Alcohol, Education, and the Spirit of LA

Dom L'Amour speaks with Jacob Buckenmyer (@jabucke) about Drinking, The California Fires, Education and so much more!

What happens when you mix the heart of Los Angeles with an exploration of emotions, food, and culture? I'm joined by my friend Jacob Buckenmyer to unpack the myths surrounding LA’s identity, especially in the face of the California fires, and to challenge the stereotype of it being just a playground for the elites. We dive into our personal journeys with alcohol, from growing up in a dry household to those wake-up calls that made us rethink our habits. Jacob’s stories are both candid and relatable, painting a picture of how environments and experiences shape our perceptions and choices.
Food lovers, prepare to challenge your understanding of dining! We share contrasts between Italian leisurely meals and the fast-paced American food culture, inviting you to rethink what it means to truly savor a meal. Our conversation touches on deeper themes of generational influences and how the scarcity mindset can shape our approach to food. These reflections serve as a springboard to discuss the broader cultural narratives that influence our consumption habits and how childhood teachings linger into adulthood.
We also venture into the educational landscape, highlighting the gaps in traditional teaching methods and the need for practical life skills in school curriculums. The conversation shifts toward political discourse and the resilience found within LA’s diverse communities. With a spirited nod to the film industry and the Star Wars saga, we celebrate storytelling, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of Los Angeles, revealing a city that is much more than its Hollywood facade. Join us in reflecting on the narratives that shape our world and the communities that bring them to life.

Opening quote: MLK

Opening and Closing Theme song: Produced by Dom L'Amour

Transition Music from Mad Chops Vol. 1 and Mad Chops Vol. 2 by Mad Keys

and

from Piano Soul Vol.1(Loop Pack) by The Modern Producers Team

Featured song: "I Will Always Be Loving You" Lyrics by Dom L'Amour, Music by Mike Harvey

Cover art by Studio Mania: Custom Art @studiomania99

Please subscribe to the podcast, and give us a good rating. 5 stars please and thank you. Follow me on @dom_lamour on Instagram. Or at

Dom L'Amour speaks with Jacob Buckenmyer (@jabucke) about Drinking, The California Fires, Education and so much more!

Opening quote: MLK

Opening and Closing Theme song: Produced by Dom L'Amour

Transition Music from Mad Chops Vol. 1 and Mad Chops Vol. 2 by Mad Keys

and

from Piano Soul Vol.1(Loop Pack) by The Modern Producers Team

Featured song: "I Will Always Be Loving You" Lyrics by Dom L'Amour, Music by Mike Harvey

Cover art by Studio Mania: Custom Art @studiomania99

Please subscribe to the podcast, and give us a good rating. 5 stars please and thank you. Follow me on @dom_lamour on Instagram. Or at

Previous Episode

Kendrick vs Drake: Artistic Rivalry and Hip-Hop's Cultural Impact with Jon Butts

Dom L'Amour speaks with Friend of the show J Boogie AKA Jon Butts AKA @jonbuttsishere!

Can Kendrick Lamar's lyrical genius outshine Drake's chart-topping dominance? Join us on the Black Man Talking Emotions podcast as we navigate this intricate rivalry with our insightful guest, Jon Butts. We'll revisit the explosive moment Kendrick's "control" verse shook the hip-hop world and dissect how the tension between these two titans illuminates the fine line between pure artistry and commercial success. While unpacking their professional dynamics, we also weigh in on public perceptions of other influential figures like Young Thug and Sexy Red, offering fresh insights into the ever-evolving hip-hop landscape.
In our heartfelt exploration of Kendrick Lamar's discography, we celebrate the monumental impact of albums like "To Pimp a Butterfly" and "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City," sharing personal reflections on their storytelling prowess. The conversation takes a critical turn as we scrutinize Drake's reliance on ghostwriters, particularly in "Take Care," and question how this practice measures up against the self-written standards set by hip-hop legends like LL Cool J and Rakim. With comparisons to Kanye West's "Graduation," we ponder the balance between mainstream appeal and thematic depth in contemporary hip-hop.
Bringing warmth and personal touch, we shift to notable moments within the hip-hop community, examining Drake's relationship with Lil Wayne and the broader cultural impact of events like Kendrick's Super Bowl performance. We also consider the influence of hip-hop on personal identities and cultural narratives, reflecting on the communal spirit of the Los Angeles Lakers and the legacies of Kobe Bryant and Nipsey Hussle. From artistic beefs to independent music endeavors, this episode captures the essence of hip-hop's vibrant culture, its challenges, and its ongoing evolution.

Opening quote: Kendrick Lamarr

Opening and Closing Theme song: Produced by Dom L'Amour

Transition Music from Mad Chops Vol. 1 and Mad Chops Vol. 2 by Mad Keys

and

from Piano Soul Vol.1(Loop Pack) by The Modern Producers Team

Featured song: "Valentines Day" By Dom L'Amour

Cover art by Studio Mania: Custom Art @studiomania99

Please subscribe to the podcast, and give us a good rating. 5 stars please and thank you. Follow me on @dom_lamour on Instagram. Or at

Next Episode

Finding Balance: Self-Care, Music, and Pandemic Lessons with Michael Harvey

Amid the chaos of the music industry, how does one find the perfect equilibrium between self-care and discipline? Join me and my good friend, musician Michael Harvey, as we unravel this balancing act on the Black Man Talking Emotions podcast. We explore the crucial role of self-care practices like journaling, therapy, and meditation while emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and taking time for yourself outside of work. Discover how paying attention to the details, whether in music or life, becomes a game-changer in maintaining happiness and harmony.
The pandemic reshaped lives globally, and the St. Louis music community was no exception. We share personal anecdotes about navigating through the pandemic's challenges, from the shared panic at grocery stores to the somber losses within our music family. Yet amid the turmoil, opportunities emerged—new collaborations on country music projects and mixing church broadcasts, to name a few. Our reflections highlight the pandemic's dual nature, as a time of both loss and unexpected growth, reminding us of the shifting landscapes we now inhabit.
As we venture into professionalism and discipline, parallels emerge between a band and a basketball team: each member has a unique role contributing to the greater success. We reminisce about wedding gigs, where dedication and preparation were key to delivering standout performances. Recording studio memories offer a glimpse into a journey fueled by musical chemistry and creative freedom, celebrating unexpected talents and cherished collaborations. As the episode wraps up, gratitude flows for our listeners and supporters, inviting them to continue this journey of boundless music-making and connection.

Opening quote: Plato

Opening and Closing Theme song: Produced by Dom L'Amour

Transition Music from Mad Chops Vol. 1 and Mad Chops Vol. 2 by Mad Keys

and

from Piano Soul Vol.1(Loop Pack) by The Modern Producers Team

Featured song: "You Are Mine to Lose" Lyrics by Dom L'Amour, Music by Mike Harvey

Cover art by Studio Mania: Custom Art @studiomania99

Please subscribe to the podcast, and give us a good rating. 5 stars please and thank you. Follow me on @dom_lamour on Instagram. Or at