Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Smith

We got one of People Magazine's "Sexiest Men Alive" - Brian Michael Smith - on Black Fat Femme this week, and we get into discussions about authentic trans narratives, wanting more mediocrity (?!?), and the power of tranformative storytelling. From The L Word: Generation Q and 9-1-1: Lone Star, to his advocacy in film and television, Brian breaks down his journey from sports star to TV star while your favorite cohosts share their hot takes about parasocial relationships, being paid more for less, and some of the "hidden figures" in trans history. We want to hear from you! Send us an email with your thoughts/comments about the show: BlackFatFemmePod@gmail.com. Also, don’t forget to watch and subscribe on YouTube! Buy DoctorJonPaul's book here! Follow the show on social: Instagram | BlueSky | Threads | Tik-Tok | Facebook Follow DoctorJonPaul: BlueSky | Instagram | Website | Tik-Tok Follow Jordan: Instagram | Website | Tik-Tok Follow Brian: Instagram | Website See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this insightful interview, Michael Smith shares his journey from investment banking to creating an alternative education platform focused on private equity, real estate, and wealth-building strategies rooted in faith and clarity. Discover frameworks like the Dominion Framework, the importance of stewardship, and practical investment tips to elevate your financial game.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

What do shoppers actually want in 2026? Do brand vibe, culture, and ethos matter more than the clothes? Is experience-based fashion just better marketing? And what does “integrated fashion” look like when your wardrobe is built around music, sports, clubs, video games, vintage, coffee shops, and the internet?On this episode of Pair of Kings, Sol Thompson and Michael Smith break down the largest survey they've run on fashion preferences, shopping habits, and taste: 1,500+ responses on how people look for, select and justify clothing today. The duo use the season's thesis of “integrated fashion” to interrogate why brand culture matters, how shoppers decide between buying piece-by-piece vs building a full aesthetic, why brand storytelling still works, and what makes a fashion brand captivating enough to hold an audience.We get into Rick Owens, Kozaburo, Rolling Dub Trio, Lost Control cowboy boots, Undercover, Comme des Garçons, Celine, Hedi Slimane, CC41 wartime tailoring, vintage band tees, Bruce Springsteen shirts, KMFDM, Electronic Research Department / ERD, Daft Punk, and controversy-driven fashion marketing.Sol and Michael also discuss Everlane's sale to Shein, sustainability fatigue, ethical fashion, cost per wear, quality vs longevity, resale liquidity, wardrobe economics, consumer inequality, and why the modern fashion industry is selling lifestyles as much as clothing. Further, they ask what sparks the desire to buy: Honey Dijon at Coachella, Saturday Night Fever, The Batman motorcycle jackets, FKA twigs, Interplanetary Criminal, video games, old magazines, X-Files tees, Julian Carter, and archive fashion grails.Other topics include: NYC summer style, Havaianas and flip-flop discourse, Birkenstocks without socks, finance guys in Lululemon khakis and On Running shoes, Kangol hats, men's matching sets, white jeans, World Cup style, vintage soccer jerseys, Newcastle kits, Nike Total 90s, Puma Speedcats, Big Red Boots, brand pop-ups, shock drops, fashion coffee shops, Instagram style discovery, raves, punk shows, clubs, flea markets, Harajuku, Santee Alley, gay clubs, furries, online fashion communities, The Devil Wears Prada 2, whether good marketing can compensate for bad clothes. We hope you enjoy just as much as we did recording.Lots of love!Sol---Episode Tags: fashion podcast 2026, integrated fashion, fashion survey, menswear, streetwear, high fashion, archive fashion, shopping habits, brand culture, experience-based fashion, Rick Owens, Kozaburo, Everlane Shein, sustainable fashion, vintage fashion, World Cup jerseys, Nike Total 90, Puma Speedcat, Celine #fashion #fashionpodcast #rickowens #archivefashion TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 — Intro: 1,300+ Person Integrated Fashion Survey 1:09 — Sol & Michael Introduce the Episode 1:53 — New York Summer Fashion and the Style Reset 2:23 — Fit Check: Birkenstocks, Kapital Denim & Vintage Bruce Springsteen Tee 6:37 — KMFDM Shirt, Vintage T-Shirt Care & Washing Old Tees 7:14 — ERD Daft Punk Shirt, Vintage Resale & Controversial Fashion Marketing 11:42 — NYC Summer Style: Flip-Flops, Havaianas & Birkenstocks 16:27 — Finance Guy Fits: On Running, Lululemon Khakis & No-Show Socks 18:07 — Kangol Hats, Lower East Side Trends & One-Weekend Menswear Fads 20:22 — Matching Sets and Summer 2026 Menswear Predictions 21:16 — White Jeans, Vintage Soccer Jerseys & World Cup Style 25:05 — Everlane, Shein and the Future of Ethical Fashion 26:29 — Sustainability Fatigue and Rick Owens Sustainable Cotton 27:23 — Consumer Economics: Who Fashion Brands Actually Sell To 29:15 — AI Data Centers, Consumption and Environmental Cost 31:10 — Fashion Survey Begins: How Young Shoppers Buy Clothes 32:07 — Do Brand Vibe, Culture and Ethos Matter? 32:44 — Rick Owens, Kozaburo and Buying Into Brand Worlds 35:17 — Wardrobe Building: Piece-by-Piece vs Full Aesthetic 36:06 — Rick Owens Harness Boots and Buying in a Vacuum 40:03 — UJ Militaria, CC41 Wartime Blazer & Archive Menswear 43:00 — Brand Storytelling: Undercover, Sustainability and Fashion Narrative 45:24 — What People Consider Before Buying Clothes 46:14 — Cost Per Wear Debate 50:15 — Sustainability, Ethics, Price, Fit, Resale Liquidity & Durability 52:16 — What Makes People Want to Buy Clothing? 52:41 — Honey Dijon, Coachella, Saturday Night Fever & Cultural Inspiration 56:09 — CDG, Archive Fashion and Mental Catalogs of Grails 56:42 — FKA Twigs, Interplanetary Criminal, Video Games & Fashion Inspiration 57:39 — Do Fashion Influencers Actually Influence Fashion People? 59:38 — The Batman, Motorcycle Jackets & Style Obsession 1:01:13 — Hedi Slimane's Celine “The Dancing Kid” Beanie 1:03:15 — Experience-Based Fashion: Drops, Pop-Ups, Coffee Shops & Activations 1:06:02 — Influencer Gifting, Clothing Waste & FOMO Marketing 1:08:41 — Big Red Boots, Puma Speedcats & Hype Products That Disappear 1:10:01 — Nike Total 90, Slim Soccer Sneakers & Footwear Trends 1:10:20 — Where People Experience Fashion: Raves, Flea Markets, Clubs & Coffee Shops 1:13:37 — Instagram as a Fashion Scene and Style Discovery Tool 1:17:44 — Clubs, Raves and the Anti-Commercial Fashion Scene 1:19:04 — Song of the Week 1:21:58 — The Devil Wears Prada 2, Fashion Movies & Reboot Culture 1:26:37 — Speed Racer, Style Nostalgia & Closing Thoughts 1:26:59 — Outro  #FashionPodcast, #Menswear, #Streetwear, #Fashion, #Style, #FashionCulture, #FashionCommunity, #FashionDiscussion, #FashionAnalysis, #FashionCommentary, #MensFashion, #MensStyle, #ArchiveFashion, #FashionArchive, #VintageFashion, #FashionHistory, #DesignerFashion, #LuxuryFashion, #FashionResearch, #FashionWriting, #IntegratedFashion, #FashionTheory, #FashionConsumer, #FashionShopping, #FashionTrends, #FashionIndustry, #FashionMarketing, #BrandCulture, #FashionConsumerBehavior, #FutureOfFashion, #RickOwens, #CommeDesGarcons, #Undercover, #HediSlimane Sol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a monthLinks:InstagramTikTokTwitter/XSol's Substack (One Size Fits All)Sol's InstagramMichael's InstagramMichael's TikTok

On this episode of our Checking in on the Checkoff series, hosts Bailey Watson and Michael Smith review spring Alabama Beef Checkoff activities, including stockyard visits, regional meetings, and youth programs. They also recap the Beef 101 series, the kickoff of YCLP Class XII, and a NASCAR partnership promotion at Talladega. The episode also highlights upcoming beef promotions, including summer grilling campaigns, and gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the 20th Annual AJCA Round-Up.

Was Dave Macklovitch right about the Hedi Boy revival? Is Hedi Slimane's skinny-jeans-and-leather-jacket universe bigger than fashion? And what happens to musicians when AI can make the record but not the room?Sol and Michael sit down with the podcast's favorite well-dressed unc, Dave Macklovitch of Chromeo, for his second episode and a proper apology tour after the 2025 Hedi Slimane craze proved him right. The trio explore the Hedi Boy phenomenon, Celine skinny jeans, Dior Homme codes, Saint Laurent leather jackets, indie sleaze, Grailed resellers, archive fashion, and why the looks that last are never just clothes—they come with music, photography, nightlife, diet, attitude, community, and a whole lifestyle system.Further, Dave connects that idea to Chromeo, explaining how the band built an 80s funk world through contrast rather than costume, why charisma still matters in the age of Suno AI and AI-generated music, and how the “human avatar” may become even more important as the back end gets automated.They also discuss Kid Cudi's “Day 'N' Nite,” Fool's Gold Records, the birth of modern emo rap, Lil Peep, Yung Lean, Clams Casino, Lil Uzi Vert, Geese, DJ Sneak, Daft Punk, Radiohead, Kanye West, A$AP Rocky, and the strange grace we give artists after their best albums.On the fashion side, they talk Aimé Leon Dore as integrated fashion, Supreme and Dior Homme coffee machines, Rick Owens lifers, Tom Ford's symbolic universe, Haider Ackermann, Berluti cowboy boots, Soshiotsuki, Anthony Vaccarello, Demna at Gucci, Kozaburo, how to interact with Thom Browne on a budget, Balmain by Christophe Decarnin, moto denim, Saint Laurent patina, eBay archive finds, vintage Abercrombie, CDLP, DEVOA, Issey Miyake, and why brands that sell a world—not just a garment—keep winning. We hope you enjoy this one as much as we did.Questions answered in this episode:- Why is Hedi Slimane influential?- What is a Hedi Boy?- Are skinny jeans coming back?- Why are Celine skinny jeans popular again?- What is integrated fashion?- Why do fashion brands sell lifestyle now?- What makes a brand universe successful?- How do music and fashion influence each other?- Why do Supreme, CELINE, Dior Homme, Saint Laurent, Rick Owens, and Tom Ford create such strong cultural identities?- How will AI music change musicians?- Will AI replace artists?- Why does charisma matter in live performance?- Why was Kid Cudi's “Day 'n' Nite” important?- Why is A$AP Rocky considered a fashion artist?- What makes archive fashion valuable?- How do Grailed, eBay, and Discogs shape taste?- What brands are exciting right now? Lots of love!Sol---Episode Tags: Dave Macklovitch, Dave 1, Chromeo, Pair of Kings, Hedi Slimane, Hedi Boys, Celine, Dior Homme, Saint Laurent, integrated fashion, fashion podcast, menswear podcast, archive fashion, indie sleaze, AI music, Suno AI, Kid Cudi, Day N Nite, Fool's Gold Records, A$AP Rocky, Rick Owens, Tom Ford, Haider Ackermann, Demna Gucci, Kozaburo, Soshiotsuki, Thom Browne, Balmain Decarnin, Grailed, vintage menswear#fashionpodcast #chromeo #hedislimane #celine #saintlaurent #diorSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a monthLinks:InstagramTikTokTwitter/XSol's Substack (One Size Fits All)Sol's InstagramMichael's InstagramMichael's TikTok

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, sports media personality Michael Smith joined the Cubs for a Cure Radiothon to share his powerful story about his late wife's fight against cancer and the toll the terrible disease takes on a family; Chicago Sports Network analyst Clay Harbor joined the Mully & Haugh Show to share insight on a few free agents who are still available who could be fits for the Bears; and Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer joined the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show to discuss the Cubs' recent struggles, center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong's vulgar comment toward a fan and more.

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, sports media personality Michael Smith joined the Cubs for a Cure Radiothon to share his powerful story about his late wife's fight against cancer and the toll the terrible disease takes on a family; Chicago Sports Network analyst Clay Harbor joined the Mully & Haugh Show to share insight on a few free agents who are still available who could be fits for the Bears; and Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer joined the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show to discuss the Cubs' recent struggles, center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong's vulgar comment toward a fan and more.

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, sports media personality Michael Smith joined the Cubs for a Cure Radiothon to share his powerful story about his late wife's fight against cancer and the toll the terrible disease takes on a family; Chicago Sports Network analyst Clay Harbor joined the Mully & Haugh Show to share insight on a few free agents who are still available who could be fits for the Bears; and Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer joined the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show to discuss the Cubs' recent struggles, center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong's vulgar comment toward a fan and more.

Cubs for a Cure: Revisiting Michael Smith's powerful story of his wife's battle against cancer (Hour 18) full 2417 Fri, 22 May 2026 09:10:45 +0000 wiV8CvcVGusAVQgRqX4NENiuWNU0Weto sports Best of 104.3 The Score sports Cubs for a Cure: Revisiting Michael Smith's powerful story of his wife's battle against cancer (Hour 18) Best of 104.3 The Score Best of 104.3 The Score is a curated snapshot of the station at its best, delivering the standout moments Chicago sports fans don't want to miss. Featuring top interviews, expert commentary, and memorable segments from across the lineup, the podcast covers everything from Bears Sundays and Cubs summers to Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox headlines. Whether you're catching up or reliving the biggest conversations of the day, Best of 104.3 The Score brings the voices, stories, and debates that power Chicago sports talk into one easy listen. © 2026 Audacy, Inc. Sports

Cubs for a Cure: Michael Smith calls back in and more of your calls (Hour 14) full 3246 Fri, 22 May 2026 04:37:50 +0000 M2qPgiUiToMKG5ftysfkU3qCBFjVYmp0 sports Best of 104.3 The Score sports Cubs for a Cure: Michael Smith calls back in and more of your calls (Hour 14) Best of 104.3 The Score Best of 104.3 The Score is a curated snapshot of the station at its best, delivering the standout moments Chicago sports fans don't want to miss. Featuring top interviews, expert commentary, and memorable segments from across the lineup, the podcast covers everything from Bears Sundays and Cubs summers to Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox headlines. Whether you're catching up or reliving the biggest conversations of the day, Best of 104.3 The Score brings the voices, stories, and debates that power Chicago sports talk into one easy listen. © 2026 Audacy, Inc. Sports https://player.am

Cubs for a Cure: Michael Smith & Ian Happ get emotional remembering their loved ones (Hour 7) full 2784 Thu, 21 May 2026 22:19:32 +0000 zisNOYly8Lu3pklXmUCYPJib6NTvX3pV sports Best of 104.3 The Score sports Cubs for a Cure: Michael Smith & Ian Happ get emotional remembering their loved ones (Hour 7) Best of 104.3 The Score Best of 104.3 The Score is a curated snapshot of the station at its best, delivering the standout moments Chicago sports fans don't want to miss. Featuring top interviews, expert commentary, and memorable segments from across the lineup, the podcast covers everything from Bears Sundays and Cubs summers to Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox headlines. Whether you're catching up or reliving the biggest conversations of the day, Best of 104.3 The Score brings the voices, stories, and debates that power Chicago sports talk into one easy listen. © 2026 Audacy, Inc. Sports h

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3566: Michael Smith shows how quickly unchecked credit fraud can unravel someone's career opportunities, insurance costs, and peace of mind, and how persistence, organization, and vigilance helped rebuild both financial stability and confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "She unwound a horrible situation, worked her way out of it by spending hours fixing it and documenting every conversation she had and she now feels invincible financially." "My take away from her case is that we must all be aware of what is going on in our financial life." "If we fail to pay attention, it's possible for bad things to be happening beneath the surface." Episode references: Credit Karma: https://www.creditkarma.com Credit Sesame: https://www.creditsesame.com Annual Credit Report: https://www.annualcreditreport.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3566: Michael Smith shows how quickly unchecked credit fraud can unravel someone's career opportunities, insurance costs, and peace of mind, and how persistence, organization, and vigilance helped rebuild both financial stability and confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "She unwound a horrible situation, worked her way out of it by spending hours fixing it and documenting every conversation she had and she now feels invincible financially." "My take away from her case is that we must all be aware of what is going on in our financial life." "If we fail to pay attention, it's possible for bad things to be happening beneath the surface." Episode references: Credit Karma: https://www.creditkarma.com Credit Sesame: https://www.creditsesame.com Annual Credit Report: https://www.annualcreditreport.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3566: Michael Smith shows how quickly unchecked credit fraud can unravel someone's career opportunities, insurance costs, and peace of mind, and how persistence, organization, and vigilance helped rebuild both financial stability and confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "She unwound a horrible situation, worked her way out of it by spending hours fixing it and documenting every conversation she had and she now feels invincible financially." "My take away from her case is that we must all be aware of what is going on in our financial life." "If we fail to pay attention, it's possible for bad things to be happening beneath the surface." Episode references: Credit Karma: https://www.creditkarma.com Credit Sesame: https://www.creditsesame.com Annual Credit Report: https://www.annualcreditreport.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3565: Michael Smith shares the unsettling story of a woman whose trust was shattered after her fiancé secretly stole her identity and destroyed her credit. As the truth unraveled, she faced emotional devastation, mounting debt, and a complicated recovery process that ultimately sparked a remarkable personal transformation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "The fun part for me was getting updates on her progress and seeing the change in her voice, posture and energy level as things got better." "The worst part of that was that the perpetrator was her fiancé, who is now an ex-fiancé with a warrant out for his arrest." "Telling a complete stranger (me) that story took incredible bravery on her part and she was emotionally drained after telling me how she got into that situation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 56 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith welcomes Jewel Middle School special education teachers Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear for a conversation about mentorship, relationships, and supporting students with diverse needs. Mia, a second-year teacher in a self-contained classroom, and Heather, a veteran educator and mentor teacher, reflect on the connection they've built through the district's teacher induction program and how that support system helps new-to-SD129-educators grow with confidence. The episode also offers an inside look at the different roles special education teachers play in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about collaboration, growth, and the relationships that help both students and teachers thrive in West Aurora School District 129.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3565: Michael Smith shares the unsettling story of a woman whose trust was shattered after her fiancé secretly stole her identity and destroyed her credit. As the truth unraveled, she faced emotional devastation, mounting debt, and a complicated recovery process that ultimately sparked a remarkable personal transformation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "The fun part for me was getting updates on her progress and seeing the change in her voice, posture and energy level as things got better." "The worst part of that was that the perpetrator was her fiancé, who is now an ex-fiancé with a warrant out for his arrest." "Telling a complete stranger (me) that story took incredible bravery on her part and she was emotionally drained after telling me how she got into that situation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3565: Michael Smith shares the unsettling story of a woman whose trust was shattered after her fiancé secretly stole her identity and destroyed her credit. As the truth unraveled, she faced emotional devastation, mounting debt, and a complicated recovery process that ultimately sparked a remarkable personal transformation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/01/02/the-price-of-inattenton/ Quotes to ponder: "The fun part for me was getting updates on her progress and seeing the change in her voice, posture and energy level as things got better." "The worst part of that was that the perpetrator was her fiancé, who is now an ex-fiancé with a warrant out for his arrest." "Telling a complete stranger (me) that story took incredible bravery on her part and she was emotionally drained after telling me how she got into that situation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who was Stanley DeSantis? Why is a 2004 Slipknot tee selling for $2,000? And what does a Daft Punk Roulette residency shirt have to do with how fashion brands sell you a lifestyle in 2026?Sol Thompson and Michael Smith return from their Neuehouse live recording for Episode 3 of Pair of Kings Season 14, continuing the season's deep dive into integrated fashion — the symbiotic loop where brands, hobbies, and ephemera matter more than the clothes. This week the boys go solo on the post-COVID explosion of the vintage band tee resale market and the story of Stanley DeSantis, the late character actor turned licensing impresario whose 90s company Passing For Sane made some of the most collectible all-over print T-shirts ever: X-Files, Aeon Flux, Spawn, Wizard of Oz, Speed Racer, Beavis and Butt-Head, Gone With the Wind, Pink Panther, Independence Day. The man licensed everything.Sol and Michael unpack why vintage T-shirts became fashion's most contested asset class: NYC's 8x vintage multiplier, why Slipknot Iowa-era merch and Daft Punk Vegas Roulette tees command four-figure resale on eBay and Whatnot, single stitch vs. double stitch hems, and the rodent-brain instinct of saving a Dub Tribe Sound System eBay search for years. They revisit the Miu Miu Literary Club through intellectual signaling (Simone de Beauvoir, Fumiko Enchi), the Aimé Leon Dore x Porsche 993 Turbo collab, defend RRL as American integrated fashion's original blueprint, and confront the imposter syndrome of wearing someone else's faded jeans.Other topics: Hedi Slimane Dior Homme resale gatekeeping, Charlie XCX Pop 2 merch as a future grail, the $3,700 Lady Gaga Schott Perfecto, why Akira and Ghost in the Shell tees became NFTs from first principles, scenecore and metalcore history (Suicide Silence, Dance Gavin Dance, The Used, Odd Future), Graceland Ridgewood, Rick Birkenstocks, and a moment for the goat — Stanley DeSantis, 1953–2005.Brought to you by ScentSplit. Tune in next week for a conversation on the artist as avatar.Lots of love!SolTags: Stanley DeSantis, Passing For Sane, vintage band tees, 90s licensed apparel, all over print t-shirts, integrated fashion, Pair of Kings podcast, fashion podcast 2026, menswear podcast, Slipknot Iowa shirt, Daft Punk Roulette, Hedi Slimane Dior Homme, Lady Gaga Fame Monster, Charlie XCX Pop 2, Aimé Leon Dore Porsche, Miu Miu Literary Club, RRL, Aeon Flux shirt, X-Files vintage, Ghost in the Shell tee, NYC vintage multiplier, Graceland Ridgewood, scenecore, archive fashion, ephemera fashionSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a monthLinks:InstagramTikTokTwitter/XSol's Substack (One Size Fits All)Sol's InstagramMichael's InstagramMichael's TikTok

When musician Michael Smith couldn't find an audience for his music, he manufactured it. By unleashing thousands of bots to listen to thousands of fake AI-generated songs on Spotify and other platforms, Smith earned millions in royalties before getting caught.Resources:North Carolina Musician Charged with Music Streaming Fraud Aided by Artificial Intelligence — U.S. Department of JusticeNorth Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Music Streaming Fraud Aided by Artificial Intelligence — U.S. Department of JusticeIndictment: United States v. Michael Smith — U.S. Department of Justice PDFSpotify says it now has more than 100 million songsSpotify Q4 2025 Earnings ReportAlthough the songs and listeners were fake, the millions of dollars Smith stole was real — MusicRadarSpotify's fake artists problem gets weirder with AI-generated albums — The VergeArtificial Streaming — Spotify for ArtistsHow Royalties Work on Spotify — Spotify Loud & ClearDeezer launches artist-centric payment systemBillie Eilish Was Discovered on Spotify and SoundCloud Before Global Fame — Rolling StoneSofi Tukker on Streaming Success and Spotify DiscoverySend us Fan MailSupport the show

Michael Smith from the City of Kalamazoo shares actions taken by the Kalamazoo City Commission at their regular meeting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Is fashion still just about clothes? Why are cars, watches, and Formula 1 the new menswear? What does Aime Leon Dore have to do with Porsche, and why, in an age of automation, are buyers paying a premium for things that are...worse?Sol Thompson and Michael Smith sit down with Wesley Breed, the New York-based influencer, storyteller, and car enthusiast who pivoted his fashion platform into automotive content, to unpack the rise of "integrated fashion": the symbiotic loop between brands, hobbies, and identity that's redefining men's style in 2026.Recorded live at Neuehouse, the trio dig into how taste is built across cars, clothing, and watches, why hyper-niche content outperforms mass content on social media, and why mid-century craft is making a comeback. We continue to chat about Wesley's charity car show, how Adidas reframed Mercedes-AMG F1 with the Y-3 collection at the Miami Grand Prix, Yohji Yamamoto's soccer kits, why Nike's stock keeps tumbling while Adidas eats their lunch, Nike ACG sponsoring the F.A.T. Ice Race in Montana with Ferdi Porsche, Meyers Manx, and Tuttle, the Porsche Carrera GT hammering for $6.7M at Amelia Island, and why pre-exit Helmut Lang and Raf Simons-era Prada hold value.We don't just cover fashion; we discuss Aime Leon Dore x Porsche collabs, Lewis Hamilton's Rick Owens and Kartik Research wardrobe, Mario Balotelli as the original unintentional style icon, the Puma Speedcat's roots in Michael Schumacher's Ferrari race boots, Why AI drives buyers towards things they can feel, and watches from Casio to Patek Philippe complications. Plus: Frank Ocean wearing Jenny Holzer at Panorama, white Ferrari t-shirts, NYU Gallatin self-designed majors, Wesley parting with his Margiela, Comme des Garcons, and Rick Owens archive for comfort, Kozaburo as the designer to watch in 2026, the Green Street SoHo car meet scene, and why loving the thing beats owning it.Hope you enjoy as much as we did recording. Huge thanks to Neuehouse for hosting us and everyone that came!Lots of love!SolTags: Wesley Breed, Pair of Kings podcast, integrated fashion, men's fashion 2026, fashion podcast, Aime Leon Dore, ALD Porsche, New Balance 574, F1 fashion, Mercedes F1 Adidas, Y-3 Yohji Yamamoto, Nike ACG, F.A.T. Ice Race, Ferdi Porsche, Meyers Manx, Porsche Carrera GT, Lewis Hamilton style, Mario Balotelli fashion, watch culture 2026, Patek Philippe, CasioSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a monthLinks:InstagramTikTokTwitter/XSol's Substack (One Size Fits All)Sol's InstagramMichael's InstagramMichael's TikTok

Alex Moss and Burton DeWitt are back with a new episode of your go-to darts podcast after the latest Players Championship double header!   The boys kick off the show with a look back at this week's ProTour action in Milton Keynes and discuss the latest history-making title for Beau Greaves, who became the first woman to win a ProTour title, as well as reflect on the runner-up Michael Smith almost ending his two-year title drought.   Leon Weber (20:19) calls in after a busy last week in Milton Keynes which saw him win two Development Tour titles. The German looks back on his title double as well as his career in the game so far, from taking up darts during the pandemic to winning his first PDC tour card at European Q-School last year. Leon reflects on a nervy final day at last year's Q-School, how his life has changed after joining the PDC tour full-time, making his mark on the European Tour in his debut season, and his hopes for the rest of 2026 and his main goal to qualify for the PDC World Darts Championship for the first time.   The boys continue their review of the last seven days in darts by giving their thoughts on the weekend's Development Tour action in Milton Keynes, which saw Sebastian Bialecki and Leon Weber pick up a pair of titles each.   Denmark's Jonas Graversen (52:25) joins the show after securing a debut in the PDC World Cup of Darts this summer. The former semi-professional footballer explains how he switched from football to darts, making an immediate impact on the PDC Nordic & Baltic Tour in 2024 and beating Jeffrey de Graaf on his way to a first semi-final, an elbow injury last year that slowed down his progress on the oche, the close race for the Denmark World Cup team this year and earning his spot on the final day before the cut off on Sunday, as well as outlining his aims for the future including a return to Q-School and to one day become a professional.   Join the Darts Strava King group on Strava *** Get your own Alex Moss replica shirt (as worn by our co-host at the Las Vegas Open 2026) from DJD here! A % of the profits will be donated to The Ethan King Fund for Ewing Sarcoma Research *** This podcast is brought to you in association with Darts Corner - the number one online darts retailer! Darts Corner offers the widest selection of darts products from over 30 different manufacturers.  This podcast is sponsored by Darts Atlas - the platform for darts players, venues, and organisations. Darts Atlas is the home of the Amateur Darts Circuit (ADC) with hundreds of tournaments held on the platform every week.  Have you used Darts Atlas before? Share your feedback and experiences with Darts Atlas with us by sending an email to weeklydartscast@gmail.com and be in with a chance of winning some new logo Weekly Dartscast stickers! Check out Condor Darts here: UK site *** Enjoy our podcast? Make a one-off donation on our new Ko-Fi page here: ko-fi.com/weeklydartscast Support us on Patreon from just $2(+VAT): patreon.com/WeeklyDartscast Thank you to our Patreon members: Phil Moss, Gordon Skinner, Connor Ellis

Hosts: Ed Jones (Owner – Nutrition World) & Clint Powell A variety of topics all related to living a healthy lifestyle Presented by: Nutrition World www.nutritionw.com Broadcasting from the Nooga Dentistry Studio www.noogadentistry.com Production of: Whitfield Media Group www.vitalhealthradio.com Show Summary & Time Stamps: Title: Peak Span Living: A2 Milk, Oxalates, and AI-Optimized Health [0:00:00] Intro, and Today's Agenda Ed previews today's focus: A1 vs. A2 milk Ed's “Where did Ed eat this week in Chattanooga?” food rundown. [0:02:43] “Where Did Ed Eat?” – Restaurant Choices & Macro Strategy Ed's restaurant decision “trifecta”: Macros & food quality (close to the earth, protein and fats quality). Type of fat (prefers healthy fats; brings his own olive oil). Carbs ≤ 60 grams per meal when possible. Stops & comments: Maple Street Biscuit Company – Impressed overall; chooses a bowl (eggs, bacon, avocado, tomato, feta) instead of biscuits to keep carbs lower. Doc Holiday (Hixson) – Tallow-cooked foods, excellent broccoli, “biker bar” vibe but friendly. Miller's Ale House – Fresh salad with olive oil only; hamburger steak (no gravy) with mushrooms/onions; occasional baked potato post–workout for carbs. Acropolis – Long-time favorite; good quality foods. Only criticism: no real butter for steak (avoids margarine). Portofino – Typically orders shish kebabs (high protein, low carb), with broccoli and salad; brings own olive oil.  Harry's at Hamilton Place – Custom “Lexatonian” salad, light dressing, double ground beef = high protein, moderate carbs, low fat (adds olive oil). Transition: Ed mentions hiring PR expert Amy Summers (NYC) to push Nutrition World and The Holistic Navigator onto national TV. [0:08:36] New Ebooks & Key Health Themes Ed outlines his growing ebook library (free at theholisticnavigator.com/resources): Sleep: Strategies for improving restorative sleep. “Are You Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired?”  Food choices Nutrients Ed's personal ~68 pills/day longevity stack (not a recommendation, but max-longevity model). Immune System: Maintenance + what to do “when under the weather.” Oxalates:How certain “healthy” foods (oxalates) can destroy joints and drive pain. Core Four: If you only take four supplements, which foundational ones matter most from Ed's 47 years of observation. (Coming) Using AI to massively optimize health & fitness – Ed uses AI multiple times a day to optimize training, eating, supplements, and protein for his upcoming Chattanooga Fitness bodybuilding contest (11 weeks out). Quick side notes: Iodine nasal spray – New formulation he and Clint like: less burn, better value, used 2–3x/day. Reminder about Best of the Best local voting, including Nutrition World and podcast nominations. [0:15:38] Fruits/Veg & Lung Cancer Article, Glyphosate, and “Health Halo” Effect Topic: Article headline – more fruits and vegetables linked to higher lung cancer risk (under age 50). Ed's three-part interpretation: Glyphosate (Roundup) exposure: More produce = more glyphosate, unless it's clean. References Dr. Zach Bush's work on glyphosate and chronic disease. Suggests Fire Hawk herbicide (sold at Nutrition World) as a glyphosate-free yard option (dehydrates plants rather than poisoning). Fear as a toxin – Long-term fear can crush health, even when intentions are to “eat healthy.” Health halo compensation effect: Study reviewed by Dr. Greger (nutritionfacts.org): Adding healthy foods to fast-food menus led people to eat more unhealthy items: “If I eat the salad/broccoli, I can have double fries + dessert.” Psychological “armor” effect from one healthy choice leading to more indulgence. [0:19:38] Supplements, Safety Fears, Herbs & Tryptophan Case Discussion of fear-driven headlines around herbs and liver toxicity: Example: a Chinese herb flagged for liver issues; deeper read shows cases involved people also on multiple drugs. Comfrey is the one herb Ed agrees shouldn't have been sold widely due to genuine liver toxicity (Nutrition World doesn't sell it). Tryptophan contamination incident (25–30 years ago): One bad overseas batch contaminated in production (likely bacterial issue). Resulted in deaths, but: Problem was manufacturing contamination, not tryptophan itself. Takeaway: Quality and clean manufacturing are crucial. Long-standing, widely used herbs/supplements would have more robust safety signals by now if they were truly dangerous. [0:21:41] Toilet Paper Chemicals & “Real” Brand Recommendation Ed cites testing from Mamavation on toxic chemicals in toilet paper: Concern: endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can be absorbed through sensitive, moist tissue. Ed's preferred brand at Nutrition World: Reel: 3-ply, No inks, dyes, BPA and made from bamboo. “Lower-chemical” grocery-store options from the Mamavation testing: Angel Soft 230+ Cottonelle Mega Ultra Kirkland Bath Tissue (Costco) Trader Joe's toilet paper Quilted Northern Ultra Plush Clint's push: Rather than memorize brands and chemistry, just shop where you trust the vetting (e.g., Nutrition World). [0:25:03] A1 vs. A2 Milk, Lactose Intolerance & Ancient Nutrition A2 Study discussed (Chinese adults, n=600): Compared: Conventional milk (contains A1 beta-casein) vs A2-only milk (contains A2 beta-casein). Key findings: Reduced GI symptoms (bloating, abdominal pain, etc.) with A2 milk. Benefits observed across different age groups, both lactose absorbers and malabsorbers. Implications: Many who believe they're lactose intolerant may actually be reacting to A1 casein, not lactose. A2 milk/protein could allow some to tolerate dairy better. Practical angle: Ed personally drinks Ancient Nutrition A2 protein and tolerates it very well. Clint notes some standard protein drinks upset his digestion. [0:27:11] Autism, EMFs, and Mitigation Tools Framing: Autism as a systems issue, not a single-disease point. Cites Dr. Martha Herbert's perspective: Autism may develop from environmental irritants that excite the brain: Toxins (e.g., mercury, glyphosate) Allergens EMFs (electromagnetic fields) Vaccine adjuvants/excipients, etc. EMFs & mitigation: Ed acknowledges we can't avoid EMFs (phones, Wi-Fi, 5G), but we can reduce exposure. Tools Ed uses: SafeSleeve phone case: Claims ~90% EMF reduction; Ed's own measurements suggest ~60%. Effective when phone is close to the body. Blue Shield EMF devices: Plugs in, emits “healthy EMF” fields that may reduce impact of other EMFs. Ed uses a ~$500 model in his bedroom. Mentions BlueShield.com, discount code “nutworld”. [0:30:40] Paternal Exercise & Offspring Fitness (MicroRNA Study) Citing work discussed by Peter Attia: Paternal exercise before conception can improve offspring endurance capacity. Mechanism: changes in sperm microRNA profiles. Mouse model: Transferring RNA from fit to unfit mice improved fitness traits in offspring. Ed's takeaway: Yet another compelling reason for men to exercise before having children. Wonders if his own daughter benefited from his lifelong fitness. [0:35:37] Peak Span, Aging, Sleep, Mouth Tape & Oxalate Pain Ed defines “Peak Span” as: The period of life where we maintain near-optimal health, vitality, and energy (like our 20s). Notes U.S. spends $5.1 trillion on healthcare (18% of GDP) yet ranks 35/36 among high-income countries in outcomes. Mistakes shortening peak span: Poor diet (inflammatory foods, bad fats, high carbs). Confusion around what “healthy eating” means. Underestimating small daily habits. Sleep: 25% of Americans have diagnosable insomnia, ~50% have occasional insomnia 1st big issue: loss of sleep rhythm: Irregular bedtimes fragment circadian patterns. Recommends going to bed within 1 hour of the same time most nights. Single high-impact change: stop mouth breathing at night. Ed has used mouth tape for ~25 years. Benefits: less anxiety, better restorative sleep (cites James Nestor's “Breath”). Uses an Oura Ring and sees notable improvements with mouth taping. Pain & Oxalates: Ed's history: 25 years of rotating pains; then severe hip pain leading to bilateral hip replacement. Suspects long-term high oxalate diet as a major contributor. High-oxalate foods he over-consumed: Spinach Beets Almonds & almond butter Raspberries and other known high-oxalate foods. Source: Sally Norton's “Toxic Superfoods”. Elimination approach: No perfect test; best method is removing high-oxalate foods and observing. Often, pain temporarily worsens in 2–4 weeks as oxalates mobilize, then improves. Result: Now, near age 69, Ed reports zero pain after hip replacements + oxalate restriction. [0:44:14] Using AI as a Health & Fitness Coach Ed uses AI (specifically ChatGPT) as a: Training coach for his bodybuilding prep (11 weeks out). Nutrition advisor and accountability partner. Inputs: Goals and timeline. Age, weight, health status. Photos of himself. Photos of every meal (taken at a 45° angle). AI provides: Calorie and macro estimates (calories often “spot on”). Advice: “Too much / too little,” adjust protein/fat/carbs. Day-to-day training and nutrition refinements. Role vs. human coaching: Doesn't replace human experts; can complement them. Ed still believes in a “team” approach (quality practitioners + AI). [0:46:00] Where to Find Ed's Content & Resources Ed's main platforms: TikTok: “Nutrition World Tennessee” – many short-form health and performance clips (especially athletics). Website: nutritionw.com – hub for: Store Articles, videos, education. The Holistic Navigator (theholisticnavigator.com): Home for his ebooks (sleep, immune, oxalates, core four, AI & health, etc.). Long-form educational content. Podcasts / Radio: Vital Health Radio – full archive at vitalhealthradio.com and all major podcast apps. Other shows hosted or shared via noogapodcasts.com (Clint's platform). [0:52:21] Melatonin, Sleep, Cold Therapy, and Upcoming Peptide Episode Melatonin: Notes that ~99% of melatonin on the market is synthetic. Issues some people experience with synthetic forms: Vivid dreams & Inconsistent sleep quality. Recommends Symphony brand: Plant-derived melatonin, not synthesized. Immune aspects: Mentions integrative cancer doctors using high-dose melatonin in protocols. References Dr. Michael Smith discussing high-dose melatonin in COVID on The Holistic Navigator. Cold therapy & gout: Dr. Greger review: cold-water immersion for gout: 20 minutes/day in cold water for a few weeks: ↓ pain, stress, anxiety, depression. ↑ joint mobility, activity, quality of life. For general muscle pain, cold immersion: Only helps during immersion; no lasting benefit. Heat is more beneficial for ongoing muscle pain after the acute phase. Exception: first ~24 hours post-injury when cold can curb acute inflammation (classic RICE). Peptides & future content: Mentions RFK Jr. and the possibility of peptide injections reaching shelves with regulatory shifts. The post Radio Show / Podcast – April 26, 2026 first appeared on Vital Health Radio.

In Episode 55 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith is joined by West Aurora High School senior and student board representative Dexter McWilliams for a student-centered conversation on the district's “off and away” cell phone policy. Dexter shares his journey through SD129, highlighting the relationships, activities, and experiences that shaped his high school years, while offering an honest perspective on how the policy has impacted learning and classroom culture. The discussion explores both the challenges and unexpected benefits, including increased focus, stronger peer connections, and improved productivity. Tune in for a thoughtful look at this initiative through the lens of a student voice and what it means for the future of learning at West Aurora.

Why does every fashion brand run a coffee shop? How did a Stussy varsity jacket network from the late 1980s predict the business model of modern fashion? What does used spray paint have to do with why Miu Miu is one of the most effective brands in the world right now?Sol Thompson and Michael Smith open Season 14 of the Pair of Kings Podcast with a level set: the history of integrated fashion—the idea that buying clothes has always really been about buying into a lifestyle, a cult of personality, and an identity. Starting in 2014 at the height of Tumblr's image-first culture and tracing the full arc through Supreme drop culture, the grail sneaker peak, the outfit grid, the crash of sneaker resale, the rise of archive fashion, and the TikTok lifestyle-as-content revolution, they map how men's relationship with fashion fundamentally changed.They cover the Stüssy Tribe as fashion's original brand ambassador model—featuring Hiroshi Fujiwara, Michael Kopelman, and a pre-Supreme James Jebbia—the Supreme x LV collab as the undisputed peak of drop culture, Kith Treats and Cafe Leon Dore as the architects of the fashion third space, and the Miu Miu Literary Club as the most transparent example of what fashion brands are actually selling. We also touch on Demna's debut Gucci collection and his philosophy as a fashion anthropologist, the Hedi Slimane Saint Laurent Hedi boy cult of personality, the runway appearances of looksmaxxing and body dysmorphia, Vivienne Westwood and punk as integrated fashion's original historical anchor, the CBK/JFK aesthetic overtaking downtown New York, and what it means when even finance bros start buying Celine suits on purpose.Michael's fit: Wabash denim from Sugar Cane, Flat Head houndstooth flannel.Sol's fit: a Daft Punk Musique Vol. 1 CD release tee and a North Face layer.We hope you enjoy it as much as we did making it.Lots of love,Sol---Episode Tags: integrated fashion, fashion lifestyle, menswear history 2026, drop culture history, grail sneakers, Stussy Tribe, Supreme x Louis Vuitton collab, archive fashion rise, sneaker resale crash, StockX history, Cafe Leon Dore, Kith Treats, fashion third space, Miu Miu Literary Club, Miu Miu girl, Demna Gvasalia Gucci 2026, Hedi Slimane Saint Laurent, Hedi boy aesthetic, Vivienne Westwood punk, looksmaxxing fashion, CBK JFK New York aesthetic, finance bro style 2026, Patagonia vest, Tumblr fashion era, outfit grid, KOTD, Instagram reels fashion, Hiroshi Fujiwara, James Jebbia, A$AP Rocky fashion, Rick Owens darkwear, archive PDF, menswear podcast 2026, Pair of Kings podcast, fashion podcastSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a monthLinks:InstagramTikTokTwitter/XSol's Substack (One Size Fits All)Sol's InstagramMichael's InstagramMichael's TikTok

Michael “Valentine” Smith is a co-founder of CFAR (the Center for Applied Rationality) and the author of influential LessWrong essays including The Hostile Telepaths Problem, Kenshō, and The Intelligent Social Web. He's also been described as “one of the most powerful wizards in the Bay Area.”In this conversation, he explains why your brain creates fog and self-deception to survive social situations, what it actually takes to find clarity, and why "working on yourself" might be the wrong frame entirely. We also do a live coaching demo debugging my own procrastination. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themetagame.substack.com

KFC's new ‘Pickle Mania' menu includes Pickle Pepsi, air-fried pasta salad, the meteor that fell over Houston, Texas, crawfish outlook strong despite early harvest delays, who's the worst passenger to sit next to on a three-hour flight, singer-songwriter Michael Smith pleads guilty to defrauding music streamers out of millions using AI, fashion's 20-year rule is now backed up by math — plus more news. 

In Episode 54 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with Dr. Robert Halverson, Superintendent of East Aurora School District 131, for a crosstown conversation rooted in shared experiences and community. They reflect on their similar paths from classroom teachers to district leadership and the mentors and relationships that shaped their journeys. The discussion highlights how those lessons influence their leadership today, while also looking ahead to expanded opportunities for students and stronger East-West collaboration. Tune in for a thoughtful look at leadership, partnership, and the shared commitment to supporting every student in Aurora.    

We're checkin' on the Checkoff as hosts Michael Smith and Bailey Watson highlight Alabama Checkoff events upcoming on the calendar this spring season. The lineup includes Beef 101 sessions, stockyard visits, the Young Cattlemen's Leadership Program, and upcoming youth events like the Spring Youth Field Day, state beef cook-off, and the AJCA Cattle Working Contest. The duo also preview AJCA Round-Up and this weekend's happening event— the 69th Annual SLE Rodeo. Saddle up, it's springtime! 

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses the importance of getting animals out grazing and why on/off grazing is the best approach to get going. Plus, getting the farm ready to move and having fertiliser ordered and in the yard will allow farms to take the opportunity spread when conditions allow Meanwhile, Michael Smith from Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan is this week's featured farmer. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-10thMarch  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

In this powerful episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, host LA Williams, the Blind Phone Master, sits down with Michael Smith, Sales Professional at Fort Wayne Toyota Lexus, for a conversation that goes far beyond the typical dealership success story. "Either you have a positive mindset, and you feel like you overcome it, or you can say, woe is me, and be negative and just give up. Well, I'm never the type to give up." - Michael Smith Michael's journey into the automotive industry didn't follow a traditional path, and along the way, he faced a life-altering challenge that would have forced many people to give up entirely. Instead, it became the catalyst for a completely different level of determination, perspective, and success. "There was something that kept you fighting, right? There was something that deep down inside of you said, I'm not done yet." - LA Williams  What unfolds in this episode is a deeply human discussion about resilience, mindset, and what it really takes to build a lasting career in automotive sales. Michael shares the philosophy that has shaped his approach to customers, relationships, and personal growth, offering insights that challenge the transactional mentality often found in the car business. "I want to make sure that I'm leaving in a better place than it was when I started in the business and that people know it's the most important thing." - Michael Smith From redefining adversity to building meaningful connections with customers, this episode reveals how mindset, patience, and purpose can transform both a career and a life. If you've ever wondered what separates those who simply sell cars from those who truly build something bigger, this conversation will leave you thinking long after the episode ends.   Key Takeaways: ✅ Michael Smith overcame a life-changing stroke and returned to the automotive sales industry with even greater success, proving that resilience is key in any professional journey. ✅ Building genuine relationships with clients is fundamental to long-term success in car sales, as emphasized by Michael's approach to customer service. ✅ Michael transitioned from a legal career to automotive sales and found equal financial success, demonstrating the lucrative potential of the car sales industry. ✅ The stroke prompted Michael to develop patience and a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of human connections, fueling his sales approach. ✅ Embracing a positive mindset and refusing to live down to anyone's expectations has been a crucial part of Michael's recovery and professional achievements.   About Michael Smith Michael Smith is a seasoned professional in the automotive sales industry currently selling cars at Fort Wayne Toyota/Lexus. Formerly a lawyer, Michael transitioned to automotive sales more than a decade ago, where he quickly excelled. He is a dedicated salesperson at Fort Wayne Toyota Lexus and has consistently sold a substantial number of cars each month. His career in sales was notably marked by resilience and adaptability following a life-changing stroke in 2013. Despite the setbacks, Michael returned to the sales floor with a renewed focus on customer relationships and helping clients meet their transportation needs.   Navigating Life's Curveballs: Lessons from a Car Salesman's Resilient Journey   Key Takeaways: Embracing adversity is pivotal for growth; resilience is a non-negotiable trait in both personal and professional life. Building genuine relationships in the automotive sales industry creates lasting success. Maintaining an environment of empathy and understanding elevates not only personal triumphs but also impacts the broader business atmosphere. The Power of Resilience in Overcoming Adversity Resilience is a quintessential element in life, especially when facing unforeseen challenges that test the limits of human strength and determination. This sentiment is exemplified by Michael Smith, a car salesman at Fort Wayne Toyota Lexus, who recounted his experience dealing with a stroke while at work. "The biggest one is that on 1226 of 2013, I had a stroke while I was at work," Michael states. This moment marked a watershed in his life, illustrating the stark, unpredictable realities of life and work. Despite this adversity, Michael's story offers valuable insights into the heart and resolve required to navigate life's unexpected paths. Michael's narrative is a testament to the importance of resilience: "Well, I'm blessed in that… my cognitive abilities… didn't lose them." He turns what others might see as limitations into unique attributes, highlighting that resilience is not merely a reaction to adversity, but a commitment to overcoming it. His story encourages others in any field of work to continue pushing forward, regardless of the hurdles they face. Building Relationships: The Heartbeat of Sales Success In the competitive world of automotive sales, the power of relationship-building cannot be understated. Michael, once a practicing lawyer, found himself drawn to the car sales industry, driven by "the desire to help people." His approach was grounded in authenticity and care, making it clear that successful sales professionals prioritize the human element in transactions. Michael's philosophy in sales is straightforward: "Make it a relationship." In doing so, he not only sells vehicles but also builds trust and long-lasting connections. "Strangers become friends, and friends become family," he shares, describing how he manages to cultivate loyalty and return business. The relational approach he champions is critical for those aiming to not only survive but thrive in sales. "My clients are my friends," he states confidently. This principle is not just a strategy but a creed, underscoring the integral role of empathy and honest communication in fostering client loyalty. In a business often perceived as transactional, Michael demonstrates the profound impact of genuinely caring about the people behind the transactions. Compassion and Empathy: The Secret Ingredients for Leadership and Success Adversity often reshapes perspectives, revealing the significant role of compassion and empathy in effective leadership. For Michael, experiencing a life-altering stroke has influenced his approach to engaging with both clients and colleagues. He stresses the importance of patience and understanding, advocating for a more compassionate view of others' behaviors. This epiphany stems from his firsthand experience with challenges, rendering him more insightful: "There's not enough listening to other people that goes on." Michael's newfound appreciation for human complexities informs his dealings, prompting others to appreciate the significance of empathy in daily operations and leadership. His story transforms the abstract notion of empathy into a tangible, daily practice. "People… they want to help," he reveals. The ability to understand and share feelings amplifies trust and cohesion within a team, while enhancing the dealership's overall customer experience. Michael's journey serves as a compelling reminder that leadership grounded in empathy can catalyze positive business transformations. Michael Smith's journey underscores an indispensable journey of resilience, relationships, and empathy. These themes carve a path to not only personal success but transformative leadership within the automotive industry. For any professional striving for excellence, the lessons imparted by Michael's life story are as practical as they are inspiring. His perspective invites us to reconsider the way challenges are perceived. By nurturing genuine connections and leading with understanding, professionals can adhere to what Michael exemplifies—a life and career driven by purpose, resolve, and unyielding resilience. This mindset, when applied to business and beyond, fosters an environment where true fulfillment and success can thrive.     Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Automotive Sales Mastermind Facebook Group with over 29,000 automotive professionals worldwide. The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group is the go-to community for car salespeople, BDC agents, sales managers, general managers, and dealer principals looking to increase performance, income, and leadership skills. Inside the group, members collaborate daily on automotive sales strategies, lead handling, phone scripts, closing techniques, CRM best practices, dealership leadership, and accountability systems. Learn directly from top automotive trainers, industry mentors, and high-performing sales leaders who are actively winning in today's market. If you're serious about growing your automotive career, increasing car sales, and building long-term success, join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: Dealer Synergy is the automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm, with over 20 years of proven dealership success nationwide. We specialize in helping car dealerships increase sales, improve processes, and build high-performing Sales, Internet, and BDC departments from the ground up. Our expertise includes automotive phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, BDC workflows, Internet sales processes, management training, and accountability systems. Dealer Synergy partners directly with dealership leadership to align people, process, and technology, ensuring consistent results and scalable growth. From independent dealers to large dealer groups and OEM partnerships, Dealer Synergy delivers measurable performance improvements, stronger teams, and sustainable profitability. ➼ Bradley On Demand: Bradley On Demand is the automotive industry's most advanced interactive training, tracking, testing, and certification platform for car dealerships — built to develop top-performing teams across Sales, Internet Sales, BDC, CRM, Phone Skills, Leadership, and Management. In addition to LIVE virtual automotive training classes and a library of 9,000+ on-demand dealership training modules, Bradley On Demand now includes AI Phone Roleplaying and Coaching to help salespeople and BDC agents practice real dealership conversations before they ever get on the phone with customers. This AI-powered roleplay technology strengthens phone scripts, objection handling, appointment setting, lead follow-up, and closing skills, while providing measurable coaching feedback for continuous improvement. Bradley On Demand empowers dealerships to train faster, coach smarter, improve call performance, increase closing ratios, and sell more cars more profitably — all through structured, trackable, modern automotive training.

Is the United States a fascist state? There is an authoritarian in the White House, systemic racism is rampant, our cities and towns are being militarized, concentration camps are under construction, and our politicians are controlled by corporations. Clearing the FOG speaks with longtime activist and lawyer, Michael Smith, host of Law and Disorder and editor of the new book, "From the Flag to the Cross: Fascism American Style", about where the United States is on the path to fascism, what we can expect and what we can do to change course. Smith explains what socialism is and why it is the solution for those who believe in democracy. For more information, visit PopularResistance.org.

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222. Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Is America on the brink of another endless war—or witnessing a swift strategic reset in the Middle East? In Hour 1, John Rush dives headfirst into the escalating conflict with Iran, pushing back against what he calls political fear-mongering from both sides. Do you really need to “gun up,” or is that just opportunism wrapped in panic? John breaks down the War Powers Act, defends presidential authority, and calls out Colorado lawmakers for repeating what he sees as scripted talking points. Is Congress misunderstanding the Constitution—or deliberately distorting it? And could this conflict be over in weeks, not years? He also shares a powerful story from a recent trip to Cabo—an encounter with a self-deported immigrant that sparks a bigger question: Should America create a fast-track path for productive, merit-based citizenship? Plus, insight from caller John on sleeper cells, the Strait of Hormuz, and whether Governor Jared Polis is quietly positioning himself for a 2028 presidential run. Is Iran collapsing faster than the headlines suggest? And is the political class ready for what comes next? HOUR 2 Is the spike in gas prices real—or just market emotion? John opens Hour 2, breaking down oil at $70 a barrel and explaining why America is far less dependent on Middle East imports than a decade ago. Are we reacting to headlines instead of facts? He then tackles the political fallout from the Iran strikes, arguing critics misunderstand presidential war powers—and suggesting deeper ideological roots behind today's anti-Trump sentiment. Is cultural conditioning shaping the national divide more than we realize? The mood shifts when Richard Rush joins the show to talk NASCAR and leadership. How did Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing make history by winning the first three races of the season? Is greatness transferable—and could Jordan's ownership revive the sport? The hour wraps with a car review of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum—a three-row SUV blending hybrid efficiency, 362 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and family-focused practicality without requiring a plug-in. Is this the sweet spot for modern families? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives straight into high-stakes global politics and Colorado controversy. John Rush welcomes Jim Pfaff of The Conservative Caucus to break down the escalating conflict with Iran. Is this a calculated, strategic reset of the global stage? Could weakening Iran reshape Russia, China, and even Ukraine? And is President Trump executing a bold, short-term operation—or taking a historic gamble? The War Powers Act, congressional authority, and America's long-term foreign policy all come under the microscope. Later, Michael Smith, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), joins John to sound the alarm on Colorado's HB 1054. Is this really about worker safety—or a new layer of regulation that could crush small businesses? What happens when state government stacks enforcement on top of federal OSHA? John also tackles Denver Mayor Mike Johnston's order to shield residents from ICE. Can a city legally interfere with federal immigration enforcement—or is this political grandstanding aimed at national headlines? Big questions. High stakes. You won't want to miss it. Guest Timestamps 1:09 – Jim Pfaff – The Conservative Caucus. https://theconservativecaucus.com/ 29:08 – Michael Smith, National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) https://www.nfib.com/

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222. Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Is America on the brink of another endless war—or witnessing a swift strategic reset in the Middle East? In Hour 1, John Rush dives headfirst into the escalating conflict with Iran, pushing back against what he calls political fear-mongering from both sides. Do you really need to “gun up,” or is that just opportunism wrapped in panic? John breaks down the War Powers Act, defends presidential authority, and calls out Colorado lawmakers for repeating what he sees as scripted talking points. Is Congress misunderstanding the Constitution—or deliberately distorting it? And could this conflict be over in weeks, not years? He also shares a powerful story from a recent trip to Cabo—an encounter with a self-deported immigrant that sparks a bigger question: Should America create a fast-track path for productive, merit-based citizenship? Plus, insight from caller John on sleeper cells, the Strait of Hormuz, and whether Governor Jared Polis is quietly positioning himself for a 2028 presidential run. Is Iran collapsing faster than the headlines suggest? And is the political class ready for what comes next? HOUR 2 Is the spike in gas prices real—or just market emotion? John opens Hour 2, breaking down oil at $70 a barrel and explaining why America is far less dependent on Middle East imports than a decade ago. Are we reacting to headlines instead of facts? He then tackles the political fallout from the Iran strikes, arguing critics misunderstand presidential war powers—and suggesting deeper ideological roots behind today's anti-Trump sentiment. Is cultural conditioning shaping the national divide more than we realize? The mood shifts when Richard Rush joins the show to talk NASCAR and leadership. How did Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing make history by winning the first three races of the season? Is greatness transferable—and could Jordan's ownership revive the sport? The hour wraps with a car review of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum—a three-row SUV blending hybrid efficiency, 362 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and family-focused practicality without requiring a plug-in. Is this the sweet spot for modern families? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives straight into high-stakes global politics and Colorado controversy. John Rush welcomes Jim Pfaff of The Conservative Caucus to break down the escalating conflict with Iran. Is this a calculated, strategic reset of the global stage? Could weakening Iran reshape Russia, China, and even Ukraine? And is President Trump executing a bold, short-term operation—or taking a historic gamble? The War Powers Act, congressional authority, and America's long-term foreign policy all come under the microscope. Later, Michael Smith, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), joins John to sound the alarm on Colorado's HB 1054. Is this really about worker safety—or a new layer of regulation that could crush small businesses? What happens when state government stacks enforcement on top of federal OSHA? John also tackles Denver Mayor Mike Johnston's order to shield residents from ICE. Can a city legally interfere with federal immigration enforcement—or is this political grandstanding aimed at national headlines? Big questions. High stakes. You won't want to miss it. Guest Timestamps 1:09 – Jim Pfaff – The Conservative Caucus. https://theconservativecaucus.com/ 29:08 – Michael Smith, National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) https://www.nfib.com/

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222. Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Is America on the brink of another endless war—or witnessing a swift strategic reset in the Middle East? In Hour 1, John Rush dives headfirst into the escalating conflict with Iran, pushing back against what he calls political fear-mongering from both sides. Do you really need to “gun up,” or is that just opportunism wrapped in panic? John breaks down the War Powers Act, defends presidential authority, and calls out Colorado lawmakers for repeating what he sees as scripted talking points. Is Congress misunderstanding the Constitution—or deliberately distorting it? And could this conflict be over in weeks, not years? He also shares a powerful story from a recent trip to Cabo—an encounter with a self-deported immigrant that sparks a bigger question: Should America create a fast-track path for productive, merit-based citizenship? Plus, insight from caller John on sleeper cells, the Strait of Hormuz, and whether Governor Jared Polis is quietly positioning himself for a 2028 presidential run. Is Iran collapsing faster than the headlines suggest? And is the political class ready for what comes next? HOUR 2 Is the spike in gas prices real—or just market emotion? John opens Hour 2, breaking down oil at $70 a barrel and explaining why America is far less dependent on Middle East imports than a decade ago. Are we reacting to headlines instead of facts? He then tackles the political fallout from the Iran strikes, arguing critics misunderstand presidential war powers—and suggesting deeper ideological roots behind today's anti-Trump sentiment. Is cultural conditioning shaping the national divide more than we realize? The mood shifts when Richard Rush joins the show to talk NASCAR and leadership. How did Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing make history by winning the first three races of the season? Is greatness transferable—and could Jordan's ownership revive the sport? The hour wraps with a car review of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum—a three-row SUV blending hybrid efficiency, 362 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and family-focused practicality without requiring a plug-in. Is this the sweet spot for modern families? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives straight into high-stakes global politics and Colorado controversy. John Rush welcomes Jim Pfaff of The Conservative Caucus to break down the escalating conflict with Iran. Is this a calculated, strategic reset of the global stage? Could weakening Iran reshape Russia, China, and even Ukraine? And is President Trump executing a bold, short-term operation—or taking a historic gamble? The War Powers Act, congressional authority, and America's long-term foreign policy all come under the microscope. Later, Michael Smith, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), joins John to sound the alarm on Colorado's HB 1054. Is this really about worker safety—or a new layer of regulation that could crush small businesses? What happens when state government stacks enforcement on top of federal OSHA? John also tackles Denver Mayor Mike Johnston's order to shield residents from ICE. Can a city legally interfere with federal immigration enforcement—or is this political grandstanding aimed at national headlines? Big questions. High stakes. You won't want to miss it. Guest Timestamps 1:09 – Jim Pfaff – The Conservative Caucus. https://theconservativecaucus.com/ 29:08 – Michael Smith, National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) https://www.nfib.com/

In Episode 53 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith centers the conversation on a core question in the district's strategic framework: what it really means to support every learner. Joined by Kelly Cook, Assistant Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and Carlos Guillen, Community Agency and Restorative Practices Coordinator, Dr. Smith explores how strong Tier 1 instruction, structured responsive teaching time (SRTT), and restorative practices work together to meet students' academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. The discussion highlights a shift from “wait to fail” to early identification and proactive support—building consistent expectations, relationships, and psychological safety so students can learn and grow. Tune in for a clear, behind-the-scenes look at the systems and mindsets that help SD129 serve all students, all the time.

Michael Smith is a lifelong swimmer whose relationship with water began at age nine in a small Ohio town with no high school pool. Instead, he had a YMCA, grit, and a first-generation college mindset that later led him to a double major in business management and humanities, advanced graduate work, and a Six Sigma Black Belt. That early path led him to national-level swimming competition, a decades-long pause, and then a powerful return to the sport at age 60. Now 68, Mike remains a pure swimming sprinter who thrives on speed, competition, and continuous improvement. He competes against elite swimmers and former Olympians, chases personal bests, and credits swimming as essential to his mental health and resilience. With his dad cheering from the stands, Mike's story is about rediscovery, discipline, and proving it's never too late to come back stronger.Send a text

Why are men's style guides just glorified affiliate link shopping lists? What should a real style guide for men actually teach you? And how do you build a wardrobe you love without spending a fortune?On the Season 13 finale, Sol and Michael tear apart the modern men's style guide — from GQ and Esquire to The Rake — and expose why today's fashion advice is failing young men. We do what none of those guides bother to do: share real, practical styling tips that will actually make you dress better, starting today. No affiliate links. No product lists. No bullshit.The duo covers how to find a good tailor (and why a $100 vintage suit tailored for $600 beats a $1,000 suit off the rack), why you need to wear your clothes and break them in instead of babysitting them for resale value, how to stop treating clothing as an investment piece, the right way to wash and care for your garments, why trying clothes on in person matters more than ever, how to build your personal style by copying first and evolving over time, and why patience and eBay alerts will get you everything you want for a fraction of retail.They also rant about "end game" brand gatekeeping, Our Legacy, why influencer fashion has broken people's brains, Raf Simons resale culture as a Ponzi scheme, and the forgotten art of just wearing a beat-up Oxford shirt to work every day like a Thom Browne employee. Plus: fit checks featuring a 1971 US military fishtail parka with original blanket liner, Rick Owens drawstring pants and Uggs, a FedEx customs horror story, Joe Pesci's golf fits, the season wrap-up, and a $250 giveaway.We hope you enjoy this one as much as we loved making it. Season 14 returns in four weeks.Lots of love!Sol---Episode Tags: men's style guide 2026, how to dress better, menswear tips, men's fashion advice, style tips for men, how to find a tailor, build a wardrobe on a budget, personal style for men, fashion podcast, Pair of Kings podcast, GQ style guide critique, affiliate link fashion, Rick Owens, Thom Browne, Raf Simons resale, Our Legacy, military surplus fashion, fishtail parka, vintage menswear, garment care tips, eBay fashion finds, streetwear, archive fashion, men's wardrobe essentials, how to wear your clothes, investment piece myth, fashion for young men, Gen Z menswear, dressing well in your 20s, fit check, fashion criticism 2026, break in your boots, tailoring advice Sol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

Paul Jay joins Maria Hall, Jim Lafferty, and Michael Smith on the Law and Disorder radio show. They discuss his upcoming documentary How to Stop a Nuclear War, based on extensive interviews with Daniel Ellsberg and narrated by Emma Thompson. Jay reveals how post-World War II economic decisions drove nuclear weapons expansion, explaining why the Soviet threat was largely manufactured according to declassified CIA documents. He breaks down why Trump's proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system actually increases nuclear war risk, discusses the dangers of AI in nuclear command and control, and outlines seven concrete steps citizens can demand to reduce the threat of nuclear catastrophe, including ending presidential sole authority to launch nuclear weapons and negotiating new arms control treaties. Learn more at stop-nuclear-war.org or visit theAnalysis.news for ongoing investigative journalism.

What does it take to throw the most viral murder mystery parties in New York City? How do you go from pin-up modeling in Pittsburgh to walking for Vaquera at Paris Fashion Week? What happens when Rick Owens calls your name at a casting—but not for the runway?Sol and Michael sit down with Born DuBois—model, stylist, creative director, personal shopper, and the woman i-D Magazine called "A Star is Born"—for her very first podcast. Born has quietly become one of the most interesting people in New York fashion, juggling more jobs than anyone can count while throwing immersive murder mystery dinner parties that have attracted everyone from Interview Magazine stylists to Ella Emhoff.The trio get into everything: how Born writes 20-page plays for her murder mysteries with no outline, her Vaquera runway debut and the surreal experience of having her face printed on the entire collection at Paris Fashion Week, a Maybelline casting where she showed up in a latex bodysuit and was asked to dance, her ASAP Rocky audition that became a monologue about Amish country, accidentally getting high on cold medicine for a Nike billboard shoot at Madison Square Garden, moving to New York to get on SNL, getting kicked out of improv class for being too funny, the story behind her Numero Berlin cover, styling on a $300 budget, and why Lady Gaga's Joanne changed her life while she was shredding papers in a freezing basement. We also chat about Phantom of the Opera, Rick Owens trying to shave her eyebrows for TikTok, street casting in NYC, designing mugs on the Lower East Side, and Balenciaga Speed Hunters. We hope you enjoy as much as we did recording!Lots of love!SolEpisode Tags: Born DuBois, murder mystery party NYC, viral murder mystery, fashion model podcast, i-D Magazine, Vaquera runway, Vaquera Paris Fashion Week, Rick Owens casting, Nike model, Maybelline casting, modeling audition stories, fashion industry jobs, immersive theater NYC, fashion podcast 2026, menswear podcast, Numero Berlin, ASAP Rocky, street casting NYC, modeling career advice, fashion styling tips, Ella Emhoff, Prada, Balenciaga Speed Hunters, personal shopping on a budget, Paris Fashion Week model, Lady Gaga Joanne, Pair of Kings podcast, how to throw a murder mystery party, how to become a model, creative director fashion, thrift fashion, vintage clothing NYC, fashion week behind the scenes, dinner theater New YorkSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

Episode 124 - Before sunrise on July 16, 1945, the New Mexico desert became the epicenter of a new and terrifying era. The Trinity test—the world's first nuclear explosion—changed the planet forever, without warning the tens of thousands of people living nearby. In the years that followed, families across surrounding communities began to suffer mysterious and devastating health effects. They became known as the Downwinders—ordinary people living with the consequences of an extraordinary and closely guarded secret. This episode explores Downwind, a world-premiere opera by student composers Michael Smith and Demian Galvan. After traveling to New Mexico to better understand the land and the legacy of Trinity, the composers bring these often-ignored stories to the stage. As Smith writes, “While the family in our opera is fictional, the reality that they face is not.” Together, we examine the history, the harm, and the haunting beauty of a work that asks a powerful question: what does progress cost—and who is made to pay the price? Ticket Sales Link - https://music.utexas.edu/events/5255-downwind  

Is Raf Simons finally back? Is Rick Owens still the GOAT? Did Jonathan Anderson fumble his AW27 Dior menswear show? Why does Dsquared2 keep putting giant furry hats on models—and why do we respect it?Sol and Michael break down 2026's Paris Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week with their most unfiltered runway reviews yet. Which designers are cooking? Which creative directors are washed? Find out.RUNWAY REVIEWS:Prada FW26: High button holes, dirty French cuffs, and silhouettes echoing early Raf archive (Riot Riot Riot era). A genuine return to form—dressing cool young people, not runway theater.Rick Owens "TOWER": Military fashion without cosplay. Exaggerated shoulders replace traditional epaulets. Comparisons to Concordians, Porterville, Hollywood, Temple, and Lido—this might be his best of the past 5 years.Jonathan Anderson — Dior Men's AW27: Paul Poiret references and "heritage meets subversion" press notes that don't translate.Dsquared2 FW26: Dean and Dan Caten deliver giant furry hats, Olympic ski aesthetics, and jacked models with chiseled jawlines.Ralph Lauren FW26: Is Ralph pandering to the Aime Leon Dore and Bodé crowd? Vintage Polo Sport looks feel five years late to the Lower East Side menswear revival. But the tailoring buried later—velvet tuxedos, opera loafers, herringbone Chesterfields, cutaway collars—still hits.Balenciaga FW26 (Pierpaolo Piccioli): Post-Demna disappointment. Zara-coded varsity bombers, incoherent lookbook energy.Soshio Otsuki — Pitti Uomo 2026: The Japanese designer making YSL-inspired power suits for men. Double-breasted blazers for $600, Boro stitching collabs, jumpsuit-illusion suiting.Also discussed: Demna's Gucci debut, Louis Vuitton under Pharrell, London vs. New York street style, British tailoring culture, Rolling Dub Trio and Kozaburo boots, making a horse leather Birkin, and whether Dolce & Gabbana discourse is just an easy accountability checkbox.QUESTIONS ANSWERED:→ What did Raf Simons show at Prada FW26?→ Who is the best designer of 2026?→ Who is the new Dior menswear creative director? → Is Ralph Lauren copying Aime Leon Dore? → What happened to Balenciaga after Demna? → Who is Soshio Otsuki? → What is the high button hole trend? → What are the best Paris Fashion Week FW26 collections? → London vs. New York: Who dresses better?Sol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

What does a creative director actually do at a major fashion publication? Is Chrome Hearts still worth the investment in 2026?  How did vintage Bape become the gateway drug for an entire generation of streetwear obsessives? And why is Rick Owens' FW14 Moody still influencing how we dress today?We sit down with Paul Heavener, Creative Director at Hypebeast, for a deep dive into his decade-long journey from Bape Talk forum moderator to leading one of fashion media's most influential creative teams. Paul shares stories about discovering Bape in a college dorm in 2005, his first fake hoodie, lining up outside in NYC for shark hoodies, and how internet fashion forums shaped streetwear culture before Instagram existed.Sol and Michael also chat with Paul about his obsession with Rick Owens (specifically the FW2014 Moody show, crop Stooges, and the Little Joe jacket), his complicated relationship with Chrome Hearts and their disappearing customization services, and why he now hunts for 1930s French workwear instead of hyped releases. We break down the rise of Golf as a hyped area of men's fashion and post-COVID individual sports culture, how Hypebeast balances legacy readers with Gen-Z audiences, the return of print magazines as collector's items, and why the anime-to-fashion pipeline is more real than ever.Finally, Paul reveals his favorite emerging designers (Professor E, Taiga Takahashi, Camiel Fortgens), explains how Hypebeast's creative studio actually operates, and shares his path from intern to creative director.Whether you're interested in breaking into fashion media, understanding how creative direction works at scale, hunting for archive pieces, or just want to know what the creative director of Hypebeast wears day-to-day (spoiler: Ann Demeulemeester jeans, Rick Owens long sleeves, and Chrome Hearts jewelry), this episode delivers.For extra episodes, early access to episodes, and giveaways, subscribe to our HeroHero!Episode Tags: Hypebeast interview 2026, A Bathing Ape, Nigo streetwear, Chrome Hearts jewelry, Chrome Hearts 2026, archive fashion, menswear podcast, fashion media career, creative director career, fashion editorial, streetwear trends 2026, French workwear vintage, Hype Golf, golf fashion 2026, golf streetwear, Hypebeast magazine, menswear trends 2026, Lady Machine DJ, fashion industry podcast, high fashion podcast, JoJo Bizarre Adventure fashion, Paul HSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

What's the best men's cologne in 2026? Is Orto Parisi worth the hype? What does "grassy" mean? How do you actually describe how something smells without sounding pretentious?In the 2026 Scentacular, Sol and Michael sit down with over 50 fragrance samples (thank you, ScentSplit!) to answer these questions and more to create the ultimate 2026 fragrance guide for men.  The duo dive deep into niche perfume houses like Orto Parisi, Serge Lutens, Frederic Malle, and Amouage—reviewing cult classics like Megamare, Jubilation XXV, Cowboy Grass, and Carnal Flower.They discuss why the fragrance industry is booming right now (hint: lipstick theory), how TikTok perfume influencers are changing the game, and dive deep into the trendy ingredients (like ambroxan) that give modern fragrances their smell and insane longevity. Further, Sol shares his new favorite daily wear from Story MFG's collaboration with master perfumer Joseph, and Michael finally reveals what that mysterious "plastic" note is that he's been chasing for years.We also discuss Chergui and Ombre Sultan by Serge Lutens, Osang and Reliqvia by Mendittorosa (the "Catholic guilt" church scents), Viride and Terroni by Orto Parisi, Targo by Blackbird, Milk by Commodity, Cowboy Grass by D.S. & Durga, Bois de Babylone by Welton London, Camutra by Attar Al Has, Macanudo by Maison Datto, La Fille de Berlin by Serge Lutens, and Anarchist A by Toskovat. The hosts also shout out emerging niche houses like Clue Perfumery, House of Mammoth, St Clair Scents, Pearfat Parfum, and January Scent Project. Whether you're looking for your signature scent, a date night fragrance, or just want to understand why your Sephora is suddenly packed with guys in the perfume aisle—this episode has you covered.For a chance to win $250 of ScentSplit credit, subscribe to the HeroHero!We hope you enjoy!Lots of love!SolEpisode Tagsbest men's cologne 2026, niche fragrances, Megamare, Orto Parisi, fragrance review, men's perfume guide, Serge Lutens, Amouage Jubilation XXV, D.S. & Durga Cowboy Grass, Frederic Malle Carnal Flower, cologne recommendations, niche perfume 2026, ScentSplit, scentbar, date night cologne, Mendittorosa Sang, grassy cologne, Toskovat, Blackbird Targa, lipstick theory economics, Story MFG perfume, Commodity Milk, Byredo, Attar Al Has, Another 13, compliment getter cologne, streetwear fashion, men's grooming 2026, archive fashion fragranceSol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

Discover how a former criminology major and aspiring actor transitioned from a curious subcontractor to a powerhouse executive in the tech industry. Michael Smith, Partner at Fortium Partners, shares his "business-first" philosophy on IT, explaining why technology is most powerful when it is used to create a competitive advantage rather than just being a set of widgets. He dives deep into the high-stakes world of global digital transformations and the hard-won lessons learned from "failing safe" under great mentors.Guest Links:Michael's LinkedInFortium PartnersCredits: Host: Lisa Nichols, Executive Producer: Jenny Heal, Marketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe Szynkowski, Podcast Engineer: Portside Media

Is Stone Island actually worth the price? What lifestyle requires techwear? Is Timothee Chalamet overrated? Why does Lady Gaga feel less authentic than Charli XCX? What is gooning, and how did it end up in Harper's Bazaar? This week, Sol and Michael sit down with Shane O'Neill, writer for The Washington Post's twice-weekly pop culture newsletter "Seriously?," to unpack the weirdest corners of the internet and how they intersect with fashion, music, and modern masculinity.The trio explore the techwear vs. lifestyle debate, why Stone Island might be "a little more serious" than necessary, the complicated appeal of Timothee Chalamet vs. Pedro Pascal, and whether Madonna's Celebration Tour was genius or needed a creative director. Shane defends his take on why Charli XCX feels more genuine than Lady Gaga, the overlooked brilliance of the Blue Man Group's first album, and how his job at the Washington Post lets him explore everything from competitive Excel spreadsheet championships to extremely niche fetish communities on TikTok.The conversation goes off the deep end: gooning culture and how Shane learned about it years before it hit mainstream media, why Jeremy Scott is "the Taco Bell of fashion" (complimentary), the NFL's official stylist whose college thesis connected SpongeBob SquarePants to the Arab Spring uprisings (not a joke), and why most luxury fashion houses are actually perfume or shoe companies pretending to sell clothes. They also discuss the Ice Spice SpongeBob movie premiere outfit controversy, why people pay to stand motionless at techno clubs, and Warped Tour nostalgia.Other topics include: Devoa, the Saint Laurent SS16 Surf Sound collection, ASICS x Comme des Garçons sneakers, the oura ring and Palantir data concerns, extreme fitness culture and dissociation, Russian seal best friends named Kroshik and Shlissik, and competitive Excel spreadsheet merch.We hope you enjoy!Lots of love!Sol---Episode Tags: Shane O'Neill, Washington Post Seriously, fashion podcast 2026, gooning explained, gooning Harper's Bazaar, Jeremy Scott fashion, menswear podcast, streetwear podcast, archive fashion, internet subcultures, TikTok algorithm, competitive Excel spreadsheets, niche communities, oura ring review, Ice Spice stylist, men's fashion trends 2026, Kyle Smith NFL stylist, Alexander McQueen shoes Sol Thompson and Michael Smith explore the world and subcultures of fashion, interviewing creators, personalities, and industry insiders to highlight the new vanguard of the fashion world. Subscribe for weekly uploads of the podcast, and don't forgot to follow us on our social channels for additional content, and join our discord to access what we've dubbed “the happiest place in fashion”.Message us with Business Inquiries at pairofkingspod@gmail.comSubscribe to get early access to podcasts and videos, and participate in exclusive giveaways for $4 a month Links: Instagram TikTok Twitter/X Sol's Substack (One Size Fits All) Sol's Instagram Michael's Instagram Michael's TikTok

In a climate-aware world, can venture capital truly be a force for good? Join us as we speak with Michael Smith, co-founder of Regeneration.VC, a firm dedicated to reshaping consumer value chains through the lens of environmental regeneration. While the firm is known for its strategic advisor Leonardo DiCaprio, the real stars of this show are the revolutionary businesses Michael and his team are funding. Michael reveals how Regeneration.VC applies a rigorous, nature-first approach to funding innovation: The CRISP Measurement System: Learn about the Circular Regenerative Investment Sustainability Protocol (CRISP), the firm's proprietary method for ensuring that investments actively contribute to environmental healing and, critically, "do no harm." Michael explains how this system uses strict negative screens to avoid environmentally destructive practices from the start. The Toxics Challenge: Michael details the urgent, often-overlooked threat of toxic materials in consumer products, especially in industries like apparel manufacturing, and how Regeneration.VC targets companies dedicated to eliminating these harmful chemicals from our planet and our lives. Success in Circularity: Discover compelling case studies, including an investment in a company that transforms waste from the seafood industry into a compostable, soil-enriching alternative to Styrofoam. Impact vs. Returns: Michael shares his personal journey to impact investing and provides insight into the challenges and opportunities of aligning financial goals with a desire to contribute positively to the planet. This conversation offers a deep dive into how strategic capital can move beyond mere sustainability and actively drive a regenerative future. Takeaways Investing with nature in mind is crucial for sustainability. The CRISP measurement system helps ensure no harm is done. Impact investing can yield profitable returns while doing good. Reducing waste and increasing efficiency is key to circularity. Toxics in consumer products are a growing concern. Carbon markets are evolving, but challenges remain. Voluntary carbon markets show promise for innovation. Mycelium packaging startups face scalability challenges. Optimism is growing in the nature technology sector. Innovative business models can drive positive change for the planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices