“The Nine Club” podcast has become a cornerstone of the skateboarding community, offering unparalleled access into the lives and careers of skateboarding’s most influential figures. Founded in 2016 by professional skateboarder Chris Roberts, the podcast, co-hosted by Kelly Hart and Roger Bagley, dives deep into the personal stories, experiences, and perspectives of guests ranging from legendary icons to emerging talents. Known for its laid-back, conversational style, “The Nine Club” resonates deeply with skateboarders and fans globally, preserving skateboarding history and culture in an engaging audio format.
Beyond interviews, “The Nine Club” has expanded its reach with segments like “The Nine Club Experience” and “Stop And Chat,” enriching its content and offering diverse formats for its dedicated audience. Revered for its authentic representation of skateboarding culture, the podcast has garnered a significant and loyal following. For those looking to immerse themselves in the world of skateboarding, here are ten essential episodes of “The Nine Club” that every enthusiast should tune into.
1. Chad Muska – Episode #159: The Icon’s Journey from Streets to Stardom
Episode 159 with Chad Muska is a captivating exploration of a true skateboarding icon’s life. Muska recounts his formative years growing up in Arizona and Las Vegas, leading to his pivotal move to San Diego and his early days of raw street skating, even sleeping on the beach. He vividly describes getting sponsored by Maple Skateboards, marking the beginning of his professional journey. This episode is essential for understanding the grit and determination behind Muska’s rise to fame and his enduring impact on skateboarding culture. His stories offer a unique look into the dedication required to succeed in skateboarding and the evolution of street skating.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
2. Mike Vallely – Episode #138: From Punk Rock Roots to Skateboarding Legend
In episode #138, Mike Vallely provides a raw and compelling narrative of his life, starting from his New Jersey roots and his early exposure to punk rock, including attending his first Black Flag show. He delves into his transition into skateboarding and his groundbreaking opportunity to join Powell-Peralta, a pivotal moment in his career. Vallely’s episode beautifully illustrates the powerful intersection of music and skateboarding culture, showcasing how both worlds fueled his passion and shaped his unique approach to skateboarding and life. His outspoken nature and dedication to skateboarding are on full display, making this episode a must-listen.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
3. Tony Hawk – Episode #100: The Birdman’s Century Episode
Episode #100 marks a special milestone with Tony Hawk, the most recognizable name in skateboarding. Hawk shares the heartwarming story of how his brother gifted him his first skateboard, setting him on a path to legendary status, even landing his skateboard in the Smithsonian. He reflects on his formative years with the Bones Brigade and recounts his most iconic skateboarding achievements and innovations. This episode is not just a celebration of Hawk’s career but also a deep dive into the history of modern skateboarding and the evolution of vert skating. It’s an inspiring episode for anyone passionate about skateboarding history.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
4. Paul Schmitt – Episode #174: The Professor of Skateboarding Innovation
Paul Schmitt, featured in episode #174, is often referred to as the “Professor” for his deep knowledge and innovative contributions to skateboarding technology. He discusses his early life in La Crosse, Wisconsin, his move to Tampa, and his groundbreaking work with wood and fiberglass in skateboarding rails and board construction. Schmitt’s insights into skateboard design and manufacturing are incredibly detailed and fascinating, especially for those interested in the technical aspects of skateboarding gear. This episode is a treasure trove of information for gear enthusiasts and anyone curious about the science behind skateboarding.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
5. Paul Rodriguez – Episode #12: P-Rod’s Early Days and Business Ventures
Episode #12 features Paul Rodriguez, affectionately known as P-Rod, who discusses his entry into the world of skateboarding, his entrepreneurial ventures like St. Archers Brewing Company, and his early career with City Stars. This episode offers a comprehensive look at Rodriguez’s multifaceted career, highlighting not only his skateboarding prowess but also his business acumen and contributions to skateboarding culture beyond just riding. It’s a compelling story of how a skateboarder can successfully navigate both professional sports and business.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
6. Andrew Reynolds – Episode #55: The Boss’s Florida Roots and Skateboarding Journey
Andrew Reynolds, “The Boss,” is the focus of episode #55, where he recounts his upbringing in Florida, his first sponsorship with G&S, and his pivotal experiences riding for Birdhouse. Reynolds’ journey through skateboarding is both inspiring and deeply insightful, revealing the personal and professional challenges and triumphs that shaped his legendary career. His episode provides a candid look at the dedication and resilience required to reach the top of professional skateboarding.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
7. Steve Caballero – Episode #155: A Skateboarding Pioneer’s Story
Steve Caballero in episode #155 shares his experiences growing up in San Jose, California, joining Powell Peralta at the young age of 15, and his early experiences in amateur competitions. Caballero’s episode is a historical journey back to the early days of skateboarding, offering a firsthand account of its evolution from a niche pastime to a global phenomenon. His stories are invaluable for understanding the roots of skateboarding and the contributions of its early pioneers.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
8. Bam Margera – Episode #70: From West Chester to Global Stardom
Bam Margera’s episode, #70, is a wild ride through his childhood in West Chester, Pennsylvania, his entry into Toy Machine, and his experiences filming for the iconic “Jump Off A Building” video. Margera’s unique blend of skateboarding talent and entertainment personality is vividly portrayed, offering listeners a glimpse into his unconventional path to fame and his significant impact on skateboarding and pop culture. This episode is particularly engaging for those interested in the crossover between skateboarding and entertainment media.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
9. Bob Burnquist – Episode #162: A Global Perspective on Skateboarding
Bob Burnquist’s episode #162 takes listeners on an international journey, from his upbringing in São Paulo, Brazil, to turning pro for Urgh Skateboards at just 14, and his eventual move to San Francisco. Burnquist’s global perspective enriches the skateboarding narrative, highlighting the international growth and diverse influences within the skateboarding world. His innovative approach to skatepark design and his unique style make this episode particularly inspiring for aspiring pro skaters worldwide.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
10. Nasty Neckface – Episode #167: Skateboarding Meets Street Art
Episode #167, featuring Nasty Neckface, offers a departure from typical skateboarding stories by exploring the intersection of skateboarding and street art. Neckface discusses his upbringing in Northern California, his initial foray into graffiti, and the development of his distinctive artistic identity. This episode bridges the gap between skateboarding and the broader art world, illustrating how skateboarding culture influences and is influenced by various forms of creative expression. It’s a fascinating look at the artistic side of skateboarding culture.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
Each of these “Nine Club” episodes provides a unique and valuable window into the skateboarding world, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and unwavering passion that defines this vibrant culture. For anyone interested in the history, personalities, and evolution of skateboarding, these episodes are not just listens—they are essential experiences. Dive into these conversations and enrich your understanding and appreciation of skateboarding.
Chad Muska Nine Club Episode
Contributed by Ruben Vee, seasoned skateboarder and content editor for LongBoards Guide.
