Not Your Black Friends: Recent Episodes
Not Your Black Friends
Not Your Black Friends is a podcast about Black culture, faith, and politics. It is hosted by Spencer Clayton and Tia Burroughs Clayton--a married couple with a love for conversation. For more information, visit our website at http://nybfpodcast.com.
In this special episode, Spencer takes a break from his parental leave to talk about Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the Federal trial of Ahmaud Arbery’s killers Gregory McMichael, Travis McMichael, and William “Roddie” Bryan” and the sentencing trial of Daunte Wright’s killer Kim Potter. We also discuss Ukraine, the conflicts of interest of Ginni Thomas, and the 2022 Winter Olympics. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the recent incidents of body shaming involving Nelly, Lil Fizz, and 50 Cent. We also discuss Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s thoughts on the fragile state of American democracy, Rep. Nancy Pelosi coming out against defunding the police, the Super Bowl Halftime Show, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
This week, we discuss the Alabama redistricting case that has the potential to fundamentally alter Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, the Federal grant on harm reduction that conservatives misrepresented as government-funded crack pipes, Whoopi Goldberg’s problematic statements on the Holocaust, Thandiwe Newton’s difficulty understanding colorism, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss Janet Jackson's documentary. We also talk about President Biden's efforts to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court, Prime Minister Boris Johnson partying during lockdown, the viral Golden Corral brawl, and more. For more information, visit us at http://nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the firing of racist Wyoming Police Officer Christian Handley at the hands of Sheriff Aaron Appelhans—the first Black Sheriff in the history of Wyoming. We also discuss President Biden losing his cool and getting caught on a hot mic, Wharton students overestimating the income of the average person in the United States, Disney’s Encanto, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Tulsa Pastor Mike Todd going viral for rubbing spit on a parishioner. We also discuss the current status of President Biden's efforts to revise the legislative filibuster in order to pass voting rights legislation, a vandal targeting speed cameras in Wilmington, DE, the closing of the last Sears department store in Pennsylvania, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss what it means now that the original 'Winnie The Pooh' story by A.A. Milne is public domain. We also discuss President Biden’s push for an end to the legislative filibuster in order to find a path forward for voting rights legislation and the sentencing of Travis McMichael, Gregory McMichael, and William “Roddie” Bryant for their involvement in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss Ghislane Maxwell’s guilty verdict as well as some of her unusual behavior during her trial. We also talk about the anniversary of the January 6 insurrection, NY Attorney General Letitia James subpoenaing Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump, Jr., Tristan Thompson’s admission that he did in fact father a child while dating Khloe Kardashian, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss Martin Luther King, III and his efforts to gather over 800 faith leaders together to push President Biden and Senate Democrats into passing Voter Rights legislation. We also talk about the conviction of former Brooklyn Center police officer Kim Potter in the killing of Daunte Wright, we debate whether shame ever has a place in the punishment of children, and we give our thoughts on the series finale of Issa Rae’s critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Insecure.’ For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the pending divorce of actress Meagan Good and preacher DeVon Franklin. We also discuss Senator Joe Manchin blocking the Build Back Better Plan and former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin changing is plea to guilty in the Federal trial for his involvement in the murder of George Floyd. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Dr. Mehmet Oz and his U.S. Senate run, the mysterious money found in a wall at Pastor Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church, Tristan Thompson’s alleged third child, Gorilla Glue girl Tessica Brown going bald, and more.
In this episode, we discuss the disturbing sexual assault allegations against Don Lemon as well as his potential involvement in the Jussie Smollett scandal. We also discuss the resolution to the debt ceiling conflict, the firing of Chris Cuomo, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the Omicron variant and the Black Twitter memes connecting it to singer Omarion. We also discuss the repetitive nature of the debt ceiling crisis, the feud between Rep. Lauren Boebert and Rep. Ilhan Omar, CNN anchor Chris Cuomo’s involvement in his brother former NY Governor Andrew Cuomo’s scandal, the Ahmaud Arbery verdict, Porsha Williams’ involvement with R. Kelly, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss whether Biden’s infrastructure bill goes far enough in its efforts to fix communities that were damaged by the building of the United States interstate system and we give our thoughts on the conversation about whether or not Taylor Swift is a better overall artist than Whitney Houston. We also discuss the Kyle Rittenhouse verdict, the controversial remarks made by a defense attorney in the trial against Ahmaud Arbery’s murderers, the feminist backlash against 'King Richard', and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In honor of the November 15 birthdays of Twinkie Clark and Karen Clark Sheard, we are revisiting our review of ‘The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel’ which was released on Lifetime in 2020. This episode originally aired on April 17, 2020. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
This week, we revisit our conversation from July 1, 2020 about the multifaceted effects of racism featuring Dr. Ana Ruediger, a naturopathic physician. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
This week, we revisit our 2020 Episode entitled ‘Understanding 2016: The Mainstreaming of Racism in American Politics’ featuring Professor Sanford F Schram, Ph.D. professor of Political Science at Hunter College discussing his book 'Hard White: The Mainstreaming of Racism in America' written with Richard C. Fording, Ph.D., University of Alabama professor of Political Science.
On this Halloween themed episode, we continue our discussion on the October 13 sexual assault that occurred on the Market Frankford Train Line in the Philadelphia area now that it has been revealed that police officers misrepresented the actions of bystanders in order to fuel a false narrative about urban chaos. We also discuss Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his offer to out-of-state police officers who disagree with vaccine mandates to move to his state with a $5,000 bonus and we give a brief reflection on the fact that the Not Your Black Friends Podcast is now 2. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the incident that occurred on October 13, 2021 during which a woman was raped on a Philadelphia train in front of several people who chose not to intervene or call authorities. We also discuss the death of Colin Powell. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
This week we discuss the controversy surrounding Dave Chappelle’s recent Netflix special ‘The Closer.’ We also discuss the short-term solution to the debt ceiling crisis in Congress, TX Governor Greg Abbott’s ban on vaccine mandates in private entities, and we give our thoughts on the New York Times article ‘Who is the Bad Art Friend?’ For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Grey’s Anatomy actress Ellen Pompeo’s decision to share a story of an argument that occurred between she and Academy Award winner Denzel Washington when she undermined his authority while he was a guest director in 2015. We also talk about journalist Katie Couric’s decision to retell a story of an awkward interview she had with Denzel Washington in 2004 and we discuss how it is not possible to view either of these incidents without acknowledging the history of white women using their privilege and power to subjugate and endanger black men. We also mention the struggle occurring in the Senate between Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, Sen. Joe Manchin, and other Democrats over the infrastructure bill and we give our thoughts on Season 4 of Dear White People on Netflix. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Will Smith’s GQ interview in which he revealed that he and Jada have had periods of nonmonogamy within their marriage. We also discuss the ongoing saga surrounding with Congress, the debt ceiling, and the need for a spending package, the Arizona audit that reaffirmed President Biden’s victory, the COVID-19 false positives on the View, and the guilty verdict in the R. Kelly trial. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we reflect on what it has been like recording one hundred full episodes of this podcast. We also discuss the debt ceiling controversy in Congress, the poor treatment of Haitian refugees trying to cross the border from Mexico into the United States, the tragic death of Gabby Petito, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the California Recall Election, US Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez's dress at the Met Gala and Whoopi Goldberg's tone deaf reaction to taxing the rich, Chloe Bailey's sexy solo VMA debut, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we take a break from politics and pop culture and focus on something a bit more personal--pregnancy. We talk about how our society regularly devalues the challenges associated with pregnancy and we discuss how Tia's pregnancy is changing both our relationship and our outlook on life. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we talk about the way that conservatives have latched onto the narrative that blames President Biden and his supporters for the messy U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. We also have a debate about whether or not it is appropriate to bill people who RSVP and then do not show up for weddings and we spend a bit of time discussing the 20th anniversary of Aaliyah’s tragic death as well as new revelations about her life from the trial of R. Kelly. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Sha’Carri Richardson’s return to track and field in the Nike Prefontaine Classic. We also discuss Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s false assertion that African Americans were driving the high COVID numbers in his state. We conclude with a recap of our recent trip to Atlanta and an unfortunate experience with less-than-tasty soul food. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we bring back Spencer’s mother Julia Clayton for a conversation about feeling overwhelmed between the pandemic, natural disasters, and political upheaval taking place this summer. We also discuss TX Governor Greg Abbott’s coronavirus diagnosis and the United States Military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the passage of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's resignation, Republican governors' contradictory responses to the delta variant, the 2020 Olympics, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s disastrous response to the results of the New York Attorney General Letitia James’ investigation into the sexual harassment allegations against him. We also discuss rapper DaBaby’s homophobic rant and Simone Biles’ triumphant return to the balance beam during the 2020 Olympics. Visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we talk about gymnast Simone Biles’ bold decision to prioritize her mental health by pulling out of the Gymnastics Team Final at the 2020 Olympics this week. We also discuss the House Committee Hearing about January 6, the CDC’s reversal on mask guidance, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the Billionaire Space Race and the fact that the spacecraft that Jeff Bezos launched resembled a giant phallus. We also talk about Texas House Democrats, their effort to fight against voter suppression, and Senator Lindsey Graham’s reaction and we give our thoughts on the relationship between capitalism and Japan’s need for the Olympics to go forward in spite of the presence of COVID-19 in the Olympic Village. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we talk about the way that conservatives have latched onto the word “woke” in their culture war against the teaching of our nation’s racist history. We also discuss the trend for terms and customs that originate in the Black community to become a part of mainstream American society often with no credit or attribution and give our thoughts on the recent strike among Black tiktok creators. We conclude by spending time reflecting on our three years of marriage. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss several of the racist incidents involving the penalization of Black women in the 2020 Olympics including Sha’Carri Richardson’s suspension, Brianna McNeal’s five-year ban, Alice Dearing and the Soul Cap, Simone Biles having her amazing gymnastic skills undervalued by judges, and the many African women banned from running 400m and 800m because of their naturally high testosterone. We also discuss Nikole Hannah-Jones’ decision to go teach at Howard University after finally being offered tenure at UNC Chapel Hill, and two recent incidents in the Philadelphia area where white supremacists got the exact kind of unceremonious welcome they deserved. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the realization that we are no longer in the target age bracket for the entertainment industry after being woefully unaware that the BET Awards were airing last weekend. We also discuss, Texas Rep. Dan Crenshaw’s efforts to have Olympic Hammer Thrower Gwen Berry removed from the U.S. Team due to her protesting the National Anthem, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his efforts to survey the political beliefs of staff and students of Florida State Universities, Attorney General Merrick Garland’s efforts to sue Georgia over its restrictions to voting, the Derek Chauvin sentencing trial, and the BET Awards. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss Olympic sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson and the sexist and classist overtones in the reactions to her means of self expression. We also discuss the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and their decision to draft a formal statement that would give individual bishops the ability to prevent pro-choice Catholic politicians from receiving the Eucharist, the irony of the Senate’s inability to pass the “For the People Act” after voting to make Juneteenth a Federal holiday, Nick Cannon’s rapidly increasing number of children, and as promised, we give our review of ‘In the Heights.’ For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
This week, we discuss the controversy surrounding the absence of Afro-Latinx actors from most of the principal roles in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights.’ We also discuss the surprising end to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s term, the Senate confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the D.C. Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals, and the Chrissy Teigen bullying saga. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss Sen. Joe Manchin's refusal to vote in favor of the "For the People Act," Hunter Biden's use of the N-word while texting his lawyer, Maryland's decision to limit the use of commercial genealogy websites in criminal investigations, the end of the critically acclaimed series 'Pose,' and more. Visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we talk about the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa race massacre and discuss the history of White rage responding to Black progress in the United States. We also talk about the Philadelphia location of Steak 48 implementing a dress code and a $100 food and beverage minimum and how people are split on whether this is a positive development or a part of the trend of denying access to private entities using vague policies to deny access to people of color. We then have a mini debate about the necessity of high school reunions since this month marks 20 years since our high school graduation. Finally, we share details from our recent vacation. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
This week, we discuss Pennsylvania becoming the first state in the country to limit the power of its Governor as a result of pandemic-related emergency declarations. We also discuss the Philadelphia District Attorney Democratic primary race between incumbent and progressive Larry Krasner and his ill-fated establishment challenger Carlos Vega. We revisit our very first interview with Stephanie Webb about ‘Harriet’ starring Cynthia Erivo. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the revelation that Bill Gates was unfaithful in his marriage to his soon-to-be ex wife Melinda and how cheating isn’t limited to attractive men. We also discuss the Supreme Court’s decision to take on a case about Mississippi’s abortion ban on abortions after fifteen weeks of pregnancy, the dropping of charges in the case of Andrew Brown, Jr., Federal investigations into the death of George Floyd, and the overall operations of the Minneapolis Police Department as well as the announcement of an investigation into the overall operations of the Louisville Police Department in response to the unjust killing of Breonna Taylor. Later, we give our thoughts on the cancellation of ABC’s ‘Mixed-ish,’ the announced end of ‘Black-ish,’ and the rapidly approaching end of ‘Pose’ on FX. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we examine Critical Race Theory--the framework that Republicans across the country are trying to ban. Adjunct Professor, scholar, and Ph.D. candidate Kate Jackson Cruz joins us for this conversation. We also talk about the pending ouster of Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney from Republican leadership due to her criticism of Trump as well as her potential Trump-endorsed replacement New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, the recent rise and fall of Dogecoin, and the suspicious timing of 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' star Porsha Williams' engagement to her former costar's ex husband. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
This week, we discuss President Biden’s goal to reach 70% vaccination in the United States by July 4. We also talk about the Republican backlash against Rep. Liz Cheney for standing up to former President Trump’s off to undermine our democracy, the divorce of Bill and Melinda Gates, NJ Vice Principal Michael Smurro going viral defending his wife's transphobic rant, and a few stories of people who lost their jobs due to their racism. Tia returns from her break. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the impact of the 2020 Census on House seats and the Electoral College. We also discuss the police-involved killings of Ma’Khia Bryant and Andrew Brown, Jr. as well as the police-involved shooting of Isaiah Brown. Poet, playwright, and Marvel aficionado Victoria Crenshaw joins us to talk about ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.’ For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss our reactions to the Derek Chauvin guilty verdict while remembering the upcoming trials and investigations surrounding police brutality including the recent deaths of Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, and Ma’Khia Bryant. We also discuss Republican attempts to censure Rep. Maxine Waters even though they excused former President Trump for saying and doing far worse things. We also sit down with pastor and filmmaker Tai Birch for a conversation about what it is like to parent Black children at this trying time. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, special guest (and Spencer’s little cousin) Jordan Williams-Crenshaw shares his story about how he was radicalized by the far right as a teen by way of the internet. We also give updates on President Biden’s American Jobs Plan and we discuss the Derek Chauvin trial, the death of Daunte Wright in suburban Minneapolis at the hands of a 26-year police department veteran who claims she got a taser confused with a gun, and the video of Army Lt. Caron Nazario’s problematic encounter with the Windsor Police Department. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we give our thoughts on Lifetime’s ‘Mahalia’ starring Danielle Brooks and produced by Robin Roberts. This conversation features special guest Julia Clayton who is Spencer’s mom. We also talk about Biden’s infrastructure plan, the Matt Gaetz scandal, the arrest of Jen Shah of ‘Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,’ and the firing of former NBA player Paul Pierce from his position as an NBA analyst for ESPN following his posting of a racy video to his Instagram account. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss President Biden’s first news conference and Republican voter suppression efforts in Georgia, Lil Nas X’s controversial new video for his song “Montero” and the long tradition of artists pushing boundaries, and Sharon Osbourne’s exit from ‘The Talk’ following her ill-advised attempt at supporting Piers Morgan. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss how Republican NY Rep. Tom Reed’s attempt at calling out NY Governor Andrew Cuomo only served to expose his own indiscretions. We also discuss how relationship guru Derrick Jaxn is used his apology for being caught cheating as a means of launching a new endeavor with his previously hidden wife, we talk about the role of anti-Asian racism in the Atlanta mass shooting, and we marvel at how law enforcement and some media outlets go out of their way to humanize perpetrators when they are not people of color. During the self care segment, Spencer reflects on what it’s like to lose a 20-year friendship. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the fallout from the leak of audio of gospel recording artist Kirk Franklin’s profanity-laced rant from a heated conversation with his eldest son Kerrion. We also discuss the decision to remove Pepe Le Pew from all subsequent Looney Tunes projects after an opinion piece by New York Times columnist Charles Blow. We spend the remainder of the episode discussing stimulus check shaming, Republicans refusing coronavirus vaccines on partisan grounds, ‘The Bachelor’ controversy over racist social media posts that led Matt James to break up with winner Rachael Kirkconnell, and ‘Coming 2 America.’ Visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss Oprah Winfrey's interview with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as well as Piers Morgan's exit from 'Good Morning Britain'. We also talk about progress surrounding President Biden's $1.9 Trillion stimulus, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo's refusal to resign, charges being dropped in the case of Kenneth Walker who was the boyfriend of Breonna Taylor, and more. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the artist Tommy Zegan’s Golden Trump Statue that was unveiled the the Conservative Political Action Conference last week. We also discuss the sexual harassment allegations made against New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, the murder of Ronald Greene at the hands of Louisiana police officers, updates in the investigation of the murder of Elijah McClain at the hands of Colorado police officers, the recent emergency authorization of the Johnson and Johnson coronavirus vaccine, and we give our thoughts on the unexpected impacts of video calls at work. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we talk about the monumental failure of the deregulated energy market in Texas, which resulted from unusual and severe winter weather. We discuss Senator Ted Cruz’s efforts to flee to Cancun and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s efforts to help Texas residents in spite of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s attempt to blame the power grid’s failure on the Green New Deal even though it has no passed yet. We also talk about the revelation that Governor Andrew Cuomo’s administration made a point of not releasing data about the high amount of COVID-19 deaths in New York nursing homes and we give our thoughts on Dr. Henry Louis Gates’ new documentary ‘The Black Church: This is our Story, This is our Song.’ For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we give our review of 'Judas and the Black Messiah' starring Daniel Kaluuya and Lakeith Stanfield. We also talk about former President Trump's acquittal, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's fluency in doublespeak, and the Southern Poverty Law Center's decision to stop tracking "Black Separatist Groups" in an effort to stop perpetuating the narrative that "Black Separatist Groups" and "White Supremacist Groups" are equal in their negativity. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the backlash that Black women tend to receive after singing the National Anthem. In spite of their brilliant performances, Jazmine Sullivan and H.E.R. received mixed reviews for their respective performances of the National Anthem and “America the Beautiful” during Super Bowl LV. Indeed, there was still a segment of social media that criticized them for “not singing the songs the way they were written” even though all performers work to put their stamp on these songs during such large performances. We talk about how social media has emboldened racists, but we also give historical examples to show that this phenomenon is not new. In addition, we discuss Trump’s impeachment, the next stimulus check, and vaccine distribution as well as other Super Bowl Performances. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the last-minute changes to Trump’s legal team for his upcoming Senate trial, Rihanna calling out Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, the weakened stimulus plan endorsed by a group of ten moderate Republican Senators, and the Philly Fighting COVID fiasco in which the City of Philadelphia partnered with an unproven nonprofit run by Andrei Doroshin, a 22-year old Drexel University grad student, for COVID vaccine distribution instead of the more established Black Doctors Consortium. Then, we give our take on the Wendy Williams movie and documentary. We also celebrate the return of the ‘Job Openings’ segment with a discussion about the NYC SoulCycle instructor who claimed she was an educator to get early access to the COVID vaccine and the incredibly racist and profane conversation that led to the resignation of Hamilton, GA Police Chief Gene Almond’s and the firing of Hamilton, GA Officer John Brooks. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we give our thoughts on President Joe Biden's call to unity during his inauguration in light of the Republican history of obstruction and the prevalence of conspiracy theories like Q-Anon. We also talk about Dominion’s lawsuit against Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani, give our thoughts on Lifetime’s ‘Salt-N-Pepa’, give an update on our missing packages from USPS, and Spencer explains why he stopped seeing his therapist. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, recorded just before the inauguration of President Joe Biden, we give our thoughts on former President Trump’s refusal to attend the inauguration celebration. We also discuss how the insurrection led to an increase in security for the inauguration and how twelve National Guard members who were scheduled to work during the inauguration were removed from duty after the FBI’s vetting process exposed their ties to extremist groups. We conclude with an update on Tia’s missing packages from the holidays and a brief discussion about the role of shame in our healthcare system thanks to Spencer’s recent trip to the dentist. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we discuss the insurrection that took place at the Capitol on January 6, 2021 and why it was not a surprise to Black America given the history of white uprisings in the United States. We also give updates on SoHo Karen and the packages that we're still waiting for the post office to deliver. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the cost of an unformed populace by talking about Steven Brandenburg, the Wisconsin pharmacist and conspiracy theorist who destroyed over 500 doses of the Moderna coronavirus vaccine. We discuss how Los Angeles County, CA is limiting availability of ambulances as a result of high COVID rates. We also give updates on Republican plans to contest the certification of Electoral College votes on Wednesday, January 6, mention the controversy about Rep. Emanuel Cleaver ending his prayer with "Amen and A-woman," and we talk about our recent issues with missing and delayed packages from the Post Office. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we celebrate the end of 2020 by talking about the latest developments in the efforts to pass this latest stimulus package by the end of the year, the firing of the Columbus police officer responsible for the death of Andre Hill, the racial profiling of Keyon Harrold, Jr., and two recent memes that have kept us laughing: The "Twisted Tea" fight and 15th Century Monk with a striking resemblance to white male residents of Northeast Philadelphia. We end with themes from our self care for 2020. For more information, check us out at http://nybfpodcast.com
This week, we talk about the ongoing conflict between Congress and President Trump about the pending pandemic relief package. We also talk about how politically-motivated changes to USPS operations have led the delay of many package deliveries during the Holiday season. We conclude with our usual discussion on our self care and how the pandemic has made us adjust our holiday plans. For more information, visit us at http://nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we talk about President Trump’s refusal to concede in spite of the electoral college vote recognizing Vice President Joe Biden as President-Elect. We talk about the double standard of President Trump peddling anti-intellectualism and promoting the notion that academics and people with degrees from highly selective educational institutions are out-of-touch elites even though he and his children are Wharton graduates. We also discuss the Wall Street Journal opinion piece about Dr. Jill Biden’s credentials and point out how women and people of color have their qualifications questioned on a regular basis regardless of how accomplished they are. We end with a discussion on the differing treatments of classism and colorism in reality television as seen on the first episode of the ‘Real Housewives of Potomac’ reunion.
In this episode, we talk about the Black prophetic preaching tradition and we discuss the way that conservatives have used Georgia Senate candidate Rev. Raphael Warnock’s support of Rev. Jeremiah Wright against him. We also discuss the death of Casey Goodson, Jr. at the hands of the Columbus Police Department in Ohio, and we mention Steven LaTulippe—the Oregon doctor who lost his license after speaking out against mask wearing.
In this episode, we discuss the way that former Trump allies are becoming more comfortable acknowledging his defeat after the recent certification of election results in the six states where Trump pursued legal action. We specifically mention Attorney General William Barr and Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. We also talk about recent instances of political pandering from both Republicans and Democrats, we briefly mention the recent boxing match between Mike Tyson and Roy Jones, Jr., and we discuss the case of Quawan Charles--the Louisiana teenager who was found dead under suspicious circumstances reminiscent of a lynching.
In this episode, we focus on how the almost 30-year feud between Will Smith and Janet Hubert ended during the 30th anniversary celebration of ‘The Fresh Prince of Belair.’ We also talk about the Trump administration finally beginning to work with the Biden administration on their transition, the latest COVID-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca, and the unusual life Mary Cosby from ‘Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.’
In this episode, we reflect on how the Christmas Season used to start after Thanksgiving and now starts the day after Halloween with Christmas decorations available for purchase in early October. We also talk about Lehigh County Republican Dean Browning and the controversy surrounding his viral tweet and we briefly discuss the Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccines. We spend most of the episode talking about the predictable nature of Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel, our thoughts on ‘Jingle Jangle’ on Netflix, and Spencer’s memories of the 1989 film ‘Polly.’
In this episode, we talk about the reactions of President Donald Trump, his administration, and his followers to his loss at the hands of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris. We specifically discuss how President Trump questioned the integrity of just about every public institution that attempted to hold him accountable and why his supporters fall for it. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss the 2020 Presidential Election, which was happening while we recorded. We continue our discussion by pointing out the importance of voting in all elections. We also talk about the murder of Walter Wallace, Jr. at the hands of the Philadelphia Police, how the Trump Administration has used it for further fear mongering, and what it says about our country’s ability to always see Black people as threats—even when they are clearly suffering from mental illness.
In this episode, we celebrate our first anniversary by talking with Sanford F. Schram, Ph.D., Hunter College professor of Political Science about his new book 'Hard White: The Mainstreaming of Racism in America' written with Richard C. Fording, Ph.D., University of Alabama professor of Political Science. For show notes and more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we discuss 50 Cent and Ice Cube—two Black male rappers who have recently given varying degrees of support to the Trump administration. We also talk about Vice President Biden and President Trump’s dueling town halls on ABC and NBC respectively. For more information, visit us at http://nybfpodcast.com
In this episode, we talk about the way the stereotype of the angry black woman has been weaponized in two recent incidents. First, we discuss the way Senator Kamala Harris was portrayed as an angry black woman because of her facial expressions during the Vice Presidential Debate even though it was clear that she went to great lengths to tone herself down. Then, we discuss the fight that took place between Monique Samuels and Candiace Dillard-Bassett on Bravo’s ‘Real Housewives of Potomac’ and the way reality television benefits from the angry black woman stereotype. We also spend a bit of time talking about President Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis. For more information, visit us at http://www.nybfpodcast.com.
In this episode, we continue our discussion about our decision to wait until marriage for sex. The prior episode of this series is available here: https://www.notyourblackfriendspodcast.com/episodes/episode-40-our-decision-to-wait-until-marriage. We also discuss President Trump's negative callout of our Philadelphia, our hometown, during his first debate with Vice President Joe Biden. This special episode is also available on YouTube.
In this episode, we discuss President Trump's tax returns, his lack of income tax payments, and the revelation that he received $72 million in refunds from the Federal Government. For those reasons, we refer to him as a "welfare queen"--a stereotype that is wrongly applied to Black women even though people like our president defraud the government at levels unaccessible to most residents of this country. We also discuss the disturbingly low level of charges filed in the Breonna Taylor murder case.
In this episode, we discuss former Tallahassee Mayor and 2018 Florida Gubernatorial Candidate Andrew Gillum's interview with Tamron Hall and what it reveals about our society's attitudes on bisexuality in Black men. We also talk about 'The Social Dilemma' on Netflix, and we vent about Republican hypocrisy following the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
In this episode, we start with conversation about the mass sterilizations occurring at an ICE facility in Georgia and California's plan to expunge the records of inmates who volunteer to fight wildfires. We also discuss the controversy surrounding Maimouna Doucoure's 'Cuties' and the $12 million settlement awarded to Breonna Taylor's family.
In this episode, we discuss Jessica Krug--the George Washington University history professor who was exposed for lying about her race and ethnicity. Since it's Tia's birthday, we take a detour from our usual topics to discuss one of Tia's favorite people--Meghan Markle. Specifically, we discuss Prince Harry and Meghan Markle becoming financially independent thanks to a $150 million Netflix deal. We also talk about the boats that sunk during a Trump Boat Parade in Texas.
In this episode, we discuss the conservative embrace of Kyle Rittenhouse, the NBA players strike in response to the shooting of Jacob Blake and Barack Obama's intervention, Pastor John Gray's affair, and the death of 'Black Panther' star Chadwick Boseman at 43.
In this episode, we talk about the differing strategies utilized during the Republican National Convention and the Democratic National Convention. We also discuss Herschel Walker's defense of President Trump, the unlawful shooting of Jacob Blake, and NBC News posting a picture of comedian Kevin Hart in an article about Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt.
In this episode, we discuss the way Kamala Harris and Barack Obama’s racial identities were used against them during their political campaigns. We also talk about ways to bring about progressive policies outside of federal elections, Republicans suddenly backing away from their efforts to slow down mail ahead of this November’s election, and the backlash from the teaser for the fourth season of ‘Black Love’ on OWN.
In this episode, we discuss the controversial new song W.A.P. by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion and what the backlash surrounding it reveals about our society's feelings on Black female sexuality. We also talk about Vice President Joe Biden choosing Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate and we examine new research suggesting that White people are more likely to be racist when they identify as Christian.
In this episode, we discuss the death of Herman Cain, the delays facing the United States Postal Service, and the allegedly toxic workplace at Ellen DeGeneres’ talk show. We conclude with our review of Beyonce’s ‘Black Is King’ available on Disney+.
This week we took a break from our discussions about politics and pop culture to answer listener questions about our relationship—specifically our decision to wait until marriage to have sex. The second part of this series is available here: https://www.notyourblackfriendspodcast.com/episodes/episode-50-our-decision-to-wait-until-marriagepart-2.
In this episode, we discuss anti-Semitism in the Black community through the recent examples DeSean Jackson of the Philadelphia Eagles and Nick Cannon. We also honor the memories of Civil Rights leaders Rev. C.T. Vivian and Rep. John Lewis who both died on Friday, July 17, 2020.
In this episode, we talk about the defunding of the Seattle Police Department, the suspicious death of Amani Kildea, TMZ's rush to report Naya Rivera's death, the mailman who was convicted of election fraud, and Jada Pinkett Smith's 'Red Table Talk' interview about her entanglement with August Alsina.
In this episode, we discuss the fact that the United States has reached the unfortunate milestone of 3,000,000 COVID-19 cases. We also discuss the premiere of Hamilton on Disney+, President Trump’s new ads, Kanye West’s run for President, and Terry Crews’ constant misunderstanding of the Black Lives Matter Movement.
In this episode, Dr. Ana Ruediger, a naturopathic doctor based in the greater Los Angeles area, joins us to discuss the myriad of ways that racism affects the human body.
In this episode, we discuss the phasing out of Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben, and Rastus (the Cream of Wheat mascot). We also talk about the presence of far-right extremists at the recent protests and we suggest that our overall system of policing favors the bad and expels the good through talking about police officers who have been fired while trying to report their troubled coworkers. We conclude with a discussion of the Zoomers ruining Trump’s Tulsa rally as well as the untimely murder of Elijah McClain at the hands of the Aurora Police Department.
In this episode, we discuss the death of Rayshard Brooks, the recent trend of Black men being found hanging from trees in cases that investigators quickly ruled as suicide, and the performative gestures that politicians have made in response to the George Floyd protests.
In this episode, we discuss the recent protests inspired by the public lynching of George Floyd and explain distinction between defunding and abolishing the police. We also talk about Crossfit CEO Greg Glassman's exit following his racist tweet and recorded zoom call and we end with our usual update about our self-care efforts.
Following the public lynching of George Floyd, cities around the world went up in flames in protest against the police brutality that African Americans have faced for generations. In this episode, we discuss our feelings about these recent events.
In this episode, we discuss Joe Biden’s recent gaffe during his interview with Charlemagne tha God. We also discuss President Donald Trump’s ambivalence towards masks and his endorsement of hydroxychloroquine as a coronavirus cure, the lynching of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department, Amy Cooper’s use of white privilege to attempt to bring harm to George Cooper by making false claims to the NYPD, and more. We end with our usual update on self care, which shifted into a conversation about adjusting our social media use in light of the strange combination of social distancing and the gradual growth of our social media followings as a result of our work in ministry.
In this episode, therapist Kristina Lauderback joins us to discuss strategies for maintaining mental health during this era of social distancing.
In this episode, we talk about the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Sean Reed, and Breonna Taylor, and the angry mob that tried to force its way into the home of high school senior Daemon Shepard. We also talk about Nicholas Johnson, Princeton University’s first Black valedictorian, the Navajo Nation’s battle with COVID-19, and Michelle Obama’s ‘Becoming’ documentary on Netflix.
In this episode, we discuss the rise of the "Murder Hornets." We also talk about law enforcement in NYC and their differing responses to social distancing violations in Black and White neighborhoods, we discuss the story of 25 year-old Black jogger Ahmaud Arbery, and we give updates on our self care journey.
It has been over six weeks since we began social distancing. In this episode, we discuss the ways in which our society has been forever changed as a result of this pandemic. We also give an update on our self care efforts.
In this episode, we decided to take a break from our heavier topics to talk about three television shows that we have been watching in our spare time: #BlackAF, 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, and the final season of How to Get Away With Murder.
In this episode, we discuss Lifetime's The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, which is the story of sisters Jacky, Denise, Twinkie, Dorinda, and Karen as well as their mother Dr. Mattie Moss Clark.
As a result of this global pandemic, the CDC has recommended that people wear cloth masks when they are in public settings. In this episode, we discuss the way that racism could actually prevent people of color from feeling comfortable while wearing protective masks. We also talk about the importance of social media amid this era of social distancing, people abusing Instacart's tip system, and the Miami doctor who was handcuffed by police in front of his own house.
In this episode, we discuss the recent controversy about whether the term "Karen" is racist, sexist, classist, and misogynistic. We also talk about recent developments related to Tiger King on Netflix and discuss how we are handling social distancing.
In this special episode, we discuss Netflix docuseries Tiger King, which is the story of the feud between zoo owner Joe Exotic and animal sanctuary operator Carol Baskin.
In this episode, we discuss the conditions in our society that left the United States ripe for becoming the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this episode, we discuss the Netflix Limited Series Self Made about Madam C.J. Walker. We also talk about how recent discussions about COVID-19 reveal that some politicians like President Trump and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick of Texas are putting the recovery of the economy ahead of the health of our country's residents. We conclude with an update of our self care efforts.
In this episode, we talk about our experiences with social distancing as a result of COVID-19. We also discuss the Arizona, Illinois, and Florida primaries, the Andrew Gillum Scandal, Pastor Jamal Bryant's views on Christians burning sage, and the overreaction that took place over Target's commercial focusing on The Honey Pot. We conclude with a brief update on our self-care efforts.
During our previous episode, we meant to talk about Netflix's hit series Love Is Blind so we set out to record an additional segment and ended up with this mini-episode.
In this episode, we discuss Joe Biden's performance on Super Tuesday and during the March 10 primaries. We also discuss the spread of the coronavirus and its impact on our travel plans. We conclude with an update on our self care journeys with a brief discussion about how we're handling the coming jail time of one of Spencer's friends and where we are headed in ministry.
In this episode, we discuss Joe Biden's performance in the South Carolina primary, Michael Bloomberg's history of racist and sexist gaffes, Harvey Weinstein's conviction, Tom Steyer's twerk pandering, Snoop Dogg's Red Table Talk Interview, and the Black Molson Coors shooter. We also talk about Oprah's fall and shed some light on our recent self care efforts.
In this politically charged episode, we discuss Bernie Sanders' win during the Nevada caucuses, Michael Bloomberg's election strategy, and Joe Biden's expectation of support from the Black community during the upcoming South Carolina primary. We also discuss the California woman whose quest for a "freebirth" after 45 weeks of pregnancy led to her unborn baby's death and the racist accessories that led to two Fashion Institute of Technology administrators being placed on leave .
In this episode, we discuss Chaka Khan's National Anthem at the All Star Game, Zaya Wade coming out as transgender, the Harriet Tubman debit card, and the Mississippi state employees charged with embezzling funds from the state welfare office. We also discuss our recent self care efforts including our Valentine's Day weekend trip to Atlantic City.
In this episode, we discuss the backlash Gayle King faced as a result of her interview with Lisa Leslie on Kobe Bryant’s rape allegations. We also talk about the woman whose child died from the flu after she took advice from a Facebook group for anti-vaxxers and we introduce a new segment called “Job Openings” in which Tia profiles stories of people who lost their jobs based on their own extremely poor judgment starting with the story of Mark Tranquilli—a Pittsburgh area judge who called a Black female juror “Aunt Jemima” while expressing his disagreement with the jury’s verdict.
In this episode, we discuss whether we as a people conflate material prosperity with excellence using the ongoing dispute between Diddy and Mase as an example. We also talk about the founding of Black History Month, Kobe Bryant’s complicated legacy and the pressures facing Black male athletes, and what Jennifer Lopez and Shakira’s Super Bowl performance means for Latinx representation.
In our most political episode yet, we discuss the conversation that allegedly took place between Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren in 2018 in which Sen. Sanders reportedly expressed disbelief in a woman's ability to be President of the United States. We also talk about the intersection between faith and sexism that fuels much of the underestimation of the capabilities of women in today's society. While we were recording this episode, we found out about the helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others. Our reaction and the subsequent conversation about the importance of not taking life for granted make up the remainder of this episode.
On a cold and snowy weekend in Philadelphia, we spent our days inside binge-watching television. In this episode, we discuss some of what we watched--the Aaron Hernandez documentary on Netflix, Tyler Perry's new movie A Fall from Grace, and the Kamiyah Mobley story on Lifetime. We also talk a bit about the importance of processing trauma and give our thoughts on the association of Martin Luther King day with community service.
In this episode, we talk about Jillian Michaels' remarks about Lizzo, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping back from their role as Senior Royals, and Harvey Weinstein's trial. We also give an update on our self-care journey and more of our plans for this year.
In this episode, we talk about the integral role that failure plays in future success. We also discuss the difficulty we experience as African Americans in receiving quality healthcare and the controversy surrounding Jon B. ogling at underage Beyonce.
In this introspective episode commemorating the beginning of 2020, Spencer and Tia share their New Year's Resolutions.
In this episode, we talk about our experiences adjusting to Christmas in the suburbs. We also give our thoughts on Trump's impeachment, Kim Kardashian's suspiciously dark photo, and Jennifer Hudson's career.
In honor of Spencer's birthday, we talk about millennial nostalgia--specifically the current popularity of things commonly associated with millennial childhoods as seen through the success of Disney+ and Mario Kart Tour. We also talk about our recent experience officiating a wedding, Lizzo twerking at a Lakers game, and Oprah's documentary on Russell Simmons.
In this episode, Spencer talks about his experience being a part of the winning team in the AAA Division of the GRID6 Philly Competition and gives some background on his fitness journey. We also discuss the confusion surrounding Billy Dee Williams' gender identity and Drake's penchant for texting underage girls.
In this episode, we discuss our participation in Career Day at our alma mater Central High School in Philadelphia, PA. We also talk about our worst dates from our single years and our thoughts on TI's first episode of Red Table Talk.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of macaroni and cheese to Black Thanksgiving dinners. We also talk about viral grandmother and bodybuilder Willie Murphy, Robyn Crawford's many interviews about Whitney Houston, the proliferation of streaming services, and our issue with Fall finales.
In this episode, we discuss the movie Harriet with our special guest Stephanie Webb of Decipher City. We also talk about People Magazine giving John Legend the title of "Sexiest Man Alive" and the "Eating While Black" incident that recently occurred on BART.
In this episode, we discuss the return of the Popeye's Chicken Sandwich and the revelation that T.I. takes yearly trips to the gynecologist with his daughter. We also review Kanye West's gospel album "Jesus is King."
In this episode, we discuss Kirk Franklin's boycott of TBN and the Dove Awards, Kanye West's interview with Big Boy, and some of our experiences during Halloween this year.
This introductory episode discusses the connection between the viral "Pastor Wilson" meme and common views on the sexuality of male ministers in the African American church.