THE PLUG W/ JUSTIN JAY

ENCORE EPISODE — To celebrate the landmark performance The Strokes delivered at Coachella 2026, we're revisiting this conversation. Nikolai Fraiture — bassist and founding member of The Strokes — sits down to talk about what it actually looked like from the inside of one of the most hyped band launches in rock history, and what's happened in the two decades since. We get into the Grammy win for The New Abnormal and the making of Reality Awaits with Rick Rubin in Costa Rica — and what it took for Rubin to get a band that started in a New York basement back to playing like one. The Strokes were the first band any of them had ever been in. After 20 years, Nikolai describes a lock-in with his bandmates that he says can't be manufactured: "I wouldn't walk away from something that special that comes along so rarely." And he's candid about early fame in a way that doesn't feel performed: "I don't think I handled it very well." Reality Awaits is coming. This is where it started. YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@theplugwithjustinjay  Website → https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com  Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-plug-w-justin-jay/id1517322794 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3M3BwnadvgbuwtErUHN1pl  Email → [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode we sit down with actor, director, and New York Times bestselling author Andrew McCarthy for a candid conversation about friendship, identity, and reinvention. Best known for iconic roles in St. Elmo's Fire, Pretty In Pink, Weekend at Bernie's and some of your favorite 80's films, McCarthy has spent the last decade carving out a second act as a deeply introspective writer. His latest book, Who Needs Friends, documents a 10,000-mile solo road trip across America, where he spoke with strangers—from cowboys to cops—to explore the often unspoken realities of male friendship. The conversation dives into why men struggle with vulnerability, how friendships evolve (or fade) over time, and what happens when a life in Hollywood gives way to a quieter, more reflective creative path. McCarthy also opens up about the complicated legacy of the Brat Pack, the loneliness of the open road, and the surprising honesty he found in conversations with strangers. Our conversation with Andrew is a thoughtful look at connection in modern life—and a reminder that it's never too late to redefine who you are. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 Purchase Who Needs Friends by Andrew McCarthy https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/andrew-mccarthy/who-needs-friends/9781538768945/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/⁠⁠⁠ Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] ⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode we sit down for a chat with Posdnuos AKA Plug One, a founding member of one of the most influential and acclaimed groups in hip-hop history - De La Soul. For years, De La Soul's music was caught in a complicated web of licensing issues and corporate politics, leaving their catalog unavailable on streaming platforms and out of reach for an entire generation of listeners. Now, nearly three decades after their groundbreaking debut Three Feet High and Rising, their full body of work is finally accessible again—sparking a long-overdue rediscovery. We discuss Cabin in the Sky, the group's first release following the 2023 passing of friend and bandmate Dave Jolicoeur AKA Trugoy the Dove. Pos reflects on the group's commitment to honoring Dave's legacy while continuing forward. Pos also talks about navigating grief, the decision to carry on as De La Soul, and the defining "Beat Street moment" that reframed loss into purpose. He also reflects on the long fight to reclaim their catalog and the frustration of being absent from the streaming era. From cassette tapes and crate-digging to algorithms and viral discovery, this episode is a deep look at legacy, artistry, and staying true to the music across decades of change. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/⁠⁠ Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] ⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael "Kaves" McLeer is a Brooklyn-born painter, recording artist, graffiti artist, author, tattoo artist and creator of Brooklyn Pop - an astounding immersive experience celebrating the borough of Brooklyn. The installation features hip-hop memorabilia, graffiti, movie collectibles, historical artifacts, and personal items celebrating the neighborhood that shaped him. In this episode we discuss his path from the proverbial wrong side of the tracks in Bay Ridge, to becoming a renowned graffiti writer and founder of the rap/punk rock group Lordz of Brooklyn. We also chat about the neighborhood gangsters growing up, why free Adidas tracks suits sometimes fell from the sky above Verranzano Bridge, and how Brooklyn based movies and television like The Warriors, Saturday Night Fever and Welcome Back Kotter played a key role in developing self-identity and career goals.  Throughout his career he's designed exclusive visuals for Audemars Piguet, Jaguar, NIKE, Rockstar Games, WWE, MTV, ADIDAS, Van's Warped Tour, and created logos & graphics for world-renowned artists such as the Beastie Boys and Metallica. Kaves' energy and thirst for creative expression took him to the world of acting and filmmaking. In 2006, Kaves created, produced and directed The Brooklyn Way, a multi-episode docu-series about his family's life. From 2011 to the present day, Kaves has been featured in short and feature films including The Many Saints of Newark, Gravesend, The Humdinger, Star and The Eulogy. The Brooklyn Pop interactive installation is open to the pubic at Industry City. See link below for details. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] ⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠ ⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠https://www.hi1k.com/⁠ Brooklyn Pop ⁠https://thebrooklynpop.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Plug w/ Justin Jay is proud to announce a collaboration with Monster Children — the independent art and media platform that has been shaping taste for over two decades. I For the next several weeks, Monster Children will be presenting a curated series of encore episodes of The Plug across their website and social channels. To kick things off, we sit down with Editor-in-Chief Naz Kawakami to discuss how a scrappy Australian print title built a global audience without losing its point of view. We'll explore the tension between print and digital media, why some stories are too meaningful to be reduced to a digital scroll, and how imperfection can serve as proof that something is real. Be on the lookout for new episodes here in the weeks ahead, and revisit some of our favorite conversations — including Stacy Peralta, Arto Saari, Tom Sachs, and more — at monsterchildren.com and on Instagram at @monsterchildren and @nazkawakami Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jay Glennie is the author of The Making of Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, the film has cemented itself as one of Tarantino's most personal and meticulously constructed works—every prop, location, costume, and needle drop carefully chosen to reconstruct a disappearing version of Los Angeles. Glennie was granted rare access to document how that world came together. Drawing from more than sixty interviews with Quentin Tarantino, the cast, and key members of the crew—alongside extensive on-set photography and original production materials—the book goes far beyond a visual companion or standard oral history. It examines the creative decisions, near-misses, and practical realities behind the film: how iconic moments were shaped, which sequences almost didn't happen, and why certain choices mattered to Tarantino on a deeply personal level. For anyone interested in how great films are actually made, this episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the decisions, accidents, and creative obsessions behind this modern classic, told by the only writer granted unparalleled access to Tarantino's creative process. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Nicholson is the bassist and founding member of Arctic Monkeys. This episode he sits down for one of his most open and personal interviews yet. With the 20-year anniversary of Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not approaching, Andy reflects on the band's explosive early years and the moments that shaped modern indie rock. Andy shares the story behind his brand-new photography book, I Bet This Looks Good on Your Coffee Table, featuring rare and intimate behind-the-scenes photos from 2005–2007. From tiny Sheffield gigs to global fame, Andy captured the raw reality of life inside a band becoming a worldwide phenomenon. In this episode: • How Arctic Monkeys handled sudden fame • What life backstage and on tour really looked like • The creative chemistry behind the first album • Andy's personal journey after leaving the band • Why revisiting hundreds of old photos changed his perspective • Meeting The Strokes, playing SNL, and surreal early-days stories • The emotional process of releasing his photos to the world Whether you're an Arctic Monkeys fan, a music-photography lover, or someone who lived through the 2000s indie rock era, this conversation offers rare insight from someone who was there for it all. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Academy Award-winning director Kevin Macdonald sits down to discuss his groundbreaking documentary One to One, a film that redefines how we understand John Lennon and Yoko Ono in early 1970s New York. Using archival footage—from TV shows, protests, commercials, news footage, and intimate home recordings Macdonald creates a fully immersive, 360-degree view of their lives, activism, and art. From John Lennon's one and only post-Beatles concert at Madison Square Garden, to Yoko Ono's conceptual artistry and personal struggles, this conversation dives deep into the film's meticulous reconstruction, the creative process behind its storytelling, and the political and cultural context of the era. Discover how One to One blends history, humanity, and artistry to reveal John and Yoko like never before. Perfect for Beatles fans, documentary enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of culture, activism, and art. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 00:00 – Teaser: Three Blind Men & an Elephant 00:31 – Host Intro: Setting Up the Conversation 02:02 – Introducing Kevin Macdonald 03:10 – Origins of One to One 06:12 – Building Trust With Participants 09:45 – The Intimacy of the Film's Format 13:20 – Navigating Ethics & Responsibility 17:05 – Crafting Narrative From Raw Lives 21:18 – The Role of Empathy in Documentary Filmmaking 24:56 – Creative Choices Behind the Camera 28:40 – What Kevin Learned From the Project 32:10 – Reflections on Human Connection 35:28 – Closing Thoughts & What's Next Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Mittleman worked as VP of Design and Creative Director at Stussy. In this episode, he shares stories from decades shaping the DNA of modern street culture. From working directly with Shawn Stussy to influencing brands like Supreme, Adidas, and Converse, Paul reflects on authenticity, creativity, and the evolution of streetwear. He explains why early Stussy and Supreme succeeded where others failed, and why the term "streetwear" misses the point entirely. Paul also dives into collab culture, subcultures in New York and Tokyo, and how Instagram reshaped personal expression. It's a rare behind-the-scenes look at the people and philosophies that built modern street style. 00:00 – Intro: Paul Mittleman on shaping modern street culture 02:30 – Connecting Shawn Stussy to New York's creative scene 06:15 – The rise of Supreme and its Stussy influence 08:40 – Why Stussy and Supreme stayed authentic 11:00 – The power of saying "no" in creative work 14:00 – When collabs lost their meaning 17:00 – "Future landfill": the dark side of drop culture 20:30 – Streetwear vs. street culture 23:00 – Can real subcultures still exist today? 29:30 – From downtown discovery to the algorithm era 39:00 – Instagram, identity, and authenticity 46:30 – Choosing integrity over corporate success 48:50 – Paul's recommendation: Subculture by Dick Hebdige Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zosia Mamet is an author and actress known for her breakout role as Shoshanna on HBO's Girls. In this episode, she joins us to discuss her raw, funny, and deeply personal new book, Does This Make Me Funny? In this candid conversation, Zosia opens up about anxiety, self-worth, family legacy, and the constant challenge of defining herself outside of fame. She shares the emotional rollercoaster of turning her private journal entries into a published book — what it feels like to expose your inner world to strangers — and the strange comfort that comes from owning your story before anyone else can. From nepo baby labels to the internet's obsession with lineage, Zosia talks about navigating public judgment with humor and grace, and what it's really like to grow up as the daughter of legendary playwright David Mamet. She explains why compassion matters more than defensiveness, and how empathy became her quiet rebellion against cynicism. Zosia also reflects on her years playing Shoshanna — the character that made her a pop culture icon — and why she still feels connected to her. She opens up about the bittersweet nature of creative success, the beauty of radical honesty in relationships, and how her husband's blunt truth-telling helped her redefine love and emotional safety. Funny, heartfelt, and disarmingly honest, this episode is a deep dive into vulnerability, artistic growth, and what it means to stay authentic in a world built on performance. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 00:00 - Girls opened doors and the Shoshana effect 00:24 - Intro: Justin Jay and The Plug 00:55 - Iconic roles: the blessing and curse of being typecast 01:50 - Tackling anxiety, body image, and self-worth 02:20 - Guest introduction: Zosia Mamet, author and actress 02:53 - Book release nerves and the "anxiety flea" 04:20 - Acting vs. writing: How creative paths challenge us differently 07:16 - Sharing personal stories while protecting identities 11:32 - Handling internet trolls with compassion 13:16 - Growing up Mamet: privilege, pressure, and the NEPO label 28:24 - Breakout role reflections: Girls, improv, and industry lessons 42:00 - Closing plug: Zosia Mamet's book Does This Make Me Funny? Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside the mind of legendary writer and director Larry Charles, best known for Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and for directing films like Borat, Bruno, and The Dictator. In this episode of The Plug w/ Justin Jay, Larry shares raw, unfiltered stories about Hollywood, comedy, and the creative process. From working alongside Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld to directing groundbreaking films with Sacha Baron Cohen, Larry reflects on risk-taking, failure, and why comedy still matters in a divided world. If you're curious about the behind-the-scenes of classic TV, the challenges of making bold, politically charged films, or the evolving role of comedy in culture, this conversation is essential listening. Check out video clips of this episode and other conversations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNH5UGRKI5E1AUBWAk-OkrA?sub_confirmation=1 00:00 – Larry Charles joins The Plug 03:15 – Breaking into comedy writing 07:40 – Behind the scenes of Seinfeld 12:20 – Risk and innovation in comedy 16:45 – Curb Your Enthusiasm and improv freedom 21:30 – Directing Borat and its impact 27:10 – Working with Sacha Baron Cohen 32:00 – Hollywood vs independent voices 37:50 – Comedy as social commentary 42:30 – Lessons from failure 48:15 – The future of comedy 53:00 – Closing thoughts & takeaways Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Ronson is one of the most influential music producers of the past two decades. Starting out as one of New York's most in-demand DJs in the 1990s, he went on to produce for Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Adele, Dua Lipa, Jay-Z, Paul McCartney, and more. He also co-wrote Bruno Mars' "Uptown Funk"—one of the defining hits of the 21st century, and most recently curated The Barbie soundtrack. In his new book Night People, Ronson reflects on the unpredictable rhythm of his career—from early acclaim as downtown New York's "It DJ" to post-hype setbacks and creative reinvention. The book also serves as a love letter to a city that no longer exists: a grittier, unpolished New York during hip-hop's golden age. In this episode, we dive into the unwritten rules of DJing, why you should never play a hit to an empty room, and the thrill of turning a skeptical crowd into a sweaty, euphoric mess. Ronson reflects on the rise of bottle service, Giuliani-era crackdowns, and how NYC nightlife shifted from chaotic melting pot to velvet-rope exclusivity. Don't miss this candid, wide-ranging conversation with a man who has shaped the sound of modern music—both from behind the decks and inside the studio. Subscribe and watch full the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hETfegCOi5U Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ione Skye is an actress best known for her standout performances in the classic films Say Anything, River's Edge, Gas Food Lodging, and many others. But behind her breakout success was a far more complicated coming-of-age story — shaped by a turbulent teenage relationship with an older man battling addiction, estrangement from her famous musician father, and periods of self-destructive behavior. In her new memoir Say Everything, she pulls back the curtain — recounting everything from her on-screen crush on Keanu Reeves, to raw, revealing stories involving cultural icons like Madonna, River Phoenix, Matthew Perry, and Gwyneth Paltrow. So what was it really like growing up as the daughter of '60s pop legend Donovan, the wife of a Beastie Boy, and the romantic lead in some of the most beloved films of the '80s and '90s? In this episode, we sit down with Ione for a conversation about her immersion in the creative chaos and cultural energy of the late 20th century — from dating Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis to her marriage to Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Devendra Banhart is a prolific artist and musician who has earned a reputation for his genre-defying sound. Drawing from an incredibly diverse range of influences, he's released 11 studio albums and cultivated a loyal fanbase spanning from Santiago to Silverlake. In this episode we sit down for a chat with this Texas-born, Venezuela-raised, and San Francisco educated singer about psilocybin mushroom trips, sneaking backstage at a Guns and Roses show in South America as a teenager, and how skateboarding videos from the 80's influenced his musical tastes. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Selema Masekela is a uniquely versatile sports commentator whose career spans everything from surfing and skateboarding to the NBA, soccer, and Formula One. As a teenager growing up in a predominantly white beach town in Southern California, he was one of the few Black surfers in the water. That meant navigating everything from subtle bias to outright racism. While he refused to let that stop him from pursuing the sport he loved, the absence of others who looked like him left a lasting impression. In this episode, we discuss his essay in the new book Surfer Stories, where he reflects on South African surfer Mikey February's historic qualification for the professional tour. For Selema, the moment wasn't just significant—it was deeply personal. His father, legendary jazz musician Hugh Masekela, was exiled from South Africa during apartheid. So seeing a Black South African competing on surfing's biggest stage brought decades of struggle and resilience full circle. We also discuss how someone goes from the surf break to the broadcast booth to build one of the most diverse résumés in sports media, and why curiosity has been one of his greatest strengths. Selema also shares some of his biggest on-air blunders—and what they taught him. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com ⁠⁠https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://justinjay.com/⁠⁠ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: ⁠⁠https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few names in surfing carry the weight and reverence of Gerry Lopez. Known for his effortless style and grace at the Banzai Pipeline, Lopez redefined what it meant to surf one of the world's most dangerous waves—with poise and poetry. He's a two-time Pipe Masters winner, but his legacy doesn't end in the barrel. In this episode, we sit down with the man they call Mr. Pipeline to talk about his unique dual role in the newly released book Surfer Stories—as both a subject and a storyteller. Alongside guest Claudia Lebenthal, the book's editor and creative force, they reflect on Gerry's enduring influence and the intimate portrait he paints in his essay on fellow legend Garrett McNamara. Lopez also shares what five decades of yoga have taught him about flow—on waves and in life—and how staying grounded, along with his mantra of "keep paddling," has helped him navigate challenges far beyond the lineup. And finally, we dig into the decision that raised eyebrows in surf circles: Gerry's partnership with Costco to release an affordable line of signature Wavestorm soft-top surfboards. Don't miss this conversation with one of the most respected and compelling figures in the history of surfing. You can find Surfer Stories, edited by Claudia Lebenthal, wherever you get your books. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kai Lenny is a professional big-wave surfer and one of the most respected watermen on the planet. He's mastered stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and foiling—pushing the limits of what's possible on waves of consequence. Over the course of his career, he's won the SUP Race World Championship, the KSP Kiting World Championship, the Sunset Beach SUP Pro, and the Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge. After the devastating fires in Maui in 2023, he founded the Positively Kai Foundation to help assist residents affected by the fires. So how did he strike up a friendship with one of the richest and most polarizing tech figures in the world? And what aspect of Mark Zuckerberg surprised him the most? We'll find out as we sit down for a chat with one of the most esteemed and multi-talented athletes in the world of extreme sports. His list of sponsors includes:  Red Bull, Nike, Hurley, GoPro, and TAG Heuer. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: theplugpodcast.jj(AT)gmail.com https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Bowen Smith is one of Hollywood's most sought after celebrity photographers. His work can be seen on billboards, books, movie posters and magazines. Brian has a keen understanding that shooting pictures of high-profile subjects requires more than just technical proficiency with lighting and composition. There's a psychological skill involved in being able to read the room, navigate egos, and capture a compelling picture despite the sometimes unpredictable emotional state of his subjects. Through years of experience, he's mastered the ability to meet each celebrity where they are, and adapt to their energy in order to get the perfect shot. It's a delicate balancing act that involves equal parts artistry, problem-solving, diplomacy and psychological intelligence.  So why was Madonna's offer to have him shoot her new album cover rescinded? How did he get Warren Beatty's cell phone number after shedding a tear? We'll find out as we sit down for a chat with a guy behind the lens who has no shortage of LA stories.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randall Poster is a highly sought-after music supervisor for film and television who has worked closely with legendary directors like Wes Anderson, Richard Linklater, Martin Scorsese, and countless others. He's helped craft some of Hollywood's most iconic soundtracks, including Rushmore, The Wolf of Wall Street, Boyhood, and over 100 feature films. His knack for utilizing timeless classics and for finding the perfect deep cut to enhance storytelling has made him one of the most celebrated and sought-after supervisors in film and television. So, why does he believe that the Beatles are kryptonite for a movie's music? What does it take to actually license Led Zeppelin for a soundtrack? We'll find out as we sit down for a conversation with the Grammy Award winning music supervisor who's responsible for curating some of the most unforgettable musical moments of the past two decades. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stacy Peralta is a true pioneer of skateboarding. In the mid 1970s, journalist and artist Craig Stecyk began chronicling of a group of young rebellious skaters from the streets of Venice and Santa Monica. Blending surfing's fluid style with aggressive innovation, Stacy Peralta and a handful of other skateboarders would become known as the Z-Boys—a name that would leave an indelible mark on skate history. After a successful career as a pro skater, he co-founded Powell Peralta Skateboards—one of the most iconic skate brands of all time. He later directed several acclaimed documentaries, including Dogtown and Z-Boys, Riding Giants, and Bones Brigade: An Autobiography, cementing his legacy as one of the sport's most influential figures. Recently, he began a new chapter as a fine art painter, drawing inspiration from the objects that shaped his life. His still-life paintings capture vintage decaying skateboards, worn-down trucks, clay wheels, and other skate artifacts—items that many people might consider junk. But to him, they hold a deeper meaning and significance. Just as the Z-Boys had the vision to transform abandoned pools and cracked asphalt into skate-able terrain, he's once again found beauty and value in what others discard. Don't miss this conversation with Skateboard Hall of Fame member and true icon of skate culture.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ The Plug Logo and Branding by Italic Studio: https://italic-studio.com/studio/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael "Kaves" McLeer is a Brooklyn-born painter, recording artist, graffiti artist, author, tattoo artist and creator of Brooklyn Pop - an astounding immersive experience celebrating the borough of Brooklyn. The exhibit is an astounding collection featuring hip-hop memorabilia, graffiti, movie collectibles, historical artifacts, and personal items celebrating the neighborhood that shaped him. In this episode we discuss his path from the proverbial wrong side of the tracks in Bay Ridge, to becoming a renowned graffiti writer and founder of the rap/punk rock group Lordz of Brooklyn. We also chat about the neighborhood gangsters growing up, why free Adidas tracks suits sometimes fell from the sky above Verranzano Bridge, and how Brooklyn based movies and television like The Warriors, Saturday Night Fever and Welcome Back Kotter played a key role in developing self-identity and career goals.  Throughout his career he's designed exclusive visuals for Audemars Piguet, Jaguar, NIKE, Rockstar Games, WWE, MTV, ADIDAS, Van's Warped Tour, and created logos & graphics for world-renowned artists such as the Beastie Boys and Metallica. Kaves' energy and thirst for creative expression took him to the world of acting and filmmaking. In 2006, Kaves created, produced and directed The Brooklyn Way, a multi-episode docu-series about his family's life. From 2011 to the present day, Kaves has been featured in short and feature films including The Many Saints of Newark, Gravesend, The Humdinger, Star and The Eulogy. The Brooklyn Pop interactive installation is open to the pubic at Industry City. See link below for details. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Brooklyn Pop https://thebrooklynpop.com/ The Plug Logo and Branding by Italic Studio: https://italic-studio.com/studio/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Carter is one half of the musical duo Phantogram. Alongside his partner Sarah Barthel, they've released 5 LPs and collaborated with some of the most acclaimed names in the music industry from Big Boi to The Flaming Lips. Phantogram's music blends a foundation of heavy beats with atmospheric, genre-defying elements inspired by artists ranging from Sparklehorse to Sonic Youth to David Bowie. The result is a unique fusion of electronic textures and rich, introspective melodies. Their latest album, Memory of a Day is available now.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ The Plug Logo and Branding by Italic Studio: https://italic-studio.com/studio/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cey Adams is a New York City-based painter, designer, and the founding Creative Director of Def Jam Recordings. Emerging from the downtown graffiti scene alongside iconic artists Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, Adams began his career tagging subway cars and creating graffiti murals. Immersed in the vibrant art and music culture of the era, he connected with The Beastie Boys, collaborating with them to design their first logo, t-shirts, and singles. Around the same time, he began working with music producer Russell Simmons at RUSH Artist Management, where he created logos and merchandise for their roster of artists. This led to his tenure with Simmons and Rick Rubin at Def Jam, where Adams designed some of the most iconic album covers of hip-hop's golden era, including works for Public Enemy, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Slick Rick, and many others. As a highly respected designer and painter, Adams has collaborated with global brands such as Levi's, Mattel, The Recording Academy, Apple, Bacardi, IDEO, Foot Locker, Converse, YouTube, and Google. In 2019, Pabst Brewing Company commissioned Adams to reimagine their iconic Pabst Blue Ribbon logo, resulting in a design featured on 150 million cans distributed nationwide. In this episode, we delve into the dynamics of collaborating with marketing departments, artists, and photographers during his time at Def Jam. Adams shares his perspective on why he considers The Beastie Boys one of the most influential, creative, and self-driven groups of their era. We also explore the power of branding, the significance of logos, and the tension between art and commerce when a downtown DIY ethos collides with corporate culture. Tune in for a conversation with this trailblazing artist who helped shape the visual identity of hip-hop. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ The Plug Logo and Branding by Italic Studio: https://italic-studio.com/studio/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arto Saari is a Finnish professional skateboarder and photographer. He is one of only two Europeans to ever win Thrasher Magazine's prestigious Skater of the Year award, and he's one of the most respected and influential skaters of his generation. Arto built his legacy through groundbreaking video parts and endured numerous brutal injuries along the way. Eventually, he transitioned from professional skating to pursue his passion for photography. His recently released book, Bike Path, intimately captures the vibrant culture and community of Hawaii's North Shore. In this episode, we dive into the contrasts between skateboarding and surfing culture, we dig into the complex interplay of pain, injury, substance abuse, and addictive personalities in skateboarding, and we discuss the challenging path many pro skaters face as they navigate life beyond their skating careers Bike Path by Arto Saari: https://www.artosaari.com/bikepath-book HI 1K - 10 Years / 1000 Moments On Hawaii's North Shore by Justin Jay: https://www.hi1k.com/ Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Luxxury is a music producer and the co-host of the richly informative One Song podcast. Each week they take a deep dive into a single classic song, and explore the inspirations and specific production techniques that make the track unique. By playing rare, isolated vocal and instrumental stems, they give listeners the chance to rediscover familiar songs, revealing details and textures often hidden in the full mix. So what is the difference between sampling, interpolation, and outright plagiarism? Why is the Jamaican concept of copyright, creatively and the ownership of music almost completely opposite of the way we think of it in the US?  Why is it now legally risky to use the overall vibe and arrangements of a Marvin Gaye track as inspiration for your own song? We'll find out as we sit down for a chat with someone who blends technology with his passion for music history to shed new light on your favorite songs.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected]. https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nikolai Fraiture is the bassist for the New York based rock band The Strokes. In 2001, the band went from playing small clubs on the Lower East Side to becoming one of the most hyped and talked about bands in the industry. After 6 albums and over 20 years together, this massively influential band continues to create innovative and unique music. In 2021 their album The New Abnormal won Best Rock Album and earned the band their first Grammy. In this episode we discuss how Nikolai managed to stay humble and keep a healthy perspective after The Strokes experienced a sudden rise to fame almost overnight. We also hear some behind the scene stories about recording albums in Malibu and Costa Rica with acclaimed producer Rick Rubin. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Moon Unit Zappa is the daughter of legendary musician Frank Zappa and the author of a new autobiography. In her book, Earth to Moon, she reflects on her unconventional upbringing, and she shares a candid account of what it was like growing up in Los Angeles with a rock star father. At just 14 years old, she approached her father with the idea to collaborate on a song—not in pursuit of fame or a music career, but as a way to spend more time with him. That song, Valley Girl, became an unexpected smash hit, and her life changed almost overnight. In this episode, we dive into Moon's profound respect and pride for her father's musical legacy, while also addressing the lingering resentment she feels over a childhood marked by manipulation, deceit, and disappointment. We'll also uncover some captivating celebrity stories from her book and explore how sudden fame can affect a teenager. Tune in for a conversation with this multi-talented author, actress, entrepreneur, and the artist who left a lasting mark on pop culture with her iconic slang from the song Valley Girl. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MGMT are the musical duo of Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, known for creating irresistibly catchy, genre-blurring music. Since their time as art students in the early 2000s, they've released five studio albums, garnered critical acclaim, and cultivated a devoted fan base. Their newest album Loss of Life is available now. In this episode, we dive into how they continually push the boundaries of pop and indie music while still maintaining their unmistakable sound. We also discuss the politics of performing at Madison Square Garden, their unexpected rise to TikTok fame, and how their views on drugs have evolved since their debut album. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with the artists behind the hits 'Kids' and 'Little Dark Age Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email The Plug w/ Justin Jay at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

T.J. Miller is a standup comedian and actor who has appeared on Silicon Valley, Deadpool, Transformers, and numerous comedy specials. Although he's had a taste of Hollywood success, lately he's chosen a different path. Rather than chasing acting roles on the west coast, he's made the conscious choice to live in New York City and continue to tirelessly refine his skills as a Manhattan standup comic. This week we sit down to discuss why being a respected comic is more important to him than being recognized as a great actor. We'll also find out what being a philosophy major taught him about comedy and what happens when you spill a drink on someone at a party wearing a gold-sequined tuxedo. Don't miss this special episode recorded live at Newsstand Studios in Rockefeller Center. *This episode was recorded prior to the WGA and SAG strikes. The Plug w/ Justin Jay wholeheartedly supports the efforts of actors and writers and stands in solidarity with its union members. To learn more please see the links below.. https://www.sagaftrastrike.org/ https://www.wgacontract2023.org/strike-hub Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lisa Andersen is a Surfing Hall of Fame inductee and a 4 time consecutive world champion. As a teenager, she left behind a troubled home life in Florida to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional surfer. By 25, she was ranked the best female surfer on the planet. With her aggressive yet elegant style, she helped transform the entire perception of female competitive surfing. This episode we sit down to discuss the emotional challenges of being the subject of a documentary film about your life, we hear some hilarious behind the scenes stories from her years on tour, and we learn how opening the door for an entire generation of female surfers didn't necessary translate to massive economic success. Tune in for a compelling story of perseverance and determination from this true icon of the sport. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Ament plays bass in Pearl Jam and is a founding member of the band. He's also been an avid skateboarding since he was a teenager. He's self-financed the construction of over 27 skate parks across his home state of Montana. It's a source of immense gratification for him, and he often visits these parks in person to sweep the concrete, skate with the kids, and witness firsthand the impact that he's made. This week we sit down to chat about his new band Deaf Charlie, his experience traveling with Pearl Jam vs a side project, and why he's going on a 1200 mile skateboarding mission with kids that he met at one of his skateparks. Plus, find out who Jeff gives his Plug of The Week to. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Mannion is a music and portrait photographer who has shot an astounding 300 album covers. He's worked with virtually every prominent name in hip-hop from Jay Z to DMX, Eminem to Nas. His portrait of DMX dripping in crimson blood stands as one of the most iconic images ever taken of the late rapper. In this episode we discuss how to keep the momentum of a successful photography career going when magazines are approaching extinction, and the demand for album packaging has basically been reduced to a thumbnail on a music streaming app. We also discuss his time assisting for Richard Avedon, and hear some on-set stories from his shoots with Gucci Mane, Nipsey Hussle, Mos Def, and many more. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dante Ross is a music producer and pioneering hip-hop A&R executive. During his time at Tommy Boy and Elektra Records he played a pivotal role in the success of acts such as De La Soul, Brand Nubian, Busta Rhymes, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, MF Doom, Everlast, and Old Dirty Bastard. In his new autobiography titled "Son of The City," he recounts with vivid detail his formative years growing up on Manhattan's Lower East Side and his involvement with the vibrant subcultures of skateboarding, punk rock, and hip-hop. Tune in for a captivating conversation with one of the most enduring and influential figures from the golden age of hip-hop. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dick Cavett is a trailblazing tv host who played a defining role in shaping the talk format during the late 1960s. His show eventually became the favored place for legends like Ali, Lennon, Brando and Hendrix to a sit down for a compelling long-form conversation rarely seen on television today. This week we sit down to find out how a humble small town boy from Nebraska went from a comedy writer to Groucho Marx and Jerry Lewis to become an icon of television and one of the most revered talk show hosts of all time. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Devendra Banhart is a prolific artist and musician who has earned a reputation for his genre-defying sound. Drawing from an incredibly diverse range of influences, he's released 10 studio albums and cultivated a loyal fanbase spanning from Santiago to Silverlake. In this episode we sit down for a chat with this Texas-born, Venezuela-raised, and San Francisco educated singer about psilocybin mushroom trips, sneaking backstage at a Guns and Roses show in South America as a teenager, and how skateboarding videos from the 80's influenced his musical tastes. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Perez-Shadi directed the iconic music videos for House of Pain's "Jump Around", The Beastie Boys' "Gratitude", and he's collaborated with streetwear brands like Supreme, Stussy, and Billionaire Boys Club. For over three decades, David has been a prominent figure in downtown New York, documenting hip-hop, skateboarding, and graffiti for over three decades. In this episode, we'll dive into David's journey from a shy bike messenger from the Bronx to becoming the go-to photographer for some of the coolest brands and artists in the game. We'll also hear some fascinating behind-the-scenes tales from his most chaotic shoots and learn what happened when the RZA went missing during a big budget video.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tinker Hatfield is widely considered to be one of the most influential sneaker designers of all time. During his time at Nike, he's collaborated with legendary athletes like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant to create some of the most iconic and beloved sneakers of all time, from the Air Jordan to the Air Max. He is quite literally the Michael Jordan of Jordans. In this episode, we chat with Tinker about how design, performance, cutting-edge materials and marketing have helped create an entire subculture where sneakers are commodities sold for thousands of dollars. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nathan Florence is a big-wave charger from the North Shore and brother to 2X world champion surfer John John Florence. In the past few years, Nathan has made a name for himself by tackling some of the biggest and most consequential waves on the planet. But it's not just his surfing that's earned him a following. He's also known for his compelling social media content, providing fans with an inside look at his life as a pro surfer and adventure-seeker. Join us as we chat with Nathan about what lessons he's learned from his brother, some skills he's acquired to survive a wipeout at Pipeline, and why we might have reached a tipping point of chaos in the lineups on the North Shore. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roy Wood Jr. is a multi-talented comedian who's not afraid to tackle sensitive issues relating to race or social class. He's appeared on The Daily Show, hosted the prestigious White House Correspondents dinner, and has garnered critical acclaim for his numerous standup specials. His Comedy Central special Imperfect Messenger is masterclass on how how comedy can be a tool not just to entertain but to unify and inspire conversation. In this episode we discuss the perils of critiquing the black community, why he refused to pull punches while doing comedy in front of President Biden, and how Jack Bauer from the tv show 24 relates to being in the entertainment business. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny Clinch is one of the most sought after music photographers in the business. He's shot iconic photos of music royalty from Tupac to Springsteen to Johnny Cash. This episode we discuss what it takes to get consistently compelling photos out of extremely famous people. We also hear what Willie Nelson and Merl Haggard do on the back of their tour bus, and what happens when you shoot at San Quentin prison and leave a $2000 lens behind. Don't miss this candid conversation with the man behind some of your favorite rock photos. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pat O'Connell starred in the classic surf film Endless Summer 2 and competed on the world tour. He eventually transitioned into executive leadership positions at Hurley, the World Surf League, and he is currently president of John John Florence's brand Florence Marine X. Needless to say, Pat has a unique perspective on the culture and the business of surfing. In this episode, we discuss some of the challenges of building a successful brand, hear how the North Shore has changed, and learn why competitive surfing will never be the new golf. Don't miss a candid conversation with this industry insider and Momentum Generation alum. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Damon Way is a designer, brand marketer, and the co-founder of DC Shoes. With the help of his brother, pioneering skateboarder Danny Way, DC become one of the most sought after skate brands of the 90's. Under Way's guidance, DC was one of the first streetwear brands to successfully implement artist collaborations and limited edition releases into their product line. In 2004, DC was sold to Quiksilver and the brand slowly lost much of its luster without his creative control. In this episode, we sit down to discuss whether skateboarders or surfers have better style, why the music that we listen to no longer defines our identities, and why Toyota Prius headlights are so damn ugly.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Shiflett plays guitar in the Foo Fighters and hosts the podcast Walking The Floor. This episode, we sit down for our second in-depth conversation with the Santa Barbara native. It's been a year of extreme highs and lows for him - he got inducted into the Rock and Roll of Hall of Fame, but also had to endure the tragic death of close friend and bandmate Taylor Hawkins. We discuss the differences between flying a private jet to play sold out stadiums vs the smaller intimate shows that he's been playing to promote his upcoming solo album. Don't miss checking out some behind the scenes stories from this rock veteran on this special episode with our first repeat-guest on The Plug Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Corporan was the manager for original Supreme store in NYC from 1996-2004. This episode, we sit down for some behind the scenes stories about what actually went down in the legendary back-room of the store as we go for a deep dive on the history of the brand. We also discuss his close relationship with the late great Jake Burton, and hear about Alex's recently released 10 year anniversary edition of his ode to NY skateboarding, FULL BLEED. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MC Serch made his mark in the rap duo 3rd Bass with classic hits such as The Gas Face, Brooklyn Queens, and Pop Goes The Weasel. In 1994, he executive produced the iconic debut album Illmatic by Nas. Since then, he has continued to be a major force behind the scenes in the music industry. Listen in as we hear about his insane encounters as a young battle rapper in Far Rockaway, Queens, his first experience traveling to LA while having a hit put on his life by MC Hammer, and how his continued emphasis on learning, personal growth and surrounding himself with positive people has affected his entrepreneurial success. Don't miss this season 4 premiere episode with one of the most enduring figures in hip-hop. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan McGinness is a critically acclaimed artist with works in the permanent collection of the MOMA. He uses icons, logos and public symbols to explore the power and influence they have on our visual language. Tune in as we discuss how he once destroyed his studio with pigmented fish oil for a conceptual party, and how he got 50 naked people to show up his studio to have their bodies covered in neon paint.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Fathers Day episode - Jasper Jay is a bright and inquisitive 1st grader with an extremely mature grasp of language, and a deep appreciation for humor. He's been forced to endure a lot over the past few years, but throughout the disruptions of a global pandemic, persistent mask wearing, active shooter drills and the death of a grandparent, he's remained optimistic and compassionate. It's the only reality that he's ever known, and he's ok with it. This week we sit down for a special Father's Day conversation and peer into the mind of this wildly imaginative 6 years old. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trevor "Trouble" Andrew is a professional snowboarder, musician and the artist behind the wildly successful Gucci Ghost motif. This episode we discuss how Trevor appropriated the logo from one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world, and instead of receiving a cease and desist order, he was instead offered an official collaboration with Gucci. We also get deep on NFTs, the punk-rock DIY spirit, and his family life. Don't miss the fascinating story from this must-talented creative juggernaut.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Jones is the director of the critically acclaimed documentary Until The Wheels Fall Off about the life of legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk... But his path to success as an accomplished still photographer and film director took many divergent turns along the way. This episode we sit down to discuss what makes a compelling documentary, we hear some tricks for dealing with celebrity egos, and we learn how Sam's passion for music, motorcycles and skateboarding led him to where he is today.  Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leo Fitzpatrick is a New York City based actor and gallery owner. in 1995 he starred in the movie KIDS with an ensemble cast of first-time actors from the downtown skate scene. The explicit sex and drug use in the film was over the top, but it felt eerily verite and disturbing. The fallout from his role in the movie was harsh. Since then, he's appeared in many TV and film roles, but lately he's been focusing his energy on his passion for fine art. During the height of the pandemic, he opened Public Access Gallery on the Lower East Side. His intention was to create an art space that could foster the sense of community reminiscent of the extended family of skaters that he found as a teenager. This week on The Plug, we sit down to discuss the impact that KIDS had on him, and learn why you should never be intimidated to walk into high-end gallery. Tune in to this special episode for some bonafide 90's New York tales. Have any comments, feedback or suggestions for upcoming guests? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at: [email protected] https://www.theplugwithjustinjay.com/ https://justinjay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices