Van and Rachel review Drake’s highly anticipated new album, ‘Iceman.’ Did it live up to the hype? Then they discuss a white college student’s alleged scheme to attract Black athletes before gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer joins the podcast to shed light on his potential policies for the Golden State. (0:00) Intro (8:33) ‘Iceman’ album review (35:06) Black athlete scheme (54:59) Tom Steyer joins the show (1:56:00) Polls in CA races Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Tom Steyer Produce...
May 19, 2026•2 hr 7 min
Van and Rachel react to Jason Lee and Peter Rosenberg’s "culture vulture" conversation and the AKA’s being upset with Rachel, before discussing Chud the Builder's shooting and arrest and calls for student-athletes to boycott SEC schools. Then author Tiffany D. Cross joins to talk about her new book, ‘Love, Me: A Letter to Black Women in a Toxic Country, Career, and Relationship.’ (0:00) Intro (13:47) Jason Lee, Peter Rosenberg and culture vulture accusations (27:12) AKA Sorority Inc. backlash (3...
May 15, 2026•2 hr 41 min
Van and Rachel recap ‘The Roast of Kevin Hart’ and discuss this era of gerrymandering and ABC challenging the FCC. Then, Stephen A. Smith has a wish for Black voters, James Charles apologizes, and Caitlin Clark does the Morgan Wallen walk. (0:00) Intro (0:14) 'The Roast of Kevin Hart' (17:27) Virginia redistricting ruling (36:04) ABC vs. the FCC (48:02) Stephen A. Smith and the Black vote (1:02:29) James Charles berates former Spirit Airlines employee (1:33:28) Caitlin Clark and Morgan Wallen (1...
May 12, 2026•1 hr 54 min
Van and Rachel react to the verdict in the Stefon Diggs case before discussing the Bezos backlash at the Met Gala. Plus, Quavo and Offset tease new music, and Van has a brand-new VanLaTEN list. (0:00) Intro (4:33) Responding to viral racism (15:10) Stefon Diggs found not guilty (29:47) The Met Gala and Jeff Bezos (42:53) MrBeast birthday love (54:41) New music from Migos? (1:00:12) L.A. mayoral debate (1:16:08) Dana White on masculinity and mental health (1:26:29) Dianna Russini–Mike Vrabel upda...
May 08, 2026•2 hr 5 min
Van and Rachel look back on the legacy of 'Love & Hip-Hop' before reacting to the pausing of Post Malone and Jelly Roll’s stadium tour. Plus, Scott Jennings gets flustered on CNN and Fernando Mendoza skips the White House visit, before a conversation about colorism and Blackness. (0:00) Intro (17:37) The end of ‘Love & Hip-Hop’ (32:37) Post Malone and Jelly Roll cancellations (44:51) Scott Jennings and CNN’s ‘Newsnight’ (1:06:27) Fernando Mendoza and the White House (1:23:19) Colorism an...
May 05, 2026•2 hr 4 min
Van and Rachel react to the news of Druski hosting the BET Awards before discussing the Supreme Court’s latest blow against the Voting Rights Act. Then L.A. Mayor Karen Bass joins to answer questions about her plan for the city in a second term. (0:00) Intro (0:14) Druski hosting BET Awards (9:26) A Megan and Klay Thompson talk pt. 2 (21:31) The Supreme Court and voting rights (53:40) Mayor Karen Bass joins the show Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Mayor Karen Bass Producers: Donnie B...
May 01, 2026•2 hr 9 min
Van and Rachel discuss distrust around the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting, before reacting to cheating allegations from Megan Thee Stallion about Klay Thompson. Then, Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr stops by to shed light on being “everyone’s favorite cousin,” before comedian Aida Rodriguez joins to preview Van’s upcoming standup set. (0:00) Intro (1:34) White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting (19:46) Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson’s breakup (56:30) Durand Bern...
Apr 28, 2026•2 hr 21 min
‘Michael’ Review, ‘Iceman’ Preview, and Kendrick Sampson on Quincy Jones and Black Creativity Van and Rachel give a review of the Michael Jackson biopic before digging into theories about Drake’s upcoming album. Plus, they give a recap of the California gubernatorial debate before actor Kendrick Sampson joins to give insight on his portrayal of Quincy Jones in the film ‘Michael.’ (0:00) Intro (8:08) ‘Michael’ review (33:06) ‘Iceman’ preview (48:22) California gubernatorial debate (1:02:59) Kendr...
Apr 24, 2026•2 hr 10 min
Van and Rachel sit down with the star and director of the new Netflix series ‘Man on Fire’ following a screening of the show’s first episode. Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guests: Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Steven Caple Jr. Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Jade Whaley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Apr 23, 2026•34 min
Van and Rachel react to Mary J. Blige’s comments on her 2012 Burger King commercial before discussing Roland Martin’s response to Justin Fairfax killing his wife, Cerina, and then himself. Then writer Jamilah Lemieux joins to talk about her new book, ‘Black. Single. Mother.: Real Life Tales of Longing and Belonging.’ (0:00) Intro (4:49) Mary J. Blige’s Burger King commercial (16:04) Roland Martin’s response to the Fairfax murder-suicide (46:06) Jamilah Lemieux joins the show (48:16) Shame in bei...
Apr 21, 2026•2 hr 19 min
Van and Rachel discuss the mysterious circumstances around the death of an influencer before diving into Dave Chappelle’s interview with NPR and Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar’s comments on embracing Trump allies. Plus, an argument for Trump being the Antichrist. Then, Michael Tubbs, a candidate for lieutenant governor of California, joins the show. (0:00) Intro (06:38) The mysterious death of an influencer (13:49) Dave Chappelle's NPR interview (37:26) Representative Ilhan Omar on former ...
Apr 17, 2026•2 hr 14 min
Van and Rachel recap the first weekend of Coachella, before discussing Afrika Bambaataa’s legacy and reported history of abuse. Then, Trump shares an image of himself as Dr. Christ, Gucci Mane releases a diss track, and the church gets lit. (0:00) Intro (2:54) Coachella recap: Justin Bieber (11:47) Coachella recap: Sabrina Carpenter (22:54) The legacy of Afrika Bambaataa (42:18) Rep. Eric Swalwell suspends campaign (51:59) Van makes an endorsement for Governor of CA (58:07) Trump’s Jesus post (1...
Apr 14, 2026•1 hr 58 min
Van and Rachel react to the shooting of the rapper Offset before welcoming HuffPost’s Akbar Shahid Ahmed to discuss the latest on the conflict in Iran. Then, actor Mark Kassen joins to discuss his newest film, ‘PH-1.’ (0:00) Intro (1:10) Jake Paul and blackface (7:11) Offset’s shooting (10:33) The state of Atlanta hip-hop (17:12) Akbar Shahid Ahmed joins the show (43:45) Kanye and the cancellation of Wireless Fest (51:59) Peak white mess: Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini (59:25) Rachel vs. the AKA...
Apr 10, 2026•2 hr 14 min
Van and Rachel discuss NBA players' dislike for staying in Memphis before reacting to Trump’s Easter message about Iran and Edward Blum’s fight against civil rights. (0:00) Intro (22:21) The NBA vs. Memphis (41:19) Trump’s Easter message (59:30) Joe Rogan and Theo Von on Iran (1:23:10) Edward Blum’s latest lawsuit (1:37:52) Sponsors and Kanye West (2:03:18) Trick Daddy vs. the AKAs Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Donnie Beacham Jr. and Jade Whaley Social Producer: Bernard Moore V...
Apr 07, 2026•2 hr 20 min
Van and Rachel discuss the firing of Attorney General Pam Bondi and revelations about former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s husband before reacting to the arrest of Pooh Shiesty. Plus a discussion of Jaden Ivey, Brandy and Wanya Morris’s relationship and Deontay Wilder’s wild comments. (0:00) Intro (0:54) AG Pam Bondi fired (26:06) Trump’s prime-time address (43:19) Kristi Noem’s husband and ‘bimbofication’ (1:09:33) Pooh Shiesty’s arrest (1:26:42) Jaden Ivey waived after IG posts (1:41:50) Brandy ...
Apr 03, 2026•2 hr 23 min
Van and Rachel react to Chilli’s rejection of the MAGA label, the politics of Nick Cannon and Amber Rose, and the latest music from Kanye West. Then, California gubernatorial candidate Dr. Butch Ware joins to discuss the two-party system and his plan for the communities of the state. (0:00) Intro (6:16) Black Republicans (13:02) Chilli denies being "MAGA" (35:52) The politics of Amber Rose and Nick Cannon (1:15:12) Ye’s ‘Bully’ album review (1:26:12) Dr. Butch Ware joins the show Hosts: Van Lath...
Mar 31, 2026•3 hr 11 min
Van and Rachel react to the latest from the LaRussell controversy before discussing Jay-Z’s interview with GQ and Usher’s comments on Diddy. Then, actresses Taylor Polidore Williams and Crystle Stewart from Netflix’s ‘Beauty in Black’ join the show. (0:00) Intro (9:05) Social media addiction ruling (21:47) NBA salary cap (30:48) Druski’s “conservative women” skit (49:04) LaRussell controversy (1:02:44) Jay-Z, capitalism, and beef (1:29:15) Usher on Diddy (1:53:10) Taylor Polidore Williams and Cr...
Mar 27, 2026•2 hr 24 min
Van and Rachel discuss ICE and TSA before reacting to the latest from the 'Bachelorette' cancelation. Plus: the release of Justin Timberlake’s DUI arrest footage, the return of the movie star, and Van’s got a take on J. Cole and ‘biracials.’ Then, Emma Vigeland from 'The Majority Report’ joins to discuss the war in Iran. (0:00) Intro (07:12) ICE and TSA (20:52) 'Bachelorette' season cancelled (51:10) Justin Timberlake arrest video (1:03:14) The return of the movie star (1:11:10) The biracial jih...
Mar 24, 2026•2 hr 37 min
Van and Rachel remember the life of Kiki Shepard before discussing the negotiations between the WNBA and WNPBA that led to a verbal agreement for a new CBA. Then they discuss the recent New York Times investigation into Cesar Chavez. After that, the two get into the big controversy revolving around reality star Taylor Frankie Paul, Afroman’s lawsuit, and Ray J’s most recent viral moment: defending his sister Brandy. Lastly, the two are joined by former Ringer colleague, poet, and author Jonathan...
Mar 20, 2026•2 hr 10 min
Van and Rachel react to the Oscars before discussing Jack Harlow’s comments on his new album, LaRussell and what it means to be "heaven sent," and spring breakers taking Houston. Then hosts of The Big Picture, Amanda Dobbins and Sean Fennessey, join to look back at an Oscar season to remember. (0:00) Intro (2:09) Academy Awards reactions (26:04) Jack Harlow’s "gotten Blacker" (41:41) LaRussell backlash (59:23) Spring break in Houston (1:18:53) Amanda Dobbins and Sean Fennessey join the show Host...
Mar 17, 2026•2 hr 6 min
Van and Rachel welcome Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro to discuss his memoir, ‘Where We Keep the Light,’ working across the aisle in the MAGA age, and community policing. Plus, addressing the rise in anti-semitism and approaching division on the Israel-Gaza conflict. (0:00) Intro (03:32) ‘Where We Keep the Light’ (08:58) Are we better than this? (16:22) Crime and policing (29:37) An NBA tangent (32:26) Relationship with Meek Mill (38:07) “Too bad a Jew can’t be president” (46:03) Israel and t...
Mar 14, 2026•1 hr 7 min
Van and Rachel react to the cancellation of the Atlanta Hawks’ "Magic City Night" and Bam Adebayo’s 83 points before switching gears to discuss potential threats from Iran. Plus, Harvey Weinstein speaks from behind bars, Ari Lennox gives life to a meme, and the Target boycott appears to be over. Then, Ryan Michelle Bathé, host of the ‘Paradise’ companion podcast joins to talk season 2 of the hit Hulu show. (0:00) Intro (2:32) Magic City Night canceled (13:27) Bam’s 83 points (42:34) Harvey Weins...
Mar 13, 2026•2 hr 51 min
Van and Rachel discuss Logan Paul vs. Le’Veon Bell and Dak Prescott’s wedding being called off before reacting to the shooting at Rihanna’s home. Then, they discuss an update on the war in Iran before actress Jayme Lawson joins to talk representation in Hollywood, awards season, and of course, ’Sinners.’ (0:00) Intro (2:08) Logan Paul vs. Le’Veon Bell (10:23) Dak Prescott and prenups (24:25) The shooting at Rihanna’s home (28:14) War in Iran (41:07) A conversation about Joe Budden: rooting for U...
Mar 10, 2026•1 hr 50 min
Van and Rachel react to President Donald Trump’s ouster of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and the results of the Texas Senate primary race before having another Drake–Kendrick Lamar debate thanks to Michael Eric Dyson. Finally, Pamela Dias and Takema Robinson join to discuss the grief, justice, and resilience behind the Netflix documentary 'The Perfect Neighbor.' (0:00) Intro (0:22) The cost of haircuts (11:34) Kristi Noem fired by Trump (23:18) ‘Scary Movie 6’ and cancel ...
Mar 06, 2026•2 hr 14 min
Van and Rachel welcome Indiana University associate professor Hussein Banai, who gives his insight on the joint strikes against Iran. Then they switch gears to discuss Michael B. Jordan’s Oscar odds and Jonathan Majors’s next project. Then Jeff and Nicole Friday join to celebrate 30 years of the American Black Film Festival. (0:00) Intro (09:23) Hussein Banai on the conflict in Iran (41:53) Predictive history (1:02:20) NAACP Image Awards (1:09:27) Oscar speculation (1:23:36) Jonathan Majors and ...
Mar 03, 2026•2 hr 18 min
Kevin Fredericks, aka KevOnStage, joins Van and Rachel for a discussion that touches on everything from fear of failure, jokes, the Black church, gospel, and hip-hop. (0:00) Intro (:38) Getting past fear (15:50) God’s sense of humor (26:23) Pressure to get political (32:20) Gospel, hip-hop, and R&B (52:37) Going to church (58:45) Scripture, sexuality and the church (1:29:50) Oversharing and overexposure (1:42:09) “The Christian I will not be” (1:46:12) Boyz II Men vs. Dru Hill (1:49:59) Anit...
Feb 27, 2026•2 hr 1 min
Van and Rachel react to the conversations around racism and ableism following outbursts at the BAFTA Awards, and Teddy Riley walking back support for R. Kelly. Plus, Gavin Newsom gets criticized, (0:00) Intro (9:24) N-word at the BAFTA Awards (34:53) Teddy Riley and R. Kelly (57:31) Gavin Newsom backlash (1:15:55) Huckabee on Israel: “Fine if they took it all” (1:30:55) Trump, Susan Rice, and Netflix (1:36:25) Economic viability for men Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Donnie Beac...
Feb 24, 2026•2 hr 10 min
Van and Rachel remember the life of Jesse Jackson before addressing Shia LaBeouf’s Mardi Gras and the latest drama in the Texas Senate race. Then, a breakdown of "Afro-pessimism" before Cori Bush joins to discuss her campaign for Congress. And last but not least, thoughts on Tyler Perry’s most vulgar film. (0:00) Intro (9:17) Tyra Banks & America’s Next Top Model (20:28) The life of Jesse Jackson (31:34) Addressing Shia LaBeouf (42:15) Colbert, Crockett, and Talarico (1:14:33) Patrick Bet-Da...
Feb 20, 2026•2 hr 55 min
Van and Rachel discuss the NBA dunk contest before reacting to leaks from an alleged burner account, and LeBron’s message to his Israeli fans. Then, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove joins to discuss the Pam Bondi hearings, before Ed Zitron returns to shed light on the world of AI. (0:00) Intro (8:39) NBA dunk contest (19:32) The very alleged Kevin Durant files (39:42) LeBron James and Israel (1:05:58) Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove interview (1:42:07) Ed Zitron interview (2:12:55) Hillary Clinton on migrati...
Feb 17, 2026•2 hr 29 min
Van and Rachel welcome The Ringer’s Logan Murdock to react to Ja Rule’s confrontation with Uncle Murda and Tony Yayo on a flight, before they discuss more revelations from the Epstein files, hip-hop in the Trump era, and an HGTV show’s cancellation for the host's use of the N-word. (0:00) Intro (3:19) Ja Rule vs. G-Unit in 2026 (19:15) Latest Epstein updates (1:02:15) Symone Sanders Townsend and Eugene Daniels join the show (1:39:33) James Talarico vs. Jasmine Crockett (1:50:53) Hip-hop serves o...
Feb 13, 2026•2 hr 21 min
