First Spin
First Spin
Podcast Description
Hey, I’m Hayden Thomas—musician, lifelong music fan, and the guy who still makes mixtapes for road trips.First Spin is my weekly interview show where I sit down with emerging artists who I genuinely believe are doing something special. You might not know their names yet, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to change that.This show isn’t about hype. It’s about real conversations—about the first gigs, the late-night doubts, the sound that finally clicks. It’s a space for new voices to tell their stories, and for all of us to listen a little closer.If you’re always on the hunt for the next song that’ll mean something to you—welcome. You’re in the right place.New artists. Real stories. Weekly drops. Let’s give ‘em their first spin.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show focuses on themes of artistry and vulnerability in music, with episodes exploring the creative processes of new artists, such as Eliza Harrison Smith, and the stories behind their songs, including discussions on their debut efforts and personal reflections on the music industry.
Hey, I’m Hayden Thomas—musician, lifelong music fan, and the guy who still makes mixtapes for road trips.
First Spin is my weekly interview show where I sit down with emerging artists who I genuinely believe are doing something special. You might not know their names yet, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to change that.
This show isn’t about hype. It’s about real conversations—about the first gigs, the late-night doubts, the sound that finally clicks. It’s a space for new voices to tell their stories, and for all of us to listen a little closer.
If you’re always on the hunt for the next song that’ll mean something to you—welcome. You’re in the right place.
New artists. Real stories. Weekly drops. Let’s give ‘em their first spin.
This week I sat down with Raegan Gordon—drummer, vocalist, and songwriter for Leisure Hour, a band that grew out of Muncie’s DIY basements and is now grinding through a coast-to-coast run.
We talked about growing up in a 50k college town, how that community shaped their ear, and what it took to turn a one-night fill-in into a permanent spot and a voice on “Ode to Muncie.” Raegan walked me through the Richmond breakdown that ate a week, the night they refused to play when a venue wouldn’t protect fans, and the small habits—journaling, space, honesty—that make 27 shows in 30 days possible.
Leisure Hour’s headed out with Arcadia Grey toward Fest. If you haven’t pressed play yet, start here.
This episode is about more than music—it’s about claiming where you’re from, protecting your people, and betting on yourself.
—Hayden
Songs (in order): “Validation,” “Ode to Muncie,” “If I Could Kill You I Would,” “Jenny” — all by Leisure Hour.
Reagan’s recs: Cinema Stair, Moose Creek Park, Pretty Bitter, Clipboards, Summerbrews, Later Gator, Juice Falls, Final Boss Fight, No Problemo.
Tour note: Leisure Hour is out with Arcadia Grey Aug 28–Sep 28. I’m planning on Long Beach, Sep 3—say hi if you’re there.
—Hayden
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Thanks for listening—see you next week.
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