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No Ceilings with Glasses Malone

The Black Effect Podcast Network and iHeartPodcasts

No Ceilings is hosted by rapper, Crip gang member, and social pundit Glasses Malone with assistance from his co-host Peter Bas. Every week, the two discuss people and things that are despised, loathed, and generally unliked by mainstream society. From prostitutes and white supremacists to Satanists and rapist, No Ceilings examines and attempts to diagnose those things we have labeled as Pariahs. A lifestyle and culture podcast featuring conversations with the intent to sway the pendulum on one’s way of thinking. As individuals are culturally bound to experiences that result in different responses - No Ceilings tough discussions, typically from opposing sides, will break down life’s interpretations.

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22 episodes
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Avg 1 hr 14 min
English

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S6 · E22
Tuesday · 1 hr 12 min
Conversations About The Drop (Ep 5)
Glasses Malone and the No Ceilings crew break down Episode 5 of The Drop, praising Danae/Rochelle’s standout performance, powerful singing moment, and what they consider Emmy-worthy work. They highlight the series’ writing, casting, lighting, and cinematography—particularly how intentionally Black skin tones and silhouettes are captured—while giving credit to the diverse creative team behind the show. The crew digs into Gertie’s painful backstory of being outed and ostracized by her church, exploring how unresolved trauma shapes her parenting, generational cycles, and complicated family relationships. They debate Wanda’s motivations and whether pursuing music goes against Gertie’s wishes, examine nature versus nurture through Lamar and James, and question whether Lamar’s biggest enemy may ultimately be himself as ambition, success, and inexperience collide. The conversation closes with the episode’s “sherm” scene and the realism behind its portrayal of Los Angeles street culture. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E21
September 29 · 1 hr 18 min
Conversations About The Drop (Ep 4): This My Favorite Episode
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew break down Episode 2 of The Drop: A Snowfall Saga, praising its acting, writing, casting, pacing, and authentic 1990s Los Angeles atmosphere. They debate the street politics surrounding the push to build a legitimate music business, call out Tiptoe for failing to back Jay Loco and later “dirty macking,” and highlight Keef as a believable soldier. Dara’s growing presence and explosive confrontation with DG become a major talking point, especially after DG crosses the line with disrespect and brings money into the conflict. The crew also digs into Wanda’s complicated pursuit of redemption and whether her aggressive approach could ultimately work against her, while questioning why Leon continues putting himself at risk for someone repeatedly described as his “ex.” Lamar’s slow-burn storyline raises another debate—is he simply naive about the world around him, or is confidence becoming arrogance? Glasses rounds out the recap with behind-the-scenes stories from The Drop, including the audition process, improvised moments, and a key acting lesson he learned on set: great performances start with actually listening. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E20
September 22 · 1 hr 14 min
Conversations About The Drop (Ep.3)
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew break down Episode 2 of The Drop: A Snowfall Saga, praising its acting, writing, casting, pacing, and authentic 1990s Los Angeles atmosphere. They debate the street politics surrounding the push to build a legitimate music business, call out Tiptoe for failing to back Jay Loco and later “dirty macking,” and highlight Keef as a believable soldier. Dara’s growing presence and explosive confrontation with DG become a major talking point, especially after DG crosses the line with disrespect and brings money into the conflict. The crew also digs into Wanda’s complicated pursuit of redemption and whether her aggressive approach could ultimately work against her, while questioning why Leon continues putting himself at risk for someone repeatedly described as his “ex.” Lamar’s slow-burn storyline raises another debate—is he simply naive about the world around him, or is confidence becoming arrogance? Glasses rounds out the recap with behind-the-scenes stories from The Drop, including the audition process, improvised moments, and a key acting lesson he learned on set: great performances start with actually listening. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E19
September 17 · 1 hr 1 min
Conversations About The Drop (Ep.2)
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew break down Episode 2 of The Drop: A Snowfall Saga, praising its acting, writing, casting, pacing, and authentic 1990s Los Angeles atmosphere. They debate the street politics surrounding the push to build a legitimate music business, call out Tiptoe for failing to back Jay Loco and later “dirty macking,” and highlight Keef as a believable soldier. Dara’s growing presence and explosive confrontation with DG become a major talking point, especially after DG crosses the line with disrespect and brings money into the conflict. The crew also digs into Wanda’s complicated pursuit of redemption and whether her aggressive approach could ultimately work against her, while questioning why Leon continues putting himself at risk for someone repeatedly described as his “ex.” Lamar’s slow-burn storyline raises another debate—is he simply naive about the world around him, or is confidence becoming arrogance? Glasses rounds out the recap with behind-the-scenes stories from The Drop, including the audition process, improvised moments, and a key acting lesson he learned on set: great performances start with actually listening. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E18
September 9 · 50 min
Conversations About The Drop (Ep.1)
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew break down the premiere of The Drop: A Snowfall Saga, praising its pacing, layered storytelling, and authentic depiction of Los Angeles in 1990–91. They unpack tense moments involving neighborhood politics, rival gangs, and a Blood party while highlighting the series’ deeper focus on family, redemption, and hip-hop as a voice for the community. Much of the conversation centers on Wanda confronting her past and the judgment that follows her, Lamar balancing his music ambitions with church and street pressures, and James learning to protect his brother without standing in the way of his dreams. Glasses also shares his experience consulting and writing on The Drop, including learning more about acting by watching the cast and helping bring the culture of the era to life. He celebrates Malcolm Spellman’s vision of creating a Black series with genuine “soul,” from the wardrobe and music to original songs like “Officer Black Man,” while explaining why the show’s attention to family, second chances, and everyday neighborhood dynamics makes it more than another story about violence in Los Angeles. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E17
September 4 · 1 hr 26 min
Conversations About Race Relations
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone breaks down why audio podcasting creates more room for context and nuance than live video streaming, reflecting on how a clipped comment about Pelo was misrepresented online. He distinguishes truly “listening” from simply “hearing,” explaining that his approach to music and media is designed to make audiences think, question perspectives, and develop empathy rather than manufacture emotional reactions. Glasses also reveals his evolving long-term vision for music, detailing a five-to-ten-year strategy around Ultraviolet and an ambitious four-quarter rollout for 110 Custom Culture. He discusses streaming goals, significant marketing investments, and how years of studying the business and working across different shows have strengthened his confidence as an independent artist and entrepreneur. The conversation shifts to Los Angeles culture and controversy surrounding Barrios Athletics’ proposed 5K near Leimert Park, with Glasses arguing that a conversation about local vendors and community participation became part of a much larger debate over gentrification, immigration, and Black economic frustration. He examines why legitimate concerns about displacement and unequal opportunity can become distorted into anti-immigrant or nationalist rhetoric, while emphasizing the need to keep the focus on systemic anti-Blackness rather than turning marginalized communities against one another. Connecting media literacy, cultural preservation, economics, and community accountability, Glasses challenges listeners to move beyond reactionary narratives and think critically about what meaningful change should actually look like. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E16
August 25 · 59 min
Conversations With An Incarcerated Homie
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone breaks down his vision for a new vertical 9:16 mobile series built specifically for phones, featuring fast-paced episodes under two minutes. Inspired in part by the original Gone in 60 Seconds and experiences from his youth, the concept follows a group of older friends who come out of retirement to steal cars, blending street storytelling, filmmaking, and short-form digital entertainment. Glasses explains how the format could introduce a different approach to scripted content while creating stories designed for how audiences increasingly consume entertainment on mobile devices. The episode then shifts to a prison call with filmmaker and actor Omar Ray, also known as Suge Gotti, from Ironwood State Prison, with Lex Diamonds joining the episode. Omar discusses the December 2020 murder case that ultimately led to his 2024 arrest and conviction, while disputing the prosecution's account and alleging inconsistencies involving witness statements, investigators, and the state's proposed drug-deal motive. He shares his perspective on his legal representation, says he is currently appealing the conviction and seeking a new trial, and reflects on the impact incarceration has had on his family and future. Despite his circumstances, Omar emphasizes his history of community involvement and remains focused on returning to filmmaking, youth football outreach, and rebuilding his life if given another opportunity. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E15
August 19 · 58 min
Conversations Where The Homie Is Trippin’
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew dive into a hilarious yet surprisingly passionate debate over one question: Can Ray J actually sing? What begins as a bold comparison from special guest Sega quickly turns into a spirited conversation about vocal ability, artistry, and what truly defines a great singer. Using performances and career highlights from artists like Ray J, Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown, Keith Sweat, Ginuwine, Frank Ocean, and Taylor Swift, the crew debates the difference between vocal talent, tone, performance, and making hit records, with Sega passionately defending Ray J's vocal ability while the rest of the panel remains unconvinced. The lively conversation explores how audiences judge artists, whether technical vocal skill matters more than musical impact, and why some performers become stars despite criticism of their singing. As the debate escalates, the crew challenges Sega to produce undeniable evidence of Ray J's vocal prowess, leading to one of the show's funniest exchanges. Later, special guest P Wilson joins the conversation to discuss his music, introduce himself to listeners, and talk about collaborating with Glasses Malone on their record, "Reflections," adding another layer to an episode filled with music history, spirited opinions, and signature No Ceilings humor. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E14
August 13 · 1 hr
Conversations With Childhood Homies
Glasses Malone breaks down the real difference between growing up broke in Compton versus Watts, why proximity to violence isn't the same as poverty, why he became a gang member, and how you can tell which of your homies had it worse just by walking into their house. It's a look at how trauma and survival shape who people become, wrapped around an hour of a full-on trial over whether King is a real foodie (tartar sauce is Exhibit A), plus a deep dive on the greatest El Camino ever built. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E13
August 5 · 58 min
Conversations With Some Homies
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone and the crew dive into the intersection of hip-hop, fashion, and branding, highlighting Shara and Kev's creative work while debating why simplicity often makes the strongest statement in merchandise design. Glasses breaks down standout pieces from the 110 and Cancel collections, including the raised "T" hat, and explains why overly complicated designs can weaken a brand's identity. The conversation also offers an update on the long-awaited 110 album, plans to complete the project with Akon, and a vision for expanding 110 into a lifestyle movement through merchandise inspired by drag-racing culture with appeal beyond hip-hop. The discussion shifts to West Coast music history as the crew celebrates new music from Kurupt and Battlecat, recognizing Battlecat as one of the architects of the Los Angeles sound and calling for more producer-artist collaborations in the tradition of Battlecat, Snoop Dogg, and Warren G. They also examine hip-hop's DJ and producer-driven origins, how record labels shifted attention toward rappers, and why accountability, loyalty, and collective creativity remain essential to the culture. Ultimately, Glasses explains how 110 represents more than music or merchandise—it's a movement built around togetherness, authenticity, and preserving the values that made hip-hop powerful. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @joeywestside_lagiantz @toptens313 @hejusthigh See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E12
July 29 · 2 hr 13 min
Another Conversation With The Viral Way
In this crossover episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by The Viral Way crew for a candid conversation about community, accountability, and the realities of success. Reflecting on the dangers public figures can face after achieving fame, Glasses explains why returning to the neighborhood requires purpose, structure, and smart decision-making rather than simply proving loyalty. Using examples like Nipsey Hussle and recent acts of neighborhood violence, the panel explores the importance of risk management, organized community investment, and building systems that empower people instead of relying on individuals to carry entire communities. The discussion then pivots to hip-hop's biggest debates, beginning with a breakdown of a hypothetical The Game versus YG Verzuz battle, where the hosts debate catalog strength, song selection, and missed opportunities that turned the matchup into more of a celebration than a competition. The conversation closes with an in-depth discussion about Drake, examining hip-hop authenticity, commercial success, marketing, the impact of his battle with Kendrick Lamar, and the ongoing debate surrounding his legal dispute with UMG. Blending cultural commentary, music industry insight, and unfiltered opinions, this episode delivers the thought-provoking conversations that have become a signature of No Ceilings. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @TheViralWay See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E11
July 22 · 1 hr 4 min
Conversations With A Suburbanite
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by special guest Scottie for a thought-provoking conversation about hip-hop's roots, cultural authenticity, and the evolution of the genre. Glasses reflects on how hip-hop became an outlet that helped him transition away from Los Angeles street life and into music, arguing that the culture has always valued authenticity and lived experience as much as lyrical ability. Together, they explore why hip-hop has historically been drawn to outlaw figures, resilience, and turning struggle into opportunity, while debating whether the genre has become "franchised" to appeal to wider audiences at the expense of its original identity. The conversation expands into the impact of gentrification, rising living costs, and technology on local music scenes, with Glasses and Scottie examining why regional movements—particularly in Los Angeles—don't carry the same cultural influence they once did. They discuss how social media has blurred the line between real life and online personas, creating more conflict while reducing accountability, and share their vision for the future of Suburban LA, including its continued growth and community impact. The episode closes with Glasses addressing a minor misunderstanding with Polyester and reinforcing the importance of preserving culture while embracing the future. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @sbrbnLA See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E10
July 14 · 1 hr 15 min
Conversations About Black Music
Glasses Malone with special guests Dwann B and King discuss what makes someone “real” in hip-hop as accountability and integrity, contrasting principled correction of narratives with online posturing and consequence-free insults. They argue many prominent internet voices aren’t truly of the culture, and that people can’t claim hip-hop when their communities and businesses exclude Black workers. The conversation frames hip-hop as a branch of a longer Black American musical continuum—ragtime, bebop, blues, funk, R&B—built on rebellion, language, and shared experience, while criticizing hip-hop for not honoring foundational artists. They connect today’s conflict-driven streaming culture to technology, education changes, and shifting social norms around responsibility. They also discuss Drake allegedly spending millions on narrative control during an album rollout and debate how audiences reward success and stats over winning, using NBA examples to illustrate competitiveness and sacrifice. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @HeJusthigh See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E9
June 30 · 56 min
Conversations On YG & Tiffany
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by Lex and Trap for a thought-provoking conversation sparked by YG's latest album, The Gentleman's Club, and one of its most controversial storytelling records. The crew examines hip-hop's role in tackling difficult and polarizing subjects, debating whether music should reflect uncomfortable realities or avoid narratives that risk deepening cultural divides. They also break down the song's production, discuss the importance of storytelling in rap, and explore how artists continue to push creative boundaries while addressing complex social issues. The discussion expands into broader conversations about coded language in hip-hop, respect, masculinity, and the responsibility artists have when portraying sensitive topics. Glasses, Lex, and Trap debate what stories remain untold in rap, how audiences interpret controversial art, and whether hip-hop should continue challenging listeners with difficult conversations. The episode closes with a celebration of one of the genre's most influential years, revisiting the lasting impact of classic 1996 releases—including Reasonable Doubt—and reflecting on the albums that helped shape hip-hop's legacy. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E8
June 17 · 52 min
Conversations On Hip Hop, Blacks & Latinos
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by Lex and Trap for a thought-provoking discussion on hip-hop culture, identity, and the ongoing debate surrounding cultural ownership. The conversation examines hip-hop’s origins and influence, responding to commentary from figures such as Lord Jamar and Crazy Legs while exploring questions of legacy, contribution, and recognition within the culture. The discussion also reflects on how hip-hop evolved from a local movement into a global force, and why conversations around identity, representation, and ownership continue to generate strong opinions across generations. The dialogue expands into street culture, generational perspectives, and the historical relationships between different communities within urban America. Glasses, Lex, and Trap discuss contrasting experiences from Los Angeles and New York street culture, parent-child tensions, assimilation, prejudice, and the social dynamics that have shaped how communities identify themselves over time. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E7
June 9 · 1 hr 3 min
Conversations About Victory Lap feat. DJ Hed and Mike & Keys
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by DJ Hed and acclaimed production duo Mike & Keys for a deep dive into the legacy of West Coast hip-hop and the making of Victory Lap. The conversation traces the evolution of West Coast rap from the post-G-funk era through movements like hyphy, jerk, and ratchet music, while examining how blogs, digital media, and the internet helped reshape the region’s identity. Glasses also reflects on his own reluctance to embrace social media and podcasting before encouragement from Charlamagne Tha God led him to expand his platform during the pandemic. The discussion offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into the creative process behind Victory Lap and the vision of Nipsey Hussle. Mike & Keys share stories from their early days in San Diego studios to producing for artists such as Xzibit and Dom Kennedy, while the group breaks down song selections, sequencing decisions, unreleased records, and the near exclusion of “Double Up” due to sample clearance costs. Blending music history, industry knowledge, and personal memories, this episode highlights the importance of ownership, authenticity, and preserving artistic vision in hip-hop culture. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E6
June 4 · 1 hr 39 min
Did Drake Attempt To Start A Bay Area Vs Los Angeles War? feat. Yukmouth Part. 1
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by West Coast rap veteran Yukmouth for a passionate conversation about hip-hop history, regional pride, and the ongoing debate surrounding West Coast unity. The discussion celebrates the legacy of Luniz and the cultural impact of “I Got 5 on It,” while exploring the influence of Bay Area and Los Angeles artists on the broader hip-hop landscape. Glasses and Yukmouth also unpack the controversy surrounding Drake’s use of a Mac Dre-inspired record produced by P-Lo, debating whether the surrounding discourse has fueled unnecessary Bay Area versus Los Angeles tensions. The conversation expands into media accountability, social media narratives, and the growing influence of bots, algorithms, and online perception in shaping public opinion. Glasses and Yukmouth discuss the difference between journalism and choosing sides, the meaning of “keeping it P,” and the importance of properly honoring hip-hop history and its pioneers. The episode also addresses commentary surrounding Tupac Shakur’s legacy, the value of authenticity in music culture, and the need for unity rather than division within West Coast hip-hop. Blending cultural commentary, industry insight, and unfiltered conversation, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at loyalty, influence, and preserving the integrity of the culture. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @regimegeneral See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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May 29 · 1 hr 58 min
[BONUS] No Ceilings Live: Snoop Calls In, Glasses Speaks Out
In this episode of No Ceilings Live, Glasses Malone and the crew pull listeners behind the scenes as they map out plans for the evolving CCS/Crip Store space, discussing everything from studio design and vinyl flooring to retail displays, DJ booth concepts, and exclusive autographed gangster-rap memorabilia. What begins as a conversation about music quickly expands into entrepreneurship, brand building, and creating a cultural hub that reflects the history and influence of West Coast hip-hop. The crew also addresses the realities of online discourse, pushing back against social media-fueled narratives, manufactured rivalries, and the pressure to constantly “pick sides” in artist conflicts. The episode takes a more personal turn as Glasses shares an emotional update on his brother Moses, reflecting on the challenges, frustrations, and resilience that come with a long recovery journey. Later, Snoop Dogg joins the conversation to address royalty disputes involving Daz Dillinger, breaking down music industry realities such as advances, recoupment, publishing, and artist compensation. Blending personal reflection, business insight, and hip-hop industry transparency, this episode offers a raw look at family, loyalty, entrepreneurship, and navigating conflict both online and behind the scenes. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E5
May 26 · 43 min
Conversations With A Hollywood Writer
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with writer and showrunner Malcolm Spellman for an in-depth conversation about Hollywood, storytelling, and the realities of large-scale television production. Spellman breaks down how major productions operate like “300-person machines,” with union dynamics, departmental politics, and the immense pressure placed on showrunners when projects succeed or fail. The discussion explores what makes timeless storytelling resonate, with praise for The Wire as a groundbreaking example of authentic, layered writing, while also unpacking how long-running shows often struggle to maintain quality without “jumping the shark.” The conversation also dives into Malcolm Spellman’s unconventional journey into the entertainment industry, from selling a spec script to building a résumé that includes Empire, Truth Be Told, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Hip Hop Uncovered, Captain America: Brave New World, Bel-Air, and Snowfall. Together, they discuss how technology and streaming have shifted music and film into market-share businesses, while highlighting the importance of preserving authenticity and human storytelling in hip-hop and entertainment culture. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @malcolm_spellman See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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S6 · E4
May 19 · 1 hr 13 min
Conversation With Mackwop
In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with Mackwop of Top Dawg Entertainment for a candid conversation about hip-hop, branding, and the realities of building a career in music. Mackwop reflects on “falling into” rap before realizing how much he still needed to learn about the business side of the culture—from understanding BPMs and hit records to marketing, branding, and artist development. He shares stories about early mentorship, creating records like “200,” quitting his job to fully pursue music, and approaching early label deals with a hustler mentality instead of a long-term artistic vision. The discussion also explores the evolution of streaming, podcasting, and independent media following projects like Tupac Must Die, an iHeartMedia podcast deal, personal setbacks, and the release of Cancelled. Mackwop and Glasses unpack how digital platforms have become more difficult yet more powerful for shaping identity, building community, and giving outsiders a fuller perspective on street culture. They also critique the rise of “hood vlogs,” the commercialization of street credibility, and the lack of accountability surrounding cultural exploitation—delivering a raw conversation on authenticity, survival, and protecting the integrity of hip-hop culture. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @mackwop See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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