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136. Aloe Blacc: Grammy-Nominated and Billboard Chart-Topping Artist
Ever wondered how a kid from Laguna Hills, California, grows up to write chart-topping hits like "Wake Me Up" and "I Need a Dollar"? In this episode of Hawke Talk, I chat with Aloe Blacc, the renowned musician known for his contributions to hip-hop and soul. Aloe walks me through his origin story, growing up in Laguna Hills, California, and how his early passion for music began to take shape. He shares how his family, especially his parents, played a crucial role in supporting his dreams and the pivotal moments that set his career in motion.
Aloe reminisces about starting to write rap songs at just nine years old, which eventually lead to his fame with hits like "I Need a Dollar" and "Wake Me Up." Throughout our conversation, Aloe's perseverance stands out as his importance on family and balancing personal fulfillment and professional success. It is an inspiring discussion that highlights his musical journey and the values guiding him along the way.
Tune in now to catch this inspiring conversation and hear more about Aloe's journey firsthand!
In this episode:
(00:28) Aloe Blacc's early life
(05:50) Hobby vs. career
(11:52) Transition to music full-time
(15:15) Optimism about the future
(24:05) Signing with Interscope
(30:44) Creating Wake Me Up
(33:01) Early reception of Wake Me Up
(34:06) Understanding the market
(36:41) Touring with Bruno Mars
(38:30) Shifting priorities
(40:06) Instilling values in children
(41:01) Deciding to stay home
(42:10) Understanding Success
(42:50) Aloe Blacc's new venture
(43:39) Meijer Inc: A drug discovery company
(44:58) Inspiration behind the company
(46:34) Research and development journey
(47:52) Cancer treatment focus
(49:55) Advice for pursuing dreams
(52:17) Closing thoughts
Hawke Media
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
- https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en
- https://hawkemedia.com/
- https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
- https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/
About Our Guest
Aloe Blacc is an accomplished musician, songwriter, and entrepreneur known for his hit singles like "I Need a Dollar" and "The Man." With a diverse career that spans genres such as hip-hop, soul, and folk, he has collaborated with various artists, including Avicii, on the global hit "Wake Me Up." In addition to his music career, Blacc is involved in philanthropy and business, notably working in biotech with his company Meijer Inc., which is focused on innovative health solutions. He is also recognized for his advocacy in education and social justice.
Aloe Blacc
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136. [Trailer] Aloe Blacc: Grammy-Nominated and Billboard Chart-Topping Artist
01:02||Season 1, Ep. 136Ever wondered how a kid from Laguna Hills, California, grows up to write chart-topping hits like "Wake Me Up" and "I Need a Dollar"? In this episode of Hawke Talk, I chat with Aloe Blacc, the renowned musician known for his contributions to hip-hop and soul. Aloe walks me through his origin story, growing up in Laguna Hills, California, and how his early passion for music began to take shape. He shares how his family, especially his parents, played a crucial role in supporting his dreams and the pivotal moments that set his career in motion.135. 135. Avi Loeb: Visionary Harvard Astrophysicist & Founder of the Galileo Project for UFO Research
38:03||Season 1, Ep. 135Did you know Proxima Centauri is only 4.24 light-years away, yet would take tens of thousands of years to reach with current technology? In this insightful episode, I got to sit down with Avi Loeb, a renowned astrophysicist and Harvard professor. Avi shares his incredible journey, from his days as a curious kid in Israel to becoming a leading figure in astrophysics. He talks about his early love for philosophy, how he transitioned into physics, and even his work on the Strategic Defense Initiative. We discussed his groundbreaking research in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, including the fascinating Galileo Project, which aims to find physical evidence of alien technology. Throughout our conversation, Avi emphasizes the importance of staying curious and open-minded, and the profound implications that discovering extraterrestrial life could have on humanity.Tune in to this captivating episode of Hawke Talk with Avi Loeb to uncover the mysteries of the universe and the search for extraterrestrial life.In this episode: (00:00) Introduction to the podcast(02:12) Transition to Physics(04:58) Details of the SDI project(07:52) Lessons from physics and technology(08:51) Fermi's paradox and alien civilizations(10:07) The search for extraterrestrial intelligence(11:08) Traveling to Proxima Centauri(12:48) Robotic exploration of space(13:28) Philosophy's connection to physics(14:13) Military training in physics(15:42) Curiosity as a driving force(16:44) Challenges in academia(18:05) Avi's North Star in research(18:07) The vulnerability of tenure(19:16) Innovation and funding(20:07) The search for extraterrestrial life(20:30) Traditional methods vs. new approaches(21:12) The Galileo project(23:29) Interstellar meteor expedition(25:06) The mystery of Oumuamua(26:59) Cosmic meaning and existence(28:34) Presumptions about life in the universe(29:22) The importance of seeking evidence(34:06) What's next for Avi?Hawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Abraham (Avi) Loeb is the Frank B. Baird, Jr. Professor of Science at Harvard University and a bestselling author. He received his PhD in Physics from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem at age 24 and has led groundbreaking research in astrophysics, black holes, and extraterrestrial life. Loeb is the Founding Director of Harvard's Black Hole Initiative and chairs the Advisory Committee for the Breakthrough Starshot Initiative. TIME magazine named him one of the 25 most influential people in space.Professor Avi LoebAvi Loeb -Facebook Avi Loeb- Instagram135. [Trailer] Avi Loeb: Visionary Harvard Astrophysicist & Founder of the Galileo Project for UFO Research
00:57||Season 1, Ep. 135Did you know Proxima Centauri is only 4.24 light-years away, yet would take tens of thousands of years to reach with current technology? In this insightful episode, I got to sit down with Avi Loeb, a renowned astrophysicist and Harvard professor. Avi shares his incredible journey, from his days as a curious kid in Israel to becoming a leading figure in astrophysics. He talks about his early love for philosophy, how he transitioned into physics, and even his work on the Strategic Defense Initiative.134. 134. Building Empires: Entrepreneurial Journeys with Daymond John, Gary Vee, Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rachel Zoe, Anthony Anderson, and Cedric the Entertainer
57:06||Season 1, Ep. 134In this special compilation episode of HawkeTalk, Erik Huberman dives deep into the minds of some of our time's most successful and charismatic entrepreneurs and entertainers. With insights from Daymond John, Gary Vee, Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rachel Zoe, Anthony Anderson, and Cedric the Entertainer, this episode explores their early inspirations, challenges, and the mindsets that propelled them to build empires in their respective fields.In this episode:(00:00:30) Rachel Zoe opens the conversation by sharing her lifelong passion for fashion(00:04:45) Daymond John recounts his early life in Queens, New York(00:11:40) Gary Vee reflects on growing up in a humble immigrant household(00:22:30) Dr. Andrew Huberman discusses his early fascination with science.(00:30:00) Anthony Anderson shares his childhood dream of becoming an actor(00:42:00) Cedric talks about balancing dreams of fame with real-world pressures.Hawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/About Our GuestsDaymond John is the founder of FUBU and a Shark Tank star. Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee) is an entrepreneur and CEO of VaynerMedia. Dr. Andrew Huberman is a Stanford neuroscientist known for his work on brain plasticity. Rachel Zoe is a renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur. Anthony Anderson is an award-winning actor known for Black-ish, and Cedric the Entertainer is a comedian and actor known for The Steve Harvey Show.Daymond JohnDaymond John - WebsiteDaymond John - InstagramGary VaynerchukGary Vaynerchuk - WebsiteGary Vaynerchuk - InstagramDr. Andrew HubermanDr. Andrew Huberman - WebsiteDr. Andrew Huberman - InstagramRachel ZoeRachel Zoe - WebsiteRachel Zoe - InstagramAnthony AndersonAnthony Anderson - InstagramCedric the EntertainerCedric the Entertainer - Instagram134. [Trailer] Building Empires: Entrepreneurial Journeys with Daymond John, Gary Vee, Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rachel Zoe, Anthony Anderson, and Cedric the Entertainer
03:50||Season 1, Ep. 134In this special compilation episode of HawkeTalk, Erik Huberman dives deep into the minds of some of our time's most successful and charismatic entrepreneurs and entertainers. With insights from Daymond John, Gary Vee, Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rachel Zoe, Anthony Anderson, and Cedric the Entertainer, this episode explores their early inspirations, challenges, and the mindsets that propelled them to build empires in their respective fields.From their early struggles and triumphs to the moments that defined their careers, these guests offer invaluable lessons on what it takes to build lasting empires.133. 133. Jane Goodall: Templeton Prize Laureate, Globally Renowned Zoologist, Primatologist, Anthropologist, and Leading Chimpanzee Expert
58:46||Season 1, Ep. 133What if a simple childhood moment—watching a hen lay an egg—could kickstart a career that changes how we see ourselves and animals? It might sound surprising, but that everyday scene sparked a deep curiosity in someone who would go on to study chimpanzee behavior. In this captivating episode of "Hawke Talk," I am delighted to be joined by the legendary Jane Goodall to explore her remarkable journey. From her childhood fascination with nature, nurtured by her mother’s unwavering encouragement, to her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Africa, Jane shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career. At 90 years old, Jane speaks candidly about what’s next for her, with a lighthearted comment that she’s "just waiting for dying." But her passion for protecting our planet is still very much alive. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with lessons in curiosity, perseverance, and the importance of making a difference.Want to get involved? Support Jane’s mission by visiting the Jane Goodall Institute and learn how you can take action to protect wildlife and habitats.In this episode: (01:03) Childhood environment(05:26) Impact of war(11:39) Early education and work(15:20) Experiences in Cape Town(22:44) Interest in chimps(25:14) Learning from observation(30:04) Commitment to research(41:23) Living conditions in the jungle(47:35) The Jane Goodall Institute's initiatives(53:27) Returning to the Chimps Over 30 Years(55:04) What next for Jane?Hawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Dr. Jane Goodall (born April 3, 1934, in London, England) is a pioneering British ethologist renowned for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania. Leaving school at 18, Goodall’s fascination with animals led her to Africa, where she began assisting Louis Leakey. In 1960, she established a research camp at Gombe, revolutionizing our understanding of primate behavior by documenting their use of tools and complex social structures. Earning a Ph.D. from Cambridge in 1965 without a prior degree, Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977 and initiated the Roots & Shoots program in 1991. She continues to advocate for conservation and environmental issues.Dr. Jane GoodallJane Goodall -Facebook Jane Goodall- Instagram Jane Goodall- Youtube Jane Goodall- TikTokThe Jane Goodall Institute - Website133. [Trailer] Jane Goodall: Templeton Prize Laureate, Globally Renowned Zoologist, Primatologist, Anthropologist, and Leading Chimpanzee Expert
02:53||Season 1, Ep. 133What if a simple childhood moment—watching a hen lay an egg—could kickstart a career that changes how we see ourselves and animals? It might sound surprising, but that everyday scene sparked a deep curiosity in someone who would go on to study chimpanzee behavior. How does something so ordinary lead to discoveries about the connection between humans and animals?132. 132. Lawrence Longo: CEO of Prince St. Pizza, Irv's Burgers, & The Master of Premium Fast Food
38:09||Season 1, Ep. 132They say childhood experiences can shape our futures in unexpected ways. Have you ever considered how growing up in a vibrant food scene might spark a lifelong passion? Imagine taking that love for food and swapping a career in Hollywood for the exciting world of culinary innovation. It’s a big leap, right?In this inspiring episode of "Hawke Talk," I sit down with Lawrence Longo, a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey is as flavorful as it is fascinating. From the glittering lights of Hollywood to the sizzling kitchens of the food industry, Lawrence's story is a masterclass in passion, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.Join us as Lawrence takes us from his roots in a food-loving Italian family in Toronto to the bustling streets of Hollywood and, finally, into the heart of the food business. With a background in the film industry, Lawrence shares how his love for food led him to create a groundbreaking app centered around secret menu items at top restaurants. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a food enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice to fuel your journey. Don’t miss this chance to learn from Lawrence Longo's experiences and discover how to navigate your path with confidence and creativity.In this episode: (00:40) Lawrence's food critique(05:31) First job in Hollywood(10:02) Hustling in Hollywood(15:38) App's success(20:00) Burger showdown event(26:07) Timeline of restaurant openings(30:51) Celebrating business success(35:39) The journey of grit(37:07) Perseverance in parenting(37:24) Quality and customer happinessHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Lawrence Longo, a Canadian-born entrepreneur with deep Italian roots, moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment. However, his true passion—nurtured by a family that cherished cooking and sharing meals—soon led him down a different path. An unforgettable dinner at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, where he stumbled upon a hidden “off the menu” item, sparked an idea that would change his life. Lawrence LongoLawrence Longo- LinkedInOff the Menu - Instagram Irv's Burgers- Instagram Prince St. Pizza- Instagram Off the Menu-Website Lawrence Longo - Instagram