Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – Interview with Tyshawn Jones
Episode Information:
- Title: INTERVIEW: Tyshawn Jones On Being The First Black Pro Skateboarder, Louis Vuitton; Virgil Abloh, Tony Hawk +More
- Release Date: February 18, 2025
- Host/Authors: DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, Jess Hilarious, Lauren LaRosa
Introduction
In this captivating episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, Jess Hilarious, and Lauren LaRosa sit down with Tyshawn Jones, a trailblazing professional skateboarder recognized as the first Black pro in the sport. The conversation delves deep into Tyshawn's journey, his groundbreaking role in skateboarding, collaborations with iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, his relationship with the late Virgil Abloh, and his perspectives on the evolving landscape of skateboarding.
Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding
Tyshawn Jones shares an engaging story about how his passion for skateboarding ignited during his childhood in Jersey. Inspired by playing skateboarding video games, Tyshawn explains how this virtual interest translated into real-life action.
[09:55] Tyshawn Jones: "I started playing the video games, and when I played the game, we were like, I was like, really? In the video games. We didn't really go outside. I lived in Jersey at this time, and I learned about skateboarding, kind of, like the tricks and stuff from playing the video game."
Encouraged by his mother, Tyshawn took his first steps into the skateboarding world by purchasing his own skateboard at the age of nine or ten, marking the beginning of what would become a lifelong passion and profession.
Becoming a Professional Skateboarder
The hosts inquire about Tyshawn's path to becoming a professional skateboarder. Tyshawn breaks down the phases akin to those in basketball: flow (high school), amateur (college), and pro (NBA).
[03:00] Tyshawn Jones: "It's just a company, a board company has to turn you pro."
He emphasizes the role of sponsorships in achieving professional status, explaining that being sponsored by a reputable skateboard company like Zoo York is pivotal in this transition.
Career Highlights and Collaborations
Tyshawn discusses his significant collaborations, notably with Louis Vuitton and his late friend Virgil Abloh. He recounts their plans to collaborate on a project that never materialized due to Virgil's untimely passing.
[18:16] Tyshawn Jones: "We were actually working on something before he passed away. It never came to light. But yeah, Virgil was cool. We would talk and we were gonna do a collaboration with my brand and Off-White that we were working on."
Additionally, Tyshawn shares an exhilarating anecdote about jumping over a multi-million-dollar Ferrari in Manhattan, highlighting his daring nature and the lengths he goes to push the boundaries of skateboarding.
Challenges and Experiences
A particularly memorable segment features Tyshawn narrating an incident in Paris where he was confronted aggressively while biking. This confrontation, though initially tense, turned into a humorous story as Tyshawn chose to share it publicly.
[04:04] Jess Hilarious: "I first heard about you, sadly through some drama when you got kicked in fucking Paris."
[09:24] Tyshawn Jones: "I was playing. I was trolling. I was just messing around. I knew why he did it."
He reflects on how such experiences, while challenging, have shaped his resilience and approach to life both on and off the skateboard.
Cultural Impact and Representation
The discussion shifts to the representation of Black athletes in skateboarding. Tyshawn expresses pride in his role and acknowledges the relatively few Black professional skateboarders, highlighting the importance of visibility and cultural acceptance.
[27:14] Tyshawn Jones: "I wouldn't say, like, in a brand space. I mean, obviously, I've experienced, like, weird things throughout my career."
He addresses the occasional discrimination faced within the sport and underscores the need for greater diversity and inclusion in skateboarding.
Future of Skateboarding and Personal Evolution
Looking ahead, Tyshawn shares his aspirations for pushing the limits of skateboarding and fostering its growth. He envisions skateboarding gaining more mainstream acceptance and potentially being integrated into events like the Olympics.
[24:02] Tyshawn Jones: "I just think it's limitless, you know. Like, I try to make it relatable because skateboarding, to me, is so... you don't understand it. You just see, like, somebody flying in the air."
Tyshawn also discusses his efforts to create a private indoor skate park to facilitate the learning of new tricks away from public scrutiny, aiming to inspire the next generation of skaters.
Conclusion
The interview concludes with heartfelt appreciation from the hosts, recognizing Tyshawn's contributions to skateboarding and his role as a mentor and influencer. Tyshawn expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share his story and emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and connected to his roots.
[36:07] Tyshawn Jones: "I watch The Breakfast Club on YouTube. I be on YouTube when I go home and I watch you guys stuff. So really appreciate you having me."
Notable Quotes
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On Becoming Pro:
[03:00] Tyshawn Jones: "It's just a company, a board company has to turn you pro."
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On Resilience:
[23:00] Tyshawn Jones: "Skateboarding teaches like a life lesson. You have to keep going to get over the hurdle."
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On Cultural Impact:
[27:14] Tyshawn Jones: "I wouldn't make it like a race thing. Like, oh, it's so diverse."
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On Future Aspirations:
[24:02] Tyshawn Jones: "I think the sky's the limit."
Final Thoughts
Tyshawn Jones's interview on The Breakfast Club offers an in-depth look into the life of a pioneering Black skateboarder navigating the intersections of sports, culture, and fashion. His stories of perseverance, cultural impact, and visionary outlook provide valuable insights for both fans and aspiring athletes. This episode not only celebrates Tyshawn's achievements but also underscores the evolving dynamics of skateboarding as it gains broader recognition and inclusivity.