Strung Out

Hosted by Martin McCormack

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Episodes

276

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to STRUNG OUT. The show is an eclectic mix of topics ranging from music, to art, to themes of the day to the supernatural to how to better this world we live in. If you like interesting conversation, along with some original music, we got your back. Martin McCormack resides in Chicago. He is known not only for his music, but for his writing and artwork. McCormack's entire catalogue of works can be viewed at www.MartinMcCormack.com. You can also see McCormack's involvement in the duo Switchback by visiting the website www.waygoodmusic.com.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

September 6, 20261 hr 7 min

Strung Out Episode 276: Compulsive creativity-the writings of Mark Guarino

Send us Fan Mail This episode of the podcast Strung Out, hosted by artist and musician Martin Laurence McCormack, features a conversation with Mark Guarino—a writer, journalist, and booking producer for ABC News. The discussion explores Guarino ’s career and perspectives on journalism, covering: Journalism and Storytelling: Mark discusses his background in writing and journalism, including his work at the Christian Science Monitor, the Washington Post, and the Daily Herald. He emphasizes the importance of "shoe-leather reporting," mentorship, and fact-based reporting in a changing media landscape. The Intersection of Art and Journalism: The two discuss their shared belief that creative processes—whether writing plays, books, or articles—are all interconnected forms of storytelling. Guarino shares insights into his book Country and Midwestern, which examines Chicago's significant, often overlooked history as a hub for country and folk music, and discusses the "generational hand-off" of musical traditions in the city. Media Literacy and Accountability: The conversation touches on the rise of "citizen journalism," the impact of social media on public perception and polarization, and the challenges of distinguishing between entertainment and factual news organizations. Guarino reflects on his firsthand experience covering the events in Kenosha, Wisconsin, in 2020, and the dangers of misinformation. The Creative Process: Both hosts reflect on the ephemeral nature of art and live performance, comparing it to the structured, physical act of creating a newspaper. The episode also highlights Guarino ’s upcoming book about his experience in Kenosha protests and McCormack’s mission to foster community through music. The session concludes with a transition into a future episode focused on the creative process this amazing, prolific writer. Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

August 23, 20261 hr 3 min

Strung Out Episode 275: AROUND THE CAMPFIRE WITH PASTOR DREW JACQUES

Send us Fan Mail Host Martin McCormack and Pastor Drew Jacques discuss the evolving role of the church and community in a turbulent world. Saint David's Presbyterian Church serves as a metaphor for society, with Drew emphasizing that while traditional institutions face decline, the core mission of the church should be to create inclusive, circular communities where power is shared among people. The conversation critiques the "prosperity gospel," arguing that success is not defined by material wealth, status, or influence, but by acts of service, compassion, and the ability to love and validate others. Drew describes his ministry as that of a "wilderness guide" who helps people navigate societal hardships and economic uncertainty, focusing on the fundamental principles of peace, hope, joy, and love. Reflecting on the 1960s and 70s, they note that popular music of that era frequently contained spiritual references and themes of unity, contrasting this with the current cultural climate that often lacks similar touchstones of hope. Saint David's, now referred to as "David's Place," has transformed into a hub for community connection, hosting initiatives like the "Dream Kitchen" to train neurodiverse youth, repair cafes, and screen-free events. They address the pervasive issue of narcissism, urging listeners to be cautious of figures who prioritize self-validation and ego-driven "megachurches" over genuine community connection and spiritual health. Reflecting on life and mortality, the discussion concludes with an emphasis on living in the "here and now," arguing that the ultimate success lies in touching the souls of others and maintaining deep, meaningful human connections. Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

August 9, 202658 min

Strung Out Episode 274: AROUND THE CAMPFIRE WITH PASTOR DREW JACQUES

Send us Fan Mail Podcast Overview Show: Strung Out Host: Martin Laurence McCormack ("Marty") Guest: Reverend Drew Jacques (from St. David's Church in Campbellsville, Ontario) Key Topics & Summary 1. Community Hub & Local Updates (00:00 – 02:30) Reverend Drew discusses how St. David’s has recently transitioned into a community hub, hosting local summer camps to revitalize the space and support the Milton Community Resource Center. 2. Geopolitics & U.S.–Canada Dynamics (02:30 – 08:30) Canadian Politics: Drew notes general Canadian approval for Prime Minister Mark Carney and praises former MP Charlie Angus for articulating popular sentiment. U.S. Political Influence: They discuss media reports on U.S. politicians attempting to restrict Canadian sales of American goods and criticize political posturing/hubris across the border. Global Partnerships: Drew highlights Canada’s move to diversify international ties—such as acquiring submarines from Germany and strengthening trade relations—signaling a shift toward greater independence from U.S. political instability. 3. Christian Nationalism & Cult Dynamics (08:30 – 25:30) The "Ghosts of the Civil War": Drew argues that lingering racial and political divisions in the U.S. fuel extreme political movements. Christian Nationalism & Cult Mentality: They critique how right-wing movements and televangelists have "bastardized" Christianity. Drew explains how cults function: a narcissistic leader uses fear and chaos to gain absolute trust, promising safety in exchange for control. Core Christian Values vs. Modern Politics: Drew contrasts Christian nationalism with true faith, emphasizing that genuine teachings (e.g., Matthew 25) focus on feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, and building inclusive, compassionate communities. 4. Musical Interlude: "Fear" (27:03 – 31:19) A musical segment featuring a song about navigating fear, uncertainty, and personal growth as both a "friend and a foe." 5. Forgiveness, Accountability, & Moving Forward (31:20 – 46:30) Handling Toxicity: The hosts debate how to respond to people caught up in destructive political or religious mindsets. Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation: Drew clarifies that forgiveness is about letting go of personal bitterness and chaos so you can move on—it does not require remaining in toxic relationships or condoning bad actions. Focusing on Community: Instead of arguing with hostile individuals, the solution is building resilient, supportive local communities that model positive values. 6. Revitalizing St. David's: "Church in a Circle" (46:30 – 58:41) Overcoming Institutional Struggles: Drew shares the difficulties St. David’s faced, including past leadership disputes, corruption, and financial strain. A New Model for Worship: To adapt, they moved services to the basement and introduced "Church in a Circle" —a communal, non-hierarchical gathering combining three key traditions: John 21 (informal fellowship and shared meals). Shabbat Dinner (gathering around a table to reflect and share). First Nations Listening Circle (passing a symbolic light source so everyone has a voice without interruption). Turning the Tide: This new approach revitalized their congregation, stabilized their finances, and provided a meaningful path forward away from rigid institutional norms. Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

July 19, 202651 min

Strung Out Episode 273: NOT IN VAIN-PAT GORMAN'S PASSION TO FIND THE LOST SOLDIERS.

Send us Fan Mail Heroes come in many shapes and sizes. And sometimes the heroic effort is for the most part unknown. That could be said of the soldiers who fought and died for this country, only to be buried without acknowledgment of their service, or in some cases, buried without knowledge of who they are. It also takes relatively unknown heroes to help find these soldiers from all American wars. One such "unknown" is being revealed here on Strung Out. Pat Gorman, originally from Dixon, Illinois began his journey of service when he repaired a strange grave ornament--that of a marked from the Grand Army of the Republic, (GAR) that was forerunner to today's American Legion or VFW groups. This one act brought him into the world of finding soldiers who were denied a proper veteran's tombstone. A lot of research, patience and travel was necessary in order for Gorman to help identify and properly honor the service of these soldiers. Some of these soldiers were immigrant Irish, who fought in World War I and II for the United States only to be sent to Ireland to be buried. One such amazing story Pat was involved in can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kZOS... Gorman explains his work, how he and a handful of others are involved in making sure our warrior dead are not forgotten. People can reach out to Pat through contacting Martin at MartyFineArt@gmail.com if they have particular family members who in need of having their grave located and given the proper soldier honor. Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

July 5, 202658 min

Strung Out Episode 272: HOW TO BUILD A HOUSE CONCERT with Molly Lenz. (part two)

Send us Fan Mail Molly Lenz is great at building. A carpenter of sorts in the sense that she is able to build community through her house concerts. These concerts are well known in the Chicago area and attract musicians from across the country. But you may ask, "what goes into making a successful house concert?" This is where Lenz comes in. Starting back in New Jersey, she created a concert series that brought talent into direct contact with "stalwarts" or avid music listeners. These are people who are not into live music for the alcohol, a big arena spectacle or hearing the latest hit, but people who are desiring of the deep "electric" connection that develops during a concert in which a musician is presenting music that is instantly and purely being absorbed. The result is something much more akin to a spiritual experience or the sort of catharsis that arises from meditation or yoga--it is a group energy cycle that takes place. As highfalutin' as that may sound, that is what people experienced on a regular basis prior to amplification. The mind's eye was the light show, the guitar and voice, all the amplification and the expectation was to listen intently and give back attention. The whole experience an intertwined, uplifting and energizing. Taking that into account, there is something very trusting in opening ones home to strangers. That we live in a time of lack of trust and fear only exacerbates that. However, Lenz points out that there are few risks involved in hosting a house concert. No one is in it to make a lot of money---in fact, "labor of love" is the term frequently used to describe both the host, audience and artist. But the point is that in turning away from commercial music events and focusing on one-on-one musical experiences, we return to a form of community and communication that is closer to our ancestor's way of perceiving our world and each other. The need for more of these opportunities is real and, in a world, where media, algorithms and AI are starting to infiltrate the mysterious and magic of music, more important than ever. https://www.mollyshouseconcerts.com/ Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

June 21, 202652 min

Strung Out Episode 271: HOW TO BUILD A HOUSE CONCERT with Molly Lenz. (part one)

Send us Fan Mail Molly Lenz is great at building. A carpenter of sorts in the sense that she is able to build community through her house concerts. These concerts are well known in the Chicago area and attract musicians from across the country. But you may ask, "what goes into making a successful house concert?" This is where Lenz comes in. Starting back in New Jersey, she created a concert series that brought talent into direct contact with "stalwarts" or avid music listeners. These are people who are not into live music for the alcohol, a big arena spectacle or hearing the latest hit, but people who are desiring of the deep "electric" connection that develops during a concert in which a musician is presenting music that is instantly and purely being absorbed. The result is something much more akin to a spiritual experience or the sort of catharsis that arises from meditation or yoga--it is a group energy cycle that takes place. As highfalutin' as that may sound, that is what people experienced on a regular basis prior to amplification. The mind's eye was the light show, the guitar and voice, all the amplification and the expectation was to listen intently and give back attention. The whole experience an intertwined, uplifting and energizing. Taking that into account, there is something very trusting in opening ones home to strangers. That we live in a time of lack of trust and fear only exacerbates that. However, Lenz points out that there are few risks involved in hosting a house concert. No one is in it to make a lot of money---in fact, "labor of love" is the term frequently used to describe both the host, audience and artist. But the point is that in turning away from commercial music events and focusing on one-on-one musical experiences, we return to a form of community and communication that is closer to our ancestor's way of perceiving our world and each other. The need for more of these opportunities is real and, in a world, where media, algorithms and AI are starting to infiltrate the mysterious and magic of music, more important than ever. Check out her website at https://www.mollyshouseconcerts.com/ Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

May 31, 20261 hr 28 min

Strung Out Episode 270: THE PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY-An Interview with Molly Lenz

Send us Fan Mail Molly Lenz grew up in Rogers Park, Chicago and from early on, her ambition was to be involved in music. That passion resulted in a career as a DJ for a station in New Jersey, where she met her husband, who had of all things, a record store. Molly was able to curate her own tunes there at the station, bringing listeners unheard of musicians who were not mainstream. The record store literally a gathering place of new artists and the occasional live performance. After her husband's passing, Molly channeled her grief by having a concert in her New Jersey home. The community that developed, along with the amazing shows made her understand that it was presenting concerts that best represented her ability to promote bands she loved, while giving those bands an audience that trusted her musical tastes. Lenz decided to return back to Illinois and brought along her house concert, Molly's House Concerts to Lincolnwood, a few miles down the road from her old Chicago stomping grounds. There she refined her talent for finding independent audiences and matching them with an audience intent on listening and being part of the evening and not just observers. That was key in the success of her concerts, which has led to an amazing 18 major shows a year. It also highlights the importance to the independent music community of having a venue like Molly's---a place that was free of the control that bigger venues exert on musicians, and a place where an audience could pay for energetic music, given up close and with intention. House Concerts, like Molly's are the "keystone" of the independent music scene. No one is there to get rich, except in Joy and celebration of live, independent music. It is no wonder that such venues are often in the crosshairs of the music industry, looking for ways to extract money from independent artists and independent audiences. This is the first of a two part series in which the community can learn from Molly's experiences in running a house concert and how to create independent concert venues for the benefit of player and audience alike. Her website is www.mollyshouseconcerts.com Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

May 16, 202651 min

Episode 269: “Every Song’s a Little Different." HOW JAMES WEIGEL SERVES THE MUSE

Send us Fan Mail James Weigel is a journeyman musician. He devotes much of his time working at the local music shop, Flatts and Sharpe, teaching students on a variety of instruments. He then also spends a great deal of time performing for various venues throughout Chicago. These venues range from the local watering hole to more listening friendly rooms. Those lucky enough to be able to listen to Weigel's songs will be struck by the thorough work he puts into each word he chooses for a lyrical phrase. Not trying to be clever, but done with a sincere outlook on his path in life and his own observations of the world he lives in. Inspired by other great songwriters, like Willie Nelson and Woody Guthrie, Weigel's songs have that beautiful weight of words in every line. Those words are straightforward and simple, but in total create a song that can pack an emotional and thought-provoking punch. Like many independent singer-songwriters, Weigel has almost an aversion to the notion of pursuing fame and notoriety. He instead seeks out playing for those willing to listen to his words and songcraft. In this interview, Weigel touches on how he goes about creating songs and how his melodies can be first or last depending on the situation. Great insight and advice from someone who is naturally a performer and, lucky enough for students in Chicago, naturally a teacher. His websites are: https://www.ensembleschools.com/flatts-and-sharpe/staff/james-weigel/ https://www.facebook.com/JamesWeigelUnderTheFloorboardsMusic/ Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

May 3, 202657 min

Strung Out Episode 268: JAMES WEIGEL'S NEIGHBORHOOD

Send us Fan Mail When James Weigel left his home in Metamora, Illinois for Chicago, he brought along his central Illinois, no-nonsense rural outlook on life and choosing a musical path. Central Illinois is rich in great musical traditions--from REO Speedwagon to Alison Krauss to the late Dan Fogelberg. Weigel draws from that tradition and has made a home for himself up north, while keeping that downstate sense of steadfast determination to make his music work for him. An avid player of many stringed instruments, Weigel by day can be found at the northside musical temple of Flatts and Sharpe (where Martin bought his first bass guitar) providing lessons, participating in occasional sessions and having a finger on the pulse of the local performing venues. His network of venues varies from the local watering holes to listening rooms. Weigel's songs are also varied for the occasion, fitting easily into the neighborhood setting without compromising any of his integrity. The result is a man who can travel but chooses to make his neighborhood his castle keep for his musical ambitions. Excellent song crafting and musicianship guarantees that this farm boy from Metamora is not casting his musical pearls to any swine any time soon. Learn more about James by visiting: https://www.ensembleschools.com/flatts-and-sharpe/staff/james-weigel/ https://www.facebook.com/JamesWeigelUnderTheFloorboardsMusic/ Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...

April 19, 20261 hr 1 min

Episode 267: To Build the Temple-the Creative Destruction of Justin Gillam

Send us Fan Mail Justin Gillam is a member of the Chicago area-based Americana band, the Mudflapps. He also studied literature and is an avid painter. He is also a brilliant solo artist and lyricist. Gillam's lyrics are about the human condition--the idea that to build something beautiful and worthwhile also requires a willingness to destroy what is there. In other words, creativity is not just about creating, but destruction of that which inhibits growth and expression. Gillam's own personal life serves as a model. His songs have a lot to do with vulnerability, lost loves, death of loves. But he is not a morose human being. Far from it. He surveys life with a cautious, but whimsical eye. His story of spending $90 to see Kris Christopherson and Merle Haggard perform for 45 minutes is both funny, but insightful. He may have been cheated on the show, but he was able to ingest the depth and songwriting sincerity of both of his idols during that brief concert. Gillam is a damn fine songwriter in the way he brings honesty and uniqueness to his songs. He is an excellent model to study and many more temples are out there to build and destroy. His website is www.justingillam.com. https://www.themudflapps.com/ Support the show We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT. Here are some important links: SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK MARTIN'S WEBSITE: http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM (note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!) MARTIN'S MUSIC: Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com) Martin McCormack | Spotify MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Martin McCormack - YouTube FACEBOOK Facebook ...