
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

Dec 14, 2020 • 1h 10min
Allison Hagendorf (Global Head of Rock at Spotify)
In this engaging conversation, Allison Hagendorf, Global Head of Rock at Spotify and host of "Rock This," shares her unique journey in the music industry. She discusses the evolution of rock music, the shifts in music consumption, and the importance of supporting undiscovered artists. Allison also reflects on the nostalgic influence of icons like Jack White and the changing dynamics between artists and fans in the digital age. With insights on community and innovation in the rock scene, she paints a vibrant picture of the genre's future.

Dec 11, 2020 • 20min
What Makes a Successful Podcast?
Discover the secrets to launching a successful podcast! Learn how word of mouth can amplify your reach and why production quality matters. Explore the balance between structured interviews and spontaneous conversation. Uncover social media strategies that can boost engagement and help you connect with your audience. Plus, find out how to wrap up your content and foster a strong community through reviews and newsletters. Perfect for aspiring podcasters seeking insights and inspiration!

Dec 7, 2020 • 1h 18min
Andre Fili (UFC Fighter)
Finn chats with Andre Fili, a UFC fighter known for his intense fighting style and love for music. They dive into how Andre's passion for combat sports merged with his music interests, highlighting his surreal experiences in crowd-less fights. Andre shares his journey from a novice to a mentor in Team Alpha Male, emphasizing the importance of channeling emotions positively. With humorous anecdotes about small-town life and teenage brawls, their conversation captures the spirit of following dreams, personal growth, and the shared culture of music and fighting.

Dec 4, 2020 • 15min
I Need to Make Some Changes
The speaker reflects on their content creation journey, sharing a shift towards short video essays on music. They emphasize the importance of adaptability and personal growth, moving away from nostalgia-driven topics. The discussion highlights redefining authenticity in music branding, focusing on genuine connections with the audience. Insights on fostering loyalty over mere view counts are shared, underscoring the role of storytelling in content. The excitement for upcoming transformations in their creative process invites audience participation and feedback.

Nov 30, 2020 • 1h 4min
Matt Saincome (The Hard Times, Outvoice)
Matt Saincome, co-founder of The Hard Times and Outvoice, dives into the world of media entrepreneurship. He shares the unique challenges of running a satire website, including navigating online backlash and regulatory hurdles. Saincome discusses the importance of equity for motivating creatives, as well as balancing profit with ethical considerations. He emphasizes networking and mentorship in fostering creativity within the punk spirit and how it fuels business growth. His insights bridge the gap between artistry and entrepreneurship, making it a must-listen for aspiring founders.

Nov 27, 2020 • 25min
GETTING PUNCHED, MR. TRAPT'S MELTDOWN & MY FAVORITE SHOWS | Viewer comments 015
This episode dives into viewer comments, tackling everything from Trapt's Chris Taylor Brown to Billie Eilish's livestream pricing. Hear tales of getting suckerpunched at a New Found Glory show and ponder the classification of bands like Crystal Lake and Polaris. The host shares metalcore recommendations, favorite Pokémon, and even touches on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The blend of humor, nostalgia, and music insights keeps the conversation lively and engaging!

Nov 24, 2020 • 1h 10min
Aaron Marshall (Intervals)
Aaron Marshall, the talented musician and founder of Intervals, shares his insights into the music business. He discusses innovative revenue streams and the financial realities of touring, revealing its unpredictability. The conversation highlights the resilience required in today's music landscape, especially during the challenges posed by the pandemic. Listeners will appreciate Marshall's emphasis on authenticity in artistry, his strategies for promoting albums under uncertain conditions, and the importance of adapting to changing industry dynamics.

Nov 20, 2020 • 16min
Mental health in music (Deftones guitarist is a flat earther)
Deftones guitarist Stephen Carpenter's controversial views on flat Earth and vaccines spark discussions about mental health in the music industry. The podcast delves into the pressures artists face, leading to addiction and dysfunction, while questioning the impact of fan expectations. It examines the paradox of personal pain fueling artistic expression, referencing icons like Kurt Cobain. Finally, it emphasizes the need for community support to help navigate these challenges, urging a collective responsibility among fans and industry players.

Nov 16, 2020 • 1h 3min
Hoya (Madball)
Hoya from Madball dives into the band's influential journey through the hardcore scene, revealing how it has changed over the decades. He shares insights on the pandemic's impact on live music and the struggles of touring. Listeners will enjoy anecdotes about the vibrant New York hardcore scene and the cultural significance of venues and zines. The conversation also touches on building identity within the genre, addressing misconceptions, and the rise of digital streaming, highlighting the essence of community in hardcore music.

Nov 13, 2020 • 16min
The Corey Taylor Effect
The discussion kicks off with the impact of the 'Corey Taylor Effect' on emerging artists and major brands alike. Strategies for promoting unique talents like Fish Narc and Cold Hart are highlighted, along with the debate on whether influencers should support other creatives. The conversation navigates the challenges of gaining attention in a saturated music scene, emphasizing the need for compelling branding. Thought-provoking examples of successful music personas are shared, showcasing how to stand out and connect with audiences effectively.