Songwriter Trysts Podcast – Markus Illko

In this deeply moving episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with Grammy Award-winning guitarist, educator, and recording artist Markus Illko.

Rae first met Markus through the Recording Academy at the 2025 Grammy Awards and later reconnected with him at NAMM, where he was performing with the acclaimed String Revolution. Their conversation explores a remarkable musical journey spanning performance, recording, education, and personal resilience.

Markus shares insights from his successful guitar studio and music school, where he helps aspiring musicians elevate their craft and unlock their creative potential. He also opens up about one of the most profound experiences of his life—becoming a father and navigating the heartbreaking tragedy that followed.

At the heart of this episode is Markus's stunning instrumental composition, Milo, written in honour of his son. The piece is both a musical masterpiece and a deeply personal tribute, accompanied by an artistically captivating music video that has resonated with audiences around the world.

Brian Rhea is a Christian country artist from Nashville, Tennessee, a devoted father, grandfather, and man of faith whose music is deeply rooted in real-life experiences. His passion for songwriting and his commitment to telling authentic stories shine through in both his beautiful songs and this heartfelt conversation with Rae Leigh on Songwriter Trysts.

From gospel and country music to songwriting, co-writing, publishing, and navigating the business side of the music industry, Brian openly shares his journey, lessons learned, and the wisdom he's gained throughout his career. He discusses the highs and challenges of being a songwriter, including one of his favourite songs that was written for Keith Urban and came close to making the final cut.

This is an inspiring and insightful episode packed with songwriting advice, industry knowledge, and genuine stories from a seasoned Nashville songwriter. Listen now to discover more about this incredible artist, and be sure to check out Brian's social media, give him a follow, and enjoy his music.

In this powerful episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with Canadian musician and producer Tim Steinruck to unpack a life shaped by rock ’n’ roll, resilience, and raw honesty.

Tim shares his journey from playing in a rock band signed to the KISS label, navigating the highs and pressures of the music industry, to finding his footing as a producer and creative mentor. Beyond the accolades, this conversation goes deep into Tim’s mental health journey, the personal challenges he’s faced, and how music became both an escape and a lifeline.

Christmas Special: Songwriter Trysts with Rae Leigh ft. Kenny Nolan

This Christmas, Songwriter Trysts with Rae Leigh delivers a truly iconic episode, welcoming legendary songwriter Kenny Nolan — the hitmaker behind timeless classics “I Like Dreamin’,” “My Eyes Adored You,” and the global anthem “Lady Marmalade.”

In this festive and deeply personal conversation, Kenny Nolan takes listeners behind the songs that shaped generations, sharing incredible stories from his career writing chart-topping hits that became part of music history. From crafting unforgettable melodies to navigating the highs and challenges of the music industry, this episode is packed with rare insights, heart, humour, and holiday warmth.

Host Rae Leigh dives into Kenny’s creative process, the magic of collaboration, and the moments that turned simple ideas into songs still loved decades later. Whether you’re a songwriter, music lover, or simply looking for something inspiring to listen to over the Christmas break, this episode is a must-hear.

Perfect for fans of songwriting, classic hits, music history, and Christmas listening
Exclusive stories you won’t hear anywhere else

Press play, pour a drink, and unwrap this special holiday episode of Songwriter Trysts — where legendary songs meet unforgettable stories.

Join Rae Leigh on the Songwriter Trysts podcast as she sits down with the one and only 8 Ball Aitken for an insightful and entertaining deep dive into his remarkable journey in music. From growing up in Australia to carving out a career as a songwriter and session musician in Nashville, 8 Ball shares the real stories behind the music and his signature swamp-blues sound.

In this heartfelt episode of Songwriter Trysts hosted by singer-songwriter Rae Leigh, Ester Wiesnerova, composer and Recording Academy member, takes us on a journey from her roots in Slovakia to the vibrant music scene of New York City. With a powerful story of resilience, Ester shares how she was influenced by her mother’s political and spiritual songwriting, and how music became her tool for connection and healing. From performing in prisons and psychiatric hospitals to overcoming language barriers and funding her studies at Berklee College of Music, Ester's passion for jazz and composition has been the driving force behind her remarkable career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of music and the determination to follow one's creative path.

In this special episode of Songwriter Trysts, host Rae Leigh visits the home of Bri, the creative force behind Aubrielle Artist, for an intimate and inspiring conversation. This episode dives into the life and artistry of a songwriter whose music is as cinematic as it is captivating.

Aubrielle crafts dark-pop soundscapes that blend powerful vocals with atmospheric orchestras, heavy drums, and enormous synths. Her work as a multi-instrumentalist, performing artist, and screen composer bridges the worlds of pop and film music, creating a signature style that’s contemporary, cinematic, and epic.

Bri opens up about her childhood spent between Rockhampton and the Gold Coast, how these experiences influenced her artistry, and her journey into music, starting with the humble recorder and evolving into a fearless sonic dramatist. She shares her philosophy of making listeners feel like they’re part of something greater — the same “movie trailer” anticipation that her music evokes.

This episode is packed with authenticity, laughter, and creative inspiration for anyone who loves songwriting or seeks to connect with the heart of music.

In this episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh welcomes Nashville-based singer-songwriter Matt Oakley to discuss his heartfelt song "Soldier's Son," a tribute to his father and Gold Star families who have lost loved ones in combat. Matt shares his unique journey growing up as an "army brat," moving across the world, and eventually discovering his love for music. He also opens up about his songwriting process, the importance of authenticity, and how his personal experiences have shaped his artistry. They explore the emotional impact of military life on families, and the challenge of balancing creativity with the demands of social media in today's music industry.