

heartdea13r w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda
V13 Media Group
For 20+ years, Christopher Gonda has been building platforms that celebrate music, culture & storytelling. Through V13 Media Group, he aims to amplify unique voices, bridging the underground and the iconic. The heartdea13r Podcast is his way of gathering and sharing knowledge from some of the brightest minds and most passionate voices across the entertainment industry. It’s a space for conversations about artistry, mental health, entrepreneurship, and everything that fuels a life driven by creativity, passion, and balance—love & logic.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 2, 2026 • 1h 28min
Brian Anthony Joyce on Major League, DIY Hustle, Community & Creative Growth // # 065
heartdea13r Podcast w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda // Episode 65 // Brian Anthony Joyce (Guitarist & Founder, Major League)SummaryBrian Anthony Joyce, guitarist and founding member of Major League, shares the inspiring story of how a spontaneous conversation led to a band reunion, emphasizing authenticity, community, and the importance of going with the flow in life and music. Discover insights on overcoming challenges, embracing serendipity, and fostering genuine connections in the industry. Brian also shares insights on personal growth, communication, and resilience. The discussion highlights the power of transparency, cultural respect, and staying true to oneself amidst challenges.Key TopicsSpontaneous conversations leading to opportunitiesThe role of authenticity and community in musicOvercoming challenges and embracing serendipityThe importance of open communication and transparencyLessons learned from international travel and cultural respectThe role of vulnerability and authenticity in personal growthThe significance of resilience and perseverance in music and life

Mar 30, 2026 • 53min
Sam Walker on Clay Street Unit, Alabama, Brotherhood & Finding Connection Through Music // #064
heartdea13r Podcast w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda // Episode 64 // Sam Walker (singer, guitarist & ringleader, Clay Street Unit)SummaryIn this engaging interview, musician Sam Walker shares his journey from Alabama to Denver, the transformative power of travel and music, and the importance of authenticity, gratitude, and taking risks in life and art. Discover insights on creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of passion.Key TopicsThe influence of travel and cultural experiences on creativityThe importance of authenticity and honesty in artThe role of risk-taking and perseverance in career success

Mar 26, 2026 • 1h 10min
Andrew Morse on The Tasty Kings, Artistic Freedom, Collaboration, Creativity & Songwriting // #063
heartdea13r Podcast w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda // Episode 63 // Andrew Morse (Founder of The Tasty Kings, Songwriter, Label Owner)SummaryIn this engaging interview, seasoned musician Andrew Morse shares his journey from childhood musical discovery to a diverse career spanning genres, collaborations, and entrepreneurship. Discover insights on creativity, industry wisdom, and the importance of love and authenticity in art.Key TopicsLongevity in a music careerBalancing trading and artistryThe importance of collaboration and respect in musicCreative process and songwriting insights

Mar 12, 2026 • 1h 22min
Nicole Laurenne on The Darts, US Justice System, Rebellion, Sobriety & Self-Discovery // #062
heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 62 // Nicole Laurenne (Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Judge, Founder of The Darts)SummaryIn this conversation, Nicole Laurenne shares her unique journey from a scientifically inclined family in Chicago to becoming a punk rock musician in Seattle. She discusses the cultural influences that shaped her musical identity, the struggle between her passion for music and her parents' expectations, and her experiences as a judge in the legal system. Nicole reflects on the importance of empathy, the quest for authenticity, and the impact of COVID-19 on her self-discovery and musical freedom.Nicole shares her journey of self-discovery, embracing change, and the challenges of balancing multiple roles as a musician, judge, and parent. She discusses the importance of gratitude and kindness in the music industry, the realities of touring, and the lessons learned from her unique experiences. Nicole emphasizes the significance of treating music as a business and the value of planning and adaptability in achieving success. Her insights into raising creative children and transitioning to a full-time music career provide valuable advice for aspiring artists.TakeawaysNicole's upbringing in a scientifically focused family shaped her unique perspective on music.Cultural expectations can create a tension between personal passion and familial obligations.The journey to self-discovery often involves breaking free from societal and parental expectations.Empathy plays a crucial role in both the legal system and the music world.COVID-19 provided a pivotal moment for Nicole to reflect on her life and choices.Finding one's voice in music can be a gradual and evolving process.The intersection of law and music can lead to a rich and complex life experience.Authenticity in art often requires shedding external pressures and expectations.Nicole's experiences highlight the importance of mental health and self-care in creative fields.The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and can lead to unexpected paths. Nicole's journey of self-discovery began with making her own choices.Embracing change is essential for personal growth and happiness.Finding a place that resonates with you can lead to fulfillment.Balancing multiple roles requires careful planning and time management.Gratitude and kindness are crucial in the music industry.Treating music as a business can lead to greater success.Networking and collaboration are key to expanding opportunities.Raising children with a focus on passion and hard work fosters creativity.Transitioning to a full-time music career can be smooth with proper planning.The music industry is challenging, but perseverance pays off.

Mar 9, 2026 • 1h 1min
Tedy on Scandalous, Loneliness, Zombies, Radical Honesty & Finding Himself Through Music // #061
heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 61 // Tedy (Musician, Artist, YouTuber)SummaryTedy shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of authenticity in his music. He reflects on the impact of recognition, the challenges of navigating identity and loneliness, and the cultural roots that shape his resilience. Ted emphasizes the significance of being true to oneself and the role of music in connecting with others. He also discusses his experiences growing up in Miami and finding a sense of home in Canada, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. He encourages viewers/listeners to pursue their passions fearlessly and to find strength in their unique identities.TakeawaysRecognition in music is about being seen and valued.Authenticity is crucial for self-expression and connection.Loneliness can be a driving force for creativity.Cultural roots influence resilience and work ethic.Self-discovery is an ongoing journey.Music serves as a medium to express emotions and connect with others.Living in Miami taught adaptability and resilience.Finding home is about acceptance and belonging.Pushing boundaries leads to personal growth.Grief and emotional expression are culturally significant.Authenticity is crucial in both personal life and artistic endeavours.Self-discovery is a continuous journey for artists.Every perceived weakness can be transformed into a strength.

Mar 7, 2026 • 1h 20min
Afton Wolfe on Ophiuchus, Astrology, Music as Empathy, Philosophy & Radical Creation // #060
heartdea13r Podcast // Episode 60 // Afton Wolfe (Musician, Philosopher, Trademark Attorney)SummaryAfton Wolfe and chr1stoph3r g0nda explore themes of nostalgia, cultural moments, the role of music in society, personal growth through philosophy, and the significance of astrology in relation to creativity. They discuss the emotional impact of baseball memories, the importance of empathy in communication, and the transformative power of music. The conversation also delves into Wolfe's latest album and its connection to astrological themes, particularly the number 13 and the constellations. Further topics explore forgiveness, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of life. Plus, the impact of upbringing on creativity, the role of philosophy and law in Wolfe's journey, and how the pandemic catalyzed a return to music. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, reinvention, and the lessons learned from life's challenges.TakeawaysNostalgia plays a significant role in shaping our identities.Cultural moments can unite people and create shared experiences.Empathy is essential for understanding differing perspectives.Music has a profound impact on society and individual well-being.Philosophy encourages personal growth and open-mindedness.Astrology can provide insights into creativity and personal journeys.The number 13 symbolizes rebirth and new cycles.Art and music can be a form of resistance against oppression.Taking care of the vulnerable is crucial for societal progress.The future may hold a shift towards more creative and fulfilling lives. You have to work 70 hours a week to be a success.Attention is the most powerful force in the universe.Forgiveness is the ultimate display of empathy.Reinvention is a vital part of artistic expression.

Mar 5, 2026 • 1h 10min
Jeremy Wagner on Brutal Honesty, Chef Curtis Duffy, Memoirs, Peter North & Making Life Count // #059
Jeremy Wagner, author, musician and filmmaker known for memoir and documentary work and founder of Dead Sky Publishing. He talks about brutal honesty in storytelling. He describes writing Curtis Duffy’s memoir, making a candid documentary about Peter North, and the creative drive behind his music, publishing, and upcoming novel. Short, candid, and provocative conversations about truth and making life count.

Mar 2, 2026 • 55min
Brian McShea on Good Terms, Teamwork, Vulnerability, Resilience & Rebuilding After Burnout // #058
Brian McShea, lead vocalist and guitarist of Good Terms, shares tales from touring, songwriting inspired by personal relationships, and the grind of wearing many hats in music. He talks about building a supportive team, recovering from burnout and a life-changing house fire, quitting cannabis for his voice, and daily habits that keep creativity and resilience alive.

Feb 26, 2026 • 1h 16min
Garnet Willis on Generative Chaos, Instrument Design, Creative Flow & the Science of Sound // #057
Garnet Willis, artist, designer and instrument builder known for experimental electroacoustic work. He discusses hands-on tinkering, systems thinking, and seeking surprises in materials. He talks about generative chaos, unpredictable instrument design like Clusterflex, and balancing planning with openness. Conversations touch on collaboration, flow states, and learning through playful failure.

Feb 23, 2026 • 1h 3min
Ryan Roxie on Alice Cooper, His 3 Ps, Enjoying the Ride & Rock Star Longevity // #056
Ryan Roxie, solo artist and longtime Alice Cooper guitarist, shares stories from touring, songwriting and his System 12 'three Ps' mantra (practice, persistence, patience). He talks about band cohesion, the new Cooper/Criss Angel show, balancing family with life on the road, staying grounded for rock longevity, and why enjoying the ride matters.


