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Jemele Hill is Unbothered

ByUnbothered Network
222 episodes

Podcast Summary

Emmy Award-winning journalist and Webby Award winner Jemele Hill shares her unbothered, nuanced opinions on news, pop culture, politics, and sports. She also conducts intimate interviews with some of the biggest names and most thought-provoking contributors to culture, music, and entertainment. New episodes air every Monday.

#1

Ep 242: DON CHEADLE — Is This the Don Cheadle I Really Want?

Accomplished actor Don Cheadle joins Jemele for the season 4 finale to discuss his multi-decade acting career, including his new series Secret Invasion, which also stars longtime friend Sam Jackson. Don also shares the humorous story of how he landed the career-changing role of James Rhodes, also known as War Machine, in the Marvel Comic Universe. Don also explains why married his wife Brigid Coulter after 28 years of dating, and why he feels compelled to use his platform to candidly discuss social issues. Plus, Jemele pays tribute to her mother-in-law, Tanya Bailey, who recently passed and gives her thought on Carlee Russell’s hoax. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-07-31•1hr 2mins
#2

Ep 241: J.R SMITH - A Student and a Teacher

Two-time NBA champion J.R. Smith joins Jemele to discuss his 17-year NBA career, including the difficulties of transitioning from high school to the NBA, dealing with negative perceptions about him as a person and player, and how discovering a passion for golf fed his competitive spirit. J.R. also shares why he decided to start attending college at age 36, why he specifically picked a historically Black college, what it meant to join the school’s golf team, and what it was like to earn a 4.0. grade point average after struggling with a learning disability growing up. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on Wheel of Fortune star Vanna White being grossly underpaid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-07-17•1hr 8mins
#3

Ep 240: BLAIR UNDERWOOD - A Faith Walk

Actor Blair Underwood joins Jemele to discuss his versatile, multi-decade career, how he was inspired as a young actor by director Spike Lee, and how he landed his breakout role as the star of Krush Groove in the mid-1980s. Blair also discusses how starring in the popular television drama L.A Law changed his career, if the rumors are true that they plan to bring the series back, and he’s seen acting roles for Black men evolve as his career has progressed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-07-10•1hr 14mins
#4

Ep 239: KENNY LATTIMORE - The Sifter

Singer Kenny Lattimore joins Jemele to discuss his multi-decade career, including how he forged a relationship with Michael Jordan and the impact of fans finding out in Jordan’s documentary, The Last Dance, that the NBA superstar was a super fan. Kenny also shares his thoughts on the current landscape for R & B singers, and how he handled the music industry trying to change his image. Kenny also reveals why he passed on the song Love, which was written by Musiq Soulchild and became one of Musiq’s biggest hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-07-03•1hr 9mins
#5

Ep 238: DR. JOY HARDEN BRADFORD - Sisterhood is Resistance

Therapist, author and podcast host Dr. Joy Harden Bradford joins Jemele to discuss her new book, Sisterhood Heals, which explains how integral Black sister circles are to healing and building community. Dr. Joy also shares how she built the Therapy for Black For Black Girls mental health community, the four critical pillars for healthy sisterhood, why she believes it’s a mistake to use romantic relationships as a replacement for real sisterhood, and how women developed ideas about Black women and sisterhood from their mothers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-06-26•1hr 13mins
#6

Ep 237: KASI LEMMONS - It’s Not A Painting

Director Kasi Lemmons joins Jemele to discuss how she used her love of writing to make the transition from acting to directing. Kasi shares how directing Eves Bayou -- her first film — had an immense impact on her career, why the movie continues to be relevant, and whether or not she’s ever considered adapting Eve’s Bayou for television. Kasi also discusses what it was like directing the Whitney Houston biopic I Wanna Dance With Somebody, and the challenges associated with telling the story of one of the globe’s most beloved stars. She also shares her own experiences meeting Whitney Houston and how those experiences shaped the direction of the film. Plus, Jemele explains why she hates that she knows more about NBA star Zion Williamson than she ever planned to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-06-19•1hr 6mins
#7

Ep 236: DOMINIQUE FISHBACK - I Was Always Worth It

Actor Dominique Fishback joins Jemele to discuss her incredible performance in the Amazon Prime television series Swarm, and her upcoming role in the summer blockbuster, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Dominique shares what it was like playing Dre, a murderous, but naive woman who is obsessed with a global pop star. Dominique gives her thoughts on the assumption that Swarm was a critique of Beyoncé’s loyal fan base, and what it was like working with Chloe Bailey and Paris Jackson, the daughter of Michael Jackson. Dominique also reveals how journaling has helped her character development and personal growth. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on Abbott Elementary star Will Tyler James recent Instagram post about being questioned about his sexuality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-06-12•1hr 15mins
#8

Ep 235: SABRINA ELBA - Who Am I

Model and philanthropist Sabrina Elba joins Jemele to discuss her marriage to actor Idris Elba, their decision to start a skin care line together, and what it means for her to be an United Nations global ambassador for the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Sabrina shares her and Idris’ heartwarming, love at first sight origin story, and what it was like growing up in Canada as a Somalian. Plus, Jemele finally confesses to being a fan of a certain Hollywood billionaire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-06-05•1hr 15mins

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#9

Ep 234: JASON WILSON - A Comprehensive Man

Jason Wilson, the founder and operator of the Cave of Adullam Transformational Training Academy, joins Jemele to talk about his revolutionary martial arts training program that emphasizes the emotional growth and development of young Black boys. Jason also discusses the ESPN documentary made about his training program (Cave of Adullam), how Laurence Fishburne became involved as an executive producer and what the response has been. Jason also shares his own story, including how caring for his ailing mother changed his perspective on manhood. Plus, Jemele shared her thoughts on Brittney Griner’s official return to the WNBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-05-29•1hr 18mins
#10

Ep 233: NISCHELLE TURNER - Country Mouse, City Mouse

Entertainment Tonight host Nischelle Turner joins Jemele to discuss what it means for her to be the first Black woman to host the iconic entertainment show, and how she handled the ups and downs of her career before earning her dream job. Nischelle shares what it’s like covering and interviewing some of the biggest entertainers in the world, and how entertainment coverage has changed with the proliferation of bloggers covering entertainment news. Nischelle also discusses her country roots, including growing up on a pig farm. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on 50/50 relationships. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-05-22•1hr 22mins
#11

Ep 232: SHERRI SHEPHERD - Give Yourself Oxygen First

Talk show host and actor Sherri Shepherd joins Jemele to discuss the success of her talk show, Sherri, what it means that her show has been renewed for two additional seasons, and the popularity of her podcast with dear friend Kym Whitley, Two Funny Mamas. Sherri also shares why stand-up comedy remains her first love, and the lasting lessons she learned from her time as co-host on The View. Plus, Sherri is candid about the impact of having been divorced multiple times and why she doesn’t want to get married again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-05-15•1hr 14mins
#12

Ep 231: DR. YABA BLAY - Everybody Can’t Come

Scholar-activist Dr. Yaba Blay joins Jemele to discuss her social justice work, and academic background. Dr. Blay shares her thoughts on the significant changes in the social justice climate since George Floyd’s murder in 2020, her book, One Drop: Shifting the Lens, and what it means to be an ally versus an accomplice. Dr. Blay also explains how growing up in New Orleans shaped her, and web series, Professional Black Girl. Plus, Jemele shares her thought on the recent rash of gun violence where strangers were injured or murdered because of acts of snap aggression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-05-08•1hr 8mins
#13

Ep 230: LEILA MOTTLEY - The Exception?

Award-winning author Leila Mottley joins Jemele to discuss her highly-acclaimed, New York Times best-selling novel, Nightcrawling, which was published in 2022 when she was 20 years old. Leila shares how she came up with the idea to write a fiction novel about a Black Oakland teenager whose life is derailed by poverty, sex trafficking and corrupt police. She also discusses why it was important to center the experiences of a young, vulnerable Black girl in her debut novel, how she felt when Oprah chose her novel for her book club, and how she’s navigating her new life as a famous author. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on the firings of Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-05-01•1hr 6mins
#14

Ep 229: MALCOLM D. LEE - My Homeboy’s Wedding

Filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee joins Jemele to take a deep dive into his Best Man series, including his latest iteration The Best Man: The Final Chapters. Malcolm discusses the incredible reception the final chapter of the Best Man franchise received, and why he’s ending the series, despite its overwhelming success. Malcolm takes Jemele through the journey of getting the Best Man made, including how he wrote the screenplay in his parents basement. Malcolm also shares how his cousin, critically-acclaimed director Spike Lee, influenced his career, along with the success of ensemble cast movies Soul Food & Waiting to Exhale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-04-24•1hr 10mins
#15

Ep 228: CHLOE BAILEY - In Pieces

Singer and actor Chloe Bailey joins Jemele to discuss her debut solo album, In Pieces, and her current starring roles in two major film projects. Chloe shares what it was like being the centerpiece of the Peacock hit movie, Praise This. Chloe also discusses her provocative performance in the Donald Glover-executive produced thriller, Swarm, including her reaction to her sex scene with Damson Idris going viral. Chloe also gets emotional as she gives insight to some of the personal choices she made on her new album, reveals the constructive criticism her mentor, Beyonce, gave her about the album and she clears up whether her and her sister, Halle, plan to record another album together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-04-17•58mins
#16

Ep 227: SALLI RICHARDSON-WHITFIELD - No To The Short Money, Yes To The Long Game

Salli Richardson-Whitfield joins Jemele to discuss her career longevity, and how she navigated Hollywood during a time when there were limited roles for Black actresses. Salli also explains why she pivoted to directing, and shares if she intends to fully return to acting. Salli also discusses what it’s like directing the HBO hit series, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, starring John C. Reilly and Adrien Brody. Jemele also gives her thoughts on Donald Trump’s indictment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-04-10•1hr 4mins
#17

Ep 226: BOMANI JONES - Stumbling Into What You’re Made For

Media personality Bomani Jones joins Jemele to discuss the second season of his hit HBO show Game Theory with Bomani Jones, his pivot from being an economist to cultural commentator, and how he handled not completing his PhD. Bomani also shares how being raised by academics shaped his cultural viewpoint. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on Jonathan Majors recent arrest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-04-03•1hr 27mins
#18

Ep 225: BIANCA BELAIR - Take Up Space

Ahead of WrestleMania 39, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair joins Jemele to discuss her meteoric rise in professional wrestling, her journey from being one of the top collegiate track athletes into pro wrestling, and what it means for her to be the longest reigning Black world champion. Bianca is candid about her battle with eating disorders, and how she reclaimed her mental health. She also shares why she doesn’t want her marriage to fellow professional wrestler Montez Ford, to become a part of her or her husband's WWE storyline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-03-27•1hr 2mins
#19

Ep 224: ALLY LOVE - Boss Up

Media personality and popular Peloton fitness instructor Ally Love joins Jemele to discuss the traumatic childhood incident that shaped her perspective on life, how she went from being a trained dancer who danced with Beyonce to a Peloton instructor, and her new Netflix competitive dance show, Dance 100. Ally also shares if writing a book is on her radar, and recalls some of her memorable interactions with Peloton fans. Also, Jemele shares a traumatic story from her own childhood that changed her life forever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-03-20•1hr 19mins
#20

Ep 223: GRACE BYERS - I Am Enough

Actor Grace Byers joins Jemele to discuss the latest season of her hit Amazon Prime series, Harlem, and the complexities of her character, Quinn. Grace shares what she’s learned about herself during her pregnancy, what it was like growing up in the Cayman Islands with a deaf mother and how the bullying Grace experienced as a child inspired her to write children’s books. Grace also discusses the legacy of the show Empire, which she starred on for three seasons. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on the four Americans who were kidnapped in Mexico. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-03-13•1hr 11mins
#21

Ep 222: GABRIELLE DENNIS - God Got Me

Gabrielle Dennis joins Jemele to discuss her multi-faceted, multi-decade career, which has included acting, dancing, singing and stand-up comedy. Gabrielle shares her roots in stand-up comedy and why a breakout role on the hit series The Game caused her to pull back from stand-up comedy. She also reveals how became a regular cast member on A Black Lady Sketch Show, how the success of both former ABLSS cast member Quinta Brunson and show creator Robin Thede has influenced her career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-03-06•1hr 7mins
#22

Ep 221: AYANNA PRESSLEY - Transformational, not Transactional

Massachusetts Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley joins Jemele to discuss her personal battle with alopecia, what made her decide to wear a bald head, and how she feels her revealing this private struggle has impacted others. Rep. Pressley also responds to her Republican colleagues’ behavior during President Joe Biden’s State of the Union, and explains why she remains optimistic in such politically divisive times. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on the critics who attacked Johnathan Majors’ EBONY magazine cover. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-02-27•1hr 4mins
#23

Ep 220: GAIL BEAN - Gail’s World

Actor Gail Bean joins Jemele to discuss what it’s like having major roles on two hit shows, P-Valley and Snowfall. Gail shares how she felt filming the final season of Snowfall (premieres February 22), what it took to land the role as Wanda, and what it means to be part of the late John Singleton’s legacy. Gail also reveals how she eventually convinced her mother that she was serious about pursuing an acting career, and the Atlanta native divulges her list of the best strip clubs in her hometown. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on Idris Elba admitting that he no longer describes himself as a Black actor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-02-20•1hr 7mins

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#24

Ep 219: OMARI HARDWICK - I’m Here Now

Actor Omari Hardwick joins Jemele to discuss cultural impact of his hit television show, Power, and his role in helping the Power universe expand. Omari dives into how he played the iconic character, Ghost, and how it made him expose some of his own personal failings. Omari details his career journey, and the process of making himself into an actor after his professional football career didn’t pan out as expected. Omari also shares how he handled the social media backlash over his interracial marriage, and his thoughts on Tyre Nichols’ death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-02-13•1hr 11mins
#25

Ep 218: ERIC THOMAS - You Owe You

Motivational speaker Eric Thomas joins Jemele to discuss in detail his latest book, “You Owe You: Ignite Your Power, Your Purpose and Your Why.” Eric shares how his mother not disclosing the truth about his biological fatherhood led to him being homeless and estranged from his family. He also discusses how having children inspired him to reconnect with his father, explains the pitfalls of making yourself into a victim, and why his popularity as a motivational speaker hasn’t changed him. Also, Jemele shares her thoughts on Tyre Nichols. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-02-06•1hr 12mins
#26

Ep 217: WENDY RAQUEL ROBINSON - Your Seeds Shall Exceed You

Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson joins Jemele to discuss her lengthy career, and why she created the Amazing Grace Conservatory — an arts program whose alums include Issa Rae and Ashton Sanders. Wendy shares why it’s meaningful that her series The Game has been reprised on multiple networks and the evolution of her iconic role as Tasha Mack. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on Ed Reed’s very short tenure at Bethune-Cookman University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-01-30•57mins
#27

Ep 216: LA LA ANTHONY - Finding Purpose

La La Anthony joins Jemele to discuss her blossoming acting career, which includes roles on hit series BMF and The Chi, and her new movie, You People, starring Eddie Murphy. La La also shares how she’s fostered a healthy friendship and co-parenting with her ex-husband and former NBA star Carmelo Anthony, how she has transformed into a passionate sports parent, and why she chose to her deeply involved with a program that mentors young Black men who are incarcerated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-01-23•1hr 19mins
#28

Ep 215: MALCOLM-JAMAL WARNER - Hiding in Plain View

Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner joins Jemele to discuss his new television series, The Accused, his recent Grammy nomination for spoken word poetry, and fatherhood. Malcolm shares how his role on The Accused stretched him as an actor, and why he’s always been drawn to spoken word poetry. Malcolm also discusses his life on The Cosby Show and whether he resents Bill Cosby, who has faced a staggering number of sexual assault allegations. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on the Speaker of the House fiasco. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-01-16•1hr 8mins
#29

Ep 214: BORIS KODJOE - Letting Go of the Steering Wheel

Actor Boris Kodjoe joins Jemele to discuss his upbringing in Germany, difficult transition to America, and how he dealt with the devastating end of his tennis career. Boris also shares his accidental journey into acting, and the origin story of how he met and courted his wife, Nicole Ari Parker. Plus, Jemele shared her thoughts on Tory Lanez’s conviction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-01-09•1hr 10mins
#30

Ep 213: T.D. JAKES - Conveyer of Hope

Evangelist, author, filmmaker and businessman Bishop T.D. Jakes joins Jemele to discuss the origin story behind his ministry, why it was important for him to get involved in film and television and how he navigates teaching messages of unity during such a polarizing time. T.D., also shares what it means to be able to bring on-demand, spiritual content to Amazon, and the rise of his daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts, who will take over her father’s very popular Woman, Thou Art Loosed brand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023-01-02•1hr 5mins
#31

Ep 212: NAOMI ACKIE - I Wanna Dance With Somebody

Actor Naomi Ackie joins Jemele to discuss her upcoming blockbuster role as Whitney Houston in the biopic, I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Naomi shares how she prepared for the role vocally and emotionally, and what she how she learned about the pop icon from her extensive research. Naomi also discusses what it means for her to transition from supporting actress to lead role, how being involved with the Star Wars franchise changed her career, and she reveals some details about her new project that’s directed by Zoe Kravitz. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on Brittney Griner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-12-19•54mins
#32

Ep 211: NATURI NAUGHTON - The Last Woman Standing

Actor Naturi Naughton joins Jemele to reflect on her life-changing role as Tasha St. Patrick on hit television show, Power. Naturi shares how she landed the role, her thoughts on the show ending, and what it means seeing the numerous Power spin-offs. Naturi also discusses what it was like making her directorial debut, and life as a newlywed. Plus, Jemele has some words for the people trying to make it seem as if monstrous dictator Adolph Hitler wasn’t that bad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-12-12•1hr 2mins
#33

Ep 210: KEL MITCHELL - Anoint the Room

Actor, stand-up comedian and author Kel Mitchell joins Jemele to discuss his childhood acting career, and his wildly successful partnership with Kenan Thompson. Kel also discusses how a suicide attempt led him to deeply imbed himself in his faith and drew him toward the ministry. Kel also shares memories of his late friend, Coolio, and reveals some details to Good Burger 2, the sequel that’s in the works with Kenan. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on Trump’s controversial dining partner, white supremacist Nick Fuentes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-12-05•1hr 14mins
#34

Ep 209: J. ALPHONSE NICHOLSON - Breathing and Believing

Actor J. Alphonse Nicholson joins Jemele to discuss his groundbreaking, hit drama series, P-Valley. J. reveals how he landed the role of closeted gay rapper, Lil’ Murder, who has become one of the most complex and dynamic characters on television. J. discusses whether he had any reservations playing a gay man, the reception he’s received in the LGBTQ community, and how he’s chosen to address the homophobic attacks on the show. J. also recalls his days as a street performer in New York City, and why he chose to purse acting. Plus, Jemele gives her thought on the American Music Awards cancelling Chris Brown’s tribute to Michael Jackson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-11-28•1hr 13mins
#35

Ep 208: LAURENCE FISHBURNE - Characters Are Individuals

Actor Laurence Fishburne joins Jemele to discuss his powerful new documentary Cave of Adullam, which he executive produced for ESPN. Laurence takes a deep dive into some of his most iconic roles — Furious Styles, Ike Turner, and Morpheus. He also discloses the movie role he turned down that wound up launching Samuel L. Jackson into stardom and why he turned down What’s Love Got To Do With It before saying yes. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on disgraced former president Donald Trump announcing he will run for president for a third time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-11-21•59mins
#36

Ep 207: ELIE MYSTAL - The Constitution is Trash

Elie Mystal, justice correspondent for The Nation, joins Jemele to discuss the 2022 midterm election results. Elie shares why the media narrative of Republican dominance at the polls never materialized, gives his thoughts on why Stacey Abrams failed to win Georgia’s gubernatorial race, and where both Republicans and Democrats go from here in preparation for the 2024 presidential election. Elie also discusses his New York Times best-selling book, Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide To The Constitution, and why he stands by his assessment that the Constitution is “trash.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-11-14•1hr 16mins
#37

Ep 206: ROLAND MARTIN - Bring The Funk

Political commentator Roland Martin joins Jemele to discuss what’s at stake in the midterm elections, and how the Democrats can better message to Black male voters. Roland explains his path into journalism, why he’s remained committed to the Black press throughout his career and what it has been like creating his own Black media empire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-11-07•1hr 8mins
#38

Ep 205: DWYANE WADE - The Redeem Team

In a special live event, basketball superstar Dwyane Wade joins Jemele to discuss the Redeem Team, a Netflix documentary he executive produces about the 2008 men’s Olympic basketball team journey to reclaim America’s basketball dominance. Dwyane reflects on what it was like being a member of the national team that won only a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics, how he overcame injury to secure his place on the 2008 team, his memories of the late Kobe Bryant, and if the Olympic experience ever influenced Lebron James and Chris Bosh deciding to team up with him in Miami. Plus, Jemele welcomes the first two additions to the Unbothered network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-10-31•50mins
#39

Ep 204: JEMELE HILL - Uphill, The Podcast

Political commentator Angela Rye turns the tables on Jemele and interviews her about her new memoir, Uphill. Jemele shares how she navigated her mother and father’s drug abuse growing up in Detroit, and the impact it had on both relationships. Jemele also discusses her storied career, her religious upbringing, and the difficulties she found as a Black woman navigating mostly white corporate spaces. Plus, Jemele shares her thoughts on rapper and podcast host Noreaga’s controversial interview with Kanye West. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-10-24•1hr 17mins
#40

Ep 203: ATTICA LOCKE - Hanging Out With Your Own Mind

Writer and producer Attica Locke joins Jemele to discuss her new Netflix series, From Scratch, which she developed with her sister, Tembi. Attica shares what it was like working with her sister on a project that was based on her sister’s memoir, and explains why From Scratch was the hardest project she’s ever done. Attica also reflects on the legacy of the groundbreaking television drama Empire, a show she wrote for from 2015 to 2017. Plus, Jemele gives her thoughts on the racist vote recording leak involving key members of the Los Angeles City Council. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-10-17•1hr 6mins
#41

Ep 202: KENYA BARRIS - Black AF

Director and producer Kenya Barris joins Jemele to discuss his Netflix adult animation project with Kid Cudi, Entergalatic, the significance of being tapped to remake the Wizard of Oz, and what he would have changed about the Coming to America sequel. He also shares why he isn’t afraid to reboot or remake classic films, why he thought his hit sitcom “Black-ish” ended too soon, and he gives his thoughts on whether comedy and creativity are being suppressed by political correctness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-10-10•58mins
#42

Ep 201: WINSTON DUKE - The Noncompetitive/Noncomparative Mindset

Actor Winston Duke joins Jemele and reveals how he navigates Hollywood as a larger man, the impact of his breakout performance as M’Baku in Black Panther and how the cast handled filming of Black Panther 2 without the late Chadwick Boseman. Winston also discusses how he feels about his character from Black Panther becoming a sex symbol and he shares a harrowing personal story about being racially profiled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-10-03•1hr 23mins
#43

Ep 200: TANK - R&B Money

R&B superstar Tank joins Jemele for her 200th episode! Tank discusses why his current album, “R&B Money” is his last, shares the details behind his severe hearing loss, and how it has impacted his career, mental and physical health. Tank also reveals what he’s most looking forward to in his post-singing career, which includes him becoming diving deeper into acting and venturing into stand-up comedy. Plus, Jemele reflects on what it means to have recorded 200 podcast episodes and gives her thoughts on the misguided cancel campaign against the movie, The Woman King. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-09-26•1hr 16mins
#44

Ep 199: MUMU FRESH - A Sovereign Spirit

Grammy-nominated singer Mumu Fresh joins Jemele to discuss her career as an independent artist, her journey into music, and she intertwines her activism with her music. She also shares how she handled the overwhelming reception to her highly-acclaimed performance on NPR’s Tiny Desk Series, and how that performance impacted her career. She also reveals the origin of her name, and the role her family’s influence played in her pursuing music. Also, Jemele shares her thoughts on the recent deaths of Queen Elizabeth II and rapper PnB Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-09-19•1hr 8mins
#45

Ep 198: GINA PRINCE-BYTHEWOOD - Overcoming No

Film director Gina Prince-Bythewood joins Jemele to discuss her new blockbuster movie, Woman King, which stars Viola Davis. Gina shares what it was like working with Viola Davis and the cast’s strict fitness regimen in preparing for their roles as warriors. Gina also discusses why she’d never do a sequel to Love and Basketball, and how a gutsy move as an intern changed the course of her career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-09-12•1hr 13mins
#46

Ep 197: DAWN STALEY - North Philly’s Own

South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley joins Jemele to discuss winning her second national championship, becoming the highest-paid Black female coach in history, and why she’s been so vigilant about pushing for pay equity for women. Dawn also discusses being a trailblazer, WNBA superstar Brittney Griner’s imprisonment in Russia, and if she’d ever consider coaching in the NBA. Plus, Jemele shares why the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi is an egregious example of environmental racism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-09-05•1hr 10mins
#47

Ep 196: STERLING K. BROWN - New Path, Who Dis?

Actor Sterling K. Brown joins Jemele to discuss his new movie, “Honk For Jesus,” a mockumentary in which he plays a megachurch pastor that’s fallen from grace. Sterling also reflects on the end of his highly-acclaimed television show and the widespread impact of his character Randall Pearson. He also shares entertaining stories about his marriage to actress Ryan Michelle Bathe, and explains how he got out of the friend zone with his wife. Plus, Jemele has thoughts on those criticizing President Joe Biden for providing student loan relief to borrowers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-08-29•1hr 7mins
#48

Ep 195: IDRIS ELBA - I Made it Here

Idris Elba joins Jemele to discuss his new movie, “Beast,” where he plays a doctor trying to protect his family from a ferocious lion. Idris also shares if he’s thought about leaving acting altogether to focus on producing and music, why he’s tired of the James Bond questions, and if it bothers him that he’s never received an Oscar nomination, despite stirring performances in several critically-acclaimed roles. Plus, Jemele has some words for President Joe Biden’s critics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-08-22•46mins
#49

Ep 194: GRANT HILL - Game

Former NBA superstar and current basketball analyst Grant Hill joins Jemele to discuss his new memoir, “Game: An Autobiography,” which details his personal and professional journey. Grant opens up about his marriage to R&B star Tamia, including their origin story, how she helped him through a life-threatening injury, and how they’ve navigated a high-profile marriage for 20-plus years. Grant also shares how he and Tamia are handling their oldest daughter, Myla, becoming a MMA fighter. Plus, Jemele discusses the murder of Atlanta rapper Trouble. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-06-13•1hr 15mins
#50

Ep 193: DR. ROXANE GAY — If You Clap, I Clap Back

Dr. Roxane Gay joins Jemele to discuss her celebrated writing career, which includes her critically-acclaimed books, Bad Feminist and Hunger. Roxane also shares how she became an intense competitive Scrabble player, why she keeps a nemesis list (but won’t expand it), and what it was like getting married during the pandemic. Plus, Jemele reflects on her adventures in Las Vegas during Memorial Day weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2022-06-06•1hr 13mins

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