Explore every episode of the podcast Naked Sports with Cari Champion

Welcome to Season 4 of NAKED SPORTS!

We're excited to kick off the season with a six-episode docu-series, *The Making of a Rivalry*, which follows the rise of women's basketball stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The series traces their journey from high school to college, examining the media frenzy that has fueled their rivalry. It highlights their impact on the sport and how they've shaped the perception of women's basketball. The series also explores the importance of rivalries in sports and why competition is essential. 

This episode features interviews with players, coaches, and sports journalists, offering insights into the players' skills, personalities, and the challenges they face.

Special guests in this episode include Jemele Hill, Sarah Spain, Sabreena Merchant, and more."

Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion

Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube!

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Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese caused a media frenzy after their infamous “you can’t see me” exchange in the 2023 NCAA championship game. There was a fierce debate over their perceived rivalry and it only intensified once they became the hottest prospects in the WNBA's rookie class. 

The media’s fixation on their so-called rivalry has been fueled by the same gender and racial bias that has haunted women’s sports for generations. And now that Clark and Reese have brought thousands of new fans to the sport, is it safe to say that this storyline is what the WNBA needed?  Or has it invited toxicity into a space that has always prided itself on its inclusivity and sisterhood?

In this groundbreaking series, Cari Champion searches for answers from those who know Clark and Reese best – from the coaches who helped shape their game, to the players and journalists who have witnessed their meteoric rise first-hand. Champion traces the incredible parallel paths of not just these two historic talents, but the WNBA itself, and sets the stage for the collision course that has brought us to this very moment. The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese is not just about two of the brightest flames the sport has ever seen, but it also asks an essential question – in a time of such divisiveness, is it possible to let greatness unite us?

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This is a special extended episode with one of the players who inspired Cari’s initial attraction to collegiate basketball.

Grant Henry Hill is a former American professional basketball player co-owner and executive of the Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association. He joins us from his family’s home in the D.C. area to share stories of his upbringing, family, and long-lasting commitment to the game.

Read: Game: An Autobiography

Listen: Game: An Autobiography – The Audiobook

Connect: @CariChampion @realGrantHill

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Lynette Woodard is a retired American basketball Hall of Fame player, the First Female Globetrotter, a 2x Olympic Gold Medalist, and a former women's basketball head coach. Woodard walks us through the particulars of what it’s like to be, "the first".

Connect:

@CariChampion

@theLynetteWoodard

Learn More: LynetteWoodard.com

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Dawn Staley grew up in a competitive household that prepared her for whatever the outside world would throw at her - but nothing could have readied her for being a female basketball player in the early ’90s. The WNBA was non-existent, and players had few career opportunities to compete professionally, but Staley was determined. She played overseas, worked odd jobs, and kept her head in the game, but not even she could have predicted the road that would lead her to South Carolina. After years of playing and coaching, Staley had witnessed various degrees of inequity, but this year '2021" she changed the sport and the trajectory for women to follow her. Off-the-court Dawn Staley has already won! During this episode, Staley speaks openly about her journey, what it took to get her here, and the risk involved. One thing is for certain; she earned this moment. Now back to the game.

Learn More: University of South Carolina Women's Basketball

Stay connected @CariChampion @staley05

Send us a message or write a review: @nakedwithcarichampion

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Born into a well-known talented family that has made a lasting imprint in the world of Gospel music, the natural progression would be to follow in their footsteps. However, Deborah Joy Winans decided to live her life following the direction of her heart. Deborah Joy is best known for her role in Greenleaf and The Final Say. She joins us today to share a special story about the birth of her son, when Oprah called her, and her upcoming role in the allblk original series, Terror Lake Drive.

Connect: @CariChampion @DeborahJoyWinans

Learn More: JoyWinans.com

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Angie Stone is a singer, songwriter, actress, and a legend in her own right.  You may remember her song, “Brotha” an anthem to uplift our brothers, sons, and fathers.  Angie Stone has been consistent with creating art that aligns with her soul, black love, and culture. Her new album, "Love Languages" is now available!  

Connect: @carichampion @theangiestone

Learn More: TheAngieStone.com

Listen: 

Angie Stone on Spotify

Angie Stone on Apple

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Van Lathan is an established host and media personality from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Currently, Van resides in Los Angeles and is developing film and television projects. Lathan is the author of Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation, Lathan explains in this episode why he wrote this book and how it helped him exercise some of his own demons. Van and Cari have a heated discussion over the unbalanced attraction men and women have to power. 

The Book: Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation

Connect: @VanLathan @CariChampion

Share your thoughts: @NakedwithCariChampion

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UPDATE: Lexi Underwood made the Forbes 30 Under 30 List. Congrats! 

Lexi Underwood is young, gifted, and black, and with the love and support of her family, she is on her way to greatness. Eight years ago after booking her role in, "The Lion King" her family decided to move to LA to further her career. Underwood is just getting started and as she leaves her teenage years behind, she readies herself for a softer life with focused intentions. She is an actress and activist with a clear direction for the work her generation has ahead of them.

Connect: @CariChampion @LexiUnderwood

Learn More: LexiUnderwood.com

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A memoir is a literary example of being, “Naked” and expressing your story to the page. Jemele Hill recently released her memoir, “Uphill” and she doesn’t hold back, but sometimes truth comes at a cost. They say the truth doesn’t have a temperature, but some of her family members (one in particular) was pretty heated over the stories Hill decided to tell in her debut book. In this episode we discuss the aftermath of living your truth, sharing your story, and being bold enough to do so.  Hill has consistently exhibited her bravery by standing by her words and opinions and you can expect nothing less from her book or this conversation.

Learn More: Jemele Hill

About the book: Uphill: A Memoir by Jemele Hill

Connect: @CariChampion @JemeleHill

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Styles P's name is synonymous with the Lox, New York, Hip Hop, and now a healthy lifestyle. Styles didn't grow up vegan/plant-based, but after making small changes over the years, he adopted the lifestyle to transition his health, mind, and energy intentionally. In this episode, Styles elaborates on how he ventured into creating healthier options in the neighborhoods that need them most. 

Connect: @StylesP @CariChampion   

Learn More: Farmacy For Life

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UPDATE: Amanda is currently on The Unlikeable Tour

Is Amanda Seales misunderstood or just an unfiltered unapologetic loud voice, and you have to be informed on the topics before you can understand her critiques? 

Seales is a Comedian and Common Sense Specialist and the creator of Smart, Funny & Black Radio. She gained her notoriety after making the radical decision to move across the country from New York to California and within four months was cast in HBO’s Insecure as Tiffany Dubois, she also explains how this character came to life.

As she continues to grow her online community and within the public eye, it’s not without a little backlash but we have a feeling, she won’t go quietly into the night…in fact, she might just get louder and louder and LOUDER.

Get informed: AmandaSeales.com

Connect: @CariChampion @AmandaSeales

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Highlight: Jocelyn Bioh received five Tony Award nominations for her play, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding Shop.

Broadway is evolving. With artists like Michael R Jackson, Jordan E Cooper, and our guest today, Jocelyn Bioh, Broadway is becoming a home for our stories.  As a Harlem native, Bioh was inspired to tell the story of the women we all have encountered, if/when you've ever visited Harlem. The women who feed the neighborhood's economy and provide a quintessential need. Every person who has visited a salon, deeply understands that getting your hair braided; is a well-rounded experience, perhaps even spiritual. Bioh shares this never-been-told intimate transformation with her audiences on Broadway!

The play, "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" is now on Broadway with its 2nd extended run till November 19th.  

Learn More: Jaja's African Hair Braiding

Get Tickets!

Connect: @CariChampion @JJBioh

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Linsey Davis, an ABC News anchor, discusses her career as a journalist and the challenges of remaining neutral in today's society. She shares her passion for telling meaningful stories and the importance of impactful journalism. Linsey also talks about the changing landscape of media, with the rise of streaming platforms and the ability for individuals to create their brand of television.

In this conversation,  Linsey and Cari discuss the importance of having uncomfortable conversations and the lack of nuance in today's society. They explore the challenges of discussing faith and personal beliefs in media and the need for empathy and understanding in conversations overall.

Linsey shares her experience as a children's author and the importance of representation and diversity in children's books. 

Connect: @CariChampion @LinseyDavis

Learn More: LinseyDavis.com

Read: Girls of the World: Doing More Than Ever Before

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MC Lyte discusses her latest single and the challenges of finding a successful relationship as a successful woman. She emphasizes the importance of being open and vulnerable in relationships and the difficulty of finding a partner who can match her frequency. The conversation also touches on the evolution of relationships and the changing dynamics between men and women. MC Lyte talks about her role as a producer in the Broadway revival of The Wiz and her upcoming projects as a director and musician. She expresses gratitude for the impact she has had on the culture and her intentions as a multi-hyphenated artist moving forward.

Connect: @CariChampion @McLyte

Attend: The WIZ on Broadway

Learn More: MCLyteNow.com

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In this episode, Cari Champion discusses the experiences of young black female athletes in the sports industry with Sanya Richards Ross, a decorated track and field star. They explore the narratives surrounding athletes like Angel Reese and Sha'Carri Richardson, who have faced praise and criticism for their outspokenness and success. The conversation delves into the challenges and expectations placed on black women in sports, the importance of authenticity, and the lessons that life teaches us. Sanya Richards Ross also shares her own experiences, and announces her involvement in various projects; including a pajama line, covering the Olympics, and a return to the Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Connect: @CariChampion @SanyaRichiRoss

Learn More: SRR.com

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In this conversation, B. Monét discusses her origin story, inspirations, and journey to becoming a filmmaker. She emphasizes the importance of black girl representation in media and the need for softness and care in storytelling.

She also discusses the challenges she faced at NYU and the power of film; as a medium for expressing emotions and showcasing the full humanity of black women.

Her new film, “Black Girls” is a love letter to emphasize the importance of Black girl joy and self-care, as well as the power of sisterhood among Black women. Highlighting the importance of connection and seeing each other. Monet understands the impact of centering Black women's experiences and is dedicated to making this a common thread within her work.  

Connect: @CariChampion @DirectherBMonet

Watch the Trailer: BLACK GIRLS Trailer

Xfinity: BLACK GIRLS on the Black Experience on Xfinity Channel

Download Xumo: BLACK GIRLS on XUMO

Learn More: B-Monet.com

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In this episode of Naked, Cari discusses the lack of emotional songs in mainstream music and reminisces about artists like Marvin Gaye and Luther Vandross. The guest, Ruben Studdard, winner of Season Two of American Idol and Platinum recording artist, shares how the show changed the landscape of reality competition shows. We also learn more about his life in Birmingham, the inspiration for his new album, and the importance of authenticity in R&B. 

Connect: @CariChampion @RealRubenStuddard 

Learn More: RubenStuddard.com

Listen: The Way I Remember It

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The conversation delves into the work ethic and upbringing of Tamron Hall, the challenges and assumptions surrounding motherhood, the importance of presentation in journalism, and the experiences of sexual harassment as a black woman. Hall shares stories; of motherhood, behind-the-scenes, and the writings of her true crime series as a cathartic experience.

Connect: @CariChampion @TamronHall

Read: Watch Where They Hide 

Watch: TamronHallShow.com

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In this bonus episode, Cari discusses the NCAA women's basketball tournament and highlights the growth of the game, focusing on the behavior and accountability of LSU head coach Kim Mulkey compared to South Carolina's head coach Dawn Staley. Cari questions whether Mulkey's behavior would be tolerated if she were black and highlights Staley's professionalism and leadership. The episode raises important questions about the treatment of black coaches and the need for progress and accountability in women's college basketball.

Connect: @CariChampion 

Subscribe: Cari Champion's YouTube Channel 

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In this conversation, Jasmine Guy discusses her career in dance and acting, her role in the groundbreaking TV show A Different World, and the importance of black representation in the media. She also shares her experiences with Tupac Shakur, her successes of being a black artist in Hollywood, and her upcoming projects including Harlem on Amazon Prime.

Connect: @CariChampion @IamJasmineGuy

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Phoebe Robinson returns to the podcast and she is back on tour! We love having her join us and being witness to her genius. Robinson is having a good time developing spaces for her creativity to thrive and it's allowing her to live and work outside of any specific box or idea. When Phoebe entered the indie comedy scene in 2008 it wasn't her ideal, but now she has hit her stride.  

Connect: @CariChampion @dopequeenpheebs

Tour Dates: PhoebeRobinson.com 

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The Black Effect Presents... Naked with Cari Champion!

This episode is a real honor because today Bobi Wine and Barbie Kyagulanyi join us to bring awareness to the plights and the hopes of Uganda and how we can show our support.  Bobi Wine ran for president of Uganda in 2021, he describes the election as going to hell and coming back.  He survived several attempts to take his life and it is believed that the presidency was stolen from him. Despite all the adversities Bobi and his family have experienced, he and his wife speak with a strong conviction for hope and inevitable change for their country.

“Oppressed people have never stayed oppressed forever, good has never lost to evil. We are sure we are going to win, we are sure because we are on the right side of morality…”

Watch the Documentary:

Bobi Wine – The People’s President on National Geographic on HULU or Disney

Connect: @CariChampion @BobiWine

Learn More: BobiWine.com

Support:

National Unity Platform

Caring Hearts Uganda

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In this conversation, Ledisi discusses her journey as a singer and actor, starting from her childhood in a musical household to discovering her talent and using it to connect with others. She shares her experiences of embracing different genres and breaking stereotypes, as well as the challenges of navigating the pressure to stay in a box. Ledisi also talks about the healing power of music, the importance of self-love, and her advocacy for other artists. 

Listen to Ledisi’s latest album, 'Good Life,'!!

Connect: @CariChampion @Ledisi

Learn More: Ledisi.com

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Muni Long speaks with us today about the frequencies of creating and how she channels the lyrics for the music she writes; for others and now for herself. Long has spent the last decade writing for various artists from; Rihanna, Madonna, Ariana Grande, and many more. And is now fully standing in her artistry, releasing her new single, "Made For Me"

Long has enough points on the board to now set a standard and hopefully a new precedent for all artists. She speaks with candid honesty about her boundaries in the industry.

**Since October '23, "Made For Me" has climbed the charts reaching No. 1 at R&B Radio!!

Connect: @CariChampion @MuniLong

Learn More: MuniLong.com

Listen:  Made For Me

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Isha Blaaker joins Naked today to discuss his background growing up in Suriname and the Netherlands, his aspirations in martial arts and modeling, and his transition to acting. He shares his experiences working on a Tyler Perry film and the growth he has seen in his acting skills. Isha also expresses the importance of the film 'Origin' in shedding light on racism and race relations. Isha opens up about his own experiences with racism in America and the challenges he has faced.

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It’s a Super Bowl Edition on NAKED this week and Cari sits down with Kobe Turner, a nose tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, and Coach Michael Locksley, the president and founder of the National Coalition for Minority Football Coaches. Kobe discusses his love for music and his dream of becoming a high school choir director. Coach Locksley talks about the lack of minority head coaches in the NFL and the work his organization is doing to promote and prepare aspiring coaches. Both guests share their experiences and perspectives on the importance of character, familiarity, and third-party validation in the coaching industry.

Connect:

@CariChampion

@KobieTurner

@CoachLocks

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In this conversation, Antonia Hylton discusses her book 'Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum' and the history of Crownsville, a mental facility for black patients during the Jim Crow era. The conversation covers the background of Antonia's interest in journalism and mental health, the discovery of Crownsville, the construction and operation of the facility, the treatment of patients, and the broader implications of Crownsville as a microcosm of American history. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and sharing our history to address the challenges of mental health in present-day America.

Connect:@CariChampion @AHylton26

Learn More: AntoniaHylton.com

Order MADNESS the Book

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In this conversation, Cheryl P. Williamson discusses the power of affirmations and the impact they can have on one's life. She shares her journey of using affirmations to overcome challenges and manifest her desires. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of self-love and the need to pour into oneself before pouring into others. She also talks about her writings, including her recently released book, “Affirmed Volume Two”.

Connect: @CariChampion @CherylPWilliamson

Learn More: CherylPWilliamson.com

Read: Affirmed Volume Two

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In this conversation, Chiké Okonkwo discusses his background as a Nigerian growing up in the UK, his journey to becoming an actor, and the challenges and triumphs he has faced in the industry. He reflects on the impact of the film 'The Birth of a Nation' and the importance of telling untold stories. Chiké also shares his experiences as a black man in America and the perseverance required in the acting profession. He discusses his voice acting work on the Calm app and the TV show 'La Brea,' where he explores his character's backstory.

We also explore the importance of complex characters and the impact of historical work. He shares his favorite performances by Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro, Samuel L. Jackson, and Sidney Poitier. He also introduces us to his new venture as one of the founders of Mansa, a platform for curated black culture.

Connect: @CariChampion @ChikeOkonkwo

Subscribe: Cari Champion’s YouTube Channel

Learn More: Mansa.com

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As we celebrate award season, Wilson Morales joins us from BlackFilmandTV.com to discuss predictions and he offers a 101 on the overall award show selection process. 

Connect: @CariChampion @WilsonMoralesFilm

Let us know your Oscar favorites and why! @NakedwithCariChampion

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Is Black Excellence a shield that protects us from scrutiny or attacks from extremist with subpar accusations that seemingly weigh heavier that our excellence by their accounts? Being great at doing what you do does not equate to an opportunity to continue to do so. Last week, Claudine Gay, the first black woman to hold the title of President of Harvard University in its 388 years history resigned or rather was forced to step down after being accused of plagiarism. Throughout countless occasions we can pinpoint circumstances where persons of color were forced to redirect their greatness or remove their excellence from the deemed goal, due to ill-intended persecution, is this another one of those scenarios?

Learn More: Claudine Gay

Connect: @CariChampion

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As we embrace a new year, we are taking a moment to highlight some of our favorite episodes and we hope you are also reflecting on your accomplishments from 2023! 

Happy New Year Champions! 

Connect: @CariChampion 

Visit: CariChampion.com

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Today is a gift to filmmakers and anyone who has a vision for their goals. A masterclass coupled with an intimate backstory of how Deniese Davis became the Producer she is today. Davis is entering into 2024 with her new company, Reform Media Group, and a production deal with Tyler Perry Studios to start creating her first film. Based on her trajectory thus far and her work with Issa Rae, the next chapter will continue to inspire. 

Connect: @CariChampion @MsDeniese

Learn More: RMG x TPS Deal 

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Mitchell S. Jackson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer. His debut novel The Residue Years won a Whiting Award and The Ernest J. Gaines Prize for Literary Excellence. But well before his acclaimed career took flight; he wrote a feature on three athletes from his neighborhood who didn’t make it to the NBA. Now years later well into his acclaimed career, his latest book brings him full circle back to the beginning with, “Fly” a coffee table book that fuses fashion with basketball. Listen to the end to hear Cari and Mitchell discuss their favorite NBA player’s fashion choices.

Connect: @CariChampion @MitchSJackson

Learn More: MitchellSJackson.com

FLY – The Big Book of Basketball Fashion Amazon | BOOKSHOP | B&N | POWELL’S | Apple

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Charmaine Wilkerson is the author of the New York Times Best-Selling novel, “Black Cake”. Wilkerson started her career as a journalist, but after finding more power in telling her truth through stories of fiction she started writing scenes and flash fiction stories; which led to her debut novel, Black Cake. Wilkerson’s voice and melodic speech will pull you in and offer an introduction to her eloquent approach to storytelling.

Connect: @CariChampion @charmspen1

Learn More: CharmsPen.com

Watch: Black Cake on Hulu

Read: Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

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This episode is an insight into the writer’s room. Syreeta Johnson is a Writer and Showrunner who received her start as an eager writer with the opportunity to submit her script to Issa Rae before the acclaim of Insecure on HBO. As Rae's success grew, so did Issa and Syreeta's relationship; from starting as an assistant on Insecure to now working as the Showrunner on Rae's new project, Rap Shit. Johnson shares her experiences at every level and how her confidence has grown while working through her own insecurities as a writer and a leader. 

Connect: @CariChampion @reetafajita

Watch: RAP SH!T ON MAX

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Born into a well-known talented family that has made a lasting imprint in the world of Gospel music, the natural progression would be to follow in their footsteps. However, Deborah Joy Winans decided to live her life following the direction of her heart. Deborah Joy is best known for her role in Greenleaf and The Final Say. She joins us today to share a special story about the birth of her son, when Oprah called her, and her upcoming role in the allblk original series, Terror Lake Drive.

Connect: @CariChampion @DeborahJoyWinans

Learn More: JoyWinans.com

Subscribe: Cari Champion’s YouTube Channel

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Candice Carty-Williams is an Author, Screenwriter, and Showrunner with a fearless pen. Williams says her job is to listen and to tell stories that provoke.  She has no inhibitions about conveying her experiences as they inspire her.  We discuss her first book, Queenie which is currently being adapted into a series for Hulu. Queenie is about a young British-Jamaican woman who is an utter mess and we ask Candice about her decision to make a character that doesn’t date within her race and her answer may surprisingly make sense to you.

Additional works by Candice Carty-Williams

People Person

Empress & Aniya

Champion Premiers in January on Netflix

Connect: @CariChampion @CandiceCartyWilliams

Learn More:

CANDICECARTYWILLIAMS.COM

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This week's episode is a NAKED REPLAY / a reminder of the importance of VOTING! 

Learn More: WhenWeAllVote.org

Connect: @CariChampion  @WhenWeAllVote

Subscribe: Cari Champion's YouTube Channel

NOTE: This episode originally aired in 2022 - The dates mentioned do not reflect present-day elections, be sure to check your local area scheduling for up and upcoming dates. 

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Zainab Johnson and Cari came up in the same circles as they made efforts to make names for themselves in their respective fields. Fast forward she affirms her success by recognizing the growth of her peers. Zainab is an actress and comedian, she joins us today to celebrate her new special, Hijabs Off now available on Amazon Prime. 

Connect: @CariChampion @ZainabJohnson

Learn More: ZainabJohnson.com

Watch: Hijabs Off on Prime 

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The road to becoming a comedian started as a “hobby” or at least that’s what Aida Rodriguez called it, in order to protect her dream. It’s no secret that her candid pursuit has blossomed into a successful career. Fast forward she now holds several titles, comedian, actress, activist, and now an author.  Aida doesn’t hold back from her truth in this episode or in her book, “Legitimate Kid” and she shares a funny yet healing confession with and about Cari.

Read Aida’s memoir, Legitimate Kid now available!

Connect: @CariChampion  @FunnyAida

Learn More: FunnyAida.com

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Broadway is evolving. With artists like Michael R Jackson, Jordan E Cooper, and our guest today, Jocelyn Bioh, Broadway is becoming a home for our stories.  As a Harlem native, Bioh was inspired to tell the story of the women we all have encountered, if/when you've ever visited Harlem. The women who feed the economy of the neighborhood and provide a quintessential need. Every person who has visited a salon, deeply understands that getting your hair braided; is a well-rounded experience, perhaps even spiritual. Bioh shares this never-been-told intimate transformation with her audiences on Broadway!

The play, "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" is now on Broadway with its 2nd extended run till November 19th.  

Learn More: Jaja's African Hair Braiding

Get Tickets!

Connect: @CariChampion @JJBioh

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Muni Long speaks with us today about the frequencies of creating and how she channels the lyrics for the music she writes for others and now for herself. Long has spent the last decade writing for various artists from; Rihanna, Madonna, Ariana Grande, and many more. And is now fully standing in her artistry, releasing her new single, "Made For Me"

Long has enough points on the board to now set a standard and hopefully a new precedent for all artist. She speaks with candid honesty about her boundaries in the industry.

Connect: @CariChampion @MuniLong

Learn More: MuniLong.com

Listen:  Made For Me

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The revolution needs not to be sponsored by anger or aggression. Bethann Hardison is considered to be an activist, she revolutionized fashion, and some refer to her as the Godmother of Fashion, and yes she indeed is all these things and deserves these titles. However, she didn’t gain them through force. Her approach was always to educate and inspire change within her industry. She has indelibly made her mark on the world, and even if unknowingly her work to expose human commonality has affected you.

Bethann joins us today to share her latest work as a documentarian. The film, Invisible Beauty is not just a film about fashion, it is a beautiful reflection of how we can create change together.

Learn More:  BethannHardison.com

Connect: @CariChampion @BethannHardison

Watch the movie: Invisible Beauty

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We catch up with Steven Melendez at the New York Theatre of Ballet, where he started his career at the early age of seven years old. His journey with the NYTB has come full circle after being appointed the Artistic Director in 2022, where he now mentors and guides the careers of young dancers. As a young Puerto Rican boy from the Bronx, it wasn’t likely for him to pursue and gain success in the world of ballet; thankfully for the LIFT outreach program, Melendez was able to find his art and career.  He joins us today to celebrate the release of the Lift documentary, filmed over 10 years detailing Melendez’s return to the Bronx shelter of his past, and focuses on the mentorship of three young dancers as Melendez runs the outreach program that he once attended as a child. 

Connect: @CariChampion @TheStevenMelendez

Learn More: Lift Documentary  StevenMelendez.com

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Michael Jai White is a unique leader within his lane. White holds eight black belts and many titles as an Independent filmmaker.  In this episode, we talk about White's life prior to acting including his work as a security guard for Oprah. He also shares some of the challenges he faced as an alpha black male earlier in his career. Fast forward White didn't wait for a role to be handed to him, he decided to create them independently. 

His latest film, Outlaw Johnny Black is now in theaters. 

Connect: @CariChampion @OfficialMichaelJai
Watch More: Michael Jai YouTube Channel
Learn More:  MichaelJaiWhite.com

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A child of the arts with inspiration from all directions. Growing up with a musical family and entering the game at an early age.  Mya recently celebrated the 25th year Anniversary of her first album, released a new single, and unreleased projects she can’t wait to share! In this episode, Mya defines what being an artist means to her and how important it has been to start her own independent label. She made a commitment to herself; to write her own narrative while loving herself completely.

Connect: @CariChampion @MyaPlanet9

Learn More: MYAMYA.com

Listen: Whine ft Bounty Killer

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Phoebe Robinson returns to the podcast and she is back on tour! We love having her join us and being witness to her genius. Robinson is having a good time developing spaces for her creativity to thrive and it's allowing her to live and work outside of any specific box or idea. When Phoebe entered the indie comedy scene in 2008 it wasn't her ideal, but now she has hit her stride.  

Connect: @CariChampion @dopequeenpheebs

Tour Dates: PhoebeRobinson.com 

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Tommy Davidson was raised in an era where quality came first as an entertainer, he prides his work and longevity based on the company and talent he group up with.  We learn about his life from the beginning; from being adopted to learning racism and what his skin color meant in the world, to his early start as a comedian making his friend laugh that pushed him to the stage.

Read: Living in Color: What's Funny About Me: Stories from In Living Color, Pop Culture, and the Stand-Up Comedy Scene of the 80s & 90s

Connect: @CariChampion @TheRealTommyCat

Learn More: TommyDavidson.com

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