Highsnobiety Podcasts

We explore the history of the functional menswear mainstay the Arctic Parka. From the Arctic Circle and Alaskan Oil workers to hip-hop heads and Raf Simons collectors, the highly coveted parka is the cherry on the outerwear pie. Join cultural archivists Samutaro and Too Hot Limited's Ollie Evans as we dive into the parka's origins, the reasons behind its popularity, and how its functionality has lead to its essential status in our closets over the decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the NBA stage has become a new runway for flexing fits and footwear of the latest pedigree, it would be a crime to forget New York Knicks legend Walt “Clyde” Frazier. We’re used to seeing players trying to get crazy with their looks nowadays, but nobody could rock a wide-brim hat right after calmly icing a game-saving shot quite like Clyde – all in the same sneakers, of course. In our latest podcast with PUMA, Represent Yourself, we sat down with the two-time NBA Champion to talk about his colorful suit collection, supreme confidence, and what all of these staples of Frazier’s persona mean as direct results of his experiences. Now the NBA broadcaster stunts a wardrobe stocked with more prints and patterns than you can shake a Suede at, but to understand Clyde today, you have to learn about young Walt and when he first moved to New York: “I liked the way the guys were dressing. I liked what was going on. Once I became more popular as a basketball player, when I used to go out I’m always dressed up. Once I got the hat, the mink coats, it just started happening. I love New York – the style. You can be innovative, creative, and that’s why I love it still.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have two special guests on this week's episode. First up, Highsnobiety Editor-in-Chief, Thom Bettridge, calls in to discuss the hottest news in sneakers, fashion, and beyond. And then hip-hop legend, DJ Paul, joins us to dish on his new podcast, Mafia Radio. Led by host Noah Thomas, Thom begins the show by providing his thoughts on a number of high-profile sneaker collaborations, ranging from Vivienne Westwood's new ASICS, to Grace Wales Bonner x adidas and Aimé Leon Dore's obscure New Balance project. Next, the two delve into Reebok's appointment of Kerby Jean-Raymond as its Global Creative Director and Tyler, the Creator's message to fans regarding voting in the upcoming election. DJ Paul then joins the program to speak on his new podcast on Hot New Hip Hop, called Mafia Radio. The show will include interviews with celebrities, discussions on everything from music and fashion, to cars, real estate, and politics, and stories from the man himself on the younger, wilder days of Three 6 Mafia. Elsewhere on The Dropcast, DJ Paul touches on Three 6 Mafia's influence on the new generation of hip-hop, 2020 being a year for the hustlers, and his duties as the "hood newsman." Press play above to hear Thom Bettridge and DJ Paul on The Dropcast, and look out for Mafia Radio coming to Hot New Hip Hop in early-to-mid October. Relevant Links: YOU CAN NOW SHOP VIVIENNE WESTWOOD’S NET-EQUIPPED GEL-KAYANO 26 NIKE SB DUNK HIGH "INVERT CELTICS" IS TWO COLORWAYS IN ONE @louisvuitton and @nba announced their partnership in January, and here's a potential preview of their first collaborative Here’s your first look at the basketball-inspired B27 sneaker by  AIMÉ LEON DORE RESURRECTS A FORGOTTEN NEW BALANCE SNEAKER Grace Wales Bonner x adidas Marine serre ss21 A$AP ROCKY & TYLER, THE CREATOR SHOW YOU HOW TO STYLE NEW SEASON GUCCI KERBY JEAN-RAYMONAD IS REEBOK'S NEW GLOBAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR @feliciathegoat is urging his fans to vote in the upcoming election.  Hot New Hip Hop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For over a decade, SoundCloud has been a proving ground for up-and-coming artists looking to make it big in the music industry. From musicians like Post Malone and Kehlani to Billie Eilish and Lil Uzi Vert, the platform has been crucial for artists and fans alike looking to discover new music. On today’s episode of Vibe Check, we speak with Leon Sherman, the global editorial director at SoundCloud, as well as Orlando Urbina and Marshall Tan, founders of Washington, DC-based company GRVTY, as they discuss the inspiration behind their new fashion collaboration and how it came to fruition. The collab is all part of SoundCloud’s plan to inspire creativity and empower its community during these times of increased isolation from the Covid-19 pandemic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WhenSmokeClears® is a jewelery and fashion brand based in Los Angeles. Known for their varsity cardigans and “Radiant Heart” patches, the label was nearly destroyed in the nascent stages of their growth when a blaze took over the team’s apartment in their former New York base. Now, true to its name, the brand is thriving in LA, where it’s made the “Radiant Heart” logo a signature part of its aesthetic; one that speaks to the ability to overcome adversity by radiating love and positivity. You can check out their online store (and a new pair of patchwork-detailed jeans) here. We invited founders of the brand Thermal and Ksace to join host Noah Thomas to weigh in on some of the week’s hottest releases: the paisley Community Garden Dunks (“they look like something John Mayer would like”), Reebok’s divisive spin on the Chelsea boot, YEEZY slides, Vetements’ self-troll, Travis Scott’s high-calorie collab with McDonald’s, and Virgil Abloh’s new Mercedes. We also answer our deceptively simple QOTW: “High tops or Low tops?” Smash the play button above to hear our take. For a chance to hear yourself in a future episode of The Dropcast, peep Highsnobiety’s Instagram every Monday for the latest QOTW, then call The Dropcast Hotline at 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766) and leave an answer. We’ll catch you next week. Relevant Links: Each Pair of This “Community Gardens” Dunk Low Is Unique Reebok’s Chelsea Boot-Slash-Instapump Fury Is Not as Awful as It Sounds The adidas YEEZY 450 “Ophani” Could Be Kanye’s Next Slide Offering Nike Is Dropping a Blood-Soaked “Freddy Krueger” Air Max 95 Nike Tries to Extend Summer With the 2020 Nike Air Max 1 “Powerwall” Wait, Did Demna Gvasalia Just Rip Off…Demna Gvasalia? Virgil and Mercedes-Benz Want To Rebuild the Luxury Landscape, They Explain How Stop the Press: Kim Jones Is Joining Fendi Nugget Pillows & Menu Rugs…Travis Scott’s McDonald’s Merch Is Supersized Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For almost 40 years, Tommy Hilfiger has changed how young people around the world dress. Pushing the boundaries of what a fashion business looks like commercially as a true global brand that just last year generated $4.7 billion dollars in revenue. Business aside, the storied American brand reshaped what, and especially who, drove influence among youth culture. He was a pioneer in seeing musicians, especially hip hop artists, as powerful marketing vehicles that could culturally, and financially, create value for the business. First it was Grand Puba from hip hop band Brand Nubian, who shouted out the brand in a song with Mary J. Blige. Then came the rest. Britney Spears, Lenny Kravitz, Aaliyah, Destiny’s Child, Snoop Dogg the list goes on. Remember, this was at a time when fashion brands refused to work with hip hop artist, dismissing them as drivers of youth culture, and believing a too close association with predominantly black artists would be brand dilution. How times have changed for the better. I called up Tommy who during our call early on in lockdown was on his boat. We discussed it all, from the early days of Destiny’s Child and Aaliyah wearing the brand to what make up the new foundations of a successful fashion business all these years later.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we welcome Dexton Deboree, a filmmaker, branded content creator, and founder of Falcon content, Deboree has had the pleasure of working with a number of high-profile names from the Highsnobiety world, ranging from Virgil Abloh and Kim Jones, to Serena Williams and Michael Jordan. We begin our time with Dexton as he details how he’s been keeping his creative juices flowing during the pandemic. In between meditating, journaling, and reading, he admits he’s made a concerted effort to get a few ‘fits off, even if just for drives or walks. Deboree has had a hand in some of the most noteworthy projects from the past few years, including the Dior x Jordan campaign and Unbanned: the Legend of AJ1, the documentary exploring the history of the Air Jordan 1. During the podcast, he dishes on these initiatives, while also teasing his next documentary centered around one of the NBA’s hottest rookies. Elsewhere in the episode, Deboree delves into his filmmaking process, how he manages to land such coveted gigs, and working with some of the biggest names in fashion and sports.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spanish footballer player Hector Bellerin plays for both the Spanish national team and London footbal club Arsenal where he’s known for his attacking defense style of play. On the field, he’s known as one of the fastest players in the world, who just this month won his third FA Cup at Arsenal. Off the field, there’s a completely different side to Bellerin. He’s incredibly vocal about environmental issues in his interviews, frequently attends fashion shows, just last year he walked Louis Vuitton’s men’s show, after being hand selected by its Virgil Abloh and he was instrumental in making LA streetwear brand 424 the exclusive off-field outfitter of Arsenal. His public persona is in stark contrast to what we’re often used to from football players. He drives an electric car, he strictly buys vintage, and in his free time is taking a fashion business course. He says that Hector Bellerin on the field needs to be balanced with Hector Bellrin off the field for when the day comes when he does retire. I wanted to dig deeper into this so I called him up at his new house in the English countryside. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leading the way is Lucien Clarke x Louis Vuitton, as Virgil Abloh tapped the London-based skateboarder to help design the fashion house's first-ever skate shoe. Civilist’s Nike SB Dunk is another high-profile skate sneaker that's on the way, while Snow Peak has teamed up with New Balance for a three-in-one footwear collab that just makes sense. And let's not forget Virgil's forthcoming Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. We really hope it doesn't come with a huge red zip-tie. On the style front, we take some time to discuss NEIGHBORHOOD's FW20 collection that just dropped, as well as Aimé Leon Dore's new campaign starring friends and family of the brand. Also, is Dior Homme making its own movie? We think we deserve that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The art world is evolving, fast. What has long been considered one of the world’s most elitist societies, composed of high brow art dealers, collectors and artists, has slowly opened up. The digitization of art has not only changed the means in which art is experienced and sold, but it’s also evolved its aesthetic. Most of all, it’s democratized the playing field for a younger generation, one with its own curatorial taste and behaviors. Lucas Zwirner is highly aware of this shift, and it’s been this shift he’s been navigating through as head of content at David Zwirner gallery in New York, arguably one of the world’s most prestigious galleries that represents artists including everyone from Jeff Koons and Barbara Kruger to Raymond Pettibon and Jordan Wolfson. In his role, Lucas leads and creates a unified brand voice and editorial vision for the gallery, its publishing house, and its online platforms, deepening the conversation around the gallery’s artists, exhibitions, and projects through books, podcasts, video, web content, public programming, strategic partnerships, and online sales. I called him up from his New York apartment where we broke down the many ways in which the art world is opening up, and if, it’s really becoming more democratic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As creative director of his London-based namesake fashion label JW Anderson, and at Spanish luxury leather goods house Loewe, Jonathan Anderson has been on the front lines of the European fashion scene for over a decade. And unlike many of his peers, he’s been able to innovatively adapt to the ever changing landscape of luxury while keeping an ear out to the desires of the young, yet highly influential, generation of fashion shoppers that dictate the market today. Whether it’s sitting A$AP Rocky, Frank Ocean and photographer Tyler Mitchell front row at his Loewe shows and strategically launching youthful sub lines Paula’s Ibiza and Eye/LOEWE/Nature, to rethinking the entire show concept with his ‘shows in a box’ for both his brands and curating an entire art exhibition, Anderson continuously pushes the boundaries of what it means to be a creative director at a fashion house today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode, hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas take a quick second to talk about the upcoming U.S. election, and the severity of what’s at stake. After discussing the nomination of Kamala Harris as Joe Biden’s running mate, the conversation shifts to product-oriented fare, starting with sneakers tailor-made for the summer. There’s Aime Leon Dore’s crispy New Balance 1300 collab, with a rich green or dusty pink upper on top of a vintage-inspired sole, as well as Eric Emanuel’s clean Reebok Club C collaboration, combining a mostly white upper with a pop of color in the heel tab and inner lining. In style news, we discuss Virgil Abloh and Walter Van Beirendonck’s current beef, Futura’s fire CDG collab, and then discuss labels that were truly ahead of their time. Listen to the ep to find out who finally gets their roses. Relevant Links: Kanye West Gives Us a Look at Some Unreleased YEEZY Designs Aimé Leon Dore Teases Vintage-Inspired New Balance 1300 Collab Steph Curry Could Be Getting His Own Under Armour Brand Like Mike The Air Max Zoom 950 Should Be the Blueprint for All “Remade Classics” Eric Emanuel’s Reebok Club C is Primed for Everyday Wear sacai Gives Us Our Best Look at Its Upcoming Nike Collabs Soulland x Li-Ning Offers a Glimpse Into the Future of Running Sneakers A Look at Our Hair Future, According to Jawara Wauchope Virgil Abloh Addresses Walter Van Beirendonck Plagiarism Claims Futura’s New COMME des GARÇONS Collab Just Dropped Online I Never Heard of You Gives a Middle Finger to Corporate Streetwear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There would be no mainstream dancehall as we know it today without Sean Paul. The Sean Paul who created chart toppers including ‘Get Busy’, ‘ Temperature’ and ‘Baby Boy’ with Beyonce. The Sean Paul, who has been nominated for 8 Grammy’s and won the award for Best Reggae Album with his legendary album ‘Dutty Rock’. And the Sean Paul who all of us continue to play at house parties and the club. I wanted to hear a different side from him, and that we got. Today he still lives in Kingston, Jamaica where he’s from and it’s where I called him up to discuss everything from evolving your public image to mentorship for the next generation, and paying back to the culture that made him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Colm Dillane, better known as KidSuper, is a multi-disciplinary artist and designer who just threw one of the best digital fashion shows at Paris Fashion Week. Given the remote nature of this year’s proceedings, he hunkered down in the studio and cranked out a stop-motion fashion show featuring “celebrity” cameos and 1:6 scale versions of his gear. Some people succeed within the fashion system, and many succeed outside of it. KidSuper is the perfect example of the latter, and shares his own tips on building a universe, finding organic co-signs, and making the kind of world other people want to visit. Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gabe Ricioppo served as the creative director of Need Supply Co. and Totokaelo for over two decades. The Virginia native was instrumental in building Need Supply Co.’s digital identity and helped usher it into an era of e-commerce prominence out of Richmond, Virginia. In 2016, he was similarly tasked with helping out Totokaelo when it was acquired by Need’s parent company. Currently Ricioppo lives in Los Angeles and runs a creative agency called Supergravity, which operates between Paris and LA and includes clients like MATCHESFASHION. We talk about the early days of Need Supply, the growing pains he faced along the way, and the moment he decided to step away from it all and focus on his family, himself, and create new dreams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between all the fluff that is fashion, there is Robin Givhan. The American author and fashion critic of The Washington Post, whose cutting-edge journalism and objective reporting on the fashion industry stands out. It won her the Pulitzer Prize for criticism in 2006. She was the first ever fashion writer to receive it. Back then, the prize stated she won the award for “her witty, closely observed essays that transform fashion criticism into cultural criticism.” Givhan's writing for the Post is indeed refreshingly honest, she always cuts through the bs, and she makes the elusive world of fashion digestible for her reader. It's why I wanted to speak with Givhan about a wide range of topics around how influence is changing, especially at a time when the fashion industry, like all other sectors, is in flux. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brothers Terence and Kevin Kim are the duo behind futuristic Korean clothing label IISE. Their clothes take inspiration from Korean architecture and traditional garments like hanbok, updating the silhouettes with a futuristic lens and forward-thinking fabrics like GORE-TEX. Living in Seoul, they share how the country's lauded approach to combating Covid-19 has kept them ahead of the game. We also discuss how K-pop fandoms have used their platforms for good and advocating for social justice and causes like Black Lives Matter, and why even after a rise in anti-Asian sentiment during the spread of the pandemic, there's never been a better time to be Asian in the Western world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clara Jeon and Kenneth Loo are the founders of Chapter 2, an agency specializing in young designers. Among the brands they’ve helped turned into hyped household names? Rhuigi Villaseñor of RHUDE, Pyer Moss, and Reese Cooper. Their current roster includes Ev Bravado of WHO DECIDES WAR?, Toronto label making waves Mr. Saturday, and veteran skater-owned brand HUF. The industry veterans have worked just about every facet of the public relations business, and as such know all about how the industry can be more toxic than helpful. They share their advice on how younger brands can find their voice, and why having social media clout is nowhere near as effective as knowing what you want to say through your brand. Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nate Brown. is the founder of Studio Institute and the creative mind behind a ton of projects that touch the Highsnobiety world. Zack Bia is a young DJ and nightlife figure who’s done a little bit of everything behind-the-scenes, and recently got attention for the mind-blowing IG Lives he did with Pedro Cavaliere. In April, they launched the Work From Home Project ( 1:19), a new initiative mixing cool graphic tees with charitable donations to the CDC Foundation and No Kid Hungry. What started as a Slack group became a group effort to remain #OnlineTogether and create cool, charitable stuff while under quarantine. We discuss how most young people today already spend a majority of their time online (3:08), and why that will undoubtably lead to some very real paradigm shifts in the workforce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, hosts Noah Thomas and Jian DeLeon open up with a look at some of the latest in sneakers, including Brain Dead’s garden-inspired Reebok collab and the newest YEEZY Boost 380 that looks like a Fruity Pebble. Then we shift to the importance of supporting Black Trans Lives and the ongoing protests around the world continuing the fight for social justice. After outlining some action steps people can take, we tackle the two biggest news stories of the week: Matthew Williams’ appointment as creative director at Givenchy and Kanye West’s upcoming YEEZY cosmetics line, which will purportedly include toothpaste. Listen to the episode to hear speculation about what it tastes like. Relevant Links: Kerby-Jean Raymond On Defunding the Police: “Anything Else Isn’t Worth Talking About” The Next adidas YEEZY Boost 380 Drops This Week Here’s a Detailed Look at Brain Dead’s Wild Reebok Classic Leather Collab The Nike Air Jordan 6 “Hare” Finally Drops This Week Scooby Doo’s Iconic Mystery Machine Makes it Onto the Chuck ’70 Hi Cop Hender Scheme’s Luxe Leather Air Force 1s Right Here Pusha T & Virginia Williams Welcome First Child Together Thousands Showed Up to Support Black Trans Lives, Here’s How You Can Too New Petition Calls for CFDA to Amend Anti-Racism Initiatives Alicia Keys & John Legend to Face-Off in a Special Juneteenth Verzuz Battle Matthew Williams Joins Givenchy as Creative Director Sies Marjan to Close Its Doors You Could Soon Be Brushing Your Teeth With YEEZY Toothpaste Akon Just Announced a $6 Billion Construction Plan for Akon City Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beauty expert, plant daddy, and infectiously hilarious, it's no wonder why Bretman Rock has garnered a huge following for his online videos. The Philippine-born digital creator's name stems from two of his father's favorite wrestlers — Bret “The Hitman” Hart and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — and the resulting portmanteau is a decidedly Filipino baby naming convention. We caught up with him between squat reps, science vids, and tending to his growing garden to talk about his love for Crocs shoes, get a bit of fitness advice, and his unique experience growing up as a gay immigrant. Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it possible to still have the song of the summer even though we might not have a real summer at all? That's the challenge facing Kim Petras, whose undeniable bop “Malibu” is an infectious tune that aligns a little too well with aspirational trips to the beach and fizzy tropical drinks that leave you buzzed and a bit sugar high.Last month, she premiered the home edition of her music video for “Malibu,” shot on Zoom (1:53) and featuring cameos from some of her famous friends, including Paris Hilton, Charlie XCX, Jonathan Van Ness, Slayyyter, and many more. But even though Zoom parties can be fun, Petras admits it doesn't feel the same (3:22).Regardless, she's keeping her spirits high leading into pride month, and one of the things that's helping her get through these tough times? Internet culture and cringey meme accounts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLmn8qkqzJI Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it possible to still have the song of the summer even though we might not have a real summer at all? That's the challenge facing Kim Petras, whose undeniable bop “Malibu” is an infectious tune that aligns a little too well with aspirational trips to the beach and fizzy tropical drinks that leave you buzzed and a bit sugar high.Last month, she premiered the home edition of her music video for “Malibu,” shot on Zoom (1:53) and featuring cameos from some of her famous friends, including Paris Hilton, Charlie XCX, Jonathan Van Ness, Slayyyter, and many more. But even though Zoom parties can be fun, Petras admits it doesn't feel the same (3:22).Regardless, she's keeping her spirits high leading into pride month, and one of the things that's helping her get through these tough times? Internet culture and cringey meme accounts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLmn8qkqzJI Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, internal protests at adidas addressing the company's racist culture takes center stage. Hosts Noah Thomas and Jian DeLeon discuss the article we published earlier this week, outlining the need for an overhaul of how the company treats its Black employees. But it's not all bad news for the sneaker world, as SNEEZE magazine released a Reebok Club C (an adidas-owned company that certainly isn't faultless either) with all the proceeds going to Black Lives Matter. We also examine some of the better Nike releases this week, how Yelp is making it easier than ever to find Black-owned businesses, and why Philipp Plein is still a fuccboi for his latest BLM shenanigans. Relevant Links adidas Employees Protest Internal Racism SNEEZE Mag To Donate All Profits From Its Reebok Club C to BLM Nike’s Space Hippie Marks a New Era of Sustainable Product Michael Jordan & Jordan Brand Pledge $100 Million to the Black Community Tremaine Emory On Why He Won’t Release His Converse Collab Until Nike Changes Its Ways Another “Be True To Your School” Nike Dunk Drops This Week Nike & Drake Are Rumored to Drop a Air Force 1 Next Year This Is Your Best Look Yet at the Pharrell x adidas Originals Superstar Philipp Plein Is Using Black Lives Matter to Get Out of His Ferrari Lawsuit Lewis Hamilton Demands All Racist Statues are Torn Down Yelp Is Launching a New Black-Owned Businesses Feature KAWS Is Releasing a New Companion Figure in Support of Black Lives Matter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hussein Suleiman, Abderr Trabsini, and Jefferson Osei are the trio behind Daily Paper, the Amsterdam-born brand that started as a publication and became a movement of its own. With plans to make their US debut with a New York flagship store put on pause due to Covid-19 (4:23), they've had no choice but to up their e-commerce game considerably. Luckily that's something that comes natural to this crew — after all, Daily Paper started as a lifestyle blog before it became a full-on clothing label. It's something they're excited to return to with their UNITE hub (14:17), a place where they put everything from music playlists, staff profiles, and give a deeper look at the seasonal inspirations for each collection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, hosts Noah Thomas and Jian DeLeon change things up and get serious about the Black Lives Matter movement, social justice, and holding ourselves, our friends, our co-workers, and damn near everyone we know accountable. We understand the importance of keeping this energy not just 'til the November elections, but every day. Systematic oppression and institutionalized racism are two complicated forces that are difficult to fight, but we talk about the ways in which we've challenged ourselves to face them head-on. Noah opens up about his experiences as a young black man literally just trying to live, and the kind of fuckery people put up with on a regular basis just to ensure other people's comfort. And yeah — those days are done. Relevant Links: James Whitner On How Companies & People Can Step Up for the Black Community This Is Why People Are Calling to Defund the Police Here Are the Ways You Can Help Support Protesters in Minneapolis and Beyond How to Donate to Black Lives Matter if You’re Broke George Floyd’s Brother Wants You to Vote in the Primaries Today The End of Policing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Gibbs is the current owner and operator of UNION Los Angeles, purveyor of streetwear, sub rosa Japanese labels, and all around dope shit — like its in-house line that doesn't shy away from referencing his and his wife Bephie's black heritage. UNION isn't just a small business, it's a family business — and it's black-owned. Given the current state of America and social unrest over the unjust killings of people like George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, Gibbs gets real about how he feels as the father of two black teenage boys (1:50). In the wake of protests and uprisings across the country, he also empathizes with the righteous indignation of many protesters. In some ways, bringing streetwear back to its roots of community and culture might be the salve it needs. Hear his thoughts on how it's become commodified (11:08), and ways current events have reinforced his desire to give back to his community (22:19), even if it's something as simple as donating proceeds from a sneaker drop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Whitner is the founder of The Whitaker Grp, a black-owned retail company that owns boutiques like Social Status, A Ma Maniére, APB, and Prosper. An outspoken advocate for black business owners and civil rights, he recently penned an op-ed for Complex challenging companies in the streetwear/sneaker space and beyond to do more for the black community. He's also dedicating The Whitaker Grp's social media channels to thee #TWGBlackout, using them to suggest radical solutions and educate people on the issues currently plaguing the black community and what we can do to start solving problems from their root. Listen to the episode to find out how individuals and companies can hold themselves more accountable when it comes to contributing to the cause. Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of The Dropcast, hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas kick things off by discussing a previously unseen colorway of the sacai x Nike Vaporwaffle, a sneaker that looks like it was possibly made in a wafflemaker, just like mom (and Bill Bowerman) used to make! This colorway is kind of mid compared to the ones we've teased before, but it's hard to beat a white sneaker for summer. PLEASURES is also back with a new Reebok collab, taking the hippie-infused Beatnik and adding spider web motifs, resulting in a part mall-goth, part-vampire vibe that meshes well with UNDERCOVER's Spring/Summer 2020 collection. We also ask how we can make as much money as Joe Rogan has with Spotify (reselling sneakers are involved), before getting into the question of the week, which is tied to the release of Supreme's massive Mac Tools workstation that looks like it was stolen off a Fast & Furious movie set. We asked Dropcast listeners “What's the weirdest item you've ever copped from a brand?” and you guys didn't disappoint with your impulsive buying habits. Listen to the full episode above and weigh in on The Dropcast Hotline at 833-444-4766. Relevant Links A New Colorway of sacai’s Nike Vaporwaffle Surfaces Online The Nike Air Force 1 “Puerto Rico” Is Officially Coming Back The “Natural Grey” Air Jordan 1 From 1985 Could Be Returning Next Year Human Made & adidas Are Dropping More Stan Smiths Soon Kanye West Is Working on a New Album Elon Musk & Grimes’ Revised Baby Name Is Still Impossible to Pronounce Alessandro Michele Announces Gucci Is Going Seasonless Supreme’s Crazy Expensive Workstation Is the Ultimate Fuccboi Underwear Drawer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dashawn Jordan is the number five skater on the planet. The Arizona native was stoked to represent the United States on its first-ever Olympic skate team, until of course the Olympics got delayed. But he's not letting that bring his spirits down (5:04), and instead is focusing on some of the more positive sides of his recent decision to go pro. He just launched his first decks with Business & Company, and he's ridden for Nike SB for a while now, a flow team that comes with some excellent perks (6:48). Hopefully that'll lead to his own signature shoe, if not a collab now that we're in a new age of Nike SB. But Jordan's already got a few ideas for what his Dunk would look like (8:30). Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artist and clothing designer Greg Lauren is known for his wabi-sabi garments combining vintage Carhartt with cozy jersey knitwear, his penchant for old-school militaria, and collaborations with everyone from KITH's Ronnie Fieg to storied swimwear company Birdwell Beach Britches. But he's also done plenty of time as a fine artist, honing his illustration skills to portray superheroes like Batman and Superman (he's a staunch DC guy) in a different light, usually through dramatic charcoal on Japanese paper. These days, he's toggling between designer life and #dadlife, helping his son with fractions (1:20) while coming to terms with his kid's love for Marvel heroes. Speaking of heroes, he's also doing his part to help those on the frontline of Covid-19. A medical professional recommended ways to make masks out of air conditioning filters (8:34), which led to several Greg Lauren-designed masks. At the end of the day though, Lauren's glad to be in a place where he can continue to hone his creativity, and appreciates the return-to-roots perspective this time has given him (18:57), and he hopes others can find a similar sense of introspection. That was something that I've been exploring for 10 years. I would destroy luxury fabrics, put them through processes that were normally used on rugged, rough fabrics because I was trying to tear down some of the things that were put on such a pedestal, cashmeres and fabrics that were so expensive and so excessive. It's really strengthened what was already the beginning of a commitment to doing things differently, and not just for the aesthetic, but to have a more responsible approach to making things. I know that for my next collection, I'm committed to doing as much of that collection using our scraps or deadstock and vintage materials as possible. We're going to continue making things out of what we have, and not trying to create more waste. Stay tuned for new episodes of Vibe Check every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas go back and forth on the week's hottest releases. On the top of that list of course the Ben & Jerry's x Nike SB Dunk Low — better known as the “Chunky Dunky.” The cow print kicks made even more waves this week when lucky F&F members got their pairs in giant-sized pints, along with actual cream. Meanwhile, YOON's upcoming Dunk High collab gives the hosts some nostalgia for a certain Puma sneaker designed by Hussein Chalayan, one of the most underrated designers that archive heads should really show more love to. There's also a brick of a shoe in. adidas' latest Stan Smith, a half-hearted attempt to court some #muleboyz love that ends up looking like a sneaker that's only 90% finished. After breaking down what “crispy nylon” is and why it's so important to KITH's Spring 2020 collection, the conversation shifts to Asian-American and black communities finding solidarity during this time of strife. Following up on a piece we published this week about the depth of the impact Asian-Americans have had in streetwear and sneakers, the 100th-best Filipino/black talent duo since Chad Hugo and Pharrell have a brief discussion on how we can work together to fight oppression — similar to the points actor and activist Kendrick Sampson makes in one of this week's Vibe Check episodes. Relevant Links Ben & Jerry’s x Nike SB Dunk Low Will Drop in a Special Ice-Cream Box Yoon Ahn Is Working on New AMBUSH x Nike Dunk Colorways Here’s Your First Look at Palace x adidas’ Latest Signature Model for Lucas Puig adidas’ Latest Stan Smith Makeover is a #MuleBoyz Treat LeBron James & Adam Sandler Are Making a Netflix Movie Together Kid Cudi & Virgil Abloh Just Released a New Limited Edition Collab KITH Gets Tactical With Utility-Driven Spring 2020 Collection How Street Culture Shaped Asian-American Identity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Working from home is a relatively new concept for Kris Van Assche, the Belgian designer who once helmed his eponymous menswear label, Dior Homme, and is currently the creative director of luxurious leather house Berluti. As someone who already had access to different offices, having a workspace at home seemed superfluous, although obviously circumstances have changed.Still, he draws a distinction between the type of introspective work he’d do in the sanctity of his home (a big library is involved) and the hands-on work he now does remotely with his design teams. But at least he gets to spend more time with his cat Frieda (6:50). Van Assche recently feted a new line of upscale housewares from Berluti, including boiled leather vases and silver bowls. He talks about the design process (7:27) and how much of an inspiration Pierre Jeanneret is. He also shares his thoughts on the future of the fashion industry after Covid-19 (16:02). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kendrick Sampson is an actor and activist known for his roles on The Flash, The Vampire Diaries, How to Get Away With Murder, and more recently, as Nathan “Ghost Bae” Campbell on Insecure. On this episode, Sampson talks about his nonprofit organization BLD PWR (2:07) that promotes a spirit of liberation culture. Sampson is also raising awareness for mental health awareness month, and shares a few tips that help him decompress (15:55). He’s also a strong advocate of the Cancel Rent movement (9:55) and has been working with Housing Justice For All in order to fight for the housing rights of underserved and marginalized communities. Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas are beyond bummed that most of the week's sneaker releases (and teases) are pretty much a gigantic bag of bricks. There's the Grateful Dead Bear Nike SBs that look like a radioactive version of the Three Bears pack from back in the day, and the long-awaited COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Dunks...which are also disappointing. But there is one shoe that manages to pass their taste test, and you'll have to listen to the episode to figure out which one it is. Meanwhile in style news, the Daniel Johnston and Supreme are back with another collaboration, following up on a line of T-shirts from 2012. It's crazy that it happened almost a decade ago, which makes both hosts keenly aware of their own mortality after remembering that they were around for the first time the two entities got together. Of course, one of the most important things in quarantine is hygiene and a regular grooming regimen, which is also why the hosts discuss Highsnobiety's grooming week and one of its standout articles: What's the Skincare Equivalent of Your Favorite Fashion Brand? And lastly, it appears we very well may be in the middle of a clout drought. Jian explains what that means and digs deeper into his article. For any and all questions (or messages of love, hate, and the gray area in between), don't forget to call The Dropcast Hotline at. 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766). We'll be back soon with more episodes and perhaps a question of the week. Relevant Links: Here’s Your Best Look at Nike’s Grateful Dead Bears-Inspired SB Dunk Low Stüssy’s Third Nike Zoom Spiridon Caged 2 Is Dropping Very Soon Here’s a First Look at the Rumored Nike Air Jordan 1 Low “Sweater” Virgil Abloh Shares First Look at the Nigo-Designed LV² Mule Nike Shares COMME des GARÇONS x Dunk Low Release Date Kanye West Is Releasing a New YEEZY Boot This Week adidas Consortium’s New Beefy Hiker Is a Nod to the ’90s Here’s Your Best Look at Stray Rats’ New Balance 827 “Sewer Stomper” ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2’ Are Being Remastered for PS4 & Xbox Supreme’s New Daniel Johnston Collab Drops This Week What’s the Skincare Equivalent of Your Favorite Fashion Brand? Who Will Survive the Clout Drought? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For Kevin Poon, co-founder of Hong Kong-based label CLOT and boutique retailer JUICE, the Covid-19 pandemic is long past lockdown and at the very early stages of getting back to normal. “It feels like we’re watching the same movie, but we’re 40 minutes ahead,” he says in today’s episode of Vibe Check. He’s in a very fortunate position as a small business owner, where he’s had the opportunity to actually open a new location instead of shuttering several during this weird time in history. He recently opened a branch of his Elephant Grounds Cafe in Chengdu, albeit with strong social distancing measures in place and a business model that primarily revolves around to-go orders. But he’s also experiencing a bit of what economists have called “revenge spending” in Asian countries where malls and clothing stores are reopening, cautiously welcoming consumers who are more than eager to cop up fresh gear. Listen to the full episode to hear what it’s looking like on the other side of the pandemic. Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ released every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas talk the latest drops on Highsnobiety’s radar including No Vacancy Inn’s New Balance collab, the 700 percent markup on Air Jordan 1 Chicagos, and the shoes you’ll most likely catch on the feet of drug dealers. In the second half of the show, the hosts give their takes on the style lineup: a courtroom sketch artist’s illustrations of outfits for the Met Gala that never happened and Supreme x Barbour’s Harvard-meets-Oxford collab. This week in pop culture saw Nicolas Cage set to play Joe Exotic in an upcoming scripted series about the documentary miniseries that started it all (1:34). The good news is, Cage and Exotic are one and the same, so no acting will be needed on his part. No Vacancy Inn’s New Balance 650s are kicking off this episode’s lineup of sneaker drops with their 400 pairs exclusive release on StockX — 399, if you don’t count Jian’s pair (2:50). He shares a little background on the shoe, including the influence of the late designer and craftsman George Nakashima. (4:18). The hosts also dig into the inspiration behind the new print on Nike’s latest Air Foamposite One, which features the timely appearance of a silver dragon for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (4:48). Following the premiere of ‘The Last Dance,’ certain sneakers have gone through a surge in popularity. The latest has been the Air Jordan 1 Chicago, with its resale price skyrocketing after the latest episode of the docuseries (6:03). Noah’s on the hunt for some Dennis Rodman and Scottie Pippen shoes, specifically the Air Pippen 2, which have been difficult to come by. Meanwhile, Jian’s planning to try his luck on getting a pair of the Royal Toe Jordan 1s dropping this weekend (7:24). Make sure to check out the Air Jordan ‘Why It’s Cool’ episode to learn about the shoe’s legacy through the words of designer Peter Moore and other industry figures.  The Nike Air Deschutz sandal has Noah and Jian divided, but the duo does agree on one thing about the shoe: you can bet on catching some street pharmacists wearing a pair, along with the Purple Metallic Nike Air Jordan 4s dropping later this month (8:58). Palace’s SS20 teaser opens up this week’s style news, showcasing a clean shirt with floral embroidery that seems very promising for Noah (11:26). While it’s difficult to envision the future beyond the current pandemic, this wasn’t the case for the courtroom sketch artist who Highsnobiety commissioned to draw fits for the 2020 Met Gala that never happened (13:05). Jian feels like there was a missed opportunity to dress up and sketch out Grimes and Elon Musk’s newborn baby arriving on the red carpet (14:30). He brings things back to Earth with Supreme x Barbour’s latest collection, which is great in theory, but goes awry when you think about the people you can see wearing it (15:25). Wrap up your week with ‘Vibe Check’ where Jian checks in with Murda Beatz who’s part of a new network he dubs the “MTV of gaming” as well as Team Epiphany’s Coltrane Curtis and Lisa Chu who speak on running their business and influencer marketing. Be sure to check in too by calling the Dropcast hotline at 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766) to say what’s up. Relevant Links: Only 400 Pairs of No Vacancy Inn’s New Balance 650 Are Dropping on StockX Nike’s Air Foamposite One Gets Another Galactic Makeover Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Sulfur Resale Price for Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” Skyrockets After Latest ‘Last Dance’ Episode Royal Toe Jordan 1s Dropping This Weekend The First Episode of ‘Why It’s Cool’ Explains the Legacy of the Air Jordan 1 Nike Air Deschutz Sandal Kim Jones x Daniel Arsham CD1 Sneakers The “Purple Metallic” Nike Air Jordan 4 Drops This Month  Palace Introduces Floral Embroidery With First Summer ’20 Teaser CDG x Cactus Plant Flea Market Tees We Asked a Courtroom Sketch Artist to Draw the Met Gala Fits We’ll Never See Supreme’s New x Barbour Collab Drops This Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aleali May is a model, stylist, and creative who’s designed her fair share of Jordans including a pair that makes a nod to her home city of Los Angeles. Aleali catches up with host Jian DeLeon on this episode, sharing what she’s been up to in quarantine which has often involved rewatching some of her favorite fashion documentaries. Aleali joins her fellow Cancers as a homebody who’s appreciating the stay-at-home life as an opportunity to relax and recover from her past fashion week run. She’s finding tasks to keep herself busy, including cooking regularly and spring cleaning her closet. While doing so, Aleali has come across some forgotten pieces, styled them in outfits, and took pictures for documentation. Still, she can’t help but feel disappointed about the cancellation of men’s fashion week, which she feels always brings out the best atmosphere (3:45). Aleali has been taking time out to rerun some of her go-to documentaries and enjoy the discoveries she finds with each new watch. She shares her lineup along with the takeaways for each film in hopes that the younger generation will be inspired by some of the most key players in the game (10:32). Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ released every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Team Epiphany, a marketing and creative agency that’s been around for 15 years, is responsible for conceptualizing the idea of an “influencer” before the social media we know today even existed. They’re also the creative force behind collaborative projects like the Heineken 100 and Coca-Cola Energy x Camp High’s campaign, a brand that was featured in the latest issue of the Highsnobiety magazine. Coltrane Curtis and Lisa Chu, the agency’s managing partners, work, commute, and live together, now even more than ever. Pretty much the only thing they’re fighting about is sharing office space within their NYC apartment. The duo joins host Jian DeLeon to talk about recent projects and the steps they’re taking to keep small businesses up and running. Lisa Chu: In addition to running the agency’s event production, I’m also chief financial officer at Team Epiphany. Which means I’m reading anything and everything that has to do with the stimulus package because this pandemic is having a huge impact on culture and community. We’re an independent, small business that employs over 70 employees so I’m doing everything I can to ensure their financial security as well as the agency’s. I’m on the phone with our friends that own companies like Vosges, Cosabella, LEDE PR and our network of influencer friends to share stimulus information that may help keep our NYC community of small businesses afloat. The agency’s accomplishments from their Coca-Cola and Camp High collaboration is up on Coltrane’s list as one of Team Epiphany’s top five collaborations (5:22). Jian picks his brain on the project’s execution and how brands can speak to an audience during a time when people are increasingly in tune to what’s happening in the product landscape (7:26). Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ releasing every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jian DeLeon chats with Shane Lindstrom, better known as Murda Beatz, a multi-platinum record producer who’s created hit singles with Travis Scott, Gucci Mane, Drake, Migos, and many more award-winning artists. To keep the momentum going this month, he released two new records and his first drum kit sample pack. Quarantine life has been the same work from home routine as usual for Shane, just heightened to a daily basis. Without outside distractions, artists have either been uninspired or motivated. Shane identifies with the latter, focusing on all things music including his upcoming singles. His latest project is what he refers to as the “MTV of gaming”: Players Ntwrk, a group of artists, producers, and athletes who stream their gameplay while connecting with fans. Shane shares some of his favorite games at the moment that are more than likely to make an appearance on Players Ntwrk (4:30). Jian introduces Shane to the world of Animal Crossing where players have been designing clothing and reimagining real world merch and apparel in a 2D universe. This certainly speaks to Shane who enjoys the sense of community that comes with being both a producer and a gamer. The pandemic has also provided Shane an opportunity to work with a greater variety of artists while revisiting old practices. While working at home, Shane just might release some new gaming beats (6:50). Recently, he released a Quarantine Pack with music production platform Splice, consisting of a drum kit that’s perfect for newly initiated beat makers (9:00). Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ dropping every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas are back with a new show format that stays true to the heart and core of the podcast by focusing on the latest drops on Highsnobiety’s radar. Jian and Noah start off by diving into this week’s hypest sneaker drops, including WTAP’s New Balance M992 collab. In the second half, the duo talk style news from a collision of worlds: Palace and NHS, Astroworld and Fortnite, along with KAWS x The Scotts. Eric Emanuel, Dropcast alum and the designer of his eponymous sportswear brand, starts off the quick hits with his rework of Allen Iverson’s signature Question Mid, which will see a release today as rumored on Emanuel’s Instagram (1:03). The hosts are known for their distaste in mids, but this pair hits the right spot for them (with a caveat, of course). With the days transitioning into summer, Jian sees SNEEZE Magazine’s Reebok’s Club C as the way to go this upcoming season (1:56). Noah believes it’s definitely slept on, and he sees it as an open canvas for DIY and customizations just as much as the Air Force 1s.  Way on the other side of the color spectrum, Nike SB is collaborating with 7-Eleven to release a co-branded Dunk Low (3:20). Speaking of Air Force 1s, the hosts agree that a clean white shoe with simple embroidery would have done the trick. As per Noah’s words, the shoes went too hard on the festive spirit. Jian’s definitely not sleeping on the next silent killers: WTAP’s New Balance M992 is dropping today at select stockists (4:23). In style news, we see the unveiling of another classic, the Levi’s 501 jeans which were first released in the ‘90s (6:27). After wearing sweatpants for days on end, Jian has turned to his Levi’s and Supreme jeans. Noah’s also looking to invest in some raw denim, which probably won’t be the pair in question as they’re most likely sold out. The next coveted item is the Louis Vuitton Millionaires sunglasses coming in at a hefty $890 — the perfect amount to be paid off by a stimulus check with some money left over for groceries and other non-essentials (8:26). As a London-based brand, Palace joins the growing lineup that’s contributing to Covid-19 relief by donating all profits from its NHS TRI-TO HELP capsule to charities supporting the NHS (10:02). Last week, in another meeting of worlds, Travis Scott took to Fortnite for his Astronomical World digital tour in what Jian dubbed as a “psychedelic drug stimulator” (11:20). Now, the artist has added a third installment of merch for this cross-over to his online shop. KAWS has also released the final cover for Travis Scott and Kid Cudi’s new single following two prior limited edition covers which are already sold out (11:52). The hosts give a shout out to Cam Hicks, Virgil Abloh’s go-to photographer who’s releasing his first book on May 6 (12:54). The episode wraps up with “What’d You Cop?” where Noah was gifted a pair of Eytys’ new sneakers and a bracelet from Ineverheardofyou (13:31). Jian received one as well, along with an Aries sweatshirt and tee, a goodie package from Scott Sternberg, and an 18 East cardigan which has been the perfect cozy piece for topping off his quarantine fits.  The Dropcast hotline is open and running, so call in at 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766) to say what’s up. Relevant Links: Eric Emanuel Reworks Allen Iverson’s Question Mid SNEEZE Magazine’s Bubble Logo Decorates New Reebok Club C Collab We’re Hoping This Rumored 7-Eleven Nike SB Dunk Comes With a Big Gulp WTAPS Unveils a Must-Have New Balance M992 Collab Levi’s Vintage Unveils Limited Edition Japanese Version of Classic 501 Jean Louis Vuitton’s “Millionaires” Sunglasses Just Arrived in New Summer Colorways Palace’s New Tri-Ferg Collection Supports the NHS Travis Scott Adds Glow-In-The-Dark Accessories to His ‘Fortnite’ Merch Travis Scott Releases New KAWS x “The Scotts” Cover New York Nico is Looking for the Most Deadass NY Tee of All Time Cam Hicks, Virgil Abloh’s Go-To Photographer, on Staying Creative During a Crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jian DeLeon checks in with Dao-Yi Chow, co-founder of New York-based label Public School, who was named the creative director of heritage sportswear brand Sergio Tacchini last year. Dao-Yi reflects on recent changes in his life including the new role, sustainability in fashion, running for a cause, and pulling off a proper Asian household quarantine fit. Dao-Yi has collaborated with Jordan Brand multiple times, and he’s now bringing his affinity for basketball and fashion into styling outfits on collectible ENTERBAY Jordan figures during quarantine. Dao-Yi’s been busy with work as well, steadily moving towards Sergio Tacchini’s target launch date in Fall 2020. To him, the important question is asking how the fashion industry is going to come out of the current Covid-19 situation (5:02). Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ dropping every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of ‘Vibe Check,’ host Jian DeLeon speaks with two guests who live and breathe New York City. Nicolas Heller, known as New York Nico, produces work that can best be described as that which belongs to a cultural anthropologist in the country’s largest city. His recent New York Accent Challenge scouted for contenders of the city’s best accent, attracting anyone and everyone who uses the internet. Now, Nico has partnered up with Jaeki Cho, creative director of streetwear and sneaker boutique Alumni of NY, to introduce the Best NY Shirt Contest. The deadline for submissions is April 29, after which the top three designs will be made into T-shirts and sold for charity. The Accent Challenge exceeded Nico’s expectations, with Jaeki himself participating and making it to the top 16. Jian speaks on the elements that constitute a distinctive New York state of mind both on and offline as exemplified by Nico’s and Jaeki’s work. As individuals who lived through 9/11, the duo acknowledges an unparalleled sense of community that surfaces in times of strife. (3:02). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DJ Clark Kent has created a dizzying array of work over the span of his career ranging from mixes to tracks with artists like Notorious B.I.G. and Jay-Z. The hip hop DJ and producer joins hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas on this week’s episode of ‘The Dropcast’ to talk sports, kicks, and music as he weighs sneaker against sneaker and music artists against each other. Sports fans have been raving about ESPN’s The Last Dance, a documentary that follows Michael Jordan and the Bulls through unseen footage from their 1997-98 championship season (2:53). Clark sees it as an opportunity to identify the greatest of all time once and for all, as younger sports fans finally witness Jordan in action.  The quick hits turn to some new school kicks recently unveiled by ASICS and Kiko Kostadinov as the GEL-Aurania (7:33). Although Clark isn’t raving about them, he speaks to the essentiality of every sneaker and how the importance is measured through their connection to the consumer. A product that has done exactly that is the Supreme x Takashi Murakami box logo tee, which was released to support Covid-19 efforts (11:35).  Stussy x Nike’s Air Zoom Spiridon Caged has been one of the most hyped sneaker collabs, and their first iteration seems to remain largely uncontested despite news of a second silhouette (15:46).  Noah fills everyone in on Babyface and Teddy Riley’s Instagram battle, which viewers called a major fail after the artists called it quits due to sound problems (17:10). The second time was a charm, with four million users tuning in to the session. If Clark were to put a score to it, he would hand the victory to Babyface.  As another big name who has since permeated the world of social media, Drake pulled a victory for breaking a TikTok record with “Toosie Slide,” and his luxurious bed which costs as much as a house has garnered just as much attention (24:51).  This episode’s Question of the Week (QOTW) asked “What celeb has the best sneaker collection?” (34:12). Before the cast dives into the voicemails, Clark names a handful of his top sneakerheads and the quality he looks for in doing so. If you’ve been paying attention, it comes as no surprise that Clark copped a third pair of Sergio Tacchini sneakers along with the Air Fear of God 1 Triple Black, a full box of Fresh Prince of Bel Air gear with a dozen different sweatshirts and T-shirts, a Compound x New York Knicks cap, and the Supreme Murakami tee in “What’d You Cop?” (42:54). He’s also been busy gifting, packing away 400 boxes of sneakers to send off. Relevant Links: Twitter Is Absolutely in Love With ESPN’s ‘The Last Dance’ ASICS & Kiko Kostadinov Unveil Their Latest Hybrid Sneaker Add the “Incredible Hulk” Colorway to Your Air Jordan 1 Rotation  Supreme x Takashi Murakami Unveil New Box Logo Tee Supreme’s My Bloody Valentine Collab Is Absolute Fire Stüssy’s New Air Zoom Spiridon Caged 2 Surfaces in Another Colorway Babyface & Teddy Riley’s Instagram Battle Was a Major Fail & Fans Are Screaming Drake’s “Toosie Slide” Just Broke a Major TikTok Record Drake’s Luxurious Bed Costs As Much As a House Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Vibe Check, we delve into how people’s dating lives have changed while self-quarantining. Host Jian DeLeon talks to Karley Sciortino, a writer, host, and founder of Slutever. The two discuss how dating apps have evolved in an age of social distancing, with a special focus on Bumble, which empowers women. Sciortino recounts a story of friends meeting on Bumble, offers advice on keeping the momentum of online dating going, how to rethink sex, and more. Hit play above to listen to the full episode and read on for an excerpt from the conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While many people know Lena Waithe through her accomplishments as an actress and screenwriter for films and shows like Queen & Slim and Master of None, host Jian DeLeon taps into Lena’s equally prominent identity as a sneakerhead by discussing her new Quibi show ‘You Ain’t Got These’ along with the kicks she has on her current isolation rotation. During this quarantine, Lena is appreciating a need to respect other people’s time and maintain boundaries while everyone is working from home. Of course, listening to music, FaceTiming, and revisiting old movies and shows like Boomerang and High Fidelity are just as important (3:35). Lena speaks on the relatability of her characters, their stories, and how people are connecting to her material overall. These elements shine through her newest Quibi show as well, which Jian commends for its cultural authenticity (6:29). Lena is embracing the unique connections that each generation has with sneaker culture, including the booming resell phenomenon and the introduction of new hype sneakers like Travis Scott’s Jordans with secret stash pockets being acts of public service (8:50).  Even though people aren’t wearing their kicks out right now, Lena sees herself as a semi-purist who can keep a pair of sneakers in a box or glass case and simply appreciate their craftsmanship. At the same time, she’s not a believer in taking away the functionality of sneakers as someone who has worn out a pair of Yeezy Red Octobers. Lena has been leaning towards the former practice of appreciating her collection while putting wear and tear on her Balenciaga slides and other selects that are a part of her isolation rotation (15:10). Meanwhile, she’s waiting on the right time to flex her kicks, even if it means getting her hands on Pharrell’s Chanel NMDs and wearing them once in a blue moon. Stay tuned for new episodes of ‘Vibe Check’ released every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mario Guzman, the mastermind behind the cannabis brand SHERBINSKIS, calls in for this week’s episode of ‘The Dropcast’ to speak with hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas about his business from its roots up to the present day and being dubbed “the Supreme of Marijuana.” As people are gearing up for that time of the year, Mario also shares smart ways to go about selecting your options. The quick hits begin by revisiting an event from earlier in the week as the cast pay their respects to Chynna Rogers, an up-and-coming rapper who passed away at the young age of 25. Then, things go even further back to last season when BEAMS came out with Crocs that were meant to be a part of a capsule collection with Highsnobiety. The Japanese label is back with new military-inspired sandals that the cast is all for (3:56). Another possible return is the Nike SB Dunk Low “Buck” from 2003 which could be returning later this year (5:20). The sneaker’s University of Oregon colorway happens to be the same green and gold that reps Jian’s alma mater, making it an automatic cop. Contemporary artist Daniel Arsham recently announced his newest project, a Uniqlo capsule in collaboration with Pokémon (6:48). As the first visual artist to be granted access to Pokémon’s archive, Arsham’s work is proving that the animated franchise continues to thrive. However, the current times are rough for young fashion designers, and LVMH recognizes that. Mario, Jian, and Noah support the group’s decision to cancel this year’s LVMH prize in order to set up a fund that supports previous winners (9:17). NBA has put a contingency plan in place which includes individual and team training for players before the season resumes (11:02). The cast comes up with novel but not impossible ideas for alternative strategies as they suggest players to battle it out, gladiator style. The fashion industry is also fighting tooth and nail to stay on top during the Covid-19 pandemic, with a new study positing that consumers will start to reach for heritage rather than hype products (15:28). Mario speaks on running his business successfully during the current crisis as well as the necessary traits for a lasting business (17:20). As Mario shares, SHERBINSKIS is the new kid on the block, but his philosophy represents the future for many new brands. He takes it back to the beginning when he was growing out of his garage in the early 2000s while being involved in the legalization movement, and the compassion shown towards veterans, disabled individuals, and the sick during that time in San Francisco (21:18). To put things into perspective, Mario reflects on progressing from worrying about getting shut down on a daily basis into being classified as an essential business. This episode’s Question of the Week (QOTW) asked Dropcast listeners to dig through their memories to the first time they smoked weed (28:07). Callers share the good and the bad, and Mario joins in with anecdotes of his first joint at the age of 11. In “What’d You Cop?” Mario treated himself to a Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560 but also did his share of giving through donations (35:38). This weekend, catch up on new episodes of ‘Vibe Check,’ Highsnobiety’s latest podcast which recently featured A$AP Ferg dropping his quarantine playlist and workout routine, and make sure to tune in to new episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday. Keep your eyes peeled for the next Dropcast QOTW which will be posted on Highsnobiety’s Instagram, and make sure to leave a voicemail on the hotline at 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766) for a chance to be featured in a future episode. Relevant links: BEAMS x Crocs SS20 Adds Military Flavor to Your WFH Footwear The Nike SB Dunk Low “Buck” Could Be Returning Later This Year First Look at Daniel Arsham’s Uniqlo Pokémon Capsule The 2020 LVMH Prize Has Been Cancelled The NBA Has a “Back to Basketball” Contingency Plan Covid-19 Has Decimated the Fashion Industry & Could Spell the End for Hype Product Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz are the cofounders of Malin + Goetz, a modern apothecary that creates luxury skincare and fragrance products for ecologically and design-conscious individuals. Matthew brings his expansive background as a cosmetic buyer and his management experience to the brand while Andrew’s expertise in design can be seen from various aspects of his life, down to his house containing a collection of books and their equally impressive shelving. On this episode of ‘Vibe Check,’ host Jian DeLeon chats with Malin + Goetz on balancing work and leisure as well as the proper way to use scented candles. After sharing their recent quarantine reads, Jian and Andrew evaluate the journey of Barneys beginning with the department store’s move to Uptown Manhattan (2:37). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A$AP Ferg is a rapper and songwriter who needs no introduction. Even now, the artist has been keeping busy through music and recently put together a playlist of his favorite tracks on Pandora. During the day, Ferg finds time to perform his workout routine which includes 300 pushups and has been a daily part of his quarantine life. Host Jian DeLeon speaks with Ferg about his Instagram Live with Dr. Sampson Davis on Covid-19 and the importance of music during the crisis for the latest episode of ‘Vibe Check.’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harlem’s Kush God started his music career as a battle rapper before signing to a label and going on to collaborate with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, and Snoop Dogg. Recently, Smoke DZA returned with his latest album A Closed Mouth Don’t Get Fed, and he talks about the new music video for “Praying For My Soul,” a single off the album featuring Flipp Dinero, on this week’s episode of ‘The Dropcast.’ Hosts Jian DeLeon and Noah Thomas talk cozy work-from-home fits courtesy of Needles’ new SS20 drop (4:12). Now that he’s in the know about the new drop, Smoke’s planning to let loose during the quarantine. The same goes for Saucony’s Grid Azura 2000, recently reworked by Bodega. Smoke is a fan of New Balance, expressing that Nike and Adidas are like the McDonald’s and Burger King of sneakers (7:00). Supreme proves its presence once again as the streetwear giant, this time quite literally, in their recent full-page New York Times ad showing friends and family chilling at home in front of a massive box logo T-shirt (8:47). This definitely caught the attention of Smoke who’s been waiting on Supreme to release products larger than their current offerings. Although Smoke isn’t big on Jordans, he digs the alternative Off-White Air Jordan 5 colorway and sees their value as someone who flips sneakers once in a blue moon when the opportunity falls into his lap — as he did with the Off-White Air Force 1s (11:54). If Smoke were to collab with Nike, you’d catch him cooking up fresh colorways for Air Max 97s or Vandals (14:10). Jian recently spoke with James Harris and Lawrence Schlossman of the ‘Throwing Fits’ podcast on the growing possibility of a post-sneaker world in the wake of Covid-19 (15:25). Smoke doesn’t see the trend dying out. While the world was figuratively ending, Smoke was busy shooting the video for “Praying For My Soul,” which will be released next Monday (20:06). Smoke can already be seen donning a mask, which speaks to his hope for the video to be a time capsule reminding future listeners of the Covid-19 crisis. This episode’s Question of the Week (QOTW) asked Dropcast listeners the best quarantine pastime, with callers to the hotline sharing examples of charitable acts and getting the cast to talk the Kush God’s specialty (22:02). Smoke’s staying on top of the indoors lifestyle, having recently copped a new wireless router for gaming in “What’d You Cop?” (27:52). As usual, be on the lookout for the next Dropcast QOTW which will be posted on Highsnobiety’s Instagram, and make sure to leave a voicemail on the hotline at 833-HIGHSNOB (833-444-4766) for a chance to be featured in a future episode. Relevant Links: A Closed Mouth Don't Get Fed Check out Our Favorite Pieces From the Latest Needles Drop Bodega Reworks Saucony’s Crazy Grid Azura 2000 Supreme Takes Out an Ad in New York Times Telling People to Stay Home Virgil Abloh’s Next Off-White™ x Nike Air Jordan 5 Has a New Rumored Release Date Travis Scott Shares Potential Sample Nike SB Dunk Low Air Zoom Spiridon Caged 2 Is Everyone Finally Getting Tired of Sneakers? People Aren’t Buying Clothes, They’re Buying Bread Makers & Kitting Out Their Home Lamplighter Candles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While things are getting twice as bad back in Hawaii with stricter lockdown enforcement and a tsunami warning, skater, model, photographer, and designer Evan Mock has been spending the past two weeks in Connecticut. On this episode of ‘Vibe Check,’ Evan talks to host Jian DeLeon about the projects he has lined up in the pipeline, including his brand Sorry in Advance, and discusses the need to show love for local businesses and people during these trying times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices