Best Josh Withers Podcasts (2025)

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#17: Josh Withers - "Getting married isn’t the point" 35:52

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23d ago35:52

35:52

Josh Withers joins Kiera for the first in a series of bonus episodes where she sits down with vendors who really know what they’re doing and aren’t afraid to tell it like it is. This series is all about giving you real, practical insight into what it takes to plan an epic day, straight from the people who live and breathe weddings. First up: your c…

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#20: Meg Byers - "The dress was botched" 47:09

1d ago47:09

47:09

Meg Byers joins Kiera to talk about what wedding planning really felt like - from the outside, her day looked cool, coastal and effortless. But behind the scenes, things got messy. From TikTok-induced doubt to a botched designer dress and full-blown emotional shutdown, Meg had to dig deep to find her way back to joy. In this episode, she opens up a…

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Alcoholism & Recovery: Reclaiming Life After Addiction w/ Jake Miller 44:36

2d ago44:36

44:36

Alcohol is the most dangerous drug most of us normalize. Recovery is daily and relentless—but it’s how you get your life back. A candid mental health episode about what alcoholism really costs, losing your main coping skill to injury, life changes that isolate you, and what it takes to start over when this drug destroys your life. Content note: exp…

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Singing and Songwriting, with The Wailin' Jennys 1:11:03

4d ago1:11:03

1:11:03

The Wailin' Jennys have been singing together for more than two decades - recording albums, touring the world, and filling venues large and small. After all these years, the trio—Ruth Moody, Heather Masse, and Nicky Mehta—have reached both a plateau and an inflection point. What's it like for a musical group that's been together for that long; for …

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It's hard for AI to describe a wedding photographer’s presence on the day 51:51

7d ago51:51

51:51

In this episode of For Those Of You Who Don't Know Me, I chat with photographer Joshua Mikhaiel about how the wedding world is changing and what that means for couples and vendors alike. We dive into the so-called “wedding tax,” whether AI has a real role in planning, and why personal touch always matters more than any tool. We talk about wedding p…

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Rebuilding After Trauma: Aftermath Of Domestic Abuse & Divorce w/ Kristi Morris 46:09

8d ago46:09

46:09

Adulthood after childhood trauma: a suicide attempt, single motherhood (with four kids), domestic abuse, a devastating divorce, custody and court battles, and what actually helped. A candid mental health episode with trauma-recovery tools, boundaries, and co-parenting realities with an abusive ex-partner. Content note: suicidal thoughts/attempt; do…

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#19: Julia Sharpe - "I had decision paralysis" 30:39

9d ago30:39

30:39

Julia Sharpe joins Kiera to share the story of her high-energy, heart-filled wedding in New Orleans. A day complete with a second line parade, an epic bridal party of 32 and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. Planning the celebration while deep in her first year of medical school, Julia relied on an incredible planner, a little New Orlea…

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Trauma & Disassociation: Surviving Sexual Assault & Child Abuse w/ Kristi Morris 50:31

15d ago50:31

50:31

In this episode, we delve into how sexual assault, childhood abuse, and early dissociation shape trust, identity, and coping mechanisms in trauma recovery—a survivor’s poignant story shared by Kristi Morris. Join us for a candid discussion on the importance of language and validation in healing, and learn how finding safety is essential in navigati…

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#18: Madelyn Carafa - "“I didn’t even try on a single wedding dress” 42:58

16d ago42:58

42:58

Madelyn Carafa joins Kiera to share what it really felt like to plan a wedding while staying grounded in intention. Known for her work as the founder of The Healthy Hustlers, Madelyn is all about living in alignment and creating a life that feels good from the inside out. But even with her deep sense of self, planning a wedding brought up more emot…

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Talkin' Tower of Power, with Adam Maness and Peter Martin [You'll Hear It] 1:12:30

18d ago1:12:30

1:12:30

Back in May, Kirk joined pianists Adam Maness and Peter Martin of the You'll Hear It podcast to talk about what makes Tower of Power great. It was a very fun conversation, so he asked if he could run their episode in the Strong Songs feed. And here we are! Listen to You'll Hear It anywhere you find podcasts, and find both Adam and Peter (and many o…

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So the invitation said 'we love your children, but' 45:37

26d ago45:37

45:37

Sarah-Louise Anderson reveals how her $60,000 micro-wedding sparked family feuds, severed friendships, and taught her which relationships were worth keeping—all over ginger beer and missing guests.By Josh Withers

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#16: Alice Pollard - "It felt like our Pinterest board in real life" 30:21

30d ago30:21

30:21

Alice Pollard joins Kiera to share what it’s really like planning a wedding with a full-time job, two kids, and zero spare hours in the day. In this episode, she unpacks the hidden load of trying to do it all - navigating timelines, decisions, and logistics while constantly running on empty. From weather stress to budget blowouts, disappearing rose…

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A Song For My Father 39:33

1M ago39:33

39:33

THE APOCALYPSE WERE: Tony Capuano - Guitar, Lead Vocals John Shorb - Alto Sax Gene Meros - Tenor Sax Greg Novik - Bass, Backing Vocals (guitar on Stormy Monday) Oggie Hamilton - Drums, Backing Vocals Featuring The Apocalypse playing: “Good Good Lovin’” and “Try Me” by James Brown “Hi-Heel Sneakers" by Tommy Tucker “The Shadow of Your Smile” by Mand…

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#15: Isabela Rose Becker - "Social media puts so much pressure on weddings" 42:24

1M ago42:24

42:24

Isabela Becker joins Kiera to pull back the curtain on what it really felt like to plan a wedding while carrying more than anyone realised. In this episode, she shares how social pressure, people-pleasing, and overwhelming expectations crept into every part of the process, leaving her drained, second-guessing herself, and struggling to stay grounde…

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Playing Battleships with wedding photographers 38:51

1M ago38:51

38:51

Film photography is overrated, organic carrots don't make a good wedding, and Kiera Ryan from Creative Weddings Byron Bay chooses the three wedding photographers she would get if she was getting married this afternoon as she joins the first episode of my new podcast, For those of you who don't know me… Links from the episode: Bayleigh Vedelago wedd…

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#14: Rachel Chevell - "I had an anxiety attack on my wedding day" 34:55

1M ago34:55

34:55

Rachel Chevell joins Kiera to unpack the emotional layers of planning your own wedding, especially when you’re used to being behind the scenes. She thought she knew what to expect. But between the pressure to please everyone, unexpected costs, and the emotional weight of the day, planning her own wedding hit harder than anticipated. From hiding in …

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Masculinity, Feminism & Mental Health: Understanding Vulnerability w/ Josh Guffey 3:28:43

2M ago3:28:43

3:28:43

How men’s mental health, masculinity and feminism collide—suicide risk, real strengths, and why “toxic” isn’t the same as masculine. A candid episode about containers for emotion, respect, repair, and showing up like a grownup—at home, on dates, and with friends. Content note: explicit language; gender politics; sensitive topics. If you’re struggli…

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#13: Nikolina Borovina - "I 3D modelled the whole thing" 33:24

2M ago33:24

33:24

Nikolina Borovina joins Kiera to unpack the kind of wedding that doesn’t fit inside a mood board. An architect by trade, she turned a blank sports club into a high-concept celebration- designing custom 3D layouts, building 80 handmade centrepieces, and mapping every detail down to the millimetre. But beyond the design was pressure: being the first …

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#12: Kelli France - "We planned a wedding in 100 days" 30:19

2M ago30:19

30:19

Kelli France joins Kiera to share what it was like planning her daughter’s wedding in just 100 days. A confidence coach and mother of four, Kelli brought her signature clarity and care into every decision, while navigating budget constraints, big feelings, and the delicate art of letting go. From family dynamics to creative compromises, Kelli refle…

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"Lean On Me" by Bill Withers 58:45

2M ago58:45

58:45

For the Season Seven finale, Kirk takes a look at Bill Withers' enduring hit "Lean On Me." In the process, he takes a broader look at a bunch of Withers' other most famous songs to better understand how this plainspoken, seemingly ordinary guy managed to write so many extraordinary songs. Written by: Bill Withers Album: Still Bill, 1972 Listen/Buy …

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Living With Schizophrenia: Embracing Creativity In Psychosis w/ Rachel Star Withers 2:19:17

2M ago2:19:17

2:19:17

How living with schizophrenia and creativity emerging from psychosis intersect—plus suicidal ideation, stigma, and finding meaning through your passions. A raw, candid conversation with creator/advocate Rachel Star Withers on telling your truth online without glamorizing pain, and navigating relationships and employment while symptomatic. Content n…

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#11: Kat John - "The day trumped my vision" 37:30

2M ago37:30

37:30

Kat John sits down with Kiera to share the story behind a wedding that was deeply intentional, beautifully untraditional, and wholly true to who she and Steve are. Known for guiding others to live from their truth, Kat brings that same grounded, no-bullshit energy into her wedding planning journey - ditching the pressure, skipping the traditions, a…

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#10: Felicia Tanner - "I didn’t ask for feedback - I wanted validation" 33:46

2M ago33:46

33:46

Felicia Tanner joins Kiera to share how she pulled off a wedding that was stylish, intentional, and refreshingly low-drama. From curating a bar menu in her PJs to switching dresses two months out, nothing was off-limits - and nothing was sugar-coated. They talk decision fatigue, budget meltdowns, opinion overload, and the satisfaction of making you…

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Bluegrass, Blue Prince, and the Blues 59:33

2M ago59:33

59:33

Kirk answers a bunch of listener questions on topics like bluegrass guitar, the music of Blue Prince, good apps for training theory skills, Robert Fripp's "Frippertronics," a mysterious sound on a Gene Clark song, different types of music notation, and the legacy of the blues. All that, and a trio of terrific singer/songwriters stops by the studio …

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Faith & Mental Health: Finding Spirituality Without Performance 3:04:19

3M ago3:04:19

3:04:19

How to build your own spiritual path—with doubt, humor, and honesty—without the costume or the court of public opinion or religious labels. A candid mental health episode on faith vs. performance, community without conformity, and practices that actually support you. Content note: explicit language; religious critique. If you’re struggling (U.S.): …

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#9: Georgia Whitaker - "I refused to get out of the car" 34:25

3M ago34:25

34:25

Georgia Whitaker joins Kiera to unpack the wedding she never thought she’d have - trading elopement dreams for a full celebration with everyone they loved. A Byron Bay local legend (and if you know Byron, you know Georgia), she brings her signature humour to the conversation as she shares the unexpected anxiety on the day, the behind-the-scenes fam…

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#8: Rachael McAdam - "I broke my leg 6 weeks out" 32:33

3M ago32:33

32:33

Rachael McAdam joins Kiera to unpack her wedding planning journey - one that took a turn just weeks out with a broken leg, a shifted perspective, and a whole lot of letting go. What started as a vision grounded in creativity and intention turned into a lesson in surrender, support, and choosing what really matters. From emotional burnout to vendor …

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"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" by The Police 1:00:16

3M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

In 1981, Sting brought a demo of a song he'd been working on down to AIR Studios in Montserrat to see what his bandmates thought of it... and they wound up keeping the demo and just recording their parts on top. The result was "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," an unusual Police song, but an enduring hit. On this episode, Kirk goes deep on eve…

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Navigating Shadow Work & Dangerous Urges: Safe Expression Vs. Exploitation 1:33:03

3M ago1:33:03

1:33:03

How to face dangerous urges with safe expression and guided exploration—never exploitation. A candid episode on preventing harm, consent, boundaries, and getting professional help when the urges are just too much—no glamorizing, no excuses. Content note: explicit language; discussion of sexual harm prevention; sensitive topics. If you’re struggling…

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#7: Cassie Burton - "I thought I could do it myself" 26:47

3M ago26:47

26:47

Cassie Burton joins Kiera to talk through the wedding that looked low-key on the outside—but carried the same pressure, expectations, and emotional weight as any big event. From family dynamics to second-guessing decisions, she shares what surprised her, what grounded her, and why keeping the day true to them was always the priority. It’s honest, r…

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Acceptance As Growth: Exploring Friendship & Accountability w/ Josh Guffey 2:15:19

3M ago2:15:19

2:15:19

How acceptance, accountability, and friendship catalyze personal growth—own your truths, embrace regrets, and choose repair over drama. A candid episode on good vs. harmful teachers, negative mentor impact, and speaking mental health early in clear, relatable language. Content note: explicit language; dark humor. If you’re struggling (U.S.): Call/T…

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#6: Taylor Clements - “It wasn’t what I planned—but it was perfect” 27:36

3M ago27:36

27:36

Taylor Clements joins Kiera to unpack the real story behind her Byron Bay wedding—planned from interstate, postponed thanks to COVID, and pulled off with trust, intention, and a whole lot of heart. What started as a vision for an effortless beachside celebration turned into two venues, surprise bus rides, a rain-soaked ceremony, and one of the most…

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"All The Things You Are" by Jerome Kern & Oscar Hammerstein II 59:47

3M ago59:47

59:47

The jazz standard "All The Things You Are" has been performed countless times by master jazz vocalists, 30s big bands, bebop small groups, hard-bop combos, modern deconstructionists, and even soon-to-be Kings of Pop. On this episode, Kirk takes listeners through the history of the now-famous tune, from its humble Broadway origins all the way to his…

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Embrace Your Shadow Self: Authenticity In Darkness 1:31:19

4M ago1:31:19

1:31:19

How accepting your shadow side makes you safer, saner, and more whole—less performative, more authentic. Denial is unhealthy (and a little pretentious). Practical integration tools and healthy exploration—no mystic cosplay, no platitudes. Content note: explicit language; dark humor. If you’re struggling (U.S.): Call/Text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifel…

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#5: Lizzy Thomas - "My mum's speech caught me off guard" 31:50

4M ago31:50

31:50

Lizzy Thomas is in the hot seat this week, sitting down with Kiera to unpack the reality behind her visually unforgettable Byron Bay wedding—one that started as a plan to elope in Italy and ended with 18 vendors, a marquee build, and a feature in Hello May. They talk about the pressure of doing things “the right way,” navigating religious expectati…

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#4: Zoe Urquhart - "What kind of royalty do we think we are?" 33:34

4M ago33:34

33:34

Zoe Urquhart is the definition of grace under pressure—and in this episode, she sits down with Kiera to unpack her wedding planning journey, from wild weather threats (yes, an actual cyclone) to emotional curveballs no one saw coming. They talk decision fatigue, family dynamics, budgeting realities, and the pressure to make every choice feel person…

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Healing From PTSD: A Vietnam Veterans Story | Life After War w/ Marc Wichman 2:44:16

4M ago2:44:16

2:44:16

How PTSD, childhood trauma, and the chaos of coming home shape a veteran’s life—and how therapy can keep you alive and help you build peace. A candid conversation with my Great Uncle and Vietnam veteran Marc Wichman on combat, marriage, grief, and recovery—no platitudes. Content note: graphic war stories; childhood abuse; explicit language. If you’…

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#3: Jaimee Shaw - "You need to consider the vibe they bring" 29:56

4M ago29:56

29:56

Jamiee Shaw—content creator and newlywed—joins Kiera to talk about the mental load of wedding planning and what it really felt like behind the scenes. From the pressure of people-pleasing to the chaos of seating charts, Jamie shares how she navigated expectations, leaned into what actually felt right, and let go of the rest. They dive into the emot…

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#2: Ebonie Cooper - "I'm not even invited on this podcast" 30:42

4M ago30:42

30:42

Ebonie Cooper is a past bride turned friend—and in this episode, she sits down with Kiera to talk through what really went down. From planning a wedding while navigating life with her now-husband Tom Cooper, a professional cricket player, to managing family expectations, guest list drama, and the pressure to please everyone. They also talk about th…

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#1: Eva Hendricks - "It was like an out of body experience" 39:51

4M ago39:51

39:51

Eva Hendricks—frontwoman of Charly Bliss—joins Kiera to talk wedding planning, emotional chaos, and what hit her harder than the spotlight ever has, as she shares what it was really like planning a wedding while touring across the U.S. Eva opens up about the pressure to hold it all together, the moments no one prepares you for, and the emotional we…

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"Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Jim Steinman and Bonnie Tyler 1:00:19

4M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

Turn around... every now and then I get a little lonely and the snare is sounding small Turn around... every now and then I get a little bit tired of listening to the sound of sleigh bells Turn around... every now and then I get a little bit nervous that the cannons will not fire Turn around... ...every now and then Kirk decides to take on a classi…

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Rhythm & Cognition: How Drumming Improves IQ & Learning w/ Chris Brien 2:29:14

4M ago2:29:14

2:29:14

How drumming shapes cognition—improving attention, learning, and neuroplasticity—plus synesthesia and real ASMR (not clickbait). A candid episode on practice systems, teaching mindsets, and why rhythm training can sharpen how you think—on and off the kit. Content note: explicit language. If you’re struggling (U.S.): Call/Text 988 (Suicide & Crisis …

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Bluey, Background Jazz, and the 'Best' Metal Guitar Solo 1:08:00

4M ago1:08:00

1:08:00

How should you count The Police's "Bed's Too Big Without You?" Why do so many people revere Marty Friedman's solo on Megadeth's "Tornado of Souls"? What's going on with those pauses during the Bluey theme? And what the heck is that sound on Sly and the Family Stone's "Sex Machine"? Those questions and many more on the first mailbag episode of Seaso…

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Fix pricing, not prices 1:10:33

5M ago1:10:33

1:10:33

Hannah, a new celebrant, has asked us to talk about pricing, prices, how to price yourself as a celebrant and whether it's ok to charge less when you're first starting out.