GunnShots Str8 From The Hip: Recent Episodes
GunnShots Str8 From The Hip
My thoughts and opinions in one podcast. The opinions expressed may not be popular with some, but they are mine, and the task is to get you, the listener, to think.
I haven't done an album review in a while, so here goes. I give you my thoughts on the 2nd releasae from supergroup Generation Radio. It's called "Take Two".
Generation Radio consists of Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flats, Jason Scheff, formerly of Chicago, Steve Ferrone , formerly with Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and session guitarists Tom Yankton and Chris Rodriguez.
I give you a song by song breakdown and analysis from a musician and producert standpoint.
All music copyrights beling to Generation Radio
This is a conversation I had with the students of the M.H.G. Prepatory Academy here in Louisville, Ky. We talk about music, media, fashion and how they all intertwine with my role as a radio personality and Program Director.
In this episode, I talk with one of my "Musical Babies", Hip - hop artist and military veteran, Rodney "Native" Barber about how he transitioned to public speaking and mental health advocacy.
In this episode, I'll introduce you to J. Alexander, aka "Divine". A man of many talents. Barber, paralegal, musician and producer. You'll learn how he used his position as a barber to help other barbers focus on the mental health of their customers and how he was instrumental in getting legislation passed that allows Mobile barbering in Kentucky.
In this episode, you'll meet Shannon Burton and her husband, Bart. We'll tell the story of how she started modeling late in life at 35 years of age and ended up as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model at 50. You'll also learn about how a commercial and being extras in the movie "Secretariat" brought her and Bart together... Sort of.
Shannon is an inspiration to women of all ages because of her dogged determination to chase a dream and make it a reality. Get to know Shannon here.
In this episode, once again, we take a look at the lives of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
My guest is Antonio Pantoja, an award winning photographer and filmaker who turned his love of horror into a thing of beauty to the tune of over 200 awards for his work.
His debut feature film, "One Must Fall" is must - see television and you can check him out at
www.antoniopantoja.com
This podcast introduces you to ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Meet Gary Loks, the best kept and worst kept secret in the cigar world. Learn how 1 man's vision became a reality and what being the best kept and worst kept secret in the cigar world means.
https://api.spreaker.com/v2/episodes/64286877/download.mp3
In this episode, you'll meet Amanda Mills, a homeless advocate who at one time in her life,weighed over 400 pounds. Find out how she dealt with motherhood, her work with the houseless, and domestic violence, all while fighting a battle to lose the weight that would've killed her if she wasn't successful. Amanda is one of the most inspirational people I've ever met, and you'll think so too.
In our ongoing search for ordinary people doing extraordinary things, I came across Mike Bucci, a banking excutive in Louisville, Kentucky, who's spirit of giving back goes all the way back to his days as a WWE Superstar.
This season, we're taking the podcast in a new direction. We'll put the spotlight on ordinary people just like you doing extraordinary things.
In this episode, I'll inroduce you to one of my oldest and dearest friends. Dave Moody, bassist and vocalist of the tribute band, "Hairball" .
We'll talk about his humble beginnings, addiction, marriage and life on the road.
In this episode, we explore some little known baseball history. Did you know that Kentucky is home to the 1st ever integrated kids' baseball team in the Commonwealth? My guest is Ron Schmidt, the Executive Producer of an upcoming feature film that tells the story. It's called "This Field Looks Green To Me".
After a bit of a hiatus, we are back and in this episode, we'll talk about transracial adoptions and I'll introduce you to Brandy David, an Italian immigrant who was adopted at the age of 5 by an African - American family.
You'll hear her story and learn a little more about transracial adoptions. You can also see the video version of this episode on my You Tube channel.
Attorney General Merrick Garland came to Louisville to deliver the findings of a 2 year investigation of the Louisville Metro Police Department and Metro Government after the death of Breonna Taylor.
In this episode, we take a look at some of the findings and the recommendations spelled out in the Consent Decree. I also have a conversation with Louisville Mayor , Craig Greenberg and LMPD Chief Jaqueline Gwinn - Villaroel about the impact the investigation and findings will have on the city and the police department.
You can now see the video version of the podcast at "GunnShots: The Video Clips"
Make sure you check us out on "Live In Louisville" on 104.7 WLOU Radio. We stream live at www.wloufm.com.
In this episode, in light of the increased call for Black people to arm themselves after the racist domestic terrorist attack in Buffalo, New York, I have a conversation with one of the few African - American firearms instructors in Louisville.
We discuss some of the myths and misconceptions about guns in the Black community and provide information on how you can begin training for your safety and that of your family.
A family reunion of sorts. Christopher "Truth B. Told" Owens celebrates 20 years as a professional spoken word artist with the release of his new retrospective project, "REWIND: Words, Poems & Live Shows".
We'll take a look back at his life, career and what he's been up. You'll also learn about our connection as "family".
This is a conversation with the R&B group, "Troop", who made it big with hits like "Mamacita", "Spread My Wings" and "All I Do Is Think Of You" back in the late 80's. I had them on my radio show (www.wloufm.com) and it was 1st time we'd seen each other in over 30 years.
My first episode back in about 6 months! In light of the Will Smith, Chris Rock incident at the Oscars, I decided that it was important for my radio morning show to STOP the music and START the conversation about mental health in the Black Community.
What you'll hear is the actual audio from that broadcast from Wednesday, April 20th on WLOU - FM (www.wloufm.com) My guests are Mrs. Cassandra Gray and her husband, Dr. Kilen Gray of Creative Spirits Behavioral Services.
We wanted to break down the myths and misconceptions about Black Mental Health and provide resources for those that need them.
As your kids go back to school, America is going backwards when it comes to defeating the Coronavirus and it's due to a group of people I call "CovIDIOTS" that refuse to be vaccinated. In this episode, we'll break down the harm they're causing and we'll share tips on how to deal with them.
In this episode, I talk about Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Biles and her decision to opt out of competition for mental health reasons.
I'll also deal with the trauma being suffered by Capitol Police Officers as they testify in the investigation of the January 6th domestic terrorist attack.
There's a movement that's been around for awhile that's just starting to get mainstream attention. It's called "MGTOW". Men Going Their Own Way. Men are opting out of relationships and women don't like it. Learn about what this is about and why it came to be in the first place.
In this episode, I take a look at the importance of more Black kids and Kids of Color getting involved with STEM. (Science Technology Engineering & Medicine). You'll also meet G.J. Dennis, a 13 year old who's heavily involved with STEM and is about to launch his own computer building & repair business.
In this episode, I look at the impact of Tik Tok and how it helps educate people on Critical Race Theory, politics and life in general
In this episode, we examine the hypocritical nature od the recently passed Juneteenth Federal Holiday. We also take a look at the ongoing campaign to discredit Critical Race Theory and Congress's failure to pass any meaningful legislation that would benefit the lives of Black People.
In this episode, we'll take a look at the "Blacklash" some Whites are starting to feel because of their refusal to deal with this country's ongoing racism. You'll also hear from a former White Supremacist who's now working to heal the racial wounds he caused.
June is Black Month Music and this is a first of a series of episodes putting the spotlight on some of the biggest artists in the genre. This week, we pay tribute to Earth Wind & Fire and you'll hear a conversation I had with Maurice White before he passed away.
In this episode, we'll take a look at Critical Race Theory, Black History and why portions of White Americans are so afraid of it. You also learn the truth about one of the biggest lies being taught in school.
Clarence Avant is one of the most influential people in all of entertainment. Music, sports and media in general. He is also someone I'm honored to have had as a mentor in radio. We met back in the early 90's when I worked in Los Angeles and the lessons he taught me back then are things I carry on to this very day.
In this episode, you'll hear from Quincy Jones, Jamie Foxx, L.A. Reid and several of the industry's biggest heavy hitters. You'll also hear from the man himself.
I'm very excited to see Mr. Avant inducted into this year's Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Class and this episode is my way of saying "thank you" for everything he's done for me.
In observance of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we'll take a look at the ongoing mental health challenges faced by Black people in the face of systemic racism and a stigma within the Black Community when it comes to seeking help.
Here's my take on Marvel Studios "Falcon & The Winter Soldier" and the way the show deals with issues of race.
This episode takes a look at the Derek Chauvin conviction and features the young lady that shot the video of George Floyd's murder, Darnella Frazier. It also features my conversation with one of my oldest friends, Minnesota State Senator, John Hoffman, who actually knew George.
In This episode, we'll take a look at 5 African - American guitarists who don't get the recognition they deserve for their contributions to an artform we created in the first place; Rock N' Roll
My guest this week is Dr. Antonio Webb, an orthopedic spine surgeon based in San Antonio, Texas and one of the less than 1% of Black doctors in the field.
We'll discuss the ongoing rollout of the coronavirus vaccine and efforts to combat the mistrust in the Black community when it comes to taking it.
You can learn more about Dr. Webb on his website, www.antionwebbmd.com and check out his documentary, "Overcoming The Odds" at www.oveercopmingtheoddsmovie.com
Here are highlights from a panel discussion I was part of earlier this week. We tackle the ongoing controversy between "The Talk's" Sheryl Underwood and former host, Sharon Osborne (As of this episode, she's been fired by CBS) We also discuss ways to talk about racism through teachable moments. You can see the broadcast in its entirety at https://youtu.be/JG-L2Xe36Gc
In this episode, you'll hear from authors Robin D'Angelo (White Fragility - Why It's So Hard For Whites To Talk About Racism), Reni Eddo - Lodge (Why I'm No Longer Talking To White People About Race) and Emmanuel Acho (Uncomfortable Conversations With A Black Man). You'll also learn why more Black people are no longer talking to White people about racism.
This is the conclusion of my Afro -futuristic sci-fi story, "The Baraagua". The confrontation begins as all is revealed. How will "The Administration" deal with the fallout and we'll talk about the national push to extend Black History Month through what's being called "Melanin March" and why?
Episode 78 of my podcast, GunnShots Street From The Hip - "The Awakening" (part 2)
An Afro - Futuristic short story I wrote that tells the tale of a brilliant young geneticist who, with the help of some of the most brilliant minds in Africa, the young children of the Motherland, develops a plan to free Black people in America from Jim Crow 2.0. The story is set in a dystopian future where "The Administration" has brought back slavery and much worse.
The Doctor and his team hatch a plan to deliver freedom with help from the source of all life itself. "Lucy".
This episode begins a multipart series as I present an Afro - Futuristic Sci - Fi story I wrote a few years ago. I was inspired to finally share it after getting the results from an ancestral DNA test. My roots run deeper in the continent of Africa than I even realized. Ironically, this story is a journey of self - discovery and the biological connection our protagonist has with the rest of the world.. Copyright 2017 - 2021. Mark Gunn Media Inc.
In this episode, in light of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez sharing her story of the January 6th Domestic Terrorist attack on the US Capitol, we take a look at the potential mental health issues that she and other victims will have to deal with and we'll also look at America's longest untreated mental health issue, Post Traumatic Slavery Syndrome.
For all of the history Black people have made as of late, for every two steps forward, we take four steps back.
Here's my take on this week's history making inauguration and the challenges being faced by the new Biden/Harris Administration.
This is a follow up to last week's domestic terrorist attack. An update on arrests and the consequences of a country failing to heed the warnings Black America has been giving it for years!
Democrats gain control of the Senate. Congress goes through its tradition of certifying the Electoral College votes and Donald Trump continues his delusion of having not lost the election. Just when you think America is getting back to some sense of normal human decency, Trump supporters have to commit an act of domestic terrorism and treason.
In this episode, we'll take a look at some of the toys we got for Christmas way back in the day. Would you believe that some of them are still around? What was your favorite toy growing up? Send your reply to mark@markgunnmedia.com. We'll share your responses on the next episode.
In this episode, we'll take a look at some of my all time favorite Christmas movies along with a few honorable mentions. A few of these I've watched every year since I was a child.
In this episode, we'll take a look at the fast moving developments' relating to the distribution of the Covid - 19 vaccine. We'll also take a look at racism in America's healthcare system and the well founded and well documented reasons Blacks don't trust it or the vaccine.
To put things into historical context, you'll hear from some of the survivors of the Tuskegee Experiments and the Associated Press reporter who exposed it and the United States Government 40 years after the experiment began.
On this special episode, we take a look at the more humorous side of Thanksgiving through the eyes of some of your favorite comedians. Nightmare relatives, bad food, the whole nine yards. Fun for the entire family!
In this episode, I'll give you an update as to where the country stands with the coronavirus, information about 2 new vaccines that could be released next month and I'll take a look at an aspect of Covid - 19 that's not talked about enough. The mental health of our first responders. You'll hear some of their stories in their own words.
Here's a final look at Election 2020. How it happened, the stunts the Trump Administration is trying to pull as far as the results, what went wrong for the Democrats, the problem they have with Black men, and a clear sign that at least 70 million White Americans need to own up to their racism.
In this episode, I'll attempt to break down the election results as they stand of this this recording. I'll also look at the problems the Democrats will continue to have even in a Biden/Harris Administration. Why did Donald Trump get 30% of the Black Male vote? Why does White America continue to vote against its own self interests?
In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about early voting, absentee ballots, some of the voter suppression tactics being used by the GOP and I take a look at how Hip - Hop has affected voter turnout in past elections.
I also feature some Edutainment from an artist named Yellow Pain and a rap battle of sorts about this election.
My tribute to one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Eddie Van Halen. In this episode, you'll hear from Sammy Hagar, Quincy Jones, Toto's Steve Lukather.
You'll hear the story of how Eddie got involved in the recording of Micheal Jackson's "Beat It" and how the song almost didn't make it to "Thriller" because of Eddie.
You'll also hear the Van Halen story in Eddie's own words.
In this episode, we take a look back at this week's Presidential Debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump with reaction late night TV hosts Trevor Noah, Steven Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, commentator Roland Martin, Biden's running mate, Senator Kamala Harris and a conversation with Senator Cory Booker.
We're also looking for your feedback on our website. www.markgunnmedia.com/gunnshots.
Check out past episodes by subscribing to our You Tube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
On this episode of "GunnShots Str8 From The Hip", as my city of Louisville deals with the aftermath of Attorney General, Daniel Cameron's decision regarding the Breonna Taylor murder, it occurs to me that America simply doesn't learn from its mistakes when it comes to this issue of race. As a means of continuing education, I'll take you back 28 years to the Rodney King Uprising. I lived in Los Angeles at the time, so what you'll hear is all factual and you'll hear a conversation from 22 years ago with a man I now have the honor of calling a friend, KRS - One. In it, you'll realize that the same challenges we talked about back then are the same ones we're facing today. Meantime, you can check out past episodes by subscribing to my You Tube Channel or wherever you get your podcasts. You Tube Link - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
As a radio Morning Show Personality, you develop a very special relationship with the people on your team. In the industry, we liken it to being married. I've had 3 "Morning Show Wives" throughout my career. The last one being Kymberlye Stepp Curd (aka "Kim Zahn). In this very special tribute episode, I'll share the things that made her so special as an air talent and as a woman. We'll also give you a look at the inner workings of the radio industry with author and radio personality, Quincy McCoy and his book, "No Static. A Programmer's Guide To Creative Radio".
www.markgunnmedia.com/gunnshots
For past episodes, subscribe to our You Tube Channel. https://youtu.be/CB8ZfaHNGus
ONLINE NOW On the next episode of "GunnShots Str8 From The Hip", it's the "Mark Gunn Media Back To School Special. The Digital Divide & You". In this episode, I talk about your relationship with your Internet Service Provider and how you can change it for the better and I'll lay out some strategies that will help you deal with our new normal; an internet based work and school life. Online now at www.markgunnmedia.com/gunnshots For past episodes, subscribe to my You Tube channel at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
In this episode, I'll explore the reasons why this question has never been answered in over 400 years. You'll also hear a spoken word piece from Truth B. Told. You can find out more about him at www.truthbtold.net, on Instagram @truthbtold and on Twitter @truthbtoldpoet.
You can check out this and past episodes by going here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
As the fight for freedom, justice & equality continues across the country, I thought it was time to address one of the most divisive issues within the Black Community. In this episode, I'll break down the difference between Black Conservatives, Black Trump Supporters and a group of Black people I call "OpporCOONists". Please subscribe and leave a review. We always welcome feedback. You can check out this and past episodes by going here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
In the era of Black Lives Matter, Black people are repeating some of the same mistakes of the past and this episode is our "Sunday Come To Jesus" meeting, featuring new music from Louisville artist, Divine C.U.T.S. - "I'm Still Here (We Will Win)" Written by J. Alexander, Rev. Keith Meriwether Jr. and Elvis Anderson. from the EP "Thoughts Out Loud". 2020 sonaBLAST! Records. (*I do have the artist's permission to feature this music)
In this episode, we'll take a look at the history of Karens in America and why they're so dangerous to the lives of Black people and People Of Color. We'll also break down what makes a Karen in the first place.
In this episode, I sit in as a guest host on the local radio show, "Community Connections", which can be heard every Saturday at 6:30 pm Eastern on 104.7 FM, WLOU here in Louisville. Hosts Ameerah Palacios, Bruce Ray & I talk about the most recent Covid 19 cases here in Kentucky, how Black people can gain ground in the Digital Divide and the passing of Civil Rights icon, The Honorable Georgia State Representative, John Lewis.
In this episode, I have a conversation with Alison Joyce Rogers, a Black business owner in the UK to get her perspective regarding the ongoing global protests against systemic racism and police brutality. We'll discuss Black life in England and how it compares to the Black experience in America. You can get more information about her business as www.toothbuckle.com.
In light of the ongoing protests against racism going on all over the world, more White people are asking how they can be a part of the solution and no longer part of the problem. In this episode, I talk with Lamont Collins, the owner and curator of the Roots 101: African American Museum in Louisville, Kentucky about where White people need to start. EDUCATION!
Look for a special group of photos and videos associated with this podcast and for past episodes, log onto https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
This is my conversation about the Black Men's Black Lives Matter march I was a part of earlier in the day and some of the solutions some of us are coming up with regarding police reform.
In light of the murders of Ahmaud Avery of Georgia and Breonna Taylor of Louisville, I've seen lots of Whites speak out in protest on social media. Cool, but it's not enough. This is an encore episode in which I ask why don't more Whites speak out against racism and get answers from other White people.
This week, I take a look at how racial disparities in law enforcement and the health care system have a n adverse effect on Black & Brown people as it relates to Covid -19. You'll hear from Dr. Armen Henderson, Internal Medicine Physician & Asst Professor Of Medicine University Of Miami, who was arrested for "Volunteering While Black", Dr. Patrice Harris, President Of The American Medical Association and Dr. Uche' Blackstock, an Emergency Care Physician and Founder of Advancing Medical Equity. All 3 Black doctors on the front line of the Covid - 19 pandemic.
As a producer and musician, I really miss the creative energy of being in a recording studio. I've always found peace in creative chaos. There's nothing like working with a group of really talented players to bring an artist's vision to life.
Speaking of which, you'll hear the story of how Michael Jackson's "Beat It" almost didn't make it to "Thriller", how a 5 year old little girl was the inspiration for "Human Nature" and the lesson Prince taught Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis about limitations and possibilities.
Also, who was the artist I had to virtually kick out of the studio and how became a part of one of the most important songs in my life.
I'm going to talk about some recording sessions that I wished I could've been a part of and share some music by a rock group that I produced several years ago. I'm feeling nostalgic and missing quite a few people these days.
Featured Music includes - "Human Nature" Written By Steve Porcaro, "Naked In The Garden Of Allah" Written By Robert Lamm, "This Is How We Do It" Written By Matthew Wallace, "Not To Be A Fool" Written By Matthew Wallace and "The Gunn Theme" Written By Mark Gunn & Mint Condition.
Given Trump's history of lies and his poor handling of the Covid - 19 pandemic, I'm taking a look at how the media is partly responsible for the attacks it gets and how it strikes a balance between the lies and actual real information.
In this episode, I take a look at one of the unintended consequences of fighting the Covid - 19 Virus. The almost exponential increase in internet usage and family members who could get lost in the shuffle. I also take a look at how the Federal Government's response compared to that of individual states. Who's doing the better job?
What do Prince, Taylor Swift, TLC, The Rolling Stones & Megan The Stallion all have in common? In this episode, we'll take a look at the history of really bad record deals and how they effected the artists involved. If you're an artist starting out and want to get into the music business, we'll tell you how you can get the information you need for less than $5.00!
In this episode, we take a look at what went down this past Super Tuesday. What went right? What went wrong and what the candidates have to do to win going forward. We'll also play "What If" as I kick around a few scenarios for the eventual nominee and who his potential running mates could be. For past episodes, go to https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc62tXAv8yiDoWyZrhU1aemBjlAvt1zOM
With Democrat Bernie Sanders as the front runner for the presidential nomination, others in the party have gone into panic mode. We examine why this episode and as we get ready for Super Tuesday, you'll hear from some Black Voters in South Carolina ahead of next week's primary there.
In honor of Black History Month, I decided to dig into the Mark Gunn Media Inc. archives to bring you a conversation I had with the late, great Charlie Murphy.
We talk about life, comedy, working with his brother Eddie and Dave Chappelle. We also talk about beer! Check it out. All comments welcomed.
When it comes to the Black vote, Democrats haven't lived up to their end of the bargain. In this episode, I discuss the problematic relationship and why, even though we're not going to the GOP, more and more Blacks are leaving the Democrats.
iHeart Media began firing hundreds of its employees over the last week in what some are calling a "bloodbath". It was in an effort to cut costs and invest more into technology like Artificial Intelligence. As a former radio personality and Program Director, I discuss the effect that this move and deregulation have on not only those that lost jobs, but on you as radio listeners.
In this episode, we take a look at the relationship between racism and mental health and how constant exposure to it can have a detrimental effect, especially as it relates to Black men. I also share a special poem written by David Anthony Butler.