Dope Individuals Only

In this episode, I sit down with Jose Rosado to talk about his journey—from his upbringing to building his own clothing brand from the ground up. We dive into the importance of setting an example for the next generation, the legacy he’s working to leave behind, and how fatherhood shapes his choices. Jose also shares how faith plays a central role in navigating life’s challenges and staying grounded through growth. This is a real an...

In Part 1 of our convo with Abu Shaw—a purple belt in jiu-jitsu and a skilled electrical engineer—we cover a little bit of everything. We kick things off with the Eagles' Super Bowl win and the wild reality that people will still find a reason to hate. From there, we get into why our 10-year high school reunion never happened and toy with the idea of putting together a 15-year one ourselves.Abu also shares his journey in jiu-jitsu,...

In this heartfelt episode, I open up about a recent experience with online slander—half-truths and outright lies that deeply impacted my personal life and the things I've worked so hard to build. Social media can be an incredible tool, but when misused, it can cause real harm.We dive into the responsibility that comes with having a voice online. Every post, share, and comment carries power—the power to uplift or destroy, to build c...

In this deeply honest and necessary conversation, Erik The Host sits down with Addy Lugo, host of the Attitude Lounge Podcast, to tackle a topic most people shy away from—death. We all face it eventually, yet few of us truly prepare for it.Addy shares her personal journey, including her battle with cancer and what it was like to be close to death. Together, they discuss:🔹 How to prepare for your own passing🔹 Ways to help loved on...

In this solo episode, Erik The Host shares a life-changing experience—skydiving. He dives into how free-falling from thousands of feet in the air shifted his perspective on fear, risk, and living fully. This episode also takes a deep dive into 2024—the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned. Erik reflects on personal growth, challenges overcome, and the key moments that shaped his year. Plus, a look ahead to 2025, setting the to...

In Episode 70 of the Dope Individuals Only Podcast, host Erik The Host sits down with Klu The Creative to tackle a dynamic lineup of topics. They explore the alarming decline in literacy rates among Black and Brown children and discuss actionable solutions for change. Klu shares insights on the distinction between an emcee and a rapper, sparking a deep dive into hip-hop culture. They also delve into Klu’s unique perspective on cine...

Join Erik The Host as he sits down with DJ Latino Mix for an engaging conversation about the power of music to build community and bring joy. They dive into the ups and downs of life as a DJ, the hilarious antics of drunk partygoers, advocating for marijuana, and navigating life as a Mexican man in America. Fidel shares how starting a family has shaped his lifestyle and how his journey as a DJ has impacted his life and the people a...

In this episode, Erik sits down with Michelle Zattoni, a true trailblazer who turned loss into legacy by founding a cultural festival in memory of her sister. They dive into her journeys across Africa and Europe, promoting cultural diversity and breaking barriers. Michele shares insights on leading as a woman in male-dominated spaces and offers a powerful perspective on not letting the past define your future. This conversation is ...

In this episode, Erik The Host chops it up with Lass Shellz, founder of the fresh juice brand, Oulalade. They get into the grind of building a business from scratch, why LeBron James is undisputedly the GOAT, and how to keep pushing when chasing your dreams. Tune in for inspiration, juice, and straight-up real talk from two dope individuals who live life on their terms. #dopeindividualsonly #dopeindividualsonlypodcast #podcast ...

On Episode 66 of the Dope Individuals Only Podcast, Erik The Host sits down with "The Real Vinci" for a powerful conversation about embracing individuality and owning your path. Together, they explore the art of leadership and knowing when it’s time to follow, the importance of having ride or dies, and how family and fatherhood shape their journeys. Plus, they dive deep into how creating music isn’t just a passion, but es...

This week on the Dope Individuals Only Podcast, Erik The Host is joined by Janal Caldero. After a hotly contested battle of "Rock, paper, shoot" for who gets to go potty first, and some comedic small talk, it was clear this was a must have conversation for the world to hear! This conversation is filled with an abundance of information and plenty to be verified, however, strap in for some wild takes, heart felt moments, an...

Dope Individuals Only Podcast | Episode 64Hark and hearken, all ye dear, Erik The Host is back with cheer,For the Dope Individuals Only Podcast returns, and you shall hear,The esteemed Angel “Hitman” Ojea, gracing us once more,With tales of his past and the impact he bore.From humble beginnings to community deeds so grand,To the role of a father with a steady hand,This time, we dive into food with zest and flair,As Angel sings prai...

Dope Individuals Only Podcast - Episode 63: Be The CEO Join Erik The Host as he sits down with Jake Supreme, the visionary CEO of Abstract Music Empire and a key member of Manifest Music Group. Dive into a powerful conversation about Black ownership, seizing opportunities, and building meaningful relationships in the music industry. Join the conversation 🔥 Jake Supreme Music: https://youtu.be/WsfQPWbOFqM?si=k706D6lCvcr4-cPGhttps...

Welcome to Episode 62 of the Dope Individuals Only Podcast! This episode features special guest Don Dolla 500. Join Erik The Host as we dive deep into stepping outside our musical comfort zones and making music for a broader audience. We explore cultural growth and collective success for people of color, discuss the reality of survivor's guilt, and tackle overcoming conditioning with inspirations from "Rambo" and 50 C...

Join Erik The Host for an inspiring and dynamic episode of the Dope Individuals Only Podcast as he sits down with J Smoove, a multi-talented artist based out of Reading, PA. J Smoove, known for his podcast "Basement Sessions" live every Thursday at 6:30, shares his journey through the highs and lows of his rap career.In this episode, J Smoove opens up about his early life, the impact of personal losses, and the hiatus tha...

This week on the Dope Individuals Only podcast, Erik is joined by Ghost 5'5, coming straight out of Zone 6, East Atlanta Georgia! In episode 60 Ghost 5'5 shares his personal and musical journey. From his big move out of Atlanta to the small city of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to our first encounter at a show we both performed at. His story is full of pitfalls and triumphs, and although he is not where he desires to be at this ...

In this week’s episode on the Dope Individuals Only podcast, we kick it with Edgar Marin and Carlos Lowe to chop it up about the Avengers Flag Football Organization and how it all started. We’re talking about the real impact coaches can have on their players. Carlos breaks down his days ballin’ at Lafayette University and how it changed his life. Edgar keeps it 100 about growing up in the Lehigh Valley and his love for flag footbal...