On today’s episode host Cari Champion engages with Napheesa Collier, a player and co-founder of the new women's basketball league, Unrivaled. They discuss the evolution of women's basketball, the challenges faced by female athletes, and the innovative approach of Unrivaled in addressing salary disparities and creating generational wealth for players. The conversation also touches on the impact of NIL in college sports, the growing fan base for women's basketball, and the need for consistent officiating in the WNBA. Collier expounds on the importance of equity and recognition for female athletes and expresses optimism for the future of women's sports. Connect @CariChampion @Hales__Storm Learn More LoveB.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Chiké Okonkwo discusses his background as a Nigerian growing up in the UK, his journey to becoming an actor, and the challenges and triumphs he has faced in the industry. He reflects on the impact of the film 'The Birth of a Nation' and the importance of telling untold stories. Chiké also shares his experiences as a black man in America and the perseverance required in the acting profession. He discusses his voice acting work on the Calm app and the TV show 'La Brea,' where he explores his character's backstory. We also explore the importance of complex characters and the impact of historical work. He shares his favorite performances by Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro, Samuel L. Jackson, and Sidney Poitier. He also introduces us to his new venture as one of the founders of Mansa, a platform for curated black culture. Connect: @CariChampion @ChikeOkonkwo Subscribe: Cari Champion’s YouTube Channel Learn More: Mansa.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Naked Sports, producers Jacquees Thomas and Olubusayo Shabi step from behind the scenes to help recap the season so far as we wrap up the year. We begin by revisiting the opening limited series, “The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese,” delving into how race and privilege shape sports narratives. The conversation then highlights Kamala Harris’s political journey and explores how Black women persevere in the face of systemic challenges. This segment underscores the importance of empowerment, perspective, and pursuing financial success as vehicles for change, inspired by the episode  “A Love Letter to Black Women” with Bozoma Saint John. Finally, we tackle the universal obstacles life throws at us, guided by insights from the show’s recent guest, mogul Fawn Weaver, and her roadmap to “Building a Billion Dollar Brand.” Listen to every episode from Season 4 plus more: Naked Sports with CariChampion Connect with the Team: @CariChampion @HumbleProducer @Nottoo_shabi @ThatsPeace Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cari Champion and Master Tesfatsion discuss the current NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys' ongoing struggles, Jerry Jones' controversial history, and the role of Black athletes in activism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clarissa Shields a two-time Olympic gold medalist and boxing champion, discusses her life journey, the upcoming biopic 'The Fire Inside', and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated sport.  Clarissa emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and confidence and the influence of her upbringing in Flint, Michigan. She also shares insights about her relationship with her coach, the misconceptions about her personality, the struggles of maintaining her identity amidst public scrutiny, and her efforts to control her narrative. Watch The Trailer The Fire Inside based on the incredible true story of Claressa Shields. Only in theaters on Christmas Day! Connect @CariChampion @ClarissaSheilds Learn More Claressa Shields Says Fight With Legend Would Be The Biggest In Women’s Boxing History Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Styles P's name is synonymous with the Lox, New York, Hip Hop, and now a healthy lifestyle. Styles didn't grow up vegan/plant-based, but after making small changes over the years he adopted the lifestyle in order to intentionally transition his health, mind, and energy. In this episode, Styles elaborates on how he ventured into the business of creating healthier options in the neighborhoods that need them most.  Connect: @StylesP @CariChampion    Learn More: Farmacy For LifeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weaver, the CEO and founder of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, shares her journey of uncovering the legacy of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. She discusses the historical significance of the relationship between Nearest Green and Jack Daniel, the impact of Prohibition on the whiskey industry, and the importance of honoring African American contributions to distilling. Fawn also highlights her efforts to revive Nearest's legacy through her brand, which has become one of the most awarded bourbons in the world. We also gain insight into the journey of building the Uncle Nearest brand, highlighting the challenges faced in a predominantly white industry with centuries of business and multi-generations of operation.  Weaver emphasizes the need for a broader definition of culture, the power of storytelling, and the mindset to overcome entrepreneurship challenges needed to build a legacy. Connect: @CariChampion @FawnWeaver Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a special extended episode with one of the players that inspired Cari’s initial attraction to collegiate basketball. Grant Henry Hill is an American former professional basketball player who is a co-owner and executive of the Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association. He joins us from his family’s home in the D.C. area to share stories of his upbringing, family, and long-lasting commitment to the game. Read: Game: An Autobiography Listen: Game: An Autobiography – The Audiobook Connect: @CariChampion @realGrantHillSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode is from a special live taping at the 2024 Art Basel in Miami. This conversation explores the powerful intersection of art and sports, particularly focusing on the experiences of women in these fields. It highlights the importance of representation, empowerment, and the challenges faced by women artists and athletes. The discussion features insights from notable figures like Mickalene Thomas (Artist) and Napheesa Collier (Unrivaled), emphasizing the need for equity, support, and collaboration in both the art and sports communities. The panel explores themes of representation, confidence, and the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. The discussion highlights the significance of mentorship, community, and the need for women to advocate for their worth in both the art and sports worlds. The speakers share personal stories and insights on navigating their careers while uplifting others in their fields. Panel Members: Mickalene Thomas - Artist  Napheesa Collier- Founder and Player Unrivaled  Women's Basketball League Kennedy Yanko - Artist   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the season finale of The Making of a Rivalry, Cari interviews Gina Prince - Bythewood, director and screenwriter whose resume includes: The Old Guard, The Woman King and Love and Basketball - a film that centers a Black athlete with dreams of being the first woman to play in the NBA.  Trista Krick, also joins the conversation to discuss what the future holds for the league and the rising stars who are coming.  WNBA players featured at the end of the episode:  Angel Reese Odyssey Sims Dearica Hamby Lindsay Allen Brianna Turner Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.