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Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

ByThe Ringer
463 episodes

Podcast Summary

Dive into the vibrant world of "Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay," where two dynamic voices tackle the pressing issues in Black culture, politics, and sports. With their unique blend of insight and humor, Van and Rachel engage listeners in thought-provoking discussions that resonate deeply with current societal themes. Recent episodes feature compelling conversations with guests like Issa Rae, who discusses the nuances of representation in Hollywood, and Michael Eric Dyson, who explores the intersection of race and politics in America. The duo fearlessly confront topics ranging from systemic racism to the latest in pop culture, often sharing personal anecdotes that bring their insights to life. Their chemistry and commitment to authenticity make each episode a captivating experience, inviting listeners to engage with complex issues while feeling seen and heard. Tune in twice a week for a fresh perspective that challenges, educates, and inspires.

#1

Dawn Staley’s ‘Uncommon Favor,’ Plus Cardi B and Offset Spousal Support

Van and Rachel react to racists attempting to claim the sentiment “Black fatigue” (0:00), before legendary basketball player and coach Dawn Staley joins the show to talk about life lessons from her memoir, ‘Uncommon Favor’ (15:15). Then, reactions to Offset’s request for spousal support from Cardi B (46:31), an Atlanta family deals with squatters throwing pool parties (1:01:59), a debate on how many mechanical bull rides are too many for a guy on the first date (1:19:43). Then, a dating preference discussion (1:30:42) Glaze of the Week (1:36:00), and an Angel Reese-Shedeur Sanders comparison (1:42:26). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Dawn Staley Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-06-03•1hr 50mins
#2

Trump’s Latest Pardons. Plus, Ethical Nonmonogamy With Mandii B and WeezyWTF

Van and Rachel are back from the Memorial Day break to talk Trump’s "big, beautiful bill" (:48), Elon Musk's decision to officially leave the administration (2:40), the latest out of the Diddy trial (8:15) and Trump’s recent pardons (17:37). Then they give their reactions to Druski’s skit in whiteface (24:46) and have a conversation about conversations with RGIII (32:53), before they give some updates on the alpha dog King Charles (45:46). Finally, Mandii B and WeezyWTF of Decisions Decisions join to talk about the name change from Whoreible Decisions (58:32) and takeaways from their upcoming book, ‘No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto of Sexual Exploration and Power’ (1:07:37) Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guests: Mandii B and WeezyWTF Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-30•1hr 54mins
#3

Progressivism and Poetry With Newark Mayor Ras Baraka

Van sits down with Newark Mayor Ras Baraka to discuss entering the gubernatorial race (:34), whether it’s important or possible for Black people to have positive relationships with police (16:15), Democrats shying away from more progressive politics (27:23), and criticism of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s White House appearance (38:40). Plus, a peek into his career in music (40:04). Host: Van Lathan Guest: Mayor Ras Baraka Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-27•54mins
#4

Kid Cudi Takes the Stand, and the Fight for Reparations With Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor

Van and Rachel discuss a wholesome TikTok trend (10:50) before reacting to the death of a member of Congress (14:15), and giving an update on the RGIII vs. Ryan Clark drama (20:06). Then reparationist Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor joins to dig into Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s veto of a reparations bill (29:40). Plus, Kid Cudi takes the witness stand in the Diddy trial (57:22), humanitarian efforts are stalled in Gaza (1:11:21), and director David O. Russell gets accused of using the n-word on set (1:27:19). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-23•1hr 56mins
#5

Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis, and RGIII’s Got Thoughts on Caitlin vs. Angel

Van and Rachel discuss Dan Bongino and Kash Patel’s comments on Jeffrey Epstein’s death (8:10), and whether Atlanta is still the Black Mecca (14:02). Then, reactions to Joe Biden’s cancer diagnosis (20:49), before Robert Griffin III earns Glaze of the Week (36:31), and Snoop Dogg addresses the Trump inauguration backlash (53:59). Then, writer Anna Malaika Tubbs joins to talk about her new book, ‘Erased: What American Patriarchy Has Hidden from Us’ (1:07:53). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Anna Malaika Tubbs Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-20•1hr 41mins
#6

A Dive Into the Diddy Trial, Meghan Trainor’s New Bass, and Bringing Redheads to the Community

Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay start the episode by discussing the TikTok trend of including redheaded Americans in the Black community (07:20). Then, they go through a few “quick hitters,” including the restraining order sought by Halle Bailey (18:52), the backlash about Meghan Trainor’s new look (33:28), and their reactions to the introductions to the federal bill redefining what qualifies as “obscene” (58:14). Then, they bring on Yodit Tewolde to give a look at the details of the Diddy trial (1:12:09) before ending the show with an important message of change from the hosts (1:38:02). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Yodit Tewolde Producers: Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-16•1hr 43mins
#7

Live from New York, It’s Higher Learning!

Van and Rachel took to New York’s Gramercy Theater in front of a lively audience to discuss the old guard of the Democratic Party, after David Hogg’s “get over yourself” comment (12:57). Then Van debuts a new spinoff, “Glaze of the Decade” (29:37), before thought warriors join the show for Animal Games (54:38) and a Rachel Apology Contest (1:12:07). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Additional Production Support: Chelsea Stark-Jones Live Events Coordination: Elizabeth Fierman, Helen Eichner, Tessa Herrick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-14•1hr 33mins
#8

The First American Pope, Plus Met Gala Rankings

Van and Rachel discuss the buildup to the selection of the new pope (14:37) and the acquittal of the officers who killed Tyre Nichols (16:46) before shifting gears to the Met Gala and its celebration of Black style (32:43). Then, instant reactions to the announcement of Pope Leo XIV (56:08), a conversation around the lawsuit against Smokey Robinson (59:09), and the discussion on Jayden Daniels’s mom makes a comeback (1:28:30). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-09•1hr 44mins

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#9

Hip-Hop’s Jeffrey Epstein, and Trump Meets the Press

Van and Rachel react to Donald Trump getting involved with NIL in college sports (14:02), and the Turkey Leg Hut crime saga (26:16). Then, Diddy’s trial begins (32:54), Trump appears on ‘Meet the Press’ (50:59), and thanks to a mom saying the N-word, we have a new Glaze of the Week (1:14:53). Plus, a conversation about squatters' rights (1::27:06). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-06•1hr 53mins
#10

Paying Teachers, Missing White Women Syndrome, and Pool Party Foul

Van and Rachel discuss Donald Trump’s cabinet’s praise of his first 100 days in office (2:55), and Paul Pierce’s explanation of NBA players’ dating habits (14:51). Plus, Terrence Howard says what he’d do to his lips if he ever kissed a man (28:51), and Giannis Antetokounmpo gets into it with Tyrese Haliburton’s dad (35:33). Then, reactions to a video of somebody going too far at a pool party (47:35), before former secretary of education John King Jr. joins to discuss the present and future of the department (56:39), and producer Lisa Cortés joins to talk about her new docuseries, ‘Murder Has Two Faces’ (1:22:38). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: John King Jr. and Lisa Cortés Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-05-02•1hr 40mins
#11

Shedeur Sanders’s Draft Fall: The Civil Rights Issue of Our Time? Plus, Cinematography and ‘Sinners’

Van and Rachel welcome former NFL cornerback and ESPN contributor Domonique Foxworth to react to Shedeur Sanders’s historic fall in the NFL draft (16:49) and Saquon Barkley spending quality time with President Trump (37:15). Then director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw joins to discuss how she shot arguably the most talked-about film of the decade, ‘Sinners’ (50:41). Finally, Van has a plan on how to defeat a gorilla with 100 men (50:39). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Dominique Foxworth and Autumn Durald Arkapaw Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-29•1hr 49mins
#12

Shannon Sharpe’s “Shakedown,” and Why the Earth Isn’t Flat With Dakotah Tyler

Van and Rachel react to the latest in Shannon Sharpe's lawsuit and discuss his reaction (22:41), before breaking down Elon Musk’s decision to take a step back from politics to focus on Tesla (55:34). Then astrophysicist Dakotah Tyler (soon to be Dr. Tyler) joins to debunk Wiz Khalifa’s belief that the Earth is flat (1:07:21).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Dakotah TylerProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-25•1hr 28mins
#13

‘Sinners’ Box Office, ’The Quincy Avery Effect’, & How to Talk About Sex With Kamil Lewis

Van and Rachel react to the death of Pope Francis (4:00), before discussing the opening weekend of ‘Sinners’ and the way the film's success has been covered in the trades (16:09). Plus, Shannon Sharpe gets sued (30:05), Rev. Al Sharpton meets with Target (41:43), and we crown the latest Glaze of the Week (50:55). Then, Deion Sanders justifies the retiring of jerseys (1:09:31), before QB guru Quincy Avery joins to talk the upcoming doc ‘The Quincy Avery Effect’ (1:16:08), and sex therapist Kamil Lewis helps breakdown the social discomfort around sex (1:54:01).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Quincy Avery and Kamil LewisProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smithwww.kamillewis.comInstagram: @kamil.lewis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-22•2hr 41mins
#14

The Horror, Joy, and Roots of 'Sinners' With Omar Miller

Van and Rachel react to the wrongful deportation of a Maryland man to El Salvador (7:21), before welcoming actor Omar Miller to discuss Ryan Coogler’s latest film, 'Sinners’ (27:22).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Omar MillerProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-18•1hr 10mins
#15

Kyren Lacy and the Mental Wellness of Black Men With Jason Wilson

Van and Rachel react to the death of LSU football standout Kyren Lacy (15:07), before Bill Maher inspires the start of a new segment following his dinner with Donald Trump (24:00), and they discuss black businesses in light of Wallo’s recent comments (56:35) Then, Ringer social content producer and Midnight Boy Jomi Adeniran joins to give some insight on KTLA accidentally tweeting the N-word (1:07:57). Finally, Jason Wilson, author of ‘The Man the Moment Demands,’ joins for an emotional and heartfelt conversation (1:28:01).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Jason Wilson and Jomi AdeniranProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-15•2hr 40mins
#16

David Oyelowo on ‘Government Cheese,’ Plus Keri Hilson’s Regret

Van and Rachel give an update on the roller coaster that is the U.S. economy (2:10) and talk Keri Hilson’s recent comments on her 2009 Beyoncé diss (16:05) before welcoming actor and producer David Oyelowo to discuss his new Apple TV+ show, ‘Government Cheese’ (28:32), the types of roles he will and will not play (39:51), and his friendship with Jonathan Majors (1:01:02). Plus, Animal Games makes a comeback (1:11:46), Terrence Howard wants to duel (1:16:44)Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: David OyelowoProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-11•1hr 32mins
#17

Kamala’s “I Told You So” and a Student's Self-Defense Claim in a Track Meet Stabbing

Van and Rachel react to a recent tweet of Van’s (:18) before discussing Kamala Harris’s recent “I told you so” comments (24:23) and a stabbing at a Texas track meet that left one student dead and another claiming self-defense (49:47). Then, a message to rappers regarding tariffs (1:17:09) and a celebration of Duke’s NCAA tournament loss (1:26:04).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-08•1hr 44mins
#18

Donald Trump and the Last-Ditch Effort of a Dying Empire With Michael Harriot

Van and Rachel have a conversation about her experience with alimony (3:37) before welcoming writer Michael Harriot to help break down Trump’s tariff war, which is looking bleak (23:32). Plus, Young Thug may be in trouble with the law again (45:38), Cory Booker breaks a record (57:47), and Andrew Schulz appeared on The Pivot (1:05:39). And finally, an Anthony Edwards rumor gets put to rest, but we still have questions (1:28:06).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Michael HarriotProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-04•1hr 39mins
#19

Therapy and the History of Child Support With TK Kirkland

Van and Rachel discuss YG’s new single, "2004," and conversations about male survivors of sexual assault (1:15), and the White House Correspondents Dinner (9:07) before comedian and podcaster TK Kirkland joins to talk everything from Donald Trump’s road to the White House (24:59) to domestic violence, mental health (38:32), and touring with N.W.A in the late ’80s (1:04:44). Plus, TK’s thoughts on child support (1:11:14) and Mo’Nique’s beef with Tyler Perry (1:20:46).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Terence TK KirklandProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh SmithNational Sexual Assault Hotline: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-04-01•1hr 43mins
#20

The LeBron–Stephen A. Feud, “Governor Hot Wheels,” and the Trump Administration’s Big Oopsie

Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay start the episode by discussing the discourse around Van’s idea of a top BBL city, and then they change direction with a chat about the characteristics behind “BDE” (04:27). Then, they get into the simmering Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James feud (08:55) and the accidental adding of The Atlantic’s editor in chief to the Trump administration’s war plans group chat (35:10). They also ask the question, “What happened to Mark Robinson?” (1:03:05) Later, Trick Daddy gives his intriguing dating preferences (1:06:07).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Van's dog, BosemanProducers: Donnie Beacham and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-28•1hr 26mins
#21

Jonathan Majors, ‘Snow White’ and Box Office Controversy

Van and Rachel remember the life of George Foreman (19:32) before discussing Jonathan Majors’s latest film, ‘Magazine Dreams’ (29:06), and the controversy surrounding Disney’s ‘Snow White’ (48:01). Then they react to the lawsuits against Marcellus Wiley detailing accounts of rape and sexual assault (1:00:31). Then Van explains why he’ll redo his list of the top five Black cities while addressing income inequality (1:20:56), and is Jayden Daniels’s mom going too far (1:38:36)?Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-25•1hr 47mins
#22

Jess Hilarious, 'The Breakfast Club,' and Erasing Jackie Robinson

Van and Rachel recap Jess Hilarious's airing out of 'Breakfast Club' grievances online and on air (7:32), before reacting to the erasure of Jackie Robinson and other military heroes in the name of getting rid of DEI (27:41). Plus, Van has a Kanye West theory (1:11:14) and gives his top five Black cities (1:21:21).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-21•1hr 34mins
#23

Kanye, Kim and Celebrity Parenthood. Plus, Van Learns About Neo-Soul

Van and Rachel give a review of Playboi Carti’s latest album, ‘Music’ (7:19), before reacting to Kanye West and Kim Kardashian butting heads over a new song featuring Diddy and their daughter (17:22), and Anthony Mackie’s backlash for comments on masculinity (38:45). Then, Congress and Trump avoid shutting down the government (56:10), and Rachel addresses the tragedy of domestic violence (1:12:05) before Ian Von, host of ‘Let’s Talk R&B,’ joins to school Van on neo-soul (1:17:37).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-18•1hr 34mins

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#24

A Doechii Discussion and What Exactly Is an Industry Plant?

Van and Rachel react to questions about Doechii after she was invited onstage at a Lauryn Hill concert (12:35), Lil Yachty calls Black Lives Matter a "literal scam" (31:37), and Tucker Carlson touts the genetics of his people (45:10). Then a philosophical discussion on morality and religion: Can you have one without the other (57:44)?Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-14•1hr 24mins
#25

Five Things the Democrats Can Do, Plus Doechii Pisses Off Straight Men

Van and Rachel remember the life of D’Wayne Wiggins and the impact of Tony! Toni! Toné! (:37), before Van breaks down five things Democrats can do to win back voters (11:01), Gavin Newsom calls trans athletes in women’s sports unfair (45:51), and Dana White welcomes Andrew Tate with open arms (1:02:19). Plus, Doechii’s dating red flag had some men upset (1:14:10), LeBron confronts Stephen A. Smith (1:22:55), and Dr. Umar has a social media spat with his daughter (1:36:33).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-11•1hr 51mins
#26

Trump’s Tariff War and Democrats Sing on the Floor

Van and Rachel reflect on the life and career of Roy Ayers (1:40) and discuss Trump’s tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China (7:22). Then, Washington bureau chief for The Economist Idrees Kahloon joins to break down the economic strategy of the tariffs (28:26). Plus, Democrats protest through song (52:52), Ben Shapiro calls for a pardon of Derek Chauvin (1:08:52), and a young man dies while pledging Omega Psi Phi (1:14:00). Finally, Rachel names her top five interracial couples (1:29:01) and Sherri Shepherd has thoughts on revealing clothes (1:36:48). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Idrees KahloonProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-07•1hr 47mins
#27

An Oscars Recap, and Talking ‘Opus’ With Mark Anthony Green

Van and Rachel remember the life and career of Angie Stone (00:34) before reacting to the Oscars (2:36), and Van has thoughts on a Conan hip-hop joke (4:20). Then, a discussion of the lawsuit against Jay-Z being dropped (18:25), before filmmaker Mark Anthony Green joins to talk about his directorial debut, ‘Opus’ (42:22) and Ayo Edebiri’s star power (1:01:35).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Mark Anthony GreenProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-03-04•1hr 35mins
#28

The End of Medicaid? Plus, the Me Too Movement in 2025

Van and Rachel discuss the life and death of Gene Hackman (4:55), before reacting to the GOP budget bill that could cause major cuts to Medicaid and have ripple effects for Medicare (10:13) before welcoming CNN journalist Omar Jimenez to discuss the White House moving to pick the pool reporters who cover Trump (36:42). Plus, Me Too founder Tarana Burke discusses where the movement stands in 2025 (59:47).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Omar Jimenez and Tarana BurkeProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-28•1hr 31mins
#29

Van at Super Bowl Radio Row Pt. 2

Van’s radio row adventures continue, as he welcomes Pacman Jones and Evan Rosenblum to discuss 'The Pacman Jones Show' (0:00). Then he welcomes Carolina Panthers beat writer Sheena Quick (19:13) and NFL draft prospect Tetairoa McMillan (28:58). Plus, Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (34:20) and Steelers legend Joey Porter (40:20) join the show.Host: Van LathanGuests: Pacman Jones, Evan Rosenblum, Sheena Quick, Tetairoa McMillan, Rome Odunze and Joey PorterProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr., Cory McConnell, Chia Hao Tat, and Ronak Nair Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-21•53mins
#30

Van at Super Bowl Radio Row Pt. 1

While at Super Bowl LIX radio row, Van sat down with the likes of Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith (0:00), LSU great Andrew Whitworth (14:20), and a pair of legendary Saints Deuce McCallister (24:49, and Demario Davis (35:58).Host: Van LathanGuests: Emmitt Smith, Andrew Whitworth, Deuce McCallister, Demario DavisProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr., Cory McConnell, Chia Hao Tat, and Ronak Nair Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-18•47mins
#31

President Elon, and Healthy Arrogance With Will Packer

Van and Rachel discuss Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s plans for the federal government (19:28), and the potential end of New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s legal troubles (41:54). Then, a reaction to John Leguizamo’s Crip-walking claims (1:11:48), before film producer Will Packer joins the discuss his new book, ‘Who Better Than You?’ (1:19:50).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Will PackerProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-14•1hr 51mins
#32

Kendrick Lamar’s Televised Revolution and Ben Watkins Talks Alex Cross

Van and Rachel react to the Super Bowl (0:00) before giving their reviews of Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show (14:42). Then, Kanye West is regrettably in the news again (31:35), and Trump signs an order in solidarity with white South Africans (45:10). Finally, the showrunner of Prime Video’s ‘Cross,’ Ben Watkins, joins to discuss Aldis Hodge’s star power (55:51) and his thoughts on him possibly being the next Black Panther (1:08:37).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Ben WatkinsProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-11•1hr 20mins
#33

Marc Lamont Hill on Trump’s Vision for Gaza, and DEI in the NFL

Van and Rachel react to the death of Murder Inc. founder Irv Gotti (10:46), before discussing the NFL removing "End Racism" from the end zones at the Super Bowl (15:00), and Dennis Schröder compares NBA trades to modern slavery (32:30). Then, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill is back to talk about Donald Trump’s plan to take over Gaza (38:22), and resurfaced tweets has Van guessing the N-word count of Saquon Barkley’s fiancée (1:13:06).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Dr. Marc Lamont HillProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-07•1hr 23mins
#34

The Historic 67th Grammys, the Luka Trade, and a Tariff War

Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay start today’s episode by talking about the historic wins, controversial moments, and surprises from the 67th Grammys (05:21). Senior staff writer and fellow podcaster Justin Charity joins to give his opinion on the Grammys before discussing his Ringer podcast on the Kendrick-Drake beef culminating in Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance (27:46 ). Later, we talk with ‘Real Ones’ host Logan Murdock about the shocking NBA trade news (46:18). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-02-04•1hr 27mins
#35

DEI Did It, Plus ‘How to Sell Out’ and the Future of AI

Van and Rachel discuss the midair collision that killed 67 people (1:00) before reacting to Donald Trump pointing the finger at DEI initiatives (10:05). Plus, DJ Akademiks gets banned from Twitch after inappropriate comments toward a minor (20:51), and Scott Storch’s ex gets accused of racism after saying racist things (32:49). Then writer and podcaster Chad Sanders joins to talk authenticity and his new book, ‘How to Sell Out’ (38:14), before journalist Nathan Bomey from Axios explains DeepSeek and the future of AI (1:06:02).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Chad Sanders and Nathan BomeyProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-31•1hr 26mins
#36

Boycotts, Target and Tabitha Brown, Plus Snoop Speaks

Van and Rachel react to the death of DJ Unk (6:04), before discussing Tabitha Brown’s response to a call to boycott Target for ending DEI programs (15:40) and the Air Force’s choice to walk back a decision to end the use of a Tuskegee Airmen video from basic training (42:11). Then, Snoop Dogg responds to criticism for performing at a Trump inauguration event (57:03), Raven-Symoné speaks on racial identity (1:15:15), and Trump’s actions toward Colombia spark a debate on American supremacy (1:27:36). Plus the Michael Jackson biopic goes through major reshoots (1:39:11).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-28•1hr 46mins
#37

Trump, Nazis, and Leonardo DiCaprio’s N-Word Count

Van and Rachel react to President Trump’s executive orders (11:35) before welcoming assistant professor of law at Washington and Lee Maureen Edobor to dig into their legal and moral implications (22:33). Then Elon Musk salutes in a very Third Reich-ish kinda way (49:31 ), Sexyy Red apologizes to Bernice King (1:05:12), and Jamie Foxx discusses Leonardo DiCaprio’s discomfort with the N-word (1:15:50)Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Maureen EdoborProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-25•1hr 22mins
#38

Hip-Hop, MLK, and Trump’s Second Inauguration

Van and Rachel open the show with Coach Prime, a.k.a. impressionist Sam Croker (8:38), before welcoming the chairman of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, Ben Wikler, to discuss plans should he become chair of the DNC (27:43), and re-energizing the Democratic Party (33:12). Then, in-the-moment reactions to Donald Trump’s inauguration (1:02:10), and digging into Nelly, Snoop, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy’s participation (1:14:55). Plus, Byron Donalds calls Trump ‘daddy’ (1:42:30).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Sam Croker and Ben WiklerProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-21•1hr 52mins
#39

Drake’s Certified Legal Action and a Potential Ceasefire in Gaza

Van and Rachel discuss what looks to be a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas (7:44). Then, they welcome Toronto radio personality Marlon Palmer to break down the cultural impact of Drake’s lawsuit (15:24). Plus, Donnell Rawlings compares white and Black comedy culture (44:51), and SZA gets backlash for her praise of Drew Barrymore (1:03:14). Then, executive director of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition Sam Lewis joins to give insight on the firefighter inmate program in California (1:12:49). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuests: Marlon Palmer and Sam LewisProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-17•1hr 39mins
#40

The Political Firestorm and Recovery in L.A.

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

2025-01-14•1hr 52mins
#41

Processing the Los Angeles Wildfires With William Gude

Van and Rachel react to the devastation from the Los Angeles wildfires (0:00) before being joined by activist William Gude to provide insight on the fallout and impact of the disaster (16:01). Then, Stephen 'tWitch’ Boss’s widow, Allison Holker, has received criticism for the promotion of her memoir (47:40), Rachel speaks on her divorce being finalized (1:05:31) and Presidents Obama and Trump share a moment at Jimmy Carter’s funeral (1:12:50).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: William GudeProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2025-01-10•1hr 35mins
#42

The Fox Sports Lawsuit, and Drake’s Break Up With LeBron

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

2025-01-07•1hr 32mins
#43

A Higher Learning Rewind: Animal Welfare and the Return of Animal Games

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

2024-12-27•56mins
#44

Shameik Moore, Fat Joe, and Higher Learning’s Person of the Year

Van and Rachel kick off the last show of 2024 discussing the Matt Gaetz House Ethics report (5:19), reacting to ‘Into the Spider-Verse’ actor Shameik Moore’s questionable behavior with Spider-Man love interests (15:23), and Fat Joe’s comments on Foundational Black Americans (26:19). Then, a quick (and final) update on the Travis Hunter fiancé saga (41:18), Blake Lively’s legal action against Justin Baldoni (51:44), and NYPD corruption is brought to light (1:08:28). And finally, Van and Rachel reveal their Person of the Year (1:18:50).Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2024-12-24•1hr 28mins
#45

‘Growing Up Urkel’ With Jaleel White

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

2024-12-20•1hr 43mins
#46

Remy Ma and Papoose Drama, Plus Talking 100 Men in One Day With Ana Foxxx

Van and Rachel kick it off by reacting to Remy Ma and Papoose airing out cheating allegations via the internet (5:56) before discussing Jamie Foxx’s Netflix special (20:57) and the conservative backlash to Caitlin Clark’s TIME interview (28:44). Then adult film actress Ana Foxxx joins to give her perspective on OnlyFans model Lily Phillips having sex with 100 guys in 24 hours (37:47), and finally Jaleel White has a controversial take on Black audiences' acceptance of ‘Family Matters’ (1:11:06) Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel LindsayGuest: Ana FoxxxProducers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2024-12-13•1hr 27mins
#47

Unpacking the Jay-Z Allegations with Meghann Cuniff

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

2024-12-10•1hr 37mins
#48

Kendrick and the "White Comedian," Plus CEO Fatally Shot

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

2024-12-06•1hr 25mins
#49

Joe Biden Pardons, Kendrick Drops, and Drake Takes Legal Action

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

2024-12-03•1hr 34mins
#50

A Higher Learning Rewind: Parents Day

Let's take it back to Nov. 27th, 2021: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay are joined by their parents for a special, parents day edition of 'Higher Learning.' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2024-11-29•1hr 9mins

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