Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

---

Today we are joined by Hrishikesh Hirway, musician and host of the hit podcast Song Exploder, to listen to and discuss some of the songs that have influenced and defined his work, both in his music and his show.

In this episode, Jack chooses a few songs to play for us, and Hrishikesh explains the personal and professional significance they have had on his life and career. Hrishikesh talks about his love for exploring and investigating the stories and influences behind songs, as well as what made him start his podcast, and how it reconnected him to music.

Hrishikesh takes the time today to teach us what it means to dive into a song and share with us how curiosity and passion can change the way we see the world.

This Episode's Track List:
The District Sleeps Alone Tonight - The Postal Service
Our House - Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Jeremy - Pearl Jam
Ivy - Frank Ocean
Stranger - Ken Pomeroy
Seventeen - Sharon Van Etten
Red Moon - Big Thief
Born in the U.S.A. - Bruce Springsteen

Watch our podcast here: https://play.megaphone.fm/f-rd86qotxojfhckdq6uaa