#1382 - RZA & Donnell Rawlings

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Don L. Rawlings Podcast Production Beginnings

  • Don L. Rawlings podcast production discussed with a guest referring to being a producer.
  • Conversation includes hip hop royalty references and ideas for podcast content.
  • Guest recounts nervously avoiding the podcast question and finding the confidence to proceed.
• 00:02:12

  Podcast Launch Challenges and Reflection

  • Discussion on challenges faced during podcast launch, including technical difficulties and decisions on podcast setup.
  • Guest emphasizes the importance of contemplation and reflection, drawing reference to Bhagavad Gita's teachings.
  • Exchange on the significance of podcasting for personal growth and potential financial benefits.
• 00:09:14

  Joe and Don's Conversation at Sugar Hill

  • Joe expresses he is too busy to spend time rapping despite his interest in it
  • Discussion about the rarity of white rappers succeeding in the industry
  • Importance of clarity in communication and misquoting in their conversation
• 00:10:06

  Hip Hop: A Multicultural American Art Form

  • Historical roots of hip hop culture traced back to diverse figures like Grandmaster Flash and LL Cool J
  • Inclusive nature of hip hop with contributions from various cultures including Spanish, white, and Asian
  • Evolution of hip hop from its original form to a more melodic and diverse genre
• 00:19:04

  Jimmy Schuber and American Eagles - An Insight into Eagles' Behavior

  • Discussion about Eagles crashing while attempting to mate
  • Reference to a comedian's bit about Eagles
  • Observations on American Eagles' lack of emotions during mating
• 00:21:23

  Kung Fu Movies Influence - From Childhood to Adolescence

  • Introduction to Kung Fu movies at a young age
  • Description of movie experiences involving Kung Fu genre and other classics
  • Impact of action films on personal interests and lifestyle choices
• 00:28:07

  Nutrition Discussions & Vegan Choices with Friend

  • Conversation about diet preferences and avoiding meat since 1995
  • Discussion on veganism, alcohol intake, and nutrition monitoring
  • Details on eating habits, including frequency of meals and food choices
• 00:32:07

  Kellogg's Cereal Story & Pepsi Marketing Strategy

  • Exploration of Kellogg's inception story and the invention of cereal
  • Anecdote on how Post cereal was started by Mr. Post at Kellogg's Sanitarium
  • Insight into Pepsi's marketing tactics targeting black community to gain market share
• 00:37:07

  Breaking the Color Barrier in American Businesses in the 1940s

  • Discussion about how one pioneering company broke the color barrier in 1940s American businesses.
  • Description of the outfits and lifestyle of Pepsi employees in contrast to Coca-Cola.
  • History of Coca-Cola's use of Coca leaves and medical cocaine by its inventor.
• 00:38:50

  The Origin and Evolution of Cocaine Use in Coca-Cola

  • Revealing the inventor of Coca-Cola was hooked on morphine and used cocaine to counter it.
  • Discussion about the African origin of the cocoa plant used in making Coca-Cola.
  • Insight into the removal of cocaine from Coca-Cola and its replacement with lidocaine for medical purposes.
• 00:45:45

  Cleveland Deli Sandwich vs. Turkey Choices

  • Discussion about the best sandwich in Cleveland featuring pastrami.
  • Comparison between different meat options like turkey and pastrami.
  • Exploration of food preferences and experiences during a conversation about sandwiches.
• 00:46:33

  Reflections on Turkey and Chicken Consumption

  • Transition from meat-eating to vegetarian choices like turkey burgers.
  • Personal experience of changing dietary preferences and reflections on consuming chicken.
  • Critical encounter that led to reconsideration of meat consumption and switching to alternative protein sources.
• 00:54:45

  Discussion on Veganism and Impossible Burger

  • Comparison between vegan and non-vegan food choices
  • Focus on the marketing and appeal of 'Impossible Burger' as a vegan alternative
  • Debate on the health benefits of processed vegan foods
• 00:58:10

  Lab-Created Meats and Future of Food Industry

  • Exploration of lab-created meats and their implications
  • Debate on the ethical and health considerations of lab-grown meat
  • Discussion on the potential evolution of food production and its societal impact
• 01:03:50

  JOY DEAS and RONDALE DALLINGS: A Tale of Friendship

  • JOY DEAS introduced RONDALE DALLINGS as his great friend during a special event.
  • Discussion on people having different dietary responses such as allergies to vegetables or peanuts.
  • Highlight on the unique case of people being allergic to their partner's bodily fluids.
• 01:05:21

  The Controversy Over Water Preferences

  • Exploration of individuals' varying preferences for water and other drinks based on taste.
  • Discussion on the significance of water appreciation after physical exertion like in hot yoga.
  • Debate on plastic recycling and environmental consciousness tied to drinking habits post-exercise.
• 01:12:39

  John Claude Van Damme: The Professional Drinker

  • John Claude Van Damme was known for his professionalism in drinking, always having a gallon of water with him
  • His approach to drinking involved staying hydrated by drinking a gallon of water, alongside other beverages
  • Drinking for him was a ritual of continuous hydration, showing his commitment to professionalism
• 01:13:44

  DeVon's Philosophy on Celebration & Drinking

  • DeVon advocates for celebrating only after completing something as a meaningful way to mark achievements
  • The concept of celebration is linked to giving oneself a reason to celebrate, focusing on significant milestones
  • The discussion highlights the importance of finding reasons to celebrate and appreciate accomplishments
• 01:21:51

  Wu-Tang American Dream: Touring and Creativity

  • Discussion about unique version of the American dream linked to art and creativity
  • Mention of Wu-Tang documentary and Hulu series showcasing struggles of a group of men
  • Reflections on the struggle to obtain musical equipment through legal means
• 01:24:01

  Illegal Business Ventures: Socks and Drug Dealing

  • Narrative on selling socks for profit in particular neighborhoods
  • Insights into the drug trade business model from uptown to downtown areas
  • Discussions on the evolution of technology piracy and its impact on various industries
• 01:31:46

  Wu Tang Plans and Music Leaks

  • Discussion about selling unreleased music by Wu Tang
  • Speculation about releasing music from someone who is locked up
  • Impact of streaming services and illegal downloads on devaluing music
• 01:38:04

  Music Industry Economics and Supporting Artists

  • Analysis of the impact of technology on music industry economics
  • Challenges faced by artists due to free downloads and streaming services
  • Importance of supporting artists through tangible purchases like vinyl and CDs
• 01:41:41

  Supporting Artists through Physical Purchases

  • Discussion on supporting artists by physically purchasing items like vinyl records
  • Importance of physical acts like going to a store and buying merchandise
  • Challenges in finding the best way to support artists in the current era
• 01:44:58

  The Symbiotic Relationship between Artists and Fans

  • Emphasizing the importance of music in creating a connection with fans
  • The significance of physical objects in fostering a relationship between artists and fans
  • Anecdote about purchasing a first issue X-Men comic book to gift to a fan
• 01:51:29

  Formation of Wu Tang Clan and Philosophical Roots

  • Creation of Wu Tang clan with foundations in Shaolin and Wu Tang philosophy
  • Incorporation of spirituality, wisdom, and martial arts into music
  • Mixing physical and spiritual elements to create a unique style
• 01:52:51

  Controversy and Interpretation: The Wu Tang Phrase

  • Discussion on a controversial joke related to Wu Tang
  • Unraveling the meaning of a humor involving Wu Tang
  • Exploring the boundary-pushing nature of Dave's humor
• 02:01:18

  Discussion on Sobriety and Life Choices

  • Person recounts a story of a friend sobering up after a fall
  • Reflections on the moment of sobriety before a major decision
  • Sending a Quran as a gesture of support and advice
• 02:02:23

  Survival and Unexpected Twists

  • Discussion on surviving extreme situations
  • Mention of a quadriplegic individual from the story
  • Humorous exchange about miracle work and the unexpected
• 02:09:54

  Wu Tang and the American Saga - TV Series Development

  • Entertainment icon shows interest in turning 'The Dile of Woo' book into a TV series
  • Partnership formed with Alex C., Francie Calfo to create 10 episode series 'Wu Tang and the American Saga'
  • Show explores pre-Wu Tang days, neighborhood challenges, gun violence, and community struggles
• 02:14:22

  RZA's Footprints in Hip Hop and Film - Collaboration and Legacy

  • Collaboration with Imagine TV and Brian Grazer on TV series development
  • Reflects on evolution from hip hop to film industry, leaving legacy and paving the way for others in the industry
  • Highlights the collaborative nature of film production involving hundreds of individuals and the growth of hip hop in various art forms