Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay - podcast cover

Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

The Ringer theringer.com
Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay dissect the biggest topics in Black culture, politics, and sports. Two times per week, they will wade into the most important and timely conversations, frequently inviting guests on the podcast and occasionally debating each other.
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Episodes

Once Again…Kanye West, Plus Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins on ‘Trials to Triumphs’

Van and Rachel discuss Kanye West’s antisemitic tweets and how these aren’t the first anti-Jewish comments Van has heard from him (16:22), plus Killer Mike is critical of Stacey Abrams's campaign governor (26:45). Then Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins joins to talk about her podcast ‘Trials to Triumphs’ (40:44), and former pro-basketball player Jack McClinton discusses his now-viral question, “Do white lives not matter?” (1:19:22). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guests: Ashley Blaine F...

Oct 11, 20222 hr 13 min

Biden’s Marijuana Pardons, and Herschel Walker Plays Defense

Van and Rachel react to the news of President Biden pardoning federal offenses involving marijuana possession (17:10), before digging into Herschel Walker’s alleged abortion hypocrisy (26:16). Plus, "Fat Joe" likes saying the n-word (51:14 ) and, in other news, we’ve got a mountain lion update (1:04:33). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Oct 07, 20221 hr 27 min

Ye and White Lives Matter, Plus Soledad O’Brien on ‘The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks’

Van and Rachel react to Kanye West wearing a White Lives Matter shirt (17:38), and Tory Lanez is unapologetic but back (36:31). Plus, Emmy and Peabody award-winning broadcast journalist Soledad O’Brien joins to discuss her documentary, ‘The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks’ (52:05), and the current state of journalism (1:06:00). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Soledad O’Brien Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Oct 04, 20221 hr 33 min

Jemele Hill on the Malika Andrews Discourse. Plus, Rachel Dolezal’s OnlyFans Leak

Van and Rachel welcome Jemele Hill, journalist and host of ‘Jemele Hill Is Unbothered,’ to discuss the online backlash aimed at Malika Andrews amid the Ime Udoka news (9:31). Plus, a discussion of Hurricane Ian’s impact on Florida (35:56), the life and career of Coolio (42:07), and Rachel Dolezal’s OnlyFans leak (1:12:33). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Jemele Hill Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Sep 30, 20221 hr 43 min

Anna Wolfe on Brett Favre’s Impact on the Most Vulnerable

Van and Rachel welcome investigative journalist Anna Wolfe to discuss her reporting of the Brett Favre welfare funding scandal (21:05), before discussing the latest news regarding Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka’s suspension (1:00:09). Plus, a Tennessee principal says the “N-word” (1:23:09) and Rihanna’s performing at the Super Bowl (1:30:01) Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Anna Wolfe Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adch...

Sep 27, 20221 hr 44 min

Ime Udoka’s Troubles and Adam Levine’s Peak White Mess

Van and Rachel discuss the pending suspension of Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka for having a relationship with a woman on staff (17:11), and NBA and WNBA team owner Robert Server selling his teams (37:46). Plus, a Black Memphis woman sues police for failing to investigate her rape after the suspect has been charged with the murder of a White woman (45:25), and Adam Levine’s infidelity gets the social media treatment (56:48). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham ...

Sep 23, 20221 hr 27 min

Discussing Slavery and Presentism, Plus Breaking Down the SAFE-T Act With Sen. Robert Peters

Van and Rachel discuss Bill Maher’s recent comments about slavery and his criticism of “presentism” (14:11), before reacting to the social media conversations around ‘The Woman King’ (47:42). Plus, Charlamagne tha God has a questionable take on the shipping of migrants (1:01:38), then Sen. Robert Peters joins the show to help break down Illinois’ SAFE-T Act (1:11:05). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Sen. Robert Peters Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices....

Sep 20, 20221 hr 51 min

The Tragedy of PnB Rock’s Death, and Robert Sarver’s Suspension

Van and Rachel react to the killing of rapper PnB Rock and the ensuing social fallout (0:10). Plus, Phoenix Suns and Mercury owner Robert Server gets suspended after allegations of racism and misogyny (35:17), and Ray J produces receipts (47:35). Then, the roses and racism of the 'Bachelor' franchise return (57:47). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Sep 13, 20221 hr 9 min

Black Twitter and the Death of Queen Elizabeth II

Van and Rachel react to the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s death and the overall legacy of the crown (12:28), before giving an update on the Jackson, Mississippi water crisis (32:37). Plus, Kim Kardashian discusses her talent (53:56), and the “Peak White Mess” of the 'Don’t Worry Darling' press tour gets broken down (1:04:07). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Sep 09, 20221 hr 17 min

Pennsylvania Weed Pardons and Brett Favre the Welfare Queen

Van and Rachel discuss Pennsylvania announcing an effort to pardon state residents of nonviolent marijuana offenses (20:39), and Mississippi using welfare money to pay Brett Favre (34:16). Plus, Tiffany Haddish responds to backlash (58:54), and Scottie Pippen’s ex-wife spotted out with Michael Jordan’s son (1:16:44). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Sep 06, 20221 hr 59 min

Mississippi Water Crisis and Serena the Great

Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay react to the institutional failures that left Jackson, Mississippi without water (20:25), Serena Williams’s performance at the U.S. Open (35:24), and discuss Jay-Z’s relationship with capitalism (55:57). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 02, 20221 hr 36 min

Hip-Hop vs. Rap and a Discussion on a Woman’s Worth With Glasses Malone

Van and Rachel are joined by rapper Glasses Malone to discuss what it was like growing up in gang life (4:29), the impact of Drill Music and hip-hop vs. rap (18:54), and finding “value” in a modern woman (42:40). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Glasses Malone Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 26, 20221 hr 20 min

African Film and Adapting ‘The Color Purple’ With Blitz Bazawule

Van and Rachel are joined by musician, author, and director Blitz Bazawule to discuss the importance of African films made by African filmmakers (7:27), his experience working with Beyoncé on ‘Black Is King’ (10:44), and his upcoming musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ (14:39). Plus, which country has the best jollof (26:30)? Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Blitz Bazawule Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Aug 23, 202240 min

Investigating Trump With Rep. Pete Aguilar, Plus Deshaun Watson Apologizes

Van and Rachel discuss the Espionage Act as it relates to the FBI investigation of Donald Trump (14:21), before reacting to Deshaun Watson’s apology as the NFL preseason gets underway (31:08). Plus, U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar joins to discuss the January 6 congressional committee (42:42), and the church comes for Beyoncé (1:09:08). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Rep. Pete Aguilar Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Aug 16, 20221 hr 38 min

Aldis Hodge Talks ‘City on a Hill,’ ‘Black Adam,’ and More, Plus the Cale Gundy Story and the Latest on Alex Jones

Van and Rachel are joined by actor Aldis Hodge to discuss latest season of ‘City on a Hill', the importance of being a Black man cast as Carter Hall in the upcoming DC film ‘Black Adam’, and much more (29:26). Van and Rachel also react to the resignation of Oklahoma football assistant coach Cale Gundy (0:50), the latest in the Alex Jones trials (01:14:53), and debate a love story published in the New York Times (17:04). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Aldis Hodge Producer: Richie Boz...

Aug 09, 20221 hr 31 min

A Deep Dive Into the Deshaun Watson Suspension and Brittney Griner’s Sentence

Van and Rachel analyze the reasoning behind Deshaun Watson’s six-game suspension (12:04), react to Brittney Griner’s sentencing in Russian court (42:31), and discuss the federal charges against Breonna Taylor’s killers (54:04). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 05, 20221 hr 21 min

Deshaun Watson’s “Punishment” and Monkeypox on the Rise

Van and Rachel remember the lives of Bill Russell and Nichelle Nichols (10:42) before reacting to Deshaun Watson’s six-game suspension for sexual misconduct (25:50). Plus, monkeypox continues to be a public health crisis (52:48). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 02, 20221 hr 11 min

The Safer America Plan, Plus Inflation Reduction With Marc Goldwein

Van and Rachel break down President Biden’s Safer America Plan to fight violent crime (10:39), the latest news regarding Brittney Griner and a potential prisoner exchange (25:42), and Kyler Murray’s contractually obligated study (50:38). Plus, Marc Goldwein, Senior Policy Director for the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, joins to discuss the Inflation Reduction Act (56:53). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Marc Goldwein Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad ...

Jul 29, 20221 hr 41 min

Colorism and Keke Palmer, Plus 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' Trailer Reactions

Van and Rachel discuss 'Nope' and the colorism debate and career comparisons of Keke Palmer and Zendaya (16:20), DaBaby’s support of Donald Trump (43:07) and the robbery of a church caught on Instagram Live (56:36). Plus, reactions to the much anticipated ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ trailer (1:18:32). Host: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 26, 20221 hr 34 min

The Power of Audio Storytelling’ Hosted by Rachel Lindsay

At the 2022 Essence Festival, Rachel hosted a panel at Spotify’s ‘House of Are & Be’ activation called, “The Power of Audio Storytelling”. Featured panelists included Danyel Smith, host of Black Girl Songbook, Lovelyti, host of Tea Time UNFILTERED with Lovelyti, along with Dr. Titi Shodiya and Dr. Zakiya Whatley, hosts of Dope Labs. ENJOY! Host: Rachel Lindsay Guests: Danyel Smith, Lovelyti, Dr. Titi Shodiya, and Dr. Zakiya Whatley Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choice...

Jul 20, 202246 min

Amber Rose in-studio, and the Sesame Place Situation

Van and Rachel discuss the Sesame Place backlash following a video of a character ignoring Black children (22:30) before welcoming model, author, and musician Amber Rose to discuss the arc of her career (38:23). Plus, a pair of prominent members of the church come under fire for questionable comments (1:42:06). Hosts: Van Lathan Jr. and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Amber Rose Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 19, 20222 hr 13 min

The Put Your Shoes On Challenge, and Jill Biden on Tacos

Van and Rachel discuss a new viral trend and whether it’s traumatic, funny, or both (19:15). Plus, Jill Biden compares Latinos to breakfast tacos (30:46), concern grows for Orlando Brown following his Bow Wow comments (55:06), and LeBron questions Brittney Griner wanting to return to the U.S. (1:00:56). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 15, 20221 hr 35 min

'N-Word’ Usage in Music and Biden’s Executive Order

Van and Rachel discuss white fans rapping along to lyrics that contain the n-word (6:51), before digging into Pres. Biden’s executive order on abortion access (26:02). Plus, Doja Cat’s ‘Stranger Things’ DM’s become public (41:01) and Herschel Walker says some things (59:16). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 12, 20221 hr 22 min

Congressional Twerking and a Diaspora Discussion

Van and Rachel are joined by Rhode Island state Senator Tiara Mack to address "respectability politics" after going viral for twerking (8:49). Then, comedian and podcaster Marlon Palmer joins to discuss a recent tweet about the African diaspora (41:02). Plus, an update on the Brittney Griner situation (1:03:40). Host: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guests: Sen. Tiara Mack and Marlon Palmer Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 08, 20221 hr 22 min

Jayland Walker’s Unnecessary Death and Talking Mass Shootings … Again

Van and Rachel react to the latest police shooting that saw an unarmed man shot 60 times in Akron, OH (22:25), before discussing a July 4th weekend of tragedy (38:09). Plus, Brittney Griner pens a letter to President Biden from a Russian prison (1:02:40) and dynamics of the Black diaspora are discussed (1:16:41). Host: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jul 05, 20221 hr 42 min

R. Kelly Sentenced and Inflation Talk With Marc Goldwein

Van and Rachel react to R. Kelly’s 30-year sentence and the "normalization" of his crimes (17:02), plus Ketanji Brown Jackson is officially sworn in (24:26) to the Supreme Court. They are then joined by Marc Goldwein, senior policy director for the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, to break down the current state of the U.S. economy (41:07). Host: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Marc Goldwein Producers: Trudy Joseph and Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit po...

Jul 01, 20221 hr 40 min

The Overturning of Roe v. Wade

Van and Rachel react to the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and discuss how people will be immediately affected (13:42), talk about the political and actionable plan going forward (23:26), and compare the Democratic Party to fake Jordans (40:59). Plus, constitutional law professor Caroline Mala Corbin joins to help make some sense of the landmark decision (43:39). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guest: Caroline Mala Corbin Producers: Trudy Joseph and Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more...

Jun 28, 20221 hr 35 min

Trouble in Texas and Drake’s Album Review

Van and Rachel react to the Texas GOP’s new platform suggesting secession (8:51), before discussing the mixed reaction to Drake’s new album in the new segment, "This Week in D**k-Riding" (25:19). Plus, Amazon's Alexa could be reaching beyond the grave (53:23). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Trudy Joseph and Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...

Jun 24, 20221 hr 18 min

DJ Akademiks’ Comments on Underage Dating, Plus Herschel Walker and Fatherhood

Van and Rachel dig into the resurfaced DJ Akademiks comments about sex, age, and college (16:34), before discussing the U.S. providing more aid to Ukraine (37:11) and Herschel Walker’s “secrets” coming to light (46:15). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producers: Trudy Joseph and Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 17, 20221 hr 12 min

Garcelle Beauvais on Persevering in Hollywood, Plus Revisiting the Isimemen Etute Case With Jarrett Hill

Van and Rachel react to Matt James revealing his frustrations surrounding his ‘Bachelor’ experience (15:05), before welcoming model, author and actress Garcelle Beauvais to discuss a career spanning almost 40 years (30:05). Plus, journalist and co-host of the ‘FANTI’ podcast Jarrett Hill joins to revisit the conversation around Isimemen Etute’s acquittal (1:15:25). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Guests: Garcelle Beauvais and Jarrett Hill Producers: Trudy Joseph and Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn...

Jun 14, 20221 hr 56 min
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