Back On The Grind

Pepe Bandit

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.

  1. Coming Home To Yourself: Beyond Addiction & Mental Health Struggles w/ Jason Shiers #56

    AUG 15

    Coming Home To Yourself: Beyond Addiction & Mental Health Struggles w/ Jason Shiers #56

    In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of overcoming addiction & mental health challenges with certified Psychotherapist, Jason Shiers. From the early trauma of losing his father to battling addiction, Jason shares his transformative path to self-discovery & healing. We explore the profound insights & experiences that led him to embrace life fully, focusing on the importance of inner work & reconnecting with the Self. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-awareness, & the journey back to oneself. Discover how understanding & nurturing our inner world can lead to profound personal transformation. Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind HIGHLIGHTS: What life can offer if you "come home to yourself"What happened at age 5 that led to Jason's struggleBeing diagnosed through the psychiatric system as a childGoing from food addiction to heroine addiction by age 13Rehab didn't go deep enoughBecoming a therapist still left Jason w/ secrete addictions & feeling brokenWhat is the inner worldIncorporating what he learned into his work with clientsHelping people see what was right w/ them, not what's wrong w/ themHow internal work benefits your external relationships3 types of therapy Jason finds valuable Connect with Jason Shiers: misunderstandingsofthemind.com/Order Jason's book - amazon.com/Infinite-Recovery-Project-Intelligence-Addiction/dp/1068323302/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1D07DW0NEPWH1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dEDyZOyYjqG2ccDXQ-C37gtXf8evlAj-KRQARwrARbuteCYSTlDMSdBjv0oHFXH2DYS26sWIedws_s6XozNjzw.OLyyeatCC1RjCRpZgfUpuTGgRG0Lup4fEvyG3bB3LcU&dib_tag=se&keywords=jason+shiers&qid=1754775309&sprefix=jason+shiers%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-1 Back On The Grind Records - For Folk Punk, DIY Music & Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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.

    58 min
  2. AUG 1

    Walter Mitty & His Makeshift Orchestra - Finding A New Album & A New Self, Buried In A Cave #55

    In this episode, Walter Mitty shares his journey as an artist, discussing the origins of his name, the evolution of his music & its transformative power to forge a journey of personal reinvention. A unique twist in this journey involves the symbolic act of burying an album in a cave, representing the mystery & depth of personal transformation. We also discuss the DIY spirit in music creation, relationships with nature & surfing. Tune in to discover how music not only shapes our identities but also empowers us to redefine our lives & pursue new beginnings. Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind HIGHLIGHTS: The origin of the alias "Walter Mitty"Early days of creating music with unconventional instrumentsEmbracing challenges for developmentPersonal stories of overcoming adversity through musicReflections on the intersection of life experiences and creativityThe act of burying the album was both a creative and ritualistic endeavorCaves as a metaphor for confronting the unknown within oneselfSwamplands as a symbolic territory between death & rebirthSurfing as a connection to nature Connect w/ Walter Mitty & His Makeshift Orchestra instagram.com/walteretc/?hl=enwalteretcband.wixsite.com/mysitewalteretc.bandcamp.com/ Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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.

    53 min
  3. JUL 15

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

    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 doesJak's documentary about the overlap of baseball & punk rock.Jak's book/travel memoir about the DIY sceneThe pandemic allowed many to work on creative projectsFolk punk's different waves over the yearsJak's video for Days & Daze Misanthropic Drunken Loner discussedDocumenting the scene is important for preserving its historyCollaboration with artists like Matt Pless & April Hartman has enriched Jak's creative journeyJak's interest in film began at a young age, leading to a lifelong passionThe transition from mainstream music to DIY punk cultureRichard Linklater's films have influenced Jak's approach to storytellingAccessibility in filmmaking has improved over the years, similar to musicJak prioritizes creating art over seeking attention or recognition Connect with Jak / Shibby Pictures: instagram.com/shibbypicturesshibby.pictures/ Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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.

    51 min
  4. JUL 1

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

    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 connectionsMC Homeless' role in connecting Pepe to rappersThe importance of community in the music sceneMemorable shows often took place in unconventional venuesDocumentary filmmaking challenges & rewardsThe crucial role of networking as an independent musicianCollaborating with punk rock legendsHow running a dog walking business allows room to express the DIY ethosThe evolution of folk punk & appreciation for its current directionCall to collaborate with folk punk artists in the futureWe play "Growing Up Punk" (feat Fishbone) Connect with MC Homeless Insta instagram.com/rustbelthammer/?hl=enSpotify open.spotify.com/artist/56MtJ93o5Y6xLNKkg39ZNH?si=q8rB2J5fQOKkXg1E1aUssQ Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Back On The Grind Records - DIY, Folk Punk Music & 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.comLeave 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.Leave a rating / review (this really helps me get access to more of the guest you want to hear from.) Stay Free, Pepe Bandit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    56 min
  5. JUN 15

    Wired For Chaos: Harley Flanagan of Cro-Mags Unpacks His Story #52

    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 historyChildhood experiences in MoroccoHitchhiking w/ his mom as a young kidConfronting the realities of abuse, violence & traumaHarley expresses the challenges of dealing with grief & loss of a father he never knewBreaking the silence around sexual abuseLearning meditation from Alan GinsbergHarley's introduction to drugs at a young ageThe Stimulators pivotal role in the early punk rock movementPunk rock in IrelandHarley's role in introducing skinhead culture to AmericaSkinhead history as a non-racist, punk movement, influenced by Jamaican music & cultureThe Cro-Mags blended punk & metal, creating a new sound that became hardcoreThe response to the Cro-Mags was initially one of shock & aweA life-changing phone call that revealed a potential childKicking heroin oh his own & starting to runSuicide & not giving upHarley's documentary & other music documentaries Wired For Chaos trailer - youtube.com/watch?v=yP8zCVJWl1Q Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk & Music Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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 an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :) Stay Free until next time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 12m
  6. JUN 1

    Safe Journey w/ Mr. Michael Motorcycle #51

    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/ MichaelThe different ways to approach critical moments in lifeFinding safety to better navigate life's challengesMapping out solutions can help clarify options during crisesHaving connections is crucial for support during tough timesWe often lose sight of our resources in moments of crisisReaching out to others to alleviate feelings of isolationSimple connections can have a profound impact on livesLoneliness often stems from the inability to communicate important feelingsSeeking to understand others can be a healing processJournaling to categorize & solve strugglesHow "belonging" can lead to both positive & negative behaviorsGrowth requires letting old parts of oneself die-offWe play "Wheels Are Turning" Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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 an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :) Stay Free until next time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  7. MAY 15

    What's Another Night? w/ Apes Of The State #50

    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 musicCollaboration & its powerful resultsChannelling The Smashing Pumpkins when writing musicTouring while grieving a close friendSongwriting can be a therapeutic outlet for painWhat songs become "anthems"Meeting punk rockers in rehabBeing viewed as "the strong friend"Experiences from older generations can provide valuable wisdomFriendships can dissolve over time, simply due to life changesThoughts on nostalgia Musical references heard throughout the albumWe play What's Another Night? Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch: backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe) StayFreeCoffee.com Follow the podcast on Instagram instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.comLeave 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 an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
4.9
out of 5
45 Ratings

About

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.

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