your kit bag. Also to…

1
Karate Moves, Cruise Upgrades, and Acid Wash Jeans: with Jane and Deklan 1:04:59

5M ago1:04:59

1:04:59

Ever found yourself gripping the steering wheel, with Eminem blasting through the speakers, as you navigate a snowstorm? That's just a sliver of what we unpack with Jane and Deklan from the brutal, bizarre, and boozy podcast on this episode of Music Junkies. Our conversation traverses the emotional landscapes music creates, from s Deklan's breakup …

1
Strings, Songs, and Sinful Stories: Rocking Out with Matthew Holtby 1:20:41

5M ago1:20:41

1:20:41

Have you ever been whisked back in time by a single guitar riff? Singer-songwriter Matthew Holtby joins us on Music Junkies to share his symphony of life—an auditory tale that dances through his vibrant solo career and the tracks that define it. Our conversation is a mixtape of moments, from the Anne Murray show that started it all, to the punk roc…

1
#265: Please Sir, I want an X-Pro 4? And the truth about landscape shooters! 40:39

5M ago40:39

40:39

Kev’s knee is on the mend at last, fresh from recording an interview with Neale about his life as a working Mullins! Also on the show, buffer speeds slowing down your camera, buggy mechanical shutters, the ideal lens for photographing indoor sport, a firefighting proof camera, logging where you make your pictures with GPS, photography galleries in …

1
Retro Rambles: Hip Hits & Shoulder Pad Misadventures! with Harvey Laguerre 1:06:03

5M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Ever wondered how a stroll down memory lane with 80s music could stir up more than just fond recollections? Join me, Annette Smith, as I sit down with Harvey, the charismatic voice behind "Love is Black" and "Men Are the Prize," for a vivid trek back to the era of synthesizers, leg warmers, and MTV. We tap into the pulse of a decade that revolution…

1
Beats, Blunders, and Blazing Truths: with Joelle Gilmour 1:09:33

6M ago1:09:33

1:09:33

Looking to discover how the magic of music can shape our lives, relationships, and personal growth? Join us for an enlightening conversation with our extraordinary guest, Joelle Gilmour who shares her intimate journey with music. We dive into the depths of our shared love for music, discussing its profound influence on our lives and how it connects…

1
Episode #264: Why don’t I like my photographs?! And content is KING 38:23

6M ago38:23

38:23

Neale is on his African odyssey, whilst Kev is left shivering in Malmesbury but the show goes on as normal. Today on the show, the full agenda for our special FujiCast event at the House of Photography in London on the 2nd March this year, camera repairs, Lightroom user tips, squishing and squashing images for the web, learning to love your own pic…

1
From Vinyl to Van Halen: Rocking Ron Coolen's Dirty Musical Memoirs! 1:05:45

6M ago1:05:45

1:05:45

Can you remember your first concert or the thrill of buying your first album? Our guest for this episode, the self-taught musician and radio personality, Ron Coolen, takes us down memory lane to his early experiences with music. He shares his affinity for heavy metal music, sparked off by his first album purchase, Boston's "Don't Look Back." A resi…

1
Beats, Body Slams, and Book Projects: Unraveling Music and Wrestling with CJ Plain 1:15:48

6M ago1:15:48

1:15:48

Get ready to be taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and nostalgia as we explore the mesmerizing world of music and wrestling. I'm your host, Annette Smith, and joining me in this insightful journey is our music-obsessed guest, CJ Plain. He opens up about his home studio, the sentimental significance behind its name, and his intriguing book pr…

1
#263: What do you desire of a new X100 camera? And looking for inspiration 40:24

6M ago40:24

40:24

Happy New Year: is it? The question Kev’s friends are asking in Malmesbury - we think it will be, as we look ahead a little more to the FujiCast Live event in London on March 2nd. Today on the show, what the boys would like to find if there is to be a new X100 successor to the V, how to beat the buffer blues when your camera slows down in burst mod…

1
Beats, Booty Shakes, and Banter: Getting Down and Dirty with the Music Man! Eric Alper 1:18:42

6M ago1:18:42

1:18:42

Have you ever wondered about the transformative power of music? Join me as I sit down with Eric Alper, a major figure in the Canadian entertainment industry, for an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the world of music and beyond. We kick off with Eric's personal playlist, each song a life lesson. He gives us a rare glimpse into the mus…

1
From South Central LA to Chicano Shuffle: Ramon Ballesteros Odyssey 1:00:57

6M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

Ever wondered how the cultural blend of TV, music, and films across two languages shapes a person? This episode takes you on a fascinating journey with Ramon, a first-generation Mexican-American, whose childhood was marinated in a mix of English and Spanish entertainment, and how that blend has influenced his life and work. We're rolling back the y…

1
#262: New Year New Camera? Plus finding confidence 44:56

7M ago44:56

44:56

The boys find a new fitness guru in Eddie Abbew, so the gauntlet is set for 2024’s health mission! Today ROLL UP ROLL UP, grab your tickets for the FujiCast Live event at the House of Photography in London on Saturday March 2nd featuring us, Mr. Whisper and Emily Renier. Also, when is a camera upgrade due, should we produce a zine, should they even…

1
The Symphony of Kevin Joly: From School Bands to Biggie Theories 47:49

7M ago47:49

47:49

Get ready to ride a rollercoaster of emotions with our extraordinary guest, Kevin Joly. In this engaging conversation, we travel in time as Kevin paints a vivid picture of his life, significantly shaped by music. His tale takes us from his elementary school days when he was rocking out to Def Leppard, to choosing a wedding song that evokes cherishe…

1
Behind the Scenes with Rob Bolland: The Making of 'Rock Me Amadeus' and Understanding Music's Cultural Impact 1:37:32

7M ago1:37:32

1:37:32

Ever wondered who's the mastermind behind the global hit 'Rock Me Amadeus'? Join us as we sit down with award-winning songwriter and producer, Rob Bolland, who's left an enduring imprint on the music scene and sold over 67 million records worldwide. Get ready to traverse through Rob's enthralling career journey, from his youth in South Africa to hi…

1
#261: Twas the show before Christmas and GET YOUR TICKETS FOR MARCH! 49:58

7M ago49:58

49:58

The Christmas pressies are arriving into the show. For Kevin, it’s mince pies and for Neale, mushrooms (although not what you’re thinking!) This week the boys open the ticketing for you to come to the special FujiiCast workshop event at the House of Photography in London on Saturday 2nd March. Also today, XH-2 lock-ups and a theory of card husbandr…

1
Exploring Heavy Metal, Horror Films, and Juggalo Culture with Jeremy Bryant 58:50

7M ago58:50

58:50

Guest of honor, Jeremy Bryant is joining us for an enlightening chat, imparting his expertise on metal music, horror films, and the intriguing lifestyle of Juggalos. Our conversation takes us on a journey through Jeremy's high school years, shedding light on how his love for the band Sticks shaped his musical taste. Tag along as we dive into Jeremy…

1
Q&A Bonus Episode (Season 5, + Janie's story returning soon) 28:29

7M ago28:29

28:29

Season 5, bonus episode. Ingrid answers listeners' questions, talks about the future of My Love Letter Time Machine, and introduces her Grandfather Owen's memoirs, (who was a nurse in the Royal Navy during WW2). Ingrid will come back with Janie’s story in the Spring in a new season of the podcast, and then lead into story of her family getting thro…

1
Backstage Pass to Burlesque Cults & Rock & Roll A Deep Dive with Sid Stratton 1:05:09

7M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

Prepare for a wild ride as we go backstage with Baranot Regrets and Sid Stratton to uncover the magic and mayhem of the music world. Our journey starts with a nostalgic trip down memory lane as Sid reveals his life-long love affair with music, triggered by the iconic Batman Forever soundtrack. Hear his fond recollections of partying with Jimmy Buff…

1
#260: BIG ANNOUNCEMENT for the FujiCast London event 2nd March 2024 44:37

8M ago44:37

44:37

Kev has a dental appointment at two-thirty, TRUE, he really does, so we’re recording this before he finds “Drinks Reception” even harder to say! One thing that’s making him feel better is the big announcement for our FujiCast event at The House of Photography in London on Saturday March 2nd, which we an now officially reveal. At the event, we’ll be…

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