Wiz Khalifa
Reflections for the Modern Man
Hey, what’s up? It’s your boy, Wiz Khalifa. Thanks for having me be a part of this project. You know, helping young men find their voice and their place in the world is something I’m really passionate about. Life can get pretty wild out here, and I’ve been through my share of ups and downs. I want to share what I’ve learned along the way, hoping it can inspire and guide others. You can always reach out to me on my socials, @wizkhalifa, or hit up my website at www.wizkhalifa.com. Now, let’s get into it.
Hey Wiz, it is great to have you with us today sharing your perspectives on modern masculinity. What does being a man in today's world mean to you?
Hey, it's great to be here. Being a man in today’s world means embracing a full spectrum of emotions and experiences. It's not about fitting into a rigid definition of masculinity but being true to yourself. To me, it’s about strength and vulnerability, ambition and compassion, toughness and tenderness. It's about being a good father, a good friend, and a good partner.
In today’s world, being a man means respecting others and standing up for what you believe in, but also being open to learning and growing. It’s about finding your passion, working hard, and making a positive impact. Most importantly, it’s about authenticity—being real with yourself and others, no matter what.
How have your personal experiences shaped your understanding of masculinity?
My personal experiences have had a huge impact on how I understand masculinity. Growing up, I faced a lot of challenges and pressures to fit into a certain mold of what a man should be. But as I grew older, especially through my music career and becoming a father, I started to see things differently.
Losing people I cared about, dealing with the highs and lows of fame, and navigating relationships taught me that real strength comes from being true to yourself and embracing your emotions. When my son was born, it changed everything. I wanted to be the best dad I could be, which meant being present, loving, and open with him.
In the music industry, there’s this pressure to always look tough and keep your guard up. But I realized that showing my true self, my struggles, and my growth, connected me more with my fans. It showed them that it’s okay to be real and that everyone has their battles.
So, my experiences taught me that masculinity is about balance. It’s about being strong but also knowing when to be soft, being confident but also humble, and always striving to be the best version of yourself.
In what ways have traditional gender roles influenced your life and career?
Traditional gender roles have definitely played a part in shaping my life and career, both positively and negatively. Growing up, there was this expectation to be tough and handle everything on my own. In a way, that pressure helped build my resilience and drive. It pushed me to work hard and stay focused, especially in an industry that’s so competitive.
But on the flip side, those same expectations can be limiting. Early in my career, I felt like I had to put on a persona of always being cool and in control, even when I was dealing with personal struggles or doubts. There’s a lot of pressure to conform to this image of what a successful man in the music industry should look like—strong, fearless, and always winning.
As I grew older and more secure in who I am, I started to challenge those traditional roles. I began to open up more in my music, sharing my vulnerabilities and personal experiences. Songs about love, heartbreak, and even loss allowed me to connect with my audience on a deeper level. I realized that showing vulnerability didn’t make me less of a man; it made me more relatable and real.
In my personal life, breaking away from traditional roles meant being more present and involved as a father, not just as a provider. It’s about showing my son that it’s okay to express his emotions and be himself. It’s about being a partner who listens and supports, rather than just leading.
Ultimately, while traditional gender roles set certain expectations, breaking free from them has allowed me to grow into a more authentic and well-rounded person.
How can men positively engage with the evolving concepts of gender roles?
For me, it’s all about being true to yourself and staying open to change. Men can engage with these evolving gender roles by embracing vulnerability. It’s cool to be honest about your feelings and struggles. That’s what builds real connections and deepens relationships.
Listening is huge, too. When you listen to the experiences of women and non-binary folks, you start to understand their perspectives and what they go through. It helps you see the world differently and fosters empathy and respect.
Supporting equality is where it’s at. In your workplace, at home, in your community, make sure everyone’s treated fairly and with respect. Challenge those outdated stereotypes and behaviors by leading through example. Show that real strength comes from being authentic and compassionate.
When you embrace these evolving concepts, you’re not just improving your own life but also helping to create a more balanced and respectful society. Stay open to learning and be committed to making a positive impact wherever you go. That’s how we move forward together.
How has education shaped your journey and what non-academic knowledge do you think is crucial for young men today?
Education has been a big part of my journey, but not just in the traditional academic sense. While school taught me the basics and gave me a foundation, a lot of my real education came from life experiences, the streets, and the music industry. Learning how to navigate different environments, understanding people, and figuring out how to turn my passion into a career were all crucial lessons I picked up outside the classroom.
For young men today, non-academic knowledge is just as important, if not more so. Street smarts, emotional intelligence, and practical skills are key. Knowing how to handle yourself in different situations, being able to read people, and understanding how to communicate effectively can take you far. It’s about learning how to hustle, how to stay resilient when things get tough, and how to adapt to changing circumstances.
Financial literacy is another big one. Understanding how money works, how to save, invest, and manage your finances is crucial. It’s something a lot of us don’t get taught in school, but it’s vital for long-term success and stability.
Also, mental health awareness is huge. Recognizing the importance of taking care of your mind, dealing with stress, and seeking help when you need it can’t be overstated. It’s okay to not be okay, and knowing how to manage your mental health is crucial for overall well-being.
So, while traditional education lays the groundwork, it’s the lessons you learn from life, from your experiences, and from the people around you that really shape who you are and where you’re going. Stay curious, stay open to learning, and never stop growing.
What advice would you give to young men about choosing and building a career and how important is it to align one's career with one's values in today's world?
Choosing and building a career is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and my advice is to follow your passion but also stay practical. When you’re doing something you love, it doesn’t feel like work, and you’re more likely to put in the effort needed to succeed. But you also have to think about sustainability—how can you turn your passion into something that supports you and your goals long-term?
Aligning your career with your values is crucial, especially in today’s world. When your work reflects who you are and what you believe in, you find deeper fulfillment and purpose. It’s not just about making money; it’s about making an impact and doing something that feels meaningful to you. This alignment helps you stay motivated, even when things get tough.
For me, music was always my passion, but I also knew I had to be smart about it. I focused on building a brand, understanding the business side of things, and making connections. I stayed true to my values by creating music that felt authentic and by being real with my fans. This authenticity resonated with people and helped me build a loyal following.
Young men should take the time to really understand what they care about and what drives them. Don’t be afraid to take risks and explore different paths, but always stay grounded in your core values. Network, learn from others, and be willing to adapt as you grow.
Remember, success isn’t just about reaching the top, it’s about enjoying the journey and staying true to yourself along the way. Find a balance between your dreams and the practical steps needed to achieve them, and you’ll build a career that’s not only successful but also deeply satisfying.
Can you share a time when you felt vulnerable and how you dealt with it?
Yeah, for sure. One of the most vulnerable times in my life was when I lost my close friend and fellow artist, Mac Miller. His passing hit me hard, and it was a moment where I felt a deep sense of loss and sadness. It wasn’t just about losing a friend; it was a reminder of how fragile life is and how important it is to cherish the people around you.
Dealing with that vulnerability was tough. I had to let myself feel the pain and not try to bottle it up or hide it. I turned to my music as an outlet, expressing my emotions through my songs. Writing and recording became a form of therapy for me, helping me process the grief and find some sense of peace.
I also leaned on my close friends and family for support. Talking about my feelings and sharing memories of Mac helped me work through the sadness. It’s important to have a strong support system and not be afraid to reach out when you need help.
Another thing that helped was taking care of my mental and physical health. I made sure to stay active, meditate, and focus on positive habits. It’s easy to get lost in negative emotions, but maintaining a healthy routine helped me stay grounded.
Ultimately, embracing that vulnerability made me stronger. It reminded me of the importance of being open about my feelings and staying connected with the people who matter most. Life is full of ups and downs, and it’s okay to feel vulnerable sometimes. What’s important is how you deal with it and the lessons you take from those experiences.
Why do you think it is important for men to discuss and address their mental health? I mean it can be a sensitive subject, especially on the streets.
Absolutely, discussing mental health can be a tough subject, especially in environments where showing any sign of vulnerability might be seen as a weakness. But that's exactly why it's so important for men to address it.
First off, mental health is just as crucial as physical health. When you're not taking care of your mind, it affects every aspect of your life—your relationships, your work, your overall well-being. Ignoring mental health issues can lead to bigger problems down the line, like depression, anxiety, or even substance abuse.
In places like the streets, where toughness and resilience are often prized, there's this pressure to keep everything inside and not show any cracks. But bottling up emotions doesn't make them go away. In fact, it can make things worse. When men talk about their mental health, it helps break down the stigma that says we have to be strong and silent. It opens up a space where it's okay to not be okay.
Addressing mental health isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. It takes a lot of courage to admit when you're struggling and to seek help. Whether it's talking to a friend, a family member, or a professional, these conversations can make a huge difference.
For me, music has always been a way to express what I'm feeling and to connect with others who might be going through the same thing. Sharing your story can be powerful. It lets others know they're not alone and that it's okay to reach out for support.
In the end, taking care of your mental health is about being the best version of yourself. It's about living a balanced, fulfilling life and being there for the people who depend on you. So, yeah, it can be a sensitive subject, but it's one that we need to bring into the light. The more we talk about it, the more we can support each other and build a community where everyone can thrive.
What role do you see men having in fostering an inclusive society?
Men play a huge role in fostering an inclusive society, no doubt. It starts with recognizing that everyone deserves respect and equal opportunities, no matter their gender, race, or background. As men, we gotta use our influence to lead with empathy, respect, and an open mind.
First, we gotta challenge those outdated stereotypes and behaviors that keep people down. Standing up against sexism, racism, and any form of discrimination is key. Whether it’s at work, in our social circles, or at home, we need to call out inappropriate behavior and support those who are marginalized. That’s how we create a more inclusive vibe.
In our personal lives, it’s about practicing and modeling inclusive behavior. Listening to and valuing the perspectives of women and people from different backgrounds is crucial. Encouraging open dialogue and being willing to learn from others helps build mutual understanding and respect.
In the professional world, men can push for policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion. This means mentoring and supporting colleagues from underrepresented groups, making sure hiring practices are fair, and creating a culture where everyone feels valued and heard. In the music industry, for instance, I make it a point to collaborate with diverse artists and support new talents from all walks of life.
Educating ourselves and others is part of the deal too. Being aware of our own biases and actively working to overcome them is key. We can use our platforms, whether big or small, to spread awareness and support initiatives that drive positive change.
At the end of the day, fostering an inclusive society is about building a community where everyone feels they belong. It’s about creating spaces where people can be themselves without fear of judgment or exclusion. As men, we gotta use our voices and actions to uplift others and pave the way for a more equitable and compassionate world. That’s how we thrive together.
Can you share an experience where understanding diversity impacted your personal or professional life?
For sure. One experience that really stands out for me is when I started working with different artists from various backgrounds early in my career. I remember collaborating with artists who brought completely different styles and perspectives to the table. At first, it was a bit challenging because we all had different ways of approaching music, but it ended up being one of the most enriching experiences of my life.
Working with diverse artists opened my eyes to so many new ideas and ways of thinking. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I learned to appreciate different cultures and the unique stories each artist brought to their music. This not only broadened my musical horizons but also made me more open and adaptable.
One specific collaboration that had a big impact on me was with a reggae artist. Their approach to music was so different from mine, but it was amazing to see how our styles could blend together to create something new and fresh. This experience taught me the value of diversity and how it can lead to innovation and creativity. It showed me that embracing different perspectives can lead to incredible growth and success.
On a personal level, understanding diversity has made me more empathetic and compassionate. It’s helped me build stronger relationships with people from all walks of life and has taught me the importance of listening and valuing everyone’s experiences. Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a powerful force that can bring people together and drive positive change.
So, embracing diversity has not only enriched my music but also made me a better person. It’s taught me that our differences are our strengths, and by celebrating them, we can create something truly special.
How do you approach building meaningful relationships in your life?
Building meaningful relationships in my life starts with being genuine and open. I’ve learned that the best connections come from being real with people, showing them who you truly are, and being willing to see them for who they are. It’s about honesty, trust, and mutual respect.
In my career and personal life, I make it a point to listen and be present. Whether it's with my family, friends, or colleagues, I try to really hear what they’re saying and understand their perspectives. This means putting away distractions and giving them my full attention. It’s about showing up for the people you care about, even in the small moments.
What does compassion look like in modern manhood?
Compassion in modern manhood is about breaking down those old barriers that say men can’t be caring or empathetic. It’s about recognizing that showing kindness and understanding isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. Being compassionate means being there for others, offering support, and sometimes just being a shoulder to lean on. It’s about understanding that everyone has their struggles and that offering a helping hand can make a big difference.
For me, compassion also means giving back to the community. I’ve been blessed with a lot of success, and I feel a responsibility to use that to help others. Whether it’s through charity work, supporting upcoming artists, or just spreading positivity through my music, I try to make an impact. It’s about using your platform and influence to uplift others and make the world a better place.
In modern manhood, compassion looks like being emotionally available, respecting others, and taking action to support those in need. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. By leading with empathy and kindness, men can build stronger, more meaningful relationships and contribute to a more compassionate society.
What has been your biggest challenge, and what did you learn from overcoming it and how can facing challenges be a source of growth for young men?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was navigating the pressures of fame while staying true to myself. When you rise to prominence, especially in the music industry, there’s a lot of pressure to fit a certain image and meet everyone’s expectations. It’s easy to lose sight of who you are in the process.
For me, the turning point was realizing that I didn’t have to conform to anyone else’s idea of who I should be. I had to learn to balance the demands of my career with my personal values and authenticity. This wasn’t easy, and it took time, but it taught me some crucial lessons about self-awareness and resilience.
One key lesson I learned was the importance of staying grounded. No matter how high you climb, you’ve got to stay connected to your roots and the people who keep you real. For me, that’s my family, my close friends, and my son. They remind me of what truly matters and keep me focused on what’s important.
Facing this challenge helped me grow in ways I never expected. It taught me that authenticity is powerful. When you’re true to yourself, people resonate with that, and it creates a deeper connection with your audience and those around you. It also taught me resilience. The path to success is never smooth, and it’s those bumps and hurdles that shape you and make you stronger.
For young men, facing challenges head-on can be a huge source of growth. It’s through adversity that you discover your strengths and learn what you’re capable of. Challenges push you out of your comfort zone and force you to develop new skills and perspectives. They teach you patience, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to your values.
So, don’t shy away from difficulties. Embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow. Each challenge is a stepping stone to becoming a better version of yourself. It’s all part of the journey, and the lessons you learn along the way are what make you who you are. Keep pushing forward, stay true to yourself, and let every challenge you face be a catalyst for growth.
How do you envision the future of masculinity?
I see the future of masculinity as something much more flexible and inclusive than it’s been in the past. We're moving away from those old, rigid definitions of what it means to be a man, and that's a good thing. In the future, masculinity is going to be about authenticity, balance, and emotional intelligence.
Guys are going to feel more comfortable expressing their feelings and being vulnerable. It’s going to be cool to talk about mental health, show empathy, and support each other. Men will be seen not just as providers or protectors, but as nurturers and partners who value equality and respect.
I also think the future of masculinity involves embracing diversity in all its forms. Men from different backgrounds, cultures, and identities will bring their unique perspectives to the table, enriching our understanding of what it means to be a man. This diversity will make us stronger and more resilient.
In terms of relationships, men will be more open and communicative, building deeper connections with their partners, friends, and families. This will create healthier, more supportive environments where everyone can thrive.
Professionally, men will lead with compassion and collaboration, breaking down those old hierarchies and creating workplaces where everyone’s contributions are valued. This shift will lead to more innovative and dynamic teams.
Ultimately, the future of masculinity is about breaking free from stereotypes and embracing a more holistic, inclusive view of manhood. It’s about being true to yourself, respecting others, and creating a world where everyone can be their authentic selves. I’m excited to see where we go from here because I think it’s going to be a positive and powerful evolution.
What changes do you hope to see in societal attitudes towards men and their roles?
I want to see society chill out on the rigid expectations of what it means to be a man. There’s been way too much pressure on guys to always be tough, never show emotion, and fit into this narrow box. It’s time to break out of that.
First, it’s about making it okay for men to show their emotions. It’s wild how we’ve been taught to keep everything bottled up. Being able to express how you feel, whether it’s happiness, sadness, or anything in between, is crucial. It’s not a weakness—it’s real strength. So, I hope we see more men feeling comfortable talking about their feelings and seeking help when they need it.
I also want to see men taking on roles that might not have been considered “manly” before without catching any flak for it. Like, if you want to be a stay-at-home dad, or you’re into cooking or fashion, do your thing. Everyone should be free to pursue what makes them happy and fulfilled without worrying about fitting some outdated stereotype.
Mental health is another big one. There’s still a lot of stigma around men getting help for mental health issues. We need to change that narrative. Therapy, talking about your struggles, taking care of your mental well-being—that should all be normalized. I hope we see more resources and open conversations about this.
In relationships, it’s about balance and equality. Men should be seen as equal partners in every aspect—parenting, household responsibilities, emotional support. A balanced partnership leads to stronger, healthier relationships.
And of course, diversity and inclusion are key. Men should be allies in the fight for gender equality, standing up against all forms of discrimination. It’s about creating a society where everyone gets the respect and opportunities they deserve.
At the end of the day, it’s about authenticity. I want to see a world where men can be their true selves, express a full range of emotions, and take on roles that fulfill them without any judgment. That’s the kind of change I hope to see.
I'm gonna put you on the spot here and ask if you could send a message to young men today and reflecting on their path forward towards the future through the power of your lyrics what would that sound like?
Alright, let’s get into it. If I had to send a message to young men today through my lyrics, it would go something like this.
Yo, listen up, young kings, this one’s for you,
Life's a journey, so stay true to what you do,
Don't let the world tell you who you gotta be,
Break the mold, be bold, and set yourself free.
It's okay to feel, to shed a tear or two,
Show your heart, let it out, that’s the real you.
Strength ain't in the silence, it's in the voice,
In the way you rise up, and make your own choice.
Respect yourself, respect others too,
We're all in this together, me and you.
Lift each other up, don’t tear each other down,
Wear your crown with pride, and lose the frown.
Chase your dreams, but don't forget your soul,
Stay grounded, stay humble, that's the goal.
In a world that's changing, be the change you seek,
Strong minds, open hearts, that's the peak.
So here's to the future, bright and wide,
With you leading the way, with strength and pride.
Keep pushing forward, never lose sight,
Shine on, young kings, and ignite the night.
Wow, that was amazing. I guess that is why you are the king. You are big proponent of weed, how does that fit in with being a modern man?
Appreciate the love, man. When it comes to weed, it’s about balance and being responsible. For me, cannabis is a part of my lifestyle that helps me relax, spark creativity, and stay grounded. It’s not about fitting a certain image or following a trend—it’s about knowing yourself and what works for you.
As a modern man, it’s important to make informed choices and understand how what you do impacts your life and the people around you. Cannabis has a lot of benefits, but it’s also something that needs to be respected. It’s about using it in a way that enhances your life, not controls it.
I’m a big advocate for the legalization and responsible use of cannabis. There’s a lot of outdated stigma around it, but we’re seeing a shift as more people recognize its medicinal and recreational benefits. Education is key here. Understanding the effects, knowing the laws, and being mindful of your consumption are all part of being responsible.
For young men, it’s important to stay informed and make choices that align with your values and lifestyle. If cannabis is something you’re interested in, do your research, understand the benefits and risks, and use it in a way that supports your goals and well-being.
Being a modern man is about being true to yourself and making choices that reflect who you are. It’s about balance, responsibility, and understanding that every action has an impact. Whether it’s cannabis or any other part of your lifestyle, it’s all about finding what works for you and living your truth.
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Thank you so much for joining us today Wiz and sharing your reflections for the modern man. To wrap up I always like to ask, if you magically turned 18 today and you could give yourself only three pieces of advice what would that be?
Much love, man. If I could go back to being 18 and give myself three pieces of advice, here’s what I’d say:
First, stay true to yourself. There will be a lot of voices trying to tell you who to be and how to act, but the most important voice is your own. Trust your instincts, follow your passions, and don’t compromise your values for anyone or anything.
Second, embrace the journey, not just the destination. Life is full of ups and downs, and each experience, whether good or bad, is a lesson. Appreciate the grind, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate your victories, no matter how small they seem. It’s all part of the process of becoming who you’re meant to be.
Finally, surround yourself with good people. Your circle can make or break you, so choose your friends and collaborators wisely. Be around those who inspire you, challenge you, and support you. Positive energy is contagious, and having a strong support system will keep you grounded and motivated.
Those are the keys, man. Stay true, enjoy the ride, and keep good people close. That’s how you thrive. Peace and blessings.