Podcast
What Shapes Us
Hosted by Rebel Talk Network · EN
What Shapes Us is an exploration into the incidents and accidents that shape us into being. Selema Masekela, a relentlessly curious narrator of the human experience, takes us on a journey through personal anecdotes from his own life and in depth, conversational exchanges with a wide landscape of dynamic and interesting individuals. Athletes, activists, artists, critical thinkers, disruptors; anyone with a unique perspective on this thing called life, is welcome to contribute answers to the always evolving question...What Shapes Us
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
22: Monica Medellin on Redefining Sports Storytelling
Feb 28, 2025Tap to summarizeOn 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 She reflects on navigating the industry, challenging outdated narratives, and carving out space for women in front of and behind the camera.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
Transcribe →19: Zeb Powell on Shaping Snowboarding's Future
Feb 7, 2025Tap to summarizeIn 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
Transcribe →18: Lucy Osinski on Building Community and Redefining Skate Culture
Jan 24, 2025Tap to summarizeIn 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
Transcribe →17: Victor Montalvo on Family, Culture, and Olympic Glory
Jan 17, 2025Tap to summarizeIn 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
Transcribe →16: Ian Walsh on Fear, Resilience, and Big Wave Surfing
Jan 10, 2025Tap to summarizeIn 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
Transcribe →14: Justin Williams on Redefining Cycling Culture
Dec 20, 2024Tap to summarizeOn 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
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