Naked Sports with Cari Champion
The Black Effect and iHeartPodcasts
NAKED SPORTS lives at the intersection of sports, politics, and culture. It is a niche groundbreaking interview-based show that dives deep into the lives of the game-changers who have helped shape our world. We explore how sports are interwoven not only into their personal lives; but the role they play in the global experience. NAKED SPORTS is hosted by Cari Champion, a trailblazing broadcast journalist and television personality renowned for her pioneering contributions to sports media for women.
In each episode, this distinguished host sits down with, a diverse array of athletes, politicians, and cultural innovators who have left an indelible mark on their fields. Through intimate, unfiltered conversations, the show reveals the raw and vulnerable sides of their journeys—peeling back the layers to explore the defining moments, personal struggles, and transformative experiences that live at the intersection of sports, culture, and politics.
These conversations are thematically linked to live at the intersection and on this new season of NAKED SPORTS, we begin with a six-part docu-series, The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese, in which Cari questions how this “rivalry” started. Does the necessity for success depend on a foil? In a time of divisiveness, are sports—more specifically the WNBA—a reflection of our country? Or will the greatness of two supernovas unite this country and heal race relations?
NAKED SPORTS guests will span varied backgrounds, providing diverse perspectives as we examine how sports play a crucial role in nearly every aspect of life.
Connect: @CARICHAMPION
In each episode, this distinguished host sits down with, a diverse array of athletes, politicians, and cultural innovators who have left an indelible mark on their fields. Through intimate, unfiltered conversations, the show reveals the raw and vulnerable sides of their journeys—peeling back the layers to explore the defining moments, personal struggles, and transformative experiences that live at the intersection of sports, culture, and politics.
These conversations are thematically linked to live at the intersection and on this new season of NAKED SPORTS, we begin with a six-part docu-series, The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese, in which Cari questions how this “rivalry” started. Does the necessity for success depend on a foil? In a time of divisiveness, are sports—more specifically the WNBA—a reflection of our country? Or will the greatness of two supernovas unite this country and heal race relations?
NAKED SPORTS guests will span varied backgrounds, providing diverse perspectives as we examine how sports play a crucial role in nearly every aspect of life.
Connect: @CARICHAMPION
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
REPLAY - Lonely Flowers with Roy Wood Jr.
Today, Cari Champion engages with comedian Roy Wood Jr. to explore the intersections of sports, politics, and culture. They discuss the current state of women's basketball, the significance of the Super Bowl, and the evolving landscape of political satire. Wood shares insights from his Hulu special 'Lonely Flowers,' addressing themes of loneliness and connection in modern society. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating political commentary in a divided world, emphasizing the need for a new approach to discussing power and accountability. They discuss the disconnect between politicians and the everyday realities of voters, and the need for a more relatable and honest approach to political communication. Connect @CariChampion @RoyWoodJr Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 28, 2025 • 40min
REPLAY - MALCOLM JAMAL WARNER - A Poet Who Happens to Act
MALCOLM JAMAL WARNER August 18, 1970 - July 20, 2025 Learn More and reflect on the life of: Malcolm Jamal Warner / @MalcolmJamalWar Connect @carichampion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 26, 2025 • 1h 26min
Naked Sports: Red, Black and Blue with Garrison Hayes
The Black Effect Presents... Naked Sports with Cari Champion! In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari gets into it, and I mean really gets into it, around the noise surrounding Caitlin Clark and the WNBA. Let’s be clear: it’s not jealousy. It’s biased. Gender bias, media bias, and the way we constantly move the goalposts when it comes to women in sports, especially Black women. Before we get into the episode, Cari takes the time to call out these biases. Then we switch gears and sit down with the brilliant Garrison Hayes - digital creator, historian, and storyteller who’s out here unearthing the Black history most folks never learned. They talk about the complicated legacy of Black Republicans, the narratives that get pushed (and the ones that don’t), and how identity, history, and power all show up in the public conversation. We close out with a little WNBA love from the upcoming All-Star festivities and a shoutout for Swin Cash and her incredible Women in Sports conference. This one’s about telling the truth, rewriting the narrative, and honoring the stories that matter on and off the court. Connect @CariChampion @GarrisonH Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 14, 2025 • 37min
What’s Next for Sean “Diddy” Combs?
In this powerful and unfiltered episode, we take a hard look at the rise, reign, and reckoning of Sean “Diddy” Combs. From industry icon to tabloid headline, we unpack it all; the legacy, the lifestyle, and the legal heat he’s facing right now, including the fast-approaching sentencing on October 3rd. Cari even shares some of her personal experiences that pull back the curtain on Diddy the man, not just the mogul, and the challenge of reconciling the artist with the allegations. Mona Kosar Abdi, senior correspondent for Extra TV, joins us to help break down the legal details of the trial, the headlines you’ve heard (and the ones you haven’t), and the public’s complicated response; especially with stories like the so-called “freak offs” drawing so much attention. Now the verdict has been announced, the bigger question remains: “When someone this powerful falls, can they ever really rise again? And should they?” Connect @CariChampion @mokoab Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jul 7, 2025 • 46min
Let Them Play: WNBA Growing Pains with Cari Champion
On this episode of Naked Sports, Cari Champion opens up about finding her tribe, cutting off toxic relationships (yes, we’re talking frenemies), and creating a sense of peace in a world that feels more divided than ever. Then it’s game time: we dive into the headlines shaking up the WNBA. From record-breaking expansion to fiery rivalries over player rankings—this week on Naked Sports, Cari Champion digs into the explosive growth of the WNBA, the drama brewing around Caitlin Clark’s All‑Star selection, and whether the league’s meteoric rise comes at a cost. Why are some folks upset that Caitlin Clark is an All-Star captain in just her second year? What's really behind the WNBA expansion news—and why are only male owners getting the big buy-in? Cari breaks it all down with honesty and edge, from fan vote drama to long-overdue investment in women’s sports. Mark your calendar: WNBA All-Star Weekend is July 18–20 in Indiana. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jun 30, 2025 • 45min
Rock the Bells with Big Daddy Kane
In this episode, Cari chops it up with a true legend — Big Daddy Kane. We discuss the legacy of Rock the Bells, the roots of hip-hop, and why storytelling remains at the heart of the game. Kane takes us back to his battle rap days and walks us through his rise, from hungry lyricist to certified pioneer. We delve into the creation of classics like "Smooth Operator," what it means to perform with purpose, and how his style continues to be reflected in today’s artists. We also break down the many layers of hip-hop, conscious rap, mainstream hits, battle bars, and why it all matters. Kane drops gems on where the culture’s been, where it’s headed, and how artists can protect their legacy by knowing their worth and their business. This one’s for the hip-hop heads, the artists, and anybody who still believes in the power of authenticity in music. Connect @CariChampion @OfficialBigDaddyKane Learn More: RockTheBells.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jun 23, 2025 • 38min
Parents, Players, and the Trans Athlete Debate
In this episode, Cari Champion gets real about the hot-button topic of transgender athletes in sports. From the emotional stories of parents to the big questions around fairness and inclusion, Cari breaks down the conversation with honesty and heart. She talks about how little research is actually out there, the real-life impact on families, and why we need more compassion and open-mindedness in this debate. If you’re curious about where sports, identity, and society intersect—this episode’s for you. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jun 16, 2025 • 30min
Power, Protests and Paying Respect with Cari Champion
In this solo episode, Cari addresses what’s happening right now, starting with the disturbing military presence in Los Angeles during protests against ICE. She discusses the dangers of government overreach and why we all need to stay aware, because these issues don’t just affect the marginalized; they impact everyone. Then we pivot to the court. and not the kind with judges. Cari highlights the rise of some of the NBA’s brightest new stars and what their moment means for the culture at large. It’s not just about the game, it’s about what they represent. Lastly, she takes a moment to honor the one and only Ananda Lewis — a woman who shaped media, shifted narratives, and made space for so many of us to be seen and heard—her powerful and relevant legacy. This one’s about truth, talent, and giving flowers while we still can. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jun 9, 2025 • 43min
REPLAY - TAMRON HALL - Behind The Scenes
The conversation delves into the work ethic and upbringing of Tamron Hall, the challenges and assumptions surrounding motherhood, the importance of presentation in journalism, and the experiences of sexual harassment as a black woman. Hall shares stories; of motherhood, behind-the-scenes, and the writings of her true crime series as a cathartic experience. Connect: @CariChampion @TamronHall Read: Watch Where They Hide Watch: TamronHallShow.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jun 2, 2025 • 48min
The Magic Of Television With Jesse Collins
This week on the podcast we are joined by legendary producer Jesse Collins! In this episode, Jesse keeps it real about his journey from radio to running major live events like the BET Awards and the Super Bowl halftime show. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from Ruthless Radio, reflects on the cultural impact of BET’s Teen Summit, and talks about the power of representation in media. With plenty of insights on staying creative, serving your audience, and building a lasting career in Hollywood, this convo is packed with gems—plus a sneak peek at what’s coming up at the next BET Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
