Written by Eric Irby
Podcaster, fashion icon and friend to the brand, Malik Romello is truly one of a kind. From his dazzling personality, quirky referential pop culture responses and defiance against adversity, Malik is an example of not letting life control you, but controlling life.
Following his birthday weekend, we sat with Malik to discuss what turning 30 means to him, the return of his podcast, The Culture Reset and the things he’s unlearning as he enters this new era.
PB: How did you celebrate your 30th birthday?
MR: Thanks! I enjoyed my birthday. I spent it with my partner and family. I had an all-white affair, and it was everything and more! I had a ball.
PB: How does it feel to be 30?
MR: It honestly feels amazing. Even though I feel like “Unc” now—lol—I’m just happy to be in good health. I want to move strategically in life, especially with everything I have coming up.
PB: What’s the biggest mindset shift you’ve had stepping into your 30s?
MR: Turning 30 is honestly eye-opening, because I’m literally entering a new decade. I’m excited to really grow and have my life match.
PB: What inspired The Culture Reset?
MR: The Culture Reset is a creative outlet for myself and Brett. We came up with it naturally—it just made sense. We usually talk about the things we love, even when we have different opinions. What I want people to take from it is simple: just have a good time and laugh. Laughter is the cure for a lot of things, in my opinion.
PB: What can people expect from this new season?
MR: We came back more strategic. I honestly cannot wait for people to watch. It’s going to be AMAZING!
PB: What’s your favorite topic to cover on the show?
MR: Well, of course—female rap! lol. But overall, just pop culture and giving my takes on what’s currently going on in the world.
PB: How do you and Brett maintain your working relationship?
MR: When it comes to TCR, everything is strictly business. We don’t take things personally. We understand our roles on the show and focus on the task at hand.
PB: What would your dream episode look like?
MR: Mariah the Scientist, champagne, good fashions, and fried chicken—lol.
PB: How do you stay grounded through the ups and downs?
MR: I stay optimistic. I know things will have ups and downs, but I remain overall positive. Also—I take my time.
PB: What has podcasting taught you about yourself?
MR: It’s taught me to slow down and enunciate my words. And that my laugh is truly one of a kind—lol.
PB: What does being a content creator mean to you?
MR: Being a content creator means a lot. I think it’s all about setting yourself apart and just genuinely having fun with what you’re putting out to the masses to see.
PB: How would you describe your style in three words?
MR: Oversized, tailored, relaxed.
PB: Who are your style inspirations?
MR: DJ Mustard, Pharrell, and Davon Godchaux.
PB: What’s your go-to outfit?
MR: A nice crisp white t-shirt, jeans, a good pair of shoes, and some killer eyewear.
PB: Do you see style as emotional or aesthetic?
MR: Honestly, I think both. Style lets you express how you feel, or it can shift your mood. It’s a full experience.
PB: Do you follow fashion rules?
MR: I honestly don’t have any—lol. I wear whatever. I don’t care!
PB: What’s your favorite accessory you own?
MR: Probably my Tom Ford shades. They’re my favorite pair—and I own a lot of glasses.
PB: How has your style evolved over time?
MR: My style has become more mature, but it’s still fun. I believe style should come naturally. Just have fun with it.
PB: What’s the biggest misconception people have about you?
MR: A lot of people judge me based on how I look or dress. They create these preconceived notions about me—and they’re never true. I’m literally just a big teddy bear. I have a heart, people—lol.
PB: What’s a quote or belief you live by?
MR: God is love.
PB: How do you define success today?
MR: Success to me now is about healthy relationships—whether with friends or my partner. I truly believe in fostering good connections. I’ve struggled with being a good friend and a good partner, but I’ve honestly gotten much better.
PB: How important is your circle and community?
MR: It plays a huge part. I want to be around like-minded people—people who want better for themselves, want to have a good time, and still handle business.
PB: What’s a boundary you’ve had to set lately?
MR: I’ve had to learn to say no.
PB: What’s something you’re actively unlearning?
MR: I’m unlearning how to not talk so much—lol. Sometimes I talk and jump to conclusions. But if I wait and think, I usually get better results.
PB: If you could relive one moment in your career, what would it be?
MR: Definitely being on Netflix. I had so much fun, and it was the biggest check I ever received in my life—lol.
PB: What advice would you give your younger self?
MR: Take your time. Root for everyone.
PB: What are you prioritizing more in your daily life?
MR: Structure—especially with me going back to school. I want a better balance of relaxation and making myself a priority.
PB: What’s a new habit or practice you want to try?
MR: I want to try meditation.
PB: What are you currently working on?
MR: I have my apparel line Land of Snobs, my kidswear line Yellow Sunday, my YouTube content, and I want to start a charcuterie business!
PB: How do you balance creativity and business?
MR: By creating systems, staying consistent, and keeping everything in alignment with my values.
PB: What’s next for you in this new chapter?
MR: Growth, for real. I’m learning to move with purpose, protect my peace, and still enjoy life.
Check out, The Culture Reset on all streaming platforms!
Credits:
Photography: Joshua Smith (@forjvsh)
Creative Direction: Brett Cummings
Retouch: 904Productions
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