

Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay
The Ringer
Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay dissect the biggest topics in Black culture, politics, and sports. Two times per week, they will wade into the most important and timely conversations, frequently inviting guests on the podcast and occasionally debating each other.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 18, 2024 • 43min
Emergency Pod: Diddy’s Indictment
Van and Rachel address the breaking news of Sean Combs’s arrest and indictment on sex trafficking and racketeering charges.Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 17, 2024 • 2h 4min
Shannon Sharpe Goes Live and Terrell Owens Talks T.O.
Van and Rachel remember the life of Tito Jackson (10:39) before reacting to the second apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump in two months (16:09) and Laura Loomer’s relationship with the former president (25:58). Then they have a discussion on Shannon Sharpe’s viral Instagram Live and the best way to release a sex tape (33:37) before the much-anticipated return of the Van LaTEN (47:58). Finally Terrell Owens joins to discuss his hall of fame career and the NFL’s race problem (1:05:28).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Terrell OwensProducer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 6, 2024 • 1h 18min
Kamala’s Code Switch, and the Reparations Movement in Peril
Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay react to the death of Fatman Scoop (8:10), before digging into conversations surrounding Kamala Harris’s accent (15:10). Then, Lee Daniels stirs up controversy for his new horror film (29:30), and an NFL executive gets recorded insulting the league (40:46). Finally, the chair of the California Reparations Task Force, Kamilah Moore, joins to discuss the blocking of a pair of bills by the Black Caucus (49:24).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Kamilah MooreProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 2, 2024 • 20min
The Top 10 Black Beauties of the ’90s | The Van LaTEN
This Labor Day, Van and Rachel are bringing you a brand-new segment called the Van LaTEN! This time, they count down the top 10 Black beauties of the ’90s. Let us know if your pick makes the cut!Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducer: Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 42min
Bending the Knee, Selfishly Creating Families, and Infighting Within the Black Community
RFK Jr., a political figure who recently exited the presidential race, shares his endorsement of Donald Trump and the shifting political landscape. NFL star Cam Newton discusses the responsibilities of fatherhood amidst changing family dynamics. The podcast also teases an exciting reunion between music giants Drake and Kendrick Lamar. The conversation dives into the nuances of community infighting and modern parenthood, highlighting the complexities of personal choices and societal expectations regarding family structures.

Aug 23, 2024 • 1h 22min
The Freedom Festival of the DNC, the Beyoncé Fake Out, and the End of Bennifer 2.0
In a captivating discussion, Kamala Harris reflects on her impactful speech at the DNC, emphasizing the power of storytelling and political messaging. The conversation takes a turn as they dissect a TMZ blunder regarding Beyoncé’s presence at the event. Jennifer Lopez's recent divorce filing from Ben Affleck sparks further dialogue on celebrity relationships and public scrutiny. Together, they navigate the complexities of political discourse, identity, and the importance of compassion in leadership.

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 29min
The Musk-Trump Interview, Simone Biles’s Past, and Voting Rights With Representative Stacey Abrams
Stacey Abrams, an influential politician and voting rights activist, joins the discussion to share insights about her new podcast, 'Assembly Required.' The conversation dives into the complexities of ranked-choice voting and the importance of empowering young voters. They also emphasize the urgency of voter engagement in shaping democracy. Additionally, the hosts analyze the chaotic duo of Trump and Musk, while reflecting on Simone Biles's family dynamics and the impact of societal perceptions on personal struggles. It’s a compelling mix of politics, culture, and empowerment.

Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 27min
The Olympics Are Over, Culture’s Best Uncle, and J.D. Vance’s Hypocrisy
Tyrese Gibson, an actor and musician, shares his latest creative journey, while Amber Rose passionately discusses her political views and critiques Van's comments. The hosts reflect on the recent Olympics, highlighting standout performances and controversies, including issues of racism in scoring. J.D. Vance's political hypocrisy sparks a lively debate, touching on the complexities of personal beliefs in the current political landscape, emphasizing the need for respectful discourse amidst rising tensions.

Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 21min
Harris’s VP Pick, Marcus Jordan’s Trip, and the Reason Behind Ye’s Fall
In this engaging discussion, popular content creator Kai Cenat shares his experience with political pressure from Kamala Harris's campaign, despite his reluctance to get involved. They delve into the selection of Tim Walz as her VP pick, examining the strategic implications and public perception around it. Marcus Jordan's controversial public appearances spark debate over celebrity accountability. The conversation also reflects on Kanye West's striking decline in public favor, tying in themes of fame, mental health, and personal choices.

Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 36min
The “Big” Disappointment at the Olympics, RFK Jr.’s Bear, and MOVE’s Legacy With Mike Africa Jr.
Mike Africa Jr., an activist and author, shares insights on the MOVE organization and its profound impact on social justice. He discusses his new book, which delves into the 1985 MOVE bombing and its emotional scars. Africa emphasizes the importance of acknowledging history and the community's resilience. The conversation also touches on the cultural significance of these events, highlighting the ongoing quest for accountability and justice in a society still grappling with its past.


