Music discovery used to happen almost by accident. A radio station, a relative's record collection, summer camp or some unexpected song could introduce you to something you'd never gone looking for. Has streaming made that experience better, or simply more predictable?

Ryan O'Donnell argues Spotify has introduced him to more new artists than anything else in his life. Shane isn't convinced, especially when an algorithm can keep serving variations of what it already knows you like.

So what's missing when discovery becomes personalized by data? From music directors who could hear a hit to playlists built specifically for you, there's a bigger question underneath it all: do we discover music differently when another human being chooses what we hear?

Topics: music discovery, Spotify, radio, music algorithms, new music

Originally aired on 2026-09-28

Music discovery used to happen almost by accident. A radio station, a relative's record collection, summer camp or some unexpected song could introduce you to something you'd never gone looking for. Has streaming made that experience better, or simply more predictable?
Ryan O'Donnell argues Spotify has introduced him to more new artists than anything else in his life. Shane isn't convinced, especially when an algorithm can keep serving variations of what it already knows you like.
So what's missing when discovery becomes personalized by data? From music directors who could hear a hit to playlists built specifically for you, there's a bigger question underneath it all: do we discover music differently when another human being chooses what we hear?
Topics: music discovery, Spotify, radio, music algorithms, new music
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-09-28

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.