In this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with South African surfer and creative soul Mikey February (@mikeyfebruary) for a conversation about carving your own path—on and off the board.
From competitive circuits to free-surfing liberation, Mikey opens up about how music, community, and his Cape Town roots have shaped his fluid style and global perspective. The two explore how Mikey redefined success in surfing by stepping away from the rigid structure of contests, embracing his role as a cultural connector, and allowing intuition and joy to guide his work.
Expect stories of purpose-driven travel, soul-infused style, and reflections on what it means to create movement—through art, water, and life.
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Host: @selema
Guest: @mikeyfebruary
Show: @whatshapesuspodcast
From Olympic podiums to personal pivots, Jagger Eaton (@jaggereaton) joins Selema Masekela on What Shapes Us for a raw and real conversation about what it takes to thrive in the pressure cooker of pro skateboarding. They dive into the mental toll of being the “youngest ever,” the lonely road of elite competition, and the surprising ways self-worth evolves outside of contest results. Jagger opens up about learning to slow down, rediscovering his love for skating, and building an identity not just on the board, but beyond it.
Whether you're chasing medals or meaning, this one’s for anyone redefining success on their own terms.
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Jagger Eaton: @jaggereaton
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
In this illuminating episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela (@selema) sits down with documentary filmmaker, activist, and lifelong runner Faith Briggs Rose (@faithbriggs) to explore the intersection of identity, storytelling, and the outdoors. From running across national parks in This Land to co-directing award-winning films like Bearlike, Faith shares what it means to chase truth and community through movement.
She opens up about navigating predominantly white outdoor spaces as a woman of color, the responsibility of shaping narratives from behind the lens, and how becoming a mother reshaped her relationship with creativity and time. With warmth, curiosity, and conviction, Faith reminds us that the act of storytelling—much like running—isn’t always about speed. It’s about endurance, direction, and showing up for the long haul.
Social Media Tags:
Faith Briggs Rose: @faithbriggs
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
In this colorful and captivating episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela (@selema) sits down with Olympic skateboarder and radiant free spirit Bryce Wettstein (@brycewettstein) to explore what it means to live, skate, and dream with unfiltered imagination. Known for her whimsical style and lyrical soul, Bryce opens up about growing up in Encinitas, navigating the competitive world of skateboarding, and why she approaches life more like a poem than a performance.
They discuss the evolution of women’s skateboarding, her experience competing in the Tokyo Olympics, and how self-expression, creativity, and joy remain her guiding forces both on and off the board. Whether she’s playing the ukulele or carving backyard bowls, Bryce embodies the beauty of staying uniquely you.
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Bryce Wettstein: @brycewettstein
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #BryceWettstein #Skateboarding #OlympicSkater #CreativeAthlete #WomenInSkateboarding #FreeSpirit #SkateLikeAGirl #SelemaMasekela #SkateCulture #LiveYourPoem
In this powerful episode of What Shapes Us Selema Masekela (@selema) sits down with Olympic gold medalist and alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn (@lindseyvonn) for an intimate conversation about identity reinvention and the mental toll of greatness. Lindsey reflects on her journey from a fearless kid on the slopes of Minnesota to becoming one of the most decorated skiers in history and what happened when the racing stopped.
With vulnerability and insight she opens up about navigating injury fame depression and the pressure to constantly prove herself. Selema and Lindsey dive deep into what it means to grieve the loss of your former self the healing that comes with stillness and how she’s finding new purpose through entrepreneurship writing and giving back through the Lindsey Vonn Foundation.
Whether you're a fan of sports resilience or real conversations about evolving beyond a singular identity this episode offers hard won wisdom and inspiring perspective.
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Lindsey Vonn: @lindseyvonn
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
In this captivating episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela (@selema) sits down with professional surfer and storyteller Koa Smith (@koasmith) for an intimate conversation about surfing, spirituality, and finding resilience through adversity. Koa recounts growing up on the North Shore of Kauai, chasing waves with childhood heroes, and making the pivotal choice to step away from competitive surfing in favor of exploration and creative expression.
Koa opens up about the trauma and recovery from a life threatening head injury, sharing how plant medicine, meditation, and listening to his inner voice reshaped his path. Together, he and Selema reflect on vulnerability, the nature of addiction and ego, and the deep lessons gleaned from moments of crisis.
Through stories of chasing perfect barrels, long rehab sessions, and spiritual breakthroughs, this conversation reminds us that healing is an ongoing journey and one that can illuminate new ways to connect, create, and live authentically.
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Koa Smith: @koasmith
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #KoaSmith #Surfing #BigWaveSurfing #HeadInjury #HealingJourney #PlantMedicine #ConsciousLiving #SurfCulture #Vulnerability #MentalHealth #SpiritualGrowth #SelemaMasekela #OceanConnection #AuthenticLiving
In this heartfelt episode of What Shapes Us Selema Masekela (@selema) sits down with Olympic snowboarder and global icon Chloe Kim (@chloekim) for a powerful conversation about what happens behind the gold medals. Chloe opens up about the intense pressure of performing on the world stage as a teenager the isolation that came with fame and her decision to step away from competition to prioritize her mental health.
From family sacrifice and cultural identity to therapy and rediscovering joy Chloe shares what it took to reclaim her voice and rewrite her relationship with snowboarding on her own terms. Vulnerable grounded and wise beyond her years this is a side of Chloe Kim you rarely get to hear.
Social Media Tags:
Chloe Kim: @chloekim
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #ChloeKim #MentalHealthMatters #OlympicChampion #Snowboarding #GenZVoices #AsianAmericanStories #WomenInSports #SelemaMasekela #VulnerabilityIsStrength #WhatShapesUsPodcast
In this episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela talks with photographer, journalist, and surfer Gabriella Angotti-Jones (@ga.briella) about carving space in the often-exclusive world of surf media and doing it with radical honesty. Gabriella opens up about growing up as a Black surfer in Southern California, breaking into legacy newsrooms, and why she left it all behind to tell stories on her own terms.
Her stunning photo memoir I Just Wanna Surf blends raw surf culture with intimate explorations of race, gender, joy, and burnout. In this conversation, Gabriella shares how the ocean became both refuge and rebellion, and why creative freedom especially for women of color is worth fighting for.
🎞️ Order Gabriella’s book: gabriellaangojo.rocks
Social Media Tags:
Gabriella Angotti-Jones: @ga.briella
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #GabriellaAngottiJones #IJustWannaSurf #SurfCulture #WomenInMedia #BlackSurfers #PhotoJournalism #SurfPhotography #SelemaMasekela #RepresentationMatters #WomenWhoCreate #WhatShapesUsPodcast
In this deeply moving episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with professional skier, visual artist, and filmmaker Chris Benchetler (@chrisbenchetler) to explore a life shaped by mountains, creativity, and unwavering love. From his legendary skiing career and collaborative art projects with The Grateful Dead to co-parenting and creating through his wife Kimmy Fasani’s cancer battle, Chris shares an emotional and inspiring journey about purpose, resilience, and radical support.
The two discuss fatherhood, the healing power of nature, and the story behind the acclaimed documentary Butterfly in a Blizzard an intimate portrait of Kimmy's cancer diagnosis and their evolving love story. Chris opens up about choosing family over ego, finding catharsis through creativity, and how his latest film project Mountains of the Moon honors the spirit of late NBA legend Bill Walton.
Whether you’re an artist, athlete, partner, or parent, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what it means to show up, let go, and keep carving your line through life’s hardest terrain.
Social Media Tags:
Chris Benchetler: @chrisbenchetler
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
In this soul-stirring episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with cultural shape-shifter Trevor Andrew (@troubleandrew)—Olympic snowboarder, musician, visual artist, and the creator behind the globally recognized persona Gucci Ghost. From dropping into the halfpipe at the Nagano Olympics to dropping genre-defying albums and art installations, Trevor reflects on a life fueled by fearless creativity and obsessive passion.
Trevor opens up about leaving Nova Scotia at 14, visualizing success in spaces where he was told he didn’t belong, and how snowboarding gave him the mental strength to push boundaries in music and art. With humility and humor, he talks about fatherhood, artistic integrity, finding purpose in pain, and embracing a fluid identity in a world that wants you to choose a lane.
Whether you’re a skater, creator, parent, or just someone figuring out how to chase your vision with everything you've got—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Social Media Tags:
Trevor Andrew: @troubleandrew
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
Hashtags:
#WhatShapesUs #TrevorAndrew #GucciGhost #Snowboarding #OlympianArtist #CreativeJourney #SelemaMasekela #GucciGhostArt #AltCulture #FearlessCreativity #SkateAndCreate #WhatShapesUsPodcast
In this special episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with the most iconic figure in skateboarding history, Tony Hawk (@tonyhawk). Together, they dive deep into the incredible journey that took Tony from a bullied kid hiding his skateboard in high school to the global pioneer who changed action sports forever. Tony shares raw, powerful stories about the highs and lows of his career: from the near-collapse of skateboarding in the early '90s, to the life-changing night he landed the first-ever 900, to the unexpected explosion of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game.
Beyond the tricks and trophies, this conversation is about perseverance, community, and building a culture that now belongs to everyone. Whether you're a lifelong skater, an X Games fan, or someone who appreciates stories of grit and evolution, this episode captures a rare look inside the mind of a true cultural architect.
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Tony Hawk: @tonyhawk
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #TonyHawk #Skateboarding #XGames #TonyHawkProSkater #SkateCulture #ActionSports #SkatingLegends #SelemaMasekela #Resilience #SkateboardingHistory #ExtremeSports #CulturalIcons
In this emotional and adrenaline-charged episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with freestyle motocross legend Tyler Bereman (@tylerbereman) for an unforgettable conversation about risk, legacy, and healing. From his preschool dreams of going pro to 14 X Games medals, Tyler opens up about his deep-rooted passion for two wheels, the influence of his family’s racing lineage, and his relentless pursuit of creativity through freeriding.
But this episode goes far beyond dirt bikes. Tyler gets real about the toll of repeated injuries, including devastating concussions, and the quiet battle with mental health that followed. He shares how grief, therapy, and a commitment to self-work helped him heal from trauma—and why projects like Red Bull Imagination and Zion’s House are reshaping how athletes approach performance, purpose, and vulnerability.
Whether you’re a fan of motorsports, an athlete dealing with your own mental health, or someone who’s just looking for a powerful story of grit and growth—this one’s for you.
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Tyler Bereman: @tylerbereman
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #TylerBereman #FreestyleMotocross #RedBullImagination #MentalHealthAwareness #MotocrossCulture #XGames #ActionSports #SelemaMasekela #TwoWheelTherapy #ZionsHouse #HealingThroughSport
In this profound episode of What Shapes Us, Selema Masekela sits down with legendary athlete, wellness leader, and unapologetic truth-teller Gabrielle Reece (@gabbyreece). From dominating the volleyball court to shaping the future of wellness with XPT and Laird Superfood, Gabby opens up about the evolution of her identity—athlete, partner, mother, entrepreneur—and how she navigates leadership, reinvention, and vulnerability across every chapter. She shares intimate reflections on her marriage with Laird Hamilton, building community through challenge, and the power of showing up fully as yourself. With wisdom earned through decades of high performance and human connection, Gabby’s insights go far beyond fitness—this is about how to live, lead, and love with intention.
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Gabby Reece: @gabbyreece
Selema Masekela: @selema
What Shapes Us: @whatshapesuspodcast
#WhatShapesUs #GabbyReece #WellnessLeadership #XPT #GabbyAndLaird #WomenInWellness #HighPerformanceLiving #SelemaMasekela #Reinvention #CuriosityAndCourage #ModernRenaissanceWoman
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:
#WhatShapesUs #KateCourtney #Cycling #MountainBiking #OlympicAthlete #SheSense #HighPerformance #SportsScience #SelemaMasekela #WomenInSports
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.
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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 sits down with legendary skate filmmaker Coan "Buddy" Nichols (@coanbuddynichols) 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, Coan 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.
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Coan “Buddy” Nichols: @coanbuddynichols
Selema Masekela: @selema
#WhatShapesUs #Coan Nichols #SixStair #Skateboarding #SkateCulture #Filmmaking #SkateFilms #DIYFilmmaking #StorytellingThroughSkate #SelemaMasekela
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.
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#WhatShapesUs #ChaseHall #ArtAndIdentity #CulturalNarratives #SelemaMasekela #BlackArtists #ArtThatSpeaks #SkateCulture #Surfing #Subcultures #StorytellingThroughArt
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.
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#WhatShapesUs #ZebPowell #Snowboarding #XGames #CreativeExpression #BlackAthletes #SelemaMasekela #OutdoorSports #BreakingBarriers
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.
Social Media:
#WhatShapesUs #LucyOsinski #GirlsSwirl #WomenInSkateboarding #CommunityBuilding #SkateCulture #SelemaMasekela #Empowerment #InspiringStories
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.
Social Media Tags:
#WhatShapesUs #VictorMontalvo #BreakingOlympics #HipHopCulture #Breakdancing #ArtAndSport #OlympicJourney #SelemaMasekela #InspiringStories #BboyCulture
