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Back On The Grind — Music
Back On The Grind

A podcast exploring life, music, people & the stories that bring us closer.

Episodes are published on the 1st & 15th every month.

With intimate interviews, folk punk & my own personal experiences, I explore how we can show up for the story of life. There’s no reason to do this alone, we can learn from each other, even if we make some mistakes along the way. Join me as I embark on a journey to figure out how to find meaning & balance, navigate relationships & culture, all while growing with you. We can survive our failures, learn from them & celebrate the victories we also achieve when we put in the work.

I have a strong connection to the folk punk & DIY, underground music community in general, so expect to hear about that too. Some other common themes on the show are, creativity, prison, addiction/recovery, spirituality, personal authority & relationships. I hope to become a valuable part of your life through my efforts here at Back On The Grind as I bring you closer to myself & the guests I converse with.

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Help support this project & overall journey & get some member exclusives:

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

Do you have a question about something you heard in an episode?

Do you have a question about something you’re dealing with in life?

Is there a topic you think should be discussed?

Is there something you want to know about me?

Get in touch with your questions & I will do my best to address it on the show.

Email (I guarantee results)

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com

Connect on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Get coffee roasted by your host Pepe Bandit

StayFreeCoffee.com

DRINK COFFEE & STAY FREE!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Copyright: © ...Who Cares

Latest Episodes:

The Waves Of Folk Punk + Friendship & Film w/ Jak of Shibby Pictures #54 Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

Jak & Pepe delve into the evolution of folk punk, discussing its origins, the impact of key bands like Days N Daze, & the role of music videos in the genre. They explore the various waves of folk punk, the importance of documenting the scene, & the deliberate approach some contemporary artists take in their music & performances. The discussion also highlights the significance of friendships & collaborations within the DIY community, emphasizing the shared passion for music & storytelling. Jak shares insights on collaborating with musicians Matt Pless & April Hartman, his journey from filmmaking to punk culture, & the evolution of his musical tastes. The style of director Richard Linklater & his influence on underground film are also discussed.

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

What Shibby Pictures does
Jak's documentary about the overlap of baseball & punk rock.
Jak's book/travel memoir about the DIY scene
The pandemic allowed many to work on creative projects
Folk punk's different waves over the years
Jak's video for Days & Daze Misanthropic Drunken Loner discussed
Documenting the scene is important for preserving its history
Collaboration with artists like Matt Pless & April Hartman has enriched Jak's creative journey
Jak's interest in film began at a young age, leading to a lifelong passion
The transition from mainstream music to DIY punk culture
Richard Linklater's films have influenced Jak's approach to storytelling
Accessibility in filmmaking has improved over the years, similar to music
Jak prioritizes creating art over seeking attention or recognition

Connect with Jak / Shibby Pictures:

instagram.com/shibbypictures
shibby.pictures/

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MC Homeless on Connecting Rap, Folk Punk & Dogs #53 Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

MC Homeless & Pepe explore how the early days of folk punk & DIY rap were intertwined. They discuss the impact of early connections, memorable performances, & the evolution of MC Homeless as a rapper. They reflect on the importance of community in the music scene, the challenges of documentary filmmaking, the excitement of returning to music after a hiatus & collaborating with punk rock legends. The discussion also delves into the practical & emotional aspects of starting a dog walking business.

Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

DIY rap & early folk punk connections
MC Homeless' role in connecting Pepe to rappers
The importance of community in the music scene
Memorable shows often took place in unconventional venues
Documentary filmmaking challenges & rewards
The crucial role of networking as an independent musician
Collaborating with punk rock legends
How running a dog walking business allows room to express the DIY ethos
The evolution of folk punk & appreciation for its current direction
Call to collaborate with folk punk artists in the future
We play "Growing Up Punk" (feat Fishbone)

Connect with MC Homeless

Insta instagram.com/rustbelthammer/?hl=en
Spotify open.spotify.com/artist/56MtJ93o5Y6xLNKkg39ZNH?si=q8rB2J5fQOKkXg1E1aUssQ

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wired For Chaos: Harley Flanagan of Cro-Mags Unpacks His Story #52 Jun 15, 2025

Show notes

summary

In one of my favorite conversations to date, Harley Flanagan (founder of the Cro-Mags) explores his life story & the complexities of his experiences. Expect to hear about his family legacy, a chaotic childhood, the realities of growing up in a unique environment &, difficult topics such as abuse &, grief. He discusses the impact of punk rock in Ireland, his introduction to skinhead culture, & how he brought that identity back to America. Harley reflects on the early punk scene & the evolution of his own music, leading to the formation of Cro-Mags, who changed the entire movement. He shares his tumultuous journey through addiction, fatherhood, & personal growth. In a passionate plea against suicide, Harley emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of adversity & the value of life, encouraging listeners to embrace the unknown & not give up, no matter how tough things get.

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

Harley's wild family history
Childhood experiences in Morocco
Hitchhiking w/ his mom as a young kid
Confronting the realities of abuse, violence & trauma
Harley expresses the challenges of dealing with grief & loss of a father he never knew
Breaking the silence around sexual abuse
Learning meditation from Alan Ginsberg
Harley's introduction to drugs at a young age
The Stimulators pivotal role in the early punk rock movement
Punk rock in Ireland
Harley's role in introducing skinhead culture to America
Skinhead history as a non-racist, punk movement, influenced by Jamaican music & culture
The Cro-Mags blended punk & metal, creating a new sound that became hardcore
The response to the Cro-Mags was initially one of shock & awe
A life-changing phone call that revealed a potential child
Kicking heroin oh his own & starting to run
Suicide & not giving up
Harley's documentary & other music documentaries

Wired For Chaos trailer - youtube.com/watch?v=yP8zCVJWl1Q

Connect w/ Harley Flanagan:

harleyflanagan.com/
instagram.com/realharleyflanagan/?hl=en

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Safe Journey w/ Mr. Michael Motorcycle (Michael Schneeweis) #51 Jun 01, 2025

Show notes

Michael Schneeweis (Mr. Michael Motorcycle / Friends In Real Life) & Pepe explore the theme of safe journeys. Pepe shares a couple of stories as metaphors for life's challenges & Michael offers his thoughts in response. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of relationships, support systems & tools in overcoming obstacles & finding safety in an unpredictable world. Themes of loneliness, the power of simple connections in changing lives, the healing nature of seeking to understand others &, the importance of journaling as a tool for problem solving also come up. The discussion then delves into the meaning behind Michael's album title 'Safe Journey' & offers a deeper understanding of several of its' songs. We close out by playing "Wheels Are Turning."

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

highlights:

Pepe shares a story about a scholar on a journey across the open sea w/ Michael
The different ways to approach critical moments in life
Finding safety to better navigate life's challenges
Mapping out solutions can help clarify options during crises
Having connections is crucial for support during tough times
We often lose sight of our resources in moments of crisis
Reaching out to others to alleviate feelings of isolation
Simple connections can have a profound impact on lives
Loneliness often stems from the inability to communicate important feelings
Seeking to understand others can be a healing process
Journaling to categorize & solve struggles
How "belonging" can lead to both positive & negative behaviors
Growth requires letting old parts of oneself die-off
We play "Wheels Are Turning"

Connect w/ Michael:

instagram.com/mr_michael_motorcycle/
mrmichaelmotorcycle.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's Another Night? w/ Apes Of The State #50 May 15, 2025

Show notes

April & Pepe delve into the themes of nostalgia, loss, & the creative process behind Apes Of The State's latest album. They discuss the personal stories that influenced the music, the collaborative nature of songwriting, & the impact of community & friendship on the artistic journey. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring loved ones in song & the challenges of navigating personal struggles while maintaining a public persona. Thoughts on living through Hurricane Sandy, the impact of changing neighborhoods &, much more. We close out playing the track "What's Another Night?"

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

Honoring parents in music
Collaboration & its powerful results
Channelling The Smashing Pumpkins when writing music
Touring while grieving a close friend
Songwriting can be a therapeutic outlet for pain
What songs become "anthems"
Meeting punk rockers in rehab
Being viewed as "the strong friend"
Experiences from older generations can provide valuable wisdom
Friendships can dissolve over time, simply due to life changes
Thoughts on nostalgia
Musical references heard throughout the album
We play What's Another Night?

Connect w/ Apes Of The State:

instagram.com/apesofthestate/
apesofthestate.com/

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring Liminal Spaces w/ Myles Bullen #49 May 01, 2025

Show notes

Answering questions submitted by fans & other musicians, Myles Bullen explores their latest album with Pepe Bandit. Myles reveals an unknown history to Pepe that has secretly connected them both for over 15 years. Themes of connection, community & cathartic music are also brought up. Myles discusses the evolution of their music, particularly the transition from hip-hop to a more folk punk sound. They share insights on the creative process behind their latest album, the importance of vulnerability in performance, and the personal significance of the album's themes. The discussion also touches on the challenges of solitude, the joy of artistic collaboration, and the deep connections formed through music. Questions & comments from the entire Friends In Real Life lineup, Folk Punk Dad, Eric King & more!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

A word from Eric King
Making music to connect deeply with those who have experienced hardship
Why Eric King intimidated Myles
Why Myles intimidated Pepe
The connection the audience feels at a live show w/ Myles
Reflections on the album artwork & its personal meaning
The album creates a feeling of communal sharing and celebration
How performing in folk punk spaces has been life-changing & career-saving for Myles
The minimalist approach in the album challenges Myles to be more vulnerable
The names of the fish on the album cover are a tribute to friends lost

Connect w/ Myles Bullen

instagram.com/beatboxpoet/
mylesbullen.com/

Order a copy of Liminal Spaces by Myles Bullen

Back On The Grind Records - Get DIY, Folk Punk Music & merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Last Circus - Four Movies w/ Spoken Nerd (pt. 2) #48 Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

In part two of the 4 movies series, Spoken Nerd talks with Pepe Bandit about The Last Circus. A film they both loved so much it got its own episode dedicated to it. This is one of Pepe's all time favorite movies...Tune in to see what the hype is all about!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

The Last Circus - youtube.com/watch?v=fDhw367f9oI
Balada Triste De Trompeta - RAPHAEL youtube.com/watch?v=DWnmzagelp8

Check out our previous picks from episode #46:

Beast Of The Southern Wild - youtube.com/watch?v=pvqZzSMIZa0
Accion Mutante - youtube.com/watch?v=jMZA9a_jx3Q
The Substance - youtube.com/watch?v=LNlrGhBpYjc

Connect with Spoken Nerd

instagram.com/spokennerd/
open.spotify.com/artist/2CwUmIybp6G0dqkZvlfB2D?si=pUv_fB6NStCabpsc0HDdSQ

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crazy & The Brains on Facing Criticism, Being Less Judgmental & Living Life In A Fearless Way #47 Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

"I try to live my life in a fearless way"

Christoph Jesus of Crazy & The Brains, shares his journey as an artist, recalling experiences performing with various bands, the differences between opening & headlining shows, & the challenges of facing criticism. He emphasizes the importance of artistic freedom & the essence of punk rock, which he believes is rooted in intention & energy rather than strict musical boundaries. Christoph & Pepe explore the profound impact of family relationships, loss, & grief on creativity. The conversation also delves into cultural influences, particularly in film & music, through authentic storytelling as art. We close out the conversation playing the song "Punk Rocker" by Crazy & The Brains.

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

Christoph values learning from every performance
Opening for respected bands is a significant opportunity for growth
Criticism can be a challenge, but it can also motivate you
Being contacted by Iggy Pop
Punk rock is about intention & breaking boundaries
Artistic expression should be fearless & authentic
The value of having positive family relations
Loss can significantly influence artistic expression & creativity
Exploring grief further
Authentic storytelling in art is often overshadowed by commercial interests
Cultural consumption should be approached with a critical eye for authenticity
We play "Punk Rocker" by Crazy & The Brains

Connect with Crazy And The Brains

Spotify open.spotify.com/artist/4qNUloovyPeo5wXRKRYFVD?si=Ahv-rcIAQiGJ7zdgjCymbw
instagram.com/crazyandthebrains/
crazyandthebrains.net/

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Four Movies w/ Spoken Nerd (pt. 1) Beast Of The Southern Wild, Accion Mutante, The Substance #46 Mar 15, 2025

Show notes

Spoken Nerd & Pepe Bandit each pick two movies for the other to watch & then discuss with you. This episode explores 3 of those films, Beast Of The Southern Wild, Accion Mutante, & The Substance. Check out the movie previews (linked below.)

Then in part 2 of this series, they dedicate the entire episode to The Last Circus (you might want to watch it before it airs on April 15th.) We close out the episode playing a track by Spoken Nerd!

Enjoy!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

Beast Of The Southern Wild - youtube.com/watch?v=pvqZzSMIZa0
Accion Mutante - youtube.com/watch?v=jMZA9a_jx3Q
The Substance - youtube.com/watch?v=LNlrGhBpYjc
We play Secret Door To The mall by Spoken Nerd feat. Negro Justice
The Last Circus - youtube.com/watch?v=fDhw367f9oI (discussed in upcoming episode #48)

Connect with Spoken Nerd

instagram.com/spokennerd/
open.spotify.com/artist/2CwUmIybp6G0dqkZvlfB2D?si=pUv_fB6NStCabpsc0HDdSQ
ghettoblastermagazine.com/category/film/

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Taxpayers - Nobody Is A Lost Cause #45 Mar 01, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Rob & Noah from TheTaxpayers discuss their journey back to music after nearly a decade without a new album. They explore the themes of their upcoming release 'Circle Breaker', including trauma, loss, & the hope that follows. The band reflects on the resurgence of interest in their music, particularly through platforms like TikTok, & compares their past, more DIY shows to their recent performances, noting the differences in venue dynamics & audience engagement. Along with Pepe, they delve into topics like hot sauce, the bonds formed during challenging times & personal stories about forgiveness & redemption, emphasizing that no one is beyond hope. The discussion also touches on touring in Australia & the unique experiences there. The conversation wraps up delving into the nature of reality & the intriguing concept of Bigfoot & UFOs, suggesting a deeper spiritual connection to such phenomena.

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

The theme of circles on their upcoming album Circle Breaker
Unexpected TicToc fame
Shows then & now
Thoughts on sound checks
Noah & Rob give Pepe suggestions of what his potential venue should offer
Alcohol Vs. no alcohol in venues
The importance of inclusive, all ages spaces for music
Making hot sauce at home & in prison
Time in Tasmania
Radical forgiveness & redemption
Losing friends to suicide
Rob discusses the duality of people who can be both generous & troubled
The impact of simple gestures can save lives, as shared by Pepe
The discussion on Bigfoot & UFOs leads to deeper questions about reality & perception

Connect with The Taxpayers

instagram.com/the_taxpayers/
thetaxpayersband.com

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

StayFreeCoffee.com

Back On The Grind Records - For DIY, Folk Punk, Rap & Merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Follow the podcast on Instagram

instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

Share your favorite episode with a friend or two who might enjoy it.
Leave a rating / review. This helps me get access to the guest you want to hear from & allows the show to reach & support more folks like you :)

Stay Free,

Pepe Bandit

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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