Episode 4 - Astles on an album inspired by his uncle's mixtape, community music, and a hopeful view of mental health episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 1, 2025 · 54 MIN

Episode 4 - Astles on an album inspired by his uncle's mixtape, community music, and a hopeful view of mental health

from Mental Notes

In the fourth episode of the Mental Notes Podcast, Fran Slater speaks with musician Dan Astles about his album 'Soundtrack for the 21 Bus Home,' which explores themes of mental health, family, and hope. Dan shares how a mixtape from his late uncle inspired his music and the importance of open conversations about mental health. He discusses his community engagement through songwriting workshops and the role of music in coping with life's challenges. Fran and Dan connect over a shared teenage infatuation with tortured artists, one that Fran doesn't admit he still hasn't quite shaken now, as his 42nd birthday approaches. Follow Fran on Instagram @Mental_Notes_Podcast or Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social to keep in touch with podcast updates and to see Fran try and navigate how the fuck to use social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episode 4 - Astles on an album inspired by his uncle's mixtape, community music, and a hopeful view of mental health

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