Matt Friend's Spark Is Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me

Comedian and impressionist Matt Friend joins Adam to talk about the movie that sparked his comedy journey: Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. In this episode, Matt and Adam dive deep into the entire Austin Powers franchise, unpacking the iconic characters, endlessly quotable gags, and the unique comedic genius of Mike Myers.

Matt shares how watching Austin Powers as a four-year-old completely changed his life, inspiring him to start mimicking voices and setting him on a path to becoming one of the most exciting young comedians today. From his early days obsessing over DVDs and Blockbuster runs to his viral celebrity impressions and appearances on The Howard Stern Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Simpsons, and Family Guy, Matt reflects on how the Austin Powers films shaped his love of character-driven, physical, and absurdist comedy.

About Matt Friend:

Matt Friend is a comedian, actor, and impressionist with over two million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. He’s known for his spot-on celebrity impressions (over 250 in his repertoire!), viral comedy interviews, and performances at major events like the Netflix Is A Joke Festival and the White House Correspondents Dinner. Matt has voiced characters for The Simpsons and Family Guy.

About The Spy Who Shagged Me :

Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me is the second film in the Austin Powers franchise, released in 1999 and directed by Jay Roach. The film stars Mike Myers in multiple roles—Austin Powers, Dr. Evil, and Fat Bastard—and features Heather Graham, Michael York, Rob Lowe, and Seth Green. The story follows Dr. Evil as he travels back to the 1960s to steal Austin’s mojo, leading to outrageous adventures, time travel hijinks, and a parade of unforgettable characters. The Spy Who Shagged Me became a box office hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and introduced fan favorites like Mini-Me and Fat Bastard. Its mix of slapstick, innuendo, and pop culture parody cemented its status as a comedy classic.

In this episode:

• Matt’s origin story with Austin Powers and why The Spy Who Shagged Me stands out

• The influence of Mike Myers’ multi-character performances on Matt’s own comedy and impressions

• Favorite scenes, supporting characters, and the film’s hilarious attention to detail

• How the Austin Powers movies inspired Matt’s career, from childhood mimicry to viral stardom

Kyle Gordon's Spark Is A Mighty Wind

In this episode of The Spark Parade, host Adam Unze (@sparkparade) sits down with Kyle Gordon, the New York-based comedian, actor, musician, songwriter, and improviser who’s taken the internet by storm. With over 6 million followers and a billion views across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and more, Kyle’s unique characters and pitch-perfect musical parodies—like his viral hit “Planet of the Bass”—have made him a household name and landed him on Variety’s 2023 “New Power” List.

Kyle shares his comedic origin story, from watching A Mighty Wind with his family to how Christopher Guest’s films shaped his sense of humor and approach to improv. Adam and Kyle break down what makes Guest’s mockumentaries so special: the improvisational brilliance of the ensemble cast, the meticulous character work, and the decades-long commitment to the bit that brings these worlds to life. They also discuss the legacy of A Mighty Wind, its cult status, and why its hyper-specific comedy resonates so deeply with fans and performers alike.

And then Adam gives his first of two recaps of his picks from the Tribeca Film Festival!

Key topics in this episode:

• Kyle Gordon’s early memories of A Mighty Wind and discovering Christopher Guest’s filmography

• The influence of improvisation and ensemble trust in Guest’s movies

• Deep character development and how it fuels comedic spontaneity

• The legacy of A Mighty Wind and its place in comedy history

• Kyle’s journey as a viral comedian, from live comedy in NYC to international recognition, and his debut album “Kyle Gordon is Great”

About Kyle Gordon:

Kyle is a multi-talented performer known for his innovative online comedy, musical parodies, and standout characters. His 2023 hit “Planet of the Bass” was named Song of the Summer by major outlets. He’s performed with the Jonas Brothers, appeared on The Simpsons, Comedy Central, Adult Swim, and Fortnite, and his debut album debuted in the Billboard Comedy Albums top 10.

About A Mighty Wind:

A Mighty Wind (2003) is Christopher Guest’s loving send-up of the folk music world, featuring an all-star ensemble cast improvising their way through a tribute concert reunion. The film’s razor-sharp satire and affection for its subject have earned it a devoted cult following.

Listen for:

• Behind-the-scenes stories about improv, character work, and the joys of hyper-specific comedy

• Insights into the creative process of one of today’s most exciting comedians

• A celebration of Christopher Guest’s enduring influence on comedy

Julia Wolf's Spark Is Twilight

Singer-songwriter Julia Wolf joins Adam to talk about her love for Twilight — the blockbuster film that defined a generation.

In this episode, Julia opens up about how Twilight helped her through her teenage years, why she connected so deeply with Bella Swan, and how the intense emotions of first love, heartbreak, and identity shaped both the story and her own life.

We also explore the iconic performances by Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, the film’s distinctive visual style, and the cultural impact of Stephenie Meyer’s vampire romance saga.

Whether you were Team Edward, Team Jacob, or just obsessed with the Twilight soundtrack, this conversation dives deep into what made the series unforgettable — and how its legacy continues to inspire artists like Julia today.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Ok Go front man Damian Kulash's Spark Is Fugazi's Repeater

Damian Kulash, lead singer and guitarist of OK Go, joins Adam for an unforgettable conversation about the album that changed his life: Fugazi’s landmark 1990 release Repeater.

Damian shares his teenage memories of discovering Fugazi in the heart of the Washington, D.C. punk scene and how Repeater gave him a blueprint for making music that was raw, political, human, and totally accessible. From DIY shows in churches to five-dollar ticket prices and all-ages gigs, Fugazi’s ethos left a permanent imprint on him — and helped shape his approach to music, art, and live performance.

We get deep into:

• The power of seeing music made by real people, in real time

• How Repeater became a gateway to punk, DIY ethics, and artistic empowerment

• The surprising parallels between Prince and Fugazi

• Why the D.C. hardcore scene was a “religion” for creative kids

• How that same mindset lives on in OK Go’s genre-bending videos and music

Whether you're a lifelong Fugazi fan or just discovering the magic of Repeater, this one’s a wild, inspiring ride.

About Repeater:

Released in 1990, Repeater is the debut full-length album by legendary post-hardcore band Fugazi. Combining punk aggression with experimental songwriting and a fiercely independent ethic, the album set a new standard for underground rock. It remains one of the most influential records of the 1990s.

About Damian Kulash:

Damian Kulash is the frontman of Grammy-winning alt-rock band OK Go, renowned for their groundbreaking music videos and inventive pop-rock sound. OK Go’s commitment to DIY creativity and visual storytelling has earned them a global fanbase — and it all traces back to the raw power of bands like Fugazi.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Suzanne Vega

Hello, World!

Legendary singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega joins Adam to discuss her deep connection to Lou Reed’s 1973 concept album Berlin — a haunting, operatic record that became a major influence on her songwriting, especially her iconic hit “Luka.”

Suzanne shares how seeing Lou Reed live for the first time at Columbia University blew her mind, how Berlin’s brutal honesty shaped her approach to writing about difficult subjects, and why pairing dark lyrics with upbeat melodies can create something truly powerful. She also reflects on Reed’s raw, confrontational style and how it taught her to be fearless in her own artistry.

Whether you're a fan of Lou Reed, Suzanne Vega, Berlin or behind-the-scenes stories of iconic songs like Luka, this episode is a must-listen.

Goldie

Legendary drum and bass DJ and producer Goldie joins Adam for a deep dive into the cultural force that helped shape his identity: the groundbreaking graffiti documentary Style Wars.

From his first encounters with the film and Subway Art to his close relationships with graffiti pioneers like Henry Chalfant and TATS CRU, Goldie unpacks the profound connection between street art and jungle music.

He also reveals how the layering, rebellion, and cryptic complexity of graffiti mirrors his approach to music production — especially on his new Rufige Kru album Alpha Omega, dropping May 15, 2025.

As Goldie tours the U.S. throughout April and May 2025, he’s reflecting on the sounds and visuals that influenced generations of underground artists. Hear how graffiti and drum and bass intertwine, why Style Wars still matters 50 years on, and what it means to leave your mark — whether it’s on a train, a wall, or a record.

Freaky Tales and Captain Marvel directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck

Filmmakers Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck (Captain Marvel, Half Nelson) join Adam for a rich and nostalgic dive into two beloved films: Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders and Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining.

They explore how both films shaped their creative lives, the emotional and stylistic impact of each, and their unique experiences discovering them. From Flea’s surprise cameo in The Outsiders' Rumble scene to Ryan’s unforgettable VHS-era first watch of The Shining (cut off right at “Here’s Johnny!”), the conversation touches on everything from childhood wonder to directorial style, from film adaptations to haunting performances.

Along the way, they dig into:

• The stylistic choices in The Outsiders and Coppola's vision

• The Outsiders House Museum in Tulsa and its unexpected founder

• The eerie magic of The Shining's unsettling performances

• The lore, fan theories, and filmmaking myths surrounding The Shining

corook

This week on The Spark Parade, Adam is joined by the incredible musician Corook for a deep dive into Juno, the 2007 indie classic starring Elliot Page and Michael Cera. Together, they unpack the film's raw honesty, its nuanced approach to teenage life, and the way it portrays relationships with humor and depth.

Adam and Corook also explore Elliot Page’s groundbreaking career and the complexities of looking back on past work through the lens of identity and transition. They discuss the broader cultural impact of Juno, its handling of pro-choice themes, and how its understated realism makes it a standout coming-of-age story.

Plus, they reflect on the importance of visibility for trans and queer artists, the bravery of living authentically in the public eye, and why Page’s continued presence in Hollywood matters now more than ever.

And, of course, there's a little Christopher Nolan news thrown in for good measure!

Zora

In this episode, Adam sits down with ZORA, the genre-blurring artist and producer, to dive deep into the nostalgic world of Spy Kids 2 and its lasting cultural impact. They discuss why the film remains iconic, how early-2000s music and aesthetics shape ZORA’s sound, the evolution of nostalgia-driven reboots, and the unexpected celebrity connections of the Spy Kids cast. Plus, ZORA shares insights into her creative process and how pop culture influences her artistry. This conversation is a must-listen for music lovers, film buffs, and pop culture enthusiasts alike!

David Gray

🎙️ In this episode, host Adam sits down with singer-songwriter David Gray to explore his deep connection to Van Morrison’s iconic album Astral Weeks. From his first listen at university to his eventual obsession, David unpacks the album’s hypnotic power, poetic brilliance, and unique soundscapes.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Astral Weeks shaped David Gray’s musical journey

✅ The poetic intensity and raw experimentation behind Van Morrison’s masterpiece

✅ Why Astral Weeks remains one of the most enigmatic and influential albums of all time

✅ The connection between Van Morrison’s songwriting and the Irish literary tradition

🔊 Whether you’re a longtime Van Morrison fan or new to Astral Weeks, this conversation offers fresh insights into one of the most celebrated albums in music history.

Bishop Briggs

Singer and songwriter Bishop Briggs loves the sweeping emo theatricality of My Chemical Romance's breakout album The Black Parade. She's drawn to its punchy lyrics and anthemic melodies, but also loves the risk taking aesthetics that border on camp. In a wide ranging conversation, Bishop talks to Adam about her love for MCR, Lady Gaga's fearlessness, the exciting rise of queer artists like Lil' Nas X and Chappell Roan.

Chris Diamantopoulos

Prolific actor Chris Diamantopoulos latched onto George Michael's monster hit solo debut album Faith at a young age. It resonated with him as a fellow singer of Greek descent, but he was also blown away by Michael's songwriting prowess and the singular sound of his legendary singing voice. He's marveled at Michael's ability to create timeless songs without any formal training and has come back to his work for inspiration time and time again.

Catch Chris in the The Sticky on Amazon Prime Video when it premieres on 12/6!

Lubalin

Singer and musician Lubalin has been infatuated with Steven Spielberg's classic sci-fi family movie E.T. The story's emotional depth and (for a kids movie) surprisingly complex character development stuck with him from the moment he first saw it as a child through to adulthood. The production design and overall aesthetic have had a big impact on his own work and have informed his approach to connecting with audiences.

Barlow & Bear

GRAMMY-Award winning songwriting and composing duo, Barlow & Bear (Emily Bear and Abigail Barlow) have been breaking boundaries in musical theater by independently carving their own path in the heavily male dominated space. Part of their success is their vastly different tastes and influences, as evidenced by their Spark choices. Abigail absolutely loves Katy Perry's breakout album One Of The Boys, with its massive pop hits "I Kissed A Girl" and "Hot N Cold." In contrast, Emily Bear has always adored the 1961 film version of Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim's musical masterpiece West Side Story. Those opposing forces blend together perfectly in their music for Disney's highly anticipated sequel Moana 2!

Bastille

Bastille front man Dan Smith first saw Scream as a pre-teen and instead of being terrified, he was instantly hooked on the horror genre. It was also his gateway to a whole world of cinema, including films by directors like David Lynch and Stanley Kubrick. Scream had a huge influence on his approach to music making, helping him to infuse his work with references from other mediums.

Rosie Lowe

Singer and songwriter Rosie Lowe became infatuated with Erykah Badu's second album Mama's Gun at an early age. She's continued to love its eclectic musicality and powerful melodies into adulthood. But it's the lyrics that hit her the hardest. Badu talks about body image, heartbreak, motherhood and other weighty topics with humor and joy. It's a combination that has had a profound impact on Lowe both personally and professionally.

Orla Gartland

Irish singer, songwriter and musician Orla Gartland has always been fascinated by Imogen Heap's unique approach to music making. Her use of ambient sounds and new technologies has always pushed Heap's work to the forefront of the musical landscape. Gartland is enamored of Heap's lyrics and her forward thinking production and has taken inspiration from both in her own work.

Kimbra

Singer/songwriter KIMBRA loves the creativity and experimentation that runs through The Love Below, Andre 3000's half of Outcast's monster hit double album Speakerboxxx/The Love Below. She loves his fearlessness and its served as a model in the creation of her own work. Andre 3000 took a left turn from hip hop to genre's including r'n'b, soul and jazz. The experiment paid of an the double album has become the highest grossing rap album of all time.

Maxïmo Park's Paul Smith

Maxïmo Park front man Paul Smith's first CD purchase was George Michael's legendary album Listen Without Prejudice Vol 1. The album imprinted itself on his brain because of Michael's skill as a lyricist and musician. But he was also infatuated with the album's weirdness. Excluding the hit single Freedom '90, it's an album full of ballads and meandering melodies. It was a radical act for one of the biggest pop stars in the world and it's influence continues to reverberate across a broad swathe of musical genres.

Travis' Fran Healy

Travis front man Fran Healy first heard about the Academy Award nominated film Aftersun in an interview about the importance of music in film. This reference would resonate through Healy's relationship with the film. It spoke to him and sunk into his consciousness in a way that only music had done before. He watched Aftersun over and over, getting something new from the narrative and performances with each viewing.