Madness & Reality Radio: Recent Episodes

Madness And Reality Radio

Madness & Reality Radio is the home of straight talk on progressive politics, social justice, pop culture, and everything that intersects, with a dose of reality .

View Details

We are back with a pre-election broadcast talking about what else - the election voting and politics.

View Details

In this episode,  we will be talking about Black Lives Matter, Economic Boycotts, and the importance of civic engagement for marginalized groups of people. 

OUr guests this evening are: 

Anson Asaka -  Attorney,  -  writes at his blog  New Possibilities 

Anoah J. Changa -  Attorney - writes at her blog: Momma  Justice 

Ellen Gee - host of online radio show  Evolution of Perspective

View Details

This episode we will be talking about the movie the actual characters behind the movie and sosme of the issues that have come forth as the movie has been releaseed to theatres.

View Details

. Given the eventts in the news of late, tonight we are going to explore white supremacy and blackness. We will be chopping it up in the first hour with our special guest Dixon D. White best known for his viral video on anti racism asking white people to be accouontable and responsible for racism. In the second half we will be chopping it up with Joshua Lazard Edior, writer and creator of the Uppity Negro Network and we will discuss what is blackness.

View Details

Tonight I'm going live on air at 9PM EST on Madness & Reality Radio to discuss the discourse in reaction to the Charleston Shooting. We're going to talk about the debate over the removal of the Confederate Flag from South Carolina state house grounds. As well as whether the relatives decision to forgive Dylann Roof is problematic. We also will be discussing  whether President Obama's use of the word "nigger" as he did in a podcast is problematic.

View Details

Tonight we are BACK and bringing a news mashup to you on the current topics in the news. We will be discussing Racism in this country and in particular, the McKinney Pool incident,  Ms. Dolezal and the Charleston Massacre. Come through call in and express your thoughts on any or all of these topics.

View Details

In this episode we discuss revelations regarding Al Sharpton at  one time being an informant for the FBI. According to TMZ Sharpton was instrumental in assisting law enforcement in bringing down the Genovese crime family. Sharpton has not denied his involvement however, his version of the events conflicts with other reports which include and are not limited to his being involved in an alleged cocaine deal, This revelation has sparked heated debate within the black community and has led many to defend Sharpton's version of  the events. Joining us for tonight's discussion will be  noted journalist and blogger Yvette Carnell of  http://www.breaking brown.com  and of http://www.yourblackworld.com 

In our activist spotlight tonight, we will be  speaking  with Ms. Honey Dozier and Bonifacio Aleman,  of Kentucky Jobs for Justice. We will be speaking with them about the current push to give ex-felons the opportunity for gainful employment in the city of Louisville, KY with the Ban the Box Movement.

View Details

On a fateful day back in October of 2013 a woman driving with her child was shot and killed by police during a brief "chase" through the streets of Washington, D.C. The case held the attention of many at the time as via technology we were actually able to see most of the incident live. Many watched in horror as the car navigated through the streets of this nation's capital was fired upon and Ms. Carey was eventually shot and killed in a hail of gunfire by local law enforcement. Heartbreakingly her child was found to be a passenger in the car but was unharmed physically. The story seemingly faded and had not been followed up by main stream media outlets - however we did not forget Miriam Carey and we are pleased to have the attorney representing the family Eric Sanders on tonight's show to discuss the facts of this case.

View Details

Tonight's episode is going to wrap up the March Madness 2014  with a discussion on whether college players should be paid or not. We have a few special guests joining us this evening: Headache - Streetball Legend, Al Butler  aka @AlbDamn - Philadelphia Radio personality, Richard Montgomery - College educator and Charles D. Ellison Columnist/writer for he Root and Uptown Magazine   will be stopping by to discuss the hot topic - should college players be paid ?  Be sure and call in with your take on this topic !

View Details

In this episode we speak with Pastor Victor White Sr. and his attorney Carol Powell-Lexing about the investigation into the mysterious death of Victor White III in police custody. After an arrest for marijuana possession by Iberia Parish, Louisiana sheriff deputies, Victor White III allegedly shot himself in the back while handcuffed as he sat in the backseat of the police car.

There is an ongoing investigation by the Louisiana State Police. However, because of suspicions of police misconduct, the relatives of Victor White III are raising funds in hopes of securing an independent autopsy report. Join us as we shed some much-needed light on this case.

READ STORY HERE

DONATE TO THE AUTOPSY FUND

View Details

Ever since the death of Trayvon Martin, and the subsequent not guilty verdict in the George Zimmerman, Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law has come under fire. Many are advocating for its repeal in the state of Florida. The general consensus among advocates of repeal is that the law's application is racially biased; and, that it is essentially a license to kill..As you can imagine, the debate has been drawn along political lines, and has forced many to take sides. The question, however, is whether we are properly informed .

On the eve of a major protest of Florida's controversial "Stand Your Ground" self-defense law, we explore the legislation, and how it has been misinterpreted largely by the media. Joining us in this discussion is Andrew F. Branca, an attorney who's specialty is self-defense law. He is also the author of, The Law of Self Defense.

View Details

Well the verdict as you know already is in. There have been so many takes and so much said on this trial by the media and other's with vested interests in saying certain things and spinning things in a particular way. Tonight we will speak with some attorneys on the legal aspects of the trial and the verdict and gain some perspective from those involved in the judicial system.Special guests tonight is the well known blogger Field Negro  and  Chicago attorney, Charles Beals.  We will be discussing the trial itself the verdict and as always will be taking your calls and letting you voice your opinions and concerns about the case, the legal system in this country. Tell your friends and pass the link and number along and  be sure and call in. This is not an episode you will want to miss.

View Details

In this episode we discuss the following:

Super Bowl Wrap Up; Richard Sherman Controversy; Coca Cola Super Bowl Commercial Controversy;George Zimmerman vs. DMX Celebrity Boxing Match; Unemployment Insurance Extension, and moree.

View Details

In this episode of we discuss a few high-profile cases of police brutality involving African-American citizens. We also interview the mother of a 17-year-old who in an encounter with a police officer a few weeks ago, was left with a fractured spine. These often unreported incidents are quite common to communities of color; however, police brutality is a problem that crosses all racial lines. In this episode, it's our hope to engage, educate, and inform listeners of this serious ongoing issue. New Mexico State Police shoot at a minivan full of kidsA cyclist in San Fransisco is brutally beaten for riding on the sidewalkA 14-year-old boy in Philadelphia has a taser used on his face and nose broken. Joining us as a special guest is Anson Asaka, NAACP Associate General Counsel, and blogger at New Possibilities. Our hope is to educate listeners of their rights when encountering police officvers.

View Details

This week's episode of Madness & Reality Radio:

Sarah Palin compares the national debt to slavery; President Barack Obama changes rules of the Affordable Care Act allowing consumers to keep their "junk" health insurance policies; and we speak about the latest development in the ongoing effort for justice for Renisha McBride, the 19-year-old African-American woman shot and killed by a Detroit homeowner while allegedly seeking help after a car wreck.

View Details

This week's episode: 

First off: We speak to biologist and science blogger, Danielle N. Lee, who was called an "urban whore," by the editor of Biology-online.org after she turned down an email request to guest-blog for free. Danielle, a zoologist at Oklahoma State University (OKU) maintains the blog called "The Urban Scientist" on the Scientific American website. 

Next up: We go international! In this segment we speak with Canadian blogger, Telisha Ng, the publisher of the website Goddess Intellect. We'll discuss this weeks controversy involving Toronto's mayor, Rob Ford, and his crack smoking scandal. 

Finally: We speak to "The Janitor" -- our resident legal expert -- of the blog The Urban Politico about the latest political news in the wake of this week's elections. We'll also take a close look at CNN's Don Lemon, and his defense and partial endorsement of the NYPD's stop-and-frisk policy.

View Details

One of our special guests tonight is well known blogger, writer  and tv personality Danielle Belton. Her critically acclaimed blog The Black Snob is well known and she is also Editor-at Large for Clutch Magazine online and was the head writer for BET's Don't Sleep w/ T.J. Holmes. In light of recent events involving Aaron Alexis, Miriam Carey, and Josh Marks. we will be discussing mental health and the black community. Most importantly the stigma associated with mental health issues from a cultural and racial perspective.

View Details

Tonight we will be discussing the current news relative to the Affordable Care Act going into effect on Oct 1, the subsequent Government shutdown and today;s latest event the gunfire and car chase   on Capitol HIll which resulted in the death of the driver a 34 year old woman.

View Details

Tonight we will be talking about gun violence in the news as we discuss the latest in the Washington DC Navy Yard shooting and the alleged perpetrator Aarron Alexis as well as the shooting   this past weekend of an unarmed man  Jonathan Ferrel in Charlotte North Carolina who was gunned down after being in a  car accident and seeking help. We will also be following up with the IRP6 and discussing latest events in that case.

View Details

The IRP6 case consists of 6 defendents, 5 black one white: Gary Walker, David Banks, Clinton Stewart, Kendrick Barnes, Demetrius Harper and David Zirpolo. This case in a nutshell, is a corporate debt collection case that got criminalized by an overzealous FBI agent - John Smith and Assistant US Attorney Matthew Kirsch, Denver CO. The details surroundinng this case from its inception, prosecution and ultimate conviction and sentancing sheds a light into the over-criminalization and corrupt judicial process that can and DOES occur in our judicial system. Tonight's show will feature as special guests: Samuel Thurman - President of A Just Cause Ethel Lopez Vice President of A Just Cause

Cliff Stewart - brothe

View Details

In this episode we discuss the following: Russell Simmons' "beef" with CNN's Don Lemon. As well as the backlash to the releaseof Simmons' Harriet Tubman "Sex Tape". In particular, we'll explore the question of whether Simmons went too far i his attempt at humor.

View Details

Discussing the influence of Hip Hop and the resurgance that is integrated with the youth movement as evidenced by the recent Trayvon Martin case.  Our special guest tonight will be Jasiri X fresh off his performance at the UN and meeeting with Harry Belafonte.  Do Hip Hop artists bear any responibility for the state of youth culture or to try to be more socially active on issues related to their communities Is a mere presence at an event enough or should there be on the ground work put in  chime in and let us know what you think tonight

View Details

In this episode we discuss President Barack Obama's remarks in response to the backlash from George Zimmerman not guilty verdict. We'll discuss racial profiling and the stand your ground laws. And most importantly, we'll attempt to answer the question: Where do we go from here, and how can gov't help?

View Details

Trayvon Martin is dead, and George Zimmerman is now a free man according to a jury of his peers in the state of Florida. 

So, what now? Is this yet another notch in the belt that is America's racial history? Will this be yet another one of those incidents like the many that came before that we will soon forget? Most importantly, was the not guilty verdict in this case a blemish on our new-found post-racial society? Will we allow Trayvon Martin to be yet another statistic? Most importantly, if anything, what can we learn from this?

Join us in yet another

View Details

For those of us interested in freedom, justice, and equality, the past week has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride. With landmark Supreme Court decisions handed down on Affirmative Action, the Voting Rights Act, and Marriage Equality

Add to said exhaustion the fascination that has been the first week of testimony in the George Zimmerman murder trial, and what we've seen this week has been nothing short of a firestorm that would make a certain pointy-horned person jealous.

Joining us tonight to break it all down are several leading voices from the blogospherei Mr. Gates aka Dark Hater, the host of the ever popular Haterazzi Radio Show,  Jay Anderson the guiding force behind AverageBro, and Yesha Callahan Editor and writer at Clutch Magazine online

Tonight on

View Details

In this episode we reset our previous conversation on the Paula Deen discrimination lawsuit. We'll take a look at the recent developments, her series of apologies, and the subsequent backlash and reaction to her being dropped by Food Network. Question: Were they wrong to drop her?

Also, on the heels os the George Zimmerman trial for the death of Trayvon Martin. We'll also discuss our feelings on the trial and the potential outcome. Central to the discussion would be the mostly white all-female jury and its impact.

View Details

We get raw and uncut as we break it down:   In this episode we discuss Immigration Reform, Edward Snowden and NSA Spying, and the controversey over a lawsuit alledging racist remarks by celebrity chef, Paula Deen.   Also, in this week's Ratchet Report we ask:   Did a stripper really have a miscarriiage on stage?

View Details

Tonight we will be continuing pur discussion about social activism and the online community and will be talking with business leaders and journalists that are actively involved about their motivations and initiatives. We will be chopping it up as usual on current news topics including the President's speech at Morehouse College as well as the subsequent backlash within the community

View Details

Tonight we will be talking about social activism and the online community and will be talking with business leaders and journalists that are actively involved  about their motivations and initiatives.  We will be chopping it up as usual on current news topics including the President's speech at Moorehouse as well as the subsequent backlash  within the community.

View Details

It’s been a hectic week in the news cycle. So as always, and as only we can do it, Madness & Reality Radio will unapologetically break down the issues with our in-your-face style and candor.   In tonight’s episode:   Jason Collins - We’ll take a look at the historic nature of Collins’ recent announcement via his Sports Illustrated article, of being a 34-year-old professional athlete who is black and gay. So what’s the big deal? Should this be a big deal? More importantly, what does his “coming out” mean to members of the LGBT community and society at large?   Antoine Dodson - Antoine recently announced that he is no longer gay. According to him he is now a straight man because he recently started reading the Bible, and he’s now “mature.” So, are you buying this? Is it at all possible for anyone to become ex-gay?        We’ll also take a look at the hottest story of the week that is the recent discovery of a kidnapped Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight by Charles Ramsey in Cleveland, Ohio. In particular, we’ll take a look at and discuss “certain sexual lifestyles” and the things people do behind closed doors. Heck, for all you know some of these people are your next door neighbors.   So, do join us tonight for yet another hot discussion on Madness & Reality Radio. Be sure to call in and share your thoughts, comments, and concerns at (347) 324-5232; and remember, we like it raw.

View Details

In this episode we take a look at the Boston Marathon bombing.In particular, we discuss the subsequent reactions to the event by the usual suspects: Racist in America who for political expediency use a certain religion to elevate "whiteness". Terrorism as defined by the Merriam Webster Dictionary : the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion. The use of violent acts to frighten people in an area as a way of trying to achieve a political goal.

View Details

In this episode we discuss the new and controversial song, Accidental Racist, by Country music star Brad Paisley. Since its release the dong has sparked much controversy; and its lyrics and, message, and intent has been questioned by many. No strangers to controversy, we break it down on everything that's wrong with the song, its message, and the subsequent discussion as it relates to slavery and racism in America. Joining us will be community activist, educator, and rapper NYOIL, to discuss his "Accidental Racist" diss track, "What The Hell". Also joining us is Professor Anthea Butler of the University of Pennsylvania to give some historical context to the discussion.On tonight's show, we'll pull no punches like always.

View Details

In this episode I interview political activist and rapper Jasiri X on his new album. We'll discuss the state of Hip Hop Culture and how it impacts or youth. In particular, we'll discuss Rick Ross' controversial date rape lyric from the song "U.N.E.O. (You Ain't Even Know)". On the political tip, we'll look at the current debate on marriage equality. Joining me will be two openly gay men (one being a researcher for the Applied Research Center, and the other an openly gay Chicago public school teacher) as I take a look into the LGBTQ community. Specifically, we'll look at the intersection of race, religion, and popular culture.

View Details

In this episode we discuss the often controversial and polarizing subject that is race in America. In particular, we'll discuss Philadelphia Magazine's March 2013 cover story, "Being White In Philly". Joining the discussion is Philly morning radio personality, Aolbert Butler, of 900AM WURD. Our goal is to take a look at and discuss the right and wrong way to have a conversation on race relations  in today's post-racial society. So, are we a nation of cowards afraid to discuss race?

View Details

In this episode we discuss the Steubenville, Ohio rape case; rape in the military; and the culture of rape in today's society. We'll discuss possible solutions, and how we all play a part in contributing to said culture; and what we can all do as individuals to affect change. In particular, we'll explore the idea that only men can prevent rape; and what responsibility (if any) women bear in rape prevention.

View Details

In this episode we discuss the Obama Administration's escalation of the CIA Drone Program. We'll look at both sides of the argument, including, Rand Paul's filibuster of John Brennan's confirmation hearing. So, should the US Gov't be allowed to kill US citizens at home or abroad under the guise of the War On Terror? Better yet: do drones make us safer? Should the president of the United States have the power to kill U.S. citizens without the gurantee of due process per the Constitution? Can you answer?

We'll also discuss the hot news stories of the day, as well as go in on the latest "ratchetness" of the week. So join us as we chop it up and lay it all on the table as we do each week on Madness & Reality Radio at 9PM(EST) on Blog Talk Radio. Listen live online, or by phone at (347) 324-5432. Yes, come join us as we get MAD REAL!

View Details

In this episode of Madness & Reality Radio we continue our conversation on how negative stereotypes of black women are being reinforced and perpetuated. This week, however, we shift focus to the role MEN play in the reinforcement of said stereotypes. In particular, we'll look at how black male privilege and rigid patriarchal definitions of "manhood" negatively impact women, and the black community.

In this episode we welcome Yalanda Lattimore creator of the award winning DryerGBuzz.com; and, also Yesha Callahan editor of Clutch Magazine, and writer for BET's "Don't Sleep, With T.J. Holmes" to the discussion.

View Details

In this episode we discuss President Obama's recent speech on gun violence in Chicago. Specifically, we explore Obama's promotion of marriage as a solution to building better communities of color. We take a look at the current debate sparked by his proposal, as we attempt to answer the question: Can we honestly say that marriage, or the fact that children are being raised in single-parent homes are essentially the problem? What role does the perceived problem of absentee fathers play. And more importantly, why does this problem -- if valid --manifests itself as such within communities of color, and in cities like Chicago? Surely the problem of gun violence in Urban America is far more complexed than bad parenting or the lack thereof, no? Most importantly, why was Obama's proposed marriage promotion widely acceptable, whereas when suggested by Mitt Romney as an answer to gun violence, it was shunned by even folks in Black intellegentsia? Yes, why the double standard? We'll also discuss the hot news stories of the day, as well as go in on the latest "ratchetness" of the week. So join us as we chop it up and lay it all on the table as we do each week on Madness & Reality Radio at 9PM(EST) on Blog Talk Radio. Listen live online, or by phone at (347) 324-5432.

View Details

Are Black women angry? The running racial stereotype suggests that they are. But, we know that racial stereotypes -- for the most part -- do not exist or serve to be a source of empowerment. That said, as it relates to Black women, there seems to be a recent trend of television shows, YouTube videos, and many stories in media to reinforce this stereotype.  So, is this problematic? If so, what can we do to dispel, dismiss, or redefine the myth? More importantly, what would you say is the driving force behind the stereotype of the angry black woman? And, are some women unconsciously reinforcing that stereotype with what some deem as inappropriate behavior?  Join us on yet another episode of Madness & Reality Radio as Team Madness chops it up with esteemed scholar of American & Africana Studies, playwright, and social activist, Dr. Kimberly Ellis PhD aka Dr. Goddess; as well as Mr. Gates aka Dark Hater, the host of the popular podcast Haterazzi Radio Show and creator of the "Die Hoodrat Die" campaign. We will explore this phenomenon and its consumption, in the new age of social media. Trust me, this one will be a hot one, folks -- don't miss it!

View Details

In this episode we discuss the ongoing critique of the Obama administration as it relates to poverty, in our current economy. Specifically, we'll discuss the substance of the debate, and its polarizing effect on the Black community at large. We'll get down to the nitty gritty, and explore the relevance of agitators in this new "post-racial" age of Obama.  So, are Tavis Smiley & Dr. Cornel West full of it? Is Barack Obama beyond reproach when it comes to the issue of poverty? More importantly, what exactly can he do to address the issue that directly impacts the lives of millions across the country negatively? Surely you have an opinion, right? Join us as we break it all down on Madness & Reality Radio. Feel free to follow the link below to listen live online. Or, you can call in and share your thoughts and comments at (347) 324-5232.

View Details

Tonight we will be  having a discussion about guns and  gun control laws. We  will be  welcoming as a very special guest on t his segment the blog legend Wayne Bennett, owner and author of award winning, critically acclaimed blog The Field Negro to bring his unique perspective on this whole gun control issue. Lots to talk about here and we will be touching on a lot of current topics that are relevant to the whole gun control issue including  Newtown, CT, and Aurora Co. as well as others. To get  some of you up to speed prior to the show here is the text of the Second Amendment: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

View Details

Join us in our inaugural episode -- yes, Madness & Reality Radio is here! Tonight we'll discuss the historic significance of the this week's inauguration of America's first black president relative to to Martin Luther King Day. Amd more importantly, what it means for the country. Also we'll take a look at the criticisms of the movie Django Unchained. Specifically, we'll explore the validity of the criticisms, and how we've internalized them as we move forward in this post-racial era of "blackness". Be sure to join Team Madness as we bring the ruckus as we're known to do daily at www.rippdemup.com.