“The places, the people who make me the most angry, the things that make me feel the most keenly aggravated are places where I probably need to look at myself first.”
GLEN PHILLIPS
Exploring Resilience and Creativity with Glen Phillips Toad the Wet Sprocket
In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles engages in a heartfelt conversation with Glen Phillips Toad the Wet Sprocket frontman, about his artistic journey, personal challenges, and the themes of his new solo album, โThere Is So Much Here.โ Glen reflects on the transformative power of music and how his experiences, including a life-altering accident, have shaped his songwriting and perspective on life. The discussion delves into the importance of vulnerability, the creative process, and the significance of staying true to oneself in an industry often driven by external validation.
In this episode you’ll learn:
- Resilience: Glen shares how he navigated the challenges of a severe injury that threatened his ability to play guitar, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
- Creativity: He discusses the ebb and flow of creativity, noting that some years are more about storing experiences than producing new work, and how this influences his songwriting.
- Self-Reflection: Glen highlights the value of examining personal emotions, particularly anger, as a pathway to greater compassion and understanding of oneself and others.
- Artistic Integrity: He reflects on the struggle between creating commercially successful music versus writing from a place of authenticity and personal truth.
- Community: The conversation touches on the importance of community and connection in the creative process, as well as the role of curiosity in fostering artistic growth.
WHY IS THIS A MUST-LISTEN?
Why is this a must-listen? This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the creative process. Glen Phillipsโ candid reflections on his journey through adversity, his commitment to authenticity in his art, and his exploration of deep emotional themes resonate with listeners. Whether you are an artist, a fan of music, or someone navigating personal challenges, Glenโs story offers valuable lessons on resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of creativity.
Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to:
- Examine feelings of righteous indignation to foster self-reflection and compassion towards others.
- Embrace the power of intentionality to unlock personal growth and become the best version of oneself.
- Recognize the importance of curiosity and mindfulness in daily life to enhance creativity and emotional awareness.
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Swallowed by the New: Glen Phillips and John R. Miles on Music as a Guide Through Lifeโs Storms
During their conversation on the Passion Struck podcast, Glen Phillips and host John R. Miles delved into the deeply personal resonance of Phillipsโ 2016 album, Swallowed by the New. For Phillips, the album stands out as his favorite, and for Miles, it became a lifeline during one of the most challenging times of his life.
The two connected over their shared experiences of navigating divorce, as both went through similar life transitions while Phillips was creating the album. โIt felt like you were writing the soundtrack to my own journey,โ Miles reflected, noting how the themes of loss, healing, and rediscovery in Swallowed by the New gave him a sense of comfort and clarity in moments of emotional turbulence.
Phillips described Swallowed by the New as a turning point in his career and life, born from a period of upheaval that included a divorce and reevaluation of his lifeโs direction. The album stands as a testament to resilience and self-discovery, offering listeners a raw, unfiltered glimpse into his inner world during a time of significant transition.
โChange is inevitable, but how we respond to it defines us,โ Phillips said during the conversation. The albumโs lyrics, he explained, are rooted in his quest to find meaning and growth in moments of profound uncertainty.
Themes of Connection and Vulnerability
Phillips and Miles explored the recurring themes of connection and vulnerability woven throughout the album. Tracks like Go and Grief and Praise highlight the necessity of embracing both the beauty and the pain of life’s transitions. Phillips shared that this duality was pivotal to his own healing process, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the Passion Struck audience.
โMusic has a unique way of holding space for emotions we often suppress,โ Phillips noted. โWith Swallowed by the New, I wanted to create an album that didnโt shy away from the messy parts of being human.โ
Bridging Past and Present
Reflecting on his work with Toad the Wet Sprocket, Phillips discussed how his solo endeavors have allowed him to push boundaries and explore new creative depths. While his earlier work with Toad the Wet Sprocket often tackled universal themes, Swallowed by the New felt like an intimate letter to himselfโand to anyone navigating their own storms of change.
Miles highlighted how the album aligns with the podcastโs core themes of intentional living and self-mastery. โYour music reminds us that transformation often comes not from avoiding discomfort but from walking straight through it,โ Miles said.
Navigating Success and Personal Fulfillment: Insights from Glen Phillips
Glen Phillips reflected on his early career, noting that he felt he peaked professionally between the ages of 23 and 27. However, he expressed a desire to continue evolving creatively, stating, “I like to think I haven’t hit my creative peak yet.” This sentiment resonates with many individuals who find themselves at a crossroads, questioning whether their past achievements define their future potential. Phillips’ perspective encourages listeners to embrace the idea that personal growth and fulfillment can occur at any stage of life.
A significant theme in Phillips’ discussion was the realization that success is not solely measured by external validation or fame. He shared how he has come to appreciate his current position in life, recognizing that making a living through art and positively impacting others is a valid and successful place to be. This shift in mindset has allowed him to find joy in his work, even when it may not align with mainstream recognition.
In his latest album, โThere Is So Much Here,โ Phillips explores themes of resilience, change, and the complexities of human emotions. The album serves as a testament to his journey of self-discovery and the importance of authenticity in his songwriting. He noted that the subjects he writes aboutโsuch as purposefulness, mortality, and griefโare relevant to him and resonate with others who may be navigating similar challenges.
Phillips also touched on the idea of being present and mindful in the creative process. He mentioned that while touring and performing can be exhausting, they also provide a unique opportunity for introspection and connection with his audience. This balance between the demands of a creative career and the need for personal fulfillment is a struggle many face, and Phillips’ insights offer valuable guidance on how to navigate this journey.
Ultimately, Phillips’ conversation on the Passion Struck podcast serves as a reminder that success is not a destination but a continuous journey. By focusing on personal fulfillment and staying true to oneself, individuals can redefine their paths and find meaning in their experiences. As Phillips continues to create and share his music, he exemplifies the idea that there is always more to explore, learn, and achieveโboth personally and professionally.
THANKS, Glen Phillips
If you enjoyed this interview with Glen Phillips, let him know by clicking on the link below and sending him a quick shout on Instagram:
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If you want us to answer your questions or you want John to discuss a topic on one of our upcoming Momentum Friday episodes, drop us a line at [email protected].
RESOURCES FROM THE SHOW WITH GLEN PHILLIPS
Please note that some of the links on this page (books, movies, music, etc.) lead to affiliate programs for which The Passion Struck podcast receives compensation. Itโs just one of the ways we keep the lights on around here. Thank you so much for being so supportive!
- Glen Phillips’ Website
- Glen Phillips’ Instagram
- BUY Glen Phillips’ new record โThere Is So Much Hereโ
- Passion Struck Core Value System: https://passionstruck.com/the-passion-struck-core-belief-system/
- Listen to Passion Struckโs interviews with New York Times bestselling authors Gretchen Rubin and Seth Godin.
- Check out Passion Struckโs Episode Starter Packs on Spotify or Passion Struck starter packs to get started with the podcast.
My solo episode on How Do You STOP Living in Fear and Letting It CONTROL You?
Canโt miss my episode with Jen Bricker-Bauer On: Everything is Possible
Watch my episode with Gerry Hussey on How You Lead Yourself to Infinite Potential
Discover my interview with Bo Eason on How to Transform Your Lowest Moments
My episode with Diego Perez on The Way Forward: From Trauma to Triumph
About Todayโs Guest, Glen Phillips
Glen Phillips is a celebrated solo artist and the frontman of the iconic band Toad the Wet Sprocket. With a career spanning over three decades, Glen’s music is known for its introspective lyrics and emotional depth, resonating with fans around the world. He first gained recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s, during which Toad the Wet Sprocket produced several hit albums and singles that defined the alternative rock sound of the era.
In addition to his work with Toad, Glen has cultivated a successful solo career, showcasing his growth as a songwriter and musician. His solo work often explores themes of change, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships, reflecting his personal experiences and insights. Notably, Glen faced a life-altering challenge in 2008 when a severe accident resulted in nerve damage to his left arm, forcing him to relearn the guitar and adapt his playing style. This experience deepened his understanding of resilience and the human spirit, which he channels into his music.
Glen’s artistic journey is marked by a commitment to authenticity and a desire to connect with his audience on a profound level. He continues to tour and create music, inspiring others with his vulnerability and passion for the craft. Whether performing with Toad or as a solo artist, Glen Phillips remains a powerful voice in the music industry, dedicated to exploring the intricacies of life through his art.
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