Mikey Taylor had an unexpected reunion that brought back some major memories.
The former pro skater and entrepreneur crossed paths with his first boss, Kareem Campbell, more than two decades after getting his first taste of business under Campbell’s guidance.
Taylor took to social media to share the moment, reflecting on the impact Campbell had on his career.
Back in the day, Kareem wasn’t just a legendary skater. He was a businessman who knew how to navigate deals and build brands.
One of the biggest lessons he passed on to Taylor was how to negotiate. When Taylor landed a deal with E’s Shoes, it was Campbell who showed him how to leverage his value and secure better terms. But beyond just making money, Kareem instilled something bigger—the importance of ownership.
For many young skaters in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, Campbell was more than just a pro with a smooth style and legendary tricks.
He was a mentor who understood the business side of skateboarding, something that wasn’t always talked about back then.
While most skaters were just stoked to get free product or a paycheck, Campbell was thinking bigger.
He saw the value in owning brands, creating opportunities beyond sponsorships, and making sure skaters had a future beyond their years on a board.
That mindset stuck with Taylor, shaping the way he approached his own career as he transitioned from pro skater to entrepreneur.
Fast forward 23 years, and Taylor isn’t just skating anymore. He’s on stage at Barton Damer’s 15-year anniversary event for Already Been Chewed, talking about building companies.
It’s a full-circle moment. One that highlights how those early lessons shaped his future. The event itself was a celebration of creativity and business growth, making it a fitting place for Taylor to reflect on how far he’d come.
While he once looked up to Campbell for advice on contracts and sponsorships, now he’s the one sharing knowledge, helping others understand the importance of making smart business moves.
Taylor ended his post with gratitude, thanking both skateboarding and Campbell for the influence they had on his life. It’s a reminder that moments like these aren’t just about nostalgia.
They show how the people who guide us early on can shape everything that comes next. Seeing two generations reconnect like this highlights how skateboarding is more than just a pastime. It’s a culture, a community, and for those who embrace it fully, a lifelong career.
This reunion wasn’t just about looking back. It was about recognizing the power of mentorship, learning, and carrying those lessons forward.
Campbell played a huge role in opening doors for skaters to think beyond just tricks and video parts. Now, as Taylor continues to grow in the business world, he’s passing those same ideas down to the next generation, keeping the cycle going.
Mikey Taylor Posted:
"I ran into my first boss last night!
Kareem was incredibly influential in my life. He negotiated my first deal with E’s Shoes, teaching me how to find leverage to drive the price up. Most importantly, he showed us the power of owning brands.
23 years later, I’m on stage speaking about building companies at @bartondamer’s 15-year anniversary of @alreadybeenchewed.
It’s crazy to see things come full circle. Thank you, skateboarding, and thank you, @kareemcampbelldotcom"