June 5, 2026 • 33 mins
Born and raised in Queens, Elisa Martini is holding it down at NYU while spending every spare minute chasing clips and hunting for spots. We talk about growing up first-generation Albanian, balancing school and skating, and why the love of skateboarding has very little to do with a name on a board. Let's go Knicks. Plus, it's back tail summer.
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Speaker 1 (00:03):
Good Luck with That is an iheartwomen's sports production in
partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
What's up, everyone, Welcome back to good Luck with That,
a podcast about skateboarding.
Speaker 3 (00:15):
I'm your host, Ashley Raefeld.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Today we've got Alisa Martini joining us all the way
in from New York, and we do have to acknowledge
tonight it's a big night. It's Game one Nicks versus Spurs,
and as you are a devout Nix loyalist, I am
going to be mindful of your time so I can
get you off this call into that game.
Speaker 3 (00:34):
Should we even be having this call right now?
Speaker 4 (00:38):
Honestly, this is no. This is like I'm in the
best mood. This is like a perfect time to have
the call, Like like we're in the finals. Every day
I've just been like overjoyed plus skating. It's just I've
been This is a perfect time. So you're a born
and raised queen skater. You ride for Bronze Casey DC
is still, in my opinion, one of your shops that
(00:59):
you write for. You're an NYU marketing student, Like I said,
devout Knicks fan. I feel like you're at every skate
session premiere event and kind of all the good corners
of skateboarding right now, which which I want to know
how you're doing all of that, but yeah, what does
your life look like this week.
Speaker 3 (01:17):
And what's taking up all the brain space dude?
Speaker 4 (01:19):
Honestly, yeah, I mean I try to be active as
much as I can and be outside. I just came
out of finals, so that was like a super gnarly
time and one of my really good friends JP Blair,
like we were working on finishing this video and I
was trying to get some clips for it. So between
that and like finishing junior year, all I got always
(01:40):
last semester pretty stoked. The Nicks are in finals, so
it's just like, honestly, that's such a big part of
my life, just me and my friends just being so
excited for that and just being in that because it's
like such a historic moment in history and this is
the first time in my life that I'm seeing this,
and for many of my friends too, because twenty seven
(02:00):
years since the last time we were even in the finals.
So I'm just we're just really excited to like be
in this and be seeing this. I just recently moved
to so every day I've been like spending like a
couple hours like building some shit in the morning for
my apartment. Like I just finished building like this new
rack with this like countertop thing. I'm about to build
(02:24):
a dresser next week. Wish me luck. But yeah, that's
like basically the main things taking up most of my
time before.
Speaker 2 (02:30):
We kind of crack into a lot of the past
and getting people up dispute about who you are and
all that.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
You bring to skateboarding.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
I kind of want to establish where you stand on
some very important issues. Yeah, well it's time for get
a grip, and it's a quick rapid fire just so
we can get a little insight into your brain and
how things work up there. If Nicks win the finals
or you get a bronze board tomorrow, which one would
you choose.
Speaker 4 (02:56):
Nicks won the finals?
Speaker 3 (02:58):
That's not even a question really. Overgoing pro, you're all in.
Speaker 4 (03:03):
Well, like would I never go pro? Or like go
pro tomorrow?
Speaker 3 (03:06):
Never go pro?
Speaker 4 (03:10):
Dude, I don't know.
Speaker 3 (03:13):
How much do you love to do?
Speaker 4 (03:14):
That's so fucked to say, but like I don't know,
because also it's like what does going pro even mean?
Like not saying it's like a bad thing or it
doesn't mean anything, but that's like not the end. It
will be all in skating. And if the Knicks won
the finals, like like who knows when they're gonna even
like get this far again, I don't know, dude, Nicks
(03:34):
won the finals, I don't care, I don't care. Fuck
it fuck it's right. That's not even that crazy to
say because it doesn't. It won't change my skating at all.
It's just a board. The Knicks are gonna win the finals.
Best New York skater like influenced me the most, Sean
Powers influenced me the most, and rob Gunyan rob Gunyan
(04:00):
shout out backside flipped flushing six, gnarliest thing ever? What's
the best burrow queens all day?
Speaker 3 (04:10):
Which borrow talks the most shit?
Speaker 4 (04:12):
Probably like maybe queens in like Brooklyn, but everyone talks shit,
like if you're from New York, you talk so much
like dude, and it's but it's not like gnarl, it's
just all love, you know. It's like everyone just talks
shit to talk shit. Doesn't even like me anything.
Speaker 3 (04:26):
Okay, If we had to sacrifice a burrow, which one's going.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
Sotoun island out most annoying New York tourist behavior.
Speaker 4 (04:33):
I think just like not having any spatial awareness, probably
like just stopping in the middle of the street when
things are going on. I do love tourists though, because
it makes like it makes me like appreciate New York more,
like Damn, you're walking on the subway and you're taking
photos at the subway and I'm just like walking here, like, Yo,
this smells like shit and you're just out here like
appreciating it and taking photos. So it's kind of sick.
(04:55):
But when people have no spatial awareness, I hate that.
I'm like, yo, pack it one trick that always looks good.
Nice gnolly heel.
Speaker 3 (05:04):
What's the last part you watched twice?
Speaker 4 (05:06):
Last part I watched twice Jake Baldini's part in what
did You Expect? Skate brand that's hot right now, Quasi
shout out.
Speaker 3 (05:15):
Okay, plane ticket tomorrow. Where are you going.
Speaker 4 (05:18):
Dude, I'm going to San Antonio to go see this
game two if I get that's where the NIXT game
is happening right now. It's away game.
Speaker 2 (05:26):
San Antonio, which actually there's pretty good skateboarding there, so
you could double dip on this.
Speaker 3 (05:31):
I'd love to kind.
Speaker 2 (05:32):
Of just get people up to speed with who you
are and a little bit about your story.
Speaker 3 (05:38):
So tell me about like where you came from.
Speaker 4 (05:40):
Yeah, I'm from Queens, New York. My parents are Albanian.
Moved here in the late nineties kind of after my
parents like grew up in like you know, the normally
like regime over there, and then we're kind of like
refugees from like Warren stuff like that. I came here
(06:03):
and yeah, I just had me a couple of years
later when raised them from wood Haven and then I
moved to Fresh Meadows like when I was pretty young,
always in Queens, And yeah, I started skating pretty late,
like when I was like fifteen. I picked it up
super late, just like for fun, something to do oh
(06:23):
with my friends, and then it just kind of like
went on from there.
Speaker 2 (06:27):
When did your parents like kind of realized that skateboarding
wasn't a phase and did they ever have like a
very like Albanian response to it?
Speaker 4 (06:36):
Yeah, like it was. I remember it was like the
summer of like when I was supposed to take like
my SATs, Like I was supposed to take my first
one like that September or something, and I was going
out to skate every single day like after my sat
like classes and stuff like that, and I would go
to Forest Park shout out forest Park. And one of
(06:59):
the and I came back I taking some practice tests.
And I came back with a practice test and I
did not get a good score. And I was showing
this to my mom, and I was like, I'm trying
my hardest, Like is I'm not like this test is
like harder for me to get a better score right now?
And she was just like she was like, well, if
you weren't skating every day, like and you'd be at
home more like you'd get better you do you get
(07:20):
a better score? And I was just like and I
was like, dude, like what this has like nothing to
do with this, like and and and she was like,
what are you even like trying to do here? Like
she like in the beginning, she wasn't bummed because she
was like, oh, she's being outside and she's exercising, like
this is time she thought of it, but like and
she was like, what are you even trying to do
with this? And I was like, I don't know, I'm
(07:40):
just trying to like skate like a lot, like people
you know actually live like this, You know, she's like,
what are you talking about? Like people like she couldn't
even like fathom that people like have pro careers and
like live off of skating, which is valid, Like I
didn't even know that either until I started skating. But
(08:01):
she was just like it was the funniest thing. She
was like what, Like she was so confused. But you know,
a couple like years later, like once I got on
KCDC at the time, and then like that same month,
like Volcom sent me a box and then I got
a Van's box. She was like what, Like she was
so confused, but she was hyped. She was like this
is like really cool, Like I'm I'm glad you're doing this.
(08:24):
And then maybe like a I think like a year
or two later, like once maybe a year later, once
I got like announced like on Bronze and they posted
me and stuff like that, and I just told her
like how much all that meant to me and everything.
She was like all right, like these people are being
really good to you, they're taking care of you, like
you seem to be really happy doing this. Just do
(08:45):
what you need to do. But she was always just
like to even now, she's like, please stay in school,
like I need you, like graduate school, which is something
also I really want to do for them and for
myself because like like you said, first gen here and
they always wanted me to have this opportunity. So and
it's been good. I've been able to balance it pretty well.
Speaker 3 (09:07):
Why do one when you can have both?
Speaker 2 (09:08):
You know? True, We'll be right back with the Lisa
Martini right after this ad break.
Speaker 3 (09:24):
What in your mind like made it stick?
Speaker 2 (09:26):
Like, I don't know, you're fifteen, you're skating, There's so
many other interests going on, and somehow you like stayed
loyal to skateboarding in the pursuit of it, Like how
did that come about?
Speaker 4 (09:37):
Dude? I don't even know, Like not even to be corny,
but like I just felt like skating like filled in
every single like whole or problem like in my life,
Like not even to even be just like corny about it,
Like and if that's how it is, I'll be that.
I'll be that any day. I had so many friends
out of nowhere from skating that are like still my
(09:58):
friends to this day, like a real friends, you know,
Like skaters are like artists and like have so much
other cool shit going on, and like that's the way
I am too, Like I went to art school, I've
done art my whole life, and like, I don't know,
there's just something also skating. It's like you can never
really be like perfect at skating, Like nobody's ever can
(10:19):
can really be like that at skating, Like there's always
like more like the pursuit like never ends. And there's
also kind of something about that chase or it's just
like I'll never be bored, Like I'm always gonna like
there's always something I'm gonna need to get better at.
There's always something like even if I know how to
do a trick, well, it's like can you do it
at this spot? Or like you know, there's always something
harder you can get something at, and it's just like
(10:40):
continuing to like you know, just kind of like get better.
And also just like I remember I started skating because
I literally like in my mind, I was like I
just felt like like just to be like so honest,
I just like at the time, I was just like
such a nerd and I just like was such like
a homebody and shit, and I was just like I
feel like I'd be so much cooler if I just
(11:00):
like learned how to skateboard just like try like kickflip.
I've like if I could kickflip, I was like, dude,
I'll be like the coolest girl in the world. Like
I feel so cool, and like now that I'm like
so in it, it's like, of course I feel cool,
but it's not even about that. It's like it built
so much confidence inside me where I was just like, dude,
I was sick all along, like I just had to
like stay true to myself and like do my thing
(11:21):
and like yeah, just like it just means like so
much to me. I'm so grateful for like the community
I've made, for the opportunities, like all this stuff that's
going on. I'm like, dude, I never expected any of that,
Like Bronze like come on, Like I never expected any
of that. Like I watched like It's Time and I
was just like, well, these are just like the coolest
(11:43):
people ever and they're from Queens, Like this is so cool,
Like hopefully I can be this good. But never did
I even think I would be. These people would be
like my closest friends and like my crew and like
be the people to show me the way. It's just
like what like skateboarding gave me these experiences.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
It's cool that skateboarding like is just like make it
your own, do it yourself, and it's like high reward
and like I said, you've like just been given this
like crazy community because of it.
Speaker 4 (12:11):
I was just so happy I found it as like
a hobby. I'm like, I'm just gonna do this for
the rest of my life. I love skateboarding more than
I did the day before, Like and I sometimes I
can't even believe that's even possible. Like I like it
to this day, Like it makes me like loose sleep
that night. I just get so fucking excited to skateboard,
and it makes it's like I feel like the same
as like when I first started. Obviously I have like
(12:34):
my moments of just like not feeling as confident and
like whatever, just based on like filming and just the
way the journey is. I'm so happy I found it
because especially like being a kid from here, Like dude,
there's not many kids from New York that skateboard. That's
not like a big thing, you know, Like it's like
some people pick it up here and there, but there's
like not many New York City born and raised. So
(12:55):
it's like especially like girls, dude, like so like little
to know and and that's just like in my only
in my generation. I've asked around and I've been like
who else, Like obviously there's like yes, but she's from Hawaii,
you know, and she left her mark in New York.
I'm giving her that, but like, there really hasn't been
any girl from New York that has really stuck to
(13:15):
and has filmed a lot and done that.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
So you have goals in New York.
Speaker 2 (13:20):
I am ready to see more parts from you as
a born and raised like New Yorker.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
I think that is a really interesting point that you
brought up.
Speaker 4 (13:27):
I've really asked, like, you know, like I've I don't
want to like be like, oh I'm the first, Like
I've genuinely like especially like I'm asked to all the
Browns people and like whoever, because they've been around for
a long time, and like, yeah, that's what they said.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
I do want to kind of go go back into
like you are managing going to school as a full
time student and not at like a low key school.
Speaker 3 (13:47):
You're not going to like a city college.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
You're going to NYU right now off the back of
an art degree. You're super talented artists. I've seen your work,
so that's a cool foundation. And now you're studying marketing
and media as is that right?
Speaker 4 (14:01):
Yeah. I went to Labardia High School, which is a
public art school in New York, and I commuted like
an hour thirty to go to school, so I woke
up aut like five thirty every morning and like just
had such long days and so I just kind of
like put in so much time for that art degree.
I got that degree, and I was just like, I
don't want to do art anymore. In college, Like I'm
(14:22):
glad I still found my way and I'm making paintings
and stuff, and that's like literally just based on the
hype of like me being with my friends and like
capturing cool photos and stuff, which on hyped I still
have as a hobby. But I was just like, I
was like no, So I was like in the first year,
I just went undecided, just only for the first year
because I was like, I need to figure out what
(14:43):
I'm going to do. But then media and marketing just
made sense because I just feel like it's super applicable
and like it can be in like so many different things,
and it just I kind of like it I like
it a lot. It's like a mix of like just
historical research on that and also like in terms of
(15:04):
just like like marketing for brands and like media just
like helping understand branding now and all that shit. So
it's good. Why NYU honestly like is my parents' dream,
like not to even I before like before skating, and
I honestly like i''m still like that, like just such
(15:25):
a nerd, like always like my parents like always credit
to them, and I think that's why I have the
work ethic I do in skating. They were always like
you like put me to work, like made me work
really hard, like in school, super strict parents growing up,
like no television, no phone until I was like fourteen
years old, which still young but like late compared to now,
(15:49):
Like I really got a phone because I was going
to high school that was not in Queens just like
super super strict, like you have to get always a'sian's school,
have to do well and honestly like they were wrong,
like it did me good. I'll never forget. I'll never
forget me calling them and like being like yo, I
(16:10):
got in here. And maybe that sounds like kind of
boof or whatever, But like I literally I did that
shit for them because I know how happy it made them.
Literally had my whole family in tears. I was just like, dude,
like I have to go here, I have to fall
through this. Like they've also just like sacrificed like so
so much for me, like before I was even like existed,
(16:33):
like moved here, came from like started nothing, had to
learn English, had to like do everything, like seeing how
much like my mom worked as a kid and my
dad worked, like doing like overnights and like all this
shit just to like have me and my siblings like
do well and like just pushing me like just huge
(16:55):
shout out to them because if like wasn't for them,
like I definitely would not have the word ethic. I
haven't like be able to do that. Like I can't.
I can't say what was easy at all, Like it
was gnarally like being in school and like doing well
in high school and then just doing the same in college.
But like that's just kind of why they're my reason
for sure.
Speaker 2 (17:15):
Okay, So you had no pressure in the household, growing
up a very low key environment, just so chill, super
no wonder skateboarding, no wonder, skateboarding is like your keeper.
I mean, because it's like such a great way to
It's a type of work ethic, but it's different, but
it's kind of like psychotic in the same way. It's
like hard work ethic because you have to be willing
to try something that you're dumb enough to keep trying
(17:37):
over and over and over again. There's tons of risk,
there's like such individual approach to it all, and then yeah,
it's just it makes sense that you show up for
it again and again when you have that type of
foundation behind you.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
So I get it.
Speaker 2 (17:53):
And also a great way to blow off pressure, like
when you are under that level of pressure skateboarding Sometimes
when I'm the most stressed out, that's the only way
I can kind of like you know, work it backwards
and like find relief.
Speaker 3 (18:04):
Stay with us.
Speaker 2 (18:05):
We'll be right back after this quick ad break. This
is starting to paint a bigger picture. I am curious, like,
while you're studying your marketing degree, Like, how has that
(18:26):
changed how you look at skateboarding.
Speaker 4 (18:28):
How's in terms of like marketing. I guess it's just
like understanding how like companies like promote things and things
like that, which like sometimes is applicable to skating for sure,
but also the thing is like skaters like like work
super differently, Like I feel like, you know the way
companies are run. I mean there's some like long standing companies,
(18:50):
like you know, the ones that last really long, Like
definitely they've done it for so long they know how
to run like a business. But like it's it's like
funny sometimes how skaters are in companies, which is not
a bad thing. I'm not dissing. It's just a little different.
It's just it's just different. Skating is a very like
different thing. I'm not like getting my degree to try
to like get into that with skating to keep it
(19:10):
a buck, Like I just want to keep it skater.
But I'm sure, like because you're in the industry, I'm
sure that you see it very very differently.
Speaker 2 (19:17):
Do you think skateboarding is kind of bad at marketing
to keep it a buck?
Speaker 4 (19:20):
Like I think I always say, And this is like
literally coming from a skater perspective, not even like a
school perspective, Like what makes a company really good is
like them putting out videos because that's like the backbone
of a company, and it makes skaters and people hyped,
like that is like the media, Like I know, everyone's
like Instagram and all that, and it's important because it's
(19:43):
just like little reminders I guess of what a company
is doing. So it reminds people when there's so much
influx of like everything all the time. But like, good
video is a good video. Timeless video is a timeless video,
and like you know, there are like some companies who
put out shit like that and it's like they can
(20:05):
go dormant for like god knows how long, but that
video is like always gonna be remembered and people are
always gonna be hyped on that. I make the time
to watch videos because I think it's it's really important
and if a crew or a bunch of people are
putting in that sort of time, it's like, you know,
it's it's valuable something I think that should be looked at.
(20:25):
Like the the Violent video, I don't know if it's
out yet, but the premiere happened and like I was
hyped up. The video is that long. It's a long video.
I was like, this is cool, like for a minute,
Like a lot of people didn't know if that video
was even gonna like happen because they because it's been
like three years I guess since the company started. But
like when I saw that videos, like damn, this is
(20:47):
like sick. They took three years to like make something
like this and then it happened and it's really cool.
And even like for my friends like JP, like he
made that video and like it took him three years
with everybody and took them a long time, but that
video is like awesome. So yeah, just stuff like that,
(21:07):
I guess. But also it's cool to see people. And
I was talking to my good friend Jake about this.
It's cool to see like also people just like put
out stuff too, like videos and stuff like just like whatever,
just like keeping it pushing and just like filming and
like getting out. And that's also cool too, like you
know how like Limousine kind of like sometimes I guess
(21:28):
now they're like saving up for the full length I think,
but like for maybe like a few years, they did
like drop every video drop, like video every drop, I
mean video, every drop, and it's like a few minutes.
It's like five six minutes, but like maybe sometimes a
little more or less. But it's cool because it's like
showing that they're still active and they're still going out
and doing stuff and so sometimes too, it doesn't have
(21:49):
to even be like the deepest thing ever. It could
just be like what's happening, And that's also just as
sick too, because it just shows that you're outside. I
am a bit tired of the nostalgia shit. I think
it's time to pack that up, to be honest, because
I think it's also discrediting not talking about myself or
my crew and nobody like not. But like, just in general,
(22:11):
there's so many young people who are trying right now
and getting at it, so many young people who deserve love,
Like I feel like I've been giving some given so
many blessings, like not talking about myself at all, like
just so many cool people, and like this nostalgia shit
is just like, dude, there are people doing this, Like
what are you talking about?
Speaker 3 (22:28):
Like?
Speaker 4 (22:29):
Also, though I do respect ogs and I think that
they have done a lot, and I love I love
that footage and I think it's like amazing and it
and that footage gets me just as hyped as new footage. Honestly,
I like rewatch old videos all the time. I think
it's incredible, So I'm not knocking that at all. But
just like the companies and the higher ups whatever, just
(22:51):
like it's like, dude, if you look, if you look,
you'll you'll find for whatever you look for. I always
say that, like, yeah, we don't. But I think also too,
so I think we're kind of getting out of that.
I don't want to like like jinx it too fast?
Speaker 3 (23:04):
Are we are?
Speaker 2 (23:05):
We?
Speaker 3 (23:06):
I'm a blat nostalgia thing.
Speaker 2 (23:07):
Like I'm with you on that take, because like it's
good to make sure you capture history bring it into
the future because it tells the story. Like to more
things forward, you got to look backwards. You need to
know what happened. You need to like be inspired by that,
so there's no knocking like you said, on everyone who
built the world that we love so much, And it's
good to be reminded about who those like skateboarders were.
(23:30):
It's often easy to forget, but you're missing the opportunity
on bringing up the future that inspires that next future.
And there's only so much on the payroll and limited spots,
and like you said, like it's really important that we
keep this thing young and keep it just like constantly
evolving and turning into something different. And when you're talking
(23:51):
about only the past, you're really doing none of the
work to get it to a different place. So I
definitely have that critique right now on the skate industry. Yeah,
I think it has a lot to do with if
you look at who's at the table and what age
range and where their point of view on skateboarding is.
So that's why it's kind of really curious, Like you're
young gun coming up in this whole thing. You see
(24:12):
the industry from a really different perspective. I invited you
on because I think you have more insight than I have.
Speaker 3 (24:17):
Like that's why I would.
Speaker 2 (24:19):
Yeah, because like you're like in the streets, like you literally.
Speaker 4 (24:23):
Like I'm definitely outside show up at all the premieres.
Speaker 2 (24:27):
You put in the time, you like put in the
reps to like be at the skate shops and keep
up with people, And I think what maybe you're not
taking inventory on is how much that's informing you and
skateboarding and trends.
Speaker 3 (24:41):
And like what's going on.
Speaker 2 (24:42):
So I was like really hyped to be like, all right,
you tell me what's up right now, you're actually like
serving New York skateboarding on its realist level where a
lot of people who make decisions about skateboarding. Are sitting
at a desk. They're not in the streets. They are
not living and feeling it. Like are they skateboarders through
and through? Yes, But those like little insights that only
(25:03):
come from when you're pushing every day through New York.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
That's where creativity can get sparked.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
And so much of the early industry of skateboarding was
in that space and it's just gotten further away from it.
Speaker 4 (25:15):
There are spots that exist for anybody, like especially in
New York. Like I speak to my friends, so like, oh,
how do you like get outside or whatever, Like how
do you find these spots? Like like yes, watch you
can watch these videos where like all these guys are
skating all these different things and that's brawling and that's cool,
But there are like spots that you can skate, like
that everyone could skate, and not just in New York,
but every work because I skate everywhere anywhere I go, Like,
(25:36):
you can find something that works for you. And like
also it's like shout out to also my best friend
of them again, like we film this video on the corner,
which is like a VX video, and he like really
took the time and patience with me and like filmed
the part that like worked with my trick selection while
also like pushing me to do new things and get
better and just do stuff that was like NBD and
(25:57):
things like that. And I like I want to tell
every you know, fem whatever that's like thinking about it
because I've had so many people. I've had this conversation
with a bunch of people. You just got to go
out and like fucking try it, like for yourself, because
in the beginning, I was just like, damn, like can
I even do this? Is this even like I feel
like it just seems so intimidating for me in the beginning,
And it's still you just like just going and just
(26:20):
like trying and like being patient with yourself and like
finding things at work. Just in terms of like skating
like as like a thing.
Speaker 3 (26:27):
How did you discover all that?
Speaker 2 (26:29):
And like what are your tips into finding spots that
work for you as a skateboarder and your abilities?
Speaker 4 (26:35):
I think just like going out and like exploring a lot,
like every day I'm out or and I'm like just
having kind of like an eye out for like whatever.
I'm like always on the bike and just like in
different spots of the city and like just looking like
watching videos too in New York, like seeing things like oh,
(26:56):
and then you screenshot and you ask your friend where
is this? And then like you go and check out
the spot and maybe that's like not a sick but
then you go and like on your way biking there
you find like a bunch of other spots. You're like, oh,
this is like really cool. So I guess it's just
like always kind of like I always joke with my
friends like have your third eye open always, like just
really like always, never like turn that off. Like that's
(27:17):
just like the reality, to be honest, because once again,
like what you look for, you'll find. Do gate keep spots, dude,
I'm home to say it, but yeah, okay, okay, okay,
but it depends. But it also depends, like it depends
what the spot is, Like if something's out on the
internet already and everybody I know mad peads have skated
(27:37):
it and I'm just like, who am I? Also depends
who's asking If another girl's asking me for spots. I
don't really gay keep that because I'm like, who am I?
I'm not about to do that. That's crazy. I'm putting
us all behind if we do that. But if I'm
like making something and I'm going out of my way
to make a spot and then a lot of people
are asking me for it, and you know, you know
(27:58):
how hard it is to get an MBD New York astually,
that shit is fucking hard. So yeah, I can't say
I give it away all the time. But but honestly,
I'm not the worst gatekeeper because I've had mad people
give me pins and I've been better off because of it.
So I also keep that in mind. I believe in
spot equity, but also just like it really depends the
spot to be honest.
Speaker 3 (28:17):
Spot equity and who's asking and who's asking?
Speaker 2 (28:21):
Real talk, What are some of the dream tricks that
you are working on or like, is there one that
you're like, I just I'm chasing that, dude.
Speaker 4 (28:30):
Yes, I'm like feeding feeding for a good back tail.
I kept I kept saying this since March's back tail Spring.
I keep saying that all my friends are like its
back tail spring. I like started that off, like I
can do them on like quarter pipes, like slide them
a little, but I'm trying to get them gun on
a ledge. I have like this gnarly ankle injury earlier
this year that had me out for a minute, and
(28:51):
like trying that trick and like any sort of like
back foot like Odie trick, like made my ankle tweak
for so long and like, but now it's like better.
It's still aches when I try shit like that, but
it's like something that I'm just gonna have to keep
on pushing to stretch that muscle.
Speaker 3 (29:09):
But I can kind of.
Speaker 4 (29:10):
I just don't how to do them on curves a
little bit I learned backlip. I'm starting to like kind
of get decent Backsmiths, but like backtail spring, dude, Like
I've been saying that this whole time. I like, the
day I get to go back tail, I'm never gonna
let it go. Like that's definitely I'm chasing that.
Speaker 3 (29:28):
The back tail.
Speaker 2 (29:30):
Every skater out there knows how hard that is to
make yours. So I am sending you strength in this journey.
Speaker 4 (29:36):
Dude, please thank you. I always tell my friends, I'm like,
it's a marathon, not a sprint. So it's like sometimes
I get like super frustrated and I just can't get
into them. In other days it just works better. But
it's like such a feel good trick. The minute you
do it, it's like you're just chasing the next one.
You just want to do like good the next time.
I had like a minute, like maybe two years ago
(29:58):
where I could do them pretty well, and then I
just like I broke my wrists and then I just
like was off of all that and then I hurt
my ankle and no excuses though, we're back. It's back
feel Springer're back.
Speaker 3 (30:10):
It's backtail summer.
Speaker 4 (30:11):
It's back till summer could move seasons.
Speaker 3 (30:13):
It's backtail summer right now.
Speaker 4 (30:15):
Technically I haven't until June twenty first, but like, yeah,
it's backtail summer too for sure.
Speaker 3 (30:20):
Okay, well, we'll need the update report on that. We'll
be tuning in.
Speaker 4 (30:24):
I'm holding myself accountable.
Speaker 3 (30:26):
Good we are too.
Speaker 2 (30:27):
The entire internet now is as well.
Speaker 3 (30:31):
Okay, what are you working on right now?
Speaker 4 (30:33):
A bunch of stuff with my friends, Like so many
people are outside in the summer. JP is making a
new video, working on getting clips for that, and like
just filming a part for that. My friend Rody who
made a really cool video earlier this year, he's making
another one hopefully. Just I'll have some stuff out by
the end of the end of year, which I'd be
(30:55):
stoked on.
Speaker 2 (30:55):
You are on Good Luck with That, which is a
podcast about skateboarding. But we do love to ask people,
what do you need some luck with this week?
Speaker 3 (31:02):
I feel like I already know your answer, but do tell.
Speaker 4 (31:07):
Just get get fuddy, give me footy, just get some
good clips this week that I'd be stoked on that.
Speaker 3 (31:14):
No Nicks shout out in that one.
Speaker 4 (31:15):
Okay, all right, we'll just wait wait, wait, wait, wait,
wait when you to scrap that? Because because we were
just end up talking about clips and stuff like that
so much, it just like went on the back burner. Wait, wait,
can we scrap that and repeat it?
Speaker 3 (31:28):
Can I have? Like, I don't know that you're much
of a Knicks fan after all. Dude, uh.
Speaker 4 (31:35):
You can't even see but that's Jayalen Brunson anyways. Anyways,
But yeah, I definitely need luck with the Knicks winning
and becoming the NBA champions and getting this chip. That's
definitely what I would need some luck with. Game one
is today, need some luck for that Nixon four fuck
(31:55):
it third sweep? Who cares?
Speaker 3 (31:59):
Who cares?
Speaker 2 (32:00):
Dude, anything is possible. Okay, that and some back and
back tales of summer.
Speaker 4 (32:04):
Please, I'd love that. I'd love that.
Speaker 2 (32:06):
Okay, well, where can all of our listeners find you?
Where are you on the internet?
Speaker 4 (32:11):
On Instagram? My Instagram is Alisa Martini Official. And then
there's footage of me on YouTube. If you want to
see any clips or stuff like that, probably search up
my name.
Speaker 3 (32:23):
But yeah, hell yeah.
Speaker 2 (32:26):
Well it's been super fun chatting with you. We'll see
how the Knicks do. We didn't get to talk about
the Liberty. That's my team. I know the Knicks incredible,
but you know that season's just getting going and last
year they were they're any champs. So you are lucky
that you have such access to everything. I mean, what
(32:47):
doesn't New York have all Right, listeners, write us like subscribe,
you can hit us on Instagram at at good Luck Pod.
We'd love to hear from you every time. I'm waiting
to hear and we'll be here next week, so tune
back in.
Speaker 1 (33:03):
Good Luck with That is an iHeart women's sports production
and partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment.
Speaker 5 (33:09):
We are your hosts Ashley Rayfeld, Nora Bascnzlos, Alex White,
and Mimi nu Our Executive producer is Jesse Katz, supervising
producer Tari Harrison, video producer Daniel Goodman, and video production
by School of Humans.
Speaker 4 (33:24):
This podcast was created by Ashley Rayfeld.
Speaker 5 (33:26):
Listen to Good Luck with That, a skateboarding podcast, on
the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Good Luck with That is an iheartwomen's sports production in
partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
What's up, everyone, Welcome back to good Luck with That,
a podcast about skateboarding.
Speaker 3 (00:15):
I'm your host, Ashley Raefeld.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Today we've got Alisa Martini joining us all the way
in from New York, and we do have to acknowledge
tonight it's a big night. It's Game one Nicks versus Spurs,
and as you are a devout Nix loyalist, I am
going to be mindful of your time so I can
get you off this call into that game.
Speaker 3 (00:34):
Should we even be having this call right now?
Speaker 4 (00:38):
Honestly, this is no. This is like I'm in the
best mood. This is like a perfect time to have
the call, Like like we're in the finals. Every day
I've just been like overjoyed plus skating. It's just I've
been This is a perfect time. So you're a born
and raised queen skater. You ride for Bronze Casey DC
is still, in my opinion, one of your shops that
(00:59):
you write for. You're an NYU marketing student, Like I said,
devout Knicks fan. I feel like you're at every skate
session premiere event and kind of all the good corners
of skateboarding right now, which which I want to know
how you're doing all of that, but yeah, what does
your life look like this week.
Speaker 3 (01:17):
And what's taking up all the brain space dude?
Speaker 4 (01:19):
Honestly, yeah, I mean I try to be active as
much as I can and be outside. I just came
out of finals, so that was like a super gnarly
time and one of my really good friends JP Blair,
like we were working on finishing this video and I
was trying to get some clips for it. So between
that and like finishing junior year, all I got always
(01:40):
last semester pretty stoked. The Nicks are in finals, so
it's just like, honestly, that's such a big part of
my life, just me and my friends just being so
excited for that and just being in that because it's
like such a historic moment in history and this is
the first time in my life that I'm seeing this,
and for many of my friends too, because twenty seven
(02:00):
years since the last time we were even in the finals.
So I'm just we're just really excited to like be
in this and be seeing this. I just recently moved
to so every day I've been like spending like a
couple hours like building some shit in the morning for
my apartment. Like I just finished building like this new
rack with this like countertop thing. I'm about to build
(02:24):
a dresser next week. Wish me luck. But yeah, that's
like basically the main things taking up most of my
time before.
Speaker 2 (02:30):
We kind of crack into a lot of the past
and getting people up dispute about who you are and
all that.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
You bring to skateboarding.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
I kind of want to establish where you stand on
some very important issues. Yeah, well it's time for get
a grip, and it's a quick rapid fire just so
we can get a little insight into your brain and
how things work up there. If Nicks win the finals
or you get a bronze board tomorrow, which one would
you choose.
Speaker 4 (02:56):
Nicks won the finals?
Speaker 3 (02:58):
That's not even a question really. Overgoing pro, you're all in.
Speaker 4 (03:03):
Well, like would I never go pro? Or like go
pro tomorrow?
Speaker 3 (03:06):
Never go pro?
Speaker 4 (03:10):
Dude, I don't know.
Speaker 3 (03:13):
How much do you love to do?
Speaker 4 (03:14):
That's so fucked to say, but like I don't know,
because also it's like what does going pro even mean?
Like not saying it's like a bad thing or it
doesn't mean anything, but that's like not the end. It
will be all in skating. And if the Knicks won
the finals, like like who knows when they're gonna even
like get this far again, I don't know, dude, Nicks
(03:34):
won the finals, I don't care, I don't care. Fuck
it fuck it's right. That's not even that crazy to
say because it doesn't. It won't change my skating at all.
It's just a board. The Knicks are gonna win the finals.
Best New York skater like influenced me the most, Sean
Powers influenced me the most, and rob Gunyan rob Gunyan
(04:00):
shout out backside flipped flushing six, gnarliest thing ever? What's
the best burrow queens all day?
Speaker 3 (04:10):
Which borrow talks the most shit?
Speaker 4 (04:12):
Probably like maybe queens in like Brooklyn, but everyone talks shit,
like if you're from New York, you talk so much
like dude, and it's but it's not like gnarl, it's
just all love, you know. It's like everyone just talks
shit to talk shit. Doesn't even like me anything.
Speaker 3 (04:26):
Okay, If we had to sacrifice a burrow, which one's going.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
Sotoun island out most annoying New York tourist behavior.
Speaker 4 (04:33):
I think just like not having any spatial awareness, probably
like just stopping in the middle of the street when
things are going on. I do love tourists though, because
it makes like it makes me like appreciate New York more,
like Damn, you're walking on the subway and you're taking
photos at the subway and I'm just like walking here, like, Yo,
this smells like shit and you're just out here like
appreciating it and taking photos. So it's kind of sick.
(04:55):
But when people have no spatial awareness, I hate that.
I'm like, yo, pack it one trick that always looks good.
Nice gnolly heel.
Speaker 3 (05:04):
What's the last part you watched twice?
Speaker 4 (05:06):
Last part I watched twice Jake Baldini's part in what
did You Expect? Skate brand that's hot right now, Quasi
shout out.
Speaker 3 (05:15):
Okay, plane ticket tomorrow. Where are you going.
Speaker 4 (05:18):
Dude, I'm going to San Antonio to go see this
game two if I get that's where the NIXT game
is happening right now. It's away game.
Speaker 2 (05:26):
San Antonio, which actually there's pretty good skateboarding there, so
you could double dip on this.
Speaker 3 (05:31):
I'd love to kind.
Speaker 2 (05:32):
Of just get people up to speed with who you
are and a little bit about your story.
Speaker 3 (05:38):
So tell me about like where you came from.
Speaker 4 (05:40):
Yeah, I'm from Queens, New York. My parents are Albanian.
Moved here in the late nineties kind of after my
parents like grew up in like you know, the normally
like regime over there, and then we're kind of like
refugees from like Warren stuff like that. I came here
(06:03):
and yeah, I just had me a couple of years
later when raised them from wood Haven and then I
moved to Fresh Meadows like when I was pretty young,
always in Queens, And yeah, I started skating pretty late,
like when I was like fifteen. I picked it up
super late, just like for fun, something to do oh
(06:23):
with my friends, and then it just kind of like
went on from there.
Speaker 2 (06:27):
When did your parents like kind of realized that skateboarding
wasn't a phase and did they ever have like a
very like Albanian response to it?
Speaker 4 (06:36):
Yeah, like it was. I remember it was like the
summer of like when I was supposed to take like
my SATs, Like I was supposed to take my first
one like that September or something, and I was going
out to skate every single day like after my sat
like classes and stuff like that, and I would go
to Forest Park shout out forest Park. And one of
(06:59):
the and I came back I taking some practice tests.
And I came back with a practice test and I
did not get a good score. And I was showing
this to my mom, and I was like, I'm trying
my hardest, Like is I'm not like this test is
like harder for me to get a better score right now?
And she was just like she was like, well, if
you weren't skating every day, like and you'd be at
home more like you'd get better you do you get
(07:20):
a better score? And I was just like and I
was like, dude, like what this has like nothing to
do with this, like and and and she was like,
what are you even like trying to do here? Like
she like in the beginning, she wasn't bummed because she
was like, oh, she's being outside and she's exercising, like
this is time she thought of it, but like and
she was like, what are you even trying to do
with this? And I was like, I don't know, I'm
(07:40):
just trying to like skate like a lot, like people
you know actually live like this, You know, she's like,
what are you talking about? Like people like she couldn't
even like fathom that people like have pro careers and
like live off of skating, which is valid, Like I
didn't even know that either until I started skating. But
(08:01):
she was just like it was the funniest thing. She
was like what, Like she was so confused. But you know,
a couple like years later, like once I got on
KCDC at the time, and then like that same month,
like Volcom sent me a box and then I got
a Van's box. She was like what, Like she was
so confused, but she was hyped. She was like this
is like really cool, Like I'm I'm glad you're doing this.
(08:24):
And then maybe like a I think like a year
or two later, like once maybe a year later, once
I got like announced like on Bronze and they posted
me and stuff like that, and I just told her
like how much all that meant to me and everything.
She was like all right, like these people are being
really good to you, they're taking care of you, like
you seem to be really happy doing this. Just do
(08:45):
what you need to do. But she was always just
like to even now, she's like, please stay in school,
like I need you, like graduate school, which is something
also I really want to do for them and for
myself because like like you said, first gen here and
they always wanted me to have this opportunity. So and
it's been good. I've been able to balance it pretty well.
Speaker 3 (09:07):
Why do one when you can have both?
Speaker 2 (09:08):
You know? True, We'll be right back with the Lisa
Martini right after this ad break.
Speaker 3 (09:24):
What in your mind like made it stick?
Speaker 2 (09:26):
Like, I don't know, you're fifteen, you're skating, There's so
many other interests going on, and somehow you like stayed
loyal to skateboarding in the pursuit of it, Like how
did that come about?
Speaker 4 (09:37):
Dude? I don't even know, Like not even to be corny,
but like I just felt like skating like filled in
every single like whole or problem like in my life,
Like not even to even be just like corny about it,
Like and if that's how it is, I'll be that.
I'll be that any day. I had so many friends
out of nowhere from skating that are like still my
(09:58):
friends to this day, like a real friends, you know,
Like skaters are like artists and like have so much
other cool shit going on, and like that's the way
I am too, Like I went to art school, I've
done art my whole life, and like, I don't know,
there's just something also skating. It's like you can never
really be like perfect at skating, Like nobody's ever can
(10:19):
can really be like that at skating, Like there's always
like more like the pursuit like never ends. And there's
also kind of something about that chase or it's just
like I'll never be bored, Like I'm always gonna like
there's always something I'm gonna need to get better at.
There's always something like even if I know how to
do a trick, well, it's like can you do it
at this spot? Or like you know, there's always something
harder you can get something at, and it's just like
(10:40):
continuing to like you know, just kind of like get better.
And also just like I remember I started skating because
I literally like in my mind, I was like I
just felt like like just to be like so honest,
I just like at the time, I was just like
such a nerd and I just like was such like
a homebody and shit, and I was just like I
feel like I'd be so much cooler if I just
(11:00):
like learned how to skateboard just like try like kickflip.
I've like if I could kickflip, I was like, dude,
I'll be like the coolest girl in the world. Like
I feel so cool, and like now that I'm like
so in it, it's like, of course I feel cool,
but it's not even about that. It's like it built
so much confidence inside me where I was just like, dude,
I was sick all along, like I just had to
like stay true to myself and like do my thing
(11:21):
and like yeah, just like it just means like so
much to me. I'm so grateful for like the community
I've made, for the opportunities, like all this stuff that's
going on. I'm like, dude, I never expected any of that,
Like Bronze like come on, Like I never expected any
of that. Like I watched like It's Time and I
was just like, well, these are just like the coolest
(11:43):
people ever and they're from Queens, Like this is so cool,
Like hopefully I can be this good. But never did
I even think I would be. These people would be
like my closest friends and like my crew and like
be the people to show me the way. It's just
like what like skateboarding gave me these experiences.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
It's cool that skateboarding like is just like make it
your own, do it yourself, and it's like high reward
and like I said, you've like just been given this
like crazy community because of it.
Speaker 4 (12:11):
I was just so happy I found it as like
a hobby. I'm like, I'm just gonna do this for
the rest of my life. I love skateboarding more than
I did the day before, Like and I sometimes I
can't even believe that's even possible. Like I like it
to this day, Like it makes me like loose sleep
that night. I just get so fucking excited to skateboard,
and it makes it's like I feel like the same
as like when I first started. Obviously I have like
(12:34):
my moments of just like not feeling as confident and
like whatever, just based on like filming and just the
way the journey is. I'm so happy I found it
because especially like being a kid from here, Like dude,
there's not many kids from New York that skateboard. That's
not like a big thing, you know, Like it's like
some people pick it up here and there, but there's
like not many New York City born and raised. So
(12:55):
it's like especially like girls, dude, like so like little
to know and and that's just like in my only
in my generation. I've asked around and I've been like
who else, Like obviously there's like yes, but she's from Hawaii,
you know, and she left her mark in New York.
I'm giving her that, but like, there really hasn't been
any girl from New York that has really stuck to
(13:15):
and has filmed a lot and done that.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
So you have goals in New York.
Speaker 2 (13:20):
I am ready to see more parts from you as
a born and raised like New Yorker.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
I think that is a really interesting point that you
brought up.
Speaker 4 (13:27):
I've really asked, like, you know, like I've I don't
want to like be like, oh I'm the first, Like
I've genuinely like especially like I'm asked to all the
Browns people and like whoever, because they've been around for
a long time, and like, yeah, that's what they said.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
I do want to kind of go go back into
like you are managing going to school as a full
time student and not at like a low key school.
Speaker 3 (13:47):
You're not going to like a city college.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
You're going to NYU right now off the back of
an art degree. You're super talented artists. I've seen your work,
so that's a cool foundation. And now you're studying marketing
and media as is that right?
Speaker 4 (14:01):
Yeah. I went to Labardia High School, which is a
public art school in New York, and I commuted like
an hour thirty to go to school, so I woke
up aut like five thirty every morning and like just
had such long days and so I just kind of
like put in so much time for that art degree.
I got that degree, and I was just like, I
don't want to do art anymore. In college, Like I'm
(14:22):
glad I still found my way and I'm making paintings
and stuff, and that's like literally just based on the
hype of like me being with my friends and like
capturing cool photos and stuff, which on hyped I still
have as a hobby. But I was just like, I
was like no, So I was like in the first year,
I just went undecided, just only for the first year
because I was like, I need to figure out what
(14:43):
I'm going to do. But then media and marketing just
made sense because I just feel like it's super applicable
and like it can be in like so many different things,
and it just I kind of like it I like
it a lot. It's like a mix of like just
historical research on that and also like in terms of
(15:04):
just like like marketing for brands and like media just
like helping understand branding now and all that shit. So
it's good. Why NYU honestly like is my parents' dream,
like not to even I before like before skating, and
I honestly like i''m still like that, like just such
(15:25):
a nerd, like always like my parents like always credit
to them, and I think that's why I have the
work ethic I do in skating. They were always like
you like put me to work, like made me work
really hard, like in school, super strict parents growing up,
like no television, no phone until I was like fourteen
years old, which still young but like late compared to now,
(15:49):
Like I really got a phone because I was going
to high school that was not in Queens just like
super super strict, like you have to get always a'sian's school,
have to do well and honestly like they were wrong,
like it did me good. I'll never forget. I'll never
forget me calling them and like being like yo, I
(16:10):
got in here. And maybe that sounds like kind of
boof or whatever, But like I literally I did that
shit for them because I know how happy it made them.
Literally had my whole family in tears. I was just like, dude,
like I have to go here, I have to fall
through this. Like they've also just like sacrificed like so
so much for me, like before I was even like existed,
(16:33):
like moved here, came from like started nothing, had to
learn English, had to like do everything, like seeing how
much like my mom worked as a kid and my
dad worked, like doing like overnights and like all this
shit just to like have me and my siblings like
do well and like just pushing me like just huge
(16:55):
shout out to them because if like wasn't for them,
like I definitely would not have the word ethic. I
haven't like be able to do that. Like I can't.
I can't say what was easy at all, Like it
was gnarally like being in school and like doing well
in high school and then just doing the same in college.
But like that's just kind of why they're my reason
for sure.
Speaker 2 (17:15):
Okay, So you had no pressure in the household, growing
up a very low key environment, just so chill, super
no wonder skateboarding, no wonder, skateboarding is like your keeper.
I mean, because it's like such a great way to
It's a type of work ethic, but it's different, but
it's kind of like psychotic in the same way. It's
like hard work ethic because you have to be willing
to try something that you're dumb enough to keep trying
(17:37):
over and over and over again. There's tons of risk,
there's like such individual approach to it all, and then yeah,
it's just it makes sense that you show up for
it again and again when you have that type of
foundation behind you.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
So I get it.
Speaker 2 (17:53):
And also a great way to blow off pressure, like
when you are under that level of pressure skateboarding Sometimes
when I'm the most stressed out, that's the only way
I can kind of like you know, work it backwards
and like find relief.
Speaker 3 (18:04):
Stay with us.
Speaker 2 (18:05):
We'll be right back after this quick ad break. This
is starting to paint a bigger picture. I am curious, like,
while you're studying your marketing degree, Like, how has that
(18:26):
changed how you look at skateboarding.
Speaker 4 (18:28):
How's in terms of like marketing. I guess it's just
like understanding how like companies like promote things and things
like that, which like sometimes is applicable to skating for sure,
but also the thing is like skaters like like work
super differently, Like I feel like, you know the way
companies are run. I mean there's some like long standing companies,
(18:50):
like you know, the ones that last really long, Like
definitely they've done it for so long they know how
to run like a business. But like it's it's like
funny sometimes how skaters are in companies, which is not
a bad thing. I'm not dissing. It's just a little different.
It's just it's just different. Skating is a very like
different thing. I'm not like getting my degree to try
to like get into that with skating to keep it
(19:10):
a buck, Like I just want to keep it skater.
But I'm sure, like because you're in the industry, I'm
sure that you see it very very differently.
Speaker 2 (19:17):
Do you think skateboarding is kind of bad at marketing
to keep it a buck?
Speaker 4 (19:20):
Like I think I always say, And this is like
literally coming from a skater perspective, not even like a
school perspective, Like what makes a company really good is
like them putting out videos because that's like the backbone
of a company, and it makes skaters and people hyped,
like that is like the media, Like I know, everyone's
like Instagram and all that, and it's important because it's
(19:43):
just like little reminders I guess of what a company
is doing. So it reminds people when there's so much
influx of like everything all the time. But like, good
video is a good video. Timeless video is a timeless video,
and like you know, there are like some companies who
put out shit like that and it's like they can
(20:05):
go dormant for like god knows how long, but that
video is like always gonna be remembered and people are
always gonna be hyped on that. I make the time
to watch videos because I think it's it's really important
and if a crew or a bunch of people are
putting in that sort of time, it's like, you know,
it's it's valuable something I think that should be looked at.
(20:25):
Like the the Violent video, I don't know if it's
out yet, but the premiere happened and like I was
hyped up. The video is that long. It's a long video.
I was like, this is cool, like for a minute,
Like a lot of people didn't know if that video
was even gonna like happen because they because it's been
like three years I guess since the company started. But
like when I saw that videos, like damn, this is
(20:47):
like sick. They took three years to like make something
like this and then it happened and it's really cool.
And even like for my friends like JP, like he
made that video and like it took him three years
with everybody and took them a long time, but that
video is like awesome. So yeah, just stuff like that,
(21:07):
I guess. But also it's cool to see people. And
I was talking to my good friend Jake about this.
It's cool to see like also people just like put
out stuff too, like videos and stuff like just like whatever,
just like keeping it pushing and just like filming and
like getting out. And that's also cool too, like you
know how like Limousine kind of like sometimes I guess
(21:28):
now they're like saving up for the full length I think,
but like for maybe like a few years, they did
like drop every video drop, like video every drop, I
mean video, every drop, and it's like a few minutes.
It's like five six minutes, but like maybe sometimes a
little more or less. But it's cool because it's like
showing that they're still active and they're still going out
and doing stuff and so sometimes too, it doesn't have
(21:49):
to even be like the deepest thing ever. It could
just be like what's happening, And that's also just as
sick too, because it just shows that you're outside. I
am a bit tired of the nostalgia shit. I think
it's time to pack that up, to be honest, because
I think it's also discrediting not talking about myself or
my crew and nobody like not. But like, just in general,
(22:11):
there's so many young people who are trying right now
and getting at it, so many young people who deserve love,
Like I feel like I've been giving some given so
many blessings, like not talking about myself at all, like
just so many cool people, and like this nostalgia shit
is just like, dude, there are people doing this, Like
what are you talking about?
Speaker 3 (22:28):
Like?
Speaker 4 (22:29):
Also, though I do respect ogs and I think that
they have done a lot, and I love I love
that footage and I think it's like amazing and it
and that footage gets me just as hyped as new footage. Honestly,
I like rewatch old videos all the time. I think
it's incredible, So I'm not knocking that at all. But
just like the companies and the higher ups whatever, just
(22:51):
like it's like, dude, if you look, if you look,
you'll you'll find for whatever you look for. I always
say that, like, yeah, we don't. But I think also too,
so I think we're kind of getting out of that.
I don't want to like like jinx it too fast?
Speaker 3 (23:04):
Are we are?
Speaker 2 (23:05):
We?
Speaker 3 (23:06):
I'm a blat nostalgia thing.
Speaker 2 (23:07):
Like I'm with you on that take, because like it's
good to make sure you capture history bring it into
the future because it tells the story. Like to more
things forward, you got to look backwards. You need to
know what happened. You need to like be inspired by that,
so there's no knocking like you said, on everyone who
built the world that we love so much, And it's
good to be reminded about who those like skateboarders were.
(23:30):
It's often easy to forget, but you're missing the opportunity
on bringing up the future that inspires that next future.
And there's only so much on the payroll and limited spots,
and like you said, like it's really important that we
keep this thing young and keep it just like constantly
evolving and turning into something different. And when you're talking
(23:51):
about only the past, you're really doing none of the
work to get it to a different place. So I
definitely have that critique right now on the skate industry. Yeah,
I think it has a lot to do with if
you look at who's at the table and what age
range and where their point of view on skateboarding is.
So that's why it's kind of really curious, Like you're
young gun coming up in this whole thing. You see
(24:12):
the industry from a really different perspective. I invited you
on because I think you have more insight than I have.
Speaker 3 (24:17):
Like that's why I would.
Speaker 2 (24:19):
Yeah, because like you're like in the streets, like you literally.
Speaker 4 (24:23):
Like I'm definitely outside show up at all the premieres.
Speaker 2 (24:27):
You put in the time, you like put in the
reps to like be at the skate shops and keep
up with people, And I think what maybe you're not
taking inventory on is how much that's informing you and
skateboarding and trends.
Speaker 3 (24:41):
And like what's going on.
Speaker 2 (24:42):
So I was like really hyped to be like, all right,
you tell me what's up right now, you're actually like
serving New York skateboarding on its realist level where a
lot of people who make decisions about skateboarding. Are sitting
at a desk. They're not in the streets. They are
not living and feeling it. Like are they skateboarders through
and through? Yes, But those like little insights that only
(25:03):
come from when you're pushing every day through New York.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
That's where creativity can get sparked.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
And so much of the early industry of skateboarding was
in that space and it's just gotten further away from it.
Speaker 4 (25:15):
There are spots that exist for anybody, like especially in
New York. Like I speak to my friends, so like, oh,
how do you like get outside or whatever, Like how
do you find these spots? Like like yes, watch you
can watch these videos where like all these guys are
skating all these different things and that's brawling and that's cool,
But there are like spots that you can skate, like
that everyone could skate, and not just in New York,
but every work because I skate everywhere anywhere I go, Like,
(25:36):
you can find something that works for you. And like
also it's like shout out to also my best friend
of them again, like we film this video on the corner,
which is like a VX video, and he like really
took the time and patience with me and like filmed
the part that like worked with my trick selection while
also like pushing me to do new things and get
better and just do stuff that was like NBD and
(25:57):
things like that. And I like I want to tell
every you know, fem whatever that's like thinking about it
because I've had so many people. I've had this conversation
with a bunch of people. You just got to go
out and like fucking try it, like for yourself, because
in the beginning, I was just like, damn, like can
I even do this? Is this even like I feel
like it just seems so intimidating for me in the beginning,
And it's still you just like just going and just
(26:20):
like trying and like being patient with yourself and like
finding things at work. Just in terms of like skating
like as like a thing.
Speaker 3 (26:27):
How did you discover all that?
Speaker 2 (26:29):
And like what are your tips into finding spots that
work for you as a skateboarder and your abilities?
Speaker 4 (26:35):
I think just like going out and like exploring a lot,
like every day I'm out or and I'm like just
having kind of like an eye out for like whatever.
I'm like always on the bike and just like in
different spots of the city and like just looking like
watching videos too in New York, like seeing things like oh,
(26:56):
and then you screenshot and you ask your friend where
is this? And then like you go and check out
the spot and maybe that's like not a sick but
then you go and like on your way biking there
you find like a bunch of other spots. You're like, oh,
this is like really cool. So I guess it's just
like always kind of like I always joke with my
friends like have your third eye open always, like just
really like always, never like turn that off. Like that's
(27:17):
just like the reality, to be honest, because once again,
like what you look for, you'll find. Do gate keep spots, dude,
I'm home to say it, but yeah, okay, okay, okay,
but it depends. But it also depends, like it depends
what the spot is, Like if something's out on the
internet already and everybody I know mad peads have skated
(27:37):
it and I'm just like, who am I? Also depends
who's asking If another girl's asking me for spots. I
don't really gay keep that because I'm like, who am I?
I'm not about to do that. That's crazy. I'm putting
us all behind if we do that. But if I'm
like making something and I'm going out of my way
to make a spot and then a lot of people
are asking me for it, and you know, you know
(27:58):
how hard it is to get an MBD New York astually,
that shit is fucking hard. So yeah, I can't say
I give it away all the time. But but honestly,
I'm not the worst gatekeeper because I've had mad people
give me pins and I've been better off because of it.
So I also keep that in mind. I believe in
spot equity, but also just like it really depends the
spot to be honest.
Speaker 3 (28:17):
Spot equity and who's asking and who's asking?
Speaker 2 (28:21):
Real talk, What are some of the dream tricks that
you are working on or like, is there one that
you're like, I just I'm chasing that, dude.
Speaker 4 (28:30):
Yes, I'm like feeding feeding for a good back tail.
I kept I kept saying this since March's back tail Spring.
I keep saying that all my friends are like its
back tail spring. I like started that off, like I
can do them on like quarter pipes, like slide them
a little, but I'm trying to get them gun on
a ledge. I have like this gnarly ankle injury earlier
this year that had me out for a minute, and
(28:51):
like trying that trick and like any sort of like
back foot like Odie trick, like made my ankle tweak
for so long and like, but now it's like better.
It's still aches when I try shit like that, but
it's like something that I'm just gonna have to keep
on pushing to stretch that muscle.
Speaker 3 (29:09):
But I can kind of.
Speaker 4 (29:10):
I just don't how to do them on curves a
little bit I learned backlip. I'm starting to like kind
of get decent Backsmiths, but like backtail spring, dude, Like
I've been saying that this whole time. I like, the
day I get to go back tail, I'm never gonna
let it go. Like that's definitely I'm chasing that.
Speaker 3 (29:28):
The back tail.
Speaker 2 (29:30):
Every skater out there knows how hard that is to
make yours. So I am sending you strength in this journey.
Speaker 4 (29:36):
Dude, please thank you. I always tell my friends, I'm like,
it's a marathon, not a sprint. So it's like sometimes
I get like super frustrated and I just can't get
into them. In other days it just works better. But
it's like such a feel good trick. The minute you
do it, it's like you're just chasing the next one.
You just want to do like good the next time.
I had like a minute, like maybe two years ago
(29:58):
where I could do them pretty well, and then I
just like I broke my wrists and then I just
like was off of all that and then I hurt
my ankle and no excuses though, we're back. It's back
feel Springer're back.
Speaker 3 (30:10):
It's backtail summer.
Speaker 4 (30:11):
It's back till summer could move seasons.
Speaker 3 (30:13):
It's backtail summer right now.
Speaker 4 (30:15):
Technically I haven't until June twenty first, but like, yeah,
it's backtail summer too for sure.
Speaker 3 (30:20):
Okay, well, we'll need the update report on that. We'll
be tuning in.
Speaker 4 (30:24):
I'm holding myself accountable.
Speaker 3 (30:26):
Good we are too.
Speaker 2 (30:27):
The entire internet now is as well.
Speaker 3 (30:31):
Okay, what are you working on right now?
Speaker 4 (30:33):
A bunch of stuff with my friends, Like so many
people are outside in the summer. JP is making a
new video, working on getting clips for that, and like
just filming a part for that. My friend Rody who
made a really cool video earlier this year, he's making
another one hopefully. Just I'll have some stuff out by
the end of the end of year, which I'd be
(30:55):
stoked on.
Speaker 2 (30:55):
You are on Good Luck with That, which is a
podcast about skateboarding. But we do love to ask people,
what do you need some luck with this week?
Speaker 3 (31:02):
I feel like I already know your answer, but do tell.
Speaker 4 (31:07):
Just get get fuddy, give me footy, just get some
good clips this week that I'd be stoked on that.
Speaker 3 (31:14):
No Nicks shout out in that one.
Speaker 4 (31:15):
Okay, all right, we'll just wait wait, wait, wait, wait,
wait when you to scrap that? Because because we were
just end up talking about clips and stuff like that
so much, it just like went on the back burner. Wait, wait,
can we scrap that and repeat it?
Speaker 3 (31:28):
Can I have? Like, I don't know that you're much
of a Knicks fan after all. Dude, uh.
Speaker 4 (31:35):
You can't even see but that's Jayalen Brunson anyways. Anyways,
But yeah, I definitely need luck with the Knicks winning
and becoming the NBA champions and getting this chip. That's
definitely what I would need some luck with. Game one
is today, need some luck for that Nixon four fuck
(31:55):
it third sweep? Who cares?
Speaker 3 (31:59):
Who cares?
Speaker 2 (32:00):
Dude, anything is possible. Okay, that and some back and
back tales of summer.
Speaker 4 (32:04):
Please, I'd love that. I'd love that.
Speaker 2 (32:06):
Okay, well, where can all of our listeners find you?
Where are you on the internet?
Speaker 4 (32:11):
On Instagram? My Instagram is Alisa Martini Official. And then
there's footage of me on YouTube. If you want to
see any clips or stuff like that, probably search up
my name.
Speaker 3 (32:23):
But yeah, hell yeah.
Speaker 2 (32:26):
Well it's been super fun chatting with you. We'll see
how the Knicks do. We didn't get to talk about
the Liberty. That's my team. I know the Knicks incredible,
but you know that season's just getting going and last
year they were they're any champs. So you are lucky
that you have such access to everything. I mean, what
(32:47):
doesn't New York have all Right, listeners, write us like subscribe,
you can hit us on Instagram at at good Luck Pod.
We'd love to hear from you every time. I'm waiting
to hear and we'll be here next week, so tune
back in.
Speaker 1 (33:03):
Good Luck with That is an iHeart women's sports production
and partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment.
Speaker 5 (33:09):
We are your hosts Ashley Rayfeld, Nora Bascnzlos, Alex White,
and Mimi nu Our Executive producer is Jesse Katz, supervising
producer Tari Harrison, video producer Daniel Goodman, and video production
by School of Humans.
Speaker 4 (33:24):
This podcast was created by Ashley Rayfeld.
Speaker 5 (33:26):
Listen to Good Luck with That, a skateboarding podcast, on
the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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