The Questlove Show
iHeartPodcasts
The Questlove Show builds on the award-winning Questlove Supreme podcast, bringing listeners into intimate, one-on-one conversations with peers, influences, and friends. Hosted by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, each episode uncovers the unexpected — from morning rituals and hidden talents to the art and experiences that shaped a guest’s journey. Sometimes playful, sometimes profound, always curious, QLS offers rare insight into leaders in music, film, television, comedy, literature, mental health, and beyond. It’s a fresh, unpredictable spin from a trusted source — a place where randomness is encouraged, tangents are welcomed, and conversations are anything but ordinary.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 24min
QLS Classic: Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross, an award-winning actor and founder of Pattern beauty, shares her journey from childhood to icon status. She reflects on releasing a movie during the pandemic and her evolving relationship with social media and age. Tracee discusses the impact of Girlfriends on her career and the emotional complexities of its ending. She also touches on her ambitions in producing, breaking norms with Black-ish, and the importance of staying grounded amid fame, highlighting her commitment to diversity and authenticity.
Mar 28, 2025 • 30min
Historical Records: Mitsuye Endo (feat. Anna Suzuki)
Discover the inspiring story of Mitsuye Endo, a Japanese American who bravely challenged racism during World War II. Her landmark Supreme Court case played a crucial role in ending the unjust internment of Japanese Americans. The discussion blends hip-hop creativity with historical narratives, encouraging listeners to find their voice in the fight for justice. Humor and resilience shine through as the hosts reflect on Endo's legacy and the importance of addressing past injustices in today’s world.
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 27min
Questlove Supreme Celebrates Womens History Month Part 3
In this enlightening discussion, actress Tracee Ellis Ross shares her journey navigating fame as Diana Ross's daughter, balancing legacy with personal identity. Shirley Jones reflects on her evolution from background singer to stardom, while Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker highlight the significance of the Riot Grrrl movement in amplifying women's voices in punk music. Music executive Monica Lynch shares stories about the challenges women faced in hip-hop's early days, shedding light on their vital, yet often overlooked, contributions to the industry.
Mar 24, 2025 • 2h 41min
QLS Classic: Monie Love
This Questlove Supreme Classic with the legendary Monie Love was taped in 2021. The "Ladies First" collaborator has used her platform to elevate women and spread the message. One of Hip-Hop's first widely recognized MCs from another continent, Monie continues her passion for rapping today — along with an active career as a media personality at TV and radio. Monie was in the middle of Team Supreme for this epic interview which is worthy of a listen-back. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 21, 2025 • 29min
Historical Records: Emma Tenayuca (feat. Mandy Gonzalez)
Strike! Nimene travels to Texas to witness Emma Tenayuca fight for workers’ rights, and Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez performs a brand new hip-hop track about the pioneering labor activist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 21min
Questlove Supreme Celebrates Womens History Month Part 2
The celebration of Women's History Month continues at Questlove Supreme. This episode features memorable and thematic clips from Chaka Khan, Solange, Stacey Abrams, Kathleen Hanna, Nelly Furtado, Heather Hunter, and more. Questo offers some commentary as well in this curated QLS retrospective. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 26min
QLS Classic: Stephanie Mills
In early 2021, Questlove Supreme interviewed one of the most spectacular voices of our time — Stephanie Mills. She set the standard in her debut Broadway role as the original Dorothy in the Wiz and then came the hits. As we celebrate Women's History Month, listen and learn about her life and everything in between only on QLS. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 14, 2025 • 32min
Historical Records: Judy Heumann (feat. Ali Stroker and Jenna Bainbridge)
Nimene learns the inspiring story of Judy Heumann, who fought for the rights of disabled people, and enlists Broadway actor Jenna Bainbridge for a fierce hip hop track to honor Judy’s legacy. Featuring an interview between Tony Award-winning actor Ali Stroker and a 14 year old named Elizabeth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 3min
Questlove Supreme Celebrates Womens History Month Part 1
In honor of Women's History Month, Questlove Supreme has gathered a series of clips reflecting achievements, experiences, and accomplishments by women. In Part 1 of this three-part series, listen back to excerpts from conversations with Rapsody, Sheila E., Faith Newman, and more—with some recent reflections from Questlove.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 9, 2025 • 1h 44min
QLS Classic: Remembering Roy Ayers
The music community suffered a giant loss this week with the passing of Roy Ayers. In 2017, Roy returned to Electric Lady Studios to sit down with Questlove Supreme. Ahmir adds some reflections and stories about his experience with Roy, as this conversation provides extra insight into the Jazz-Funk pioneer. In this special chat, Roy spoke about his early days in South Central Los Angeles, the strange way Miles Davis had of saying hello, why Electric Lady was the right home, plus so much more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
