68: Chris Lee-Rodriguez (Really From & I Kill Giants) & the Pedagogy of Nostalgia

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Chris Lee-Rodriguez is a brilliant musician, educator, and all-around good person. Chris is the guitarist and vocalist for the Boston-based jazzy emo band, Really From, and previously lead the math punk act, I Kill Giants. Chris recently released his first solo project with an EP called, “It Could Happen,” which he self-released on May 3. You will hear a number of these tracks throughout the episode!

Chris teaches young people how to play guitars and a number of other instruments - an experience that he reflects on in detail in this episode. This conversation also covers a lot of arenas of interest to our listeners including how Hurricane Maria impacted him and his family in Puerto Rico, to his disgust for capitalism and Shark Tank (to my chagrin), as well as Chris’ three pieces of being a good person.

This episode was recorded in a practice space - where other bands were practicing, so you may hear random bouts of song in the background here and there.

---

MUSIC NOTE:
- This week you got to hear tunes from the Chris Lee-Rodriguez’s debut release, “It Could Happen,” which he self-released on May 3.
- Chris’s solo sound takes on a number of the styles he’s presented throughout his various projects over the years - including expanding into more of his classical Spanish guitar stylings that compliment the more chaotic moments of the album.
- On this episode, you got to hear the tracks, “Written by the Golden Gate Bridge,” “Dream Song,” and “Hurricane is a Taino word.” You can check out the album through the Chris’s Bandcamp page, and through all of the streaming platforms!

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THE CONNECTEDU NETWORK
- This week, you got to learn about the ConnectEDU Network, of which this podcast is now a contributing member!
- ConnectEDU Network connects the unique perspectives and expert insight of higher education through podcasting. If you’re affiliated with higher education – from professor to director of marketing – you’ll be able to find a podcast that fits your style. Our podcasts are produced and hosted by passionate and innovative members of the field, all fueled by the excitement of the future of higher education.
- You should check out all of the Network’s content creators and podcasts right now if you’re looking for some new education-based pods!

And you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

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THE ART OF SURVIVAL UPDATE

We've officially rebranded The Art of Survival and launched a revamping of our website - artissurvival.com! Check out the MANY resources we have available and please feel free to read our stories and share your own!

We are also excited to announce a brand new Patreon account - so if you would like to support our work, please check out your options of how to do so! Even $5/month can go a long way!

Check out the link here:
https://www.patreon.com/artofsurvival

And if you haven't noticed, we're dedicating ourselves to the music scene moving forward - so if your band/venue would like to work with us, please reach out!

---

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in - we will be back next week with another great chat!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

67: Kevin Klein (Valleyheart) & Exploring Spirituality through Music

Kevin Klein is the lead singer and guitarist for the band, Valleyheart. Kevin is a multi-talented musician who has been on a wild musical journey to get to where he is today. Starting out playing in a Christian metalcore band, Exiting the Fall, Kevin eventually veered into more chill outlets as his interests in music evolved. Eventually those efforts would become the Salem, MA-based band, Valleyheart.

During this conversation, Kevin and I dig into his spiritual roots and how they have influenced, defined, and evolved during his life and musical ventures. The conversation also features a bit about the realities of booking DIY tours - playing not only in basements, but in restaurants and boxing rings as well. There’s also a great meditation or two on the influence Sufjan Stevens has had on both my life and Kevin’s life.

This is a fun and thoughtful conversation that I know you will love. AND you get to hear some beautiful music throughout. Valleyheart will be on tour with My Epic this month and into June. The band will embark on a summer run of dates with Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - you can check out their tour dates here!

---

MUSIC NOTE:
- This week you got to hear tunes from the debut Valleyheart album, “Everyone I’ve Ever Loved,” which was released on December 14 through Rise Records.
- Valleyheart is a brilliant rock band the presents each song with expertly layered lush atmospheres and soundscapes while retaining a perfect amount of raw emotion. Fans of From Indian Lakes, Manchester Orchestra, and Copeland will love these guys.
- On this episode, you got to hear the tracks, “Agnosia,” “Friends in the Foyer,” and “Fourth of July,” which is a cover of the brilliant Sufjan Stevens song. You can check out the album through the band’s Bandcamp page, and through all of the streaming platforms!

---

THE CONNECTEDU NETWORK
- This week, you got to learn about the ConnectEDU Network, of which this podcast is now a contributing member!
- ConnectEDU Network connects the unique perspectives and expert insight of higher education through podcasting. If you’re affiliated with higher education – from professor to director of marketing – you’ll be able to find a podcast that fits your style. Our podcasts are produced and hosted by passionate and innovative members of the field, all fueled by the excitement of the future of higher education.
- You should check out all of the Network’s content creators and podcasts right now if you’re looking for some new education-based pods!

And you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

---

THE ART OF SURVIVAL UPDATE

We've officially rebranded The Art of Survival and launched a revamping of our website - artissurvival.com! Check out the MANY resources we have available and please feel free to read our stories and share your own!

We are also excited to announce a brand new Patreon account - so if you would like to support our work, please check out your options of how to do so! Even $5/month can go a long way!

Check out the link here:
https://www.patreon.com/artofsurvival

And if you haven't noticed, we're dedicating ourselves to the music scene moving forward - so if your band/venue would like to work with us, please reach out!

---

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in - we will be back next week with another great chat!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

58: Francesca Impastato (Macseal) & the Representation of Queer Women Drummers

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

We’re back after a month away with a chat with Macseal drummer, Francesca Impastato. Francesca is a graduate of Berklee College of Music - where she focused on drums and music business, as well as instrument repair - of which, she has a fantastically misogynistic story to share. Francesca began drumming at the age of 5 - and not just hitting the drums with sticks, but actually finding the rhythm and beat and playing from there. One could say she was born to play the drums.

Francesca and I sat down in my practice space in Allston, Mass on Sunday while a jam band was rocking out above us to chat about everything that came to our minds. It was great timing because Francesca was only in Boston for a short period of time before heading down to New York to prepare for Macseal’s weekender tour. So we hope you dig this conversation - cuz we had a lot of fun having it!

MUSIC NOTE:
- This week we shared tunes from the new Macseal EP, “Map it Out,” which comes out Friday! You can get a digital copy or cassette of the album through 6131 Records!
- Macseal is a brilliant new school indie emo band that has made a big wave through multiple DIY tours up and down the east coast and across the country. The band is poised to be a big hit with a full-length album on the horizon in another year or so!
- In this episode, we played the songs, “Sure thing, Shelly,” “Harry,” and “Next to You.”
- Also, all of the band’s music is already available FOR DOWNLOAD on their bandcamp site, so you have no reason to not download this album right now!

As always, you can CHECK OUT OUR SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Table-Turned is a DIY record-of-the-month club. Subscribers select from two genre options and receive a record each month for that genre, including some “classics” as well as albums they may have missed.
- The current genre selections are Garage Rock and Ska-Punk, and for the next month, you can start your monthly vinyl subscription for $160, which gives you a FREE MONTH, after that it becomes $175 for the year.
- Table-Turned was recently featured in Paste magazine AND in The Hype Magazine!
- To learn more and/or to start your subscription, visit Table-Turned.com!

And you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back soon with a special extra episode!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

56: Dylan Slocum (Spanish Love Songs) - From Collegiate Baseball to Punk Rock Gigs

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Slocum is the tall guy on the far right.

Dylan Slocum is the lead singer and guitarist for the punk rock band, Spanish Love Songs. Dylan grew up playing baseball and was even a collegiate pitcher - which gave him a fascinating look into the college experience from the standpoint of a student athlete. Dylan and I broke down the lack of self-care that exists for a majority of student athletes, and how Dylan eventually developed his own path through education and even the punk rock realm.

Dylan and I sat down in my kitchen after a hefty Red Robin meal and got right down to business. The conversation often meanders through various life experiences - including exploring education options and opportunities throughout college while eventually finding worth in making music. And then there’s a slight detour into a cheesecake taste test (not brought to you by Cheesecake Factory)!

Spanish Love Songs is on the rise right now and the band is doing some really great stuff, so make sure to check them out beyond this interview! Enjoy!

MUSIC NOTE:
- This week we shared tunes from the new Spanish Love Songs album, “Schmaltz,” which came out in March through A-F Records! You can get a vinyl copy, CD, or digital copy of the album through A-F Records or on the band’s website!
- Spanish Love Songs is a fantastic punk rock band from Los Angeles - they’ve been crushing it over the last few years and everyone in the band is fantastic. So please support them!
- In this episode, we played the songs, “Buffalo Buffalo,” “The Boy Considers His Haircut,” and “Bellyache.”
- Also, all of the band’s music is already available FOR DOWNLOAD on their bandcamp site, so you have no reason to not download this album right now!

As always, you can CHECK OUT OUR SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

---

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- This week we hyped up Half Access - which is the nonprofit founded by our eighth guest, Cassie Wilson. Half Access was started with the purpose of amassing as much venue accessibility information as possible to inform venues across the country and the world about how to better construct and renovate spaces to accommodate the needs of disabled music goers.
- Half Access has launched a brand new website! Visit HalfAccess.org to sign up for updates from the organization. You can also reach out to Cassie and volunteer your time to supporting the cause of making music venues for inclusive and accessible so that our communities can truly thrive.

And as always, you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back next week with a new episode!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

49: Yannick Florest & Educating through Hip Hop

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Yannick Florest is an educator, teacher, and a rapper. Yannick has been educating in the New York area for his entire adulthood, and has taken much of what he has learned throughout the last decade or so and has put it into his music through the avenue of hip hop. Yannick has an incredible flow, brilliant messages, and some wonderful autobiographical flourishes that makes his art feel that much more personal as it is enjoyable.

Craig and Yannick met up in Brooklyn, NY a couple weeks ago to, well, meet for the first time, and to chat about life, education, anime, and hip-hop, all while in the confines of a somewhat still lobby of a Brooklyn Marriott. The two dig into the challenges of being truly authentic with students, how peers can perceive that authenticity, and the value of being a creative person within education - and how we let it out and let loose! This was such a lively conversation and we hope you love it too!

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week we shared tunes from Yannick Florest's new mixtape, "TeachersCollegeorBust," which he independently released on June 20.
- It took nearly 50 episodes but we finally had a hip-hop artist featured on the podcast! What a way to get things started, too - by featuring a man who released it all himself.
- We featured the tracks, "5am to Albany," "Stock Exchange," and "Black Saiyan Excellence" on this week's episode.
- The mixtape is currently available FOR DOWNLOAD on his bandcamp site, so you have no reason to not download this album right now!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Table-Turned is a DIY record-of-the-month club. Subscribers select from two genre options and receive a record each month for that genre, including some “classics” as well as albums they may have missed.
- The current genre selections are Garage Rock and Ska-Punk, and for the next month, you can start your monthly vinyl subscription for $160, which gives you a FREE MONTH, after that it becomes $175 for the year.
- Table-Turned was recently featured in Paste magazine AND in The Hype Magazine!
- To learn more and/or to start your subscription, visit Table-Turned.com!

And you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back next week with a new episode!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

48: Hannah Liuzzo (Lilith) & Musical Mentorship

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Hannah Liuzzo of Lilith.
Photo by Mel Taing

Hannah Liuzzo is the guitarist and vocalist in the Boston-based band, Lilith. Liuzzo is also a music teacher, mentor, and purveyor of musical instruments. This conversation centers on the lessons learned while educating the generation of musicians, while also discussing ways to make scenes more inclusive to femme musicians and how to get men to take up less space and listen. Hannah and Craig chilled out on Craig and Katy's back porch for this relaxed conversation between two new music nerds who became quick friends.

You also get to hear tunes from Lilith's latest cassingle, which features the tracks, "I'll Come Over," and "In Real Life." You get to hear both of these tracks, as well as a bit of history behind the creation of the band and how it was truly spawned out of boredom.

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- This week we hyped up No More Deaths (No Mas Muertes), which is an organization that is incredibly important right now with the bullshit going on at the US/Mexico Border.
- No More Deaths is a humanitarian organization based in southern Arizona. The group began in 2004 as a coalition of community and faith groups, dedicated to stepping up efforts to stop the deaths of migrants in the desert and to achieving the enactment of a set of Faith-Based Principles for Immigration Reform.
- The group is utilizing volunteers who hike through the desert trails and leave water, food, socks, blankets, and other supplies. Under the direction of our medical team, volunteers provide emergency first-aid treatment to individuals in distress.
- Finally, No More Deaths is currently working on legal defense projects for folks migrating into America, while also documenting the abuse and human rights violations that occur while being detained by US Border Patrol.
- Please consider donating (either money, supplies, or time) to No More Deaths - No Mas Muertes today!

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week we shared tunes from the new Lilith single, "I'll Come Over // In Real Life," which came out on June 1 through Disposable America.
- Lilith is a Boston-based pop n rock band
- The cassingle is currently available FOR DOWNLOAD on their bandcamp site, so you have no reason to not download this album right now! You can also snag a limited run cassette copy of the single - hence the term, 'cassingle.'
- There's even a special super secret feature at the end of the episode, so make sure you hang around for that!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

And as mentioned at the top of the episode, you can now join our Facebook community by CLICKING HERE!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back next week with a new episode!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

43: Craig & Katy talk about Year One of the Pod

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

CHECK OUT OUR NEW LOGO
Pencil design by Lauren Lavin
Typography by Katy Hamm

First thing's first - we've been a podcast for ONE YEAR! And during that time, we have had so many fascinating conversations with a bunch of awesome people. One thing that has been only merely touched on is information about me (Craig) - so Katy had the great idea of the two of us sitting down to chat about my exposures to the worlds of education and punk and the podcast. Truly breaking down the edu, the PUNX, and the podcast!

We dig into how I grew up as a first-generation college student who loved school, and developed into punk kid who challenged authority at every turn, adapting DIY ethics, and eventually starting a podcast that connects people with those things in common as well. While there have been many pieces of my life strung together throughout the episodes of this podcast, here's a true chance to learn a bit more about me, the guy behind the podcast!

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week we shared tunes from the new Retirement Party album, "Somewhat Literate," which was released on May 25 through Counter Intuitive Records.
- We shared the songs, "Scene 48," "Grand Am," and "Truck Stop Casino."
- The album is currently available FOR FREE DOWNLOAD on their bandcamp site, so you have no reason to not download this album right now!
- And hey, if physical music is your deal, you can snag the vinyl pressing or a CD from the folks at Counter Intuitive Records, like we did over the weekend!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- This was a rough week for me and a few others, so I wanted to hype the National Suicide Prevention lifeline. Please know that you have an outlet in case you need someone to speak with when you aren't feeling great.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) if you need some support.
- You can also suggest that folks reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741.
- And feel free to reach out to us on social or via email if you need someone to talk with as well! we're here for you - we love you.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

In Between Spins 004 - Getting to the Gig

WELCOME TO THE NEW IN BETWEEN SPINS!

This month, we talk about the gig - booking gigs, attending gigs, and how one gets to the gig. Jaclyn O'Connell is back with me this month - and we're joined by Lesley University senior, Kaera Wyse, who books gigs, attends gigs, and loves encouraging people to get to the gig. Kaera also has a knack for intentionally booking diverse lineups with the expressed intent to create better representation in the DIY scene. We dig into how to construct bills, what our ideal bills look like, and whether it's okay to show up to a gig late, or to leave early. There's a lot to cover in this one and we really dig into it. Hope you enjoy!

MUSIC NOTES:
This episode featured a bunch of new tunes!
Here's a full list of the jams you heard this week:
- "Lay Low," by Fiddlehead
- "Somewhere a Judge," Hop Along
- "Cubic Zirconia," No Thank You
- "Hollow Body," Many Rooms
- "Capture the Flag," War on Women
- "Rituals," Rolo Tomassi
- "Regan," Tuxis Giant
- "Symmetry," Wye Oak
- "Buffalo Buffalo," Spanish Love Songs

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

Make sure you follow Jaclyn's project over at inbetweenspins.com - and follow on Twitter and Instagram to check out all of the goodies she's gonna share with the world! And check out her YouTube channel!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back on Wednesday with a new episode!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

37: Shawna Potter (War on Women) & Being a Better Ally

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Shawna Potter is the lead singer of the Baltimore-based feminist punk band, War on Women. Shawna is an activist for human rights, social justice, and gender equity - and is the founder of the Baltimore chapter of Hollaback, which is an initiative to combat street harassment. Shawna has also been facilitating workshops on sexual assault prevention - which she hopes to bring to college campuses, along with the bands' performances.

We spoke with Shawna about the creation of the new War on Women album, the state of politics, and whether the #MeToo movement is actually going to make a difference in the conversation and prevention of sexual assault moving forward. This conversation is also important because we address how to call-in folks when there are disagreements and learning opportunities as allies and how we can all stand to be a little more patient with each other.

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week, we played tunes from the new War on Women album, "Capture the Flag," which is out this Friday on Bridge 9 records!
- We played the songs, "YDTMHTL," which features vocals from Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill, Le Tigre, and Julie Ruin, as well as the song, "Lone Wolves."
- If you like what you heard, make sure you visit Bridge 9 Records and snag yourself a vinyl copy, a CD, or a digital copy of the album - you will want to have this in your ears as we move forward with the resistance in 2018!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Make sure you follow Jaclyn's project over at inbetweenspins.com - we just posted a new episode of the podcast element of the project, so give that a listen!
- Follow In Between Spins on Twitter and Instagram to check out all of the goodies she's gonna share with the world! And check out her YouTube channel!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

36X: Matt & Craig talk about God & Sufjan Stevens

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Photo by Nick DiNatale

Matthew Politoski and I had a lot to talk about when we met up for our conversation - and we even had a built in amount of time to discuss one of our favorite artists, Sufjan Stevens. However, we didn't know how much we would discuss it and/or that it would also encompass a powerful conversation on faith that hasn't happened on this podcast just yet. Many educational moments on this extra segment of the podcast, and I hope you enjoy it! You get to hear more Sufjan Stevens in the background as we continued spinning Sufjan throughout the conversation.

MUSIC NOTES:
- In this episode, you heard the song, "Lord of Pain," from the new Animal Flag album, "Void Ripper," which drops on April 13!
- Visit Animal Flag's bandcamp to stream some of the singles, and/or to preorder the album.
- You can also visit Flower Girl Records to get a vinyl, CD, or cassette copy of the album as well!
- Matthew also recently released a solo instrumental/drone album called, "8 Emanations," from which you heard the songs, "4 Ocen," and "Shame," respectively. 
- All of the proceeds from Matthew's solo record will be donated to BARCC. They are an incredible organization that provide free, confidential support and services to survivors of sexual violence in the Greater Boston area. Learn more at www.barcc.org.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

36: Matthew Politoski (Animal Flag) & Music Education

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Matthew Politoski started Animal Flag as a solo project many moons ago and over the years, it has become a band that is a force to be reckoned with. Politoski also comes from a pretty musical family, which is how he learned to make music - and now he works as a music educator, supporting kids and young adults of varying levels of knowledge learn how to be better musicians and ensembles/bands. We get into what he's learned along the way en route to finding out a number of fantastic musical connections - because the world is truly a tiny place.

On April 13, Animal Flag releases its new album, "Void Ripper," through Flower Girl Records and Triple Crown Records - an album that allowed Politoski to explore a number of topics that helped him process existence, faith, and the intersections therein. "Void Ripper" is a stunning rock album that is as raw as it is beautiful and elegant. Make sure you check it out when it drops!

Also, Matthew and I certainly got onto a number of tangents that were certainly related to the conversation - yet, one such tangent deserved it's own bonus episode, which you will hear this weekend! So stick around for that!

MUSIC NOTES:
- In this episode, you heard tunes from the new Animal Flag album, "Void Ripper," and album that drops on April 13! Visit Animal Flag's bandcamp to stream some of the singles, and/or to preorder the album.
- You can also visit Flower Girl Records to get a vinyl, CD, or cassette copy of the album as well!
- This episode featured elements from the songs, "Void Ripper," "Fair," and "Candace."
- Matthew also recently released a solo instrumental/drone album called, "8 Emanations," from which you heard the songs, "4 Ocen," and "Shame," respectively. 
- All of the proceeds from Matthew's solo record will be donated to BARCC. They are an incredible organization that provide free, confidential support and services to survivors of sexual violence in the Greater Boston area. Learn more at www.barcc.org.

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

Visit RAINN.org for more information!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Sexual Assault Awareness Month, so I want to share information about RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the national Sexual Assault Hotline.
- RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE, online.rainn.org & rainn.org/es) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline is a safe, confidential service. When you call the hotline, only the first six numbers of the phone number are used to route the call, and your complete phone number is never stored in our system. Most states do have laws that require local staff to contact authorities in certain situations, like if there is a child or vulnerable adult who is in danger.
- Visit RAINN.org for more information!

- And make sure you follow Jaclyn's project over at inbetweenspins.com - we just posted a new episode of the podcast element of the project, so give that a listen!
- Follow In Between Spins on Twitter and Instagram to check out all of the goodies she's gonna share with the world! And check out her YouTube channel!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you this weekend when we post the XTRA episode from this conversation!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

35: Survival Ain't Pretty (LIVE from Raritan Valley Community College)

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

photo: Chris Rosonina

This is a special episode of the podcast because it features a talk/performance that I gave at Raritan Valley Community College in Somerville/Bridgewater, New Jersey last week! The talk is called, "Survival Ain't Pretty," and it's a talk that I've delivered a few times now, and I love doing it because it allows me to include my music and my poetry throughout the talk of me describing my life as someone who has lived with, survived, and struggled with ADHD, addiction, and mental illness.

There is a lot covered in this talk, and I know it might feel like a lot to take in, but after having done this podcast for over 9 months now, I felt it was time to truly let folks in on who I am as a person, especially at such a pivotal moment in my life and my exploration of mental health support services. Being vulnerable like this isn't easy, but it's something I've become quite accustom to over the years.

If you like this talk that I deliver, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts, and if you'd like to book me to speak on your campus - please use my website (visit my Public Speaking page) or email me at CraigBidiman@gmail.com. I also cover the topics of sexual health, sexual assault prevention/consent, and leadership/authenticity.

And if you're interested in seeing some video from this talk, here is a link to me performing, "Sit Still."

Reminder: This episode was bumped up due to technical difficulties with this week's In Between Spins episode, which will post this weekend, so stay tuned!

MUSIC NOTES:
- You get to hear tunes from my EP, "Farewell," as well as live recordings of me performing the song, "Taking its Toll," from my 2013 EP, "With Foreign Lips and Strange Tongues," AND a new song that's yet to be officially released, "Full of Fear."
- I also perform two spoken word pieces on this episode - one is called, "Bastard Son," and is also on the "Farewell" EP, the other is a brand new piece called, "Sit Still."
- If you like what you heard, please visit anotherpoormusician.bandcamp.com!

- Don't forget! You can use the promo code EDUPUNX over at Spartan Records to get 20% off your next purchase through their site!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- This week, I shared information about the National Suicide Prevention lifeline. The holidays can be difficult for many people for many different reasons and sometimes it can feel like too much - so please know that you have an outlet in case you need someone to speak with when you aren't feeling great.
- Call 1-800-279-TALK (8255) if you need some support.
- And feel free to reach out to us on social or via email if you need someone to talk with as well! we're here for you - we love you.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- We're also FINALLY on Stitcher, so head over there if that's your preferred platform!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you this weekend when we post the new episode of In Between Spins!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OLD EPISODES!

• June 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• September 2017 4
• October 2017 7
• November 2017 3
• December 2017 3
• January 2018 4
• February 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• May 2018 6
• June 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• August 2018 4
• September 2018 4
• October 2018 2
• November 2018 2
• December 2018 1
• January 2019 3
• February 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• July 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• November 2019 2
• December 2019 1
• January 2020 3
• February 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• April 2020 2
• August 2020 3
• September 2020 1
• October 2020 2

33: Dane Erbach (Table-Turned) & Teaching as Performance

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST!

Dane Erbach has been a high school teacher in the suburbs of Chicago for over a decade. He's also the owner of Table-Turned, which is a vinyl subscription service that allows folks to pick a genre of their choice, and each month they receive a new record in the mail! Dane has a huge heart for music and for his students, which you get to hear throughout this episode, which is full of stories and insight to his busy life - balancing full-time work as an educator, father, husband, and record label owner/vinyl subscription owner. 

Dane and I sort of feel like kindred spirits at times throughout the conversation, as our ethics and interests align very well - so well that this conversation could have easily ran double in length. We get into what it's like being an ultra authentic educator and what that looks like in terms of being an accessible resource for our students, and how we bring a lot of ourselves into our work. And how when we get home, we take out the remaining energy we have on our creative efforts.

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week, I featured tunes from the new Man Mountain album, "Infinity Mirror," which comes out THIS FRIDAY through Spartan Records. Man Mountain is a fantastic post rock instrumental band from Detroit, and I've been looking forward to a full-length from them for a while now!
- You got to hear the song, "Memory Trace," which is off the new album, and if you like what you heard, head over to Spartan Records right now and snag yourself a digital copy, a CD, or one of the few remaining vinyl copies they have left!
- I also played bits of the song, "Lucerna," throughout the episode, which is the second track on the band's 3-track EP, "To Call Each Thing By Its Right Name," which came out in 2013.

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTE:
- This week we hyped Dane's vinyl subscription service, Table Turned!
- Table-Turned is a DIY record-of-the-month club. Subscribers select from two genre options and receive a record each month for that genre, including some “classics” as well as albums they may have missed.
- Table-Turned was recently featured in Paste magazine AND in The Hype Magazine!
- Right now, folks can subscribe for either the Post-Hardcore genre option or the Shoegaze genre option $160 for an entire year. You will eventually be able to subscribe month-to-month for $15 a month. RESERVE YOUR COPIES NOW - TONIGHT is your last chance to make this happen! After tonight, the rate goes up to $175 for the year, which is still a great price!
- To learn more and/or to start your subscription, visit Table-Turned.com!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

32: Julien Baker & Music as Recovery

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

photo: Nolan Knight

Julien Baker is one of the brightest up-and-coming performers in music today. And long before she was selling out theatres all over the world, and opening for the likes of Iron and Wine, Jason Isbell, and Paramore, she was gigging in basements, VFW halls, and living rooms. Julien's DIY roots are one of the main reasons I wanted to chat with her.

This is an expansive chat that covers a variety of topics from mental health to recovery, to the political landscape and the education system. Julien is one of the most brilliant young minds in the world today, so it was incredibly fun to pick her brain in such a relaxed and genuine manner.

MUSIC NOTES:
- You get to hear tunes from Julien's new album, "Turn Out the Lights," which was released in October through Matador Records. You can still snag physical copies through their store!
- I share snippets of her songs, "Hurt Less," "Turn Out the Lights," and "Appointments."
- During Jaclyn's ad, you also get to hear some of Julien's song, "Brittle Boned," from her debut LP, "Sprained Ankle," the roots of which is chronicled in this conversation. You can also snag a copy of that album through 6131 Records!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Today's episode is selfishly sponsored by our own nonprofit, The Art of Survival! You can check out more about what we do for survivors of trauma, by visiting www.artissurvival.com.
- We are back after taking a few months off from sharing stories and we are excited to continue sharing powerful and important experiences from people all over the world.
- So if you, or someone you know, has a story of survival to share with us, and would like to receive a free piece of art from us, reach out and let us know!

- This episode is also sponsored by In Between Spins, which is the new femme and nonbinary music project of our friend, Jaclyn O'Connell!
- In Between Spins launches tomorrow (March 8) on International Women's Day! So make sure you follow her work over at inbetweenspins.com - and follow on Twitter and Instagram to check out all of the goodies she's gonna share with the world!

VINYL GIVEAWAY RULES:
- Who doesn't love a nice giveaway?! Well, here is our FIRST!
- If you want to win a vinyl copy of the new S. Carey album, "Hundred Acres," AND the new Hovvdy album, "Cranberry," please share this image on your Twitter and/or Instagram accounts! Make sure to follow @AllstonPudding, @eduPUNXPod, and @inbetweenspins to make sure you get entered to win!

- You have until THIS FRIDAY, March 9th at 8pm EST to enter the giveaway - at which point, we will contact a winner and arrange shipment! Enter on both Twitter and Instagram to double your chances - and please help us spread the word!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and we will be back this later week with an extra episode with Julien!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

30: Michi Tassey (Nature Shots) & Music Therapy

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST!

Photo: Sam Tassey

Michi Tassey is a music therapist, the keyboardist and vocalist for People Like You, as well as the songwriter behind Nature Shots - her latest solo effort, with which she recently released her debut LP, Foreclosure. Foreclosure is an emotionally dense album. Throughout our conversation, Michi and I get into how channeling very personal source material can make for a very cathartic experience - especially when being present in the moments of which you're channeling.

We also dig into Michi's work as a music therapist, where she understandably gets to nerd out a bit about how music impacts the brain - spoiler: it all comes down to rhythm - and how music can literally help people heal from traumatic injury. It's truly one of the most educational and informative conversations I've had on this podcast, and I'm sure you will love the hell out of it.

Here's a great Boston Globe article about the power of Michi's music therapy work.

MUSIC NOTE:
- You get to hear a bunch of tunes from the new Nature Shots LP, "Foreclosure," on this episode!
- You hear the tunes, "three," "what is the word for when you are screaming and no one can hear?" and "a prayer; begging," throughout this episode.
- If you like what you hear, check out natureshots.bandcamp.com to listen to the entire album, and reach out the Michi if you would like to snag a cassette copy for yourself!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

ADVERTISING NOTE:
- This week we hyped the vinyl subscription service, Table Turned!
- Table-Turned is a DIY record-of-the-month club. Subscribers select from two genre options and receive a record each month for that genre, including some “classics” as well as albums they may have missed.
- Table-Turned was recently featured in Paste magazine AND in The Hype Magazine!
- Right now, folks can subscribe for either the Post-Hardcore genre option or the Shoegaze genre option $160 for an entire year. You will eventually be able to subscribe month-to-month for $15 a month. RESERVE YOUR COPIES NOW - you have just under TWO months to make this happen!
- To learn more and/or to start your subscription, visit Table-Turned.com!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OUR PAST EPISODES!

• June 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• September 2017 4
• October 2017 7
• November 2017 3
• December 2017 3
• January 2018 4
• February 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• May 2018 6
• June 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• August 2018 4
• September 2018 4
• October 2018 2
• November 2018 2
• December 2018 1
• January 2019 3
• February 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• July 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• November 2019 2
• December 2019 1
• January 2020 3
• February 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• April 2020 2
• August 2020 3
• September 2020 1
• October 2020 2

29: Jess Hall & Tom Stevens (oldsoul) & Keeping the Scene Safe

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

oldsoul (L to R): Tom Stevens, Tyler Heisler, Jess Hall, Chris Henault
Photo: Emily Boudreau Photography

Jess Hall and Tom Stevens are half of the Eastern Mass-based band, oldsoul. oldsoul releases its debut LP, "coy," this Friday, February 9 on Counter Intuitive Records. Jess plays guitar and sings and yells a whole bunch, and Tom plays guitar and sings and talks on the album as well. They're also BOTH recent college graduates!!

In this chat, we dig into the origins of the band, what it takes to keep a band alive while attending college, and the importance of safety at gigs in today's #MeToo society of folks finally listening to survivors and holding abusers responsible for their actions.

There was so much to get into on this episode that there will even be an XTRA episode on Saturday, so stay tuned for that! You get to hear a bunch of new tunes from oldsoul on this episode and if you're in the Lowell, Mass area on Friday, try to make it out to their album release show at unchARTed Gallery.

MUSIC NOTES:
- You hear the tune, "Good Girl," at the beginning of this episode. It's the penultimate track on the new oldsoul album, "coy," which is out this Friday through Counter Intuitive Records.
- The featured track is "I Fell Asleep to Twin Peaks pt. 1," which is discussed in the episode - it was the first single for the new album, and is a two-part track pairs very well in the context of the album.
- If you like what you hear, please visit oldsoulma.bandcamp.com to pick up the album on CD or digital download! Support one of the best up-and-coming acts today!

ADVERTISING NOTE:
- This week I hyped up the great work done by Allston Pudding - the Boston alternative music blog and music production company.
- Allston Pudding is operated and written by fans and musicians to highlight new music and live music from all over. They are supporters of local music, from their hometowns to local scenes throughout the world. Allston Pudding hopes to support and champion artists who may not receive their proper radio play or publicity, but definitely deserve your attention.
- On Tuesday, Allston Pudding featured a live session with our friends in Future Teens! It's a lively and lovely look at another of Boston's big acts on the rise and we'd love ya'll to check it out.
- And if you're in the need of new and upcoming music, definitely peruse the Allston Pudding site and get yourself acquainted with the bands they suggest you check out!

As always, you can CHECK OUT THE NEW SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Don't forget, Android users - we are now on the Google Play Store!!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OUR PAST EPISODES

• June 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• September 2017 4
• October 2017 7
• November 2017 3
• December 2017 3
• January 2018 4
• February 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• May 2018 6
• June 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• August 2018 4
• September 2018 4
• October 2018 2
• November 2018 2
• December 2018 1
• January 2019 3
• February 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• July 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• November 2019 2
• December 2019 1
• January 2020 3
• February 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• April 2020 2
• August 2020 3
• September 2020 1
• October 2020 2

18: Francesca Olsen (House Sparrow) & Digital Citizenship

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

Francesca Olsen is a multi-talented higher education professional who works at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. She is also the frontwoman for the western Mass two-piece band, House Sparrow. In this episode of the podcast, Craig and Francesca dive into the world of social media in higher education, as well as what it is like to tour and play gigs as a professional staff member. And you get to hear some tunes from the new House Sparrow album, "Eat Honey, Taste Mud," which is out this Friday!

EPISODE NOTES:
- Francesca discusses her love of the Western Mass with much fondness because she's at the forefront of the scene - alongside Sounds and Tones Records label-runner, Chris Hantman.
- Check out Francesca's DIY blog, Digital Wheatpaste, for all things within the DIY subcultures of New England and beyond!
- Make sure to read up on the new House Sparrow album over at New Noise Magazine!
- If you've already through "1984," make sure you give "Without You, There is No Us," by Suki Kim a read and then reach out to Francesca so you can talk about it!
- Because of this conversation, Francesca turned me onto the 99% Invisible podcast and I'm now obsessed with it!
- While Francesca is an all-time fan of Guided by Voices, she strongly urges you to check out the lovely new jams from Alvvays.

MUSIC NOTES:
- You got to hear a bunch of tracks from the new House Sparrow album, "Eat Honey, Taste Mud," which is out this Friday through Sounds and Tones Records!
- Visit HouseSparrowMusic.com or housesparrowmusic.bandcamp.com to stream and/or purchase the new album right now!
- You can also watch the video House Sparrow's song, "You'll See Colors."
- Also, as an extra note, you might be able to hear some music in the background while I'm doing the ads during this episode - the music playing on my turntable was the 2016 pg.lost album, "Versus." Some damn-fine post rock instrumental tunes.

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- This week we hyped up Half Access - which is the nonprofit founded by our eighth guest, Cassie Wilson. Half Access was started with the purpose of amassing as much venue accessibility information as possible to inform venues across the country and the world about how to better construct and renovate spaces to accommodate the needs of disabled music goers.
- Visit HalfAccess.org/contact to reach out to Cassie and volunteer your time to supporting the cause of making music venues for inclusive and accessible so that our communities can truly thrive.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OUR PREVIOUS EPISODES!

• October 2020 2
• September 2020 1
• August 2020 3
• April 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• February 2020 2
• January 2020 3
• December 2019 1
• November 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• July 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• February 2019 2
• January 2019 3
• December 2018 1
• November 2018 2
• October 2018 2
• September 2018 4
• August 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• June 2018 4
• May 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• February 2018 5
• January 2018 4
• December 2017 3
• November 2017 3
• October 2017 7
• September 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• June 2017 4

17X: Xavier Pastrano & Vinyl

WELCOME TO AN X-TRA SPECIAL EPISODE OF THE EDUPUNX PODCAST

EPISODE NOTES:
So this week, I had a great conversation with my guest, Xavier Pastrano. So much so that we had a couple tangents that lead into up discussing the topic that brought us together - vinyl records! I recognize that this is going to be a very niche conversation, so feel free to skip it and wait for the next episode on Tuesday. But if you liked listening to me chat with Xavier, you'll like this EXTRA eduPUNX episode.

I'm gonna try to do more one-off mini-episodes like this one because many of my conversations get on tangents and I just end up scrapping the stuff that doesn't fit into the topic. But NOW, I'm likely going to keep this format moving forward.

Cheap pop note: Make sure you follow Xavier on Instagram at @0staxxofwaxx0, and me at @CrigBididman.

MUSIC NOTES:
- Once again, you get to hear more tunes from the new album, "Omnicide," from Xavier's band, Skin of Our Teeth. You can purchase a digital copy or a CD at skinofourteeth.bandcamp.com.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OUR PREVIOUS EPISODES

• October 2020 2
• September 2020 1
• August 2020 3
• April 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• February 2020 2
• January 2020 3
• December 2019 1
• November 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• July 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• February 2019 2
• January 2019 3
• December 2018 1
• November 2018 2
• October 2018 2
• September 2018 4
• August 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• June 2018 4
• May 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• February 2018 5
• January 2018 4
• December 2017 3
• November 2017 3
• October 2017 7
• September 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• June 2017 4

017: Xavier Pastrano (Skin of Our Teeth) & High School Poetry

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST!

This week, we bring you a very chill conversation with Xavier Pastrano, who is the bassist and lead singer of the sludge/stoner metal band, Skin of Our Teeth. Xavier is also a high school English teacher in Sioux Falls, South Dakota! The dude is incredibly passionate about poetry and literature and we connect on our shared experiences as English teachers - since I taught high school English for a couple of years as well.

We also get into race relations a bit, since Xavier was raised as a mixed kid by a single white mother. And since Xavier lives in a very conservative state, we get into the politics of being a more progressive educator in areas where inclusiveness might not be a priority in the education system. Needless to say, we had a lot to discuss - so much so that there will be a bonus episode later this week of just us talking about music and vinyl!

EPISODE NOTES:
- Xavier discusses how his Black Like Me unit with his students was deeply impactful for his students.
- It was powerful to hear how Xavier's students reacted to the racist murder of Emmett Till.
- Xavier and I have a shared love of the post punk/dark wave band She Wants Revenge.
- I was glad to learn that Xavier took one of his students' favorite artists, Twenty-One Pilots, and demonstrated the poetic devices at play in their song, “Car Radio."
- I discuss how I used four songs in Thrice's "Alchemy Index" album as a demonstration of Shakespearian sonnets.
- It might not be the recipe that Xavier references in the conversation, but here is a recipe for eggless egg salad!
- In classic English teacher fashion, Xavier lists "Catcher in the Rye" and "Perks of Being a Wallflower" as two of his favorite books of all time.
- For his all-time music favorites, Xavier displays his true varied taste in music by naming, Baroness (specifically the "Blue" album) and No Doubt (specifically “Tragic Kingdom”) as the top of the list.
- Make sure to check out new album from Monolord (“Rust”), and the uniquely polarizing, Zeal and Ardor ("Devil is Fine").

MUSIC NOTES:
- This week you get to hear tunes from the new album by stoner/sludge band, Skin of Our Teeth, titled, "Omnicide," which is due out on November 10th. Xavier is the lead singer and bassist (he also does some drums too) of this two-man band; yes, only two people are making all that noise you're hearing throughout the episode. They even trade off between drum and bass throughout their sets, which is pretty damn sweet.
- If you like what you hear, visit skinofourteeth.bandcamp.com to snag yourself a CD or a digital copy of the album now!

ADVERTISING NOTES:
- Since Xavier and I discuss the creativity of some of our students, I wanted to hype the work of one of my former students once again!
- If you need some design work done, check out the work by my buddy and former student, Nevan Doyle! He is one of the best up-and-coming graphic designers and artists today!
- Visit Mishko.co to check out his artwork, videos, and music! You can commission him to create artwork and/or videos for your band, brand, program, company, and/or office! Make it happen!

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

Thanks so much for tuning in and I'll see you next week!

Up the punx!
Let's get to work.

- CRAIG.

CHECK OUT OUR PREVIOUS EPISODES

• October 2020 2
• September 2020 1
• August 2020 3
• April 2020 2
• March 2020 1
• February 2020 2
• January 2020 3
• December 2019 1
• November 2019 2
• August 2019 3
• July 2019 2
• May 2019 2
• April 2019 2
• February 2019 2
• January 2019 3
• December 2018 1
• November 2018 2
• October 2018 2
• September 2018 4
• August 2018 4
• July 2018 3
• June 2018 4
• May 2018 6
• April 2018 5
• March 2018 6
• February 2018 5
• January 2018 4
• December 2017 3
• November 2017 3
• October 2017 7
• September 2017 4
• August 2017 4
• July 2017 4
• June 2017 4

5: Sai Boddupalli (People Like You) & Scene Inclusivity

WELCOME TO THE EDUPUNX PODCAST!

This week, I chat with my first music guest, Sai Boddupalli, of the bands Animal Flag and People Like You. Sai is the child of Indian immigrants, and his experience of being raised in an Indian household contains a number of great stories that you get to hear on this episode!

Sai was raised by a very musical father, and that influence led to him becoming a musician as well. While completing his undergraduate studies at Berklee College of Music, Sai became a very active member of the Boston music scene - where he currently resides. In this chat, we cover his experience as a person of color in the DIY scene and in music spaces that are traditionally populated by white cishet dudes. We discuss the importance of representation and diversity in music, as well as the realities of touring and signing to record labels.

EPISODE NOTES:
- Sai just finished a six-week tour with his rock band, Animal Flag, of which was recently featured on Audiotree.
- The two earliest albums to influence Sai were "Kid A," from Radiohead and the self-titled Rage Against the Machine album. 
- Representation is important because if it weren't for "All Killer no Filler," by Sum 41 and Sai recognizing Dave Baksh of Sum 41 as a fellow Indian, we may not have the Sai we know now.
- If you haven't check out the diversity of sounds that Topshelf Records has to offer, you really need to get on that now!
- Animal Flag recently did a number of gigs alongside the magnanimously talented performer, Chad Matheny, otherwise known as, Emperor X. His new album, "Oversleepers International," is an eccentric collection of songs - out now on Tiny Engines. 

- You can see People Like You and meet up with Sai while on their east coast tour that starts this weekend! For tour dates, visit http://www.topshelfrecords.com/roster/people-like-you.
- Make sure to read this piece on the othering of people by Edward Said.
- We quickly plug two great Boston-area organizations, BARCC (Boston Area Rape Crisis Center), as well as the Democracy Center. Visit their sites for more information!
- Sai and I are both currently enjoying the new Big Thief album, "Capacity," so don't say we didn't warn you!
- Check out the "Short History of Nearly Everything," by Bill Bryson.
- Sai also suggests checking out the book from "A Breath of Fresh Air," by Amulya Malladi.

This is the album artwork for the new People Like You album, "Verse."

MUSIC NOTES:
- All of the music on this week's podcast is provided by People Like You - in which Sai plays the bass guitar. The band was recently signed to Topshelf Records, which will be releasing their new LP, "Verse," on July 28th. It is chock-full of tasty jazzy emo tunes.
- The intro, outro, and ad breaks feature parts of the song, "Variations on an Aria."
- Today's music break song is, "Thumbnail," which was recently premiered by the band.
- You can PREORDER the new People Like You album on vinyl, CD, cassette, and digital by visiting http://www.topshelfrecords.com/products/593720-people-like-you-verse! 
- As referenced in the podcast, a portion of the proceeds from the new People Like You album's pre-order sales will be divided equally and go directly to The Trevor Project, The NAACP Legal Defense Fund and Planned Parenthood. 

ADVERTISING NOTE:
- This week we were sponsored by our friends in Safer Scenes, who are currently on the road with War on Women during the Vans Warped Tour. Safer Scenes is dedicated to educating younger crowds at festivals and in typical concert venues on harmful and problematic issues that plague scenes - explicitly sexual assault, sexual violence, bullying, misogyny.
- You can donate to support the Safer Scenes folks by visiting their GoFundMe page! And if you donate at least $75, I will make you a piece of art - since my nonprofit, The Art of Survival, is sponsoring War on Women and Safer Scenes during their Warped Tour travels.

FOLLOW, RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
- Any love on the iTunes app helps! CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ITUNES STORE!
- Follow along on Instagram and Twitter @eduPUNXpod!

See you next week!
Let's get to work.

- Craig.