Hold Please, I Said What I Said

We recap our top five books of 2025 and the stories that kept us turning pages across sports memoirs, romance series, mysteries, and faith-based reads. We also compare reading goals, laugh about falling down series rabbit holes, and say it with our chests: audiobooks count. Our five-star sports memoir picks from Dawn Staley and A’ja Wilson, why Black women’s stories and mentorship themes hit hard. We talk about why a plus-size romance that feels funny and empowering We break down our 2025 totals and 2026 reading goals, from steady to extreme why listening to audiobooks is still reading. 

A presidential campaign in 107 days sounds impossible until you start hearing how it actually works and how ugly it can get behind closed doors. We sit down with our book club brains turned all the way on and unpack Kamala Harris’s 107 Days, a political memoir built around speed, scrutiny, and the kind of pressure that turns every relationship into a stress test.Our reactions are not the same, and that’s the fun. We talk honestly about what we expected to get, what felt boring or overly “politically correct,” and what still managed to land as revealing if you pay attention to what’s implied instead of what’s spelled out. We dig into the behind-the-scenes campaign dynamics, the question of whether parts of her own circle felt unsteady, and the moments that made us look at Joe Biden and Jill Biden differently. If you’ve ever wondered how much of politics is strategy and how much is emotion, pride, and timing, this conversation keeps it real without pretending we have every missing piece.We also pull-out practical takeaways on resilience and leadership: making fast decisions, keeping your standards under stress, staying grounded in your roots, and handling loss with grace when the whole world is watching. By the end, we give our ratings, say who we think should read or listen to the audiobook, and why it’s still worth forming your own opinion.

What if your story is the spark someone else needs? We dive into testimony as a living, breathing practice—part Scripture, part sweat, and fully human. From redefining what “testify” means in both church and everyday life to navigating the thin line between sharing and oversharing, we get honest about how to speak truth in ways that help rather than harm.You’ll hear real moments: a stroke survivor finding hope through someone else’s story, a pageant-stage confession that released shame in the crowd, and the quiet power of a praying grandmother whose faith still moves mountains years later. We unpack why timing, discernment, and audience matter when you open up about your journey, and how obedience to a nudge can turn a personal moment into someone else’s breakthrough.Music shows up as testimony, too. Songs like Trust In God, It’s All God, and I Remember Mama become soundtracks for waiting well, holding courage, and celebrating the outcome when the news finally lands. W If you’ve ever wondered whether your voice matters, this conversation will remind you that a single honest story can plant a seed, shift a room, and start a harvest you may never see.

Holiday joy meets hard truths as we swap Grinch-green decor ideas and then dive into the book world’s best and worst moments. We share the thrill of meeting favorite authors and the sting of being blatantly ignored at a signing—eye contact made, greeting skipped—which opens a larger conversation about reader respect, author etiquette, and how small moments can change what we choose to support. If community is our shared bookshelf, basic kindness is the spine that holds it together.We recalibrate reading goals without shame, talk about why some of us pause in December, and lock in a group pick: a Kamala Harris audiobook that promises more lived-story than stump speech. That dovetails with our recent memoir streak—Dawn Staley, CeCe Winans—and the way leadership, faith, and grit echo across genres. On the screen side, we break down new TV returns and Lifetime’s Eric Jerome Dickey adaptations, plus the high stakes of casting when you already love a character on the page. Adaptations can miss or win, but either way they keep the culture talking.

What if love isn’t a feeling you chase, but a habit you practice when no one’s clapping? We open with everyday life—the books on our nightstands, the shows we debate—and move straight into four timeless lenses of love: storge (family), philia (friendship), eros (romantic), and agape (unconditional). From there, the stories get real. A blended family bond that formed fast and deep. An overnight hospital stay that proved care is warmer than the room. A messy, holy moment at work where quitting a second job became an act of self-respect—and praying for a frustrating manager became the stretch that faith demanded.We talk about love as action: listening without fixing, praying without fanfare, showing up with food, rides, and jokes when anxiety spikes. We wrestle with the tongue and what it means to speak in love when sarcasm comes easier. And we linger on long-suffering—patience as power—not the fragile kind, but the kind that refuses to retaliate even when you could. If you’ve ever wondered how to set boundaries without becoming bitter, how to bless people who drain you, or how to hold family close when the details are complicated, you’ll feel seen here.Scripture threads quietly through the stories—James on the tongue, John on God’s love, Luke on loving enemies, 1 Corinthians on patience—grounding practical wisdom in something deeper. The throughline is simple: love and limits belong together. Self-respect doesn’t cancel compassion. Mercy doesn’t mean silence about harm. It’s a lived tension we keep practicing with family, friends, coworkers, and ourselves until the habit feels like home.

Ever notice how some foods never seem to spoil anymore? The Hold Please crew dives deep into this modern mystery, questioning what manufacturers might be adding to our bread to extend shelf life beyond what seems natural. While some hosts report their cheese still molds quickly, others note how certain foods seem practically immortal compared to decades past – raising fascinating questions about our trade-offs between convenience and natural food processes.Relationship boundaries take center stage when the hosts tackle a provocative scenario: an ex-partner suddenly reaching out to attend a mutual friend's wedding together. The unanimous verdict? Absolutely not. This sparks a larger conversation about maintaining appropriate distance from past relationships, especially when both parties have moved on to new partners. The hosts don't mince words as they explore why such invitations are problematic and how to gracefully decline.Music lovers will appreciate the passionate debate about the top R&B artists of the last 25 years (2000-2025). From Usher's commercial dominance and consistent output to personal favorites like Jaheim, the conversation reveals how differently we evaluate artistic excellence. Some hosts prioritize commercial success and longevity, while others focus on personal connection to the music regardless of mainstream recognition – highlighting how our musical preferences form a deeply personal soundtrack to our lives.The episode closes with a powerful reflection on divine timing, as one host shares their repeated attempts to quit a second job, only to have circumstances consistently prevent it. What began as frustration evolved into recognition that perhaps these "coincidences" were actually guidance. This candid story reminds us all to sometimes surrender our rigid timelines and trust in the greater wisdom of patience and timing.Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts on bread preservation, awkward ex situations, your personal R&B top 25, or times when delays ultimately protected you from making the wrong move!

Ever wonder when is the right time to bring up major life decisions with someone you're dating? Or why some people just can't stand leftovers? This episode dives into the everyday and the profound as we catch up on our week and explore topics that matter. The conversation shifts as we share books that have mirrored our own life experiences - from a novel featuring a plus-size protagonist navigating dating challenges to Dawn Staley's "Uncommon Favor" and its message about breaking barriers while maintaining faith.The heart of this episode emerges when we tackle reproductive choices and bodily autonomy. We explore the complex dynamics of medical paternalism, societal expectations about parenthood, and the importance of respecting individual decisions about having child. 

We dive deep into our thoughts on the Family Business series finale on BET Plus, discussing how the TV adaptation compares to Carl Weber's original book and why most of us enjoyed the show more.• The stellar casting elevated the series beyond the book, especially David Banner's commanding performance• The show's ending deviates significantly from the book, creating an exciting cliffhanger that leaves viewers wanting more• Background music throughout episodes creates subtle atmosphere that enhances dramatic scenes• Character dynamics between spouses reveal tensions between providing materially versus emotional connection• Gabriel's obsession with Big Shirley demonstrates the dangers of fixation and how differently people interpret shared experiences• Chess-like power moves throughout the series show how quickly leverage can shift in business dealings• The portrayal of New Orleans culture makes viewers want to experience the unique city firsthandMake sure to join us for our upcoming discussion when Season 2 drops, and share your theories about who came through that door in the final scene!

Ever noticed how the media loves to paint everything in black and white? Literally. Our spirited discussion dives into the Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese rivalry that's dominating sports headlines, questioning whether this is truly about race or simply two competitive athletes who don't particularly like each other. We examine RG3's controversial comments and ask the deeper question: why can't we just let these talented women be competitors without forcing a racial narrative?Between fits of laughter and inside jokes that perfectly demonstrate our friendship, we share our current reading journeys and audiobook adventures. From A'ja Wilson's "Dear Black Girls" to Dawn Staley's "Uncommon Favor," we're absorbing wisdom from successful Black women who've blazed trails in their respective fields. There's something powerful about hearing these stories directly from the women who lived them—and we're soaking it all in.We celebrate a major milestone: our podcast being featured in not one but TWO magazines (Heat Seekers and Black Page Turners) just five months into our podcasting journey! This leads to a more personal health check-in, where we get real about monitoring blood sugar levels and how outward appearances don't always reflect our internal health metrics. And yes, we confirm what we all suspected—Pop-Tarts are indeed just "sugar formed in a square," delicious as they may be.

The magic of Abbott Elementary lies in its ability to blend laugh-out-loud comedy with heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with anyone who's spent time in a school setting.The conversation begins with passionate debates about favorite characters, with Ava Coleman's hilarious antics winning significant praise. Her character development throughout the season reveals surprising depth beneath her seemingly self-centered exterior, especially when she willingly takes the fall to protect her school's funding. We explore how Abbott Elementary masterfully portrays the often-overlooked but crucial roles within school environments. Mr. Johnson, the wise-cracking janitor, represents those unsung heroes whose impact on students extends far beyond their job descriptions. As one host points out, "Janitors, cafeteria workers, security guards – these positions are vital to a school's functioning, yet rarely receive the recognition they deserve."The episode also tackles the show's handling of real-world issues, particularly highlighting the banned books storyline that cleverly illustrates our tendency to condemn without proper investigation. This sparks a broader conversation about media literacy and how quickly misinformation spreads in today's digital landscape.Relationship dynamics get special attention, from Janine's awkward non-relationship with her ex-boyfriend to the developing romance between her and Gregory, culminating in that painfully relatable "meeting the parents" episode where she tries too hard to impress Gregory's father.

The Silent Patient is a shocking psychological thriller of a woman’s act of violence against her husband―and of the therapist obsessed with uncovering her motive.Alicia Berenson’s life is seemingly perfect. A famous painter married to an in-demand fashion photographer, she lives in a grand house with big windows overlooking a park in one of London’s most desirable areas. One evening her husband Gabriel returns home late from a fashion shoot, and Alicia shoots him five times in the face, and then never speaks another word.Alicia’s refusal to talk, or give any kind of explanation, turns a domestic tragedy into something far grander, a mystery that captures the public imagination and casts Alicia into notoriety. The price of her art skyrockets, and she, the silent patient, is hidden away from the tabloids and spotlight at the Grove, a secure forensic unit in North London.Theo Faber is a criminal psychotherapist who has waited a long time for the opportunity to work with Alicia. His determination to get her to talk and unravel the mystery of why she shot her husband takes him down a twisting path into his own motivations―a search for the truth that threatens to consume him

Will her actions save her marriage or destroy it?As a publicist for professional athletes, Antonio Vega is used to solving problems and spinning stories to the benefit of his clients. Yet he can’t seem to convince his wife that he has been and always will be faithful, and her lack of trust tests the limits of his patience.Cassidy Hawthorne-Vega grew up in a home rocked by infidelity. When she suspects her husband is hiding something from her, she takes drastic steps to uncover the truth. Her actions result in a confrontation that threatens the bond of their marriage. It’s only when she reveals a painful secret from the past that Cassidy learns to accept the love her husband freely gives.

Who doesn’t love a bad boy?Lorena Vega knows better than to have anything else to do with Matthew Hawthorne. Then he comes to her and asks for her help in writing a proposal for a grant to benefit the community center where he volunteers. She agrees to do the work, but she has her guard up, because having Matthew in her life again is a problem she doesn’t need.Matthew still carries some guilt from when he hurt Lorena. Seeing her again for the first time in months makes him realize what a huge mistake he made, and he wants another chance to be the kind of man she deserves. He’s determined to win her back and prove he’s not the player he used to be, and nothing will stand in his way.Not even the new man in her life.

Hating him is easy. Loving him is hard. Derrick Hoffman never quite got over not having a relationship with his biological father. The woman he was seeing is pregnant, and there’s no way he’s going to let her raise his child without him—even if it means coercing her into marriage. Eva Jacob made the mistake of falling in love with Derrick, a man she knows is incapable of love. After their breakup, she discovers she’s pregnant. When she agrees to a loveless marriage, she tries to shield her heart from further pain. But she soon discovers that the heart wants what the heart wants, and her heart wants Derrick’s love.

Can true love be found after one night of passion?Celeste Burton goes out with her girlfriends to celebrate turning thirty and winds up spending an unforgettable night with the man of her dreams. One week later, as a favor, she attends a wedding with a friend as his date and is shocked when she sees Roarke again.Roarke Hawthorne despises cheating. Cheating tore apart his family years ago. When the physics professor sees the woman he spent the night with show up at his sister's wedding on the arm of his brother, he knows he should keep his distance. But because of the night they set fire to the sheets in his hotel room, he can't resist the urge to be close to her—nor can he resist the temptation to have her back in his bed.

Explore the story of Leilani and Toby's past romance and their current complex relationship in 'More Than Friends: The Love & Music Suite Book 3', which discusses themes like neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and past trauma.A trip down Memory lane with self discovery. Explore a world in the eyes of adults who deal with Love, Past trauma and ADHDBest friends. Only one bed. What’s the worst that could happen?LeilaniToby and I dated in high school. The romance didn’t last, but I got a friend for life. I’m a session singer, he’s an A&R rep, and we live on opposite coasts. Still, we’ve been best friends since high school. Okay, yes there’s occasionally some innocent flirting, but nothing serious. Neither of us would risk our friendship by getting involved again. But one long overdue destination wedding, a petty prank by his scheming ex, and a little flirting turns into one incredible night. It was a mistake. And it definitely…probably…won’t happen again.TobyFor a long time, I accepted that Leilani and I were better as friends than lovers. But lately, our “innocent” flirtations incite the filthiest thoughts, and I can’t stop wanting her. When playful teasing turns to a heated kiss, it ends in a night neither of us will ever forget. Leilani declares it a mistake, but I propose friendship with benefits, and she agrees. But the truth is I can’t ignore my growing feelings for her anymore. I’m determined to prove that we could be so much more than friends and that taking a chance on finding forever is worth the risk.Content Notes:MORE THAN FRIENDS deals with a variety of issues that may be difficult for some readers. Please note that this story deals with the following:Neurodevelopmental disordersADHDPrison / Justice systemPhysical abuse describedExplicit languageExplicit love scenesAward-winning author Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional, “grown folks” romantic fiction. Her characters find love while navigating career crises and family drama. Her books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. Check out Reese Ryan and her catalog Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reeseryanwrites/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reeseryanwrites.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reeseryanwritesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReeseRyanWrites

Adventuring into one of many Christina C. Jones series we hope to read.

Join us as we discuss "Innocent Intent" where we dive deep into the thought-provoking themes and characters of the book. This episode explores the intricate layers of the narrative, examining the moral dilemmas, emotional conflicts, and the profound implications of human intentions. Through engaging discussions we seek to uncover the truth behind the title and what it means to act with innocence in a complex world. Whether you're a fan of the book or new to its story, this podcast invites you to reflect, question, and discover the innocent intents that shape our lives. Tune in for insightful conversations that will challenge your perspectives and spark your curiosity!

Discovered our fresh opinions on the season ending of 911 Long Star! You may laugh, cry and end think. But you certainly won't be disappointed! 

Ever found yourself skeptical about book-to-screen adaptations, only to be pleasantly surprised? That’s exactly what happened to our dear Raytasha in our latest episode, as we dive into the TV adaptation of "Family Business 7: New Orleans" on BET Plus. We uncover the series' remarkable faithfulness to the source material and celebrate standout performances, with Layla Rashawn brilliantly embodying Big Shirley. Even if you're not a fan of adaptations, you might just find yourself intrigued by the pacing and tantalizing future episodes we hint at.Join us in a lively discussion on character portrayals and casting choices that bring "Family Business 7" to life. From Pooch Hall's sometimes inconsistent scenes, especially with the voodoo woman, to David Banner's magnetic portrayal of Jean LeBlanc, we leave no stone unturned. We also share laughs over the allure of beignets amidst the drama, ponder about future character introductions, and scrutinize Sheriff Clay's storyline differences from book to show. It's a character analysis extravaganza with a side of New Orleans flavor!As we compare the TV show to the book, Marquise’s character stands out for a mix of candidness and respect in one memorable scene. We share our thoughts on Uncle Floyd's resilience lessons and explore our ratings, acknowledging the mixed feelings some of us have. Whether you’re team book or team show, we wrap up with a compelling discussion on Carl Weber's "Vote" and its adaptation, encouraging you to explore both mediums for a richer storytelling experience.

Do you remember your top 4 books from 2024? We do!!! Here are our reviews. 

We step into a new world of the Duncan family in New Orleans. See if we leave them where they stay?