Common Thread - Episode 8.2 (Old Skull Skateboards & Paul Phillips)

This two part episode features an interview with the founders and owners of Old Skull Skateboards, Steve Hild and Bob Stolte, and local skate scene personality, Paul Phillips.

Rory and Greg discuss with the guests their respective introductions to skateboarding. This episode features a nostalgic look back at the developments and innovations in skateboarding and skate culture from the 1990s onward, with particular attention paid to the skate scene in Rochester and Fairport during 90s.

We hear about how Bob and Steve made the transition from their typical 9 to 5 jobs to skate shop owners, the story behind the planning and construction of the Perinton Skate Park and the critical role Old Skull played in helping move the project along and bring it into reality.

The group also discusses sharing their love of skateboard with their children and kids in general, and skateboarding's unlikely progression from a taboo activity for social misfits to official Olympic sport that is loved by multiple generations.

Paul touches upon his involvement and participation in Mike Vallely's Street Plant skate team, his various interactions with notable skaters, and how learning to make Instagram videos helped him rise to a place of local prominence in Rochester's skate community.

This interview was recorded on site at Old Skull Skateboards and features 100% authentic skate shop warehouse sounds in the background!