Killer Mike on Bernie Sanders, Quarantine & the Governor of Georgia

TL;DR

Killer Mike discusses his activism, barbershops, and experiences with political figures.

Transcript

our next guest is a grammy award-winning rapper activist restaurateur and a barber shop owner two you know him as one half of the hip-hop duo run the jewels please welcome michael render aka killer mike hi mike hey how are you sir i'm good how you doing i'm good i have no complaints to air man mike you've been on uh our show with run the jewels i f... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎼 Killer Mike has gained significant recognition for his activism alongside his music career, emphasizing community engagement.
• 🤗 The "Swag Shops" are designed to be traditional barbershops that allow for open conversations, highlighting the cultural significance of such spaces.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Killer Mike chose to prioritize health and safety over business profits during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing his commitment to community well-being.
• 🙃 He maintains a relationship with politicians, advocating for better trade programs and support for Black-owned businesses in Georgia.
• 👪 His family dynamics include a blended family structure that shapes his understanding of various societal issues.
• 😒 Killer Mike frequently uses his platform to discuss the struggles and reality of being a Black man in today's society.
• 🇲🇩 He values the mentorship and influence of his grandparents, which has molded his character and sense of responsibility.

Questions & Answers

Q: How has Killer Mike's upbringing influenced his activism?

Killer Mike credits his grandparents for instilling values of community service and responsibility in him. Growing up in a supportive environment made him aware of societal issues, driving his desire to help others. His activism has thus been a lifelong endeavor, reflecting the lessons he learned in his youth about the importance of giving back to the community.

Q: What are Killer Mike's barbershop ventures focused on?

Killer Mike and his wife own three barber shops called "Swag Shops" and aim to open ten more in the next two years. They focus on providing traditional haircuts in an environment conducive to conversation about various topics, including politics and personal issues. The shops reflect the cultural importance of barbershops in Black communities as spaces for fellowship.

Q: How did Killer Mike respond to Georgia's business reopening during COVID-19?

Killer Mike chose to keep his barbershops closed even when the governor reopened many businesses. He expressed concern for the safety of his customers, who primarily include dancers who rely on haircuts for their careers. By prioritizing health over profit, he highlighted the importance of community wellbeing during the pandemic.

Q: What discussion topics does Killer Mike embrace in his barber shops?

In his barbershops, Killer Mike welcomes discussions covering a wide array of topics, such as politics, sports, and personal life experiences. The environment encourages camaraderie and healthy debate, creating a space where men can express their thoughts freely, reminiscent of traditional barbershop culture.

Q: What is Killer Mike's relationship with political figures?

Killer Mike has interacted with notable political figures like Governor Brian Kemp and Bernie Sanders. He believes in engaging with elected officials to advocate for important issues such as job training programs and funding for Black businesses. Through these relationships, he aims to create more opportunities for marginalized communities.

Q: How does Killer Mike integrate his activism with his music career?

Killer Mike views his music as an extension of his activism. He uses his platform to inspire change and raise awareness about social justice issues. By blending his craft with advocacy, he aims to reach a broader audience and promote critical conversations, especially focusing on the experiences of the Black community.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Killer Mike, known for his music and activism, emphasizes the importance of community involvement and reflecting on his upbringing by his grandparents.

• He shares insights about his barbershops, which will expand significantly while also promoting community discussions on various topics.

• Killer Mike discusses interactions with Georgia's governor regarding trade programs and the importance of supporting Black businesses in the state.