Listen "Surprise Cast #130 Ken Sweeney (Radio Documentary Maker)"
Episode Synopsis
Who is one of the best radio documentarians in the world? Welcome to an exclusive episode featuring Ken Sweeney, a renowned radio documentary maker, and writer who shares his high-voltage energy and journey in creating the award-winning radio documentary about the Scottish indie band Trashcan Sinatras. Ken explains his unique approach to documenting the band's fascinating history.
This episode covers Ken's in-depth making of the documentary, from working with the Trashcan Sinatras’ band members to recording personal conversations and performances that add a rich, authentic layer to the documentary's narrative. He also shares touching anecdotes about the band’s resilience through bankruptcy, the joy of rediscovering their fanbase through modern technology, and insights into their timeless, emotionally impactful music from albums such as Cake, I've Seen Everything, A Happy Pocket and Weightlifting.
Join us for a passionate conversation that not only dives into Ken's connections with the bands he documents (R.E.M, The Go-Betweens) but also highlights the importance of bringing forward stories from the peripheral but deeply influential corners of music history. Expect an engaging discussion on creativity, the magic of radio documentary storytelling, and the adamant pursuit of truth in journalism and human connection.
Tune in to explore the blend of music and art and how these elements merge in Ken's remarkable storytelling, which is just as grand as a TCS tune. Turn up the volume and feel his endless search of finding the "human story". Pure Gold!
Follow Ken Sweeney:
https://linktr.ee/Kensweeney?ltsid=e51fe49a-8131-435b-ab6c-137f42441f9b
Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Youtube
Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify
This episode covers Ken's in-depth making of the documentary, from working with the Trashcan Sinatras’ band members to recording personal conversations and performances that add a rich, authentic layer to the documentary's narrative. He also shares touching anecdotes about the band’s resilience through bankruptcy, the joy of rediscovering their fanbase through modern technology, and insights into their timeless, emotionally impactful music from albums such as Cake, I've Seen Everything, A Happy Pocket and Weightlifting.
Join us for a passionate conversation that not only dives into Ken's connections with the bands he documents (R.E.M, The Go-Betweens) but also highlights the importance of bringing forward stories from the peripheral but deeply influential corners of music history. Expect an engaging discussion on creativity, the magic of radio documentary storytelling, and the adamant pursuit of truth in journalism and human connection.
Tune in to explore the blend of music and art and how these elements merge in Ken's remarkable storytelling, which is just as grand as a TCS tune. Turn up the volume and feel his endless search of finding the "human story". Pure Gold!
Follow Ken Sweeney:
https://linktr.ee/Kensweeney?ltsid=e51fe49a-8131-435b-ab6c-137f42441f9b
Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Youtube
Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify
More episodes of the podcast Surprise Cast
Surprise Cast #214 Massage
14/11/2025
Surprise Cast #213 Ultan Conlon
10/11/2025
Surprise Cast #212 The Goods
06/11/2025
Surprise Cast #211 Halou
03/11/2025
Surprise Cast #210 The Cords
30/10/2025
Surprise Cast #209 Maps (James Chapman)
27/10/2025
Surprise Cast #207 The Boo Radleys
20/10/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.