Sneaks, Rhymes and Life: Recent Episodes
Lionel K. McDonald Jr.
This podcast is hosted by your truly, Lionel K. McDonald Jr and I will discuss Sneakers, Rhymes and Life. Hip Hop, Sneakers and Life (family, sports, pop culture etc) make me who I am. I will share guests, opinions and hopefully we can learn together.
In this episode, I discuss some potential ideas Nike could try to reclaim market share including revising the highly celebrated Countdown packs from 2008.
In this episode, share many of the hip hop album anniversaries at the beginning of July. I also highlight the War Report and career of N.O.R.E.
In this episode, I give you a recap of the Kendrick's Juneteenth Pop Out Concert from music to sneakers to the cultural relevance of the show.
In this episode, we talk the recent energy that the Nike DT Max 96 brought to the sneaker community, the history of Deion Sanders and the Diamond Turf series and my once in a lifetime meeting with coach Prime. Some exciting for those sports fans and those that collected sneakers in the 90s.
In this episode, with all of the hype around the Lightning 17, we will discuss the history of the Jordan 17 and what is to come later this year. Also Resale store PLUS, has announced they are closing locations. DT Max 96 is on the way!
In this episode, we will discuss the two new projects on the horizon. The first is one we got wind of during the fall of 2023 where Common announced he is working with Pete Rock on an upcoming project . The first single is called Wise Up. Secondly, on the 30th anniversary of Illmatic in April, Nas and DJ Premier have a new track Define My Name and apparently an album on the way! Shout out to Jeru's Sun Rises in the East who also had its 30th anniversary last week.
Jordan Brand has some great releases coming up this summer and in this episode, I will take you through some of the highlights for Summer 2024.
I told y'all! Rap is a competitive sport in the last episode. Now that the dust has settled somewhat between Kendrick and Drake, is there really a winner to all of this? In this episode, I talk about each track and but really what is next for both of them and hip hop.
In this episode, with J. Cole's new release Might Delete Later, I talk about the beef between J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
In this episode, I connect with Thomas Wade West and we sit down and talk everything Hip Hop and Sneakers. One of the best conversations ever on the pod. Check it out!
We made it!!! 150 episodes of Sneaks, Rhymes and Life. Thank you to all of the listeners and guest over the last 3 years. Karen joins me as we revisit some of the best moments over the 150 episodes. We also dive into the main topic - the state of the sneaker market.
Episode 149! Next one is the big 150. In this episode, we chat about everything rap music and hip hop culture. From the Grammys to who is going into the rock and roll hall of fame to upcoming music and concerts - we touch a lot of topics. Check it out and enjoy.
In this episode, I share some quick All Star game Saturday night thoughts but the big topic is the Jordan 4 reimagined release on Saturday February 17th (Michael Jordan's bday). I compare it to the OG Black Cement 4 and some of the previous reimaged sneakers that have been released prior.
In this episode, I will discuss Billboard's recent list of their top 25 All time Rap Producers. I am not thrilled with their list so I share my reactions plus give you my top 25 producers.
In this deluxe and final episode 2023, I conclude and list the remaining 5 albums that make the best and my favourite albums from 1993. Amazing to believe that it has been 30 years since these albums released.
Jan 21 and Over Alkaholiks
Feb Enta Da Stage - Black Moon
Mar Buhloone Mind state - De aka Soul
April No Pressure - Erick Sermon
May ‘93 tip Infinity - Souls of Mischief
June Return of the Boom Bap - KRS-One
July Doggy Style - Snoop Doggy DoggHappy New Years!
In this episode, I will take you through some of the hottest sneakers and trends from the year that was in 2023.
Happy Halloween everyone. Check out this new episode just for Halloween where take you through some of my favourite Halloween-themed sneakers over my sneaker journey.
Welcome to Season 4 of Sneaks, Rhymes and Life! I share in this episode what I have been up to some of the latest sneaker trends and Hip Hop shows that have happened lately in the city of Toronto.
In this episode, I break down Billboard's controversial top 50 rap group list and share what my thoughts on what the list should look like. Its no easy task.
In this episode, we reach number 7 of 12 of the top 12 albums of 1993. We are running though these albums as they hit 30 years old. We dive into the hip hop classic Doggystyle by Snoop Dogg and cultural impact that this album made. Its impact and influence is still being felt today.
In this episode, Karen rejoins the podcast to discuss the recent release of the Jordan 1 UNC Toe - arguably the most hyped release so far in summer 2023. We put the UNC Toe up against other UNC Jordan 1s and compare. We get into the rest of the 2023 releases and the highlights along with the state of the resale of game of Jordans. A can't miss episode!
In this episode, I share my thoughts on the big Hip Hop show that happened in Detroit last week to highlight 50 years of hip hop which included Rakim, EPMD, Krs-One, Slick Rick, Dougie Fresh and Big Daddy Kane!!!
In this episode, I talk about some of the many rap beefs that have surfaced in the last 30 days with some of hip hop's biggest names like Drake, Childish Gambino, Pusha T, Jim Jones and Talib Kweli.
In this episode, I share the 6th installment of the 2023 til Infinity Tribute of my top 12 favourite albums of 1993 which all turn 30 years this year. In this one, I share my thoughts on the legendary KRS-One and his debut solo project Return of the Boom Bap. Check out the whole episode as I have a story to tell.
Its the first day of summer!!!! In this episode, we will discuss all of the summer heat that will drop in Summer '23 from all brands.
In this episode, I share part 5 of my 2023 til Infinity series - Souls of Mischief. The quartet from East Oakland California delivers one of the greatest debut albums of all time. This one is near and dear to me so let's break it down the Hiero's effect on hip hop.
In this episode. we talk with Lexia Donaldson - sneaker collector, dancer, devoted Muslim, mother and believer of equality. We deep dive into Lexia's early love for sneakers, athletics and dancer while seeing her maturation to finding her Muslim faith and embracing parenthood. That is just a sample of what discuss but that is truly a beautiful journey we discuss. Can't miss episode.
In this episode, Karen (IG @kayinsnkrland) returns and we break down a sneaker movie release from earlier this year (now available on Amazon Prime) - Air. The movie Air shares the partnership between a then-rookie Michael Jordan and Nike’s struggling basketball business. The creation of the Jordan 1 and the Jordan Brand starts here.
In this episode, we were able to connect with Cali's own Wax Curator. We hear his early beginnings and his passion for hip hop.
In this episode, the series of my top 12 albums of the incredible year of 1993 continues - 30 years of greatness. April's focus is Erick Sermon's No Pressure. This is the debut album of Erick Sermon as a solo artist. Previously he was part of the legendary trio EPMD which included Parrish Smith and DJ Scratch. Flow, Production and Lyricism made this an effort from E-Double.
In this episode, I share some thoughts on amazing energy coming out of Knicks nation as the win their opening round vs the Cavs 4 games to 1.
We HERE!!! I am in total Life mode (of Sneaks, Rhymes and Life categories) as we talk about the beginning of the New York Knicks Series vs the Cavs. I also share my thoughts on the the wild opening weekend of the NBA playoffs along with some predictions. Only seems right that it is Season 3 (John Starks) and Ep 33 (Patrick Ewing). Let's Go New York Knicks!!!!
In this episode, we take it back to Scarborough, where we connect with Nish Raawks, a hip hop emcee (of Monolith and Cedarhill notoriety). Nish and I went to the same school and grew up in the same area so we reminisce of her first days in hearing hip hop and start off as as rapper. He shares some amazing perspectives of his career and new projects that he is working on. Great episode!!!
In this episode, hot off the heels of Air Max Month, I am joined by Andy Stearns and we deep dive to Complex Sneakers' recent list of the 50 best Nike shoes. A daunting task to break this down, two OG sneaker heads take a crack at this list and examine it from all angles. Great episode for all sneakers fans!
As we jus hit the end of March and Women's History Month, we have a returning guest to this episode. Romessa aka @Five6sneakerchick. We catch up and talk about latest sneakers, updates to her collection, upcoming releases and the state of the sneaker game during women's history month. A great episode for sure!
In this episode, this is the third stop on my '23 til Infinity tribute on the 12 great hip hop albums of 1993 - arguably the best year in hip hop history. RIP to Plug 2 aka Dave aka Trugoy, Buhloone Mindstate was the gate way album for me and De La Soul so it holds a special place in my heart. I thought many times of not recording this because just too many rappers have passed away way too soon. I decided to push forward and share my thoughts and feelings towards the album.
In the episode, we connect with some of members of Makeway (Ramona and Kie). This is a dynamic episode as it is also co-hosted by Karen Leroux. We get into each of the women on their personal style, favourite sneakers and experiences at Makeway. Makes for a great episode with a lot of great commentary. Here's to hoping this is the first of many episodes with the team from Makeway.
In this episode, the podcast welcomes Gabby Gonzalez from Kick Essentials, one of the hottest sneaker resale spots in NYC. We connected on my NYC travel as we were talking sneakers and here she is on the pod. Gabby takes us back to her early sneaker days as she was just getting into the game. She shares her views on women in the sneaker industry, the rise of New Balance and how she became an incredible content creator and so much more. This episode is a must listen and watch!
In this episode, Kiah, a content creator (known from @SimplyKiah and her Sneaker Facts on IG - go check it out) joins the podcast co hosted by Karen Leroux. Karen and I team up to chat with Kiah on her collection, Women's History Month and her incredible fashion sense. This is a MUST watch/listen episode. Available on all streaming platforms and YouTube. This is all part of the Sneaks, Rhymes and Life celebration of Women's History Month - amazing women and their allies. Check it out!
In this episode, Elberlyn Gerristen Hill aka LB returns to the podcast to talk about her growing career in retail and as a rapper, her love for sneakers, Women's History Month and some great things she has done to highlight the Indigenous community.
On this episode, Karen aka Kayinsnkrland joins us for her first episode as co host along with special guest Da Heartbreak Kidd. This is the part of our Women's history month focus where women and allies of women will be highlighted in the month of March from the worlds of hip hop, sneakers and so much more.
In this episode, I review the recent concert by Nas and Hit Boy as Madison Square Garden on 2/24/23 title the King's Disease Trilogy show where his last 4 projects including Magic were performed and celebrated plus so many other surprises.
In this episode, we move to part 2 of the 2023 'til Infinity tribute celebrating one of my 12 favourite albums as the great year of 1993 hip hop releases turns 30. February brings us Black Moon's Enta Da Stage, the debut album for the group and the Boot Camp Clik crew. Check out my thoughts and its cultural impact.
In this episode, I share many current events of the last few weeks including Lebron the Scoring Champ, Feb releases, RIP Trugoy from De La Soul and much more live from Salt Lake City and NBA All Star Week.
Major announcement in this episode!!! Do not miss it!!! Secondly, Karen Leroux aka Kayinsnkrland returns to the pod to discuss her latest pickups, trending sneakers and what to look forward to in 2023 from a release perspective.
In this episode, I revisit the year in Hip Hop for 1993, arguably the best year in the history of the art form. I will feature one album each month for 12 months. January's feature is LA's Tha Alkaholiks and their Album 21 & Over.
In this episode, I talk about some of the best voices in Hip Hop. There are so many, after recording this episode I will hit you with part 2 coming soon!
In this episode, we are joined by Patrik Kabongo aka PK - rap emcee, family man, streetwear trendsetter and a man of many layers he could be the most fascinating person I have every met. Potentially, Canada’s most interesting man. We talk about meteoric rise on the hip hop scene, sneakers and so much more! This is a can't miss episode!
As I think back to 2022, there are some great moments to recap. Check out this episode where are my top 5 sneakers, albums, concerts, sport moments and shockers. A whole lots of fun.
In this episode, with the recent energy around the OG Chicago 2, I discuss the history of the Jordan 2 and the sigma that surrounds the sneaker. I talk about some of my favourites and the excitement for 2023.
Happy New Year SRL Nation! In this episode, we connect with fellow Toronto native and sneaker enthusiast Philip dos Santos. We get into some of his favourite sneakers, his love for the Raptors and basketball along with a crazy sneaker story that we have in common. This episode is a must listen!
Back by popular demand, my daughter Winnie has returned to the pod for special edition episode. She shares fun things including her first few months in here new class. A fun one for the holidays. This is the "Life" segment of Sneaks, Rhymes and Life. Happy holidays everyone!
In this episode, I catch up with another OG - Jay Carter and legendary sneaker collection that he has built in his travels across Canada. We talk about his favorite styles, a sneaker story or two and what needs to change in the sneaker world. Dont miss this episode!
In this episode, I connect with Nick Wilson from Arizona, content creator for Reshoevn8r. We get into his love for sneakers (lots of love for Jordans and New Balance), his amazing experience with Reshoevn8r and so much more! Check it out. Can't miss episode!
In this episode, I take you through some of the best b-ball kicks to buy as a gift for Holiday 2022.
In this episode, we talk to a true student of the sneaker game, Unkle Sean. We talk about his passions for sneakers particularly Air Max and the game today. It was like 15 years ago, he interviewed me for his university thesis on sneaker culture in Toronto - this is truly a full circle moment.
It has taken over two seasons to track this guest down but we got him! The pod welcomes Courtney Walters the CEO of @tha.snkr.box IG page and movement. We talk everything sneakers and stroll down memory lane as we have crossed paths countless times in the 6ix. You will love this episode!
As we roll towards the holidays, November 26 years ago was birth to a highly underrated album - Mobb Deep's Hell on Earth, their 3rd studio album. In this episode, I share my thoughts on the project.
In this episode, I share the history of the Air Force 1, the energy around the activations in NA and some of my favourite pairs of this iconic sneaker.
In this episode, I share the best book I have read this year (did it in between season 2 and 3) - Hip Hop and other things by Shea Serrano. A great read for all hip hop fans. I will share a few highlights including the creation of the Magic Age Mix Tape based on events of my life (an exercise in book).
In this episode, I reference an article on the Robb Report ranking of the top 15 Air Jordan sneakers all time. I share my personal top 10 will makes for a very interesting comparison vs their list.
Lets explore the Ye and Adidas situation that led to the agreement between to ultimately come to a conclusion.
Breaking News - KD3 is on the way share on Nas' IG post earlier this week. I share my thoughts, a step back looking at Nas' catalogue overall and his relationship with Hit Boy.
I am back after a summer hiatus! Lots to share but its good to be back behind the mic. Lots of episodes to share this fall. Let's start with today's topic. MC Serch selling his publishing rights of Nas' catalogue and the power of owning your art.
They are back - Black Star. Yasiin Bey (formally Mos Def) and Talib Kweli recreate the magic that is Black Star. I will take you on a journey of Rawkus Records and Black Star and there latest project No fear of Time.
In this episode, its May 4th so I talk about everything Jordan 4 – my favourite sneaker. From the history of the Jordan 4 to why its so iconic and my 10 favourites. Check this episode for all sneakerheads and Jordan 4 fans alike.
In this episode, I will share thoughts on a recent article I read on the future shift of sneaker culture - the customer experience.
In this episode, I sit down with artist Kathy Ager from Vancouver, who is an oil based painter and she creates the most amazing pieces of art which incorporate sneakers. She shares her creative process, her growing gallery of masterpieces and how her business is growing. Such a great conversation - check it out!
One of our favourite guests returns for this episode Karen Leroux. We catch up and chat about recent sneaker drops, some of the new retail spaces in Toronto and some great sneaker stories. As we are in women's history month, Karen share her perspective of women's sneaker culture. Don't miss this episode!
In this episode, I will share my thoughts on the recent Ye (Kayne West) documentary currently on Netflix.
In this episode, I talk about the NBA All Star Weekend - from sneakers to celebs to the events and the outlook on the rest of the season.
Drake? Kendrick Lamar? Dr. Dre? Busta? Who are you really looking forward to hearing new music from in 2022? In this episode, I will share my thoughts.
Who's excited for the 2022 sneaker drops?!?! Some of the Dec drop (Szn 2/Ep. 30) got moved into 2022 but there are also great kicks to look forward to in 2022. In this episode, I will take you through them.
In this episode, I share my thoughts on the late MF Doom who passed away in late 2020. I still have this on my mind.
In this episode, I talk about some of the great women who have blessed the mic. We are at an all time high with women rappers. There are so many good one right now. I reflect on my 10 favourite of all time.
In this episode, I talk about the sneaker climate and what is coming out in the month of December. Some big launches from a lot brands to check for!
In this episode, I sit down with LQ and Smeazy who form the dynamic rap group MC². We talk about several things including their latest project Space Tape. The duo are complex and deep emcees - not Kool Aid emcees.
In this episode, some get the headlines while others get no love. I will talk about rap groups that never good the love they should have and need their flowers asap!
In this episode, I talk about everything New Balance. NB 574, 990, 1200 and 550s are all dope again in the sneaker world. How did this happen? High Snobiety has already mentioned this is the new must have classic footwear footwear and it a strong alternative to the iconic Air Force 1. Check out the episode and let me break it down.
In this episode, I share a insightful conversation with a sneakerhead new to the game - Romessa. We have a lot of fun talking about favourite models, wearing sneakers at work and her rapidly growing collection. Peep this awesome episode.
In this episode, Faraz returns to the pod and we discuss our thoughts on the iconic Reebok Question as it turns 25 years old.
My favorite guest to date - my 6 year old daughter Winnie. She wanted to talk hip hop with dad so we dove into Netflix's latest kids show with a hip hop twist - Karma's World.
In this episode, I chat with an OG sneaker collector and hip hop fan Mir-Joe Iqbal (@mrtwo3 on IG). He shares some of his favorite sneakers and some encounters with MJ, Kobe and even Yaslin Bey (Mos Def).
In this episode, I talk about the legendary career of KRS-One and his most recent Verzus battle with Big Daddy Kane.
In this episode, I connect with area code 514 and beloved Montreal where we find Samuel Friedman aka Sneaker Sam. He shares his love for sneakers, his favourite brands/silhouettes and perspective on shoe quality along with one amazing shoe story. Check it out!
In this episode, I virtually sit down with my sneaker sista - Karen Leroux. We talk about some many great things in the conversation including her collection, Instagram account Kayinsnkrland and sneakers culture from a woman's point of view.
In this episode, on the cusp of his bday - I celebrate one of the legends of Hip Hop Big Daddy Kane.
In this episode, I catch up with a good friend of mine - Dudley Thomas Jr. We talk sneakers, sports and a little music.
In this episode, I connect with musical recording artist G.I.L. from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We talk about her Christian roots and how that has influenced her music, favorite emcees and her upcoming album releasing October 1, 2021Q
In this episode, I will go through some of the cleats that were worn in week 1 and preseason. The cleats on field have really changed and mirror sneaker culture. I will also dive into the early season results.
In this episode, I discuss the power of the Olympics Basketball shoes and some of their icon moments in basketball and sneaker history.
The summer is winding down so wear dem kicks! From casual sneaker lovers to hype beasts, I take you through some of the sneakers people are wearing this summer in this episode.
In this episode, I share my thoughts on Kings Disease II, 13th studio album from Nas produced by Hit Boy. After the Grammy success of last year in 2020, Nas and Hit Boy are back with the arguably the best album of 2021. Is Nas now in his third prime? Listen to hear my thoughts.
In this episode, we remember Sean Price aka Ruck from the legendary New York Squad Boot Camp Clik - 6 years after his passing. I share my thoughts on his legacy, his career and the time I got to see up close and personal
This episode is the celebration of Hip Hop turning 48 years old. I address the elements of the culture, its place in time and some of the early beginnings.
In this episode, I sit down with recording artist Elberlyn Hill from Ottawa who is a rapper and avid sneaker collector. We talk about her latest release, her love for sneakers and so much more. Check out this dope episode!
The title speaks for itself - this album is only for the roughest and toughest ones out there. In this episode we reflect on the Wu Tang solo classic by Raekwon featuring Ghostface Killah and its cultural reference.
In this episode, I talk about a crazy week in Hip Hop. From Nas' new album released on Aug 6th to Kayne's listening party Aug 5th to the Lupe/Royce da 5'9 beef. Exciting news about the bill passed declaring Hip Hop day on August 11th in addition to Hip Hop History and Recognition Months.
In this episode, we talk about some of the greatest emcee alive (with a few honourable mentions). Lets give them their props, flowers and respect while they are still alive.
Today, I share my interview with legendary emcee El da Sensei. Many would know El from his breakthrough single Wrong Side of the Tracks and the debut album Between a Rock and Hard Place as part of the Artifacts. He has been in the game for over 27 years and has created so many amazing solo and collaboration projects. A student of the game and an on-stage giant. Check out this great episode!
In this episode, we talk about the mystique of the sneaker influencer and some that influence the sneaker game in Toronto. Each a has their unique way of how they have connected with sneakers and the city of Toronto.
In this episode, we go back look at the debut album of Eric B and Rakim - Paid In Full and how that composition truly took Emceeing and DJing to new heights in 1987. The influence of this album is still felt today.... 34 years later.
Welcome back for season 2! The world of sports takes us to the Stanley Cup, WNBA, The NBA Finals, the Olympics and more.
In this episode, I share my thoughts on the unicorn known as Kendrick Lamar Duckworth and when he will bless us with album number 5.
In this episode, I sit down with super creator Victoria Chiang aka @wutangchiang.
Victoria is an influencer, sneaker lover, foodie and hip hop fan. A really fun conversation - she is so dope!
In this episode, I will share some sneaker book recommendations along with 10 hype shoes (maybe a few honorable mentions) for the summer of 2021).
In this episode, we talk about the group that inspired my podcast name - A Tribe Called Quest. The Highs, the Lows and their legacy.
Once again we have Nick Keeling returning to now debate to two hip hop classics from the same group A Tribe Called Quest. Lots of discussion on which album is the best - Low End Theory or Midnight Marauders. Listen in to Nick and I debate this.
Got'em!!!! The long awaited arrival of my best friend Nick Keeling jumps into the booth for podcast for Ep. 48. We talk about sneakers, some of his stories and definitely some great hip hop conversations. Check it out!
In this episode, I will discuss Game 7 Mavs vs Clippers on Sunday June 6th. We have Luka Doncic, young budding NBA superstar and Jordan athlete playing for the Dallas Mavericks. On the other side is wo time finals MVP plus New Balance spokesman Kawhi Leonard leading the LA Clippers.
In this episode, I chat with an old colleague Tamara Carnegie on her sneaker collection and the exciting start to the WNBA. What an amazing start to 25th season of the league. Some great story lines are happening in the WNBA.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In this episode, I talk everything Knicks. What went wrong in the playoffs and what does the off season look like for them.
In this episode, I will pay tribute to the late Big L on his bday week. Lamont Coleman was Harlem raised and this incredible emcee was murdered prior to the release his second album - the Big Picture.
In this episode, I share 10 hip hop songs (plus several honourable mentions lol) that shaped the 90s for me. They are great songs but not the most popular or best selling. More like 10 that immediately raise my energy level and put a smile on my face. Incredibly difficult process. I had originally 50 on my original list and had to whittle it down.
In this episode, I will share my thoughts on Sun Rises in the East - the Debut LP from Jeru the Damaja on its 27th anniversary
In this episode, I connect with Andrew Robinson host of INCITE Entertainment late night show. Drewskey is proud of his Jamaican roots, sneaker collection and his community. He's shares his insights to his plans to continue to give back to his community and grow his new late night show. Check it out - BIG UP!!
Welcome to Hip Hop appreciation week SRL fans! In this episode I discuss the all-around talents of J Cole - Rapper, Producer, athlete, and sneaker endorser. This is off the heels of his amazing freestyle on LA Leakers and his latest studio release - The Off Season.
In this episode, I welcome Basma Hakem - Sneaker lover, Podcast host of Call Me Crazy and general spreader of positive vibes. We discuss Basma's love for sneakers and sneaker culture including her early beginnings. We also get into her amazing podcast called Call Me Crazy which focuses on mental health and her love for sneakers - definitely a must listen.
We are giving our flowers to Havoc and the late Prodigy (R.I.P. P) for creating one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time - the Infamous ... now 26 years old. We will talk about its influence, its rating and how it was created.
Legend alert!!! In this episode, I got a chance to speak with lyrical genius and Diggin In The Crates Member Omar Credle popularly known as O.C. We talked about his early years of his career, the creation of Word... Life (includes one of the greatest hip hop songs ever Times Up), Jewels and the creation of the Return of the Crooklyn.
In this episode, we give some flowers to Carmelo Anthony who is now in the Top 10 all time in NBA scoring. I will also quickly run though his history and some of the sneakers he has worn as part of the Jordan brand.
In this episode, I bring Jason Gloyns, a fellow hip hop enthusiast and Football mega fan like myself. We do a Mock Draft of the first 20 picks, what Washington and Green Bay in the draft and what happens with the Running backs. Special dedication of this episode to Mike Kotsopoulos my childhood best friend who passed away 25 years ago. #RIPMJK
This episode, I talk about the life of Earl Simmonds otherwise known as DMX (Dark Man X).
In this episode, I go in depth on the VerzusTV 4/20 performance by hip hop superstars Redman and Method Man. I also give you some background on this amazing dynamic duo.
In this episode, we talk to Bronx born - Anthony Miller (ChampTyson82 on IG). Anthony is much like myself - massive New York Knicks fan, Golden Era enthusiast and sneaker fan. We go heavy into the recent 6 game winning streak by the Knicks, Julius Randle, his favorite Emcees and Producers. Also we touch on the recent passing of DMX and Black Rob and the exciting Verzus event featuring Redman and Method Man.
In this episode, I take about Vince Carter, his career, impact on Toronto and his early sneakers.
This episode is a special collaboration with Scarborough native, Sneaker enthusiast, influencer and podcaster (Channel 8 Podcast) Sean Go. I spent time on Sean’s podcast released earlier this week and now he has joined on Sneaks, Rhymes and Life. We will discuss Sean’s formative sneaker years, his role as a influencer and some of this favourite sneakers.
In this episode, we talk everything Baron Davis who has his bday today. We talk about his basketball career, life after basketball, sneaker love and the time that I met him.
Hey everyone, we will get into the top Dunk releases of 2020 (super hard to get) along with a back story on the Iconic sneaker style. Hope you enjoy it. Recorded 4/9 RIP DMX
In this episode, I go through the 10 best signature sneakers. Some I sold, some I saw on tv and some I own. Join me on this fun topic! Who's going to be number 1?
A quick reaction to the announcement of a third lockdown in Ontario starting Thursday April 8, 2021. Safety is the priority for everyone.
In this episode, we hear from Faraz one of the true sneaker kings in Canada who lives in the GTA. We talk about his incredible collection, sneaker shopping in the pandemic, his favourite styles and brands. Check him out on IG at @laced_heat.
Happy Easter for those that celebrate! In this episode, I will take you through my favourite Easter sneakers. In addition, we saw some crazy March Madness games on the weekend (recap) and have the big men's finals tonight Gonzaga vs. Baylor (preview) so I will share my thoughts.
In this episode, I will discuss 3 albums that would the 3 gate way albums to a new hip hop listener. Also we have a little fun - I match up some of the most famous rappers and their NBA counterpart.
In this episode, I give you a brief history of the source and why it was the holy grail of hip hop information before the internet. Unsigned Hype, Heavy Rotation and the ever controversial 5 Mic rating. I will take you deeper into who got 5 mics originally, who got 5 mics later on and albums that should have gotten 5 mics.
In this episode, I will talk about a lot of my favourite emcces that have tragically passed away way too soon. The list is long but I highlight some of my favourites like The Notorious B.I.G., Guru, Prodigy, Sean Price, Nipsey Hussle and Big L plus a lot more.
We continue with DAN-E-O and breakdown some of the best rap emcees, duos, groups and producers. In addition, he shares his top emcees and quick thoughts on the Toronto sports scene.
Special double episode with the legendary Hip Hop Emcee and actor Dan-E-O from the the Monolith crew. Daniel shares impactful early days as an fan and as an emcee, his love for hip hop and his ever-growing acting career including his latest: 21 Black Futures - 40 Parsecs and Some Fuel. Part 2 will be available later in the day.
In this episode, we will hear from Dee Jay Tee Junior- DJ of a variety of different genres including hip hop, the anniversary of the passing of Biggie Smalls and a little sneakers talk.
We with deep dive with Benji on roots in DJing, the impact of the pandemic, our kids and our shared passion for the golden era of hip hop
Episode 12 I tackle everything in 30 mins about Mr. Kayne West - sneaks, rhymes and life.
This episode I chop it up with DJ LuvLee aka Hustle and Muscle - athlete, DJ, golden era hip hop head. We talk hip hop, hip hop and more hip hop
In this episode, we talk to Knivesz aka Fern- Activist for women's equality, Krump Dancer and Sneakerhead. We talk about her early roots in Krump, her sneaker collection and her love for both and impact of women's in both cultures.
This episode is with Ramona Amante - Sneaker head and owner Rawmoans. We chat on her business and how Covid inspired her to start. In additional we talk about fashion and her style, sneakers and women in sneaker culture. This one was a lot of fun!
In this episode, we chat with Samantha Nikahwal - retail buyer and sneakerhead who shares her passion for street culture. She shares her love for sneakers, those that influence her and how she inspiring those that are following in her foot steps.
Hello everyone! In this episode, we will review MMA royalty Amanda Nunes and why she is the best active fighter on the planet pound for pound. Along with that, we will talk about the 25th anniversary and return of the Griffey Max 1 and how iconic Ken Griffey Jr. was in the 90s and early 20s.
This episode we will talk about Tiger Woods and his latest setback. In addition, we will touch on the hot upcoming launches from March 2021 moving forward.
In this episode, I will talk to Amanda Ruller - media host, athlete, coach and totally dope personality. We will talk about women in sports media, the impact of the pandemic, football and a whole lot more.
In this episode we will talk to Devon Harvey - who is huge into sneaker culture, an advocate for women’s equality and so many other things. We dig in on the sneaker scene and the upcoming International Women’s Day.
Episode 2 will cover Icons - The Jordan 1 - at an all time high in the sneaker game, will it slow down? Snoop or Tupac - Who had the best album? EPMD or Outkast - who is the better duo?
Just had some thoughts on the All Star nomination process and how Damien Lillard has been slighted again. Fast forward that the Reverses were announced.
Whats good everyone! Welcome to Sneaks, Rhymes and Life - the podcast. I'm your host Lionel K. McDonald Jr. - Scarborough raised, black man who loves sneakers, hip hop and life. You will hear me discuss 90s basketball sneakers - their impact and their demise, favourite hip hop emcees and the state of Lock down 2.0 in Toronto, Canada.