For a year and a half, I was a happy and proud member of the Bleeding Metal Podcast. The show focuses on Mental Health, Intersectional Feminism, LGBTQIA+ Rights, and more, all through the lens of women in metal.
The episodes I was involved with, either co-hosting, hosting, or editing, are:
Nightwish 2
In this episode of the Pod Friends series of Bleeding Metal, host Kiki welcomes former co-hosts Pia and Suzana, as well as NIGHTWISH-expert Simon McMurdo to discuss the current status of the Finnish Symphonic Metal legends.
Together, they delve into their personal connections with the band and later speculate on whether the band is on hiatus or if their previous shows were already a farewell. The episode concludes with reflections on the metal community and the importance of maintaining positive relationships within it.
03:55 Personal Connections to NIGHTWISH
10:53 Current Status of NIGHTWISH
14:10 Is It a Hiatus or Farewell?
26:11 NIGHTWISH-Reunion Speculations
31:11 Recent Line-Up Change in ARCH ENEMY
38:09 The Need for Transparency in the Metal Scene
43:19 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_QzJw5sqtM
Microactivism
Discover how an online magazine highlighting Women in Metal evolved into an impactful podcast that’s been challenging industry norms for years. Co-hosts Pia and Suzana share the fascinating transition from “Metal and High Heels” to the Bleeding Metal podcast, revealing how they moved beyond basic album reviews to tackle deeper conversations about gender equality in the Metal scene.
Through candid discussions, they explore the evolution of Feminism in Metal, from blatant discrimination to subtle biases that persist today. Their journey touches on crucial topics like micro activism, representation, and the ongoing debate about women-specific spaces in metal.
Recorded on April 8th, 2024. / Co-hosts Pia and Suzana / Episode edited by Pia.
Idol Culture
Dive into a fascinating conversation with Inger, vocalist of The Number Zero, as she unveils the complex layers of Japan’s diverse music scene. The discussion takes a critical look at the phenomenon of “idol culture,” particularly examining how young performers navigate an industry that often prioritizes image over artistic expression. Inger shares her perspective as a female metal vocalist performing alongside idol groups, highlighting the challenges of bridging different musical worlds and fanbases.
Recorded on January 30th / Hosted by Pia / Episode edited by Suzana.
Recap 2025
We share our favourite music of the year so far! Since we still are on different places of the globe, we didn’t manage to meet for this episode. Still we wanted to recommend some music to you!
Co-hosts Pia, Kiki, Martha and Suzana / Episode edited by Pia.
Music production
Breaking Barriers in Music Production: A Journey of Authenticity
Step into the world of Käthe Traumfahrt, a unique music producer who blends spiritual awareness with technical expertise to create transformative musical experiences. Specializing in rock, alternative, and pop music, Käthe has carved out her own niche in a male-dominated industry by creating a “fairycore” safe haven for artists to explore their creativity.
Despite facing gender-based prejudices, Käthe’s holistic approach and ability to connect deeply with clients sets her apart. Her studio serves as more than just a recording space – it’s a spiritual sanctuary and for Käthe it’s important that everyone feels comfortable.
From leading meditation sessions to producing podcast intros, Käthe’s diverse skill set enables her to work with both seasoned musicians and beginners. Her emphasis on authenticity and creating the right “vibe” has attracted an equal mix of male and female clients, with many women specifically seeking her guidance.
Ready to experience music production through a different lens? Join Käthe as she shares her journey of breaking barriers and creating transformative musical experiences that celebrate authenticity over mass appeal.
Recorded on January 13th, 2025 / Episode hosted by Pia / Episode edited by Suzana.
Disability and metal
“Not participating is not a solution” says MALLAVORA about how the UK-based, alt-metal band is not allowing disabilities to hold them back.
Kiki talks to lead vocalist Jessica Douek and guitarist Larry Sobieraj about their journeys coming to terms with long-term illness and adapting their musical careers to accommodate their needs. From their experiences both as fans and musicians, MALLAVORA advocate for creating accessible spaces for people with disabilities at concerts as well as making the industry more considerate and preserving the health of musicians.
Recorded on February 8th, 2024 / Episode hosted by Kiki / Episode edited by Suzana.
Tackling difficult topics
Breaking from traditional album releases, BURN DOWN EDEN split their work into two strategic EPs before combining them into a full album “Dismal Epiphany” – a move inspired by hip-hop’s successful single-release model.
The episode dives deep into the band’s creative process, from their controversial music videos to their unique blend of serious messaging and humor. Guitarists and songwriters William and Tom candidly discuss navigating today’s oversaturated music market, where constant promotion is key to survival for emerging bands
Beyond marketing strategy, the conversation explores the album’s powerful themes about humanity and society, featuring tracks like “Suckbox”, “Bloodspaired Symphony” and “Burn Down Eden.” The band’s authentic approach to storytelling, even when dealing with dark themes, showcases their commitment to artistic integrity.
Recorded on February 3th / Hosted and edited by Suzana.
Duel
Step into the intense world of JINJER‘s latest album “Duél”, where progressive metal meets social consciousness. Fronted by the phenomenal Tatiana Shmayluk, the band delivers a masterclass in vocal versatility, seamlessly blending harsh growls with soaring clean vocals.
Standout tracks like “Someone’s Daughter” and “Green Serpent” showcase not just technical prowess, but also tackle pressing issues of women’s rights and social justice. The album’s dark, brutal undertones serve as a powerful reflection of the ongoing conflict in the band’s homeland of Ukraine.
Episode edited by Pia.
Heavy trip
Ever wondered what happens when you combine a meat-grinding machine, a Finnish metal band, and a prison break? The wildly entertaining films Heavy Trip and Heavier Trip follow an underdog metal band’s hilarious journey from small-town obscurity to potential stardom.
In the first film, made with a modest budget of 3 million euros, our protagonists discover their unique sound through a meat-grinder and embark on an epic quest to crash a Norwegian music festival. The sequel raises the stakes as the band escapes prison (with unintended help from a “Prison Advisor” , no less!) to perform at the prestigious Wacken festival, crossing paths with Japanese sensation BABYMETAL along the way.
These films brilliantly satirize the music industry while celebrating the unbreakable spirit of friendship and artistic integrity. From tongue-twisting genre descriptions to quirky Norwegian prison buffets, both movies blend absurd humor with genuine heart.
Want to experience a metal comedy that perfectly balances headbanging and belly laughs? Tune in to discover why these Finnish gems are striking all the right chords in the world of music-themed cinema.
Recorded on January 9th / Co-hosts Pia and Suzana / Episode edited by Suzana.
Figuring it out
It’s Martha’s and Suzana’s anniversary at the podcast! So the two recap their year and talk about their future plans.
Episode edited by Suzana and Pia.
Latin American Metal
Dive into a fascinating exploration of Latin America’s thriving metal landscape as podcast hosts Suzana and Kiki bridge countries to bring you insider perspectives from Brazil and Ecuador. Discover how Brazilian band Miasthenia masterfully weaves traditional sounds with black metal, creating a unique sonic tapestry in their album “Spiritus Rupestris.”
The episode reveals how Brazil’s passionate fanbase and social media engagement are becoming secret weapons for international bands looking to boost their streaming numbers, while Ecuador’s growing scene attracts major acts like Napalm Death and In Flames.
The hosts also candidly discuss the challenges of touring Latin America, from vast distances between venues to infrastructure limitations, painting a realistic picture of the region’s evolving metal landscape.
Ready to explore the unexpected ways traditional Latin American rhythms are transforming modern metal? Listen to this episode for an eye-opening journey through South America’s dynamic metal scene.
Recorded on January 9th, 2024 / Co-hosts Kiki and Suzana / Episode edited by Pia.
Reflecting 2024
From leaving a beloved band to embracing new musical identities, this heartfelt episode dives deep into the transformative musical journeys of 2024. Martha’s emotional decision to leave Horizis and birth her new project Neurotidal takes center stage, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic authenticity and personal growth.
The hosts share their evolving music tastes, from discovering emerging bands like Yours Truly and Gore to celebrating standout releases from Phantoma and “The Black” by Imminence. Notable moments include unforgettable encounters with Blind Channel and Marty Friedman, reminding listeners that even legends are wonderfully human.
Join us for this intimate look back at a year filled with musical discoveries, personal growth, and the courage to embrace change in the metal scene.
Recorded on December 19th, 2024 / Co-hosts Pia, Kiki, Martha and Suzana / Episode edited by Pia.
Linkin Park 2
From the strategically crafted track list to nostalgic callbacks from previous eras, discover how Linkin Park has orchestrated a seamless transition that both satisfies long-time fans and welcomes new listeners. We dive into standout tracks like “Emptiness Machine” and “Casualty,” and discuss the band’s innovative marketing approach, including their recent live-streamed concert from Brazil.
Listen now to explore how Linkin Park is redefining their legacy while staying true to their roots.
Recorded on December 5th, 2024 / Co-hosts Pia and Suzana / Episode edited by Pia.
Accountability
In this episode of the Bleeding Metal podcast, hosts Kiki, Martha, and Suzana discuss the recent collapse of a famous Metalcore band due to the controversial past and behavior of its lead singer. They explore the broader implications of giving second chances to individuals with criminal histories, especially in public and influential roles.
The conversation extends to cancel culture, the separation of art from the artist, and how these issues reflect societal values, particularly in relation to women’s safety. The episode also touches upon recent alarming news about women’s rights from Russia and Japan, underscoring a global struggle for gender equality.
Recorded on November 21st, 2024 / Co-hosts Pia, Kiki, Martha and Suzana/ Episode edited by Kiki.
Movies
For this epidsode, Pia and Suzana discuss two metal related movies: Metalhead and Metal Lords. The movies are very different, but they both touch us, even if it’s in very different ways.
Discover how these films challenge stereotypes about metal music while celebrating its capacity to build community, process trauma, and empower those who feel like outsiders. Whether it’s through raw grief or awkward adolescence, both stories remind us that sometimes the loudest music can heal the deepest wounds.
02:11 Metalhead
14:52 Metal Lords
song recommended:
Recorded on November 14th, 2024.
Bleeding Metal was created and is produced by and and is now co-hosted by and .
Episode edited by Pia.
The future of Nightwish
In this episode of the Bleeding Metal Podcast, Pia, Suzana, and our guest Simon McMurdo delve into the recent announcement by symphonic metal giants Nightwish about their touring hiatus. With the band’s latest album, Yesterwynde, marking the conclusion of a thematic trilogy, the three speculate on whether this pause might signal the end of Nightwish’s journey or simply a significant transitional phase. They explore the challenges faced by vocalist Floor Jansen during this album cycle, empathizing with her apparent longing to perform live and discussing how her expanding solo career may be influencing fans’ anxieties about the band’s future direction.
They share contrasting views on Yesterwynde, with Pia praising it as Floor’s most compelling work with Nightwish, while Simon feels it lacks the innovation of the band’s earlier releases. They agree on the album’s cohesive quality, noting its lyrical themes of human achievement, timelessness, and reflections on loss.
The discussion also touches on the possibility of former members returning, the band’s evolving lineup, and the potential for a grand celebration in 2026 to mark Nightwish’s 30th anniversary. Throughout the conversation reflects the bittersweet emotions surrounding the band’s current hiatus and the uncertainties that lie ahead for Nightwish and their fanbase.
Recorded: October 17th, 2024.
Aired:
Hosted by:
Edited by: Pia
Defocus
In this enriching episode of the Bleeding Metal podcast, co-hosts Kiki and Suzana engage in a deep conversation with Simon from the modern metalcore band DEFOCUS. The discussion navigates the intricate interplay between politics and music, emphasizing the role of art in spreading human rights messages and fostering political awareness.
Simon shares his personal journey towards political consciousness and his views on current sociopolitical issues. Additionally, they explore the dangerous polarization of topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for open dialogue and understanding to combat extremism.
01:30 Meet Simon and DEFOCUS
05:17 The Importance of Political Awareness
07:25 Simon’s Personal Relationship with Politics
10:52 Global Conflicts and Media Coverage
16:37 The Role of Privilege in Advocacy
18:10 The Power of Platforms
20:03 Personal Causes
27:17 The Role of Music in Politics
33:32 Advice for Bands
35:29 Defocus Tour and New Music
Recorded on October 9th, 2024.
Bleeding Metal was created and is hosted and produced by and with the support of co-hosts and .
Episode edited by Kiki.
Consuming music
This episode explores the challenges artists face in earning a fair income in the streaming era. Kiki. Pia and Suzana discuss their experiences with various music platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music, weighing factors like convenience, cost, and artist compensation. Alternative ways to support artists are explored, such as buying digital albums, donating directly, and using platforms like Patreon.
The conversation also touches on the decline of physical music formats and record store culture, with the speakers reminiscing about their experiences buying CDs and hanging out at record stores in their youth. The rise of digital music and piracy is cited as a factor in this cultural shift.
Suzana shares her experience discovering heavier music genres as a student, frequenting a local record store and finding creative ways to access and share music when buying individual CDs was not feasible. This highlights the struggles bands face in earning a living solely from their music.
The broader issue of compensating artists, athletes, and content creators is discussed, questioning where the line should be drawn in providing financial support for those who contribute to entertainment and culture but may not earn a living from their passion alone. The concept of a basic income is proposed as a potential solution.
Overall, the episode delves into the complex dynamics of valuing art, creativity, and the contributions of artists and athletes in society, while acknowledging the systemic challenges and the need to re-examine how different types of labor and contributions are measured and compensated.
00:03:14 – Paying Artists More, Donating, and the Challenges of Switching Music Platforms
00:09:24 – Transitioning from Physical to Digital Music Storage
00:17:20 – Nostalgia for the Local Music Scene
00:26:49 – The Value of Art and Digital Content Creation
00:43:29 – Supporting Small Bands Beyond Streaming
00:52:35 – Supporting Artists Through Social Media Engagement
Recorded on October 10th, 2024.
Episode edited by Pia
Linkin Park 1
Pia and Suzana discuss the highly anticipated Linkin Park reunion with new vocalist Emily Armstrong and drummer Colin Britton. While Chester Bennington can never be replaced, the hosts express cautious optimism about the band’s new artistic direction. Suzana shares her positive impression of the new single “The Emptiness Machine” and Emily’s strong stage presence. Overall, the hosts seem hopeful about Linkin Park’s future while respecting Chester Bennington’s legacy as the former frontman.
00:08:01 – Touring Brazil: Challenges and Opportunities for Bands
00:10:54 – Linkin Park’s Thoughtful Transition with New Female Vocalist
00:17:15 – Nervous Start, Confident Presence
00:22:28 – Exploring the Ambiguity Around a Celebrity’s Scientology Ties
00:31:03 – Dealing with Unfair Criticism as a Woman in the Spotlight
00:37:24 – Embracing Change in Linkin Park’s Reunion
Recorded on September 10th, 2024.
Episode edited by Pia.
Tuska 2
Join us for part two of the recap of our our unforgettable experiences at Tuska Festival in Helsinki! Again, we delve into the behind-the-scenes of making the TUSKA FORÜM by Bleeding Metal, including interviews with Jennifer Haben from BEYOND THE BLACK and the members of BURY TOMORROW.
We also hope you enjoy our weird tangents, hot takes, and rants. and join the conversation in the comments of .
00:52 Finnish Metal Bands and Performances
01:52 Highlights from the Kvlt Stage
04:57 Sonata Arctica and Language Barriers
06:38 Bring Me The Horizon and Other Performances
11:24 Sunday at Tuska: Beyond the Black and Warmen
15:36 Forum Sessions and Interviews
23:57 Bury Tomorrow and Parkway Drive
35:47 Final rants
Episode recorded on July 18th, 2024.
Show notes:
- Check out the mentioned interview with
Episode edited by Kiki.
Tuska 1
Tuska Festival and the TUSKA FORÜM by Bleeding Metal were a blast! In this first episode of two, Kiki, Martha, and Suzana retell our experiences during the first two days of the festival in Helsinki.
We delve into our memories of the interviews and panels conducted during the festival, covering topics from media interactions with bands to the blend of music and gaming, touring life and family commitments, as well as a ‘Modern Metal’ discussion.
The episode also includes a segment by guest interviewer Cristina from the Metal Pizza Talk Show, who conducted an engaging Finnish-language session with the band STAM1NA. We also get to express our gratitude towards those who supported the event’s success.
Episode recorded on July 18th, 2024.
00:55 Tuska Festival Recap
06:11 Tuska Day 1: Highlights and Challenges
13:28 Infected Rain Interview and Insights
19:34 Reflections on Festival Performances
26:38 Tuska Day 2: Ankor’s Energetic Performance
29:50 Gaming and Music Collaboration
34:56 Touring Life Insights
41:51 Modern Metal and New Bands
47:56 Stamina Interview Highlights
53:28 Conclusion and Cliffhanger
Episode edited by Kiki.
Metalheads against racism
Racism is a topic we talk about a lot on this podcast – and it has a lot in common with misogyny. We discuss this while talking about the BABYMETAL collaboration with ELECTRIC CALLBOY. After that, we have an experiment: Since we asked ourselves how men see feminism and misogyny, we tried to get as close as possible by interviewing our only white team member Pia about racism. Turns out: Yes, there are struggles, but also a lot you can do and be vocal about as an unconcerned person.
Before we dive into the topic, Suzana updates us on the recent flood in Brazil.
02:16 flood in Brazil
08:42 Babymetal and Electric Callboy
18:33 racism
Recorded on May 22nd, 2024.
Bonus episode edited by Pia.
Is the metal community united?
We love to think that the international metalheads all over the world would stick together in a united community – but is that reality?
Martha, Pia, and Suzana come together to discuss the topic in an episode that becomes a love letter to the scene.
Recorded on April 3rd, 2024.
Bonus episode edited by Pia.
Trailblaze game
Pia is back! After a short update and her thoughts about Bimbocore, she, Martha, and Suzana discuss the Trailblaze board game (crowdfunding campaign is running until April 20th). The three also talk about their favorite releases of the year so far.
We discuss:
00:40 Pia’s update
03:47 Bimbocore discussion round 2
15:24 Trailblaze board game
23:38 2024 releases
Bonus episode edited by Pia. Recorded on April 3rd, 2024.
Blind Channel
How open and vulnerable do artists have to be nowadays? How do musicians like the members of BLIND CHANNEL take care of their Mental Health?
Joel and Niko, the vocalists of the self-proclaimed “Backstreet Boys of Metal”, join Kiki and Suzana on an interesting talk about the origin story of BLIND CHANNEL with their “Violent Pop” branding, making music as their form of therapy, and how they’re making their dreams of becoming the biggest Finnish Metal band in the world come true.
Recorded on February 2nd, 2024 / Co-host Kiki and Suzana/ Episode edited by Kiki.
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