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The spinning wheels of roller skates have their perfect complement in the spinning vinyl of a DJ booth. This fascinating connection comes alive as Steve Gonzalez (DJ Speedy) takes us into the world of skating DJs—a specialized art form that's about far more than just playing songs.

Starting his skating journey in 1979 and picking up DJing in 1982, Steve provides a time capsule of roller skating culture spanning over four decades. He explains the crucial difference between club DJing and rink DJing: "You have to know your crowd and build the music." From his beginnings at Lorain Skate World in Ohio to his current residency at United Skates in Tampa where he draws crowds of 150-200 skaters, Steve's career traces the evolution of both skating and music technologies.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Steve shares how vertigo forced him to hang up his skates in 2019, followed by a heart attack and bypass surgery—physical challenges that transformed but didn't end his relationship with skating culture. Despite these obstacles, his passion for creating the perfect skating atmosphere continues behind the booth.

Music selection emerges as a fascinating topic, with Steve favoring funk classics from artists like Zapp and The Gap Band that perfectly complement shuffle skaters. His assertion that modern music "has no heart" (with exceptions like Bruno Mars) reveals the thoughtful consideration behind every track at the rink. The technological evolution from vinyl to digital platforms has made beat-matching easier but perhaps less artistic—a transition Steve navigated while maintaining his distinctive approach to skating soundtracks.

Whether you're a skating enthusiast curious about what makes rink music work, a DJ interested in specialized venues, or someone fascinated by subcultures that blend physical activity and music, this episode offers rare insights into an art form that keeps the wheels turning. Find DJ Speedy on Facebook to follow his continuing journey at the crossroads of music and motion.

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Ever wondered what makes a great roller rink? Ginger Matthews has skated at 443 of them across North America, making her uniquely qualified to answer that question. Growing up in a family where roller skating wasn't just a hobby but a legacy—her parents met at a rink, her aunt and uncle owned one, and they all contributed significantly to skating culture—Ginger's path to becoming "The Skate Critic" feels almost predetermined.

What began as a personal challenge to skate every rink in California evolved into a comprehensive documentation project tracking America's skating spaces. Today, Ginger maintains extensive databases of active rinks, closed venues, and properties for sale—currently 82 rinks are on the market, ranging from $70,000 to $8 million. Her unique 8-wheel rating system evaluates what really matters to skaters: floor quality, staff professionalism, bathroom cleanliness, snack options, and DJ skills.

The conversation reveals fascinating stories behind some of America's most unique skating venues, including The Oaks in Portland—built on 250 pontoons that allow it to float during floods—and the largest skate floor in the country at Guptill's Arena in New York. Ginger shares industry insights about what makes rinks successful (you need five key elements), how COVID affected the industry (about 100 closures but new openings too), and passionate advice for both new skaters and prospective rink owners.

Beyond the business aspects, this episode explores the deep connection between skating culture and community. Adult skaters become the backbone of successful rinks, offering loyalty and support during tough times. For those considering entering this world, Ginger's advice is clear: invest in proper equipment, respect rink etiquette, and understand that skating, like any worthwhile pursuit, requires dedication rather than shortcuts. Ready to roll into the fascinating world of American roller rinks? This episode is your perfect starting point.

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Physical therapist and competitive speed skater Mike Mason pulls back the curtain on what it takes to excel on wheels, sharing wisdom gained from decades on the track and in the clinic. From his humble beginnings stealing his sister's quad skates in 1980s Florida to becoming a two-time state champion and international competitor, Mike's journey reveals the unexpected parallels between rehabilitation science and athletic performance.

With disarming honesty and plenty of humor, Mike details his spectacular wipeouts (including a triple ankle fracture that would have sidelined most skaters for a year) and his triumphant comebacks. His practical advice for skaters transcends typical training recommendations - learn why tracing the alphabet with your foot might be more valuable than heavy squats, how swimming transformed his racing technique, and why electrolytes can make the difference between finishing a marathon and cramping on the sidelines.

The conversation takes fascinating detours through international racing circuits, from dodging traffic in Chinese cities to competing on the famed Le Mans F1 track in France, where Mike participates in the grueling 24-hour relay race. As the founder of the Florida Inline Skating Marathon, now entering its sixth year as part of the World Inline Cup series, Mike offers an insider's perspective on event organization and building skating communities.

Whether you're a competitive skater looking to shave seconds off your time or a recreational enthusiast wanting to skate pain-free, Mike's blend of clinical expertise and real-world experience delivers actionable insights that will transform your approach to training, recovery, and performance. Ready to upgrade your skating game? This episode is your roadmap.

“Black Label Supplements. Built for athletes who don’t compromise.”
So go to blacklabelsupplements.com and remember to use the code Howdoyousk8 for your 15% discount at checkout.