Back On The Grind
by Pepe Bandit
A podcast for people who found meaning the hard way, where we explore life, music, and the stories that bring us closer. I’m Pepe Bandit: DIY label owner, coffee roaster, Jungian coach, and folk punk felon. I’ve spent my life in the folk punk and DIY underground, and I’ve spent time in prison. Now I sit down with musicians, artists, and people rebuilding their lives for honest, unpolished conversations about what we’ve lost, what we’ve learned, and what we’re still working out. Expect interviews and personal stories on folkpunk, prison, addiction and recovery, spirituality, Jungian psychology, relationships, and personal authority: taking responsibility for your own life. Some past guests include Lomes of Pigeon Pit, Pat (The Bunny) of Friends In Real Life, April of Apes Of The State, Ceschi of Codefendants, The Taxpayers and Jeffrey Lewis. There’s no reason to do this alone. We can learn from each other, survive our failures, and celebrate the wins when we
Episodes
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Art, Nature & the Friends Who Shape Us w/ Michael Crigler #83
Michael Crigler is an artist behind much of the artwork for DIY Bandits, Back On The Grind Records, Stay Free Coffee and other projects I worked on. He's also a longtime, dear friend and mentor. We start with how a conversation about album art turned into a friendship, including a phone call back...
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Bonus Episode - Friendships After Sobriety w/ Early of Recovery Demystified
A short bonus episode in the middle of the friendship series. Early is an addiction recovery coach and host of the Recovery Demystified podcast, they speak directly to anyone questioning their relationship to substances and wondering what social life looks like beyond the bar. They acknowledge…
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Understanding Friendship Pt.1 w/ Folk Punk Dad & Pepe Bandit #82
In this conversation, Pepe Bandit and Folk Punk Dad explore the multifaceted nature of friendship, discussing its importance, the challenges of making friends, and the dynamics that evolve over time. They delve into the impact of school environments on friendship formation, the role of alcohol in...
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Running, Magic, DIY Music & Coffee Roasting w/ John Cozz #81
Pepe Bandit sits down with fellow coffee roaster and DIY lifer John Cozz of Cozz Coffee for a wide-ranging conversation on running, magic, and lessons learned. They trace parallel paths through coffee roasting and DIY music — Pat the Bunny, Jeffrey Lewis — and the value of just knocking on doors…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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...
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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...
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COFFEE BREAK - April Hartman (of Apes Of The State) on Fear & Sobriety
Todays COFFEE BREAK features April Hartman of Apes of the State discussing fear & sobriety. This clip originally aired in episode #1 Apes of the State On facing Fear (link below) Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit: stayfreecoffee.com Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods...
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My Friends In Crime w/ Brook Pridemore #62
In this conversation, Brook Pridemore discusses their latest single My Friends In Crime & the more collaborative & community-focused approach in their upcoming album Only I Can Prevent Forest Fires. Brook offers thoughts on Pat (Friends In Real Life / formerly Pat The Bunny) & April (Apes Of The...
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Q&A Pt.2 Finding "The One," Books, Friends w/Addiction & depression, Renegade Shows + Mike Wilson & more #61
Part 2 of a listener Q&A where Pepe dives deep into questions about passion, important books, relationships, supporting friends, setting up DIY shows and more, plus a cameo by musician Mike Wilson (who creates solo music and performs in Harley Poe). Support the podcast to get bonus episodes &…
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Jeffrey Lewis On Sniffing Records, Streaming Music, The Story Behind His Band w/ Kimya Dawson & More #60
Anti-folk legend, Jeffrey Lewis shares insights on sniffing records, his experience with the ever evolving music industry & streaming, & the secret impact of Donovan. Also hear about the unique connection between Jim Morrison's father & the start of the Vietnam War, & the history behind the band...
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Q&A Pt.1 with Eric King, A Day Without Love & Justin Arena (prisoner support, music recs, finding folk punk friends, folk punk clothing & more!) #59
Pepe brings on friends Eric King (former political prisoner), Brian Walker (A Day Without Love) & Justin Arena (musician/Together Press) to answer questions listeners sent in. Also, a bunch of songs get sampled throughout the episode. Be sure to check below for links to Pepe's playlists & the...
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Living A More Enjoyable Life Through Improv w/ Folk Punk Dad #58
I was really surprised by this conversation as Folk Punk Dad helped me see the many areas my life was already embracing improv. From a stage mishap & heartfelt moment that led to an unexpected audience connection at a Friends In Real Life show, to playing with my kid before I entered prison, to...
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Having 10+ Years In The Scene, Social Media, Streaming & Growing Veggies w/ Jake McKelvie #57
Jake McKelvie explores his evolution as a musician, the concept of being a 'scene elder' &, thoughts on performing in various types of venues. He reflects on the role of social media in promoting music & shares insights into his creative process, particularly regarding lyricism. The complexities…
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COFFEE BREAK - Mike Wilson (of Harley Poe) Talks About Pissing For The Man
Todays COFFEE BREAK features Mike Wilson of Harley Poe. He discusses pissing for authority figures & other fun stuff too. Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit: stayfreecoffee.com/discount/SHIPFREE Listen to the full episode - Mike Wilson of Harley Poe on opening & closing a record shop & the DIY…
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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…
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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...
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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…
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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...
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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…
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Safe Journey w/ Mr. Michael Motorcycle (Michael Schneeweis) #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 &…
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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...
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Exploring Liminal Spaces w/ Myles Bullen #49
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...
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The Last Circus - Four Movies w/ Spoken Nerd (pt. 2) #48
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 +...
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Crazy & The Brains on Facing Criticism, Being Less Judgmental & Living Life In A Fearless Way #47
"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...
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Four Movies w/ Spoken Nerd (pt. 1) Beast Of The Southern Wild, Accion Mutante, The Substance #46
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...
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The Taxpayers - Nobody Is A Lost Cause #45
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...
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Love As Resistance Behind Bars w/ Eric King #44
In this conversation, former political prisoner Eric King shares his experience of incarceration & the profound impact of relationships during his time in prison. He discusses the journey that led him to federal prison, the challenges of maintaining connections with loved ones, & the unique bond…
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Recalling The Early Pat The Bunny / Johnny Hobo Days (part 3) w/ Brook Pridemore #43
For the final installment of our Johnny Hobo Q&A, Brook Pridemore joins Pepe to offer some more perspectives on the questions listeners sent in. They also discuss some of the general happenings of the folk punk scene from the mid to late 2000's. Enjoy! (There will be some additional Pat The Bunny...
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Friends In Real Life discussed by April (Apes Of The State) & Ceschi (Codefendants) Bonus Episode!!!
Wondering what the upcoming Friends In Real Life album will be like? Well, here's a sneak peek... The day after Pat (fka Pat The Bunny) announced he will be releasing music for the first time in 10 years, Pepe decided to chat with friends April Hartman of Apes Of The State & Julio "Ceschi" Ramos…
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Recalling The Early Pat The Bunny / Johnny Hobo Days (part 2) w/ Pepe Bandit #42
***Please take the poll in the Spotify show notes & tell us what Johnny Hobo music we should repress on vinyl*** Pepe answers questions you all sent in, largely about Pat The Bunny during the Johnny Hobo days while also reflecting on his own journey through the folk punk scene. He shares personal...
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Matt Pless on Creativity & Living Between Worlds #41
Matt Pless & Pepe explore many engaging topics. Expect to hear about music & creativity from the time of early humans to the age of social media. Matt shares his extensive journey through the music scene & his time hanging out with Pat The bunny. The discussion also touches on the challenges of...
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Recalling The Early Pat The Bunny / Johnny Hobo Days (part 1) w/ Dani Chaoflux & Mark Leonard #40
In this informative episode, Pepe takes us on a journey to revisit the early days of folk punk with a focus on Pat the Bunny (Johnny Hobo) & the DIY Bandits label that released much of his music. He enlists the support of longtime friends Dani ChaoFlux & Mark Leonard who also spent time with Pat...
About this show
A podcast for people who found meaning the hard way, where we explore life, music, and the stories that bring us closer.
I’m Pepe Bandit: DIY label owner, coffee roaster, Jungian coach, and folk punk felon. I’ve spent my life in the folk punk and DIY underground, and I’ve spent time in prison. Now I sit down with musicians, artists, and people rebuilding their lives for honest, unpolished conversations about what we’ve lost, what we’ve learned, and what we’re still working out.
Expect interviews and personal stories on folkpunk, prison, addiction and recovery, spirituality, Jungian psychology, relationships, and personal authority: taking responsibility for your own life. Some past guests include Lomes of Pigeon Pit, Pat (The Bunny) of Friends In Real Life, April of Apes Of The State, Ceschi of Codefendants, The Taxpayers and Jeffrey Lewis.
There’s no reason to do this alone. We can learn from each other, survive our failures, and celebrate the wins when we
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