Rodes Live

Latest Episodes:

Lessons with Ms. IFE Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Rodes Live Podcast, Rodes sits down with the inspiring LIZ Loving, also known as Ms. IFE, for an engaging conversation that covers education, community, culture, and music.

🎙️ Inside This Episode:

Ms. IFE shares her journey as a Special Education Teacher and the importance of advocating for students with diverse learning needs.
We discuss her impactful non-profit organization, its mission, and how it's creating positive change in the community.
An honest conversation about the Black experience, personal growth, and the importance of empowering future generations.
Ms. IFE talks about her musical journey, creative inspirations, and how she balances education, activism, and artistry.

🔥 New Segment: "On the Radar" Introducing our newest segment, where we spotlight emerging talent, important topics, and people making an impact. Stay tuned as we continue bringing fresh voices and exciting conversations to the show.

🎵 What's Poppin' Today's Rodes Live "What's Poppin'" Artist of the Day is Magz!

Magz stopped by to premiere a hard-hitting new record from her upcoming project, The WPM Immersion EP. If you're looking for your next favorite artist, this is one performance you won't want to miss.

Be sure to support independent artists and keep an eye out for The WPM Immersion EP when it drops!

🌐 Connect with Rodes

www.rodesonline.net
Linktr.ee/Rodes

🌐 Visit

www.wpmpodcast.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Your support helps independent podcasts continue bringing authentic conversations and independent music to the forefront.

#RodesLivePodcast #Rodes #Podcast #MsIFE #LizLoving #SpecialEducation #SpecialEd #NonProfit #CommunityImpact #BlackExperience #IndependentMusic #OnTheRadar #WhatsPoppin #Magz #WPMImmersionEP #HipHop #IndieArtist #MusicPodcast #ChicagoPodcast #SupportIndependentArtists #Culture #Education #Conversation #WPMPodcast

City Warz Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

Is Chicago Really One of the Greatest Cities in America?

In this episode of Rodes Live Podcast, Rodes steps into the conversation and passionately pleads the case for why Chicago deserves to be recognized as one of the greatest cities in the world.

Too often, the city is defined by headlines and stereotypes, but there's so much more to the Windy City than what makes the evening news. Rodes breaks down five reasons why Chicago continues to stand tall among America's greatest cities, highlighting its rich culture, resilient people, legendary food, iconic architecture, deep sports tradition, music, history, and unmatched influence on Hip-Hop and urban culture.

Whether you're a lifelong Chicagoan, a former resident, or someone who's never visited, this episode challenges listeners to look beyond the misconceptions and appreciate what truly makes Chicago special.

In This Episode:

Why Chicago's culture is second to none
Five reasons Chicago belongs among America's greatest cities
Separating myths from reality
The city's influence on music, sports, food, and entertainment
Why hometown pride still matters

🎧 Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🌐 Website: https://www.rodesonline.net

🔗 Link Hub: https://Linktr.ee/Rodes

Follow Rodes:

www.rodesonline.net
Linktr.ee/Rodes

#RodesLivePodcast #CityWarz #Chicago #WindyCity #ChicagoCulture #ChiTown #UrbanCulture #HipHopCulture #PodcastLife #IndependentPodcast #ChicagoPride #CityLife #MusicCulture #History #FoodCulture #SportsCulture #Rodes #RodesLive #SupportIndependentCreators #ChicagoStrong

Celebrate Jul 17, 2026

Show notes

Celebrating 300 Episodes & 30 Years of Hip-Hop Classics!

300 episodes! What started as a vision has grown into hundreds of conversations covering hip-hop, music business, culture, entrepreneurship, motivation, and the stories that deserve to be told. Thank you to every listener, guest, supporter, and subscriber who has been part of this incredible journey!

In this milestone episode, we're celebrating 300 episodes of the Rodes Live Podcast while paying tribute to two of the greatest albums ever released in hip-hop history—Nas' It Was Written and Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt—both celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2026. We discuss the impact these timeless classics have had on the culture, lyricism, storytelling, and generations of artists that followed.

We also bring back another edition of our fan-favorite segment:

🔥 What's Poppin?

Today's "What's Poppin" Artists of the Day are:

🎤 Nas
👑 Jay-Z

We revisit their legendary catalogs, discuss their influence on hip-hop, and reflect on why their music continues to inspire fans and artists around the world three decades later.

Whether you've been rocking with Rodes Live since Episode 1 or you're joining us for the very first time, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

🌐 Official Website: www.rodesonline.net

🔗 All Music, Podcasts & Social Media: Linktr.ee/Rodes

Thank you for helping make 300 episodes possible. Here's to the next chapter of the Rodes Live Podcast!

#RodesLivePodcast #Episode300 #300Episodes #HipHop #Nas #JayZ #ItWasWritten #ReasonableDoubt #WhatsPoppin #HipHopCulture #ClassicHipHop #RapPodcast #PodcastLife #MusicBusiness #IndependentArtist #BoomBap #Lyricism #HipHopHistory #PodcastCommunity #Rodes #ChicagoHipHop #SupportIndependentMedia

Kirk State: Hip-Hop History, Business. Creativity & Self-Motivation Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

In Episode 299 of the Rodes Live Podcast, I sit down with DJ, Producer, and Content Creator Kirk State for an engaging conversation that celebrates the culture of hip-hop from every angle.

From the roots of hip-hop to where the culture is headed, Kirk State shares his experiences, insights, and perspective on the music industry, content creation, entrepreneurship, and the importance of staying authentic in an ever-changing landscape.

We dive into:

Hip-hop history and its lasting impact
The evolution of DJing and music production
Building a brand through content creation
Independent music business strategies
Staying motivated through challenges
Creativity, consistency, and discipline
Advice for aspiring artists, producers, and entrepreneurs
Why preserving the culture still matters

Whether you're an artist, producer, music fan, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with gems that will inspire you to keep creating and keep pushing forward.

Follow Kirk State: 🌐 www.kirkstate.com

Stay Connected with Rodes: 🔗 Linktr.ee/Rodes 🌐 www.rodesonline.net

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves hip-hop culture and independent success stories.

#RodesLivePodcast #Episode299 #KirkState #HipHop #HipHopCulture #DJLife #MusicProducer #ContentCreator #IndependentArtist #MusicBusiness #Entrepreneur #SelfMotivation #IndependentMusic #Podcast #PodcastLife #ChicagoHipHop #MusicIndustry #CreativeJourney #Inspiration #Rodes

“All-Time Hip-Hop Hairstyles: Eras, Icons & Identity” Jun 12, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of Rodes Live, we dive into the legendary men’s and women’s hairstyles that shaped hip-hop culture across generations. Hair has always been more than style in the hip-hop world — it’s identity, rebellion, creativity, and cultural storytelling.

Rodes breaks down the most iconic hairstyles, the eras they defined, and why they mattered, from the golden age of high-top fades and box braids to the modern era of colored wigs, locs, twist-outs, and precision fades.

This episode explores how hip-hop used hair as a statement, a movement, and a message.

Website: www.rodesonline.net Links: Linktr.ee/Rodes

Hashtags: #RodesLive #HipHopCulture #HipHopHairstyles #HipHopHistory #BlackHairCulture #90sHipHop #2000sHipHop #NaturalHairMovement #HipHopStyle

Community Activist Antion Dobine May 22, 2026

Show notes

In this week’s episode of Rodes Live Podcast, Rodes sits down with community activist Antione Dobine, also known as D-Ice, for a powerful and inspiring conversation.

We dive deep into:

Community leadership and the realities of grassroots work
A rare chance meeting with Larry Hoover and the impact it had
Real problems facing neighborhoods today
Real solutions that can create lasting change
Finding resolve in challenging times and circumstances

This episode is filled with insight, purpose, and the spirit of rebuilding from within.

🎧 "What’s Poppin" Artist of the Day: DJ 211 — showcasing Midwest energy and Chicago talent.

Links

🌐 Website: www.rodesonline.net 🔗 All Links: Linktr.ee/Rodes

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#RodesLivePodcast #RodesLive #WhatsPoppin #CommunityVoices #ChicagoCulture #AntioneDobbins #DIce #LarryHoover #DJ211 #ChicagoPodcast #HipHopCulture #UrbanStories #CommunitySolutions #RodesOnline #LinkInBio #MidwestMusic #IndependentPodcasts

Chicago Staple: Garret's Popcorn May 15, 2026

Show notes

In this week’s episode of Rodes Live, we’re bringing you another Chicago staple that has stood the test of time — Garrett’s Popcorn, the legendary flavor icon known for its rich history, buttery aromas, and signature mix that locals and tourists swear by.

Rodes dives into the cultural impact of Garrett’s, its legacy in the city, and why it remains a go-to snack for celebrations, holidays, and everyday Chicago flavor. From the long lines downtown to the unforgettable caramel crisp, this episode highlights what makes Garrett’s more than popcorn — it’s Chicago tradition.

Listeners also get an update on what’s happening in the Rodes Live universe, upcoming content, and ways to stay connected with the movement.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

The history and legacy of Garrett’s Popcorn in Chicago
Why Garrett’s is considered a hometown treasure
Personal stories and nostalgic moments tied to the brand
Chicago culture, staples, and why they matter
Rodes Live updates & shout-outs

Stay Connected

🌐 Website: www.rodesonline.net 🔗 Linktree: Linktr.ee/Rodes

Hashtags

#RodesLivePodcast #GarrettsPopcorn #ChicagoStaple #ChicagoCulture #RodesLive #PodcastLife #WindyCityVibes #ChiTownClassics #SupportIndiePodcasts #UrbanCulture #HipHopPodcasts

Legend Has It: AZ May 08, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Rodes Live Podcast, Rodes dives deep into the Legend Has It series—an ongoing exploration of iconic artists, timeless albums, and their impact across the culture. Today’s spotlight is on none other than AZ, one of hip-hop’s most consistent lyricists and a true master craftsman on the mic.

Rodes breaks down why AZ’s Doe or Die 3 earns its place in the Legend Has It series, discussing its sound, its themes, and the significance of it being the final installment of the legendary trilogy. From Doe or Die to Doe or Die II, and now Doe or Die 3, Rodes highlights the growth, evolution, and airtight pen game that has kept AZ respected for decades.

Listeners will also enjoy a brand-new segment of What’s Poppin—featuring AZ as the Rodes Live “What’s Poppin” Artist of the Day. Rodes also previews what fans can expect next from the Legend Has It series and how future episodes will continue honoring artists who shaped the culture.

Tap in for hip-hop history, storytelling, and sharp commentary straight from the independent grind.

Links

🔗 www.rodesonline.net 🔗 Linktr.ee/Rodes

Hashtags

#RodesLivePodcast #LegendHasIt #AZ #DoeOrDie3 #HipHopHistory #WhatsPoppin #PodcastLife #HipHopCulture #LyricistLounge #IndiePodcaster #RodesLiveNetwork #MusicBreakdown #AlbumBreakdown #RodesOnline #RealHipHop

Episode-289 The Proof May 01, 2026

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the Rodes Live Podcast, Rodes digs deep into the concepts of approval and validation—two forces that shape the journey of every music artist, creator, and podcaster. From navigating expectations to breaking free from external judgment, Rodes shares real, lived experiences from both sides of the industry: as a Hip-Hop artist and as an Executive.

Rodes reflects on how the voices that matter the most—the fans—provide the real proof. From the support, numbers, engagement, and love shown over the years, he breaks down why artists must learn to value authentic connection over industry politics.

This episode brings an energetic and insightful edition of “What’s Poppin”, highlighting culture, creativity, and what’s trending. Today’s What’s Poppin Artist of the Day is Fredro Starr—recognized for his influence, longevity, and impact across Hip-Hop and entertainment. Rodes gives flowers where they’re due while spotlighting Fredro’s versatility and contributions to the game.

Key Topics Covered

Breaking down the need for approval as an artist and why it can be a trap
Understanding validation and how to avoid relying on it
Rodes’ personal journey through Hip-Hop—from recording artist to Executive
The importance of audience connection and building real fan relationships
Why “receipts” from the people matter more than industry opinions
Behind-the-scenes thoughts on podcasting, artistry, and creative evolution
This week’s “What’s Poppin” highlights in music and culture

Why This Episode Matters

“The Proof” is an honest reminder that every creator must learn what really counts. Whether you’re making music, building a podcast, or creating content—your audience is your proof. Your work is your validation. And your growth is your legacy.

Rodes lays out the truth from the heart, making this an episode any aspiring or active artist should hear.

Connect with Rodes

🔗 All Links: Linktr.ee/Rodes 🌐 Official Website: www.rodesonline.net

Hashtags

#RodesLive #TheProof #HipHopCulture #MusicArtistLife #IndependentArtist #PodcastLife #CreativeJourney #WhatsPoppin #FredroStarr #Onyx #RodesLivePodcast #HipHopExecutive #IndieMusic #UndergroundHipHop #ValidationVsApproval #ArtistMotivation #PodcasterLife #SupportIndieCreators

Episode-288 Euro Step Apr 24, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Rodes Live, we tap into a major moment — Rodes is officially booked for his European Tour. From city to city and country to country, Rodes breaks down the full run: 14 days, 9 dates, and an international wave of hip-hop energy on the rise.

As the “What’s Poppin Artist of the Day,” Rodes shares the excitement behind taking his music overseas, the grind it took to get here, and what fans can expect from his performances across Europe.

We also ask the listeners a key question: Do you want the Tremaine EP, the Tremaine Album, or another full-length project around December? Tap in and let your voice be heard — this release is for the fans.

This episode is packed with travel talk, strategy, storytelling, and an inside look at leveling up independently.

Connect with Rodes Live

🔗 www.Linktr.ee/Rodes 🌐 www.rodesonline.net

Hashtags

#RodesLive #EuroRun #EuropeanTour #WhatsPoppinArtistOfTheDay #TremaineEP #TremaineAlbum #IndependentArtist #IndieHipHop #HipHopTour #GlobalHipHop #MusicJourney #TourLife #RodesLiveNetwork #Storytelling #HipHopPodcast #NewMusicAlert #ArtistOnTour #InternationalArtist #RodesOverseas #HipHopCulture

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