The Hardcore Therapist 124- Thomas Vanderpol (What it Meant, Dying For It)

Today’s guest is Thomas Vanderpol. Thomas is a dad, HR professional, ethical vegan, and straight edge since forever. Originally from Redding, California and now based in Portland, Oregon, he brings a lifetime of lived experience inside hardcore and punk both on and off the stage. With a deep background in touring, songwriting, and label work, Thomas has co-managed a record label and continues to write for bands, labels, zines, blogs, and social media, crafting everything from interviews and reviews to bios and press releases. At the core of everything he does is a commitment to Youth Crew, straight edge, skatepunk, and the belief that hardcore should be diverse, inclusive, and accountable. Thomas isn’t just talking about change in the scene he’s actively helping shape it.