Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

The hosts dive into the buzz around the feud between LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith, revealing the complexities of athlete-media dynamics. They also stumble upon an accidental addition to a Trump administration group chat that raises eyebrows. Trick Daddy shares his unorthodox dating preferences, sparking a lively conversation about generational differences in romance. Along the way, they reflect on the rise and fall of political figures like Mark Robinson, blending humor with critical commentary on societal expectations and political missteps.

The hosts pay tribute to the life of George Foreman, mixing humor with nostalgia. They dive into Jonathan Majors's new film and the surrounding buzz while critically examining Disney's controversial Snow White remake. A serious discussion arises around the troubling allegations against Marcellus Wiley, balancing accountability and empathy. The conversation shifts to income inequality in Black communities and rethinking the top Black cities. Lastly, Jaden Daniels's family dynamics spark a lively debate on the complexities of young athletes navigating relationships.

Van and Rachel recap Jess Hilarious's airing out of 'Breakfast Club' grievances online and on air (7:32), before reacting to the erasure of Jackie Robinson and other military heroes in the name of getting rid of DEI (27:41). Plus, Van has a Kanye West theory (1:11:14) and gives his top five Black cities (1:21:21).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 give a review of Playboi Carti’s latest album, ‘Music’ (7:19), before reacting to Kanye West and Kim Kardashian butting heads over a new song featuring Diddy and their daughter (17:22), and Anthony Mackie’s backlash for comments on masculinity (38:45). Then, Congress and Trump avoid shutting down the government (56:10), and Rachel addresses the tragedy of domestic violence (1:12:05) before Ian Von, host of ‘Let’s Talk R&B,’ joins to school Van on neo-soul (1:17:37).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 questions about Doechii after she was invited onstage at a Lauryn Hill concert (12:35), Lil Yachty calls Black Lives Matter a "literal scam" (31:37), and Tucker Carlson touts the genetics of his people (45:10). Then a philosophical discussion on morality and religion: Can you have one without the other (57:44)?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 remember the life of D’Wayne Wiggins and the impact of Tony! Toni! Toné! (:37), before Van breaks down five things Democrats can do to win back voters (11:01), Gavin Newsom calls trans athletes in women’s sports unfair (45:51), and Dana White welcomes Andrew Tate with open arms (1:02:19). Plus, Doechii’s dating red flag had some men upset (1:14:10), LeBron confronts Stephen A. Smith (1:22:55), and Dr. Umar has a social media spat with his daughter (1:36:33).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 reflect on the life and career of Roy Ayers (1:40) and discuss Trump’s tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China (7:22). Then, Washington bureau chief for The Economist Idrees Kahloon joins to break down the economic strategy of the tariffs (28:26). Plus, Democrats protest through song (52:52), Ben Shapiro calls for a pardon of Derek Chauvin (1:08:52), and a young man dies while pledging Omega Psi Phi (1:14:00). Finally, Rachel names her top five interracial couples (1:29:01) and Sherri Shepherd has thoughts on revealing clothes (1:36:48). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Idrees KahloonProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel remember the life and career of Angie Stone (00:34) before reacting to the Oscars (2:36), and Van has thoughts on a Conan hip-hop joke (4:20). Then, a discussion of the lawsuit against Jay-Z being dropped (18:25), before filmmaker Mark Anthony Green joins to talk about his directorial debut, ‘Opus’ (42:22) and Ayo Edebiri’s star power (1:01:35).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Mark Anthony GreenProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Omar Jimenez, a CNN journalist, shares insights on White House media dynamics and challenges facing the free press. He discusses the implications of selective media access during the Trump administration. Tarana Burke, founder of the Me Too movement, reflects on its evolution and significance in 2025, particularly within the Black community. Their conversation highlights the movement’s ongoing fight for accountability while addressing cultural complexities and the importance of supporting survivors.

Pacman Jones, a former NFL star turned media personality, shares insights on 'The Pacman Jones Show,' revealing the art of crafting engaging sports narratives. Sheena Quick provides a unique perspective on the Carolina Panthers, discussing rookie struggles and the importance of mental health in sports. Steelers legend Joey Porter reflects on player wellness post-career and the pressures young athletes face. The conversation navigates the intersection of sports and media, tackling everything from player dynamics to personal finances.