In this episode, I sit down with Los Angeles-based drummer Dylan Lopez, whose story is a mix of rhythm, resilience, and redemption. Dylan opens up about overcoming addiction, balancing his music career with a demanding work schedule, and maintaining deep connections with his friends—especially his brother-like bond with Memo. His honesty and self-awareness reveal the daily grind behind chasing passion while staying grounded in recovery.

What started as a simple interview turned into one of the most inspiring conversations I’ve had. Recorded inside a creative studio on the edge of Skid Row, this episode dives into gratitude, purpose, and the power of faith—reminding me that growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built one beat, one breath, and one step at a time.

In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with two of my former students from six years ago, Kyler “Ube” and Francisco “Chamoy.” Back then, I was just a long-term substitute teacher still figuring out if I even had what it took to be in the classroom full-time. We clicked right away though, and reconnecting with them now in front of microphones felt surreal. We talked about how much we’ve all changed, the lessons we’ve picked up along the way, and the impact we’ve had on one another.

This episode is full of laughs, honesty, and reflection. It brought back memories of those early teaching days, reminded me why I keep doing this work, and gave me motivation to push forward with my dreams. Out of all the conversations I’ve recorded so far, this one stands out as a favorite — a reminder that growth is real and that sometimes the best help you get really does come from helping others.

Life can throw us curveballs, and Devin Kinney’s story is a powerful reminder of how those unexpected turns can be transformed into lessons of growth. In this episode, Devin shares his journey with raw honesty, opening up about struggles that shaped him and the resilience it took to move forward. His words—especially through the poetry he reads—cut to the core, offering a perspective that blends hardship with hope, and pain with purpose.

As I listened back to this conversation, I found myself tearing up when Devin read one of his poems. The moment was real, fragile, and deeply moving, reminding me just how much we have to be grateful for in life. This interview captures not only Devin’s strength and creativity but also the importance of vulnerability, connection, and gratitude in the face of adversity. It’s one of the deepest moments I’ve had on the podcast so far, and I’m honored to share it with you.

Keilokei is one of the original creators of Slay Squad, the groundbreaking collective known for fusing hip hop, metal, and raw street energy into what they call “Ghetto Metal.” In this episode, he opens up about the vision and drive behind the music, sharing what it takes to carve out a unique space in an industry that often resists anything outside the norm. With unshakable authenticity, Keilokei talks about pushing boundaries, building a movement, and staying rooted in the passion that first inspired him to create.

Beyond the music, Keilokei offers insight into life itself — from the struggles that shape us to the determination required to keep moving forward. His perspective reveals not only the grit behind his artistry but also the deeper philosophy that fuels his journey. This episode highlights the voice of a creator who continues to inspire others to embrace their own path, no matter how unconventional or challenging it may be.

In this powerful installment of The Max Ross Podcast, I sit down with Kayden Muzila—Creative Director, Photographer, and Digital Designer—whose life story resonates with both raw vulnerability and creative triumph. Moments before pressing record, I almost let fear and insecurities derail this conversation—but I chose courage instead. Kayden opens up about hitting the bottom: battling addiction, suicidal thoughts, and crushing self‑doubt. Yet through vision and tenacity, he transformed those darkest moments into a thriving creative path that inspires from the trenches.

This isn’t just another success story—it’s a deeply relatable journey of resilience, transformation, and authenticity. Kayden doesn’t stand above us; he stands with us—sharing honest reflections on the pits we all face and how to climb out. His insights offer hope and practical wisdom, not only for those in recovery but for anyone seeking creative clarity and emotional strength. I'm grateful to take another step forward with this episode—and I'm honored to share Kayden’s story with you. Tune in to experience truth, transformation, and the power of keeping your ego in check.

In this episode, I sit down with my new friend Don Barbour — a conversation that started with uncertainty and ended with a real sense of brotherhood. I met Don just a week before we recorded, and something about his energy told me he had a story worth sharing. Still, as I drove down to San Clemente, that familiar voice of doubt started creeping in — telling me the interview might be awkward, short, or that I’d freeze up mid-conversation. It’s the same voice that pops up when I’m teaching, dating, or doing anything that matters. But once again, that voice was wrong.

What followed was nearly two hours of honest, open dialogue that left me feeling energized and grateful. Don shared stories that reminded me of how capable we all are of rising from our lowest points and growing into something far greater than we imagined. I left that day knowing I had gained not just an episode, but a new connection — someone I now consider a brother. This conversation pushed me past fear and up another step toward my potential. I hope it inspires you to do the same.

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Daniel Garcia — or as I’ve always known him, Rabbit. We go way back, over a decade, to a time when life felt heavier and more uncertain. Rabbit was one of the first people to call me “brother,” and even though we’re not related by blood, the connection we built has always felt real. His love for music, the way he creates it and connects with it, inspired me early on in my own journey. Through all the ups and downs, he’s remained open-minded, supportive, and solid — and getting to record this with him after all these years felt like a full-circle moment.

We were both tired — me from driving around the IE, and him coming straight from work — but something real still came through. As I listened back, I noticed moments where I cut him off, and yeah, I regretted it. But I’m learning to embrace these imperfections as part of my growth, as part of the process of becoming not just a better host, but a better human. After we wrapped, I drove away listening to Bob Dylan’s Times They Are A-Changin’ and found myself tearing up. That drive, that moment, and this conversation reminded me of the beauty of growth, friendship, and staying true to those who’ve helped shape us. This one’s for Rabbit.

In this episode, I sit down with my former college professor, Barbara Thomason — an artist, mentor, and truth-teller who played a major role in shaping who I am today. Barbara is known for her technical mastery, fearless critiques, and her ability to push students beyond what they thought was possible.

We talk about the creative journey, the discipline behind great art, and the importance of staying honest — both with yourself and your work. It felt surreal to reconnect with her as an adult and fellow artist, and to reflect on how her guidance helped turn my dreams into something real.

If you're a creative, a student, or someone chasing a vision, this episode is packed with the kind of perspective and wisdom that can reignite your drive. Talent is just the seed — the real breakthrough comes from effort, humility, and mentors like Barbara.

In this episode, I sit down with my best friend of 15 years, Patrick Christensen — aka Peete — during my trip to California. We dive into stories from our past, the ups and downs of our friendship, and the unspoken bonds that form when you've truly been through it all with someone. This conversation is full of laughs, reflections, and a whole lot of heart. It’s about showing love while we can and recognizing the people who help shape who we are. Tune in and share a few laughs (and maybe a gut punch of emotion) with us.

In this powerful episode of The Max Ross Podcast, I sit down with my friend Kevin Block — an attorney whose life took a dramatic turn after a couple of near-death experiences that completely altered his perspective. Kevin shares raw, intense stories that left me genuinely speechless, including moments where life could have ended in an instant. These experiences didn’t just shake him — they gave him a deeper clarity about what truly matters and how to live with intention.

What unfolded in this conversation was more than just storytelling. It was a reminder of how fragile life is, how quickly things can change, and how gratitude often grows from the most unexpected places. Kevin’s journey will not only keep you on the edge of your seat — it might just help you see your own life with fresh eyes. This episode left me feeling grounded, inspired, and even more grateful to keep this podcast going.