47. Why Punk Rock is MORE Relevant Than Ever with UltraBomb

Update: 2025-08-06

Description

In a rare and raucous episode, Kate is joined by all three members of the punk rock supergroup UltraBomb: Greg Norton (Hüsker Dü), Ryan Smith (Soul Asylum), and Derek O’Brien (Social Distortion). Together, they pull back the curtain on what it really takes to survive—and thrive—in the music industry for decades, while staying creative, grounded, and yes, still full of fire.

They share hard-won lessons about longevity in a notoriously difficult business, how they’ve channeled loss, rage, and resilience into their music, and why they’re more focused on creating something new than leaning on past fame. From the raw reality of drug culture in rock and roll to the near-mythical chemistry that brought UltraBomb together, the conversation is equal parts gritty and electrifying.

Listeners will hear stories of learning entire setlists on the fly, how to blast through self-doubt with creative audacity, and why some of the most unforgettable performances happen in front of just a few people. The trio also dives into the importance of staying politically vocal through art, embracing emotional catharsis on stage, and finding fresh energy in new collaborations—even after decades in the game.

If this episode speaks to you, please share with a friend, leave a comment, and drop a review—I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway!

MORE ABOUT THIS EPISODE:

(00:00:00 ) The Audacity to Begin: Longevity & Survival in Punk Rock

(00:07:27 ) Drugs, Creativity & the Myth of the “Rockstar Life”

(00:13:22 ) Creativity on Command: Trust, Teamwork & Letting It Rip

(00:22:36 ) Fresh Music, Fierce Politics & Fearless Collaboration

(00:30:47 ) Punk Roots & Defining Moments: Why They Still Show Up and Play Hard

(00:47:11 ) Built on Sacred Ground: Trust, Flow & Creative Rebirth

Resources:

• Spotify: spotify.com/artist/4u2NU0NKwALURZY2qvtYQb

• Instagram: instagram.com/ultrabombmusic

• Facebook: facebook.com/ultrabombmusic