What Shapes Us

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.Follow us:Tony Hawk: @tonyhawkSelema Masekela: @selemaWhat Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast

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.Follow us:Tyler Bereman: @tylerberemanSelema Masekela: @selemaWhat Shapes Us Podcast: @whatshapesuspodcast

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.Follow us:Gabby Reece: @gabbyreeceSelema Masekela: @selemaWhat Shapes Us: @whatshapesuspodcast

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: @kateplusfateSelema Masekela: @selema #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.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 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.Follow:Coan “Buddy” Nichols: ⁠@coanbuddynicholsSelema Masekela: ⁠@selema⁠What Shapes Us: ⁠@whatshapesuspodcast⁠

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

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

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 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