4 Friends & A Book Podcast

This week, we’re talking The Book of Harlan by Bernice L. McFadden and unpacking the themes of love, survival, identity, and generational pain that made this story unforgettable.We also get into redistricting, voter suppression, and the fight to protect the Black vote.Plus, Isaiah shares a rant about showing up as your full self and why shrinking yourself for others is never worth it.

We’re talking The Voice in My Head Is God by 2 Chainz, and yeah… we all didn’t love it. We get into what worked, what didn’t, and where we disagreed.Each of us also shares something y’all should be paying attention to right now.And Isaiah closes with a rant on the United Nations vote on slavery, and why the United States, being one of only three countries to vote against it matters.

In this episode, we unpack The Mother of Black Hollywood by Jenifer Lewis and her raw, unfiltered story of resilience, mental health, and making space for yourself in an industry that doesn’t always make room for you.We also react to the rising tensions surrounding the Iran war, what’s happening, what’s at stake, and why it matters beyond the headlines.And in The Rant, Isaiah celebrates extraordinary women, breaking down why giving women their flowers matters and what it really looks like to honor their impact.

This week, we unpack Black AF: The Unwhitewashed History of America and its bold, unfiltered take on the stories American textbooks leave out.We also react to the latest developments in the Jeffrey Epstein files, what’s new, what’s unsettling, and what it could mean moving forward.And in The Rant, Isaiah breaks down why honoring Black History Month still matters and what it should actually look like.

📚 Book Review: Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson We review Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson, unpacking its thriller twists, unreliable narration, and the ending that left us debating who deserves sympathy and accountability. 🔥 Hot Topic: ICE Murder: Renee Good We talk about the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, the national outrage, questions about use of force, and what this moment says about enforcement and accountability. 🎤 The Rant: Nicki Minaj United Nations Isaiah delivers a fiery rant questioning whether Nicki Minaj should have spoken at the United Nations and the implications of celebrity influence in global spaces.

📚 Book Review: Go Higher by Big SeanThis episode, we dig into Go Higher by Big Sean and talk through the themes of growth, discipline, and purpose. We reflect on what stood out, what challenged us, and how the message speaks to the season many of us are in.🔥 Hot Topic: Holiday PlansWe shift into a more personal conversation about our holiday plans. From how we’re spending time to how we’re closing out the year, it’s an honest look at navigating the holidays as adults with full lives.🎤 The Rant: Stop Waiting for the Perfect TimeIsaiah takes the mic for this week’s rant, speaking directly to the habit of waiting for ideal circumstances. He shares why progress often starts before things feel comfortable and why now is the right time to move.

📚 Book Review: 107 Days by Kamala HarrisWe break down Kamala Harris’ new book 107 Days and explore what she shares, what she sidesteps, and how her story connects to the political climate we’re living in right now. Honest reactions, key insights, and what this book means for voters heading into 2025.🔥 Hot Topic: Was the Government Shutdown Worth It?We take a deep look at the shutdown, the fallout, and the real impact on everyday Americans. From delayed checks to political posturing, we’re unpacking who actually paid the price and why the debate isn’t as simple as Washington makes it seem.🎤 The Rant: The Deal That Reopened the GovernmentThis week’s rant focuses on the messy agreement that reopened the government and why it might be one of the weakest compromises we’ve seen in years.Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YouTube:    / @4friendsandabook  4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.#KamalaHarris #107Days #GovernmentShutdown

📚 Book Review – Matriarch by Tina Knowles:A raw and inspiring look at Tina Knowles’ journey through family, faith, and finding her power beyond the spotlight.🔥 Hot Topic – Government Shutdown:As Washington stalls, everyday Americans are left paying the price for political power plays.🎤 The Rant – Honoring Assata Shakur:A bold tribute to Assata Shakur’s courage, resilience, and the unapologetic fight for freedom that still echoes today.Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YOUTUBE|  / @4friendsandabook  4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

We are back for Season 6 with your favorite 4 Friends. Join us as we catch up after our summer break and kick off the season with our reading list for season 6.THE RANT: Amanda Seals vs 20 Black ConservativesConnect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YOUTUBE |   / @4friendsandabook  #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube #bookclubdiscussion 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Juanita provides a powerful reminder of God's love for us and his longing for our love in return. Hear more about her book and her journey of becoming a published author here on 4 Friends & A Book Podcast.Pick up the book: https://www.thegreatembracing.com/Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YOUTUBE: ⁠   / @4friendsandabook  #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

We’re chatting with Paul M. Williams about crafting Bruce Edwards, a gripping story of crime, loyalty, and tough choices in Ohio’s underworld. Join us as we discuss this book and learn about Paul’s journey of writing this 5-book series.Pick up the book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/4friendsandabookFACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/4-Friends-A-...YOUTUBE | ⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHQu...#bookreviewers #indieauthor #bookrecommendation #blackauthors #bookpodcast #booktube4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Author Newton Vanriel joins the 4 Friends & A Book Podcast to discuss his inspiring children's book The Adventures of the Soul Sistas and share his journey as a writer. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about storytelling, purpose, and representation!Grab the book: https://www.soulsistasbook.ca/Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YOUTUBE |   ⁠   / @4friendsandabook   #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

After losing two children, Tiffany shares how she journeyed through grief, faith, and healing to find joy again. A powerful conversation you don’t want to miss. FROM GRIEF TO JOY: A motivational guide for mothers who have experienced pregnancy and infant losshttps://www.amazon.com/GRIEF-JOY-moti...Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YOUTUBE | ⁠⁠   / @4friendsandabook  ...#4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

We’re recapping the best moments from Season 5 of 4 Friends & A Book Podcast. From the books that stirred the pot to the takes that had us divided it’s all here.Laugh with us debate with us and find out which books made the biggest impact.Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:YOUTUBE| /@4friendsandabook INSTAGRAM | / 4friendsandabook FACEBOOK | / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599 #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube #shedeursanders #tariffs #tonimorrison 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

In this episode, we're diving into Toni Morrison’s Sula—a haunting tale of friendship, betrayal, and Black womanhood that still cuts deep today. We’re also unpacking the global crisis around Afrikan refugees and the rising tension over tariffs—because the personal is always political.THE RANT: 5th-round draft pick for Shedeur Sanders? Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:YouTube: / @4friendsandabook INSTAGRAM | / 4friendsandabook FACEBOOK | / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599 #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #booktok #bookpodcast #booktube #shedeursanders #tariffs #tonimorrison 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

We’re diving into Charlamagne tha God’s Get Honest or Die Lying—a bold call for truth, healing, and owning your story. But does the message land? Let’s talk about it.THE RANT: The Roast We Didn’t Ask For: ChatGPT vs. 4 FriendsConnect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM | / 4friendsandabook FACEBOOK | / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Join us as we unpack The Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. Plus is the US Economy in trouble?Hot Topic: US Economy THE RANT: Honoring Mayor LaRhonda PatrickConnect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook  FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599  YouTube: ⁠   / @4friendsandabook  #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #dei #bookpodcast #booktube 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Join us as we unpack Heavy by Kiese LaymanHot Topic: DEITHE RANT: Honoring Dr. Alvin ChapmanConnect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast:INSTAGRAM | / 4friendsandabook FACEBOOK | / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599 YouTube: / @4friendsandabook #4friendsandabookpodcast#bookreviewers#2025reading#bookrecommendation#bookclubreads#dei#bookpodcast#booktube 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Join us as we unpack Adversity for Sale by Jay Jenkins Hot Topic: The state of rap music in 2025 THE RANT: Nurse charges with abusing newborn babies at Virginia hospital Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast YouTube: ⁠   / @4friendsandabook   #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2025reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #youngjeezy #bookpodcast 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review The Fire Next Time, by the late civil rights activist and writer James Baldwin Hot Topic: Favorite Christmas Moments THE RANT: Chayla Kendall battle with the Georgia Dream Lender Program SUBSCRIBE HERE:    / @4friendsandabook   Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast: INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook   FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599   #bookreviewers #2024reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #jamesbaldwin #bookpodcast 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review I Take My Coffee Black, by musician, actor, and activist Tyler Merritt Hot Topic: 2024 U.S. Presidential Election THE RANT: Self-Care Matters SUBSCRIBE HERE:    / @4friendsandabook   Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast: INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook   FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599   4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review the reimaged story from the classic novel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, that is now told from the perspective of Jim. Hot Topic: 2024 Presidential Election Fatigue, Misinformation, and Digital Media THE RANT: Missouri executes Marcellus Williams despite new evidence SUBSCRIBE HERE:    / @4friendsandabook   Connect with 4 Friends & A Book Podcast: INSTAGRAM |   / 4friendsandabook   FACEBOOK |   / 4-friends-a-book-104994371734599   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...#4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreviewers #2024reading #bookrecommendation #bookclubreads #percivaleverett #historicalfictionbooks #bookclubdiscussion #marcelluswilliams 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Join us as we catch up, share our summer reading list, and discuss topics/events that occurred during our summer break. The Rant: All You Need Is You... 4 Friends Summer Reading List: 1) Bits and Pieces - Whoopi Goldberg 2) The Moment - Bakari Sellers 3) Managing Leadership Anxiety - Steve Cuss 4) Black AF History - Michael Harriot 5) The House of Eve - Sadeqa Johnson 6) Rogue Justice - Stacey Abrams

Join us as we relive some of our favorite moments and books from Season 4 of 4 Friends & A Book podcast. 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review the historical fiction novel Yellow Wife by award-winning author Sadeqa Johnson. Hot Topic: New opportunities in Women's Basketball THE RANT: Uber driver Loletha Hall was shot and killed by an. 81-year-old man.

Join us as we journey toward balance with Toure Roberts' new book, Balance. THE RANT: Nakala Murray custody battle after police shoot her son. 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community. ⁠#4friendsandabookpodcast⁠ ⁠#bookreview⁠ ⁠#2024reading⁠ ⁠#bookclub⁠ ⁠#toureroberts⁠ ⁠#balance⁠ ⁠#nakalamurry⁠ ⁠#policeshooting⁠

4 Friends learn about the legendary actress Cicely Tyson in her memoir, Just As I Am. THE RANT: Women's History Month spotlight of Mrs. Gloria Reid. #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreview #2024reading

Join the conversation on Black mental health with Dr. Rheeda Walker, as we discuss her book 'The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health.' #4friendsandabookpodcast #blackmentalhealth #mentalhealth

4 Friends discover the truth of HeLa in, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. We also discuss the state of California putting forth the nation's first bill to address reparation for Black Americans. The Rant: Black History celebration of African American Lawyer, Eunice Carter. #4friendsandabookpodcast #bookreview #henriettalacks #2024reading #bookclub #HeLaCells #medicalresearch #imformedconsent #reparations #eunicecarter #blackhistory

4 Friends kick off the new year with topics on mental health and practical steps to ensure mental wellness. THE RANT: Medical negligence of former US Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson. 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends reviews the highly anticipated memoir Worthy, by Jada Pinkett Smith. THE RANT: The evolution of Andre 3000 and his flute album. #4friendsandabookpodcast #jadapinkettsmith #worthy #bookclub #redtabletalk #willsmith #2023reading #2pac #autobiography #andre3000 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

Join us as we relive some of our favorite moments and books from Season 3 of 4 Friends & A Book podcast. 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review the historical fiction, The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. We also have a discussion on the legal actions currently being taken against the Fearless Fund Grant, which provides venture capital funding for women of color. The Rant: Johnny Hollman's death after taser encounter with Atlanta Police Officer.

Join us as we review Born A Crime by Trevor Noah while also having a conversation about the latest hot topics. THE RANT: Leonard Mack Wrongfully Convicted 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community. #4friendsandabookpodcast #bornacrime #trevornoah #southafrica #apartheid #therant #wrongfullyconvicted

Join us as we review Marriage Be Hard, by Kevin and Melissa Fredericks, while also have a conversation about dating & singleness. THE RANT: Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community. #4friendsandabookpodcast #marriagebehard #kevonstage #marriage #relationshipadvice #dating #singleness #therant #affirmativeaction

4 Friends reviews Before I Let Go, by Kennedy Ryan and discusses some of bills being brought forward by Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis. THE RANT: Jordan Neely loss of life on New York Subway SUBSCRIBE to YouTube: https://youtu.be/pl6rPy9AWrc 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends peel back the layers of American History with reading The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones. We also have a discussion on the recent expulsion & reinstatement of Justin Jones and Justin Pearson at the Tennesse State House of Representatives. The Rant: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas #4friendsandabookpodcast #the1619project #nikolehannahjones 4 Friends and A Book podcast centers discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between. We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture. Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends review Between the World and Me, by Ta-Nehisi Coates, and explore the topic of racial identity.  THE RANT:  Angela Bassett's 2023 Oscar lost for Best Supporting Actress.  #4friendsandabookpodcast #tanehisicoates #betweentheworldandme #racialidentity #oscars2023 #angelabassett     4 Friends and A Book podcast center discussions on books, life experiences, and a little bit of everything else in between.  We have organic conversations which flow naturally from the book at hand, through the writer's journey, and of course, the impact it has on the culture.  Our mission is to bring inspiration and reinforce the joys of literacy within our community.

4 Friends celebrate Black History Month and discuss its relevancy today while also reviewing The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama.  THE RANT:  Tyre Nichols #4friendsandabookpodcast #thelightwecarry #michelleobama

4 Friends & A Book kicks off 2023 with a mental health check-in, while celebrating author, activist, civil rights leader, and wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, with her memoir entitled, My Life, My Love, My Legacy. #4friendsandabookpodcast #corettascottking #mylifemylovemylegacy

4 Friends preparing for the Christmas holiday while reading the historical fiction, The Vanishing Half, by Brit Bennett.

4 Friends & A Book is back with our Season 3 opener to discuss the new memoir by Viola Davis entitled, Finding Me, while also touching on the topic of colorism.

4 Friends analyze the legal thriller, While Justice Sleeps, by American politician, lawyer, and author Stacey Abrams.

Join us as we review Zora Neale Hurston most famed novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, followed by a conversation on the US Supreme Court recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

4 Friends examine the book, Heads of the Colored People, by Nafissa Thompson-Spires and have conversation on 2nd amendment rights & gun control within the United States.

We are having Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson and celebrating 1 year of 4 Friends & A Book Podcast.

Margrett Upshaw shares her experience with infertility and how it led to writing her first book, Expecting With An Empty Womb.

4 Friends unpack the book, How the Word is Passed, by Clint Smith and share our thoughts on the appointment of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Tune in for a conversation with Sharina Harris, as she details her journey of following her dreams to become a published author.

4 Friends dive into the book, The Conversation by Hill Harper, and have our own conversation about relationships, sex, finances, and establishing better communication.