Austin-based musician and podcaster Johnny Goudie is marking a significant milestone in his podcasting journey, celebrating the 1,500th episode of his long-running show, “How Did I Get Here?” This live event will take place on Tuesday, May 20, at the Continental Club Gallery from 8:30 to 10 p.m.
The event is geared towards a 21+ audience, with a $10 cover charge and seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Goudie’s guests for this special occasion include notable artists Kelly Willis, Ray Prim, and Suzanna Choffel. Together, they will engage in a panel-style discussion focusing on creativity and the ever-evolving music scene in Austin.
Since its inception in 2011, Goudie launched “How Did I Get Here?” from his home studio, originally inspired by the lack of podcasts featuring musicians interviewing fellow musicians. Goudie saw a gap in the market as he noticed comedians were dominating the interview space but musicians weren’t sharing their stories in a similar format.
Having a rich background in the music scene, Goudie believed he could fill that space. His love for the conversational interviews from shows he grew up watching, such as Dick Cavett, Mike Douglas, and Johnny Carson, further fueled his decision. With his home studio, he realized he had the tools to produce content that could highlight the diverse talent within Austin’s vibrant music community.
Goudie’s commitment to storytelling through music and conversation has turned the podcast into a staple not only within Austin’s creative community but also beyond its borders. In 2024, the “How Did I Get Here?” podcast was recognized as the No. 1 Austin-produced podcast by the Austin Chronicle, a testament to its impact.
Throughout the years, Goudie has interviewed over a thousand artists ranging from STYX and Foghat to local talents like Black Pumas and Asleep at the Wheel. These candid conversations often resonate with listeners, as they delve into shared experiences of struggle and success in the music industry.
When asked if being a musician himself has influenced his interview style, Goudie expressed that his experience allows for a deeper connection with his guests. He fosters a shared understanding of the challenges musicians face, making the conversations more relatable.
The evolution of Austin’s music scene is something Goudie has witnessed firsthand. Despite discussions among some that the scene is not what it used to be, Goudie maintains a positive outlook on the changes occurring. He believes that the growth of infrastructure and support systems for musicians, such as SIMS and HAAM, has contributed significantly to the culture, giving artists resources that many other American cities do not offer.
What keeps Goudie motivated through these numerous episodes is his engagement with the music community. As he puts it, staying active and excited about music keeps bitterness and resentment at bay. However, even with this enthusiastic approach, he admits he has never actually thought about reaching the milestone of 1,500 episodes. His focus has always been on the next interview rather than the overall count.
Celebrating this notable achievement with a live taping, Goudie promises an engaging experience for attendees. Although he hasn’t performed live since the pandemic, he recalls the dynamic atmosphere of his previous events. Typically featuring a panel setup, the live show format includes several guests, allowing for spontaneous and lively discussions.
As Goudie describes, once the guests join him on stage, they share the spotlight, often resulting in fun and engaging conversations that entertain both the audience and the performers. With a relaxed environment, laughter, and drinks, previous episodes have turned into gatherings that encapsulate the spirit of the Austin music scene.
In a city known for its musical talent and creative energy, Johnny Goudie’s podcast serves not just as an archive of artists’ journeys but as a living testament to the vibrant culture that Austin continues to foster. Through his dedication and passion, Goudie ensures that the stories within this community remain prevalent and celebrated, one episode at a time.
image source from：https://tribeza.com/arts/music/how-did-i-get-here-podcast-austin-live-show/
