When I first came across Devin Hype, I was walking through NAMM and saw him on stage showcasing his talents. I was just starting For The Rotation and knew that I wanted him on my show as a guest. A year later, I set a goal to ask as many DJs One Question for Inspiration. My question was, what is the one thing you have learned throughout your career that you can share with others on how to achieve their dreams? His answer was phenomenal and blew me away. You can find his answer on our YouTube Shorts or social media, but after capturing that moment, we exchanged information, and the rest is history. This episode is truly special and offers a wealth of knowledge. We will chronologically go through his life and milestones as you learn about the determination, mindset, inspiration, and consistency that can lead you to success. You also learn that it’s okay to not know where you are going, just as long as you continue to work in something you are passionate about. Join me as we dive deep into the life of Devin Hype and uncover how he did it all, For The Rotation!Guest: Devin Hype
https://www.instagram.com/devinhype/
https://www.youtube.com/@DevinHype
https://www.tiktok.com/@devinhype
Booking Email: Bookings@BrokeButTalented.com
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.instagram.com/any1canpodcast/
Email: ace@fortherotation.com
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/frzafr/
https://www.tiktok.com/@frzadj
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
For The Rotation Links:
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.threads.net/@fortherotation/
https://rumble.com/user/ForTheRotation
https://open.spotify.com/show/01jzZerYauI7J0PrCqh5GQFor
For The Rotation Merch Ad:
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
10% Off Code: FTR1
Stand+ Shoes Ad:
15% Off Code: FTR1
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Anyone Can Podcast Ad:
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15% Off Code: FTR1Timestamps:
(00:00) – Intro
(01:30) – Falling in Love with Music
(02:21) – Radio Obsession
(03:19) – First “Decks"
(05:09) – Skating Rink Era
(06:32) – Fuel from Doubters
(08:55) – First Personal Turntables at 21
(11:48) – Ad – FTR Merch
(12:18) – Why Scarcity Made Him Better
(14:10) – Radio Tapes & Submissions
(17:00) – Landing 99.1; Fired After 2 Months; Door Opens to Tour DJ Life
(18:58) – Lighter Shade of Brown Touring 2015–2021
(22:01) – Study Everything; “Make Your Own Luck”
(24:57) – Mindset After Setbacks; Betting on Yourself
(26:29) – Ad – Stand+ Shoes
(27:26) – Reinvention; Targeting Yelawolf via Social Content
(30:13) – Present Phase: Unsure by Design; Missing Live Energy vs. Content Fatigue & Post-Show “Come-Down”
(36:27) – Coping with Lows: Acceptance, Letting Emotions Pass
(37:27) – Using Social as a Timeline; “Suck Less” Over Time; Building Character/Look; 2022 Confidence Click
(41:49) – From Fan to Peer: Beat Junkies/Icy Ice Stories; Becoming an “Active Character” in DJ Culture
(43:21) – Ad – Anyone Can Podcast
(44:22) – Defining Resilience: Not Giving Up; Drive from “Not Having”; Still Questioning, Still Moving
(47:01) – Stepping into Production; Learning Curve
(49:59) – Rejection & Motivation; Quick Ideas vs. Over-Produced Content
(50:47) – Biggest Shift: Yelawolf Era; Wanting His Own Fans
(53:41) – Giving Back to the Craft: Real DJing, Skill First; Evolving the Look/Persona with Intention
(59:12) – Advice to Younger Self: Don’t Quit; Study the History, Respect the Roots
(1:01:33) – Gratitude & “Next Phase”
(1:02:09) – Outro
Last year, I had the opportunity to work with DJ WeirdoWithSoul on my stage, and I was blown away by her talent for captivating the audience with her mixing, presence, and song selection. During a brief conversation, I learned about her journey of becoming a DJ, and I knew I had to bring her on the podcast to share her inspiring story with all of you. This world-traveling DJ has a story that relates to anyone with a dream they desire to achieve. As we explore her journey, you will learn the power of investing in yourself and how she overcame obstacles with belief and persistence. She shares how she achieved goals with a "don't stop" mindset to create synchronicity and reveal her purpose. This episode shares the power of taking a difficult moment in your life to motivate you to drive toward your deepest desires and achieve your goals. Please subscribe to our channel and visit our website for more inspiration.
Links to DJ WeirdoWithSoul:
https://www.weirdowithsoul.com/
https://www.instagram.com/weirdowithsoul/
https://www.instagram.com/delasoundsofsa/
https://www.facebook.com/maya.milana
https://x.com/WeirdoWithSoul
https://www.tiktok.com/@djweirdowithsoul
https://youtu.be/j1hEYSBwMo4
https://youtu.be/ozLH3-nBpGkhttps://youtu.be/CvtlOZ5tqj8
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(01:17) - Raised with House Music, I Play the Turntable, Working in PR
(05:00) - This was the night, Synchronicity, Following the Sign
(07:35) - Investing in Self, Post My Process, Finding My Mentor
(11:17) - I Used My Time, Honed My Craft, I Trained My Muscle Memory
(15:20) - I Practiced, The Calls Started Coming In, Public Relations
(18:00) - Not In the Plan, Life Flow, Transition Through Synchronicity
(21:20) - Putting Out The Energy, Be Intentional, Resilience
(23:30) - The Journey was Difficult, Things Get Removed, Process & Accept
(26:00) - Go Up & Out, Don't Wallow, I Pursued It
(29:01) - Giving Back, Girls Make Beats, Best Feeling Ever
(35:40) - What Comes Next, Curating My Own, Evolving
(38:10) - Your Younger Self
(42:00) - How Can You Find WeirdoWithSoul?, Unique
(43:30) - Outro
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.snapchat.com/add/fortherotation/
When I met OG Rod Gee a year ago, I briefly learned about his accomplishments and his knowledge of the radio broadcasting industry. Our conversation was short but impactful, and I knew he had a story that needed to be shared on For The Rotation. In this interview, you will learn about his transformative story and how your passion chooses you when you least expect it. He shares how a strong work ethic and openness to change and adaptation led him to become the video producer on a nationally syndicated show called "The Wake Up Show." Rod Gee is forever evolving and is a perfect example of what you can accomplish with a "can-do" mindset while holding yourself accountable. This episode will inspire you to dig deep into your desires and surface your passion to manifest the life of your dreams.
Links to OG Rod Gee:
https://www.instagram.com/rodgee/https://www.tiktok.com/@ogrodgee
https://www.instagram.com/stillwateroldies/
https://www.facebook.com/rodgee1
https://www.twitch.tv/ogrodgee
https://www.youtube.com/@Rodgee
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(01:16) - 10,000 Records, Beat Street, Hip-Hop
(05:09) - 4 Years Ago, Security, Electrophysiologist
(08:13) - Sunday Basketball, Tangible, King Tech
(13:25) - Little Tasks, Opportunities, The Transition
(16:33) - The Passion Unfolds, The Camera, Video Production
(19:40) - We Just Do, The Career Change, Sway Into Television
(23:41) - I Owe It All To Hip-Hop, The DJ, Intimidation
(26:41) - I Could Never Be A DJ, Stream Live, Accountable
(28:10) - My DJ Life Changed, My Favorite DJ, Confidence
(30:45) - Your Younger Self
(32:30) - How To Find OG Rod Gee
(34:41) - Outro
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
While growing up in Los Angeles, I studied DJ Melo-D, mixing on the radio almost every evening. He quickly became my favorite DJ with his intricate scratches and flawless mixes, where he introduced songs that established many artists' careers in the L.A. Hip-Hop scene. His story speaks volumes about finding what you love to do and driving it with passion. During our conversation, you will learn about his relentless mindset of chasing his dream, putting his education first, and completing his college career while finding his purpose. He shares his peaks and valleys, as well as how he overcame his challenges with determination. This episode hits all the notes, but most importantly, you will learn the importance of being prepared when life presents you with the opportunity to live your dream.
Links to DJ Melo-D:
https://www.instagram.com/djmelod/
https://www.instagram.com/madefromskratchpizza/
https://www.youtube.com/@OGDJMeloD
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro 01:27 - Finding Music, Records, The Turntable
(08:35) - Determination (That Want), Forming a Crew
(10:07) - The First Gig, The Scratch, I Can Do This
(14:00) - Study & Focus, College, Practice, Finding a Balance
(18:50) - The Beat Junkies, Sharing Ideas, Finding Like-Minded People
(23:12) - Getting Inspired, Part of the Environment, Bring Some Records
(26:53) - Obsession to Perfection, Being Prepared
(29:49) - Winning Battles, Getting Noticed, Julio G, I Got a Job
(34:14) - Right Place & Right Time, How Prepared Are You?
(35:17) - Resilience, Take a Break, Gain Perspective
(39:04) - DJ AM, Las Vegas, We're Stuck, Overcoming Challenges
(46:33) - Questioning Yourself, Staying Grounded, Inspiration
(49:15) - The Gimmee Record, Being Remembered
(52:13) - Back to the Bedroom DJ, Giving Back, Made From Skratch
(57:12) - Your Younger Self
(59:04) - How to Find DJ Melo-D
(01:00:35) - Outro
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.snapchat.com/add/fortherotation/
When a friend introduced me to Nick Hayes on Instagram, I was immediately impressed and knew I had to share his story with you. Join me as I delve into the extraordinary and motivational life of Nick Hayes and why he's named The Last DJ. His journey illustrates that it's never too late to follow your dreams and that evolving is essential to achieving your goals. We will explore his beginnings in electronic music and how his passion inspired him to become a techno producer. Nick's "can-do" mindset will inspire you, and you'll learn why letting go of your "book of excuses" is crucial to pursuing your dreams. His story exemplifies what is possible for anyone willing to strive for their aspirations and move forward without looking back.
This episode streamed live on 3/25/25
Links to The Last DJ (Nick Hayes):
https://www.youtube.com/@thelastdj/
https://www.instagram.com/the_last_dj_
https://www.tiktok.com/@musicsounddesign
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0vs4NkFUIWZFyYHXVU7IoQ
https://www.threads.net/@the_last_dj_
https://soundcloud.com/last-dj-702556113
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.snapchat.com/add/fortherotation/
We couldn't fit it all in one, so we had to make a part 2. In this episode, DJ Qbert expands on topics discussed in part 1 and dives deep into events that shaped his career. This freeform conversation will take you through many stories, experiences, and words of guidance on how to sustain a successful career. It also dives into the progression of DJ technology to share expert advice for aspiring DJs and enthusiasts. It's one of my favorite interviews because it has no structure and allows DJ Qbert to share his wisdom and humor, which he carries into random topics. There is so much to learn from this man, as well as tons of knowledge and inspiration in this episode.
Links to DJ Qbert:
https://www.djqbert.com/
https://www.instagram.com/djqbert/
https://www.instagram.com/thudrumble/
https://www.facebook.com/skratchdjqbert
https://www.tiktok.com/@djqbert1
https://x.com/DJQbert
https://www.youtube.com/@thudrumble
Join me as I explore the inspirational life of DJ Qbert, who has transformed the world of music with his turntables as his instrument. We will dive deep into his humble beginnings and the challenges he faced, highlighting how his determination and resilience have shaped his career and continued innovation in turntablism. Throughout our conversation, you will discover the power of combining imagination with spirituality, which can help you channel your inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams. DJ Qbert will share his thought processes and how he navigates his creativity to maintain a successful career. Listening to his story will emphasize the importance of giving back to your craft and how to connect yourself to the universe to strengthen your path to success.
Links to DJ Qbert:
https://www.djqbert.com/
https://www.instagram.com/djqbert/
https://www.instagram.com/thudrumble/
https://www.facebook.com/skratchdjqbert
https://www.tiktok.com/@djqbert1
https://x.com/DJQbert
https://www.youtube.com/@thudrumble
Join me as we explore the life of LABellatini, a dynamic and talented DJ, production curator, and positivity activist. Her story will share how to find freedom through creativity and the importance of utilizing your network to navigate a career successfully. She will take us on a chronological journey of resilience and strength to share how she continues to manage a career in film, television, and DJing. Through her story, you will learn how to develop a forward-thinking mindset, embrace your inner passions to spread positivity and channel your purpose to achieve independence in your career.
Links to DJ LABellatini:
https://labellatini.wixsite.com/website
https://sites.google.com/view/labellatini
https://www.instagram.com/labellatini/
https://www.tiktok.com/@labellatini
Join me as I explore the incredible journey of Michael Motion, an accomplished DJ, multimedia broadcast producer, sound designer, and influencer. His story will share how to hold on to a dream and never let go to achieve your purpose with compromise and sacrifice. He will take us through his journey chronologically, showing us how his dedication, commitment, tenacity, creativity, and endurance helped him achieve his dream career. By listening to his story, you will understand the importance of adapting to changing circumstances, making the most of every opportunity, and tapping into your inner strength to take your career to the next level.
Links to DJ Michael Motion:
https://www.instagram.com/michaelmotion/
https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelmotion
https://www.twitch.tv/djmichaelmotion
Discover the inspiring journey of DJ Mamabear, who has turned her passion for music into a successful lifelong career. Her story is rich with moments that will motivate you to keep striving for your dreams and never give up. We will delve deep into her experiences and present them chronologically to illustrate the transformative moments that have defined her success as a DJ. As you listen to her story, you will learn the importance of adapting to change, the power of resilience, staying true to your passions, and the significance of paying it forward to receive happiness in return. DJ Mamabear's narrative will inspire you to pursue your dreams, learn from your failures, and encourage you to turn your passion into a sustainable career.
Links to DJ Mamabear:
https://www.instagram.com/mmmamabearrr/
https://www.dublab.com/djs/mamabear
Timestamps:
(00:00) – Intro
(01:17) – Early Music Memories, First Concert, Family Influence
(03:39) – Selling Mix CDs, LimeWire Era, High School Hustle
(04:40) – First Turntables, Getting Hit by a Car, Buying Gear
(07:55) – Meeting Her Mentor, Learning to Blend, DJ Philosophy
(10:51) – Realizing the Dream, Becoming a DJ, Authenticity
(13:29) – All Vinyl Journey, Developing Her Sound, DJ Residencies
(17:04) – DJing Full-Time, Burnout, Losing Joy in the Craft
(20:18) – Rediscovery, Transitioning to Audio Design & Curation
(25:49) – DJing Today, Vinyl vs Digital, Staying Intentional
(29:32) – Evolving Career, Resilience, Overcoming Criticism
(34:01) – Doing It for the Music, Giving Back, Paying It Forward
(40:08) – Being a Woman in DJ Culture, Diversity, Inclusion
(46:17) – Staying Professional, Standing Out, Skill Over Gimmick
(48:10) – Current Practice, Buying Records, Bandcamp Fridays
(51:16) – Future Vision, Hospitality & Curated Sound Experiences
(55:38) – Final Thoughts, Where to Find DJ Mamabear
(57:36) – Outro
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.snapchat.com/add/fortherotation/
Take a deep dive into the career of the legendary live production guru, DJ, video producer, and audio engineer Jack Monforte. His humbling story will inspire and motivate you to navigate life's adversities and persevere in your career. Together, we'll take a chronological journey through his transformative experience, from when he first fell in love with music to how he discovered his true passion in live production. Jack will share how he overcame his obstacles and empowered himself with resilience to push through the most challenging moments of his life. Listening to his story will motivate you to succeed, commit to your abilities, and find your purpose by staying true to your passions.
Links to Jack Monforte:
https://www.monfortemultimedia.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(00:39) - Meet Jack Monforte, Early Music Influence, First Turntables
(04:03) - Record Collecting, Bedroom DJ Beginnings, Finding a DJ Partner
(07:26) - First Parties, Gaining Confidence, Motivation Through Struggle
(09:29) - House Party Lessons, Learning Programming, Love for House Music
(12:38) - Moving to Alaska, Throwing Events, Building from Scratch
(15:59) - Renting a Hangar, Booking Talent, Growth Through Vision
(17:23) - Life Setbacks, Losing His Father, Pushing Through the Dark
(20:01) - Back to DJing, Mixtapes, Rebuilding in LA
(21:55) - Career Paths, Multimedia Work, Creating Opportunities
(25:10) - Selective DJing, Staying Inspired, Evolving with the Music
(27:52) - Programming Tips, Reading the Crowd, DJ Philosophy
(31:22) - Women in DJ Culture, Diversity and Inclusion
(33:06) - What Resilience Means, Creating Your Own Table
(34:45) - Current Role at Grand Performances
(35:41) - Where to Find Jack
(36:36) - Final Thoughts & Outro
Host: Azhar "Ace" Hai
https://www.instagram.com/ac3hai/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
Music: Adam Murakami
https://www.instagram.com/elfourza/
https://www.tiktok.com/@elfourza
Production Manager: Jack Monforte
https://www.instagram.com/jackmonforte/
Video Production Manager: Pablo Aguilar
https://www.instagram.com/pabloaguilarstudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pablitomas
Links to For The Rotation:
https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation
https://www.fortherotation.com/
https://www.fortherotation.com/merch/
https://www.instagram.com/fortherotation/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552192755579
https://www.tiktok.com/@fortherotation/
https://www.snapchat.com/add/fortherotation/
Introducing For The Rotation, a podcast that aims to educate, motivate, inspire, and drive its audience to accomplish their goals, dreams, and aspirations by uncovering a DJ's story to success. Every Wednesday, we will share new stories that transcend music, weaving through the highs, the lows, and the transformative power of resilience. Join me as we explore the rhythm of accomplishment, turn obstacles into opportunities, and learn how my guests did it all "For The Rotation."
Please subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@ForTheRotation to receive notifications when new episodes are released.
We will stream our episodes on our Twitch channel https://www.twitch.tv/fortherotation every Wednesday at 6 pm PST.
Please visit our website https://www.fortherotation.com/ to access and view additional content and show support by purchasing some cool merch from https://www.fortherotation.com/merch