Episode 16

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Published on:

23rd Jul 2025

Common Thread - Episode 7.2 (Mike Jeffers)

Part 2 of Episode 7 continues our discussion with Mike Jeffers, drummer for Dead to the World, Herod, Juggernaut, GOA, Longest War, and other bands that have been based out of Buffalo NY. Mike also runs the record label Classic Core Records, and also serves a leadership role in the Buffalo Public Schools teachers union.

Mike has been involved with the hardcore punk community for over 30 years, but the focus of our conversation centers on how the values of punk rock have influenced him as an educator, father, and union leader.

In this thoughtful discussion, Mike also expounds on the state of education in Buffalo and America, the present challenges and realities of educating teens in an urban community that faces poverty, crime, and neglect, how social media has changed hardcore for better and worse, and the importance of building a healthy community in the classroom and in the hardcore scene.

Mentioned in this episode:

Mind of Magnus

Check out Mind of Magnus at magnusapollo.com, and leave him factoids at 585-310-2473! https://mind-of-magnus.captivate.fm

Lunchador Podcast Network

Check out all the shows on the Lunchador Podcast Network at Lunchador.org

Joe Bean Roasters

Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

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About the Podcast

Common Thread
A Hardcore Punk Podcast
Rory Van Grol & Greg Benoit talk with guests about how the values, philosophies, and sense of community found in hardcore punk has influenced the trajectory of our lived experiences in unexpected ways. It features organic discussions that illuminate how this music is the common thread that provides continuity throughout our lives and connects us to one another.

About your host

Profile picture for Matt Knotts

Matt Knotts

Co-founder and curator of Lunchador Podcast Network, focused on art, culture and social issues in Rochester NY. Ticketing and Technology Coordinator for Anomaly: The Rochester Genre Film Festival