Morning Almonds Podcast

From Opening for GWAR to Leading the Midwest Doom Coalition: Shane Murray’s Journey Forward

In the 7th episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, join host, Joshua Zeck, and his guest, Shane “The General” Murray—guitarist, songwriter, and concert promoter from Lawrence, Kansas, and leader of the cosmic stoner doom band They Watch Us From The Moon. Shane shares his journey through the Midwest music scene, from his earliest musical memories to founding the Midwest Doom Coalition, a network supporting up-and-coming bands.
Discover how Shane’s experiences in bands like Slack Jaw, Creeper, and Truth Cell shaped his approach to music and community. Hear wild stories about opening for GWAR, collaborating with legendary keyboardist Tommy Stephenson (Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh), and the origins of They Watch Us From The Moon’s theatrical, sci-fi-inspired performances. The episode also dives into the challenges of self-promotion, building a musical legacy, and the importance of community in the DIY music world.
Your host also discusses How to Know a Person by David Brooks and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. 
Whether you’re a fan of punk, doom, or stoner rock, or just love stories of perseverance and creativity, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a celebration of underground music culture.
Resources:
Midwest Doom Coalition | Facebook
Official TWUFTM (@theywatchusfromthemoon) • Instagram photos and videos
They Watch Us from the Moon! | Spotify
Music | They Watch Us From the Moon
 
Keywords: Shane Murray, They Watch Us From The Moon, Midwest Doom Coalition, Lawrence Kansas music, stoner doom, punk rock, concert promotion, GWAR, Tommy Stephenson, cosmic rock, band networking, DIY music, legacy, music community, Morning Almonds podcast. the Outhouse, the Bottleneck, Mammoth Productions
Bands Mentioned in This Episode:
They Watch Us From The Moon
Slack Jaw
Creeper
Truth Cell
GWAR
Dead Kennedys
Scorpions
Queen
Circle Jerks
Black Flag
Sleep
Clutch
Kyuss
Hawkwind
Sleep
St. Vitus
Monster Magnet
Holy Ghost
Wormwood
Samothrace
Castle Rat
Cocknoose
Godhead
High Desert Queen
Spirit Mother
Bongzilla
Dope Throne
Red Beard Wall
The Bad Ideas
Low Forest
Reptile House
 

The Ultimate Christmas Vacation Quiz!!!!

Ep 6:🎄 Welcome to a special holiday edition of the Morning Almonds Podcast! In this festive episode, host Joshua Zeck brings you the “Ultimate Christmas Vacation Quiz,” inspired by the classic film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for some holiday fun, this interactive quiz is perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in.
You’ll also hear about the importance of giving back through the Salvation Army Angel Tree campaign, a creative way to make a difference this season. Plus, get access to printable quiz questions and answer sheets—perfect for your next Christmas event!
Tune in for:
100 fun and challenging Christmas Vacation trivia questions
Tips for using the quiz at your holiday party or family night
A personal challenge to support children in need through the Angel Tree program
Reflections on the true spirit of the holidays
Don’t miss this joyful, community-focused episode packed with Christmas cheer, movie nostalgia, and practical ways to spread kindness. Subscribe to the Morning Almonds podcast for more episodes on music, food, storytelling, and honest conversation.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
SALVATION ARMY/WALMART Angel Tree Campaign
Quiz Questions
Quiz Answer Key
Keywords: Christmas Vacation quiz, holiday trivia, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Christmas podcast, Angel Tree campaign, Salvation Army, holiday party ideas, family Christmas games, Christmas traditions, giving back, Morning Almonds podcast.
Listen now and make your holiday season brighter!

How Life Changed My Music: A Journey of Music and Memories

Ep 5: In this heartfelt episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, we dive deep into the transformative power of music and how it shapes our lives plus the psychology of music in public. Host Joshua Zeck shares personal stories, from childhood memories of Neil Diamond, Prince, Roy Orbison, and Dion, to discovering the raw energy of live music. 
Explore the evolution from worship songs and classic rock to the rebellious sounds of KRS-One, Boogie Down Productions, Public Enemy, Tribe Called Quest, and the genre-bending styles of 311. Relive the magic of live shows with bands like Steppenwolf, Wilco, Typo Negative, No Doubt, PJ Harvey, Bush, Goo Goo Dolls, The Urge, Reverend Horton Heat and more.
Josh reminisces about the 90s music scene, he also shares stories from legendary festivals like Lollapalooza, featuring Metallica, Soundgarden, Rancid, Ramones, Cocteau Twins, Screaming Trees, Ben Folds Five, and Sponge.
Discover new favorites as Josh discusses recent listens: The Revivalists, Magic City Hippies, Thievery Corporation, Stick Figure, Tosca, John Kennedy, Coyote Island, East Forest, Gramatik, Moderator, Aesop Rock, Fugazi, and more. Plus, hear about unforgettable concerts with Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, Ween, Long Beach Dub All Stars, Pato Banton, Poppy, Jane’s Addiction, and Smashing Pumpkins.
Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, rap, ska, grunge, or indie, this episode is a celebration of music’s power to connect, heal, and inspire.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
https://open.spotify.com/user/31rxkfdyo4httmnywjmf53t5xypq?si=ecbbe3603cbb45b4
JZ - playlist by J Zeck | Spotify
JZ AM - playlist by J Zeck | Spotify
Don't De-Rock Me - song and lyrics by Tesla | Spotify
Paw | Spotify
Alchemy of the Heart - Album by Ram Dass, David Starfire | Spotify
Misfits of Ska I - Compilation by Various Artists | Spotify
Music (The Angels Fly Because They Take Themselves Lightly) • Akira The Don, Alan Watts
 
Keywords: Ween, Neil Diamond, Prince, Roy Orbison, Dion, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, NWA, KRS-One, Boogie Down Productions, Public Enemy, Tribe Called Quest, 311, Sublime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Steppenwolf, Wilco, Type O Negative, No Doubt, PJ Harvey, Bush, Goo Goo Dolls, The Urge, Reverend Horton Heat, Tripping Daisy, Paw, Godzillionaire, Stick, Tenderloin, Slackjaw, Salty Iguanas, Kill Creek, Morphine, Soul Coughing, Cake, Radiohead, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Matthew Sweet, Tesla, Lollapalooza, Metallica, Soundgarden, Rancid, Ramones, Cocteau Twins, Screaming Trees, Ben Folds Five, Sponge, The Revivalists, Magic City Hippies, Thievery Corporation, Stick Figure, Tosca, John Kennedy, Coyote Island, East Forest, Moderator, Aesop Rock, Fugazi, Les Claypool, Fearless Flying Frog Brigade,
Long Beach Dub All Stars, Pato Banton, Poppy, Jane’s Addiction, Smashing Pumpkins.
 

Intro to the Four Agreements with Professor Christina Gentzsch

Episode Four of the Morning Almonds Podcast, "Intro to the Four Agreements," is where we begin to explore the life-changing wisdom of Don Miguel Ruiz’s bestselling book, "The Four Agreements." Host Joshua Zeck is joined by special guest Christina Gentzsch, who brings her unique perspective and personal experiences to the conversation.
Together, we break down the Four Agreements—Be Impeccable with Your Word, Don’t Take Anything Personally, Don’t Make Assumptions, and Always Do Your Best—and discuss how these principles can lead to greater personal growth, self-improvement, and fulfillment. Christina shares insightful stories and practical tips for applying these agreements in everyday life, making this episode a must-listen for anyone on a journey of self-discovery.
Tune in to this engaging podcast episode to learn how you can transform your mindset, relationships, and overall well-being with the Four Agreements. Perfect for fans of personal development, mindfulness, and those seeking actionable advice from inspiring guests.
 
Resources & Links:
Iowa Cellist
Dynamic Music Studios LLC | Music Lessons | Coralville, IA
BetterHelp - Get Started & Sign-Up Today
T-Rex plays the cello!
The Sign - song and lyrics by Ace of Base | Spotify
Da Ya Think I'm Sexy? - song and lyrics by Rod Stewart | Spotify
don Miguel Ruiz 
The Four Agreements Official Website
Abraham-Hicks Publications - Law of Attraction Official Site
Excerpt: The Power of Now A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment - Eckhart Tolle | Official Site - Spiritual Teachings and Tools For Personal Growth and Happiness
Morning Almonds FB page: Facebook
 
Keywords: The Four Agreements, Don Miguel Ruiz, podcast, personal growth, self-improvement, guest interview, mindfulness, self-mastery, Rod Stewart, T-Rex, BetterHelp,

Drum Luck – Inside the Lawrence, KS Music Scene with drummer Dave Melody of Slack Jaw & More

For the third episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, welcome to Drum Luck featuring drummer Dave Melody! Dive into the heart of the Lawrence, Kansas music scene as host Joshua Zeck and Dave explore the nourishing power of music, the journey of a working musician, and the raw impact of live performance. From stories of legendary venues and bands like SlackJaw, Truth Cell, and The Border Band, to insights on drumming, resilience, and the evolution of local music, this episode is packed with inspiration for musicians, music lovers, and anyone seeking creative nourishment. Discover how luck, preparation, and community shape a musician’s path. Don’t miss Dave’s reflections on family, food, and the importance of supporting local artists. Subscribe for more honest conversations, storytelling, and music culture!
Resources & Links:
Hurajan - Album by Truth Cell | Spotify
The Border Band | Spotify    
They Watch Us from the Moon! | Spotify
@theywatchusfromthemoon on instagram
http://theywatchusfromthemoon.bandcamp.com/
Fluctorock
https://youtube.com/@automaticwolf6009?si=rQzWo3Jmi5VvGqaH
The Gothic Cowboy-Melvin Litton-Border Band
Morning Almonds Facebook Page: Facebook
Promo pics, flyers, and more in the show notes on Facebook
Keywords: Lawrence Kansas music, drummer Dave Melody, Morning Almonds podcast, Slack Jaw, Truth Cell, Border Band, local music scene, drumming journey, live music, musician resilience, music podcast, creative nourishment, Flucto, They Watch Us from the Moon, Automatic Wolf, the Outhouse, the Bottleneck, 311, Chad Sexton, Clutch, Rush, William S. Burroughs 
 
Time Stamps: 
00:01:27 Welcome Dave and earliest musical memory
00:06:39 What a Rush!!!!
00:12:58 Lay back on the beat
00:15:54 SlackJaw/90’s LFK
00:33:04 Stepping Stones/Practice makes Progress
00:49:06 Food and Gigs!!!!
01:02:55 Gutter punk incident
01:12:20 Musical Nourishment
01:18:00 My son! My wife!
01:26:36 Current projects
01:41:04 William S. Burrough’s/the Outhouse
01:46:27 Wrapping up: Luck is the residue of design
01:48:58 CTA/Outro

Only You with author Becca Lynn Mathis

Ep 2: Welcome to the Morning Almonds Podcast! In this inspiring episode, host Joshua Zeck shares his journey to starting this podcast and he sits down with author and audiobook narrator Becca Lynn Mathis, creator of the "Trials of the Blood" and "Tangled Soul" series. Dive into a candid conversation about creativity, overcoming obstacles, the journey from voiceover to podcasting, and the power of music, storytelling, and self-discovery. Whether you’re a writer, musician, or creative spirit, you’ll find actionable insights on building resilience, embracing your unique path, and nourishing your soul. Plus, learn about Becca’s writing process, her favorite music, and the importance of giving yourself grace. Don’t miss out—subscribe for more episodes on music, food, connection, and honest conversation!
Only You - song and lyrics by The Revivalists | Spotify
Inside Out - song and lyrics by Eve 6 | Spotify
Ram Dass Radio | Spotify Playlist
Connect with Becca Lynn Mathis:
Website: https://www.beccalynnmathis.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beccalynnmathis/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beccalynnmathis 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrialsOfTheBlood 
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BeccaLynnMathis
Online shop where you can purchase her books in ebook form directly from her: https://payhip.com/BeccaLynnMathis
Example of outline draft: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPB9vr0Da9w/
Book Playlists: https://www.beccalynnmathis.com/BONUS-CONTENT
Spotify writing playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/59rekHHdJAt5mZxhdfVlZC
Books: “Trials of the Blood” and “Tangled Soul” series (available on Audible)
Resources Mentioned:
“On Writing” by Stephen King
“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
“Seven Secrets of the Prolific” by Hillary Rettig
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little nourishment. New episodes drop bi-weekly—bring a friend and join us on the journey!
For more links, playlists, and behind-the-scenes photos, check the Morning Almonds  Facebook page. 
Keywords: podcast, Morning Almonds, Becca Lynn Mathis, author interview, audiobook narration, creativity, ADHD, voiceover, podcasting, resilience, music, storytelling, D&D, Renaissance fair, self-discovery, personal growth, The Four Agreements, writing process, community events, No Doubt, Eve 6, Taylor Swift, Shinedown, The Revivalists 
 
Time Stamps:
Host’s journey from scooping cat litter to podcasting 1:17
“Morning Almonds” origin story 10:56
Welcome Becca Lynn Mathis/Earliest Musical Memory 12:27
A bloody white Les Paul 27:27
ADHD and finding your own path 38:51
1% Better! Give yourself grace! 46:43
Becca’s passion for writing, D&D, Renaissance fairs, and community events 49:07
Insights from “The Four Agreements” 1:04:27
Only You, Wrap Up 1:08:50
CTA/Outro 1:10:01

What I Could Not Know: My Story

Content Warning: This episode contains mention of child sexual abuse. Listener discretion is advised. 
Welcome to the premier episode of the Morning Almonds Podcast, where raw storytelling meets real-life transformation. Host Joshua Zeck shares his unfiltered journey through childhood adversity, family dynamics, food insecurity, trauma, and the power of healing. Each episode dives deep into personal experiences—covering topics like overcoming abuse, navigating mental health, the impact of music and food, and the search for self-worth.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, connection, or practical advice on resilience, this podcast offers honest conversations about breaking cycles, embracing vulnerability, and finding hope. Discover how to turn pain into purpose, learn from life’s toughest lessons, and realize you’re not alone.
Tune in for guest interviews, deep dives into books like “The Four Agreements,” explorations of psychedelics for healing, and stories about fatherhood, relationships, and personal growth. If you’re ready to challenge your perspective, heal from the past, and grow into your best self, subscribe to the Morning Almonds Podcast—new episodes every two weeks.
Keywords: trauma recovery, resilience, mental health, personal growth, healing journey, overcoming adversity, family dynamics, food insecurity, music therapy, self-worth, storytelling podcast, Morning Almonds, podcast, real life stories, inspiration, self-help, emotional healing, abuse survivor, breaking cycles, vulnerability, hope, healing from trauma, life lessons, podcast for healing, self-discovery, personal transformation, The Four Agreements
Subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to know: you are not defined by your past.
Resources Mentioned:
“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
"Be Here Now" by Ram Dass
"How to Know a Person" by David Brooks
Check out the song "COULDN'T KNOW" BY PAW
https://open.spotify.com/track/0sbSKA3PrRb8y0HtJ9mmIu?si=c1ee4f0977174a09
https://youtu.be/-z96Q60uVuY?si=LIVDMchLsJaUxnKT 
 
If this story resonates with you, subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop every two weeks.
CHAPTER TIME STAMPS
0:17-INTRO/WELCOME
1:13-MY STORY BEGINS
4:28-"YOU DON'T HAVE A DAD!"
14:06-FOOD/THE HAMBURGER HELPER INCIDENT
18:13-90'S WICHITA TILLER ABORTION PROTESTS
21:06-CONTENT WARNING! SEXUAL ABUSE thru 24:52
26.44-MUSIC!!!!!
32:54-"I CAN LEAVE?" KU AND BEYOND
40:02-THE FOUR AGREEMENTS/RAM DASS/DAVID BROOKS
45:33-WRAP UP/WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD
46:57-CTA/OUTRO
 
 

Morning Almonds Trailer

Hosted by Joshua Zeck, Morning Almonds explores healing through storytelling, music, and community.