What Shapes Us (Rebel Talk Network)

On this episode of What Shapes Us Selema welcomes Brick Howze. Brick is a 26-year-old musician, producer, and founder of Black Sand, a surf and arts collective in LA. In this deep dive interview Brick tells his story about what shaped him into creative power Howze he has become.

In this powerful episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with world champion mountain biker Kate Courtney (@kateplusfate) to dive into the relentless pursuit of greatness. From the early days of racing in California to becoming a global force in cycling, Kate shares how she’s navigated the highs and lows of competition, including the pressures of Olympic qualification, overcoming setbacks, and redefining success on her own terms. She opens up about the evolving landscape of women’s sports, the impact of research on female athletes, and her mission to empower the next generation through the SheSense Foundation. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan of high-performance sports, or someone looking for insight on resilience and long-term growth, this episode is packed with inspiration.

Social Media Tags:

• Kate Courtney: @kateplusfate
• Selema Masekela: @selema

#WhatShapesUs #KateCourtney #Cycling #MountainBiking #OlympicAthlete #SheSense #HighPerformance #SportsScience #SelemaMasekela #WomenInSports

Selema brings a conversation he had at the Redbull At Work Tent-pole event. He talked to three athletes - Dassy Lee, Kate Cortney, Justin William- about their breaking norms in their surrounding and culture, finding their passion and discovering they can do it as a career, and how to build routine for your mental state.

Join host Selema Mabena Masekela on What Shapes Us as he dives deep into the inspiring journey of Briana King, a trailblazing model, skater, and community builder. From her roots in Los Angeles to skating through the streets of New York, Brianna shares how she turned adversity into strength, embracing her unique path as a Black woman in skateboarding. Discover how she challenges societal norms, cultivates spaces for inclusivity, and empowers others to find their voice and purpose through fearless self-expression. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of community.

Follow:

• Briana King: ⁠@brianaking
• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast

On this episode of the What Shapes Us podcast Chad Caruso shares his electrifying journey through the streets, parks, and ramps that have shaped his remarkable career. As a professional skateboarder with over a decade of experience under his belt, Chad brings a unique perspective to the mic. This episode isn't just about tricks and flips – it's a deep exploration of the culture, art, and mindset that drive the skating community.

Welcome to the What Shapes Us Podcast. Here is a taste of whats to come this season. Subscribe now where ever you get your podcast. 

In this thrilling episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela chats with Zeb Powell (@zebpowelll), the groundbreaking snowboarder who’s redefining style and creativity on the slopes. Zeb shares his journey from humble beginnings at Cataloochee Ski Area to becoming an X Games gold medalist and global icon. He reflects on the challenges of growing up as a Black snowboarder, the inspiration behind his unorthodox style, and the lessons he’s learned through resilience, artistry, and staying true to himself. Whether you’re a snowboard enthusiast or someone seeking a story of grit and authenticity, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to hit your own metaphorical slopes.

Follow:

• Zeb Powell: @zebpowelll
• Selema Masekela: @selema

• What Shapes Us: @whatshapesuspodcast

#WhatShapesUs #ZebPowell #Snowboarding #XGames #CreativeExpression #BlackAthletes #SelemaMasekela #OutdoorSports #BreakingBarriers

The ocean has a deep meaning to me and in this episode I get into why surfing and the ocean is so imbedded in who I am as a human being. That is why on this episode I’m beyond ecstatic about our guest, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. She is a marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and Brooklyn native. She is founder and CEO of Ocean Collectiv, Urban Ocean Lab, and co-created the Blue New Deal. She also has a new book out available to preorder called, “All We Can Save” about the climate movement, and solutions to lead humanity forward. We talk about how she found her life’s work, and what her visions are for the future.

Selema is opening up his Covid Files to show you an interview he did with legendary photographer Atiba Jefferson. Selema goes into their history of when they first met at Atiba’s skate shop. Atiba moving out to California to follow his dream of being a photographer for skaters. And advice for those coming out of Covid what they can do to get out of the slump that we all slipped into. 

Check out Atiba Jefferson work IG @atibaphoto 

Join us for an inspiring episode of the What Shapes Us podcast as we sit down with Nora Vasconcellos, the trailblazing American professional skateboarder hailing from Pembroke, Massachusetts. In this in-depth interview, we peel back the layers of Nora's incredible journey, exploring the highs, the challenges, and the sheer determination that has propelled her to become one of the most influential figures in the skateboarding world.

In this compelling episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with legendary big wave surfer Ian Walsh (@ian.walsh) to explore the mental, physical, and emotional depths of riding some of the world’s biggest waves. Ian opens up about his journey growing up on Maui, the meticulous preparation required for big wave surfing, and how he balances fear and focus to perform under extreme pressure. Beyond the ocean, Ian reflects on the challenges of supporting his partner through a life-changing health journey, sharing lessons of resilience, community, and the power of a strong support system. Whether you’re a fan of surfing, adventure sports, or stories of grit and humanity, this episode will leave you inspired.

Follow:

• Ian Walsh: @ian.walsh

• Selema Masekela: ⁠⁠@selema⁠⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠⁠⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠⁠⁠

On this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with filmmaker, executive producer, and media trailblazer Monica Medellin (@monicamedellin_) to discuss her mission to expand narratives around women and people of color in sports. From her early days at the World Surf League to creating Surf Girls Hawaii with Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, Monica shares her journey of storytelling, resilience, and representation in action sports. She reflects on navigating the industry, challenging outdated narratives, and carving out space for women in front of and behind the camera. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, athlete, or just love compelling stories about pushing boundaries, this conversation is a must-listen.

Follow:

• Monica Medellin: ⁠@monicamedellin_⁠

• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠

  
  

#WhatShapesUs #MonicaMedellin #WomenInSports #SurfGirlsHawaii #SportsMedia #RepresentationMatters #ActionSports #DiversityInMedia #Filmmaking #SelemaMasekela

In this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela welcomes British running coach, Apple Fitness+ trainer, and community leader Cory Wharton-Malcolm (@bitbeefy) to discuss the transformative power of running. Cory shares his journey from South London to inspiring runners worldwide, delving into how he overcame self-doubt, embraced discomfort, and found a spiritual connection through movement. With anecdotes ranging from marathon training to community-building initiatives, Cory unpacks the mental, physical, and emotional benefits of running. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a curious beginner, this conversation will leave you motivated to lace up your sneakers and explore your own potential. Tune in for a deep dive into resilience, purpose, and the surprising ways running can transform lives.

Follow:

• Cory Wharton-Malcolm: @bitbeefy

• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast

#WhatShapesUs #CoryWhartonMalcolm #Running #AppleFitness #CommunityLeadership #FitnessMotivation #OutsideMagazine #RunningCommunity

In this insightful episode of What Shapes Us, Masekela sits down with multidisciplinary artist Chase Hall (@hallchase), whose work challenges perceptions of race, history, and identity through a deeply personal and thought-provoking lens. From his unconventional journey in the art world to his love of surfing, skating, and snowboarding, Chase explores how subcultures and movement have shaped his creative process. He reflects on his early influences, the intersections of Black identity and outdoor culture, and how coffee became a medium for storytelling in his groundbreaking paintings. Whether you’re an art lover, a creative thinker, or someone fascinated by the collision of culture and history, this episode is a must-listen.

Follow:

• Chase Hall: ⁠⁠@hallchase⁠⁠

• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠
• What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠

#WhatShapesUs #ChaseHall #ArtAndIdentity #CulturalNarratives #SelemaMasekela #BlackArtists #ArtThatSpeaks #SkateCulture #Surfing #Subcultures #StorytellingThroughArt

What makes you a Kook? Jon Rose takes us on a global adventure of how he fell into global relief effort and created Waves for Water. Selema also brings his past and why Jon chose adventrue as escape, enjoying your aging and the wisdom it brings, and finding your passion. 

In this electrifying episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with Victor Montalvo (@bboyviction), the groundbreaking b-boy who won the first-ever Olympic bronze medal for breaking at the Paris Games. From his roots in Kissimmee, Florida, to becoming a global ambassador for breakdancing, Victor shares his incredible journey of resilience, cultural pride, and artistic innovation. Discover how his family’s love for breaking inspired his path, his experience navigating the world stage, and how he balances tradition with reinvention in a fast-evolving art form. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about grit, creativity, and the future of breaking on the global stage.

Follow:

• Victor Montalvo: @bboyviction

• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠⁠⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠⁠⁠

#WhatShapesUs #VictorMontalvo #BreakingOlympics #HipHopCulture #Breakdancing #ArtAndSport #OlympicJourney #SelemaMasekela #InspiringStories #BboyCulture

This week Selema Talks to Joy Bryant After a 6 month hiatus, What Shapes Us returns! In this episode, Selema gets candid about why the podcast took such a long layoff and how the net effect of Covid, American race relations and the election took a definitive toll on his mental health. This week features a conversation between Selema and one of his dearest friends, the incredible actress and producer, Joy Bryant. Joy talks about her life growing up in the Bronx, the importance of her Grandmother, getting into and deciding to leave Yale and also the value of self belief when the stakes are high and the cards are dealt against you.

The loop Daddy himself Marc Rebillet joins Selema to talk about how he became an incredible force that took the internet by storm. They talk about what shaped his musical style, how Marc found what was important in his life during the lockdown, and how he got the queen herself Erykah Badu to do a livestream performance. All this and so much more on this episode of the What Shapes Us podcast.  

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In this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with legendary skate filmmaker Buddy Coan (@sixstair) to dive deep into the intersection of skateboarding, filmmaking, and the cultural movements that shaped both. From hacking newsroom editing suites to making some of the most iconic skate films, Buddy shares how his DIY ethos and passion for storytelling have kept him at the forefront of skate media for decades. He reflects on the evolution of skate culture, the impact of mythology in shaping its identity, and the unexpected twists that led to creating films that define generations of skaters. If you're fascinated by the creative process, underground culture, or the magic that happens when passion meets persistence, this episode is for you.

Follow:

• Buddy Coan: ⁠@sixstair⁠
• Selema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠   
• What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠

#WhatShapesUs #BuddyCoan #SixStair #Skateboarding #SkateCulture #Filmmaking #SkateFilms #DIYFilmmaking #StorytellingThroughSkate #SelemaMasekela

Motivation was stifled during the pandemic and artists where ether going into a creative hyphenation or found ways to recenter them self and reevaluate their creativity. Our guests, Louis the Child and PineappleCITI, talk through how they took on quarantine and what challenges they faced musically with it. How they stayed motivated and even rediscovered it. 

In this empowering episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela welcomes Lucy Osinski (@lucy.osinski), co-founder of Girl Swirl, the world’s largest women’s skateboarding collective. Lucy shares her incredible journey from a professional ballerina to an influential community leader, highlighting the transformative power of skateboarding. Discover how she and her team of trailblazers have built a global movement focused on inclusion, empowerment, and philanthropy. From teaching kids in orphanages to hosting worldwide skate meetups, Lucy talks about breaking stereotypes and creating spaces where women can thrive and celebrate their individuality. Join us for a conversation filled with inspiration, resilience, and the pursuit of community-driven change.

Follow:⁠

• Lucy Osinski: @lucy.osinski
• Girl Swirl: @girlsswirl
• Selema Masekela: @selema

• What Shapes Us: ⁠⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠⁠

#WhatShapesUs #LucyOsinski #GirlsSwirl #WomenInSkateboarding #CommunityBuilding #SkateCulture #SelemaMasekela #Empowerment #InspiringStories

In this episode Selema reflects on the high stakes, polarizing dance that is the social media landscape  whilst musing on the stamina necessary to last in the podcast game. Selema proudly welcomes chef Matty Matheson for a raw and open conversation about pivoting, race, family, honesty and the importance of remaining true to who you are over everything else.

On this episode of the What Shapes Us Podcast Selema welcomes writer, actor, producer, director and close friend Radha Blank. Radha talks about how the pandemic gave her a new perspective on life. They talk about her movie "The Forty-Year-Old Version" and both Selema and Radha share family memories that shaped them into the creatives they are today. 

On this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela interviews Justin Williams, an elite cyclist and founder of the Legion of Los Angeles cycling team. Justin opens up about his journey from South Central LA to the pinnacle of criterium racing, all while breaking down barriers in a traditionally homogeneous sport. Learn how he built a community for underrepresented athletes, overcame the sport's systemic challenges, and redefined what it means to be a Black athlete in cycling. Justin’s passion for inclusivity, self-expression, and change brings a fresh perspective to the cycling world. Perfect for fans of outdoor sports, cultural change, and stories of resilience, this episode explores the intersections of race, identity, and community in cycling.

Follow:

• Justin Williams: ⁠⁠@⁠⁠juswilliamz
• Selema Masekela: ⁠⁠@selema⁠⁠

• What Shapes Us: ⁠⁠@whatshapesuspodcast