Ben Watkins, showrunner of Prime Video's 'Cross,' shares insights into the show’s success and Aldis Hodge's potential as the next Black Panther. They discuss Hodge's star power and the implications it could have for representation in Hollywood. The conversation also dives into Kendrick Lamar’s impactful Super Bowl halftime performance and its cultural significance. Plus, they reflect on Kanye West's continued presence in the news and touch on political themes entwined with celebrity culture. A compelling blend of entertainment and social commentary!

Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, a scholar of the Middle East and expert on U.S.-Israeli relations, dives into the complexities of Donald Trump's controversial plan for Gaza, exploring its historical context and geopolitical implications. The discussion also scrutinizes the NFL's recent decision to remove anti-racist messaging, highlighting concerns surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in sports. Additionally, the podcast critiques Dennis Schröder's analogy of NBA trades to modern slavery, sparking conversations about race and accountability in the athletic world.

Justin Charity, a Senior staff writer at The Ringer and expert on hip-hop culture, shares insights on the 67th Grammys, highlighting the rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, plus Kendrick's remarkable Super Bowl performance. Logan Murdock, host of Real Ones and NBA commentator, delves into the shockwave created by the recent trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers, questioning the Mavericks' strategy. Together, they navigate the complex dynamics of music and sports, sparking engaging discussions that resonate with fans.

Van and Rachel discuss the midair collision that killed 67 people (1:00) before reacting to Donald Trump pointing the finger at DEI initiatives (10:05). Plus, DJ Akademiks gets banned from Twitch after inappropriate comments toward a minor (20:51), and Scott Storch’s ex gets accused of racism after saying racist things (32:49). Then writer and podcaster Chad Sanders joins to talk authenticity and his new book, ‘How to Sell Out’ (38:14), before journalist Nathan Bomey from Axios explains DeepSeek and the future of AI (1:06:02).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Chad Sanders and Nathan BomeyProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel react to the death of DJ Unk (6:04), before discussing Tabitha Brown’s response to a call to boycott Target for ending DEI programs (15:40) and the Air Force’s choice to walk back a decision to end the use of a Tuskegee Airmen video from basic training (42:11). Then, Snoop Dogg responds to criticism for performing at a Trump inauguration event (57:03), Raven-Symoné speaks on racial identity (1:15:15), and Trump’s actions toward Colombia spark a debate on American supremacy (1:27:36). Plus the Michael Jackson biopic goes through major reshoots (1:39:11).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel react to President Trump’s executive orders (11:35) before welcoming assistant professor of law at Washington and Lee Maureen Edobor to dig into their legal and moral implications (22:33). Then Elon Musk salutes in a very Third Reich-ish kinda way (49:31 ), Sexyy Red apologizes to Bernice King (1:05:12), and Jamie Foxx discusses Leonardo DiCaprio’s discomfort with the N-word (1:15:50)Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Maureen EdoborProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel open the show with Coach Prime, a.k.a. impressionist Sam Croker (8:38), before welcoming the chairman of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, Ben Wikler, to discuss plans should he become chair of the DNC (27:43), and re-energizing the Democratic Party (33:12). Then, in-the-moment reactions to Donald Trump’s inauguration (1:02:10), and digging into Nelly, Snoop, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy’s participation (1:14:55). Plus, Byron Donalds calls Trump ‘daddy’ (1:42:30).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Sam Croker and Ben WiklerProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Marlon Palmer, a Toronto radio personality, dives into the implications of Drake's high-profile lawsuit against UMG, exploring its cultural impact on the music industry. He shares insights on how legal troubles affect artist reputation and creativity. Sam Lewis, executive director of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, discusses the California inmate firefighter program, highlighting its role in rehabilitation and reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. Their passionate dialogue underscores significant social issues while infusing humor and cultural commentary.

Van and Rachel discuss the looming insurance crisis for Los Angeles homeowners (14:42), the price gouging of rental properties (21:14), and the use of prisoners to help fight the fires (29:41). Plus, Mayor Karen Bass faces criticism for her handling of the crisis (46:21). Then, Stephen A. Smith reflects on the election (1:13:57), Jimmy Butler is in a child support battle (1:27:20), and a former WNBA star makes a career shift to OnlyFans (1:37:16).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

William Gude, a community activist with a focus on local issues, joins to discuss the recent Los Angeles wildfires. He provides a ground-level perspective, detailing the chaos and devastation faced by residents. Gude emphasizes the urgent need for better wildfire management and community support in the aftermath of the disaster. With discussions on the emotional toll and the role of emergency services, he highlights the importance of local activism in navigating these challenging times.