In this episode of "Might Delete Later Podcast," hosts Derrick and Shana welcome Melkez for a wide-ranging conversation. Melkez discusses the No Kings Rally, political activism, and the challenges of U.S. political messaging. The group also explores honesty in relationships, referencing clips from Cam Newton, and shares personal stories about awkward encounters. Melkez reflects on Sacramento’s hip hop scene, his journey as a b-boy, and the city’s hidden cultural influences. The episode blends political insight, relationship talk, and local hip hop history for an engaging, thought-provoking listen.
Introduction & No Kings Rally (00:00:11)
Hosts introduce Melkez; discuss the No Kings Rally, political activism, and the importance of protest.
California’s Political Influence & Electric Cars (00:01:15)
Melkez explains California’s impact on hybrid technology, the EV1, and the politics behind electric vehicles.
Protest Messaging & Media Spin (00:05:03)
Discussion on how protests are framed in the media, fear-mongering, and the struggle of Democrats with messaging.
Money in Politics & Citizens United (00:06:48)
Conversation about the influence of donors, Citizens United, and the shift from individual representation to donor-driven politics.
Truth in Labeling & Food Industry (00:07:50)
Melkez talks about food labeling laws, GMOs, and differences in food standards between the US and Europe.
Corporations, Shareholders, and Public Health (00:09:26)
Exploration of corporate responsibility, Dodge vs. Ford, and how shareholder interests affect public health and product safety.
Plastic Bags & Industry Influence (00:10:53)
Discussion on the politics of plastic bags, industry lobbying, and environmental impacts.
Cam Newton & Body Count Debate (00:11:47)
Transition to Cam Newton’s Breakfast Club interview about asking partners about their sexual history.
Clips & Reactions: Honesty in Relationships (00:12:27)
Clips from Cam Newton; panel discusses honesty, transparency, and the relevance of “body count” in relationships.
Personal Experiences with Disclosure (00:18:09)
Hosts and guest share personal stories about disclosing past relationships and the impact on trust.
Relationship Priorities & Social Life (00:23:54)
Shana reflects on prioritizing her relationship over socializing, and how her perspective has changed.
Concert Stories & Stockton Experiences (00:24:25)
Hosts share stories about attending concerts, events in Stockton, and the dangers of nightlife photography.
Stockton’s Economic Stagnation (00:27:50)
Melkez discusses the lack of development in Stockton, local business challenges, and possible reasons for stagnation.
Melkez Background & Sacramento Hip Hop (00:29:15)
Melkez shares his upbringing in South Sacramento, school experiences, and early involvement in hip hop culture.
Transition from Gang Life to Dance (00:30:37)
Melkez describes moving from gang influences to dance, and how it shaped his life.
Hip Hop History & B-Boy Culture (00:34:05)
Deep dive into hip hop origins, the role of B-Boys, DJ innovations, and foundational figures in the culture.
Graffiti, Crews, and Local Legends (00:38:45)
Stories about graffiti, forming dance crews, and connections to notable hip hop figures.
Entrepreneurship: Brainstorm & T-Shirt Business (00:42:43)
Melkez recounts starting his T-shirt business, early hustles, and lessons from high school entrepreneurship.
Closing & Where to Find Melkez (00:47:00)
Wrap-up, Melkez shares his social media, music, and local Sacramento music scene recommendations.
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