

All The Smoke
The Black Effect Podcast Network and iHeartPodcasts
ALL THE SMOKE pairs two of the most outspoken and controversial players of their time. Known as fiery, intense competitors during their on-court careers, Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson are now two of the most widely respected voices by today’s crop of NBA stars. Serving as mentors to numerous players throughout the league and with their hands firmly on the pulse of the game, they have first-hand insight into the minds, lives and pressing issues facing today’s players. Barnes and Jackson, who have played alongside two generations of All-Stars, will dish on the latest news and drama from on and off the court without boundaries.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 29, 2026 • 55min
Melvin Gregg: 7M Vine Followers, Snowfall’s Coldest Villain & Platform Shadow Bans
Melvin Gregg, former Vine star turned actor (known for Manboy on Snowfall), walks through his climb from 7M followers to TV roles. He talks creation strategies, the gap between social-media and TV recognition, platform shadow-banning and reach manipulation. He also shares career pivots, on-set stories with John Singleton, and his surprising love of gardening.

Jan 28, 2026 • 1h 1min
How to DESTROY a Franchise: Mad Max & Matt Barnes on Kings, Bucks & NFL Chaos
Mad Max, former NBA pro known for blunt, hilarious locker-room stories; Nate Jackson, ex-NFL wideout turned analyst; Jake Plummer, former QB and game-planning guru. They roast Sacramento’s misfires, trade-deadline chaos, Giannis drama and fit scenarios, then pivot to playoff football: weather’s effects, injury oddities, coaching challenges and rising QB names. High-energy takes and behind-the-scenes tales.

Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 9min
Vic Mensa Unfiltered: Chicago, ICE, Kanye & the Lies We’re Fed
Vic Mensa, a Chicago-born artist, activist, and cultural commentator, shares his powerful insights on activism, music, and identity. He uses social media as a platform for truth and discusses the realities of immigration in Chicago. Vic highlights the impact of redlining on systemic poverty and emphasizes addressing youth needs over policing. He shares memorable moments with Kanye West and Chance The Rapper, reflects on his biracial upbringing, and reveals how his ayahuasca experiences transformed his perspective. This discussion is a profound mix of personal journey and cultural commentary.

Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 18min
Jay Bilas & Seth Greenberg: What’s REALLY Broken in College Hoops (PLUS Generational 2026 NBA Draft)
Jay Bilas, a former college basketball player and ESPN analyst, and Seth Greenberg, a former coach and current analyst, dive deep into the challenges facing college basketball today. They discuss the chaos of NIL deals and the transfer portal, arguing that the NCAA struggles to adapt. They also explore the generational 2026 NBA Draft class, highlighting prospects like Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa, drawing comparisons to NBA legends. The conversation mixes insight on player development, the future of recruiting, and the evolving dynamics of collegiate athletics.

Jan 21, 2026 • 14min
Matt Barnes Warns About Rich Paul’s Podcast
Matt Barnes dives into Rich Paul’s provocative comments about player movement and trades, warning that such transparency can disrupt NBA locker rooms. He discusses the potential backlash on team chemistry, especially for the Lakers. The implications of Jimmy Butler’s injury for the Warriors are also tackled, along with an evaluation of the struggling Knicks. Barnes debates whether Rich Paul's media ventures could enhance or hinder his influence in the league. The conversation is a blend of insider insights and the complexities of trust in sports.

Jan 19, 2026 • 28min
Raphael Warnock on Faith vs. Politics, Renee Good, & Real Activism
Senator Raphael Warnock, a United States senator and pastor renowned for his advocacy on voting rights and social justice, joins for a heartfelt discussion. He dives deep into the alliance of faith and action, emphasizing that hope must spark real efforts, not mere online hashtags. Warnock highlights the courage of Renee Good and the significance of grassroots movements. He confronts the misuse of Christianity in politics and underscores the critical nature of healthcare access and maternal health as fundamental rights. Expect stirring insights on mobilizing youth and athletes for change!

14 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 55min
Ben Affleck Gets REAL About Hollywood, Matt Damon and Michael Jordan
Ben Affleck, acclaimed actor and director, joins to discuss the transformative power of ownership in filmmaking through his venture, Artists Equity. He shares insights on the challenges of Hollywood, friendship with Matt Damon, and the deep respect he has for collaborators like Michael Jordan. Affleck candidly reflects on his decision to avoid social media, the evolution of storytelling in the streaming era, and the risks of AI in entertainment. He also offers a sneak peek into his upcoming film, The Rip, highlighting its unique premise and character dynamics.

Jan 13, 2026 • 27min
Fred VanVleet on KD’s Shower Confession, His $50K Ejection & NBA Leadership Crisis
Fred VanVleet, an undrafted point guard turned NBA champion, discusses a range of compelling topics. He opens up about his ACL rehab journey and mental battles, noting how creating his podcast, Unguarded, has been therapeutic. Fred shares insights on Kevin Durant's leadership and the pressing need for veteran presence in today's NBA. He reflects on his infamous $50K ejection, revealing the personal grief behind it. The conversation also touches on young players' growth and Fred's assessments of team dynamics in the league.

Jan 13, 2026 • 8min
Matt Barnes UNLOADS on Shady McCoy, Jemele Hill & Sports Media for Attacking Reporter
Matt Barnes dives into the emotional fallout from a Jaguars reporter's heartfelt postgame moment. He critiques the harsh media backlash from figures like Shady McCoy and Jemele Hill, arguing that the negativity misses the essence of sportsmanship. Barnes champions the importance of positivity in sports coverage and highlights Pat McAfee's supportive stance. He also defends the legacy of the black press and emphasizes the significance of allowing athletes to express joy without criticism. Ultimately, he advocates for embracing moments of love and celebration in sports.

Jan 7, 2026 • 1h 17min
Randall Cunningham: The Quarterback Who Changed the Game Before It Was Ready
Former NFL quarterback Randall Cunningham shares his fascinating journey as a pioneering dual-threat quarterback. He reflects on his humble beginnings, the challenges of playing alongside legends like Randy Moss and Cris Carter, and his thoughts on today's stars like Lamar Jackson. Cunningham recounts unforgettable college moments, brushes with fame—like dating Whitney Houston—and his spiritual transformation as a pastor. He also discusses the impact of coaching his children and the need for better support for retired players facing health issues.


