Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
"The argument we were making is why did these, you know, bouts of a mental illness only pop up when he's got to promote some shit and he goes, 'No, no, those are the ones that you hear about.' It's happening all the fucking time, nonstop." — Unnamed Co-host
"And that's the sign of someone who's like truly battling with mental illness, because you push the people away that can check you. And you push the people away that try to check you." — Unnamed Co-host
"The people around you need to play a huge part in your life. Yeah. And I kind of think they do. Like, we kind of heard, but I feel bad for Kim." — Unnamed Co-host
The discussion delves into Kanye West's career and public persona, focusing on the potential impact of his bipolar disorder on his creative output and business dealings. The speakers explore the idea that manic highs, while potentially the source of his artistic brilliance, also lead to erratic behavior that risks valuable brand partnerships like the one with Gap. They contrast this with the perception that these episodes often coincide with promotional periods, leading to questions about whether they are a genuine manifestation of illness or a calculated tactic.
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the complex relationship between West, his associates, and corporate entities such as Gap and Adidas. It's suggested that these companies, often facing their own business challenges, may have embraced partnerships with West precisely because of his controversial nature, seeing the potential for stock surges and increased attention. The speakers also analyze the role of individuals surrounding West, suggesting that many who work with him are those who need something from him, thereby enabling his behavior for personal or professional gain.
Finally, the dialogue touches upon the personal toll of West's situation, particularly on his family members, with specific mention of Kim Kardashian's role in managing his well-being and family dynamics. The speakers consider whether the family's business model, particularly through their reality television show, inadvertently benefits from or even orchestrates some of the chaos surrounding West. The overall sentiment is one of complex empathy, acknowledging the severity of mental illness while also questioning the motivations and actions of those who profit from or enable the situation.