Exploring the Life of Male Adult Performer Max Fills in an Exclusive Interview

Photo Credit- Jay David of Jayplayhouse.com 

I had the opportunity to conduct a Q&A session with Max Fills, a distinguished male adult performer. He is an exceptionally skilled and award-winning artist, having been honored as FleshBot's Best New Male Talent in 2022, Xbiz Clip Artist of the Year in 2022, PH's Favorite Couple in 2025, and Xbiz Best Clip Artist Duo in 2025. Our discussion explored his background, what drew him to the adult industry, and his different hobbies and interests.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear more about your background and personal journey. Tell me where you grew up and how your upbringing influenced your values and perspectives. Additionally, I’m curious about your cultural heritage and how it has shaped your identity. What specific experiences or milestones have particularly impacted who you are today? Your insights will provide a deeper understanding of your unique story.

Max Fills: I was born and raised in Colombia, and my early life there shaped everything about me. I grew up in poverty, so I know what it’s like to go without, to hustle, and to make something out of nothing. That experience gave me a deep resilience and a strong appreciation for the things I’ve built in my life. Nothing was handed to me — I had to earn every inch.

When I moved to the U.S., I got into a competitive all-boys private high school after scoring nearly perfect on the entrance exam. That score earned me a strong scholarship, and honestly, that opportunity changed my life. The environment was structured and intense — it pushed me to grow, not just academically but mentally. That’s also where I started pole vaulting. It’s a tough, technical, solo sport. No teammates to rely on — just you, the pole, and the bar. That pressure to perform alone really mirrored what I do now as a male talent. You learn to be accountable, composed, and sharp, because it’s all on you.

I also started skiing when I was three years old. It’s always been a huge part of my life. Skiing teaches you something similar to pole vaulting — there’s no room for hesitation. You have to commit, trust yourself, and just go. That instinct to “lock in” and fully focus started for me on the slopes. It’s that same mindset I bring into my work and my daily life.

Culturally, I’m proud of my Colombian roots. I carry my heritage with me everywhere I go. I’m also a massive fan of the Colombian national soccer team — I don’t miss a match. That pride, that fire — it connects me to where I come from and reminds me how far I’ve come.

All of these pieces — growing up poor, earning my way into school, pole vaulting, skiing — shaped my mentality. I learned early on that success comes from locking in, showing up, and doing the work. And that’s exactly what I keep doing.

Amit Ahuja: Every individual has a captivating story that reveals their journey into the adult industry, a field often misunderstood yet full of artistic potential. Take a moment to reflect on your experiences—what specific events or encounters piqued your curiosity about this realm?

Max Fills: Even before I got into the industry, I was already living a pretty sexually open life. I was in college, doing well academically, but at the same time, I was sleeping with a lot of sorority girls. I had a strong sex drive, and I was confident in how I carried myself. I wasn’t ashamed of it — I actually leaned into it. It was fun, but it also gave me experience. I started to understand how to read people, how to connect physically, and how to perform under pressure.

At the same time, I was also having these other experiences on the side — getting involved with cuckold couples in LA, meeting people online, even off Craigslist. I didn’t fully understand that scene at first, but the more I explored it, the more it made sense to me. It was intense, it was psychological, and I loved how focused I had to be. That dynamic — being in control, being watched, delivering in the moment — that was exactly where I thrived.

Then during COVID, everything shifted. Life slowed down, and like a lot of people, I had time to reflect. I started thinking about how short life is and asked myself, Am I really going to hold back? That’s when I stopped caring about judgment and started posting my nudes more openly. I didn’t want to die with regrets. I knew I had something unique — the mindset, the energy, and the confidence to really do this.

What started as something casual — college hookups, cuckold sessions, late-night Craigslist adventures — became the foundation for something way bigger. I realized this wasn’t just about sex. This was about owning who I am and turning that into something powerful.

Amit Ahuja: Reflect on the pivotal moments that influenced your decision to engage in this field. Perhaps it was a mentor who recognized your artistic talent and encouraged you to explore this path, or a personal experience that highlighted the significance of sexual expression in our lives. Was there a specific adult film or a piece of art that resonated with you, igniting a desire to contribute to that conversation?

Max Fills: There wasn’t one single moment that made me say, “I’m going into adult,” — it was more like a series of events that stacked over time and made the decision feel inevitable. I didn’t grow up thinking I’d be in this field, but I’ve always been drawn to intensity, to performance, and to pushing boundaries. Early on, I realized that sex wasn’t just about pleasure — it was about energy, connection, and expression. That mindset only deepened as I got older.

A major turning point for me came during COVID. Everything was uncertain, the world felt like it had paused — and that gave me time to reflect. I’d already been having sex with a lot of women in college, including sorority girls, and had been exploring the cuckold world since I was 18. I was meeting couples online, getting into real experiences, and seeing firsthand how layered and psychological sex could be. But during the pandemic, I started asking myself: If I died tomorrow, would I be happy with the way I’m living? And the answer was no — not because I wasn’t enjoying life, but because I was still holding back.

That’s when I started putting myself out there. I began posting my nudes online, no filter, no shame. I wanted to be fully seen. And the response was wild. People connected with the confidence, the authenticity. I realized this wasn’t just about showing off — this was about expressing something that’s real and raw. Sex is part of who we are. It’s not dirty. It’s not shameful. It’s art, if you know how to see it.

I can’t point to one adult film that changed my life, but I can say I’ve always admired performers who bring more than just physical energy — the ones who bring presence. I saw that and thought, That’s the level I want to reach. I didn’t need a mentor to tell me I had talent. Life taught me to trust my instincts. Whether it was pole vaulting, skiing, or showing up for a couple at 18, I learned to lock in, focus, and give my full energy — and I bring that same energy into every scene I shoot.

In the end, I chose this path because I believe in sexual expression. I believe in showing up fully. And I believe that if you have the gift, the mindset, and the courage, you shouldn’t waste it.

Amit Ahuja: Since you entered the adult industry, what kinds of opportunities have come your way? Can you share some details about the various scenes you’ve had the chance to participate in?

Max Fills: Since entering the adult industry, I’ve had the chance to shoot some incredible scenes that really tested me — physically, mentally, and artistically. I’ve worked across a range of niches, but I do a lot of MILF scenes and step-sister scenes, which always have a high level of intensity and fan demand. That dynamic tension — forbidden, high-energy, sometimes playful, sometimes dominant — it’s something I naturally lean into, and fans respond to it.

My first-ever scene was with Kayley Gunner for Adult Time, and that was a big moment for me. She’s a pro, and the energy on set was real. I locked in, gave everything I had, and that scene put me on the map. Not long after that, I shot my first scene for Spizoo with Slimthick Vic — and they had us on a marble floor. That might not sound like much to the average viewer, but for a performer, it’s a real challenge. No grip, no cushion — just pure stamina and control. I showed up and delivered.

My first Brazzers scene was a standing shower scene — again, super demanding. It’s physically slippery, there’s nowhere to rest, and it’s all about maintaining tension and connection while staying rock solid. Brazzers later flew me out to shoot in the desert, which was intense in its own right — dry heat, full sun, and no shade, but still had to keep the energy and focus at 100%.

Internationally, I’ve done some wild scenes overseas, especially in Amsterdam. I shot with legends like Sienna Day and Ava Koxx — scenes that pushed boundaries and were visually stunning. And then there was the Esperanza Gomez scene — she’s an icon in Colombia, and to shoot something acrobatic and powerful with her felt like a full-circle moment, both professionally and culturally.

I’ve filmed outdoors in extreme heat, on rooftops with wide open views, and in technically demanding spaces. One of the most high-profile scenes I did was Kazumi’s first gangbang — and that came right after she dropped a viral YouTube video teasing it. The hype was massive, and I was trusted to deliver in a high-pressure, high-visibility setup. That speaks to the level I’ve reached.

Whether it’s a tight location, a legendary partner, or a scene built on pure tension, I bring the same mentality: lock in, stay focused, and make it unforgettable.

Amit Ahuja: Additionally, is there a particular type of scene or experience that you haven't explored yet but would like to pursue?

Max Fills: I do a lot of acting in my scenes, and it’s something I take seriously. Whether it’s a quick setup or a more complex role, I always show up ready to perform — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. I’ve had the chance to bring real energy and personality into a lot of different roles, and I love when a director trusts me to carry a scene with more than just my body.

That said, I haven’t yet had the chance to play the lead in a full-length feature — and that’s something I’m hungry for. I want the challenge of holding a story from start to finish, building a character arc, and blending performance with the sexual energy I’m known for. I think people underestimate how powerful that kind of work can be in adult — when it’s

done right, it’s art. And I know I’m ready for it.

I’ve built the foundation, shown the range, and proven I can lock in. Now I want the

opportunity to go deeper — to lead something that’s not just hot, but unforgettable.

Amit Ahuja: If you had the amazing chance to collaborate with any female adult stars in the industry, who would be your top picks and what draws you to them? What aspects of working together on a scene excite you the most? Are there particular qualities or styles they possess that fuel your enthusiasm for a potential partnership? Additionally, do you have any favorite adult stars you've previously worked with that left a lasting impression on you? What made those experiences memorable or unique?

Max Fills: There are definitely a lot of incredible women I’d love to collaborate with — both legends and rising stars. Violet Myers brings this wild, playful energy that I think would create insane chemistry on screen. Nikki Benz is a true icon, and I’ve always respected her presence and longevity in the game.

Vanna Bardot stands out in a big way for me. She brings more than just looks — she brings emotional weight and nuance to every performance. She has this ability to fully embody a role and stay completely present, which is rare. I think a scene with her would feel cinematic, intense, and genuinely connected.

Angela White, Gianna Dior — they’re on that list too. But beyond the biggest names, I’ve got a deep appreciation for women who bring unique energy to the table. Kianna Dior has that elegance and power. Elly Clutch is playful and sharp. Sarah Arabic, Angie Faith, Andie Anderson, Janet Mason — all of them bring something distinct that makes a scene memorable.

Cherie DeVille is another powerhouse I admire — she’s polished, expressive, and knows how to work a camera like very few can. Lexi Luna’s sensuality and calm confidence are magnetic. And then you’ve got performers like India Flower and Gigi Sweets, who have this fresh energy that’s exciting to watch and be around.

I’ve already had the chance to work with some incredible women, like Esperanza Gomez, who’s a legend in Colombia and brought major meaning to that scene. Kayley Gunner was my first-ever shoot, and her professionalism and energy left a lasting impression.

For me, it’s not about chasing clout — it’s about connecting with people who elevate the scene. When both performers are locked in, present, and committed to making something real, that’s when the best work happens. That’s what I’m always aiming for.

Amit Ahuja: You specialize in some truly unique genres within the adult industry such as Milfs, Hotwives & Step-sisters, which one stands out as your all-time favorite among the three options? I'd love to hear what captivates you the most!

Max Fills: That’s a tough call because each genre brings something different — but if I had to pick, Hotwife scenes are my favorite.

There’s a psychological edge to those scenes that I really connect with. You’re stepping into this high-stakes dynamic where there’s tension, secrecy, and intensity — and I love leaning into all of that. It’s not just about the physical; it’s about the story, the energy, and the shift in control. That kind of layered tension is where I thrive as a performer.

What really makes hotwife scenes stand out for me, though, is that I’m usually paired with older, more experienced women — but I don’t have to play it like I’m naive or inexperienced. Unlike more traditional Milf scenes where there’s often this “young guy/older woman” taboo setup, hotwife scenes let me come in as confident and dominant. I get to meet these powerful women at eye level — and that creates a different kind of chemistry. It feels more real, more raw.

Milf scenes are still a strong space — I’ve worked with incredible performers who bring total control and charisma to the set. Those scenes are fun, but they often require me to play into a more submissive or “in over my head” role.

Step-sister scenes are playful and exciting — there’s a wild energy to them. I also enjoy working with newer performers in those setups. It gives me a chance to help guide them a bit, share what I’ve learned, and make sure the set feels supportive and locked in. I remember what it was like to be the new kid on set, and I take pride in being someone they can trust.

But when it comes down to it? Hotwife scenes are where I feel the most free to be myself — confident, in control, and fully engaged.

Amit Ahuja: In what ways has your experience in the adult industry shaped your professional journey and enriched your abilities as a performer? Can you share specific examples of how this unique field has honed your skills, built your confidence, or taught you valuable lessons that you apply in other aspects of your career?

Max Fills: My experience in the adult industry has been transformative in shaping both my professional journey and personal growth. This field demands a level of vulnerability, confidence, and presence that’s unlike many other performance spaces. Being able to show up, lock in mentally, and connect authentically on camera has sharpened my focus and self-awareness in ways I never expected.

For example, coming from an individual sport background like pole vaulting, I was used to pressure being all on me — but adult work has taken that to another level. Every scene is a high-stakes performance where I’m fully responsible for bringing energy, chemistry, and professionalism. It’s taught me how to stay present even when the environment is unpredictable or physically challenging, like shooting on marble floors or in outdoor locations under harsh conditions.

It’s also helped me develop emotional intelligence. Working with so many different performers, each with their own styles and boundaries, has made me more adaptable and empathetic. I’ve learned how to read subtle cues, communicate clearly, and create a safe space that brings out the best in my scene partners. That skill has carried over into other areas of my career and personal life, where collaboration and emotional awareness are key.

Confidence is another huge aspect. Performing in front of cameras and fans worldwide, sometimes in vulnerable or taboo situations, has helped me shed insecurities and own who I am. That mindset shift has given me the courage to explore new creative opportunities and push my limits — whether that’s experimenting with new genres, trying VR performances, or pursuing feature acting roles.

Overall, the adult industry has taught me discipline, resilience, and authenticity. It’s been an intense classroom, and everything I’ve learned on set enriches my abilities as a performer and as a person.

Amit Ahuja: What sets you apart from the newer male stars entering the industry? What unique qualities or experiences do you bring to the table that make you stand out?

Max Fills: What really sets me apart from a lot of newer male stars is the combination of my background and mentality. Growing up in Colombia and competing in an individual sport like pole vaulting taught me discipline, mental toughness, and how to lock in under pressure — qualities that carry over directly to my work on set.

Even when I was “new,” I didn’t feel new. I understood the assignment from day one and was able to figure things out quickly while simultaneously developing my own unique brand. I’m not just the goofy, wide-eyed guy — I bring a vibe of “I’ve been here before,” a confidence and professionalism that stands out, especially early on.

Another thing that’s helped me stand out is my ability to separate the sexual headspace from real life. During college, I had a lot of casual hookups with friends, and being able to keep those relationships healthy and normal after sex is a skill in itself. It shows I can get into the moment and fully commit on set but still maintain strong, respectful connections off camera. That balance is crucial in this industry.

I also have a deep understanding of the psychological side of performing. It’s not just about the physical; it’s about connection, energy, and telling a story that feels real. Whether in hotwife, milf, or step-sister scenes, I adapt seamlessly to different partners and styles while staying grounded in who I am.

Plus, having shot in challenging environments — marble floors, rooftops, outdoor locations — I’ve built resilience and a strong work ethic that newer stars might not have yet. And I take pride in mentoring newer performers, especially women, fostering a supportive space that helps everyone perform at their best.

All these factors — my mindset, quick adaptability, professionalism, emotional intelligence, and leadership — are what really set me apart in this industry.

Amit Ahuja: What exciting goals would you like to accomplish in your adult career over the next few years?

Max Fills: Over the next few years, I’m focused on expanding both the range and depth of my work in the adult industry. One of my biggest goals is to land a lead role in a feature film, where I can really showcase my acting skills and bring a more cinematic, narrative-driven approach to adult content. I’ve done a lot of scenes that blend intense physicality with authentic emotion, and I’m eager to take that to the next level with a substantial acting part.

I also want to continue building my personal brand beyond traditional scenes—exploring opportunities in content creation, live streaming, and collaborations that allow me to connect more directly with fans. The landscape is evolving, and I want to be part of the new wave that blends performance, personality, and creativity.

On a performance level, I’m always looking to challenge myself—whether that’s by working with new co-stars, experimenting with different genres, or shooting in unique and challenging locations. I want to keep pushing my limits, both physically and mentally.

Ultimately, my goal is to establish myself not just as a performer but as a respected creative within the industry—someone who brings professionalism, artistry, and authenticity to everything I do.

Amit Ahuja: Do you get actual physical enjoyment/pleasure out of sex even though it is also your job?

Max Fills: Absolutely. While this is my job and I approach it with professionalism and focus, I do get real physical enjoyment and pleasure from sex. It’s a natural, human experience, and that genuine connection and sensation are part of what makes my performances authentic and engaging.

That said, I’ve also learned to separate the physical pleasure from the work mindset when I’m on set. I’m aware of the cameras, the direction, and the performance aspect, so I balance being present in the moment with maintaining focus and energy to deliver the best possible scene.

So yes, it’s both a job and something I genuinely enjoy—finding that balance is key.

Amit Ahuja: What is the experience of being a male performer in a field where the spotlight is often shared with many talented women? How does it feel to navigate an environment where female voices and perspectives prevail, and what unique challenges and opportunities arise from this dynamic?

Max Fills: Being a male performer in an industry where the spotlight is often shared with many incredibly talented women is a unique experience that comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities.

On one hand, it means recognizing and respecting that female voices and perspectives often drive the creative direction and energy of scenes. Women are usually the central focus, and understanding their needs, boundaries, and expressions is essential. That dynamic has taught me to be a better listener and collaborator — to tune in closely to my scene partners and create space for their artistry to shine.

At the same time, this environment pushes male performers like me to bring something special to the table — whether that’s strong chemistry, professionalism, or emotional intelligence. We have to be confident yet adaptable, assertive but respectful. It’s about supporting the scene and elevating the overall experience rather than dominating it.

The challenge is balancing presence with humility. You want to stand out, but in a way that complements and enhances the performance. That balance is something I’ve learned over time and continue to refine.

The opportunity lies in becoming a true partner in the scene — someone who adds value beyond just the physical act. By embracing this mindset, I’ve been able to build strong working relationships, gain respect, and contribute to memorable, authentic performances.

Amit Ahuja: As a male star, what would you say to individuals who claim that being an adult star is so easy that they could do it themselves? It's frustrating to meet people who, even today, continue to judge artistic professions, dismissing the skill and dedication required. How do you respond to those who fail to appreciate the hard work, creativity, and emotional investment involved in this art form?

Max Fills: I hear that all the time — people saying, “Being an adult star is easy, anyone could do it.” And honestly, that mindset just shows a lack of understanding and respect for what we actually do.

Performing in adult scenes isn’t just about showing up and having sex. It’s about endurance, timing, emotional control, on-camera awareness, professionalism, and knowing how to create authentic chemistry while managing pressure from lights, crew, cameras, and sometimes tough environments. You’ve got to deliver consistent results while staying respectful, focused, and mentally locked in.

A lot of people don’t realize how much emotional and physical discipline it takes. There’s no editing around a bad performance. You can’t fake the energy or the connection — it has to be real, or the scene falls flat. And on top of that, you’re expected to maintain your physical health, personal brand, and social presence while constantly adapting to new partners, locations, and dynamics.

It’s also creative work. We’re telling stories, embodying characters, and bringing fantasies to life in a way that’s believable and engaging. That takes a specific kind of skill — one that not everyone has.

So, to those who think it’s easy: try doing what we do for a day. It’ll humble you real quick. There’s a reason not everyone makes it in this industry — it takes serious talent, resilience, and dedication.

Photo Credit- Jay David of Jayplayhose.com 

Amit Ahuja: As I delved deeper into my research about you, I discovered that your girlfriend Hailey Rose is also a talented performer within the same industry. I can't help but wonder what it feels like to share your passion with someone who understands and appreciates the art as much as you do. How does it feel to have someone by your side who loves you and is equally invested in the world you both inhabit? It must create a unique dynamic between you, blending personal and professional lives in a way that few experience.

Max Fills: Being in a relationship with someone like Hailey Rose — who’s not only an incredibly talented performer but also deeply passionate about the industry — is honestly a rare and special experience. There’s a level of mutual understanding between us that goes way beyond what most couples get to share. We both know what it’s like to be on set, to give so much of yourself to a performance, and to navigate the public and private sides of this career. That common ground builds a lot of trust and respect.

What makes it even more powerful is that we both see this work as an art form. We appreciate the creativity, the grind, the preparation, and the emotional energy that goes into doing it well. Having someone who not only accepts that part of me but fully embraces and relates to it—it brings a deep sense of security and pride in the relationship.

It also pushes me to be better. We challenge each other in a healthy way, we support each other’s goals, and we know how to keep personal and professional boundaries clear when needed. At the end of the day, no matter how intense the work is, we come home to each other with real love, trust, and understanding. That’s something truly rare in any line of work — and I don’t take it for granted.

Jay David of Jayplayhouse.com 

Amit Ahuja: What is the most unusual request you’ve received from female fans on your OnlyFans page? Can you share the types of content you create for new subscribers, including any unique themes or styles you focus on?

Max Fills: I’ve definitely had some wild requests from fans on OnlyFans — that’s part of the fun. One of the most unusual ones came from a woman who wanted a fully scripted voice note of me pretending to be her high school crush who finally noticed her after all these years. She had this whole backstory written out — it was super detailed and honestly kind of sweet. I ended up recording it like a mini audio drama, and she loved it.

When it comes to the content I create, I really try to keep things personal and engaging. For new subscribers, I offer a mix of behind-the-scenes content, solo videos, and custom clips that feel intimate and raw — like you’re getting the real me, not just the polished on-screen version. I do a lot of dirty talk, JOI (jerk-off instruction), and point-of-view style content, but I also like to tap into specific fantasies that fans request. Whether it’s a roleplay, a specific dynamic, or just something they’ve never seen before — I like to make them feel heard.

I also keep it interactive. I respond to messages, take suggestions seriously, and make it feel like a two-way connection. That’s what makes OnlyFans special — it’s not just about performing, it’s about building a real relationship with your audience.

Amit Ahuja:  When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonates with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

Max Fills:  Some of my all-time favorite movies are The Big Short, The Pursuit of Happyness, and The Butterfly Effect. Each of those films speaks to a different part of who I am and how I view the world.

The Big Short resonates with me because it’s bold, sharp, and unapologetically honest. I love stories that expose the truth beneath the surface and challenge the system — and that film does exactly that with a mix of dark humor and intelligence. It reminds me that being underestimated can be your greatest advantage if you know how to think differently.

The Pursuit of Happyness hits me emotionally every time. As someone who grew up in Colombia and experienced real struggle — including the loss of my mom at a young age — that story of resilience and fighting for a better life really connects with me. It’s about grit, faith, and never letting your circumstances define you, and that’s a mindset I carry into everything I do.

The Butterfly Effect stands out because of its psychological depth and the idea that small decisions can change everything. That concept fascinates me — the idea that one choice, one moment, can shift the entire trajectory of your life. It reminds me to be intentional with my energy, my relationships, and the risks I take.

For me, it’s not just the storytelling or cinematography — it’s the meaning behind the narrative. I’m drawn to movies that challenge me, emotionally and intellectually. That stay with you after the credits roll.

Amit Ahuja: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

Max Fills:  When it comes to TV shows, I’m drawn to stories that either hit deep emotionally or make me laugh in the most unexpected ways. A few that stand out for me are Breaking Bad, Succession, Black Mirror, BoJack Horseman, and Trailer Park Boys.

Breaking Bad and Succession are incredible for their writing and character development. They explore ambition, ego, and dysfunction in ways that feel raw and real. You see how power or pain can transform someone, and as a performer, that level of psychological complexity inspires me.

Black Mirror hits a different nerve — I love how it uses sci-fi and tech to explore very human themes. It’s not just entertainment, it’s reflection. Every episode makes you think about your choices and the world we’re building.

BoJack Horseman is one of the most brutally honest shows I’ve ever seen. It uses animation to tackle depression, addiction, fame, and self-sabotage — all with this dark humor that somehow makes it even more relatable. It’s deep without trying too hard to be deep, and I really respect that.

On the flip side, Trailer Park Boys is pure chaos in the best way. It’s hilarious, raw, and totally unfiltered. Sometimes you just need something that makes you laugh your ass off, and that show always delivers. It reminds me not to take everything so seriously — and there’s real art in making something that low-budget feel that iconic.

So yeah, whether it’s psychological drama or off-the-wall comedy, I’m all in — as long as it’s honest.

Amit Ahuja: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?  Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

Max Fills: One podcast I highly recommend is “Money Matters” by Jack Mallers. What makes it stand out is Jack’s raw passion and no-bullshit approach to talking about money, Bitcoin, and financial freedom. It’s not just about wealth — it’s about mindset. He dives deep into how the financial system works (or doesn’t work), and challenges you to really think about how you’re building your life.

What I love most is that it’s not some polished, sugar-coated finance podcast. It’s emotional, it’s real, and it’s disruptive. Jack brings a sense of urgency and purpose that motivates you to take control of your life — not just financially, but personally. He’s a guy who’s clearly locked in, and that energy is contagious.

“Money Matters” keeps me hooked because it blends valuable insight with intensity and purpose. Whether you’re into crypto or not, the way he talks about systems, freedom, and long-term thinking hits hard. It’s the kind of podcast that leaves you sharper than when you started.

Amit Ahuja: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you

Max Fills: Some of my favorite music artists span a few different genres, but all share that raw energy and authenticity I really vibe with. I’m into Blink-182 for their iconic punk rock sound — their music defined a lot of my youth with its mix of rebellion and catchy hooks.

On the hip-hop side, I really respect artists like Thouxanbanfauni, Chief Keef, and JSJR for their unique styles and how they push boundaries in their scenes. They each bring something fresh and real to the table, which I appreciate as someone who values originality.

One of my most memorable concert experiences was seeing Surf Curse perform right before they closed down the original location of “The Smell,” which is an underground venue in downtown LA known for its raw and intimate atmosphere. The vibe that night was electric — the place was packed with die-hard fans, and there was this real sense of community and history in the air. The band’s performance was intense and emotionally charged, perfectly matching the gritty, DIY spirit of the venue.

What made it truly special was knowing it was one of the last shows at that iconic spot, a place that’s been a cornerstone for the underground music scene. It felt like being part of a fleeting moment, where music, culture, and passion all collided. The crowd’s energy, the raw sound, and the authenticity of the experience made it unforgettable.

Amit Ahuja: What hobbies or pastimes do you particularly enjoy when you're not working? Are there specific activities that help you unwind and express yourself in different ways?

Max Fills: When I’m not working, I really enjoy skiing, which I actually learned when I was just 3 years old. Skiing has always been a big part of my life — it’s not only about the thrill and adrenaline but also the focus and discipline it requires. Being on the slopes helps me clear my mind and recharge.

I also love traveling, exploring new places, cultures, and experiences. Traveling keeps me curious and inspired, which feeds into both my personal growth and professional creativity.

Spending quality time with my girlfriend, Hailey Rose, is incredibly important to me. We share a unique bond both personally and professionally, so those moments of connection and relaxation really mean a lot.

And of course, family is a cornerstone of my life. Whether it’s catching up or just hanging out, those moments keep me grounded and remind me of where I come from.

Together, these hobbies help me unwind, stay balanced, and maintain a healthy perspective outside of work.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

Max Fills: If I had the world’s attention for five minutes, I’d talk about Bitcoin and its potential to revolutionize how we live. Bitcoin could solve many of the issues caused by fiat money—like inflation and the constant struggle to protect the value of what we earn.

One critical problem Bitcoin could help fix is the housing market, which is artificially inflated because real estate has become more of a store of value than a place to live. Homes are no longer valued for their utility but for speculation. This creates artificial scarcity, driven by people buying dozens of properties purely to profit, while many others get stuck in a cycle where saving up and moving forward feels impossible.

Bitcoin offers a better, fairer alternative for building wealth—one that protects your earnings and doesn’t rely on exploiting others. If people stop using real estate just as an investment for quick profit, it will open doors for more families to have a real home.

Ultimately, Bitcoin is about freedom—financial freedom, the chance to protect what you’ve earned, and the opportunity to help yourself and your family reach the next level in life. It’s not just currency; it’s a movement toward a fairer and more sustainable future. 

Amit Ahuja: We extend our sincere gratitude to Max Fills for sharing his story and hobbies with us.

You can find everything about Max Fills at his link below:

https://link.me/maxfills1

***All photos are by Jay David of Jayplayhose.com, unless otherwise noted***

An Inside Look at Lucia Rossi: Exclusive Interview with the Rising Adult Star

I had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with Lucia Rossi, an adult star. We explored her background, the motivations behind her decision to enter the adult industry, as well as her interests and hobbies. I trust you will find this reading enjoyable.

Amit Ahuja: We would love for you to share your background with us. Please tell us about your origins—where you were born and raised, the environment you grew up in, and

how your family traditions and cultural heritage have shaped your identity.

Lucia Rossi: I was born and raised in Cleveland Ohio. I grew up in a busy household. I am the oldest of five children. When I was younger, my parents made the decision to become foster parents. It was a big part of my childhood, and over the years, we had several different foster kids come and go. Even though I’m not adopted—and neither is my biological brother, who’s younger than me—we eventually ended up with three foster siblings who stayed for good. They’re all biologically related to each other, and my parents adopted them later on. Growing up as the oldest, it was definitely a unique experience having such a blended and growing family.

I grew up in a strict and religious household where rules were clear, expectations were high, and faith guided nearly every aspect of daily life. From a young age, I was taught the importance of discipline, obedience, and moral conduct, often with little room for questioning or personal exploration. While this upbringing instilled a strong sense of structure and values, it also made it difficult to express individuality or explore ideas outside of the beliefs I was raised with. As I got older, navigating the balance between honoring my roots and forging my own path became a central part of my personal journey.

Amit Ahuja: . Additionally, we’re interested in any significant life experiences that have profoundly impacted you.

Lucia Rossi: Serving in the National Guard for five years was a turning point in my personal growth. It taught me discipline, built my confidence, and pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of. But through that journey, I also discovered more about who I am—and realized that my true path lay elsewhere.

Amit Ahuja: How have these moments influenced your values, beliefs, and who you are today?

Lucia Rossi: The National Guard played a major role in shaping who I am today. It taught me discipline, resilience, and gave me the confidence to face challenges head-on. But it

also came with emotional strain and moments of questioning my purpose. In the end,

both the good and the difficult experiences helped me grow, and gave me a clearer

sense of who I want to be.

Amit Ahuja: Before you decided to start your journey in the adult industry, did you have a particular genre of adult films that you found especially appealing or engaging? You may have enjoyed specific themes or styles, such as those featuring dramatic narratives, unique character dynamics, or even artistry in cinematography. What aspects of those films caught your interest the most?

Lucia Rossi: Growing up in a strict and religious household, I was a late bloomer when it came to my sexuality. Conversations around sex were limited or taboo, which delayed my personal exploration and understanding of that part of myself until much later in life.

But the little I did explore tended to be more niche and unconventional, like medical kink, hentai, and BDSM. Looking back, those early curiosities hinted at the unique path I’d eventually take.

Amit Ahuja:  Who were the adult stars that inspired you to dive into this craft?

Lucia Rossi: There were not any specific adult stars that inspired me to get into the adult industry.

Amit Ahuja: What sparked your intriguing journey into adult creation and the adult entertainment industry? Can you describe the experiences, influences, or pivotal moments that led you to explore this unique field? How long have you been an adult actress?

Lucia Rossi: My journey into sex work started unexpectedly while I was in x-ray tech school through the military, right as COVID began to escalate in 2019–2020. I was getting by on a modest stipend when a random, harmless-looking DM popped up on my very vanilla Instagram. The message asked if I’d sell feet pics, make a giantess video, and film myself slowly eating a cracker. At the time, I had no idea what a giantess video even was—and didn’t realize these requests were fetish-related. Still, I said yes, not thinking much of it. That moment was my first real glimpse into the adult industry.

I briefly launched an OnlyFans but deleted it quickly, staying cautious due to my military ties. After graduating, I started working in urgent care and found myself deep in the chaos of the pandemic, treating COVID patients daily. Burnout hit hard, and I realized that the medical field—and its rigid structure—wasn’t for me. I craved freedom, flexibility, and control over my time. That’s when I chose to become an exotic dancer.

Less than a year ago, I took another step and entered the world of porn. Seeing fellow dancers succeed with online content inspired me to diversify. My first professional scene was released in October 2024, and from there, I’ve continued building a path that’s truly my own.

Amit Ahuja:  Since your adult industry career began, what types of adult scenes have you participated in? Could you provide details about those scenes' various genres or themes and describe some memorable experiences you've had while filming them?

Lucia Rossi: I have participated in a variety of scenes. Although I have only shot 10-15 professional scenes, quite a few of them have focused on the fitness aspect of my life. Like having a fitness related story line. Which I think is pretty cool. I have done a few milf scenes, step-daughter scenes and my most unique scene currently out would be my “Sex and Submission” scene with kink.com. That scene was specifically memorable because I was able to push my boundaries and try new things. It was truly a lot of fun, and I hope to work with them again and try even more new things.

Amit Ahuja: Are there particular experiences or themes you have been curious about but haven’t had the chance to explore yet? And why?

Lucia Rossi: I definitely have a huge interest in shooting porn with a more intense and dramatic plot. I love storylines. There are a few companies that really focus on this. I would love to be involved in films like that.

As I grow in the adult industry, I’d also love to explore scenes that reflect my own kinks and fetishes—like medical play and tentacle porn. Tapping into those fantasies feels authentic and creatively fulfilling, and I’m excited by the idea of bringing those parts of myself to the screen.

Amit Ahuja: As a performer in the industry, how do you navigate the journey of body confidence? What strategies do you use to embrace and celebrate your unique self?

Lucia Rossi: Navigating body confidence in the adult industry isn’t always easy. There are moments where self-doubt creeps in, especially in such a visually focused space. But I’ve learned to ground myself by staying true to who I am and remembering why I started. Embracing my individuality, rather than chasing perfection, helps me stay confident and connected to my work.

Integrating self-care into my routine has been key to maintaining body confidence in the adult industry. Whether it's taking time to rest, moving my body in ways that feel good, or setting boundaries around social media, these practices help me reconnect with myself. Self-care reminds me that my worth isn’t defined by how I look on camera—it’s about how I feel in my own skin.

Amit Ahuja: What is the most enjoyable & challenging moment you've faced in your entertainment journey so far?

Lucia Rossi: My first anal scene was both enjoyable and challenging. I was definitely nervous going into it—there’s a lot of pressure to perform and get everything right—but I took my time, prepared carefully, and worked with a supportive team. In the end, it was a positive experience that pushed my boundaries in a good way and helped me grow more confident in myself and my work.

Amit Ahuja:  If you were given the incredible opportunity to work with any male or female adult stars, who would you choose and why? What excites you about collaborating with them on a scene? What specific reasons drive your passion for working alongside them?

Lucia Rossi: There are so many people I would love to work with. I feel like there are too many to name!

Amit Ahuja: How has your journey in the adult industry shaped your professional trajectory and strengthened your abilities as a performer and a businesswoman? Could you share detailed examples highlighting how this unique field has honed your skills, increased your self-assurance, or taught you valuable lessons that you carry over into different aspects of your career?

Lucia Rossi: Being in the adult industry has made me a better businesswoman. Sex work taught me how to manage my brand, market myself, and diversify my income—I now have my hands in multiple baskets, from dancing to content creation. It’s empowered me to take control of my career and build something that’s truly mine.

Amit Ahuja: How do you balance your personal life with your work?

Lucia Rossi: Balancing my personal life with sex work can be tricky, especially since I strive to be my most authentic self in this job—so sometimes the two naturally blend. But I’ve learned that time management, setting clear boundaries, and knowing when to unplug are essential. Those practices help me protect my peace while still showing up fully in my work.

Amit Ahuja: Since entering the adult industry, have you ever reflected on your decision with doubt or regret? Do you think this path wasn’t the best choice for your life, considering the potential impact on your identity, relationships, and future aspirations?

Lucia Rossi: Since starting sex work, there have been many moments where I doubted the path I was on—especially coming from a strict, religious upbringing where this kind of work was deeply frowned upon. I carried a lot of guilt at first and constantly questioned myself. But over time, through personal growth and reflection, that shame began to fade. Now, I feel truly confident and free in what I’m doing, fully owning my choices and the person I’ve become.

Sex work is the best path for me at this time in my life. Like any industry, it has its tough moments, but overall, I feel SO genuinely happy and free. It gives me the space to work on myself while doing something I love—and that balance means everything to me right now.

Amit Ahuja: What exciting goals would you like to accomplish in your adult career over the next few years?

Lucia Rossi: Oh my gosh… where do I start? There is so much I want to accomplish and do. Mostly I am keeping this to myself. Everyone will have to wait and see! Just know I plan to work very hard and do some things I have never done before.

Amit Ahuja: Do you get actual physical enjoyment/pleasure out of sex, even though it is also your job?

Lucia Rossi: Yes, of course.

Amit Ahuja: What’s the most unusual request you’ve received from a fan on your OnlyFans? Can you share the type of content you create for your subscribers, including any unique themes or styles you focus on?

Lucia Rossi: I am not quite sure that I have received a super unusual request yet.

My content is diverse and catered to my fans. I love asking my fans and customers what they like to see and then I try to make that happen. My niche is definitely still developing. I have scenes anywhere from solo, b/g, b/g/g, fetishes, anal, etc. I am always coming up with new ideas. I will say a major theme I tend to gravitate towards is fitness. But I like to stay open minded and diversified!

I make my online spicy content unique by always experimenting and trying new things. Whether it’s playing with different themes, styles, or kinks, I love keeping it fresh and creative. It’s important to me that my content reflects who I am and stands out in a way that feels personal and authentic.

Amit Ahuja:  Alongside captivating audiences with your performances in the adult industry, what other artistic pursuits have you had the opportunity to explore?

Lucia Rossi: Currently, I use pole dancing and yoga as my main creative outlets. Both allow me to express myself physically and tap into a sense of flow and artistry. I wish I could say I’m utilizing even more creative outlets, though, and it’s something I definitely want to explore more. I’d love to get into photography and videography as well, both behind the camera and as a way to express more of my vision and creativity.

Amit Ahuja: It’s said that everyone has their own unique set of interests when it comes to attraction, often referred to as fetishes. I'm curious to know if you have a more adventurous or playful side that you’d be willing to share with your fans. What are some specific kinks or preferences that you find intriguing or enjoyable?

Lucia Rossi: When it comes to my personal tastes, I’m into tentacle porn, medical kink, and BDSM. I’m drawn to the creativity, intensity, and psychological edge these genres offer—they speak to parts of my curiosity and imagination.

Amit Ahuja: What would you say to those who see a career in adult entertainment as an easy route? It’s frustrating that even in today’s more open-minded society, there are still critics who pass judgment on artistic professions. They tend to overlook the tremendous skill, dedication, and artistry that goes into this field. How do you connect with those who dismiss the hard work, creativity, and emotional investment that truly make this form of expression so profound and meaningful?

Lucia Rossi: Adult entertainment is sex work. Let’s stop pretending it’s something else just because it’s polished, filmed, or choreographed. But let’s also stop pretending that sex work can’t be art, discipline, and self-expression at the same time.

People like to put sex work in a box—either to shame it or to sanitize it. But the truth is, this industry lives at the intersection of survival and creativity, labor and liberation. What I do is both a job and a craft. It takes emotional labor, physical control, marketing skill, and an understanding of human connection most people don’t even begin to grasp.

To those who dismiss it as easy, shameful, or morally wrong—especially on religious grounds—I hear you. I’ve heard you for years. But I’ve also read the scriptures and teachings that speak of compassion, forgiveness, and not casting the first stone. I’ve read about the women society tried to bury in shame, and the divine still saw them. If your faith only teaches you who to judge and not who to understand, then maybe it’s time to question where that judgment is really coming from.

Sex work, including adult entertainment, doesn’t strip us of our value. It reveals the uncomfortable truths society would rather ignore: that sexuality is powerful, that pleasure is human, and that people who embrace it aren’t less worthy of dignity, safety, or respect.

I don’t do this because it’s easy—I do it because it’s real. Because it pays my bills, fuels my creativity, and gives me agency over my body and my voice. That’s not something to be ashamed of. That’s something to own.

So yes, I’m a sex worker. I’m also an artist. And I’m not here to shrink for anyone’s comfort.

Amit Ahuja: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonates with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

Lucia Rossi: There’s something deeply special about Studio Ghibli films—their artistry speaks to me on a level that’s hard to put into words. It’s not just animation; it’s visual poetry. Every frame is filled with intention, from the hand-painted backgrounds to the way everyday moments are treated with the same care as the fantastical ones.

What I love most is how these films slow down. They invite you to sit with silence, with stillness. A breeze through the trees, a meal being prepared, a quiet moment of reflection—these scenes aren’t filler. They’re part of the soul of the story. Ghibli reminds me that beauty isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s found in the smallest, softest details.

The themes are just as powerful—independence, transformation, the complexity of human nature, and our connection to the world around us. Ghibli doesn’t give us clear-cut heroes or villains. It gives us people—flawed, kind, curious, evolving.

These films stay with me long after the credits roll. They don’t just entertain—they resonate.

Amit Ahuja: Which TV shows do you eagerly tune into, and what captivates you about them—plot twists, character development, or production quality?

Lucia Rossi: I’ve always been drawn to documentaries—they offer such a raw, unfiltered look into real lives, untold stories, and hidden truths. Whether it’s about culture, history, social issues, or personal journeys, I love the way documentaries invite us to see the world through someone else’s eyes. They challenge my perspective, deepen my empathy, and remind me how much there is to learn beyond our own experiences.

Amit Ahuja: What are some of your all-time favorite books? I'd love to hear what makes them truly special for you—the captivating writing style, the deep themes they explore, or the powerful emotions they evoke. Share your thoughts!

Lucia Rossi: I really liked Atomic Habits by James Clear. It showed me how small changes can make a big difference over time. The ideas are easy to understand and actually useful in real life. I especially liked the tips on habit stacking and focusing on who you want to become, not just what you want to do. It made me feel like I don’t have to be perfect—just consistent.

I also really enjoyed Untamed by Glennon Doyle. It’s honest and powerful, and it made me think about what it really means to be true to myself. I loved how she talks about breaking free from what others expect and listening to your inner voice. The book made me feel strong, seen, and inspired.

Amit Ahuja: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

Lucia Rossi: I like Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, Sade, Erykah Badu, PARTYNEXTDOOR and too many other bands and artists to name.

Amit Ahuja: Additionally, how have you managed the challenges you face with mental health? Share any strategies, coping mechanisms, or support systems that have played a role in your journey.

Lucia Rossi: Self-compassion, nutrition, sleep, routine, peer support, therapy, creative expression, digital boundaries, movement, journaling and mindful breathing.

Amit Ahuja: What insights would you share with others your age who are grappling with mental health challenges?

Lucia Rossi: Struggling with your mental health doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Life can feel incredibly heavy sometimes, and it’s okay to admit that you're not okay. There’s this quiet pressure to have it all figured out, to be constantly improving, achieving, staying “positive.” But real growth doesn’t always look or feel good. Sometimes it’s slow. Sometimes it’s messy. And sometimes just getting out of bed is enough.

The truth is, you don’t have to earn your worth by pushing through pain in silence. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to change direction. You’re allowed to not have all the answers. Some days will feel like progress, others like survival—and both are valid.

Asking for help or admitting you’re struggling isn’t weakness; it’s strength. It’s choosing connection over isolation, healing over hiding. Even when it feels like no one else understands, know that you’re not alone. Many people are quietly carrying similar battles.

You’re still becoming. And even on the days when you feel lost, your existence still matters. You don’t have to be perfect to deserve peace, softness, or support. You are worthy now—exactly as you are.

Amit Ahuja: What hobbies or pastimes do you find particularly enjoyable when you’re not immersed in your work? Are there specific activities that allow you to unwind and express yourself differently?

Lucia Rossi: Yoga, working out, reading, being in nature, spending time with my pets, listening to music and watching something interesting all help me unwind.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

Lucia Rossi: If I had five minutes to speak to the world, I’d say this: no one gets to define your worth but you. In a world full of labels, expectations, and judgments, it’s easy to forget that the value of who you are doesn’t come from other people’s opinions or rules.

We live in a society that tries to tell us what’s “acceptable,” what’s “good enough,” or what success should look like. Whether it’s about your body, your career, your relationships, or your choices—there’s always someone ready to judge or put you in a box. But here’s the truth: your worth isn’t negotiable. It’s not up for debate.

You are more than your mistakes, your past, your struggles, or what others say about you. You have the power to decide how you see yourself. To choose self-respect, self-love, and boundaries that protect your peace. When you claim that power, you take back control of your story.

This doesn’t mean it’s easy. It means learning to silence the noise outside and listen to your own voice—the one that knows your truth, your dreams, your value. It means standing firm when others try to make you small or invisible.

So, hold onto this: you define your worth. Not your job, not your appearance, not anyone else’s judgment. You. And when you truly believe that you create space for freedom, healing, and living your life unapologetically.

Amit Ahuja: We greatly appreciate Lucia Rossi, for sharing her story and interests with us.

Check out Lucia Rossi's Linktree below, where you can access her OnlyFans content and follow her on social media.

https://linktr.ee/msluciarossi

Photos belong to Lucia Rossi, unless otherwise noted

Behind the Music: An Exclusive Interview with Nika from Chase the Comet

Photo Credit Vladefulphoto

I had the opportunity to interview Nika, the lead singer of Chase the Comet. Although her partner Aleksandr was unavailable for this interview, Nika provided insights into her musical journey, the band, her hobbies, and more. I trust you will find it engaging.

Amit Ahuja: I would like to learn more about your background and the personal journeys that have influenced you both. Please tell me where you grew up and describe your hometown and surroundings. I'm especially curious about how your upbringing has affected your fundamental values and viewpoints.

Nika: I grew up in the city of Nizhny Novgorod in Russia. It’s a pretty big city, maybe sixth by population in the whole country. It is located maybe about 500 km away from Moscow. I grew up in a dynasty of actors, my mother and father are both actors, my grandparents on one side are actors too so naturally, I was on stage since early age. I grew up in the theater while my mom performed and my dad was away most of the time so that shaped me a lot, especially growing up in the post-Soviet environment. I was born in the USSR, but when it collapsed, the country was in ruins and it created this environment of constant danger, uncertainty, anxiety, and with my dad not around most of the time cause he went to Moscow to work often, I had to learn how to defend myself and hide my vulnerable little girl inside me. I remember when I was little my mom never let me go walk outside by myself because there were little girls that were found dead in the wells, cut in pieces all the time, and it was simply dangerous, or the other time my mom went out to a balcony (we lived on the first floor), and there was a drunk hobo sleeping there, after that my mom had grids installed on all our windows to prevent men from climbing inside. But there was always hope, you know. Hope for better times in the country and in the family, hope for bigger roles for my mom and for bigger gigs for my Dad, for better food on the table and for a separate apartment - we shared the so-called “communal apartment” with another theater family. And hope for a better future is the message I often convey in our songs. That however hard it is, we’ll push through.

Amit Ahuja: Moreover, I would like to hear about your cultural heritage. In what ways has it shaped your identity? What traditions or stories from your culture have significantly contributed to who you are today? Are there specific experiences or milestones that have profoundly impacted your personal growth?

Nika: I believe that cultural heritage affected me a lot, especially literature and art. Maybe I’m not as educated as I would want to be, but I believe a lot of depth in my personality comes from reading Tolstoy, Bulgakov and Dostoevsky (I absolutely love the first two and find the latter very tedious) in original versions when I was a teenager. Traditions that affected me, I don’t even know what to say because being Russian is something that we were made to be ashamed of in the last couple of years because of the current government’s political course, and even though I explicitly spoke out against the war and supported Ukraine, it is unfair to judge or blame anything that comes from Russia automatically linking it to the aggressive actions of the dictators’ regime. I believe courage and resilience is something that defines a Russian (or should, at least) with all the history that our ancestors have gone through. We also have a certain tendency to disregard the rules which was praised as a true Gryffindor’s quality in the Harry Potter novels haha, and I find both these qualities my core qualities. At the same time, I believe that a lot of our heritage, including the wars that our ancestors fought, have left an unrelenting imprint in our minds that now we have to heal as generational trauma which I’ve done a lot in the last couple years. Besides, even though I am Russian by passport, I have many nationalities’ blood in me: including Ukrainian, Georgian, Lithunian, even some German-Austrian (my ancestor Otto Redlin was taken prisoner during Napoleon’s war and stayed in Uzbekistan), I am also half-Tatar - Tatars are a Muslim nation that live in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan republics that are parts of Russia. Spending time with my Muslim grandparents in a village and my other Christian grandparents (actors) taught me a lot about religion and showed me very different aspects of life and people. My ancestors from my Dad’s side were also part of the former Russian aristocracy (my great-grandma was a Georgian princess and my great-grandfather was a Lithuanian prince who got 2 most significant medals in the WW1) - and one of my great-grandfather’s sisters was the last Emperor’s wife’s handmaiden! So pride and a certain, let’s say, imperiousness haha, is in my blood.

Amit Ahuja: I'm excited to delve into the details of each member's musical journey. Could you share a specific moment or experience that sparked your passion for music?

Nika: I always loved singing, but apparently I was not very good at it because when I was six, my parents decided to put me in a choir because they couldn’t put up with me being pitchy😂. My favorite animated movie that inspired my passion to singing was called “the musicians of Bremen” and it was a Soviet Musical that I just adored because of the songs. It was about a rock band so you can definitely see how it affected my whole life and inspired me to join a band later. Surprisingly, I never really wanted to play an instrument even though my mom started me on piano when I was seven, but I was never really into it, singing, harmonizing and socializing has always been more exciting for me than dryly practicing an instrument. I learned to play guitar later in life (Alex taught me) and both my piano and guitar skills are enough for me to be able to compose songs but are definitely not the skills that I would like to demonstrate publicly.

Amit Ahuja: What obstacles have both of you faced on your journey, and what strategies did you employ to overcome them?

Nika: One of the first struggles that I personally faced was not feeling comfortable seeing myself on video when we were on a TV show Back in Russia, first in 2007 and then in 2008. For me it was pure torture because I was always hyper-sensitive about my body and I had that some teenage plumpness that was called extra weight. Plus the camera always adds a few kilos and I was constantly reminded about how important it was to lose weight. Seeing me fat made me feel extremely uncomfortable with my body and with being looked at in general. At the same time, we were also struggling with not getting opportunities and for some reason we thought that we were so good that we were supposed to get a lot of opportunities and that we were supposed to be invited to play everywhere. Oh, how wrong we were! So, that was the first part of our creative journey as a band. Years later my mindset shifted into this overachiever mentality where I did a thousand percent and more to get somewhere. That was already after we moved to the States. And still almost all the doors seemed to have been closed and it was really a struggle. Anything that would pan out at first then would fall through and it was extremely hurtful and I felt like the universe was not giving me what I wanted. And I think that was part of the reason why I burned out because I had tried so hard and I saw little to no result at all. So, in the last few years after working on a lot of my traumas and pains I shifted into yet another mentality and mindset where I am creating what I want to see. But at the same time I am not going to push myself to the limits anymore and I am going to live out of the feminine strategy of accepting the good which I was never able to do before. At this point, I still wouldn't call my career a successful music career yet. I think a successful music career is what I'm manifesting right now. Because I used to live in this energy deficit mode where I would always give more than I would receive. And right now, I don't want to do that anymore. I think there should be a fair balance of the energy put into something and the energy received, and the same with resources. And in 20 years of my music career, in 20 years of playing in a band, I have invested so much and I have given so much, and I received a lot too but... this balance is not yet fair, in my opinion. So, I'm just going to wait and see what will manifest in my reality after all this tremendous inner work that I have been doing in the last couple of years.

Amit Ahuja: Is there a specific musician whose life story has significantly influenced your decision to pursue music?

Nika: I would say one of the musicians who inspired me a lot is Freddie Mercury, mostly with his energy and charisma and passion. And honestly, any story of perseverance, be it a musician or an athlete or a person struggling with their health, all of those stories have inspired me a lot. And I always thought that I had to struggle to get somewhere and I had to show the strength of my spirit to finally achieve what I thought I deserved. I was inspired by many bands and musicians and definitely stories of people making it from the poorest neighborhoods and families and people who were bullied and becoming world-famous rock stars, that's something that drove me a lot. But most of all, it was the feeling of me and kind of like my duty to share what I have with the world and bring the change that I can bring. Because I always wanted to serve the humanity, to be the light. And I'm not a doctor or a scientist to really make this change important on a big scale. So I picked music and made delivering the message of perseverance and resilience my path and my mission.

Amit Ahuja: I’m eager to hear about the inception of your band, Chase The Comet.

Nika: Well, it would be really hard to put 20 years of musical history in an answer to a question, but I'll try to make it short and sweet haha. 20 years ago, back in 2005, my very good friend David, (he was a drummer) said that they wanted to see if I would be a good fit as a singer for their band. They already had a male singer, and they wanted to have a female singer, too. Such a genre as ska-punk was popular in those days, and there was a band called Elysium, which Alex was very fond of. That band was from my hometown, and they had both female and male singers. Alex wanted to create something like this, and the fact that I was from the same city as Elysium did the trick and that's how I first made it to the band practice. Of course, that band was not called Chase the Comet just yet. It actually didn't really have a name at that time. Later, we started calling ourselves the S.U.N.Band, where the letters S-U-N signified the initials of the founders' names, which was S for Sasha (which is a short name for Alexander in Russian), U for Yuriy (which was our bassist's name), and N was both Nikita and Nika, where Nikita was the male vocalist. Later, in a few years, we turned it into The Sun without the dots, and it was not a very good idea because the name was very hard to Google, and it was just the beginning of the Internet in 2006-2007, the beginning of a wide spread Internet use in Russia. So, for some reason, we didn't have an idea to Google that, and also it turned out that it's extremely inconvenient for Russian-speaking people to pronounce the article THE because we don't have the TH sound in our language, so people were just saying ZE SUN, and it just sounded weird. However, we went to a TV Project in 2008 under that name, and that's how our first wave of popularity, if I can call it so, happened for us. And we realized later that it was not a good band name and that we needed to change that. So, after releasing an EP and one album, we changed that to MyRockBand, which apparently was not a good band name either. So, we usually say “3rd Time’s the Charm”, and in 2017, a year after we had moved to the United States, we changed it finally to Chase the Comet, and hopefully we will stay with this band name because I humbly think it's amazing. Going back to the highs and lows, I think I'm going to just briefly focus on the two most important things. The first one was, of course, my relationship with Alex, because we started dating for the first time shortly after I had joined the band, and we dated for two months. We were 15 years old, and it didn't last long, we broke up and almost ruined the band because the tension was palpable, and we didn't speak, and it took us a while to learn to coexist peacefully again, and later we fell in love with each other again and started dating in 2008, and when we started dating for the second time, we were really worried about the band’s future if we broke up. But we got older and it was more serious, and we had learned to deal with each other by then while playing together but still there were a lot of risks. We all know the story of Ben Moody and Amy Lee from Evanescence, the guys were together and they were creating fantastic music, but then they broke up and things went south with the band, and there's a lot of stories like that, take Blondie and her guitarist, so we didn't want to be that couple that breaks up, and I think many times the fear to lose the band as it was also helped us find compromise in our personal relationships. Another issue was always finding a drummer. With the years we've learned to exist without a bassist, because Alex learned to put it all in the playback, and that saves us a lot of nerves and a lot of resources and makes our touring somewhat sustainable, since we don't have to pay another person and make sure that they can go on tour with us and coordinate our practices. But finding a good drummer has always been an issue, even back in Russia, and it has become even worse here in America, because obviously everybody wants to get paid for the work that they do, especially if they're really good at it, and we can't afford to have a bad drummer. You know they say, if the band is good, but the drummer is bad, the whole band sucks, right?

Amit Ahuja: What is the inspiration behind your band’s name, Chase the Comet?

Nika: So as I mentioned, the name Chase the Comet is our third band name, and we came up with it back in 2017 when we realized, with the help of our then drummer and our American friends, that the name MyRockBand was not a good band name for the American market. So we started thinking about something that would represent the idea behind the band, and my stage name at that time was Nika Comet already. I have been going under this stage name since 2013 or 2014, and we wanted to come up with something with Comet. Chase the Comet also gives an association with chasing the dream, and that was, we thought, a perfect way to convey our message.

Amit Ahuja: What is the experience of being an independent band in today's music landscape?

Nika: Oh, yes. Being in an independent band is knowing how to do everything by yourself. And, to be honest with you, I can't complain about acquiring all the skills that I have acquired because I had to learn to promote our band. And that actually helped us both make some money with these new acquired skills. The thing is, as an independent musician, you also have to be the marketer behind your music. You have to be the producer. It's been a long time since Alex and I discovered that if we keep going to studios to record our music, we won't have enough money. And, little by little, we started recording everything at home by ourselves. So, we minimized our expenses because we produced our music ourselves and we recorded ourselves at home. And the only part of production that is not made in-house is mixing. I'm pretty sure Alex could have learned mixing as well. But it's really, really good to have a fresh set of ears to work on your stuff after you already produced and recorded it. So, the next thing, we learned how to do video editing and photo retouching. Fortunately, in the last couple of years with the appearance of AI, that has become even easier. We learned how to create content. We learned how to manage our social media, how to run ads… I built our website. I learned e-commerce and the whole process of creating products. And by products, I mean a song with a music video and uploading it to distributors and delivering it to music fans all over the world and printing merch. I work with multiple designers from all over the world helping me put my vision into the reality. And, you know, there's a never-ending flow to the lineup of products that we can possibly have. A few years ago, I released my own book, and I marketed it, and I put it on Amazon, and I had it printed in 2 languages. So, there's multiple things that you learn to do as an entrepreneur because... A band has to be a business, and fortunately, we have some amazing people who support us as a business, but at the same time, as I mentioned earlier, it's still too much energy and resources that I put out there and that are not getting back just yet. Another thing is taking care of shows. And here, again, I have to be my own stylist. I learned how to do my hair and makeup. So, that's another part of being in a band. You have to be able to create that image. So, I choose my own outfits, and I try to make them memorable and stylish and be in tune with what I'm trying to deliver. And, of course, booking shows. I, myself, booked a few independent tours that we went on, and that's a whole other job that other bands have people doing for them. We didn't have such people. So, I'm always trying to explain it to people that nowadays, and for the last 15 years, being a musician in a band doesn't mean that you just write songs and perform them. You have to be so many people in one, and I guess that's what makes me me. Because I have a pretty thorough understanding of many, many things. And, surprisingly, these are the things that turn you into a very valuable professional, like a content creator, or a video editor, or even a marketer, a PR specialist, a promoter or a booking agent. All of these jobs I could have been doing for other people, but I prefer to keep the best for myself haha. And, hopefully, that will bring me some results soon.

Amit Ahuja: What emotions do you feel when you step on stage to perform?

Nika: Usually, the lyrics just come to me with the idea of a song. And, as Alex says, he usually just channels whatever he gets, you know, from the field. I guess that's what it is, but sometimes we have to think about it, sometimes we have to talk about it and discuss what we want to put in there. But when I start working on the lyrics, it's most often just, like, channeling, indeed. And that's why it feels the truest, and when I get to perform my songs in front of people, it's always a blast. And I feel that's where I belong, I feel the happiest, and I'm able to share not just the message, because I think when people hear it for the first time, they're not really able to focus on the lyrics fully. It's more of the whole that they feel, the energy, the music that sparks the response and the emotion. And then, if later they get back home and they get to listen to our music, and they can actually dig deep down, I think they're in for a wild ride. We have songs that we do not really perform live, but that have really deep meaning that can give you goosebumps. I hope so. At least I get them when I listen to Out of the Matrix (the song on the same-titled album), for example.

AA: I want to know what inspired you to create the songs you’ve released.

Nika: I think it would be really hard and it would take half of my day to talk that much in detail about every song that we have created, besides, I think they are pretty self-explanatory. But I'll share a short story about the creation of Take Me Up. I wrote this song when we lost a friend. He died and we thought it was suicide. But there was a very shady story. He was not a very close friend of ours, but he was a fantastic guy, super sweet, and he had shot a video for our song Party Song. That was our first ever music video that we made for the band. We started editing with him, and then it was harder and harder to get a hold of him so at some point we just told him: can we just come to you with a USB drive and you can just put everything that you had filmed on our USB drive and we'll be gone and we won't bother you anymore. He agreed. So we drove to him and it was a two-hour drive, mind you, because Moscow is a horrible city to drive in. When we got there, we called him and he said he wouldn't be able to meet us because he had to go to his mom urgently. And we felt that something was off, so there was no way for us to get the materials and we were super bummed and we felt weird as if we had done or said something wrong and had to go back home empty-handed. So imagine our shock when three days later we open VK (a Russian version of Facebook), and we see that he died the next day after that incident. And he did not just die, he was found dead, lying on the ground next to the building where he lived - he fell out of the window. And it shook us deeply. We even have an episode of our DIY reality show that we were making at that time called My Rock Band Show. And we thought it was suicide and we wrote Take Me Up. And then about six months later I finally had the courage to reach out to his mom to ask her for the materials for the music video at last. And it turned out that he had actually been killed and the investigation was stopped because someone was preventing the investigation from going. Like the evidence was stolen or spoiled and stuff like that. His mom said that he had been having issues with this one corporate client at work (he worked in some serious bank) who he hadn’t given a loan to so that's why he was eliminated. And that was a huge shock because that was the first person of our age that was just taken from life so cruelly, so abruptly. That's why Take Me Up turned out to be such a strong and emotional song.

https://youtu.be/OcnMOyvbRPc?si=P6JBvP0IEjYSTLQs

Amit Ahuja: What are your favorite songs from what you’ve released so far, and what makes them

special to you?

Nika: To me, all my songs are like kids. I can't really say that some of them are my favorite. I love singing some songs in acoustic more than the others. Some are just really fun to play with the band. I love to listen to some a bit more and I am proud of some slightly more than of the others. For example, I really love playing First Time live with the band. The energy is just amazing. But I don't think this song is a big single of ours. It's just very close to the music that I listen to on a regular basis. And it's just one example. And then, for example, Until the Morning Sun Appears is a song that I'm extremely proud of from the point of view of harmony and vocal line and the lyrics as well. But we never really played it with the band. I love singing it in acoustic, however. 

Amit Ahuja: I recently had the pleasure of listening to your2024 album, titled “ILL.U.ME.NATION PART 1.” I’m curious to know which tracks from this album that you both feel particularly proud of in terms of writing and production. Additionally, could guys share the overarching themes or messages that you aim to convey to your listeners through this

work?

Nika: Ill.U.Me.Nation. Part 1 is a very intricate work of art, in my opinion. And there's quite a few songs I'm proud of. Actually, all of them. But I just pointed out Until the Morning Sun Appears. And then Mother Earth. I am very proud of the lyrics and the idea for this song. I'd had it for quite a while before it actually turned into something tangible. And it was extremely difficult to work on this one and find the right pace and the right instrumental. And I think Alex figured it out beautifully. And I was trying to give him my feedback pretty much every step of the way. And we worked closely together on achieving the right atmosphere for that track. Broken Toys is a very unusual composition for us. And I can honestly say that it was influenced by Billie Eilish, surprisingly. And I wanted to try something that I've never tried before, vocal-wise. To come from this quiet place where a person is so drained and so helpless that they barely have strength to talk. And that's where I was when I wrote this song. It was COVID times. And I thought I had to put it into the arrangement because when you're in that state, when you're in that moment, you don't want to listen to anything loud. And you definitely don't have all this power to sing your lungs out. And I think it came out beautifully with the song. And then the music video that we shot at Salton Sea here in California also adds to this haunting atmosphere. But I don't really like to play this song live because the feelings are just too heavy. And when I’m on stage, I want to mostly share the positive energy. But this is also why this song is first on the album. We want to pick up the audience where they are. Maybe they're not in their happy place. Maybe they're lost or frustrated or don't know how to keep going. And this is where we pick them up with Broken toys and we unravel all these thoughts that might be coming into a person's head. They definitely come into my head often. The topics such as, you know, growing up or growing old. And this is the second song and then how we're treating our planet. And that's how we come to Mother Earth. And then slowly, closer to the end of the album, we want to make sure that the listener follows us into finding that strength to move on and learning to be playful again with Play and Triumphant. Finding their true power through all the struggles. And that's exactly what we did ourselves. And we want to share this experience with our listeners through our music.

Amit Ahuja: We’d love to hear about any exciting projects, tours, or collaborations you have on the horizon! What are you looking forward to the most?

Nika: For now, we don't really have anything far going planned, but we're open to what the universe will throw at us. And we're waiting for the right opportunities. It's been long overdue. Right now, we are expecting our drummer from Uzbekistan to come to Los Angeles, which is happening in the beginning of May, and we're going to shoot a few music videos with him. And we're pretty excited about that. It took us a lot of effort to bring in a person from Uzbekistan. It's not easy getting a visa to the United States for people from the former Soviet Union countries, such as Russia as well, speaking about ourselves. But we did it, and now he's coming to take part in these music videos, including the one for I'm Coming Out, our newest single. And hopefully something else, preferably a tour or tours, will pan out in the very near future.

Amit Ahuja: I'm curious how Nika manages to navigate the challenges that come with being perceived primarily as the vocalist of the band. It must be quite a struggle when people focus on surface-level aspects—such as looks or stage presence—instead of appreciating the depth of your artistic abilities and the significant contributions you make musically and creatively. How do you handle that disconnect, and what strategies do you employ to ensure that your true talents are recognized and valued by both fans and critics alike?

Nika: This is a very interesting question, and to be honest with you, it annoyed the shit out of me back in the day that people would follow me on Instagram and they would leave comments under my pictures saying I was beautiful and sexy but wouldn’t really translate into our music’s popularity. Fortunately most of those people were respectful, but of course there were people who were totally out of line, you know, sliding into my DMs and just being inappropriate. Of course, I wanted people to see that I was beautiful because this was something that I lacked growing up. When I was little, even my parents, they would tell me that I was beautiful, but there was always a but. Like “you are beautiful but you have to lose weight, but you have to wear this, you have to wear that”, there were a lot of conditions and I was never considered beautiful when I was growing up. And as I said, I was always kind of bullied for my extra weight, so it was important for me to feel seen, to feel beautiful, but at the same time, I was very annoyed that that was pretty much all some people could see. It took me a while to get over that and with the years I stopped trying to match the bombshell image that was expected of me. And we lost a lot of “fans” because people were not really interested to hear what I had to say as a human being, as a personality. They were interested in an image and even though it hurt me on some level, on the other level, I was actually thinking, well, if you're here only for the looks, then good riddance. So I think it was also me trying to resist this fact that people will still assess me based on the image, but that doesn't say anything about me that actually says a lot about them and I can't control that. And if people still decide to judge me based on the looks and if people still think that it is alright to comment on a video of a band that the front woman needs to lose weight, it doesn't say anything about me. It says about them and their complete ignorance about what a creative person should be like. Well, if you wanna look at a thirst-trap with minimum clothes on her, go to OnlyFans. And I am happy that I'm finally in a place where I don't have to prove anything to anyone or meet anyone’s expectations. I can just be me and look the way I want to look, which is still pretty haha. Both my Dad and Alex think I’m the prettiest with no make-up, with my natural hair and nails. And I finally got there too😁 But I love shining on stage. I love being different. Sexy if I need to. Or not. See, that’s the point, if only play a pretty woman card, there’s always fear that you’ll stop being one - even just cause we all get older. I don’t play it but that actually gives me an advantage. There's so much more that we have to offer as a power couple than just me being pretty. I mean, I am beautiful, but it’s an ensemble of mind, spirit and body rather than just a body/a face. I think times when we objectify women’s bodies (or just anyone’s bodies) and treat them separately from the rest should be left behind.

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the fantastic opportunity to open for any band or go on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey? Additionally, what specific reasons motivate your desire to tour alongside them?

Nika: I would love to tour with many bands that I personally listen to, but at the same time, I would also love to tour with the bands that I don't necessarily listen to, but whose audience would appreciate being introduced to our music. One of my favorite bands is A Day To Remember, but I don't know if genre-wise they would take us with them on tour (I’d be totally over the moon!!!) . Or Chunk No Captain Chunk. I think we are a bit more genre-versatile than these guys and it would also be cool to be on tour with someone who offers as much genre versatility as we do. I would definitely want to be on tour with the Foo Fighters. I just love these guys. If you ever make me choose between Nirvana and Foo Fighters, with all respect to Nirvana, I'm a Foo Fighters gal all the way. I would definitely want to open up for Pink. She's one of my inspirations. I love her. One of the best live shows that I've ever been to. The energy, the sound, the singing, the show, the musicianship. It was just fantabulous. I would consider it an honor to open up for her. All in all, I think it's great when you don't only get an opportunity to perform for another artist's audience, but when you can also connect and actually learn something from the artist themselves. Last year we got to tour with CKY and Crobot. Everybody on that tour was just so amazing and supportive, and we had a great time with all the guys from those bands. I was actually really sad when it was over, because the last day of the tour we had a show in Anaheim, California, and Chad, the frontman for CKY, said: come on, let's get on stage together, all 3 bands right after we play the last song, join us on stage. We want to take a picture with you. And I said: shall we put the photographer behind the drum kit so they could take a picture of us with the audience? And he said: I appreciate the audience, but I want a picture with you all, not with the audience this time. It was you and I and all these guys who were on tour together for a freaking month. So I want a picture with you all. And that was just so amazing that people who have been doing this for so long and who have achieved much success in their field can still stay genuine and appreciative of a good band that is not that famous yet.

Amit Ahuja: Can you share a funny or interesting behind-the-scenes moment from a music video shoot or recording session?

Nika: Oh, that would definitely be filming the music video for Broken Toys. We actually even made a behind-the-scenes video about it, where I tell this story, and you could actually see how it happened and what happened. So, we went to shoot that video to Salton Sea, it's located about three hours east from Los Angeles, a little to the south from the famous Joshua Tree Park. If you've never heard of it, it's basically an area of an ecological disaster. About a hundred years ago, some people decided that it would be really cool to have a lake in Southern California, because they would use the water to water whatever they were growing there and they would make it a fancy resort, just like Palm Springs, but with the actual lake! And they got the water from the Colorado River, and after a while, the lake started vaporizing cause it’s basically a desert there. And the less water it had, the more chemical elements there were, because there's a lot of plantations around, so all the pesticides from those plantations, they were leaking into the lake. The fish started dying, and it started smelling, and people started getting sick, because they lived there on a regular basis, so the amount of chemicals in the water and air, like ammonia and sulfur I think, became hazardous for people to live there. And so the property got very cheap, people started leaving, and now it's all abandoned, and the whole towns around the lake are abandoned and look like in the apocalypse. I can't say it's dangerous to be in the water, but it's definitely not healthy, because of everything that is in that water, and we had already shot a video for To Be there, back in 2016. A friend of mine told me that there was that swing set in the water that had an absolutely ethereal feeling, and it was also the same friend that had a VHS camera, and Alex and I got really pumped about the idea to shoot a video on a VHS tape, and so we took our friend Ellie as a videographer, and we went there, and the idea was to get to that swing that was in the water, but of course, when I imagined it in my mind, I didn't really think how deep i had to walk in that water. I had prepped a few trash bags to put on my legs, because I didn't want the water to touch them. Alex took the VHS camera, that huge thing, not a handy cam that we used to have at home back in the 90s, but like a big camera that was used for TV, he put it on his shoulder, he started walking, and then it turned out that there were actual waves in that lake, because of the wind, and its bottom was so viscous that once one set their foot on it, the foot started slowly sucked in, so it was really, really hard to walk, and I was wearing those princess shoes that I had used for princess parties, and I was wearing this big dress with a lot of skirts… We walked pretty far, and when the water started going over our knees, and I started freaking out, literally panicking, because I realized it was still pretty far to walk to that swing, and I didn't know how deep it was going to get, and I was almost falling, because of the waves and the wind. And I sobbed: Alex, I can't do this, I need to go back, and he said, no, come on, keep walking, so I was crying, and then that actually turned out to be a pretty appropriate makeup for the video, because if you watch the video for Broken Toys, you can see me with l my mascara all over my face. It was because I was crying for real. The worst was when both our crotches were in the water and it started stinging. Later i figured the water was just salty but at that moment I felt as if we were getting a dose of radiation. I had to get my shit together, and told myself, well, you came here for the swing, come on, now go for it, so I got on the swing, and Alex had trouble standing there, because of the waves, and he was also holding that camera, and he had to be really careful with it, because it was not ours, and apparently it's pretty expensive nowadays, because it's like a relic, but we did it, and you can watch the result of my suffering in our music video for Broken Toys.

Amit Ahuja: What is each member’s favorite part about being on the road or performing at local events?

Nika: My favorite part about being in the band is actually being on the road and being able to play a show every day and meet new people and see new places. And honestly, every part of it, even the driving, because we don't have any other people that go on the road with us. We do everything ourselves. We drive, we put together the stage, we load-unload, and I sell merch. We don't have a merch person. But still, for me, being on the road is a bliss. And that probably comes from my childhood, because I used to travel with my mom a lot. My mom's an actress and I used to perform with her. So being on the road is just something magical by itself. And when you also get to give people a charge of energy and see their happy faces and hear good words and, you know, see different places. Even though we don't get to really, like, see cities unless we have days-off, but just driving between states is such an amazing experience. I love driving. It's my meditation. And during those two month-long tours that we went on in 2024, we drove over 23,000 miles together with Alex. It was just the two of us driving. And every part of it just makes me so happy. I would say that being on those two tours was probably the happiest period of my life in general. So I can't wait to get back on the road.

Amit Ahuja: What insights or recommendations does each member have for musicians who face rejection or experience setbacks in their careers? Specifically, how can these artists cope with disappointment and use those challenges as steppingstones for future growth?

Nika: Honestly, every musician, even a famous musician, is not guaranteed to not feel disappointment or setbacks. As human beings, we all face that in different periods of our lives, not just in careers. I would say the best way to cope with other people's disappointment is, first of all, to never expect that it's going to be something else. To focus on why you are doing this, if you are doing this, creating music and any other art, because deep inside you are craving for approval, you are doomed. Because you ARE going to get disappointed. And if it’s your own disappointment, you gotta learn how to process that. Because there's always going to be people who are not going to like us, and whatever setbacks one is having, there's always a reason for them. Even if we are not able to see this reason in the moment, and we feel like whatever is happening is holding us back or making us miserable, we can't see the bigger picture. One of the best examples for me of this was when we came to the United States and we got cheated trying to rent an apartment, and we lost money, and we had nowhere to live, and we didn't have any connections, or documents, nothing. It was really bad, and it felt like the end of the world. Years later we realized that we actually saved so much money because this happened to us, because after that people felt sorry for us, and we got to couch surf a lot, which also gave us a sense of community, and we connected with one of our very good friends who actually mixed two of our albums later. The starting point of that friendship and of that connection was actually the fact that we lost money trying to rent an apartment. A lot of Americans that we met after that were really touched by our story, so even though it was really hard to live through that, I wouldn't have changed a thing because I believe that the universe only gives us the lessons that we're supposed to go through. And if something's not working, maybe it's time to just relax, sit back, and give it some time, and wait until things change.

Amit Ahuja: What three standout qualities make you truly exceptional as a singer?

Nika: I honestly don't think I'm exceptional as a singer. I'm definitely very good. But I think what makes me exceptional is the charisma and the stage presence that I have as an artist, as a showman. And also the ability to be versatile and not just stick to one thing that I'm good at, but to try different things and new things and mix them to achieve different results. I think it’s the versatility. And that comes from very big studio experience. Not just recording for our band, but also working with other bands and working with different sound producers, for private employers, and analyzing. I think a lot of creative people think they don't need to be smart, but actually being smart helps you analyze things better. And when you're able to analyze, you're able to apply the results of your analysis to the things that you do, even creatively. So I think that's a perfect harmony between both hemispheres of the brain that I try to achieve. It's not that I do this on purpose, it's just how I am. And that's what helps me learn things and notice things. Being aware and being able to analyze and apply that knowledge or practical tools.

Amit Ahuja: I’d like to direct a question to each of you; I’m genuinely curious to know if any of you have hobbies or interests that ignite your passion outside of your musical endeavors?

Nika:  As I mentioned before, I ride horses. I do dressage. I used to compete and took lessons from some really serious athletes and judges. I continue riding a lot, about three times a week. I work with a senior Andalusian horse right now and his name is Dominio - hopefully you’ll see him in one of our music videos soon. I also love running. I go to the gym, maybe not as often as I wanted to. Right now, I'm focusing a lot on recalibrating my energies. A lot of my focus goes there. I spend a lot of time in nature, just enjoying being rather than getting myself busy with something. Hopefully, I will be able to have more energy in the coming years. I actually thought about maybe learning a little bit of Chinese. I'm a lot into Chinese teachings. I do Tai Chi and Qi Gong. I'm extremely fascinated by the Chinese Book of Change or I-Ching. Also, I'm learning more about the way of the Dao. Probably, I'll look into that. In this case, Chinese, if I ever get to start learning it, would be my fifth language. I'm a little out of practice with my French. My Spanish is not very fluent, but I fluently speak English and Russian. Learning another language that is completely different from the ones that I already know would be an interesting challenge.

Amit Ahuja: What are each member's favorite movies, and why are they significant to you? Is it the story, the characters, the visuals, or something else that resonates with you?

Nika: It would be hard to name other individuals than my mom and dad, and their influence is obvious, but also it's hard to say negative or positive. It just shaped me into who I am a lot, including shaping me against my own conscious will, but they definitely gave me a lot of my creative spirit and my charisma. The things that I don't agree with, I worked on, and I think they are in an almost perfect balance now. And then as a third one, I'm just going to mention, not an individual, but an event. It's an event called Aniwa that I first went to in 2023. It's a gathering of the Indigenous elders for the purpose of sharing wisdom and knowledge, and educating the Little Brothers (that's what some Indigenous people are calling us Western people), about nature and harmony and balance. And going to that event in 2023 changed the course of our lives together with Alex, and this year I am extremely excited to take Alex with me for the first time.

Amit Ahuja: What TV shows do each of you enjoy and look forward to watching? What captures your attention in these shows—perhaps the surprises, character development, or overall production quality?

Nika: In general, I can say for the both of us, Alex and I, that we love fantasy. We adore the Lord of the Rings trilogy and just Tolkien's world in general. And I am more of a fan than Alex, actually. We love the Harry Potter movies as well as the books too. And for Tolkien as well. It was the books first and then the movies. We both love the Back to the Future trilogy. When we met, I actually named it as my favorite movies. And Alex said it was the same for him. I don't know if he lied haha. But we love a lot of movies that we watched as kids. A lot of 90s movies. And we love something serious and mind-blowing like Interstellar or Inception. Stuff like that. Regarding the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter, this is something that I re-watch every year, and it is absolutely necessary to re-watch the Director's Cut Extended Edition, and usually after I watch the Lord of the Rings, I watch The Hobbit as well, and that's a big treat for me, and I usually do it around Christmas time.

We watched many shows and we absolutely love, and I'm saying we because in most cases, our tastes match. For example, Alex's all-time favorite show is The Office (US), and I love that show with all my heart as well, but it's among my favorites, not my favorite. I love Friends. I love The Big Bang Theory. We both love a good drama series too, like Money Heist or Breaking Bad or a sci-fi masterpiece The Expanse. The Game of Thrones is one of our all-time favorites. Right now, we are watching, with much interest, another HBO show, The Last of Us. It's because we also play video games and the game with the same title is actually Alex's favorite. I love it too, and when he played it, I was always next to him following the plot and getting scared haha, and we are enjoying the series right now.

Amit Ahuja: Which books do each member appreciate the most, and what makes them significant to you? Is it their writing style, the themes they address, or the feelings they inspire?

Nika: As I mentioned, we are both suckers for fantasy. So, of course, Tolkien's World started with books for me. And I love Harry Potter. I love the Chronicles of Amber. I read it in Russian, so I'm not exactly sure if that's what it's called in English. I also love Terry Goodkind’s “the Sword of Truth” series. I didn't read it until the end, but I absolutely fell in love with the first five or seven books. I love inspirational books. I read books by Wayne Dyer, Joe Dispenza, Eckhart Tolle, John Kehoe, Neil Walsh, Vadim Zeland (he’s a Russian author). All of those books are about the law of attraction and manifestation and visualization. And I think that’s also why I love fantasy because in fantasy, however hard the hero struggles, they still find a way. And that appeals to me a lot.

Amit Ahuja: Which podcasts does each member passionately recommend, and what makes them stand out?

Nika: I don’t honestly listen to any specific podcasts on a regular basis but lately I watch Abraham Hicks’ YouTube channel relatively often. She speaks about the laws of the Universe and how to apply them in daily life.

Amit Ahuja: I want to know about each member's favorite bands or music artists that all like. I’d also like to hear about each member's most memorable concert experience. Please share details about the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

Nika: I already mentioned that one of my favorite bands is A Day To Remember, and I love bands that can masterfully combine the heaviness and the pop melodies and state-of-theart production, and I also respect A Day To Remember a lot from the musical point of view because they always, even though they stay loyal to themselves, they always try something new, they always are looking for new ways to express themselves, to not get bored, and at the same time they still do what I like them for, and I think this is a perfect combination. They just released a new album in March, and I absolutely love it. I love Blink-182, I love a lot of other pop-punk bands like New Found Glory (also one of my favorite bands), I already mentioned them before, I love some pop songs sometimes, I absolutely love Pink and Rihanna, and some songs of Katy Perry, I like some classic older bands like Motörhead, AC/DC, I love a not very well-known project of Askin' Alexandria frontman Danny Worsnop, the band is called We Are Harlot, and unfortunately they just released one album, and it was like 10 years ago. That album is fire, that is such a perfect mix of energy, rock and roll, great melodies, great musicianship, and I just love it, I would recommend listening to it to any rock fan. I generally love positive and energetic music, but I also listen to a lot of ambient and new age, they usually come one after the other, so for example, when I ride a horse, (I do horse riding), I listen to my personal playlist, it's available on Spotify, it's called Energy Pump by Nika Comet (that's where you can find all my favorite songs and all my favorite bands and artists), and after I'm done, I turn on some meditation music and just chill. 

With the concert - I already mentioned P!nk and also last year I got us dance floor tickets to ADTR and I went to the first row and got into slam and a circle pit and it was AWESOME! Once we also flew to Mexico to see the Foo Fighters and the next day after the show we met Dave Grohl and the late Taylor Hawkins on a Teotihuacan pyramid! We shook their hands and I even managed to take a picture with Taylor!

Amit Ahuja: How does each member define happiness in their life?

Nika:  Happiness is just being grateful for being here. Being in peace with who you are and seeing the beauty around you. Being content with what you have. Enjoying the elusiveness and the eternity of the moment.

Amit Ahuja: Each member take time to reflect on your personal experiences with mental health. Consider how these experiences have impacted various areas of your life, such as relationships, work, and personal growth. What specific insights have you gained through these moments?

Nika: I used to struggle a lot with mental health issues. I had panic attacks and it was really hard for me to deal with my horrible mood swings. And when I stopped drinking alcohol and smoking weed, it all got worse because obviously alcohol and weed were just covering up my emotions. And as a child, I was never taught to deal with my emotions. I guess no one was really taught that, at least not in our country. And that's why I had to learn to deal with all that as an adult. And I had to discover a lot of things about myself, about my past. And therapy is the way to go. I pretty much tell all the people who struggle with anything that they need to go to therapy. And they at least need to start this process because it is a process. It doesn't happen overnight. It doesn't happen in six months (though one might definitely start feeling better!) It's a process. And you have to be patient and you have to actually believe that you can get better. And especially with people nowadays being so focused on just carrying their diagnosis all over as if it's a thing that can never change. Like, oh, I have anxiety. Everybody has anxiety. I have a horrible anxiety and yet I've learned to deal with it. And therapy helps you understand where this comes from and how to deal with it more effectively so that eventually you can stop being conditioned by the things that were, I won't say that were not your choice, but let's say they were not your conscious choice. So as an adult, you can change into a person who is able to make conscious choices rather than being conditioned by the choices that were made for you when you were a child. So therapy and of course, believing that change is possible.

Amit Ahuja: Additionally, think about how you all have managed the challenges related to your mental health. Share strategies, coping mechanisms, or support systems that have significantly impacted your journey. What insights would each member like to share with others around the ages you all are who are grappling with mental health challenges?

Nika: ne of the things that the universe wanted me to learn, in my opinion, was to trust the divine flow, which I really had issues with back in the day, because I felt like the world was kind of like, a dangerous place. I was never afraid of the world itself but mostly people. So I learned to show my spikes, I learned to always stay put, and the spiritual journey that I have been on in the last couple of years has shown me how to trust the flow myself. That is a lot about stepping into my feminine energy, because that's what feminine energy is about, acceptance and trust. And this is something that I, as a woman, learned, and then I realized that this is a change that is happening on the collective level. So a lot of women are waking up to feel that right now. And even women who were always independent and who were, in a way, competing with men, they are learning to be more yielding, let's say, and that doesn't mean weak, that was the main lesson, that yielding or accepting doesn't mean being weak. And for men, I think the main lesson is to learn to take initiative in their hands and be more proactive, at least that's the lesson I see Alex is going through, especially since we're twin flames and a couple for so long. That is a very important change, an energetic change, first of all, and I really believe that changing the energies, me stepping more into my feminine energy, him stepping more into his masculine energy, is that balance and that harmony that we were lacking for so long. But that was the point, the universe showed us the way, or if you want to call it God, it doesn't really matter what you call it, but trusting that anything that happens to you happens for a reason and knowing that there's a divine timing for everything is something that I did not just understand with my mind, but something that I lived through with my spirit. And that is why I firmly believe that a lot of good things are coming our way because we’ve been able to honor that balance and get there and change our energy and harmonize ourselves with the divine idea of masculine, feminine, yin and yang, day and night, and still perceive everything as one.

Amit Ahuja: What message would each member share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

Nika: Everyone needs to go to therapy😂 and spend time in nature contemplating and standing with their bare feet on the ground so that we can save this beautiful planet for future generations.

Amit Ahuja: Thank you to Nika from Chase The Comet for sharing her story and interests with us.

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