Who Knows, It's Just Life
by Kyle Carson
Who Knows, It's Just Life is hosted by Kyle. Any and all topics are fair game: politics, social/economic justice, the isms, relationships, raising kids, technology, social media, health and wellness - any facet of life.I admit that I don’t know and that I’m still learning. I’m moving in this world based on my experiences and understanding to this point. But ultimately I'm continuously learning and trying to figure out the world as it comes to me and as I come to it. This is a public expression of that learning process.IG @realdadult
Episodes
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S2 Ep 4 - World Cup 2026 w/ Mabinti Yillah
You know me well enough to know that I HAD to do another episode with Mabiniti given all the storylines, narratives and controversies that this World Cup brought on. We talk about the many geopolitical, racial, religious and societal threads that came to light during this world cup. Other Place…
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S2 Ep 3 - Love Trumps Hate
Forgive me for the clickbaity title lol....On today’s episode I delve into both sides of this statement. I share my beliefs that love is truly the only and most powerful force in the universe. The second is a challenge - do we have the capacity to love the wounded child that is Donald Trump? The...
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S2 Ep 2 - Roller Coasters and other Updates with the Kiddo
On today’s episode I have a repeat special guest - the kiddo! After hearing the last episode of season 1, he wanted to jump on and provide some updates! Some things are new: he’s now a roller coaster enthusiast in training and a YouTuber. Some things are the same, he’s a very introspective guest...
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S2 Ep 1 - We’re Back: Thanksgiving 2025 Reflections
After an unintentional 2+ year hiatus, we are back with a new season. Life has lifed in all ways (blessings and challenges). The decision to resume the show is less than 24 hours young but I’m excited to see what this next chapter brings. This episode was inspired by thoughts and reflections…
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S1 Ep 43 - He's 10!
Today is a very special episode. I am joined by the kiddo to celebrate his 10th birthday! First we provide some updates from the Father's Day episode (Episode 37) and we ask each other some thought provoking questions: What is hard about being a kid? Why don't adults play with toys? Would you...
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S1 Ep 42 - Breakups
On today's episode Cierra and I delve into breakups. For the first time on the show, I discuss my divorce. Cierra and I both share our experiences dealing with breakups. References: The Book of Forgiving by Desmond Tutu and Mpho Tutu Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari Mating in Captivity and The State...
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S1 Ep 41 - Tiptoeing into Restorative Justice: The Stolen Car
On today's episode, Cierra and I tiptoe into restorative justice with a real and ongoing situation. Cierra's car was stolen during the summer and it has put her through a lot. Guided by her faith, she is trying to regain a sense of safety and security, navigate the criminal legal system, and...
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S1 Ep 40 - Me vs. We
On this episode I am joined by Ms. Cierra Lewis again! We discuss the eluded to topic of Me vs. We. Individual vs. Community. It often seems like individual and community identities are on opposing ends of a seesaw. We delve into the need to recognize and honor both the importance of…
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S1 Ep 39 - ...But Words Will Never Hurt Me
Yet again I am joined by Ms. Cierra Lewis on this episode were we dispel the myth that comes from the old adage "sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me". Resources Chen paper Songs Cierra: LaNell Grant - Answer by Fire Kyle: LaNell Grant - Collect Call Contact...
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S1 Ep 38 - When is What Cheating?
On this episode I am joined by Ms. Cierra Lewis! We discuss a few current events (July 4th and Kiki Palmer) before delving into the main topic: The Black Mirror Episode "Striking Vipers". This episode uses a fully immersive fighting game as the basis to explore sexuality, attraction, cheating and...
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S1 Ep 37 - Father's Day with Special Guests
On this episode I am joined by my dad and the kiddo! NEW IG: @thecoolpapabell
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S1 Ep 36 - Spring Break Reflections (and a Tribute to Harry Belafonte)
In this episode I recap an eventful spring break with the kiddo. We visited my brother's farm in Georgia. I speak about the joy of seeing him feed chickens, plant potatoes and overall enjoy the spacious outdoors. I also reflect on the differences in small town Georgia and the emotional roller...
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S1 Ep 35 - We See You Angel Reese: A Push for Women's Sports
On today's episode I tackle a subject that's been on my mind for nearly a year - the inequity between men's and women's team sports. I first offer a reaction to Bill Burr's standup bit about why women athletes don't make the money male athletes make. I then share my experience as a basketball fan...
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S1 Ep 34 - The 1619 Project w/ Cierra Lewis
On this episode I am joined by Cierra Lewis. Cierra facilitated a book club on The 1619 Project in Norfolk, VA. We talk about her thoughts and reflections on the book as well as the experience of facilitating the book club. Book References: Nikole Hannah-Jones - The 1619 Project Khaled Hosseini -...
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S1 Ep 33 - Happy New Year 2023
This episode is dedicated to Turner Cooper, may he rest in peace and power! On this episode I share some highlights of the end of 2022 including some concerts (Burna Boy and Oddisee), Kwanzaa discussions and a New Years Day hike. I also offer a preview of some of what's to come on the podcast in...
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S1 Ep 32 - Quarter Life Reflections with Toney
On this episode, I talk to my long time friend Toney. At 26 years old, Toney is one of the most intelligent, insightful and reflective people I know. He is at the point of adulthood where he is reflecting on various things he learned coming of age in DC and how they are applying to life as an…
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S1 Ep 31 - The Word Cup feat. MaBinti Yillah
On this episode I am joined by a long time college friend MaBiniti Yillah. She is an avid football (soccer) fan and helped me breakdown the World Cup results and major stories leading up to the final. We talk about whether or not we should call it football in the US. We break down Morocco's...
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S1 Ep 30 - Finding Home: Reflections from Ghana
On this episode I reflect on my trip to Ghana. A major theme of my experience was sorting out feelings of home. Is the US home? Is Ghana a homegoing of sorts? I've read Searching for Zion by Emily Raboteau and Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi. Both delve into the idea of "home" for Black Americans and…
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S1 Ep 29 - Restorative Justice with Randell Strickland
On this episode I interview Mr. Randell Strickland. He is a Chicago native who now resides in the DC area. His career has gone from being in the U.S. military to being a non violent advocate and restorative justice worker in DC Public Schools. We briefly talk about his family upbringing, his...
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S1 Ep 28 - Beach Reflections feat. Lucas Correia-Covert
For this episode I am joined by my cousin Lucas. We recorded from the beach in Narragansett, Rhode Island - the site of a long time tradition in my mom's family. As kids, this was our best time to hang out since Lucas is from Seekonk, MA and I was raised in the DC area. As adults, all 7 cousins…
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S1 Ep 27 - The Millennial Divide feat. Kendra
On this episode I am joined by my younger sister Kendra. Though we are both technically millennials, it sometimes seems like we are worlds apart in our generational experiences. We discuss racial identity, the R-word, sexual/gender identity and more. We also talk about differences in our…
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S1 Ep 26 - Politricks
Why can't I vote in the meaningful primary elections in Maryland? Why is gerrymandering watering down the political process? Is it at all surprising that the corporate elite in the DNC are spending big money AGAINST progressive candidates within their party? I discuss all this and more on this...
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S1 Ep 25 - Do Epic $#!T feat. Uncle Shawn
On this episode I talk to my Uncle Shawn who is an English teacher, world traveler and all around amazing person. We discuss his travels in South America, Australia/New Zeland and his most recent travels in Kemet (Egypt), Kenya and Ethiopia. He shares what it was like to save up and leave the...
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S1 Ep 24 - On Choosing Violence
On this episode I speak about choosing violence. Yes, I talk about Will Smith choosing violence, Chris Rock & Ketanji Brown Jackson NOT choosing violence, the War in Ukrane, the War in the Tigray region of Ethiophia and the overall disconnects and hypocrisy regarding violence in our society. NEW...
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S1 Ep 23 - Going Down the Rabbit Hole with Ryan W
I am dropping this episode exactly a year after I met my guest, Ryan W. Ryan is an energy wellness practitioner who formed The Humble Practice. In this episode we truly go down the rabbit hole. We first discuss the 4th Matrix film (and the series in its entirety). The discussion went on to delve...
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S1 Ep 22 - Rediscovering Masculinity w/ Tony Aldridge
In this episode I am joined by my long time friend, Tony Aldridge. We wrestle with definitions of masculinity and speak about toxic masculinity and male fragility. We dissect the depictions of masculinity in each of the following IG posts and compare them to our own lives as partners and fathers....
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S1 Ep 21 - Race. Sports. Work. Again. (Sorry Not Sorry)
On this episode I quickly address the MLB lockout, it's racist Hall of Fame (Barry Bonds should be in), Brian Flores, the exploitative Super Bowl halftime show and the idea of Black authenticity at work in general. References: For Colored Nerds: Authenticity at Work is a Trap with Jodi-Ann Burey...
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S1 Ep 20 - Something New for 2022
This episode isn't heavy. I summarize the holiday season and set my sights on what 2022 will bring to the podcast. I also speak on the passing of Betty White, Sidney Poitier, and Bob Saget. Songs I'm Rocking To: Black Pumas - Colors Mickey Guyton - Remember Her Name NEW IG: @thecoolpapabell
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S1 Ep 19 - Patriarchy Strikes Back
On this episode, I speak about patriarchy and a specific workplace example of Patriarchy's persistent pollution of workplace culture. Amid Omicron outbreaks, I ponder when coronavirus will no longer be "novel" and I reflect on the impact the late great bell hooks had on my life. Song I'm Rocking...
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S1 Ep 18 - We're a Year In!
On this episode I reflect on the fact that it's been over a year since I started Who Knows It's Just Life. I speak on a number of topics in this episode including an update on Red House Series, MLB and my continued frustration with it's racial progress, election results, Colin Black and White…
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S1 Ep 17 - Cancelation: Columbus and Chappelle
It is with some hesitation that I touch on these topics. But as a friend of mine reminded me, that is what your show is all about. In this episode I provide a number of updates including the Nyumburu Cultural Center 50th anniversary, the Philly Spartan Race and more. I also focus on my struggles...
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S1 Ep 16 - Shoulders I Stand On: Audio from my Maternal Grandparents
In this episode I tap into my archive of audio footage and share recordings of my maternal grandparents. These were recorded from 2007 - 2008. September is a big month because both of my grandparents were born in September and my grandma passed away in September 7 years ago. We also celebrated my...
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S1 Ep 15 - Black August
In this episode I reflect on Black August 2021. I acknowledge my unfortunate ignorance of the history and customs of Black August and reflect on my involvement in Herb and Temple's Black August activities, highlighted by a pilgrimage to Richmond, VA. References: @herbandtemple @efsinc Black Power...
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S1 Ep 14 - Reparations (Raceisms Podcast Rebroadcast)
In this episode I rebroadcast an episode from the Raceisms Podcast team. I talk at length about what Reparations for Black Americans could look like. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reparations-or-bust/id1525297952?i=1000530183731 @raceismspodcast Song I'm Rocking To: Raury - Take Back the...
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S1 Ep 13 - Juneteenth, Father's Day and a look at Summer 2021
In this episode I speak about the anniversary of the Tulsa Massacre, the Olympic Qualifiers and Sha'Carri Richardson and my Juneteenth/Father's day trip to Indianapolis with my son. Song I'm Rocking to: Protoje and Koffee - Switch it Up NEW IG: @thecoolpapabell
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S1 Ep 12 - A Conversation with Mom
In this episode I am joined by my mom. We talk about how her parents and the major world events that took place in her childhood shaped her worldview. She speaks about playing sports as a young woman in the 70s, experiencing white privilege, feminism and the decision to stay home to raise us…
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S1 Ep 11 - It's About the Jounrney: A Conversation with Dad
On this episode I am joined by my dad. We talk about what it was like for him to grow up in Newport, Rhode Island. Dad shares life lessons and experiences including being an engineering major in the 70s, a feminist in the 80s and transitioning through to "Chapter 2" in life where he is…
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S1 Ep 10 - Self Care, Mental Health and Other Symptoms of a Failed System
We're one quarter through 2021! On today's episode I speak about the plethora of positive messages I see about self care and mental health. This is MUCH needed. But I also want us to properly diagnose the SYSTEM for causing the need for focus in these areas. Capitalism highlights individualism,...
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S1 Ep 09 - Recovery
In this episode, I speak about recovery in a few forms. One is my recovery from COVID (which is part of the reason for the gap between episodes). I also speak about my recovery from the events of January 6th, and a period of dismay about the next strategic move for Black people. I also offer some...
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S1 Ep 08 - #StaytheCourse, #ChangethePace
I reflect on 2020, look to 2021 and react to the takeover of the Capitol. I express gratitude for the positives I took from 2020. I'm not big on resolutions so I focus on staying the course (though, course corrections are cool, too). The takeover of the US Capitol today, while predictable, was...
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S1 Ep 07 - 2020 Reflections with Jazz Lewis
As we close out 2020, I talk with my long time friend Jazz Lewis, State Delegate of the 24th District in Maryland. We discuss the Maryland Legislature, recap 2020 and look towards 2021. We also reflect on life post kid and our love for music. NEW IG: @thecoolpapabell
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S1 Ep 06 - December 4th 1969
In today's episode, I speak about two major events that took place December 4th 1969: the assassination of Fred Hampton at the hands of Chicago Police and the birth of Jay-Z in New York City. The importance and legacies of these two men are simultaneously in sync and at odds with each other. In...
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S1 Ep 05 - The Raceisms Mixtape: Behind the Music
On today's episode, I go "behind the music" on the Raceisms Mixtape: Season 1. This is a collection of original music inspired by the first season of the Raceisms Podcast. You can hear the entire mixtape on bandcamp. There, you can also purchase the downloadable album to support the production of...
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S1 Ep 04 - Reframe Thanksgiving
On today's episode, I am joined by Vickie Ramirez, Stina Hamlin and Barrie Adleberg. I was humbled to be welcomed into the ongoing conversation about Thanksgiving. The team offered great insight on how to reframe Thanksgiving by considering Native perspectives on gratitude, food and the truth of...
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S1 Ep 03 - Philly State of Mind
On today's episode I welcome my long time friend Mai Spann-Wilson to get his perspective on the state of Philadelphia. We discuss the killing of Walter Wallace Jr., the people's reaction and the tone of Philly after the election. Mai is a Professor of conflict resolution at Temple University,...
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S1 Ep 02 - Thoughts and Reaction to the 2020 Election
I cover my thoughts and reactions to the 2020 election. I mention the need to make Election Day a holiday, protest voting, parallels to the 1920 Ocoee Massacre and the need to push Bidden/Harris to do even more than they promised. Song I'm Rocking To: Mixed Messages by Big KRIT -...
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S1 Ep 01 - What to Do With Problematic Sports Leagues?
This is the first episode of Who Knows, It's Just Life the podcast, hosted by Kyle. This episode includes a brief introduction to Kyle and the podcast. As a big baseball fan, the conclusion of the World Series was a good time to reflect on Major League Baseball's frustrating reaction to the Black...
About this show
Who Knows, It's Just Life is hosted by Kyle. Any and all topics are fair game: politics, social/economic justice, the isms, relationships, raising kids, technology, social media, health and wellness - any facet of life.I admit that I don’t know and that I’m still learning. I’m moving in this world based on my experiences and understanding to this point. But ultimately I'm continuously learning and trying to figure out the world as it comes to me and as I come to it. This is a public expression of that learning process.IG @realdadult
Hosted by
Kyle Carson
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