Episode Details

Some icons dominate multiple industries, leaving their mark not on just one part of society, but on all of society. Mike Vallely is the Founder of Street Plant Skateboards and the lead singer of rock band Black Flag.

Mike revolutionized the way society embraces skateboarding and skateboarding culture while he built a side career as a singer, playing with some of punk’s greatest artists.  

Mike joined Fran Racioppi on the last day of the GORUCK Games to share his personal story, how he had to borrow skateboards to teach himself to ride, why going as hard as you can whenever you have a chance is a recipe for success, and what he has learned leading generations of punk rockers and skateboarders to skate, create and enjoy.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Mike shares his decision to become “punk” (5:58)

-Mike describes his entry into skateboarding after viewing a Thrasher magazine and accepting a challenge to jump off a car. (9:35) 

-Street skating was pioneered as Mike went pro with Powell-Peralta and has evolved across culture, proficiency and skateboard design. (28:24)

-Fran asks Mike to describe the creativity and expression behind skateboard artwork, including his first design, the African Elephant. (38:50)