Activist, model, and writer Munroe Bergdorf sits down with Adam to talk about her spark: the cult classic queer comedy But I’m a Cheerleader. Hear Munroe’s personal story discovering the film, why it remains a game-changer for queer representation, and how its fearless humor and camp style shaped her path as a trailblazer.

• Origin Story: Munroe shares the story of renting But I’m a Cheerleader from Blockbuster as a teen and finding queer joy, self-acceptance, and unexpected inspiration from the now-iconic film.
• Queer Visibility in Film: Learn how the movie’s razor-sharp satire of conversion therapy, pastel aesthetic, and joyful queer storytelling offered both healing and laughter during hard times.
• Representation Matters: Adam and Munroe discuss why authentic, joyful queer stories—made by queer creators—matter, especially in a world where LGBTQIA+ voices are often silenced.
• Reflections on Activism: Munroe talks about the legacy of growing up queer during Section 28 in the UK, the importance of supportive community, and how media like But I’m a Cheerleader paved the way for her own work as an activist, author, and media leader.
• Cultural Impact: Explore the enduring influence of But I’m a Cheerleader—from its legendary cast (including RuPaul, Natasha Lyonne, and Clea DuVall) to its impact on generations of queer audiences and creatives.
• 
  

Munroe Bergdorf is a globally recognized writer, model, broadcaster, and LGBTQIA+ activist. She’s British Vogue’s contributing editor, an award-winning author, and the star of LOVE & RAGE: MUNROE BERGDORF, the brand-new documentary telling her own story and the fight for trans visibility. Her second book, Talk To Me, is out now.

Released in 1999 and directed by Jamie Babbit, But I’m a Cheerleader is a groundbreaking queer comedy that follows Megan (Natasha Lyonne) as she’s sent to a conversion therapy camp. Its pastel sets, absurdist humor, and focus on authentic queer joy have made it one of the most beloved LGBTQIA+ movies of all time.

• Perfect for fans of Munroe Bergdorf, queer cinema, pop culture buffs, and anyone looking for heartfelt conversations about identity and inspiration.
• Get real talk about coming out, forging pride through media, and how stories like But I’m a Cheerleader continue to spark hope and creativity.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready for a trip down music memory lane? On this episode, Adam hangs out with Katie and Jules from The Ting Tings to talk all about the album that shaped their sound: Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms.

What’s Inside

• First Dire Straits Memories: Katie and Jules share how Brothers in Arms became the soundtrack to their childhoods and teen years—think car rides, record store windows, and stealing albums from siblings.
• Why Brothers in Arms Still Hits: Find out why this album is still a go-to for The Ting Tings, and how Mark Knopfler’s songwriting and guitar playing continue to inspire their music today.
• Studio Magic & Innovation: The duo talks about the groundbreaking production on Brothers in Arms, from its crystal-clear sound to its record-breaking CD sales, and how it set the bar for studio albums.
• The Art of Songwriting: Adam, Katie, and Jules dive into why the storytelling and musicianship on this album make it timeless—and what today’s artists can learn from it.
• Favorite Tracks & Stories: Hear which songs from Brothers in Arms Katie and Jules keep coming back to, and how those tracks influenced their own new music.
• 
  

About The Ting Tings

The Ting Tings are a UK indie pop duo known for their massive hits like “That’s Not My Name” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” Their music is packed with catchy hooks, bold energy, and a love for mixing genres. Their latest record is out now and brings a fresh twist to the classic sounds that inspired them. They're new album Home is out now.

About Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms

Released in 1985, Brothers in Arms is one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring hits like “Money for Nothing,” “Walk of Life,” and the epic title track. The album blends rock, pop, and a little bit of everything else, earning multiple Grammy Awards and a legendary spot in music history.

Why Listen?

• Perfect for fans of The Ting Tings, Dire Straits, and anyone who loves hearing how classic albums inspire new music.
• Get behind-the-scenes stories about songwriting, band life, and what it takes to make a record that stands the test of time.
• Hear how Brothers in Arms keeps sparking creativity for artists today.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singer-songwriter Lauren Spencer Smith joins Adam to talk about her biggest musical inspiration: Adele’s breakthrough album, 21. Lauren shares how hearing “Rolling in the Deep” as a kid changed everything for her, why Adele’s powerhouse vocals and honest songwriting became her comfort zone and how 21 shaped her own journey as an artist.

Lauren opens up about singing Adele songs at every competition, learning every vocal nuance and how Adele’s ability to blend genres and emotions inspired her to find her own voice. Adam and Lauren also discuss the impact of 21’s massive hits—like “Someone Like You,” “Rumour Has It” and “Turning Tables”—and what makes the album a timeless classic for songwriters and fans alike.

About Lauren Spencer Smith:

Lauren is a chart-topping singer-songwriter known for her raw vocals and relatable lyrics. She first gained major attention as an American Idol finalist and has since built a global fanbase with her viral singles and debut album. Lauren's new album The Art Of Being A Mess is out now!

About Adele’s 21:

Released in 2011, Adele’s 21 is one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century, featuring hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” The album blends soul, pop, blues, and country influences, earning multiple Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. 21 is praised for its emotional depth, unforgettable melodies, and Adele’s stunning vocal performances.

In this episode:

• Lauren’s first memories of hearing Adele and buying her music
• Why 21 became Lauren’s comfort album and creative blueprint
• The influence of Adele’s vocals, songwriting, and genre-blending on Lauren’s own music
• How personal storytelling and emotional honesty make 21 a modern classic
• Favorite tracks from 21 and the stories behind them

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comedian and impressionist Matt Friend joins Adam to talk about the movie that sparked his comedy journey: Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. In this episode, Matt and Adam dive deep into the entire Austin Powers franchise, unpacking the iconic characters, endlessly quotable gags, and the unique comedic genius of Mike Myers.

Matt shares how watching Austin Powers as a four-year-old completely changed his life, inspiring him to start mimicking voices and setting him on a path to becoming one of the most exciting young comedians today. From his early days obsessing over DVDs and Blockbuster runs to his viral celebrity impressions and appearances on The Howard Stern Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Simpsons, and Family Guy, Matt reflects on how the Austin Powers films shaped his love of character-driven, physical, and absurdist comedy.

About Matt Friend:

Matt Friend is a comedian, actor, and impressionist with over two million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. He’s known for his spot-on celebrity impressions (over 250 in his repertoire!), viral comedy interviews, and performances at major events like the Netflix Is A Joke Festival and the White House Correspondents Dinner. Matt has voiced characters for The Simpsons and Family Guy.

About The Spy Who Shagged Me :

Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me is the second film in the Austin Powers franchise, released in 1999 and directed by Jay Roach. The film stars Mike Myers in multiple roles—Austin Powers, Dr. Evil, and Fat Bastard—and features Heather Graham, Michael York, Rob Lowe, and Seth Green. The story follows Dr. Evil as he travels back to the 1960s to steal Austin’s mojo, leading to outrageous adventures, time travel hijinks, and a parade of unforgettable characters. The Spy Who Shagged Me became a box office hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and introduced fan favorites like Mini-Me and Fat Bastard. Its mix of slapstick, innuendo, and pop culture parody cemented its status as a comedy classic.

In this episode:

• Matt’s origin story with Austin Powers and why The Spy Who Shagged Me stands out
• The influence of Mike Myers’ multi-character performances on Matt’s own comedy and impressions
• Favorite scenes, supporting characters, and the film’s hilarious attention to detail
• How the Austin Powers movies inspired Matt’s career, from childhood mimicry to viral stardom

Keywords:

Matt Friend, Austin Powers, The Spy Who Shagged Me, Mike Myers, comedy podcast, celebrity impressions, Adam Unze, The Spark Parade, viral comedian, Blockbuster nostalgia, Netflix Is A Joke Festival, The Simpsons, Family Guy, pop culture, comedy movies, 90s movies, cult classics, Mini-Me, Fat Bastard, Dr. Evil, Heather Graham, Michael York, Seth Green, Rob Lowe, Jay Roach, parody, slapstick, character comedy

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second and final part of Adam's recap of the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Spark Parade, host Adam Unze (@sparkparade) sits down with Kyle Gordon, the New York-based comedian, actor, musician, songwriter, and improviser who’s taken the internet by storm. With over 6 million followers and a billion views across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and more, Kyle’s unique characters and pitch-perfect musical parodies—like his viral hit “Planet of the Bass”—have made him a household name and landed him on Variety’s 2023 “New Power” List.

Kyle shares his comedic origin story, from watching A Mighty Wind with his family to how Christopher Guest’s films shaped his sense of humor and approach to improv. Adam and Kyle break down what makes Guest’s mockumentaries so special: the improvisational brilliance of the ensemble cast, the meticulous character work, and the decades-long commitment to the bit that brings these worlds to life. They also discuss the legacy of A Mighty Wind, its cult status, and why its hyper-specific comedy resonates so deeply with fans and performers alike.

And then Adam gives his first of two recaps of his picks from the Tribeca Film Festival!

Key topics in this episode:

• Kyle Gordon’s early memories of A Mighty Wind and discovering Christopher Guest’s filmography
• The influence of improvisation and ensemble trust in Guest’s movies
• Deep character development and how it fuels comedic spontaneity
• The legacy of A Mighty Wind and its place in comedy history
• Kyle’s journey as a viral comedian, from live comedy in NYC to international recognition, and his debut album “Kyle Gordon is Great”
• 
  

About Kyle Gordon:

Kyle is a multi-talented performer known for his innovative online comedy, musical parodies, and standout characters. His 2023 hit “Planet of the Bass” was named Song of the Summer by major outlets. He’s performed with the Jonas Brothers, appeared on The Simpsons, Comedy Central, Adult Swim, and Fortnite, and his debut album debuted in the Billboard Comedy Albums top 10.

About A Mighty Wind:

A Mighty Wind (2003) is Christopher Guest’s loving send-up of the folk music world, featuring an all-star ensemble cast improvising their way through a tribute concert reunion. The film’s razor-sharp satire and affection for its subject have earned it a devoted cult following.

Listen for:

• Behind-the-scenes stories about improv, character work, and the joys of hyper-specific comedy
• Insights into the creative process of one of today’s most exciting comedians
• A celebration of Christopher Guest’s enduring influence on comedy

Keywords:

Kyle Gordon, The Spark Parade, Adam Unze, A Mighty Wind, Christopher Guest, comedy podcast, improvisation, musical comedy, viral comedian, Planet of the Bass, comedy ensemble, character work, Billboard Comedy Albums, mockumentary, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, folk music, cult comedy, podcast interview

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singer-songwriter Julia Wolf joins Adam to talk about her love for Twilight — the blockbuster film that defined a generation.

In this episode, Julia opens up about how Twilight helped her through her teenage years, why she connected so deeply with Bella Swan, and how the intense emotions of first love, heartbreak, and identity shaped both the story and her own life.

We also explore the iconic performances by Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, the film’s distinctive visual style, and the cultural impact of Stephenie Meyer’s vampire romance saga.

Whether you were Team Edward, Team Jacob, or just obsessed with the Twilight soundtrack, this conversation dives deep into what made the series unforgettable — and how its legacy continues to inspire artists like Julia today.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What album shaped Tune-Yards’ Merrill Garbus as both an artist and a person? Ani DiFranco’s Not a Pretty Girl.

In this episode of The Spark Parade, Merrill joins host Adam Unze to reflect on the raw, political, and poetic power of DiFranco’s groundbreaking 1995 album.

They explore how the record helped her find her voice, challenged traditional ideas of femininity and artistry, and set the tone for Tune-Yards’ fiercely original sound.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Ani, Tune-Yards, or just looking for creative inspiration, you’ll find something to spark your imagination here.

Highlights include:

• The lasting influence of Not a Pretty Girl
• Ani DiFranco’s impact on feminist songwriting and DIY culture
• How Merrill found artistic freedom in Ani’s boldness
• The power of music to unlock identity and creative purpose

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.