Mask Off with Hawaii Mike: The intersection of life, mental health and Hip-Hop culture.

From intern to award winning radio host, Angela Yee reflects on her career journey, discussing pivotal moments that shaped her path in radio and entrepreneurship. She discusses her early influences, career aspirations, including her experiences with Wu-Tang, D'Angelo, and her transitions into management, freelancing and radio. 

We talk the importance of taking risks, creating platforms for women, and navigating the challenges of being a female voice in a male-dominated industry. Angela emphasizes the significance of mental health, self-care, and building multiple income streams through real estate investments. She offers valuable advice for aspiring women in radio and highlights her future aspirations, including her latest projects and book recommendations.

You know him as a world-champion DJ, Kanye West’s tour DJ, Fool’s Gold Records co-founder and a pioneer who shapes global music culture. But behind the accolades is Alain, a kid from Montreal who became a 5x world champ by 18 — and then hit his first burnout before most of us even started college.

In this episode, A-Trak opens up about:
✨ The pressure of winning young and learning to deal with stress, doubt, and burnout

✨ Discovering Hip Hop and building his craft with his brother Dave 1

✨ Why therapy, exercise and “refilling the tank” became as important as music

✨ Lessons on balance, vulnerability and longevity in a fast-paced industry

This is Mask Off with Hawaii Mike — the stories behind the names, the human side of cultural icons.

In episode 25 of Mask Off, host Hawaii Mike engages in a deep and reflective conversation with Mecc Rashawn, a prominent figure in the hip hop industry. They explore Mecc’s early life in South Jamaica, Queens, his discovery of Hip Hop and the significant influence of family dynamics on his personal and professional journey. The discussion delves into the challenges of independence, the lessons learned from parents and the impact of education on career choices. Mr. Mecc shares his experiences at The Source magazine, the struggles with imposter syndrome, and the importance of finding one's voice in writing. This conversation is a rich tapestry of life lessons, cultural insights, and the transformative power of music. In this conversation, the speakers explore the journey of self-discovery, the evolution of the music industry, and keeping integrity in journalism. They discuss their aspirations, the challenges faced in their careers, and the significance of finding one's voice. The dialogue emphasizes the balance between gratitude for past achievements and the relentless pursuit of future potential, culminating in a commitment to 'dying empty' by fully utilizing one's gifts and opportunities.

In this engaging conversation, DJ Spinna shares his journey from a modest upbringing in Brooklyn to becoming a prominent DJ and producer. He discusses the profound influence of his family's musical background, early experiences with DJ culture and challenges he faced in the music industry. Spinna emphasizes the importance of integrity and the evolution of the independent music scene, highlighting how the landscape has changed over the years. His passion for music and commitment to authenticity shine through as he reflects on his career and the essence of DJing.We discuss the immersive nature of music events, the healing power of dance and the importance of unity and love in a world increasingly divided by social media and individualism. The evolution of dance culture, the impact of the internet on creativity, and the significance of legacy over commercial success. Personal practices for grounding and self-reflection are emphasized, alongside the influence of iconic figures like Stevie Wonder and DJ Clark Kent in shaping his musical journey.

Hawaii Mike linked up with Premium Pete to talk fatherhood, emotional evolution, and finding purpose through pain.

Known for his work with Combat Jack and his own Premium Pete Show, Pete shares how becoming a father—and later choosing to go to therapy—completely reshaped how he sees the world and himself. From growing up in Brooklyn to building a voice in Hip Hop culture, Pete opens up about what it means to do the real work, not for clout—but for legacy.

Premium Pete talks about going to therapy to break generational cycles, learning how to truly listen (not just respond), and what it means to be a present father in a world full of distractions.

He reflects on his friendships with Combat Jack and Dallas Penn, the evolution of podcasting and how Hip Hop gave him connection and community. Whether it’s showing up for his kids or staying grounded through loss, Pete keeps it 100 about what growth really looks like for men.

This is his story, with the Mask Off.