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In a media landscape increasingly fractured by algorithmic echo chambers and unverified viral reporting, establishing a shared baseline of facts has become one of the greatest challenges facing modern American democracy. In this episode of We Vote Too, host Leise Winny sits down with award-winning journalist Taryn Finley. Together, they dissect the mechanics of modern misinformation.This episode pulls back the curtain on how fragmented information ecosystems distort public perception, erode institutional trust, and directly compromise the voting electorate's ability to protect their democracy through a unified reality. Connect with our guest:Taryn Finley: Culture Writer & EditorAbout the Show:We Vote Too is dedicated to exploring how the changing landscape of mass communication impacts our democracy and our vote.Subscribe & Follow:Don't forget to rate and review us right here on Spotify, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!

Welcome back to another raw and highly unfiltered episode of the SIDEBAR PODCAST, steered this week by your lead host, Royce, alongside co-host Leise Winny. The crew kicks off the session with a chaotic look at the modern news cycle, tackling everything from ongoing global conflicts and internet-age debates to the absolute madness of digital echo chambers. They zero in on the sheer absurdity of recent viral confusion regarding Sauce Gardner's actual age, the nuances of being at varying levels of "wrong" online, and a quick breakdown of House of the Dragon season metrics. Things get hilarious as they unpack Beyoncé’s new Cécred grooming campaign targeting men’s hair care, the viral sport of hobbyhorsing being deemed peak "white people culture," and the rise of the internet's infamous "Gooner Gang." From there, the conversation transitions into a profound philosophical exploration of destiny before turning to Devale Ellis's viral TikTok commentary on the realities and expectations of monogamy in modern relationships. Finally, they address the deep hypocrisy behind cancel culture, discussing how everyday folks get permanently cut off while the wealthy and famous get served immediate redemption arcs, wrapping up the show with a direct, grounded breakdown of whether success is truly measured by a dollar sign. Here is the breakdown of what the crew dives into this week:Opening welcome: Setting the stage and building the weekly energy.War Still Going?: Checking the pulse on major global headlines and public desensitization.Are people really that dumb?: How Sauce Gardner's real age had the internet in an absolute chokehold. Levels of wrongness: A hilarious look into how you can be factually wrong, but somehow also more wrong.House of the Dragon: Quick thoughts on the hit fantasy series.Bey is selling Cécred to men now: Reacting to the brand's new marketing pivot toward men's grooming. Hobbyhorsing is Wyte Ppl’s Culture: Breaking down the viral, competitive broomstick-horse phenomenon.Gooner Gang: Unpacking the latest dark, brain-rotting corner of internet subculture.Do You Believe We Have Free Will or Not?: Is personal choice a real thing, or is it just a comfortable illusion?The impact of agency: How the concept of free will alters our understanding of morals, love, and true creativity.Forced Monogamy: Reacting to Devale Ellis's viral TikTok thoughts on relationship expectations versus reality. Hypocrisy of Cutting Ppl Off & Redemption for the Famous: Why accountability rules apply to normal people but change for celebrities.Is success money?: Stripping away financial metrics to define what a successful life actually looks like.

Welcome back to another raw, unfiltered episode of the h SIDEBAR PODCAST, hosted by your lead, Royce, alongside co-host Leise Winny. This week, the crew kicks off with a massive check-in covering everything from preference culture and the validity of lived experience over textbooks to the internet drama surrounding Latto, the rising cost of World Cup seats, and the historic New York Knicks championship victory. From there, the conversation shifts into deeper territory as the hosts unpack modern relationship standards, a disturbing rise in cross-cultural friction, the laziness of reliance on AI branding tools, and the frustrating double standards targeted directly at Black women's sexual autonomy in the media.Here is what went down on this week's episode:What is a plus-size woman/big gurl, and do men actually like big women?Why having kids is a much harder, more permanent life choice than marriage.The online flak surrounding Latto following her massive pregnancy reveal and the messy Fivio Foreign drama.Lived Experience vs. Expertise: Who holds the ultimate authority on truth?Identity check: Who can be Black, and are mixed-race people fully considered Black in modern culture?The New York Knicks WIN: Celebrating an epic, historic NBA Championship victory.The ticket crisis: The insane demand and wild pricing behind securing World Cup seats.High Body Counts & Modern Women: Is total sexual transparency empowerment or a literal relationship killer?Friction in solidarity: Asian Hate is rising again—why do communities of color struggle to get along?AI vs. Authenticity: Dissecting The Blerd Explorer's viral take on why using ChatGPT for your business logo is fundamentally lazy.The double standard: Why do people do Megan Thee Stallion like that, and why are other races allowed to be openly sexual while Black women get relentlessly vilified for it?Final sign-off: The crew’s closing thoughts, rapid-fire recaps, and final remarks.

No one actually calls Maryland "the middle" of America, but both geographically and politically, it sits right in the thick of a high-stakes tug-of-war. Being positioned directly in the shadow of Washington, D.C., means federal politics doesn't just influence the state—it directly reshapes it. On today's episode of We Vote Too, we look at the social commentary and political forces that drive people to vote or keep them from the polls. We're joined by political strategist Karen Darkes, Executive Director of the Maryland Democratic Party, right in the middle of a major primary season and fresh off the party's Fight Back Gala. We dive deep into the psychology of the modern voter, exploring how the party targets voters in a traditionally blue state where an increasing number of people are ditching party lines to register as independent or unaffiliated. Karen breaks down the strategy gaps on the ground, what this shifting electorate means for the future of Governor Wes Moore’s upcoming re-election, and whether political campaigns are actually using social media correctly or just screaming into the digital void.Episode Timestamps:0:05 - Disclaimer0:25 - Episode Intro0:57 - Intro Music1:17 - Monologue: The State of Voting Rights in America11:49 - Interview: The Inner Workings of the MD Democratic Party16:52 - Interview: Voter Strategy & Targeting in a Blue State21:55 - Interview: The Rise of Unaffiliated & Independent Voters26:58 - Interview: Looking Ahead to Governor Wes Moore's Re-election32:01 - Interview: How Politicians are Utilizing Social Media35:04 - Outro

Who decides the rules of modern masculinity, and why does it feel like everyone is policing each other's lives? This episode breaks down the cultural boundaries we place on men, the shifting dynamics of relationships when finances change, and why we’ve collectively elevated celebrities to the status of modern deities.We also dive deep into the ultimate double standard: why do we always demand absolute accountability for other people's actions, but ask for complete grace based on our own "good intentions"? From the battle between lived experience and actual expertise to the simple power of admitting when you're wrong, we are unpacking the unspoken social contracts dictating how we live, work, and relate to one another today.Featured TopicsOpening BreakdownOpening Welcome: Setting the stage for today's cultural deep dive.Drake Clarity: Assessing the latest updates, industry metrics, and where the culture stands.Knicks Win: Quick reactions to the latest victory on the court.Is Trump Sleeping More?: A look at the latest viral political observations.Voting Rights Still Under Attack: The ongoing legislative and grassroots battles for the ballot.The Income Stress Gap: Unpacking new studies showing men's stress levels when women earn more in a relationship.Lived Experience vs. Expertise: Where do the limits of personal perspective end and true institutional expertise begin?Busy vs. Checking-In: Redefining connection in a world obsessed with grind culture.

We back! The crew hits the ground running with a packed episode that kicks off with a chaotic opening welcome before diving straight into a whirlwind of pop culture, sports, and headline-grabbing news. We touch on everything from Jay-Z linking up at The Roots and Drake shattering yet another record, to the latest Knicks vs. Spurs matchup and the swirling Jaxon Dart / Abdul Carter controversy. Plus, we get into the rumors surrounding a Trump slush fund, the fallout from the Kevin Hart roast, and a wild historical deep dive into the original translations of the Bible.Later in the show, Royce takes the lead to tackle how the internet has completely gamified modern dating, arguing that Black culture has become both overexposed and deeply misunderstood online. We unpack how social media relationship discourse forces men into a narrow box of "acceptable" responses, turns real-life romance into rigid, theoretical ideas, and fuels an endless cycle of online panels debating what "masculine energy" is supposed to look like. Finally, Leise closes out the episode by bringing a heavy philosophical question to the table for the digital age, breaking down the fine line between being self-sufficient and being entirely alone.Opening WelcomeJay-Z at The Roots & Drake's Latest RecordKnicks vs. Spurs MatchupSinners Universal HalloweenThe Trump Slush Fund RumorsThe Jaxon Dart & Abdul Carter ControversyThe Kevin Hart RoastHistorical Biblical Translations Regarding "Sexual Perverts"How Online Discourse Gamifies Relationships & Demands "Masculine Energy"The Freedom Trap: “When did individualism stop being freedom and start becoming isolation?”Follow, rate, and share the podcast! Let us know your thoughts on today's topics in the Spotify Q&A below.

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Royce ask a simple question with complicated answers:Who are the real ones anymore?The episode opens with global politics, internet culture, and identity all colliding at once. From conversations around political corruption and the optics of the Trump–China trip, to asking whether Drake is actually back, the hosts break down how performance, branding, and perception shape modern culture.Things quickly spiral into classic Sidebar territory with a hilarious but painfully real conversation about Black men on vacation attire, bigger men at the beach or pool, and why some people transform into yacht influencers the second they leave the country.The hosts also tackle a growing cultural frustration:Can we stop inviting everybody to the proverbial Black picnic?The conversation dives into “honorary Black people,” cultural boundaries, identity, and why some communities struggle to protect spaces without feeling guilty about it.Royce leads the second segment with one of the episode’s deepest conversations:“Vulnerability today is harder than sex.”In a world driven by hookup culture, attraction often starts and ends with appearances. The hosts unpack emotional unavailability, surface-level dating, and the idea that some people are beautiful physically but impossible to truly connect with emotionally — like their personality is behind a paywall.Leise shifts the conversation into a broader social critique:Why do we victim-blame before we critique society itself?Using viral stories and public reactions, the discussion explores the “fast girl” narrative, public shame, and society’s tendency to punish individuals while ignoring the systems that shape behavior in the first place.Royce then zooms out philosophically with a conversation about belief:“Adults call it belief because imagination is for kids.”From religion and manifestation to conspiracy theories and dating expectations, the hosts unpack how adults build entire identities around things they choose to believe — whether those beliefs are healthy, comforting, or dangerous.Leise closes the episode with a simple but powerful reminder:“It’s OK to be Black.”The final segment reflects on identity, self-acceptance, cultural pride, and the pressure many Black people feel to constantly explain themselves, soften themselves, or make others comfortable.Funny, layered, chaotic, and honest — The Real Ones is about authenticity in a world built on performance.Political corruption & the Trump–China tripIs Drake back?Black men on vacation culture“Honorary Black people” discourseVulnerability Today Is Harder Than SexHookup culture & emotional disconnectAttraction vs emotional intimacyPaying to “download” personalityVictim-Blaming & SocietyThe “fast girl” narrativeViral outrage & public judgmentSystems vs individualsBelief vs RealityReligion, manifestation & conspiracy cultureWhy adults cling to belief systemsIt’s OK to Be BlackIdentity & authenticityCultural pride & self-acceptance

Fear has always been a powerful political tool — but in today’s media environment, it feels constant. Fear of crime. Fear of immigrants. Fear of losing democracy. Fear of “the other side.” Fear is everywhere. But what is all of this fear actually doing to us psychologically? And why does it work so well politically?In Episode 4 of We Vote Too, we go beyond outrage and ask a deeper question: What happens to people when fear becomes the foundation of political communication?Joining us is Bob Martin — former trial attorney during Miami’s infamous Cocaine Cowboy era, now a social worker, meditation teacher, wellness professor, and host of the Wise and Happy Life Podcast. Bob brings a rare perspective that blends psychology, neuroscience, Taoist philosophy, and lived experience to unpack how fear shapes how people think, react, vote, and engage with the world around them.Together, we explore:Why fear-based messaging is so effectiveHow media and politics reinforce emotional conditioningThe psychological impact of outrage cyclesWhy anxious populations are easier to influenceHow fear shapes political identity and polarizationAnd what people can do to stay informed without being emotionally consumedThis conversation isn’t about telling people what to think politically. It’s about understanding the emotional machinery underneath modern politics — and how to navigate it consciously.Because fear doesn’t just influence elections. It influences people.

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Royce bounce between politics, culture, aging, survival mode, and the emotional games people play — all with the kind of humor and uncomfortable honesty that makes Sidebar feel like a group chat that accidentally became therapy.The episode opens with a Mother’s Day check-in before shifting into growing concern around the hantavirus outbreak and how quickly fear spreads in the age of social media. From there, the conversation turns personal and cultural: can people age out of relevance, ambition, or even certain lifestyles? Or are we all just pretending we aren’t afraid of getting older?The discussion then pivots into deeper territory, with conversations about voting rights under attack, the controversial “catch print” trend, and whether modern culture is pushing people toward performance over authenticity.One of the most reflective parts of the episode explores a growing reality for a lot of people:Are people actually living anymore… or just surviving?The hosts unpack burnout, emotional exhaustion, and how adulthood can quietly slip into maintenance mode rather than fulfillment.Leise leads a sharp conversation about relationships, legacy, and responsibility with the segment “Watch How You Procreate,” challenging people to think more critically about who they build futures with and the emotional consequences that can follow.The episode closes with two-layered discussions: emotional gerrymandering — the manipulation of emotions, narratives, and boundaries in relationships and society — and the difficult topic of self-hating Blackness, identity, and internalized bias within the community.Funny, reflective, chaotic, and brutally honest — 2.0 feels like trying to reboot yourself while the world glitches around you.0:33 — Happy Mother’s Day2:37 — Hantavirus concerns12:35 — Can you get too old?15:20 — Voting rights under attack24:33 — Catch print: bad or good?36:25 — People don’t live, they just survive42:00 — Watch how you procreate1:00:49 — Emotional gerrymandering1:10:36 — Self-hating Black people1:33:15 — OutroSurvival vs living.Growth vs stagnation.Reality vs performance.Welcome to 2.0.

This week, Leise and Royce jump from the glamour of the Met Gala to the chaos of internet culture, politics, identity, and healing — all in one unfiltered conversation.They break down the biggest moments from Beyoncé and the MET, react to conversations around strip clubs shutting down, and unpack updates from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Then the conversation shifts deeper into voting rights, the feeling that “the spirit died” in culture, and why people still casually use “gay” as an insult in 2026.The episode also dives into reactions surrounding Ray J and Cam’ron’s interview, whether society gives Michael Jackson too much grace, and a brutally honest discussion about whether people actually heal — or just learn how to rebrand their trauma.Later, Leise and Royce discuss the controversy surrounding Dr. Cheyenne Bryant and the ongoing online conversations about credentials, accountability, and expertise in the self-help era.Funny, messy, serious, and painfully real — this episode moves from celebrity culture to personal growth without losing the humor in between.Topics Include:Beyoncé & the METStrip clubs are shutting downWHCD updatesVoting rights“The spirit died” conversation“Gay” used as an insultRay J & Cam’ron interview reactionsDo we give Michael Jackson too much grace?Do people actually heal?Dr. Cheyenne Bryant's controversy

Built the Movement. Did It Build Power? | ft. Deric GilliardDid the Civil Rights Movement actually redistribute power in America — or just expand access without changing who holds it?In this episode of We Vote Too, we sit down with author, historian, and former federal advisor Deric Gilliard to break down the real impact of the Civil Rights Movement and what it means for democracy today.From the Freedom Riders to federal policy, this conversation connects history to the present — exploring how movements shape institutions, and whether those institutions truly serve the people.

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Royce move through culture, politics, and identity with their signature mix of humor and real talk — all from a Black millennial POV that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable questions.Leise opens the show with a wide-ranging check-in that jumps from war updates to sports and entertainment. From the NFL Draft, to LeBron and the Lakers, to ongoing conversations around Stefon Diggs, the episode blends headlines with hot takes. Leise leads a powerful and layered segment on Black women and the “ride or die” myth, unpacking the pressure to stay loyal at all costs — even when it becomes dangerous. That naturally opens the door to one of the most complex cultural debates: the N-word. Who can say it? Should it still be used at all? And how has Gen Z reshaped its meaning — from something rooted in history to something that’s often used casually or performatively?Royce brings his perspective into the mix, pushing the conversation toward how culture, perception, and personal responsibility collide in real time.The final major segment tackles a conversation that continues to spark debate: Black people and conservative views. Using recent backlash toward KevOnStage as a jumping-off point, the hosts explore how political and social beliefs are policed within the community — and what happens when someone steps outside expected norms, especially around topics like sexuality and identity.The episode closes with a recap and final reflections that tie everything together — culture, accountability, identity, and the constant negotiation between personal belief and public expectation.

The Sidebar Podcast — Accountability WarsThis week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce step into one of the messiest conversations out right now: accountability — who gets it, who avoids it, and who decides?The episode opens with a rapid-fire mix of headlines and cultural moments — from global tension over the Strait of Hormuz to political absurdity to the question nobody asked but we’re asking anyway: does everyone need a Cardi-style haircare line? It all lands on a sobering story about loneliness in the digital age, where an older man loses his savings to an AI scam — setting the tone for a bigger question about vulnerability, connection, and responsibility.From there, Royce leads a sharp breakdown of what he calls the accountability gap. We constantly hear about men being held accountable — but is that standard applied equally? The conversation digs into how trauma doesn’t pick sides, but sympathy often does, and how public narratives shape who gets grace and who gets judgment.Leise takes the conversation deeper — and more uncomfortable — by challenging the foundation of marriage itself. Was it built with equality in mind, or control? The discussion weaves through modern relationship expectations, delusion vs. reality, and real-world cases that highlight how power, gender, and violence intersect in devastating ways.Royce closes by pulling the lens back to the culture: internet justice vs. real-life action. Why are people quicker to go live than to go talk? When did accountability become content? And what happens when real problems get turned into performative moments for an audience instead of being handled offline?It’s layered, it’s uncomfortable, and it doesn’t pick a side — it forces you to question all of them.Opening welcome & cultural check-inStrait of Hormuz tensionsPolitical absurdity & public figuresDo we really need another celebrity product line?Loneliness, AI scams & vulnerabilityThe Accountability Gap (Royce)Who gets held accountable — and who doesn’tSympathy vs. responsibilityMarriage, Power & Reality (Leise)Was marriage built for equality?Gender expectations vs. lived realityWhen relationships turn dangerousInternet Justice vs. Real Life (Royce)Turning problems into contentAvoiding confrontation in real lifeAccountability vs. performanceMen vs. women. Accountability vs. excuses.Real life vs. the internet.Pick your side — or question all of them.

What happens when the systems designed to support global stability quietly fade into the background—or worse, get ignored altogether? In this episode of We Vote Too, host Leise Winny sits down with Clifford Brown, a retired Senior U.S. Foreign Service Officer and author of Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance, to unpack the role the U.S. Agency for International Development actually plays in the world—and why most Americans don’t think about it until it’s too late.From his early days working on tugboats and traveling through Latin America during moments of political upheaval, to leading U.S. development missions in West Africa, Clifford brings decades of firsthand experience to a conversation that feels more urgent than ever. Together, we explore how foreign aid connects directly to U.S. national interests, what happens when that support is reduced or politicized, and why development work is often misunderstood at home.This episode challenges the idea that foreign aid is optional—and instead reframes it as a critical tool for global stability, diplomacy, and long-term peace. Because when we “forget” about institutions like USAID, the consequences don’t stay overseas—they come back home.🎧 Listen to We Vote Too on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Amazon.Follow Leise Winny @Leisewinny on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads, and @MapsMedia on YouTube

This episode is a wild ride through culture, contradictions, and the conversations people want to have but don’t always say out loud. Leise and Royce kick things off, unpacking everything from the Offset shooting headlines to the bigger question—are we being told the truth about global conflicts, or just the version we’re meant to hear? From there, they dive headfirst into the internet’s latest linguistic chaos (“you da birthday”??), questioning whether slang is evolving… or just losing meaning altogether.They also touch on viral moments, including commentary from DJ Akademiks criticizing Gucci Mane, sparking a conversation about respect, street politics, and public perception.And yes—they even take it to space. With Artemis II on the horizon, they ask the real question: are we actually excited about space exploration, or just distracted?Leise and Royce wrap it all up with final thoughts, revisiting the biggest takeaways and leaving listeners with one lingering question: are we actually evolving—or just getting louder about the same issues?

10m:55s ***SKIP TO THE GOOD PART: INTERVIEW STARTS***The word "fascist" is everywhere right now — on the news, on your timeline, in the group chat where nobody asked. But what does it actually mean? And are we just emotionally freestyling with historical terminology? Season 2 of We Vote Too is back — and this time we're not pulling punches. In this episode, host Michael Trapani breaks down the real history of fascism, how it took root in Germany step by step through a democracy, and what that pattern looks like when you compare it to right now: the language, the enforcement machine, the laws quietly limiting who gets to vote, and the bill that just rewrote the rulebook. This isn't a lecture. It's a conversation — sharp, honest, and a little bit funny. Because understanding where we are starts with knowing where we've been. We also sit down with author and historian Michael Troppani, who literally wrote a book on how wars begin, which feels like exactly the right person to have on the phone right now. We Vote Too—season 2. Let's get into it.

New Episodes dropping on 4/6/2026

Rich Laugh (Episode 13)This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce take a wild ride through pop culture, politics, internet behavior, and the uncomfortable truths people don’t like to say out loud.The episode kicks off with a mix of headlines and hot takes — from Michael B. Jordan’s Oscar win to the never-ending comparison of Usher vs. Justin Bieber, before spiraling into one of the internet’s most ridiculous claims: who really “created” slavery? From there, the conversation moves into dating dynamics, viral takes on attraction, and why confidence doesn’t always match reality.Things get sharper when the discussion turns to politics — including whether Trump can actually keep secrets, the tension between political leadership, and rising global concerns as the U.S. increases its presence in the Middle East amid threats tied to Iran. It’s heavy, but still delivered with Sidebar humor.Midway through, Royce breaks down a core theme of the episode: the internet is not real life. The hosts unpack how social media rewards the loudest, most extreme takes — even when those opinions would never survive in real-world conversation. From gender expectations to performative outrage, it becomes clear that engagement has replaced truth.Leise then takes the conversation into deeper territory with a discussion inspired by EJ Johnson’s views, exploring identity, attraction, and the evolving conversations around gender and relationships. It’s nuanced, uncomfortable, and honest — exactly how Sidebar likes it.The second half of the show leans into culture and community — including the unspoken rules of friendship, presentation, and the pressure of always being “on.” From the bonnet paradox to curated lifestyles, the hosts question whether people are actually living… or just performing.Finally, the episode closes on relationships and accountability: when cheating happens, are we blaming the wrong person? Should people be held legally accountable for infidelity? And is the “other person” always guilty?It’s funny, chaotic, and layered — a mix of serious conversations and ridiculous takes that somehow all connect.APPROXIMATE TIMESTAMPS0:00 — Show disclosure0:10 — Intro music0:52 — Show starts1:10 — Michael B. Jordan wins Oscar6:20 — Usher vs. Justin Bieber11:40 — “Black people created slavery” take17:10 — Height doesn’t mean play (dating & perception)22:30 — Trump can’t keep secrets/leadership chaos28:10 — Iran, U.S. Marines & global tension34:00 — Internet opinions don’t exist in real life41:30 — Saying things online you’d never say in person48:20 — What men “can’t” do & performative masculinity55:10 — EJ Johnson views & identity conversation1:03:20 — Attraction, gender & uncomfortable questions1:11:30 — Don’t embarrass us in front of outsiders1:17:40 — The bonnet paradox, baby hair & presentation1:23:30 — Are we living or just hosting life?1:29:40 — Blame in cheating — wrong person?1:35:10 — Suing for infidelity & accountability1:40:20 — Can the side person be innocent?1:44:30 — Final thoughts & quick recapOutro — End of show

What does it really mean to call someone a hypocrite — and are we all guilty of it?This week on The Side Bar Podcast, Leise and Royce get into the contradictions people love to ignore… especially when it benefits them. From personal accountability to politics, propaganda, and perception — nothing is off limits.We talk about whether people can actually change, why we keep comparing different eras like they’re equal, and how narratives get shaped depending on who’s telling the story. From boycott debates to the SAVE Act, to the way “safety” gets used as a gatekeeping tool — this episode really asks: are you thinking for yourself, or just picking sides?And of course… we had to get into that perceived innocence conversation.Yeah. That one.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro music0:30 – Opening0:50 – “I speak hypocrite…”3:04 – Can people really change?4:45 – Should we still be comparing different eras?15:21 – Using propaganda when it fits your narrative21:50 – The Target boycott drama31:54 – Use your own brain — seriously38:11 – The SAVE Act48:55 – “Safety” as a tool for exclusion51:11 – “God don’t play about me” people1:12:49 – Why do white men get perceived as innocent?1:13:54 – Movies are doing a lot for no reason1:25:26 – Outro

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce move from local culture to national dysfunction with one central idea: discernment is survival.The episode opens by pushing back against the lazy idea that Baltimore begins and ends with The Wire, before diving into accents across Baltimore and the DMV, Black speech, and the way identity gets heard before it’s understood. From there, the conversation spirals into bigger questions: Are we living in a cult? Are we already at war? And why do people keep dressing dysfunction up as depth?The middle of the episode gets sharper, tackling Trump’s name in the files, the repeated disappointment Black women face in America, and the reality that capitalism keeps presenting itself as the final boss in every conversation.By the end, the discussion turns inward — to work, gender, leadership, and the exhausting performance of modern life. Are men natural leaders, or just socialized to think they are? Are jobs just renting your personality? And why does discernment feel more necessary than ever when everything is trying to sell itself as truth?Funny, blunt, observant, and a little chaotic — classic Sidebar.0:00 — Show snippet0:30 — Show disclosure0:38 — Show music1:04 — Intro1:30 — Baltimore is more than The Wire9:59 — Accents in Baltimore & the DMV10:57 — Black accents14:00 — Beyhive is in a cult16:34 — We are at war20:40 — Weird is really just weird23:20 — Trump in those files28:30 — Black women keep getting disappointed by America50:00 — America is capitalism’s final boss1:22:20 — Jobs are renting your personality1:30:00 — Discernment is key1:36:01 — Are men natural leaders?1:52:00 — Potlucks are nastyOutro — End of show

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce bounce between culture, dating, internet behavior, and the strange ways modern life turns people into “products.”The episode opens with Royce setting the tone before the conversation dives straight into everyday awkwardness — like random hair compliments from strangers and the unspoken rules of posting relationships online. From there, the discussion moves into dating economics, the rising cost of simply going out, and whether the body positivity movement has helped or complicated how people see themselves.Things get more chaotic when the crew reviews McDonald’s menu items, revisits the absolutely wild era of America’s Next Top Model, and reflects on why the 2000s cultural moment still feels unmatched.The second half shifts gears into bigger conversations: survival mode vs. laziness, global tensions involving Iran, and the “Humpty Dumpty effect” — what happens when public figures or ideas fall apart and can’t be put back together.By the end, the hosts land on a blunt conclusion: sometimes the culture moves forward only when people start calling things out directly.Funny, chaotic, and brutally honest — classic Sidebar energy.0:35 — Royce intro2:34 — White people giving hair compliments unprovoked3:55 — Do big girls have to hide their men online?12:47 — Do dates cost too much now?16:33 — McDonald’s product review21:55 — Body positivity movement: good or bad?31:21 — When survival mode looks like laziness36:20 — America’s Next Top Model was unhinged42:37 — The 2000s cultural era really was different46:37 — Iran war discussion1:08:00 — The “Humpty Dumpty effect.”1:25:25 — We gotta start calling people out1:35:26 — Outro

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce sit down with William Honablew Jr., Business Consultant, for a sharp, layered conversation about capitalism, leadership, culture, and power.From understanding business ownership in Black communities to navigating influence, distraction, and the consequences of “winning,” this episode connects entrepreneurship with identity, accountability, and cultural politics.Is capitalism the path to leadership — or just another hierarchy?Should cultural figures be called out for their behavior?Who controls access to power?And what does it really cost to win?It’s business… but it’s also bigger than business.4:20 — William Honablew Jr. introduction5:12 — Why is it important for Black people to understand how to run a business?10:30 — Should we call out 50 Cent for his behavior?14:30 — Looking for leadership through capitalism19:13 — Who can say the N-word?26:02 — What is a martyr?32:35 — Keeping people out & using power strategically34:15 — Entertainment or distraction?39:08 — How marketing changed the game49:48 — Platonic friendships — real or not?1:00:55 — Being honest: hero vs. villain1:13:18 — The consequences of winning1:20:30 — William’s business info & closing

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce spiral from vacation energy to death, religion, cereal psychology, and modern relationships — because of course they do.After thanking recent guests, Royce recaps his vacation and explains why he might be too royal for Carnival. The conversation shifts into a Black History Month reflection — including the loss of Rev. Jesse Jackson — and whether the reaper has been working overtime.From there, the episode gets loud. Uncle Luke for Congress? Country halftime shows? Brandy’s national anthem performance? Is All-Star Weekend officially dead? Nothing is safe.The second half goes deeper: who’s actually more emotional — men or women? Are we all just performing our lives for the internet? Is homeownership still the American dream? Why do modern relationships feel broken? And what does it mean when you keep picking “Froot Loops” instead of substance?It ends with an unexpected dive into Kellogg’s history, religion, death, and why maybe — just maybe — we’re all a little remedial when it comes to what we choose.Funny. Honest. Slightly unhinged. Classic Sidebar.0:53 — Intro1:15 — Thank you to our guests2:00 — Royce’s vacation recap (too royal for Carnival?)6:03 — Black History Month fact & Rev. Jesse Jackson7:17 — Is the reaper skipping houses?10:36 — “Don’t Stop Get It Get It” — Uncle Luke for Congress15:04 — Country halftime show artists need to be stopped17:56 — Was Brandy’s national anthem bad?26:00 — Is All-Star Weekend dead?42:02 — Who’s more emotional: men or women?50:58 — Performance living56:00 — Is owning a home still the goal?1:07:00 — Modern relationships suck1:17:41 — Stop picking Froot people1:21:00 — Kellogg’s backstory1:26:00 — Religion and death1:33:01 — Outro

This week on The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Mr. Royce sit down and introduce Royce from Royce's Rant for a layered conversation that moves from masculinity to culture, protest politics, and the psychology of relationships.The episode moves through everything from old-school names disappearing from the culture to mixed names, the evolving NBA landscape, and whether Black communities should engage in ICE protests.0:30 — Being men2:50 — Black History Month podcast showcase5:00 — Super Bowl talk10:00 — Introducing Royce Massengill (background & platforms)11:10 — Old names — why don’t they exist anymore?13:35 — Mixed names17:12 — The NBA is changing40:23 — Should Black people stay out of ICE protests?47:00 — The “Public Healing” phenomenon55:10 — Are men only as faithful as their options?1:15:00 — Is delusion a coping mechanism?Outro — Royce closes

The conversation kicks off with personal check-ins and Black History Month reflections before welcoming Kiss My Grits, who breaks down how she got into true crime and why internet obsession culture is… a lot. From there, nothing is safe.We get into messy celebrity takes, cultural contradictions, wigs under pressure, the Black struggle (past and present), and why some conversations make people deeply uncomfortable. The episode swerves between pop culture, history, identity, and taboo topics — touching on colorism, selling out in reverse, kink discourse, and the release of the Epstein files.It’s chaotic, sharp, funny, and honest — the kind of episode that makes you laugh first and think later.0:52 — Intro1:06 — Is Leise delicate?2:00 — Black History Month showcase3:10 — Intro: Kiss My Grits & how she got into true crime6:47 — Kevin Gates is a menace9:24 — Kristy and Desmond16:05 — Nicki is a loser18:38 — Getting boxed out your wig24:39 — The Black struggle33:36 — Epstein files released43:57 — Was the Middle Passage real?50:00 — Kinks are for clean people50:26 — Selling out in reverse59:13 — Colorism1:10:00 — How to follow Grits1:12:00 — Outro

This episode of The Sidebar Podcast moves fluidly between humor, reflection, and sharp cultural critique.The conversation starts light before expanding into what adulthood really looks like — from making friends after 30 to navigating social spaces that feel increasingly hollow. The episode interrogates pretty privilege, empty packaging, and the ways society keeps people distracted from what’s actually connected beneath the surface.As the tone deepens, the discussion turns to state power, violence, and collective blind spots — asking why certain realities are harder for some people to recognize. From creative exploitation to disagreement being mislabeled as hate, the episode challenges listeners to sit with discomfort rather than scroll past it.It’s layered, unfiltered, and very Sidebar.0:00 — Intro (speaking Spanish)2:00 — Making friends over 305:20 — Optionally chopped10:52 — Pretty privilege, no personality, empty package12:40 — Society is a distraction18:54 — Pretti killed by ICE24:36 — It’s all connected — why don’t white people get that?33:30 — Close run-ins with the toilet47:54 — Why can’t we disagree without it being called hating?51:00 — Creativity gets exploited1:04:03 — Why didn’t we call them out? (Stomp the Yard)1:10:00 — Outro

This episode of The Sidebar Podcast moves fast and hits hard.From questioning the competence of the Trump administration to unpacking sports heartbreak, political contradictions, and cultural absurdities, the conversation bounces between humor and sharp critique. The episode touches on coaching shake-ups, systemic hypocrisy, viral language mishaps, and the rise of “Black Male Podcast Syndrome,” and examines how performance often replaces substance.As the conversation deepens, themes of meritocracy, celebrity collapse, and resistance come into focus — asking when it’s time to stop tapping along and start bucking the system. The episode closes with rapid-fire hot topics, internet moments, and a final reminder that nothing exists in a vacuum.Unfiltered, fast-moving, and very Sidebar.0:00 — Intro1:48 — Royce2:54 — The Trump administration is really not the brightest7:46 — Harbaugh to the Giants15:20 — My heart goes out to the Bills15:42 — The SIN Act22:10 — “Fuck-up” phrases30:27 — Black Male Podcast Syndrome (tap dancing, Steven & Sir Nclecta Newton)52:00 — Meritocracy is out of control59:09 — Death of the megastar1:06:30 — QOTD: When is it time to buck the system?1:12:31 — Hot Topics1:16:31 — Lightskin machine1:20:00 — Outro

This episode of The Sidebar Podcast is unapologetically remedial — in the best way.From admitting baddie tendencies and questioning how “straight” straight really is, to awkward neighbor interactions and conversations that spiral fast, this episode leans fully into chaos, honesty, and uncomfortable truths.The conversation moves through culture, politics, and identity — touching on Black conservatism, luxury and Black culture, ICE being out of control, and what it means to be “high functioning” in a society that keeps moving the goalposts. There’s commentary on sports, politics, internet moments, and unexpected takes that only make sense once you hear them out loud.If you’ve ever felt like everyone else got the syllabus and you didn’t — welcome.This one’s remedial.0:00 — Intro1:48 — Royce admits he is a baddie2:58 — Straightness is a spectrum (because… porn)7:07 — Do you speak to your neighbors?10:09 — “A white woman molested my dog”14:14 — John Harbaugh fired21:24 — Lamar doesn’t like Baltimore (Leise reacts)24:26 — Black people are really conservatives35:00 — Luxury and Black culture53:00 — ICE is out of control1:08:00 — Remedial, high functioning, Donald Trump & Cuban MAGA1:22:17 — Huntrix is dope1:23:22 — Outro / Wrap-up

End-of-year energy has everyone saying they’re “protecting their peace,” but this episode asks the sharper question: what piece are people actually protecting? Peace of mind, a piece of clout, a baddie era, or something more?This episode breaks down the contradiction of claiming peace while starting beef, soft-launching new personalities, and redefining confidence online — including the internet debate over whether men can be baddies.The conversation zooms out to global politics with a clear, accessible breakdown of the Venezuela crisis: how the country got here, what’s happening now, and why it feels like political Groundhog Day, with a brief Iraq-era parallel.We also unpack internet culture’s cycle of selective outrage, where new villains and victims are crowned weekly depending on gender, looks, popularity, and bias.The episode closes with the Anthony Joshua situation and what it reveals about modern journalism, media framing, and why protecting your piece of the truth matters.Protect your peace if you must —but don’t forget to protect your piece.Total Runtime: 1:26:000:00 — Music intro1:05 — Welcome to The Sidebar Podcast2:30 — Holiday check-in + end-of-year energy6:10 — “Protecting your peace”… while starting beef11:45 — Soft-launching new personalities16:20 — Can men be “baddies”? (protecting your piece of confidence)23:40 — Is it Groundhog Day?25:10 — Venezuela: how we got here (simple breakdown)34:50 — What’s happening now in Venezuela44:10 — Iraq parallels & repeating history49:30 — Internet villain/victim of the week51:15 — Selective outrage57:40 — Same behavior, different reaction1:03:30 — Gender, looks, popularity, and bias1:08:45 — Anthony Joshua situation1:11:30 — How media narratives are formed1:18:20 — The state of journalism1:23:30 — Final thoughts: protecting your piece1:26:00 — End

In this episode of The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Royce deliver a true Christmas miracle of chaos, culture, and commentary. From watching the Diddy documentary and deciding once and for all that Mase won, to questioning why cartoons are disappearing and whether SpongeBob has been a victim all along, nothing is off limits.We get into sex as a “gift,” why people lose their minds when Black women run for office, and how society feels dangerously close to becoming the movie Idiocracy. Leise revisits her goth kid era, Royce unpacks white culture, and we pause to give flowers to Black horror legends who shaped the genre.Then we ask the fundamental questions: What changed Stephen A. Smith? Are podcasters actually the problem with society? And is Jake Paul really ready for Anthony Joshua?We close it out with football talk, TikTok trends, and a very Sidebar Christmas send-off.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS2:10 — Royce watched the Diddy documentary… Mase won4:40 — No more cartoons for kids + SpongeBob is a victim6:12 — Why do cartoons wear gloves?11:12 — Is sex a real gift?23:32 — Why people hate when Black women run for office33:42 — Are we living in the movie Idiocracy?36:06 — Goth kid Leise39:15 — White culture45:57 — Paying tribute to Black horror figures49:55 — What changed Stephen A. Smith?57:19 — Are podcasters the problem?1:07:25 — Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua fight talk1:11:35 — Football talk1:13:15 — TikTok flow1:17:00 — Happy Christmas 🎄

This week, we’re talking about living life with Deion Sanders' confidence, how everybody missed the signs with Diddy (Millennials, we need a meeting), and why the U.S. is casually committing war crimes like it’s a side quest. In Episode 2 of The Sidebar Podcast, Leise Winny and Royce are back with another neon-lit sermon of truth, nonsense, and cultural clarity. This week, we’re talking about living life with Deion Sanders' confidence, how everybody missed the signs with Diddy (Millennials, we need a meeting), and why the U.S. is casually committing war crimes like it’s a side quest.We hit everything from messy volunteer firings to Brandy never getting her due, TikTok chaos, body positivity, the 2010s music betrayal era, and Shannon Sharpe being dragged by Dr. Bryant. Buckle up — this one is a ride.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS0:49 — Opening Song1:15 — Intro2:31 — Getting fired from a volunteer job (HOW??)3:00 — Social media is a problem, and you can’t tell us otherwise6:00 — Brandy still isn’t getting her flowers22:23 — Big girls are the best (we said what we said)31:21 — The Diddy Doc: Millennials… how did we miss the signs?46:32 — Hating the 2010s music era + is Timbaland a menace??54:38 — The U.S. bombing Venezuela — America, please stand up1:09:00 — Live your Life like Deion Sanders— pastor vs. pundit showdown

🍟🥒 We're thrilled. GET AN amazing box from Try The World, which generously sent me a fantastic box filled with unique snacks! Leise put the iconic Pringles pickle to the ultimate test —will it be a delicious surprise or a total disaster?  @Trytheworldbox  Watch as Leise taste-tests these excellent snacks and shares her honest reactions.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all our flavor adventures. Have you tried Pringle Pickles before? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let the flavor madness begin! 🎉

Welcome to the first episode of The Sidebar, where Leise Winny & Royce mix pop culture, politics, and petty Black millennial commentary.This week, we break down DMV vs ATL culture, whether AI music is ruining creativity, $20 Happy Meals, Offset & Cardi’s drama, relationship “closure,” gym weirdos, the wild Epstein emails, and why Nicki Minaj was randomly at the UN.Grab a seat and slide into the Sidebar.00:00 — Intro1:00 — Who we are + What’s the DMV?7:12 — Is AI music bad?13:22 — Trans athletes & sports20:22 — McDonald’s $20 Happy Meal25:41 — Offset’s album + Cardi drama30:14 — Relationships & “closure”55:14 — Gym chaos1:05:32 — Epstein emails (…did he do THAT?)1:14:11 — Nicki Minaj at the UN1:19:34 — Outro

Welcome to Slim Fast Kids, the podcast where we unpack the diet culture circus that raised us — one decade at a time. In this debut episode, we’re heading back to the 1980s, the era of spandex leotards, moms power-walking with Jane Fonda tapes, and refrigerators stocked with Diet Coke like it was holy water.This was the decade where diet culture really strapped on its leg warmers and hit the treadmill. With more moms entering the workforce, TV booming, and glossy magazines screaming “thin is in,” kids of the ’80s were basically set up for a lifetime subscription to body shame. We’ll break down the neon-lit nonsense, the “miracle” products, and the pop-culture moments that taught a whole generation that calories were evil and cottage cheese was a meal.Funny, biting, and just a little tragic — this is the start of the diet drama that shaped the rest of us.****made with AI

In the season finale of We Vote Too, host Leise Winny steps up to the mic—solo—to unpack the chaotic, confusing, and critically urgent state of democracy in 2025.This isn’t just a recap. It’s a reality check.From voter suppression laws and court power grabs to gerrymandering and rising public distrust, we break down exactly what’s happening, where democracy stands, and how we move forward. With real-world examples, court wins, and tools for action, this episode is part explainer, part pep talk, and part rallying cry.If you’ve been feeling like democracy is dying in broad daylight, you’re not alone. But you’re not powerless either.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Legal Disclosure (gotta keep it official)00:32 – Welcome intro00:50 – We Vote Too theme music1:05 – Where we are and where we’re going8:31 – The Democracy Mood Check (America 2025)15:17 – Democracy Under Pressure21:39 – The Courts Are Being Politicized23:48 – Voting Rights25:55 – The Fighting Back (Court wins + community resistance)30:25 – What is activism in 2025?33:35 – What we can do: real actions that matter35:45 – Outro: “If democracy lives anywhere, it lives in us.”

Featuring Tanja Hester, author of Wallet ActivismYour wallet is more potent than you think. In this special bonus episode of We Vote Too, we revisit an eye-opening archived interview with Tanja Hester—former political consultant, FIRE movement pioneer, and author of Wallet Activism—to explore how your everyday financial choices can become acts of resistance.Tanja breaks down what wallet activism means, how to tell the difference between good and bad corporate behavior, and why slow change is still powerful. From critiquing philanthropy to unpacking performative travel activism, she helps us reimagine what it means to live our values—even when the system feels stuck.If you’ve ever asked yourself, What can I do besides protest?—This episode is for you.Because We the People? We Vote Too.00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro music00:52 – What is Wallet Activism? Setting the stage06:40 – Interview begins with Tanja Hester08:30 – Who is Tanja Hester? From politics to financial justice10:56 – What is wallet activism—and why it matters now12:42 – How to stop supporting the bad guys and uplift the good16:34 – What does real activism look like—and who gets to be an activist?19:28 – How to stay motivated when change is slow22:06 – What's wrong with traditional philanthropy?26:52 – Why travel isn’t always activism31:20 – Breaking down her book Wallet Activism34:31 – How to get involved and follow Tanja’s work36:13 – Outro

Young voters are the largest, most diverse voting bloc in the country, but they’re also the most disillusioned. In this episode, we dig into the gap between political power and political participation among Gen Z and Millennial voters. Why do so many young people feel like voting doesn’t matter? What’s fueling their dissatisfaction, and what motivates them to show up?We break down the numbers, bust the myths, and spotlight the organizers, campaigns, and conversations that are shifting the narrative. From TikTok to town halls, this episode is a crash course in how to reach future voters where they are, and why their voices are essential to the future of democracy.🎙️ Featuring:Bre DeShon, digital strategist and youth engagement advocate, socio-political commentator, and organizer📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro Song00:42 – Intro: Why Young Voter Engagement Matters05:29 – Getting Younger Voters Out ft. Bre DeShon06:10 – Who Are Young Voters?08:57 – Bre DeShon’s Background14:24 – Lack of Access to Politics / How Do You Break In?15:57 – How Did You Get into the World of TikTok?18:45 – Should We Use Fear to Get People to Vote?19:28 – Are the Democrats Fragmented? Are We “Too Woke”?19:44 – How Do You Reach Everyone as a Democrat?20:21 – Conversation with Bre Jefferson24:34 – The Environment & Climate Concerns28:35 – What Should We Be Focused On?30:37 – What Do We Need to Do Now?30:49 – Are Student Loans on the Ballot?34:28 – Do Younger Voters Still Care About Roe v. Wade?36:31 – What Would You Say to First-Time Voters?Whether you’re a civic educator, campaign staffer, content creator, or just a voter who cares, this episode has the data, the dialogue, and the direction we need to shape a more inclusive democracy.

What happens when red pill content leaves the group chat and hits the ballot box? In this episode of We Vote Too, host Leise Winny is joined by filmmaker, writer, host, and educator Nerra Muhammad to break down how red pill ideology has become more than just toxic dating advice—it’s a gateway to misogyny, racism, and far-right politics.Together, we unpack why young white men are shifting toward Trump, how patriarchy harms everyone, and what it means to love—and fight for—a better future. From TikTok to the voting booth, it’s time to talk about how masculinity became a battlefield.🎧 Timestamps:00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro Music00:45 – Welcome to Red Pill Content03:21 – Interview with Nerra Muhammad begins06:36 – Black men and red pill influence08:31 – “Pick me” culture and internalized misogyny11:03 – What causes men to go red pill?13:03 – Intersectionality & protecting Black men without enabling harm15:32 – Do women still want to be with men?17:32 – The fantasy of the “trad life”19:13 – Do men even like women?23:23 – What is a feminist?32:04 – How to communicate with red-pilled men32:58 – Will we ever see a female president?37:04 – Why men need to talk to men38:15 – Nerra’s new doc: Love & the Gender War40:10 – Final thoughts: “Just love more”42:40 – Outro

In this episode, host Lisa Winny explores the disconnect between rising employment numbers and the lived reality of many Gen Z and Millennial workers, who say the job market still feels like a rigged game. From the fading promises of workplace DEI to endless rejection emails for being “overqualified,” we ask: What does work feel like today, and how does that impact civic engagement?Additionally, we revisit a 2023 interview with Khaaliq Crowder, a journalist and media professional, who shares his candid experience navigating job rejection due to being "too qualified." Additionally, we revisit a 2024 interview with Khaaliq Crowder, a journalist and media professional, who shares his candid experiences navigating job rejection, being perceived as "too qualified," and why he refuses to give up on carving his path.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro music00:47 – Opening thoughts: Jobs, vibes, and the vote05:21 – Interview intro: Khaaliq Crowder07:46 – How hard is the rejection economy?07:47 – Rejected for being over-qualified11:59 – Khaaliq’s employment background & journey15:58 – Can we fix the employment market as it is?19:30 – Keep going. Make your way.22:40 – Outro and call to action📢 Got thoughts? Tag us @theMAPSmedia and share how your job journey has influenced your perspective on voting and power.

Is a third party a real alternative, or just the reason your least favorite candidate wins? In this episode of We Vote Too, we unpack the structural roadblocks, cultural skepticism, and political urgency surrounding third-party politics in the U.S.Host Leise Winny sits down with political organizer Muhammad to discuss exploring third parties, exploring their historical role, whether third parties are viable, what role they’ve historically played in elections, and how they might better serve marginalized voters than the two-party system. Can a third party work—or is the system too rigged for real choice?From the spoiler effect to single-issue voter traps, and from ballot access to the 2024 stakes, we’re asking: What would it take to build a third party that wins?Because We the People? We Vote Too.00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro music00:33 – Can a third party work? Breakdown begins03:48 – Interview with Farajii Muhammad04:44 – Can a third party work in this system?07:38 – Did third parties ruin past elections?10:29 – The spoiler effect: myth or math?13:36 – Should there be a third party for minorities?19:55 – How to fix the single-issue voter problem in third parties24:30 – Should we pause third-party pushes until Trump is out of office?31:04 – What we should be doing to create third-party options35:36 – Could a third-party candidate beat someone like Gavin Newsom?39:57 – Will Democrats go too far left in 2024?43:34 – How perfectionism hurts progressive movements49:36 – Vote for who you want to vote for52:54 – Outro

We've all seen what too far right looks like. But what about the other side? Can you go too far left… and what does that even mean in America?In this episode, host Leise Winny and guest Deanna Neal (organizer, commentator, and unapologetic truth-teller) dig into the tension on the left—from disillusioned progressives to centrist Democrats losing the room. We unpack why some voters once fired up for Bernie ended up voting for Trump, and ask: Is perfectionism paralyzing progress? Are we labeling each other to death? And is the fear of being seen as "radical" holding us back from real change?👉 A must-listen for anyone wondering where the progressive movement goes next—and how we win people over without compromising our values.🗓️ Timestamps0:00 – Disclosure00:34 – Intro Song00:48 – Can You Go Too Far Left?03:36 – Interview with/ Deanna Neal04:26 – Did We Go Too Left in 2024?07:21 – Are We Mislabeling or Misframing?09:37 – Is Perfectionism Hurting the Left?16:35 – Can You Vote for Someone You Don't Fully Agree With?18:26 – Why Do Far-Left Movements Get Demonized?24:15 – The Bernie Problem26:42 – Why Are We So Afraid to Be Labeled?31:22 – Should We Talk to MAGA Supporters?34:43 – Extremism Is the Problem36:52 – We Have to Read the Policies38:02 – Outro🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Immigration in the U.S. is more than headlines and border walls — it’s a complex system that touches millions of lives, often in invisible ways. In this episode of We Vote Too, we break down what’s going on: from visa categories and green card backlogs to DACA, asylum, and undocumented status.We explain how these systems work (and don’t), what’s changed under recent federal crackdowns, and why immigration raids — like the ones unfolding in cities like Los Angeles — are just the tip of a much deeper policy iceberg.Our guest, human rights and immigration attorney Yannick Gil, helps us understand how enforcement priorities have shifted, the impact on communities, and what legal protections remain in place.Most importantly, we explore how these policies affect all of us — not just immigrants — and share tangible ways you can support families, combat misinformation, and advocate for meaningful reform.Whether you’re brand new to this issue or deep in the work, this is your immigration explainer, action guide, and human story — all in one.⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Legal disclosure (gotta keep it official)00:33 – Intro music (get in the vibe)00:48 – Trump's War on Immigration04:31 – Interview begins with Yannick Gil: The State of Immigration05:55 – What’s the difference between a refugee, an asylum seeker, someone protected by DACA, and someone here on a visa?11:30 – The benefits of a robust immigrant population14:30 – What does come here "the right way" mean? Pathways to citizenship19:55 – What is due process? How this impacts us all24:27 – What is ICE allowed to do?30:14 – The Immigration and Nationality Act: A tool for surveillance?33:31 – What does it mean to be stateless?38:02 – What it's like in an ICE detention center41:56 – How should we protest? Can the courts stop what’s happening?49:29 – What keeps you hopeful?53:22 – Resources for the public55:01 – Keep standing up and protesting56:47 – Outro

Today on We Vote Too, we’re diving headfirst into a conversation many avoid but desperately need: Why do so many low-income white Americans keep voting against their own economic interests?Let’s be real—despite the myth of the “welfare queen” (hint: she doesn’t look like you think), white Americans make up the largest group receiving government assistance. In 2022, 51 million white individuals received welfare, more than triple the number of Black recipients. Yet the narrative still blames Black folks for “draining the system.” Why?In this episode, we get into:How the post-slavery South gave poor whites their first real shot at economic freedom—and how they chose whiteness over solidarity.Why is it more convenient to punch down than to challenge the wealthy elites pulling the strings?Whether we should still be courting these voters or cutting our losses.With special guest Marquis Lupton, we explore the deep roots of racialized class politics, media-fueled division, and whether there’s still room for coalition-building in a time of MAGA populism and billionaires cosplaying as “working class heroes.”🔊 Time-stamped breakdown:00:00 – Legal disclosure (gotta keep it official)00:33 – Intro music (get in the vibe)00:48 – The historical plight and dilemma of poor whites03:38 – Interview begins with Marquis Lupton: Is ideology more important than interest?07:49 – Why do some poor white Americans feel threatened by progress?09:45 – Should we still be trying to “win them over”?13:31 – What does engaging with MAGA voters really look like?16:55 – The uncomfortable truth: poor white people have more in common with poor Black folks than with billionaires20:29 – The media’s role in dividing working-class communities24:18 – How Obama’s presidency may have paved the way for MAGA26:33 – No more excuses—some folks are exactly who they’ve shown themselves to be31:59 – “Black people are resting.” What does that mean in this context?40:47 – Black voters have historically helped poor white communities, even when it wasn’t mutual42:59 – Outro: messy truths, mic drops, and marching forwardThis one’s witty, sharp, and probably going to get your uncle mad at Thanksgiving.We Vote Too—because democracy doesn’t work unless we all understand the game we're in.

🗽 Featuring Edafe Okporo, NYC Council Candidate (District 7)Podcast Description:Capitalism gave us Netflix, Amazon, and five-dollar delivery fees for five-dollar tacos. But for Millennials? It's also given economic trauma, $100k in student debt, and an endless hustle culture wrapped in inspirational quotes.In this episode of We Vote Too, we ask: Is it capitalism we hate—or just the broken version we inherited? Host Leise Winny breaks it all down with the help of Edafe Okporo, a human rights advocate and candidate for New York City Council District 7.We talk generational disillusionment, overpriced degrees, and why GoFundMe shouldn’t be our national healthcare plan. From the housing crisis to political engagement, we explore what it means to fight for a system that works for everyone—and why Millennials aren’t anti-capitalist… we’re just pro-receipts.⏱️ Episode TimelineBecause We the People? We Vote Too.00:00 – Disclosure00:32 – Intro music00:48 – Capitalism background: Millennials vs. the system03:22 – Interview starts: Edafe Okporo joins the conversation04:17 – District 7: What it is and why it matters05:18 – Edafe’s background as an advocate and immigrant08:18 – Do Millennials hate capitalism?11:32 – The cost of education and who it’s leaving behind13:33 – How capitalism is choking higher education17:22 – Rethinking capitalism: Is there a better model?20:41 – Housing: The millennial affordability crisis25:25 – What is socialism… and why is it taboo in U.S. politics?29:02 – Can we get money out of politics?35:13 – Political engagement without performative pressure38:35 – Capitalism vs. Oligarchy: Is this what democracy looks like?42:56 – Breaking the “Instagram grindset” myth47:17 – Edafe’s NYC campaign and the policies he’s fighting for52:00 – Outro: Fix the system or ditch the hustle?

In our first episode of We Vote Too, we look at the Democratic Party’s current strategy and ask if it’s working. From the legacy of past approaches to the bold moves of today, we explore the rise of young voices like David Hogg, the positioning of Vice President Kamala Harris, and the party’s shifting stance on the Gaza conflict. Whether you’re a longtime voter or just getting into the conversation, this episode dives into what’s at stake, what’s changed, and what the future might hold.RECORDED IN APRIL 202500:00 - Disclosure: Get the inside scoop on today’s discussion!00:31 - Intro Music 00:49 - What’s Wrong with the Dems? A Historical Perspective We kick things off by examining the history of the Democratic Party and unearthing the challenges they face.Interview Segment:7:31 - Current Strategy Check: What Are the Democrats Doing? Join Josh Nanberg and Alex Sumas as they dissect current Democratic strategies.9:19 - Time for Change: What Should the Dems Be Doing? Exploring actionable strategies for a more effective approach.11:38 - Performative vs. Action: The Gen Z Dilemma Understanding the generational divide in political engagement.13:26 - David Hogg’s Playbook: Dismantling the DNC An innovative look at advocacy and structural change from a youth perspective.16:47 - The Perfectionist Problem: Why striving for perfection could hold the party back.17:50 - Beyond Centrism: Can Dems Embrace Diversity? Discussing the need for a broader spectrum of candidates.21:50 - Messaging Matters: Crafting the Democratic Narrative. How can Democrats better communicate their values and vision?25:26 - Lost Opportunities: How Did Dems Lose Young Male Voters? A critical analysis of the demographics slipping away.29:33 - Moving Forward: Advancing Democratic Messaging. What steps can be taken to revive the party's appeal?33:39 - Defining the Brand: Who Are the Democrats? Ronald Reagan once said, "I didn’t leave the Democratic Party; the party left me." What does this mean today?36:15 - Bernie’s Blueprint: Successful Organizing Models Unpacking Bernie Sanders’ strategies and their effectiveness.39:05 - Next in Line: Who Should Lead the Democrats? A conversation on future leadership and direction.41:59 - Young & In Charge: How Do We Get More Youth to Run? Fostering a new generation of political leaders.44:51 - Outro: Wrapping up our thoughts and key takeaways.

Assessing political engagement is crucial for our democracy in a polarized social media landscape. We Vote Too explores the motivations and challenges that drive voters, examining barriers to participation and amplifying diverse perspectives. We aim to empower individuals to navigate the political process and encourage informed, active involvement in their civic environment.

Another exciting episode of Buzz Pop, your go-to podcast for all things Super Bowl! Your host, Leise Winny, is joined by two special guests joining us to delve into the world of not football and everything not Super Bowl. Shannon Finegan is a media researcher at NFL Films, and sports writer Tamika A. Nwalipenja co-founded CrossRoads International and co-host of the fan sports show It Takes 2. 1. Is the Taylor effect. 2. Are Travis and Taylor the real deal? 3. Brittany Mahomes gets all the hate. 4. New Year New NFL Brand Deal. 5. Usher halftime song picks. To get 20% Off Try The World, Click here: https://www.pntrs.com/t/SENLTUhKS09DSEhJSkxMQ0dISkpNTw ******Buzz Pop may, on occasion, engage in affiliate marketing. We may earn a commission from certain products or services mentioned, recommended, or linked to in our episodes or show notes.

1. Intro (My Halloween costume 1min 48 secs, How Velma got sexy 3 min 29 sec, Goop Sex series 7 mins 44 sec, Why yall out here messing with will and Jada? 10 min 44 sec) 2. Interview with Paul Lamar Hunter 16 min 09 sec 3. Millennial Mins 33 min 44 sec: Joe Biden big spending bill, Joe & the pope, Jim Bob Duggar is pursuing a career in politics, Kal Pen AKA Kumar of Harold & Kumar is engaged and out, Sherif department lied, Kids Abandoned in Texas apartment, Jay-z in Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Wale explains why he left roc nation, FDA approved for kids, Insecure is in trouble. 4. Outro 1 hr 2 mins

DTLR AD  30 sec Intro 35 sec Leise discusses her bday plans  5 mins long nail problems  6 mins Halloween rewind does & don'ts 7 mins, why gen Z & millennials are hard to hire sometimes 14 min Interview Brendan Mulligan 38 min Millennial Mins:  42 min striketober 42 min 27 sec, Truth social 43 min, Lady suing Kellogs, Wendy Williams not returning yet, Bomb cyclone, an older man marries younger women & goes viral, Netflix walkout, Boosie & Lil Nas x.

Intro (2mins) 2. Millennial Mintunes (11min 12 sec): Colin Powell Dies at 84, The cost of energy above $80 a barrel on Monday for the first time in nearly seven years, Stacey Dash Admits to Being a Drug Addict, Woman attacked on a train in Philadelphia, Golden Globe will not be telecaster in 2022, Scientists detect radio waves from space, Leah Remini vs Wendy Williams, Rory & Mal get big paycheck, You came back on Netflix, Channing Tatum on Dave Chappelle. Interview Replay With Sara Weis: