Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

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.

Van and Rachel discuss the Fox Sports lawsuit and social media’s reaction to the allegations (15:12), before breaking down Drake’s, ‘Fighting Irish’ freestyle in the context of his relationship with LeBron James (51:48). Plus, Notre Dame’s Black head coach Marcus Freeman speaks on how “color shouldn’t matter” (1:14:51). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel are joined by Chris Draper of the Performing Animal Welfare Society to discuss providing sanctuary and care for former performance animals (0:00), before welcoming Dr. Lauren Howard to talk about her role as director of veterinary services for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (23:34). Then, Animal Games makes it’s long anticipated return to the podcast (49:05).Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel LindsayGuests: Dr. Chris Draper and Dr. Lauren HowardProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel kick off with an intriguing exploration of the Matt Gaetz ethics report and Shameik Moore's controversial antics with Spider-Man love interests. Fat Joe sparks conversation about Foundational Black Americans, leading to insights on cultural identity. The duo take a deep dive into police corruption within the NYPD and share an update on the Travis Hunter fiancé saga. They also discuss Blake Lively's legal clash with Justin Baldoni, before wrapping up by revealing their 'Person of the Year' and reflecting on the year gone by.

Van and Rachel welcome actor Jaleel White to address backlash he received for comments on "hood" TV shows (12:10), where he ranks ‘Family Matters’ amongst Black sitcoms (22:22), stories of growing up and dating as a child star in ’90s L.A. (32:37), and the responsibility of parents to protect young actors from predators in the industry (1:22:07)Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Jaleel WhiteProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ana Foxxx, an award-winning adult film actress, producer, and wrestler, shares her insights on the adult entertainment industry. She discusses the sensational case of an OnlyFans model who had sex with 100 men in one day, challenging societal views on sex work. The conversation also touches on the complexities of relationships in the spotlight, highlighted by the public drama between Remy Ma and Papoose. Foxxx advocates for a more nuanced understanding of sex work and its realities, aiming to shift perceptions around the industry.

Van and Rachel welcome reporter Meghann Cuniff to discuss the legal aspects of the Jay-Z rape lawsuit (5:58), before breaking down the cultural impact of the news (26:39). Then reactions to the arrest of a suspect in the UnitedHealth CEO’s murder (1:04:04), Lil Duval says women owe Jonathan Majors an apology (1:10:28), and the phrase ‘built like a Mexican’ sparks racial tensions online (1:25:21).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Meghann CuniffProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van and Rachel discuss reports that Trump is considering Ron DeSantis over Pete Hegseth for defense secretary (12:32). They then react to Andrew Schulz’s response to his mention in Kendrick Lamar's ‘GNX,’ after which Van discusses who he thinks can defend Black women (22:50). Also the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO elicits disturbing responses online (52:10), before we close the show with a new segment, Girl Talk (1:08:27).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay are back to talk about Van’s new hair (12:11) before reacting to Joe Biden’s pardon of Hunter (16:35) and Pete Hegseth’s mom saying he has abused women (38:18). Then a review of Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, 'GNX' (41:27), and a breakdown of Drake’s legal filings (55:42). Plus, rapper Dave Blunts sparks a conversation on body positivity and weight loss (1:17:24).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducer: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices