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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

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StayFreeCoffee.com

DRINK COFFEE & STAY FREE!

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Thursday · 11 min
Bonus Episode: Jesse Sendejas (Days N' Days / Escape From the Zoo) On 1 Year Sober & New Solo Music!!!
To honor Jesse's one year of sobriety today, I invited him on the pod for a quick bonus episode. We talk about what this milestone means to him and some new comforts he gained as a result. Jesse's also been writing new solo music — and he's teaming up with Back On The Grind Records to bring it to vinyl. We close the episode out with a track from the upcoming album. Send some love to Jesse for making it this far. This community thrives the more we take care of each other ❤️ Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods (you can join for FREE) patreon.com/BackontheGrind 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.
S4 · E80
Tuesday · 58 min
Going On Your First DIY Tour w/ Tape And Tears #80
Tape and Tears join Pepe Bandit to talk about their first DIY tour & everything that comes with learning it on the fly, from forgetting to count merch money until they were nearly out of gas, to the venues that never mentioned how or when they'd get paid. They dig into the community that carried them through it, from bands like Swamp Rats letting them crash on couches & jamming Mischief Brew songs in the living room, to the mentorship or generosity of Mike Wilson (from Harley Poe) & other people from the folk punk scene at large. The conversation opens into the origins of the band itself — Gilliana's mental health crisis while studying abroad in Berlin, the queer folk punk community there that pulled her back toward the music, & how "Tape and Tears" became both a band name & a way of holding pain & progress together. They close with practical tour wisdom (pack a cooler, eat before you're hangry) & a shared belief that showing up with heart matters more than sounding polished. Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods (there’s a join for FREE option) • patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Tape And Tears: instagram.com/tapeandtears tapeandtears.bandcamp.com/music tapeandtears.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.
S4 · E79
September 1 · 54 min
The Tragedy Of The Commons w/ Ruen #79
In this episode, Pepe Bandit talks with members of the band Ruen. They start with fire — how a century of replacing Portugal's natural forests with pine and eucalyptus monoculture has made wildfire season a recurring catastrophe across southern Europe — then dig into the punk, DIY, & squat subcultures of Portugal & the Netherlands. The rest of the episode is dedicated to their new concept album, The Tragedy of the Commons. You'll hear samples of songs as they explore land rights, enclosure &, resistance — including the present-day fight against lithium mining in Boticas — along with the influence of books like When the Wolves Howl & Re-Enchanting the World. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods (there's a join for FREE option) •patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Ruen: instagram.com/weare_ruen weareruen.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.
S4 · E78
August 15 · 1 hr 10 min
Jimmy of The Looms Reflects on the Pigeon Pit Episode (personal authority, DIY shows, spirituality & much more) #78
Jimmy of The Looms joins Pepe to revisit personal authority, DIY shows, and spirituality from the earlier Lomes of Pigeon Pit episode. From there, they open into new territory: including how the things that upset us most in others are often things we haven't dealt with ourselves, the pull toward revenge instead of actually improving things, why anarchism might work at the level of a house show but strains under mass civilization, Jimmy's own path through Buddhism and monastery life, and a back-and-forth on Spinoza's determinism and what's left of a person once every external identity is stripped away. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods •patreon.com/BackontheGrind connect with The Looms: instagram.com/theloomsband/ thelooms.band/ thelooms.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.
S4 · E77
August 1 · 1 hr 6 min
Finding Hope w/ Yell At God #77
Yell At God — the Philly-based folk punk band sits down with Pepe Bandit for a deep dive into hope. First they start with the dichotomy of touring: the exhaustion of the road paired with the explosive connection of a live show. From there the conversation opens into hope itself — why it's an actionable practice rather than a feeling you either have or don't, how social media can drain it, and why hopelessness and complacency are closer cousins than they seem. The band also works through a question passed along from a previous guest, Lomes of Pigeon Pit, about whether hope can distract from other opportunities/the present. The conversation closes with concrete, low-stakes ways to rebuild a sense of agency: text a friend, plan a show even if five people come, go to the library, buy the next person's coffee. We close out playing Folk Punk Birthday Song. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods •patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Yell At God instagram.com/yell_at_god/ linktr.ee/yellatgod 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.
S4 · E76
July 15 · 58 min
Lomes of Pigeon Pit — The Alchemy Of Song Writing, Personal Authority, LSD, Spiritual Anarchism & DIY Shows #76
Lomes of Pigeon Pit, joins Pepe Bandit for an unguarded conversation that starts with songwriting as alchemy — puking out the fucked-up parts of the world and finding gold in the filth — and follows it into personal authority forged through hardship, acid trips, and a philosophy of spiritual anarchism built on empathy. They discuss the work of transmuting hope and gratitude into action, the magic of DIY shows and what gets lost and gained when a band outgrows the basements it started in. The conversation also turns toward the strange weight of being someone strangers cry in front of, and what it means to carry that without claiming credit for someone else's survival. Pepe shares why this one is personal for him — his own kid found Lomes's music during the years he was locked up, long before the two of them ever met. We close out playing the Pigeon Pit song "Thread The Needle." Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods • patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Pigeon Pit: linktr.ee/pigeonpit (for show tickets and more) instagram.com/pigeon.pit/?hl=en pigeonpit.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.
S4 · E75
July 1 · 1 hr 5 min
Amy of Evil Robot Us' — Folk Punk, Libraries, & the Liberation of Children #75
Amy fronted Evil Robot Us' a DIY folk punk band out of Buffalo that shared its first bill with Against Me! and later toured and recorded with Erik Petersen — but this story follows where that punk ethic took her next: ten years as a children's librarian, a decade as a professional aerialist and storyteller, and now grad school to become a therapist for kids and families. Pepe and Amy trace the thread connecting it all - while swapping stories from the early 2000s scene, talking through parenting during incarceration, raising a neurodivergent kid, recovering from long COVID, and closing by honoring Erik Petersen's lasting influence. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind For more Evil Robot Us' or to connect with Amy evilrobotus.bandcamp.com/music amykgodfrey.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.
S4 · E74
June 15 · 56 min
Queer Rap & The Cancel Culture Blues w/Chris Conde #74
Pepe Bandit & Chris Conde discuss queer identity & expression through music. Chris addresses the discomforts that can arise in early personal life & performances around this subject. They explore censorship & cancel culture & the importance of growth within the community. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open communication & understanding while confronting these issues. They delve into the complexities of accountability, redemption, & the importance of doing the work after past mistakes. The difficulties of understanding allegations in context, the delicate balance of forgiveness & the challenges of navigating truth & consent are also explored. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for truly open dialogue in fostering healing & understanding. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect w/ Chris Conde: instagram.com/conde_nyc/ chrisconde.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.
June 9 · 53 min
Bonus Episode - Stoop Fest!!! Three Different Views
A bonus episode that explores 3 different perspectives (audience member / band / organizer)from this years STOOP FEST! We play Pathétique by Frog Legs at the end. First Interview - Greg Bee (audience member) Second Interview - Frog Legs (band) Third Interview - Willow (organizer) stoopfest.org instagram.com/froglegspgh/ froglegsband.com/ Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind 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 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.
S4 · E73
June 1 · 1 hr 14 min
Addiction & Recovery Q&A w/ Early Brunner of Recovery Demystified #73
*** If you need to support a friend, loved one, or yourself...You can call, text, or chat with a 988 Lifeline counselor for help during difficult moments anytime, day or night. Just dial 988 it's free & confidential. ***If you or someone you care about needs support, SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals & families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. 1-800-662-HELP (4357) In this conversation, Early Brunner of Recovery Demystified joins Pepe Bandit in responding to listener's questions about addiction & recovery. They discuss the importance of creating supportive resources for individuals struggling with substance use & emphasize the need for personalized recovery approaches. Expect to hear about the challenges of maintaining friendships during recovery, & the complexities of family dynamics when addiction is involved. Learn about the challenges of relapse, & the journey towards helping others in recovery. The conversation also delves into the critical issues of mental health, suicide, & the necessity of seeking help. Early & Pepe emphasize the need for open discussions about these topics to reduce stigma & promote healing. The song at the end is titled "Dent" and performed by Mr. Michael Motorcycle. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Recovery Demystified: recoverydemystified.com/ instagram.com/recoverydemystified/ 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.
S4 · E72
May 15 · 58 min
From Pat The Bunny to Friends In Real Life: Patrick Schneeweis & Pepe Bandit Discuss A Two Decade Musical Journey & Friendship #72
Pat almost refused to do this. Before we even hit record, he told me he had a strong feeling this interview shouldn’t happen. We gave it a shot anyway. What came out isn’t a story that is pretty & clean. It’s what it actually looks like when someone is trying to figure out their life after actively screwing parts of it up. We talk about growing up feeling isolated & out of place. Writing music while dealing with depression & not wanting to be alive. Hitchhiking with no phone, no stability, no real plan. Stealing from people who trusted you & having to sit with that. Getting sober & realizing that doesn’t fix the damage, it just means you have to face it. There’s a moment in here when we’re talking about that betrayal, & you can feel it. Not simply as a story but, as something that actually happened between two people trying to sort out the messiness. Over all it’s a conversation with two friends trying to be honest about who they were & who they’re trying to become now. If you’ve ever looked at your own life and thought, “I’ve made a mess of this”…this conversation is going to feel familiar & hopeful. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Friends In Real Life instagram.com/friendsinreallifemusic/ friendsinreallife.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.
S4 · E71
May 1 · 1 hr
From Train Hopping To Healing Trauma Through Internal Work w/ Early Brunner #71
Pepe talks to Early Brunner who shares their journey through the punk community & train hopping to exploring themes of addiction/recovery, & the quest for freedom. They discuss their experiences with the challenges of navigating friendships amidst substance use, the realities of migrant farm work & they explore ideas around internal work. Early's story is a testament to resilience & the search for identity within the punk community while navigating trauma. Expect to learn about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), the importance of emotional awareness & processing & the idea of post-traumatic growth fostering resilience & strength. In closing, Early reflects on their life living alone in a cabin, highlighting the peace & self-discovery that comes from solitude & intentional living. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Early/Recovery Demystified: instagram.com/recoverydemystified/ recoverydemystified.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.
S4 · E70
April 15 · 52 min
From Blending Genres To Exploring Existential Death In Small Town Georgia w/ Chris Casey #70
Pepe talks with Chris Casey—an innovative voice blending alternative rap with grungy rock music. Chris takes us on a musical journey from basement shows of local hardcore, screamo, and punk bands in the Savannah Georgia DIY scene and how it influenced his approach to creating authentic music of his own. He dives into the challenges of blending genres, and his lyrical themes of death, and existential reflection. Chris explains how he uses his songs to serve as a form of connection, especially for queer & trans communities or anyone facing mental health challenges or societal expectations. His openness about the emotional weight behind tracks like Filth and Boys and Girls demonstrates the power of honest storytelling in building trust and resonance. If you like genre mashups, DIY resilience, or raw lyrical storytelling—this episode is for you. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Chris Casey: instagram.com/chriiiscasey/ chriscasey.bandcamp.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.
S4 · E69
April 1 · 54 min
The Random Show w/ Mike Wilson (of Harley Poe) - Sharing The Thoughts In Our Head #69
Pepe reaches out to his buddy Mike Wilson to have a regular, friend to friend discussion as if they were't on a podcast (except they are). Expect to hear about anxiety around starting new projects, uncomfortable feelings with promoting oneself, making lots and little money, Mike's stop motion videos, the text that Mike sent that made Pepe realize we all get carried away with the thoughts in our head, avoiding the online space and being okay despite the current state of the real world. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Mike Wilson: instagram.com/p/DRYccUJjBKr/ mikewilson.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.
S4 · E68
March 15 · 52 min
The Forest Is The Trees w/ Endless Mike & The Beagle Club #68
Pepe embarks on an exploration with Endless Mike And The Beagle Club as they walk through their latest album, The Forest Is The Trees. Unlock the intimate thoughts behind a band that defies conventions—where 18-piece tours become a collective art form. Dive into the chaos and beauty of managing a constantly evolving lineup that sometimes hits 25 members, turning complexity into cohesion, every decision is rooted in a desire for authenticity, community, and artistic freedom. We break down elements of each song on their lates album. This is for you if you’re a fan of punk, folk, experimental indie, or anyone who believes that true art isn't commercialized but rooted in shared meaning and anti-capitalist spirit. EM&TBC is a band that’s been nourishing the DIY scene for over 20 years—proof that the best art grows from collaboration, and a fierce love for song. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Connect with Endless Mike And The Beagle Club instagram.com/emandthebc endlessmikeandthebeagleclub.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.
S4 · E67
March 1 · 54 min
A History Of Folk Punk & It's Connection To Anarchism w/ shugE & Pepe Bandit #67
shugE and Pepe Bandit explore the often nuanced relationship between anarchism and folk punk music, tracing their historical connections and evolution. The discussion highlights the significant role of DIY culture, info shops, Crimethinc, and influential bands like Johnny Hobo and the Freight Trains in shaping the genre. It delves into the community's practices and values, emphasizing mutual aid and collective efforts and how that shifted into and shaped the music and its style of anarchism. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of folk punk, its ongoing connection to anarchist principles and thoughts on it possibly growing too big for itself. We close out playing the older track "I Love You To Death" by Never Say Surrender, originally released on Pepe's old label DIY Bandits in the mid 2000's. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind HIGHLIGHTS: Anarchism's early roots in both folk & punk music The significant merging of radical cultures & music in the 90s How info shops served as crucial hubs for introducing anarchist culture & acoustic music Did folk punk emerge as a response to mainstream punk's commercialization Crimethinc played a pivotal role in spreading anarchist ideas in various scenes How the evolution of folk punk was influenced by the merging of multiple radical movements Did Johnny Hobo and the Freight Trains introduce anarchism to folk punk Remembering stories of anarchism showing up in the early folk punk days How the DIY economics & ethos in folk punk was born out of necessity not politics Folk punk has maintained a more inclusive & safe environment compared to electric punk Will folk punk continue to grow & get too big for itself Connect with shugE: instagram.com/shugemusic/ shugemusic.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.
S4 · E66
February 15 · 52 min
An Open Conversation About Disability & Accessibility In The Scene W/ Porch Cat #66
Pepe talks with Chan & Emily from Porch Cat to discuss their experiences with disability & accessibility within the folk punk community. They share personal stories about living with chronic illnesses, the assumptions people make about disabilities, & the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all. The discussion also touches on the role of bookers & venues in ensuring accessibility, the impact of capitalism on disability, & the need for open communication within the community. They also share insights on how to make shows more accessible for everyone. In closing, we play the unreleased track "Walking on knives" from Porch Cat's upcoming album. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind Expect to learn: How disability is often invisible & misunderstood Why everyone will experience disability at some point in life Why open communication is key to understanding accessibility needs What bookers & promoters can do to better work with disabled musicians & fans How the DIY scene can do better in terms of inclusivity The unique challenges touring poses for disabled musicians Connect w/ Porch Cat: instagram.com/porchcat.music/?hl=en porchcat.org/ 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.
S4 · E65
February 1 · 58 min
From The Trail Of Tears To Touring All 50 States w/ A Day Without Love #65
Pepe talks to A day Without Love (Brian Walker) who shares the profound impact of personal history, particularly the Trail Of Tears & its connection to the 50-state tour he completed. Brian explores how witnessing & acknowledging existing community strengths can foster genuine connections. We also discuss the challenges & triumphs of organizing within the music world, the importance of self-care on the road & the need to focus on collaboration over competition within the DIY/folk punk community. Join us for an inspiring conversation about building meaningful communities & the role of music in bridging divides across the country. We close out playing the track "Keyboard Warrior" by A Day Without Love. Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind HIGHLIGHTS: Brian's family legacy & the Trail Of Tears connection Breaking family curses to honor his Grandfather Moving from anxiety & fear, to actually touring all 50 states Choosing to share vulnerably after his Grandfather died Booking logistics, DIY vs. having an agent Differences & similarities Brian saw in DIY communities across the U.S. Connecting with people from different political/economic backgrounds The prevalence of fear in our lives leading to bigotry Highlights from visiting all 50 states Brian offers Pepe tips on visiting New Orleans & Denver "Keyboard Warrior" is played Listen to & connect with A Day Without Love open.spotify.com/artist/09JoYdZo9cekYMqyN1bsGD?si=KQyeEW0XS_-9kITM0dh0pw adaywithoutlove.com/ adaywithoutlove.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.
S4 · E64
January 15 · 48 min
Pepe Bandit Gets Interviewed: Folk Punk, Community, DIY Bandits, Prison, Spirituality & Future Plans #64
Things get flipped in this conversation & Pepe gets interviewed. He explores the journey of the DIY Bandits, a record label that emerged from personal struggles & a desire to create community through music. The discussion covers Pepe's unique work of blending folk punk & hip hop, & the challenges he faced, including being poor while raising a family, rejection from some of the folk punk community & his eventual incarceration. Pepe reflects on the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions & the role of music & spirituality as an outlet during difficult times. Hear about upcoming music & book releases & the conversation closes on the evolution of the folk punk community, its current state & its potential going forward. **This interview was conducted by Jarda (Smažená pikantní škeble) for the online Czech magazine Alarm. We play a song of their's at the end. There's links below to the print version if you want to read it or see some pictures of me since I don't post myself online much :) Support the podcast & get bonus episodes & goods patreon.com/BackontheGrind HIGHLIGHTS: DIY Bandits started as a response to personal struggles Bridging genres was a key focus from the beginning Community engagement was essential to the label's mission The label was rooted in working-class experiences Incarceration led to significant personal reflections The importance of taking responsibility for one's actions Support from family & community was crucial during confinement Spirituality deepened through Pepe's solitary experiences The journey of writing a book was initially daunting The folk punk community is evolving & becoming more inclusive The importance of giving back to the community is emphasized Pepe feels a sense of responsibility to share his journey Song "Going Postal" by Smažená pikantní škeble Support Jarda (Smažená pikantní škeble) who arranged & conducted this interview: smazenapikantniskeble.bandcamp.com/music Read the interview (english) medium.com/@michljarda/what-supports-you-when-theres-no-one-left-to-support-you-bab448d386d8 Read the interview (czech) denikalarm.cz/2025/10/folk-punk-pro-me-vzdycky-znamenal-neco-vic-nez-jen-hudbu-rika-pepe-bandit/ 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.
S4 · E63
January 1 · 1 hr 4 min
Scott of Bridge City Sinners & his wife Becky on Trainhopping, Friendship, Love & Loss #63
In this conversation, Pepe, Scott, & Becky explore the culture of trainhopping, & the connections formed through shared experiences. Scott recounts his journey into the world of trainhopping, influenced by his friend Tomas, while Becky shares her perspective on joining this lifestyle. The discussion highlights the joy of community, the challenges of societal discrimination, & the deep bonds formed through shared adventures. In this conversation, Scott & Becky delve into themes of living freely, love, loss, & the importance of cherishing memories, particularly of their friend Tomas, who embodied the spirit of freedom & connection. Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods (there's even a FREE option) patreon.com/BackontheGrind takeaways How Scott got introduced to trainhopping Scott's reconnection with Tomas Connecting over punk music in high school How Becky met Scott Scott's first train with Tomas Becky meets Tomas Tomas as a human being Becky reflects on the traveller community Music's ability to bridge different cultures Embracing conflict & challenging societal norms Scott's difficulty talking about Tomas & Profane Sass Piggly Wiggly story Support, love & respect from family City Of The Rails podcast A tragic fire in a New Orleans squat The potential consequences of trainhopping show up Fond memories of Tomas Song: Mexican Trains by Profane Sass Connect with Scott's projects Bridge City Sinners / Profane Sass / Flail Records: instagram.com/bridgecitysinners/ instagram.com/flail_records/ open.spotify.com/artist/1U68fpoBsx5HK1RSvr7yZQ?si=K77gP-lMQXyyW9k8Wmo2IQ 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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