The Punk Rock MBA

Amos Williams, bassist for the progressive metal band TesseracT, shares insights about their new album, "War Of Being." He discusses the fusion of visuals and storytelling in concept albums, emphasizing their role in enhancing emotional narratives. The conversation delves into the importance of authenticity in songwriting and the unique challenges faced by artists within the progressive metal genre. Amos also touches on personal experiences with autism and how they influence creative identities, shaping artistic freedom amid societal expectations.

Finn Mckenty dives into the balance of ambition and life's demands, sharing personal stories of sacrifice. He humorously explores British cultural quirks and accents, dissecting terms like 'chav' and 'scouser'. Through anecdotes, the importance of personal priorities like family and health shines through. There’s plenty of light-hearted banter on societal norms, regional identities, and even the quirks of British and American accents. It's a fun mix of introspection, humor, and cultural exploration!

Mike Herrera, the energetic lead vocalist and bassist of punk rock band MXPX, shares his band's journey from Bremerton, WA, to iconic status. He discusses their early years, signing with Tooth & Nail, and the challenges of being a 'Christian' band. Herrera delves into the evolution of their music and the DIY ethos that shaped their identity. He also touches on the importance of owning music masters and his excitement for their new album, "Find A Way Home." Tune in for insights into the punk scene and personal anecdotes that resonate with fans.

Finn McKenty, a music industry interviewer and creator of The Punk Rock MBA, brings his humor to a discussion about fashion trends and fast food preferences. They reminisce about past styles and their favorite fast food chains, notably McDonald's and a light-hearted debate about Arby's and Popeyes. The conversation shifts to the impact of TikTok on music and the amusing challenges of learning tonal languages. They also share nostalgic food stories and quirky preferences, like dislikes for olives and the debate over peanut butter types.

Morgoth Beatz, a musician from Winds of Plague and a producer for artists like Lil Xan and Bones, dives into the evolving world of rap and its current state. He discusses how social media shapes perceptions of the genre's decline while highlighting emerging artists like Playboy Carti and Yeat. Morgoth articulates the blending of hip-hop with punk and metal influences, showcasing how unique sounds and collaborative production styles are reshaping music landscapes. The conversation also explores the acceptance of genres like trap metal among diverse fan bases.

UFC fighter Andre Fili, a passionate Midwest emo aficionado and comic book lover, dives into the fascinating overlap of fighting and emo culture. He shares humorous tales from his life and discusses the evolution of emo music, revealing his roots in the Midwest scene. Andre emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in personal relationships while tackling communication and identity challenges. He also ranks MMA shorts with playful banter, merging lightheartedness with insights on style and performance within the sport.

Ryan Long, a comedian known for his sharp stand-up and The Boyscast, dives into the chaotic world of comedy. He shares insights into the evolving nature of stand-up in the age of podcasts and COVID-19. The conversation touches on balancing commercial pressures with creative freedom, the clash of authenticity and political expectations, and the unique dynamics of performing in iconic venues. Long also reflects on societal influences from controversial figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson, highlighting humor's role in addressing serious issues.

Gaming YouTuber RGT 85 shares his journey from pharmacy technician to a full-time content creator. He dives into the passionate and often obsessive world of Nintendo fandom, discussing the company's innovative yet frustrating practices. The conversation covers the nostalgic appeal of retro gaming and the challenges of balancing content creation with gaming itself. RGT also critiques the Nintendo eShop for its low-quality offerings, reflecting on the evolution of gaming technology and the joy of reminiscing about classic titles.

Joanna Angel, the founder of Burning Angel and a trailblazer in adult entertainment, shares her journey through punk culture and entrepreneurship. She dives into her love for emo bands and the evolving music scene. Joanna reflects on the challenges of launching an adult website, the balance between punk's rawness and societal views on sexuality, and the impact of platforms like OnlyFans. With humor, she critiques controversial figures like Gavin McInnes and discusses the shifting dynamics of the adult film industry, revealing both the struggles and triumphs of her career.

Nita Strauss, a renowned metal guitarist celebrated for her work with Alice Cooper and Demi Lovato, dives into the thriving metal guitar scene. She discusses the evolution of artistry, emphasizing the vital balance between resilience and hard work in a competitive industry. Nita shares her experiences collaborating with younger artists like Polyphia, the importance of live performance, and adapting to the digital landscape. She also touches on maintaining authenticity in her music and the unique challenges faced by female musicians in metal.