Dear Luke + Ben

By: Ben Rennie + Luke Shanahan
  • Summary

  • In this original series, Humanist and Greens Leader Bob Brown, Silverchair’s Ben Gillies, Tim Ross, Once Upon a Time in LA's Damon Herriman, the iconic Australian Myf Warhurst, and Presidential Photographer Ben Baker join Writer and Founder of Reny®, Ben Rennie and Filmmaker & Director Luke Shanahan for a drink and an improvised chat on creativity, the arts, and change-making. What follows is a conversation that will make you laugh, squirm, and feel oddly inspired. Luke and Ben aim to feed the creative mind or help you rediscover the one you may have lost. Welcome to "Dear Luke & Ben"
    Ben Rennie + Luke Shanahan
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Episodes
  • Aaron Curnow: 25 Years of Spunk & Rock Music!
    Jun 17 2024

    Summary


    Aaron Curnow, the founder of Spunk Records, discusses his career in the music industry and the relationships he has built with artists. He reflects on the success of the label and the challenges he faced, including the impact of COVID-19. Curnow also talks about the importance of being connected to the music and the artists he works with. He discuss the changing landscape of the music industry, particularly in relation to the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify. They talk about the challenges faced by up-and-coming bands and the shift in focus from live performances to online streaming. They also touch on the role of record labels and the importance of creativity in the industry. Aaron shares his top three live music experiences and reflects on the nostalgia of mixtapes and vinyl records. They conclude by discussing the future of Spunk Records.


    Takeaways


    Building relationships with artists is crucial in the music industry.

    Being connected to the music and having a passion for it is essential for success.

    The challenges of running a record label include managing multiple artists and adapting to industry changes.

    COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the music industry, particularly in terms of international releases and live performances. The music industry has undergone significant changes with the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify, which have impacted the way artists promote and monetize their music.

    Up-and-coming bands face challenges in getting their music heard and building a fanbase, as traditional avenues like live performances and record labels have become less accessible.

    Creativity remains a crucial aspect of the music industry, and artists need to find innovative ways to stand out and connect with audiences.

    The nostalgia of mixtapes and vinyl records highlights the importance of physical media and the personal touch it brings to music consumption.

    Spunk Records plans to take a break from releasing new music but will continue to support artists through their existing catalog and explore new opportunities in the industry.

    The podcast will continue, with a focus on recording episodes at a pace that allows for quality content without overwhelming the hosts' other commitments.



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    1 hr
  • Blakey Johnston Part 2: The World Record Holder
    Apr 16 2023

    Get ready to dive into an exciting and inspiring part 2 with Blakey Johnston, the world record holder for continuously surfing for 40.07 hours, riding 707 waves. Not only is Blakey, a skilled surfer, but he's also a passionate advocate for mental health, having raised $400,000 for Youth Mental Health and the Chumpy Pullin Foundation.

    In this episode, we get an exclusive glimpse into Blakey's journey towards breaking the world record and learn about his physical and mental challenges during the attempt. But that's not all, as Blakey and Lauren have a surprise in store for Ben, which you won't want to miss! Just keep listening to find out what it is - but we'll give you a clue; it might get a little chilly.

    So join us as we chat with Blakey about his record-breaking feat, his passion for mental health awareness, and the surprise that awaits. Get ready to be inspired, motivated and entertained in this inspiring episode.

    Wondering what could have gone wrong in 40 hours? Here is a list:

    1. Hypothermia: The body's core temperature drops due to prolonged exposure to cold water, which can lead to hypothermia. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, and loss of coordination, and if not treated promptly, it can be life-threatening.

    2. Dehydration: Surfing for extended periods can cause dehydration due to sweating and exposure to the sun and wind. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, kidney damage.

    3. Physical exhaustion: Surfing for a prolonged period can cause physical exhaustion, leading to muscle fatigue, cramps, and injuries.

    4. Mental fatigue: Mental fatigue can set in, leading to decreased concentration, slower reaction times, and potentially dangerous decision-making.

    5. Injuries: The risk of injury is always present when surfing, especially in cold water where muscle flexibility is reduced. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe fractures and dislocations.

    6. Marine life: Cold water is often home to various marine life, such as sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays, which can pose a risk to surfers.Saltwater exposure: Prolonged exposure to saltwater can cause skin irritation, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

    7. Fatigue-related accidents: Fatigue-related accidents can occur with decreased reaction times and judgment, including collisions with other surfers or the surfboard itself.

    8. Ocean currents: Surfing for an extended period can lead to increased exposure to ocean currents that can pull surfers away from shore and into dangerous waters.


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    52 mins
  • Blakey Johnston Part 1: Eight Days Prior to His World Record
    Mar 14 2023
    Blakey Johsnton is about to surf for 40 hours. This episode captures Blakes's mindset just eight days from embarking on his world record attempt, which has already raised an incredible $150,000 for Youth Mental Health as we air on this episode of Dear Luke and Ben (without Luke). This is a testament to his passion and dedication to Mental health, and Blakey has just begun. In this episode, we delve into the incredible challenge that Blakey is about to undertake: surfing for 40 hours straight in salt water. We discuss the risks involved in this record-breaking attempt and how Blakey prepares himself physically and mentally for this gruelling challenge. We also touch upon the absence of Luke Shanahan, who could not join us for this episode due to the shi*thouse Sydney train system. However, we know that Luke is with us in spirit and fully supports Blakey's mission to raise awareness for mental health and youth. We can inform you that Luke made it home after 8 hours of train rides through Sydney to nowhere. Throughout the episode, we explore the incredible determination and resilience of Blakey Johnston, who is attempting to break a world record and make a difference. We discuss the importance of mental health awareness and how we can all support this vital cause. Tune in to this episode to hear about the incredible challenge that Blakey Johnston is about to undertake and learn how you can make a difference in the world of mental health
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    44 mins

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