
The Punk Rock MBA
Finn Mckenty of The Punk Rock MBA YouTube channel interviews the best and brightest people in the music industry. Past guests include Anthony Fantano, Avenged Sevenfold, Fronz (Attila), Caleb Shomo (Beartooth), Of Mice & Men, Fear Factory, Spiritbox, and many more.
Latest episodes

May 7, 2021 • 54min
Standing Out In A Crowded Industry
Matt Halpern, a talented drummer known for his innovative approach to music, shares his insights on standing out in a crowded creative industry. He emphasizes the power of authenticity and personal branding to carve out a unique identity. The discussion covers the importance of specialization and how focusing on a niche can lead to greater recognition. Halpern also highlights the necessity of patience and persistence in pursuing creative goals, along with effective strategies for branding and marketing within specialized fields.

May 3, 2021 • 1h 5min
Michael Montoya (Winds Of Plague)
Michael Montoya, known as Morgoth Beatz and guitarist for Winds Of Plague, shares his musical journey from deathcore to collaborating with hip-hop legends like Lil Xan and Juice Wrld. He discusses the importance of genuine networking in the industry, emphasizing authentic relationships over aggressive tactics. Michael also highlights the blending of metal and hip-hop, detailing how personal growth and adaptability have shaped his sound. Tune in to hear insights on studio collaboration and the fun of experimenting across genres!

Apr 30, 2021 • 15min
You Don't Have To Be Smart To Make Money
Discover the importance of taking action over perfection when it comes to business success. The hosts emphasize that practical experience trumps theoretical knowledge, urging listeners to stop overthinking and start hustling. They share personal insights from a transformative convention, highlighting how even experts learn from mistakes. This motivational discussion encourages everyone to embrace their dreams and turn passions into profit by focusing on doing rather than just planning.

Apr 26, 2021 • 56min
Anthony Vincent (YouTuber)
Anthony Vincent, a talented musician and YouTuber known for his channel originally called 10 Second Songs, discusses his journey of rebranding to his own name. He shares insights on how negative titles and thumbnails can boost views and the creative risks he takes in his content. The conversation dives into maintaining authenticity while balancing audience expectations and the importance of experimenting with original music. Anthony reflects on his evolution in the digital space and the challenges of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.

Apr 23, 2021 • 56min
How to Get Press Coverage for Your Work!
Learn how to land press coverage that can elevate your creative work! Discover the four essential steps to being newsworthy. Understand when hiring a PR firm is truly beneficial, and explore effective media outreach techniques. Get insider hacks that simplify the process like never before. Building genuine relationships with journalists is key, and personalizing your approach can make a big impact. Plus, delve into the value of advertising and how to effectively navigate the media landscape.

Apr 19, 2021 • 50min
Ash Avildsen (Sumerian Records, "Paradise City")
Ash Avildsen, filmmaker and founder of Sumerian Records, shares his journey from the metalcore scene to the world of film, particularly his work on 'Paradise City.' He discusses the intricate roles of producers versus executive producers and dives into the unique challenges faced in monetizing streaming content. Ash also reflects on navigating ambition and fear, and the necessity of balancing personal and professional passions. Tune in for insights on authenticity in casting and the transformative impact of technology in the creative industries.

Apr 16, 2021 • 21min
Things You Don't Know About Me
Reaching 300,000 YouTube subscribers sparks a reflection on community support and authenticity. The host shares a journey of growth, from a background in product design to insights on balancing creativity with commercial success. Personal stories reveal how experiences shaped their path, particularly the influence of family. Emphasis is placed on embracing honesty to foster connections and inspire creativity. The episode also highlights standout YouTube channels in punk and rock, encouraging listeners to engage and support fellow creators.

Apr 12, 2021 • 54min
guccihighwaters
Join a candid conversation with guccihighwaters as he reflects on his journey from SoundCloud to signing with Epitaph. Discover how breaking down songs has shaped his artistry. Hear about his transition from Ireland to Long Island, and the clash of cultures that influenced his sound. The discussion touches on the emotional depth in music, from country to hip-hop, and the challenges of self-promotion in today's crowded music scene. It's a raw and insightful exploration of navigating adulthood in the creative industry.

Apr 9, 2021 • 33min
90s Hardcore and More with Danny Diablo
Finn McKenty, a music interviewer and YouTuber, joins Danny Diablo and Jay for a deep dive into 90s hardcore and zine culture. They discuss the origins of McKenty's YouTube channel and the creative process behind selecting topics for his videos. The trio reflects on the evolution of punk, comparing past experiences with modern music scenes. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of documenting overlooked punk narratives and balancing personal passion with content creation in today's digital landscape.

Apr 5, 2021 • 50min
Craig Mabbitt (Escape the Fate)
Craig Mabbitt, lead singer of Escape the Fate, shares his journey from party animal to sobriety, revealing the personal growth that comes with change. He discusses the balance of Twitch streaming and touring, and whether fans will embrace a more positive sound from the band. The conversation dives into the challenges of addiction in the music industry and highlights the importance of community support. Mabbitt also reflects on mental health and accountability, offering insights into his transformative experience while engaging with fans in a virtual space.