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We argue about “song of the summer” rap because it can be fun and still shape how people see Black life. We want more balance so our community, especially our youth, gets room to be whole without letting the algorithm define us.  • summer heat check-in and what it does to energy and mood  • money talk and the Apple billing “cult” problem  • missing Pride and showing up while sick and overheated  • the question of where we want to go and what we want to see this summer  • why viral “scamming” lyrics hit so hard and spread so fast  • how social media marketing creates an echo chamber  • three perspectives at once: lived experience, detached listeners, outside stereotypes  • youth identity, mentorship, and why well-rounded exposure matters  • music with depth, autonomy, and how money pressures art  Send us individual DMs. Send the Highly Melanated group a DM. Email us.  Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

They told him he couldn’t even stand on the debate stage without raising $250,000 and he still made the ballot by grinding for signatures and showing up in the community. That’s where this conversation starts: what a grassroots congressional campaign actually looks like when you don’t have party insiders, big donors, or a political machine clearing the path for you.  We’re joined by Kyle Little, a small business owner, fitness professional, and adjunct professor running for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th congressional district. We talk honestly about being ignored by establishment players, how fundraising rules can silence first-time candidates, and why he believes the system rewards money more than ideas. Kyle also lays out the policies he’s running on, including a $20 minimum wage, universal health care, free childcare, student loan debt forgiveness, and a $25,000 grant for first-time homebuyers, all through the lens of what working people feel every month when rent, debt, and costs keep climbing.  We also get into the hardest questions he faces on the trail, especially the war in Gaza, how quickly “truth to power” turns into labels, and what it means to represent a diverse district while staying principled. And as an openly gay Black man, Kyle explains why representation matters while still keeping the focus on serving everyone and being accountable every two years.  If you care about voting rights, primary elections, affordability, and breaking the pay-to-play model in American politics, press play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a reason to vote, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

We start with hilarious travel talk and end up doing the kind of honest mental health check-in many of us keep putting off. We name what’s heavy, what helps us cope, and what we’re proud of surviving right now without pretending everything is fine.  • Spirit Airlines shutdown reactions and what budget travel stress looks like  • Frontier flight horror stories and why “cheap” can feel expensive  • big family moments and the pressure of showing up  • guilty pleasures as real coping tools, from comfort rewatches to ambient videos  • why predictability calms anxiety and how we each self-soothe  • a mental health check-in sparked by a real conversation about needing community  • loneliness, burnout, and balancing work with creative goals  • depression framed as a signal and a prompt to ask what is missing  • boundaries that protect energy, like leaving work on time  • rating day-to-day happiness and naming what’s sitting heavy  • what it means to say “I’m good” while you’re struggling  • one thing we’re proud of making it through right now  Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

We talk about how people get boxed into labels and why social media makes judgment feel like a public hobby. We unpack the KevOnStage backlash, church culture, and what it looks like to share honest opinions without acting like we’re better than anyone.  • getting tagged as “the Greek person” or “the campus org person” based on visibility  • why formative years lock people into a box  • updates on our shows, sold-out runs, and behind-the-scenes moments  • choosing to be outside more and what loneliness sounds like out loud  • the KevOnStage discourse and why “leading with love” triggers outrage  • church, LGBTQ people, and the pressure to condemn instead of care  • how comment sections reward chaos and kill nuance  • the difference between judging a person and critiquing an action  • “unapologetically me” versus learning better delivery  • why some people renounce BGLO ties publicly and what they might be chasing  Check it out on all platforms where podcasts are available. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

The world feels loud right now, and sometimes it’s hard to remember there’s still good happening every day. We start where a lot of us are living: irritated by endless spam calls and texts, side-eyeing how our data gets used, and asking why peace is always behind a paywall. From there, we get real about politics and the specific way Black women get treated when they’re the most qualified person in the room, including a viral clip that puts the country’s sexism and racism on full display. Then we shift the energy on purpose. We check in about life, travel chaos, and the behind-the-scenes reality of trying to stay consistent as creators while life keeps happening. And we bring back a grounding prompt: tell us one feel-good moment you’ve seen lately. That opens the door to stories that actually restore you, from innovative “smart city” solutions like Sweden training crows to clean up trash, to the joy of watching Black kids create art, perform, and speak truth about their own communities. Finally, we turn the studio into a full-on trivia arena with Highly Melanated Jeopardy: Black music lyrics, meme knowledge, Black household rules, Black TV and movies, and acronyms that will either humble you or make you feel seen. The rules are chaotic, the laughter is constant, and the takeaway is simple: fun is not frivolous, it’s survival. If you laughed, learned, or felt a little lighter, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave us a review. What question would you have gotten right, and which one would’ve taken you out? Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

We weigh the viral $300K dating rule against real-life alignment, then celebrate Black representation that turns “not our lane” into everyday excellence. From Cool Runnings to indie projects, we connect money talk, standards, and the power of visibility. • unpacking the $300k dating myth and lifestyle matching • financial insecurity, boundaries and who pays when • long-distance costs and sustainable expectations • standards versus self-inventory and alignment • Cool Runnings and Black excellence in unlikely spaces • Dominique Dawes, Black rock bands and genre freedom • radio voices, media seats and women leading • community, invitations and what we build next Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

We hold space for grief, name the compassion gap, and still choose joy. Music, health, routine, and community become tools to slow down, show up, and build a life that feels like ours. • naming the weight of public violence and empathy burnout • finding joy again through concerts and daily music rituals • health wake-up calls, meds, food, sleep, gentle routines • comfort zones, control, and letting others help • procrastination as fear; early starts and tiny rewards • saying no, planning better, and protecting energy • repairing bonds, hearing other truths, choosing closure • honoring community connectors and everyday impact • presence over pace; time as precious Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

Happy Thanksgiving To Everyone!! in this episode we comprise our own list on who is coming to dinner and what are they bringing.   Would you come to eat at the manor? Who would be your guest? Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

As a licensed Funeral Director and Pre-planning expert, Shawnette Mitchell comes to the Melanin Manor to talk about the ins and outs of planning for the inevitable. This is a real conversation about what no one wants to ever really talk about.  Planning for a funeral is a hard time in someone's life but it's a necessity of life.   Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

There's something powerful about returning to a space that feels like home. After a brief hiatus, the Highly Melanated Podcast crew reunites with renewed energy and deeper perspectives on life, legacy, and the impact we leave behind. The episode opens with celebration as Chris (RED) shares his triumphant debut in classical theater, performing the leading role in Antigone. His cohosts beam with pride, having witnessed his command of complex language and powerful stage presence. Chris's willingness to step into character and deliver a spontaneous monologue showcases not just his artistic growth, but the evolution of someone who's found confidence in exploring new creative territories. When the conversation shifts to conspiracy theories, what begins as lighthearted banter about moon landings and aliens transforms into a thoughtful examination of information versus misinformation. This becomes particularly poignant as the hosts process the reported passing of Malcolm Jamal Warner. The heart of this episode beats strongest during reflections on mortality and purpose. Blair's perspective that "everyone is put on this earth for a reason, and when you've achieved that purpose, there's no reason to be here anymore" sits alongside PJ's observation that "how you live in life is how you're celebrated in death." These aren't just philosophical musings but invitations to consider our own legacies. What makes this episode exceptional isn't just the topics but the genuine vulnerability with which they're discussed. Through personal stories of loss and remembrance, the hosts create a space where difficult conversations feel not just possible, but necessary. Join us for this soul-stirring return episode, and perhaps take a moment afterward to ask yourself: What legacy are you creating with each day you're given? Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts – your perspective might be exactly what another listener needs to hear. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

What does Black television reveal about our culture, and how has its evolution shaped the way we see ourselves? When the hosts of Highly Melanated reunite after a brief hiatus, they dive deep into the powerful impact Black sitcoms have had across generations. Their conversation traces the journey from Family Matters to Insecure, examining how each era of Black television addressed specific cultural needs and challenged prevailing narratives. The 80s and 90s sitcoms deliberately showcased stable Black family structures to counter harmful stereotypes, creating spaces where Black families could see themselves reflected positively on screen. Shows like The Cosby Show and Family Matters didn't just entertain – they modeled constructive approaches to real-world problems that resonated with viewers gathering around their television sets. As the conversation shifts to present-day Black television, the hosts identify a striking pattern: the rise of complex Black women's stories. Series like Girlfriends, Insecure, and Harlem have centered educated, independent Black women navigating love and career while simultaneously addressing broader cultural issues like gentrification. These shows embrace messier narratives and eschew simple moral lessons, reflecting our community's growing comfort with complexity. Looking toward television's future, the hosts envision programming that addresses the mental health crisis affecting Black communities. They lament the premature cancellation of promising Black shows while celebrating the enduring role of music in Black storytelling – from iconic theme songs to the showcasing of emerging Black musical talent. This thoughtful analysis of Black television's past, present, and future reveals how these shows serve as both mirror and window, validating our experiences while offering visions of what could be. When Black creators control our narratives, the result isn't just entertaining – it's revolutionary. What shows made you feel truly seen? Join the conversation by following us on social media and subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

Ever noticed how your perfectly reasonable parenting suggestions get immediately dismissed with "You don't have kids, so you wouldn't understand"? The Highly Melanated Podcast team tackles this frustrating double standard head-on, creating what they call a "safe space where it's okay to judge each other's parenting skills, even though we're not parents." This episode dives deep into the unspoken rule that childless adults should keep their parenting opinions to themselves, regardless of how logical or helpful those insights might be. Blair, PJ, and Chris share personal stories of times they've wanted to offer advice but hesitated, knowing their childless status would automatically disqualify their viewpoints in many parents' eyes. They explore scenarios that test these boundaries – from witnessing neglectful parenting on public transportation to deciding when (if ever) it's appropriate to intervene when seeing troubling parent-child interactions in public spaces. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is how the hosts connect their theoretical parenting approaches to their own upbringings. PJ reveals how his strict father influences his hesitancy to become a parent himself, while Chris reflects on how more structure during his college years might have benefited him. Blair shares the contradictory messages she received about independence from her parents, highlighting how our childhood experiences inevitably shape our views on child-rearing whether we become parents or not. The conversation takes fascinating detours into cultural differences regarding adult children living with parents, gender disparities in parenting expectations, and even pet parenting as a microcosm of human parent-child dynamics. By the episode's end, they reach a universally agreed-upon piece of advice – "let your children have more fun" – while acknowledging the irony that even this simple suggestion would likely be scrutinized coming from non-parents. Ready to hear all the parenting opinions non-parents are usually too afraid to share? Listen now, and then join the conversation about whether parenting advice requires firsthand experience to be valuable. Subscribe, share your thoughts, and let us know if you've ever been on either side of this parenting advice divide! Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

We discover how differently we receive and process apologies through a quiz that reveals our "apology languages" - similar to love languages but focused on how we prefer people to express remorse. • Exploring the five apology languages: accepting responsibility, making restitution, expressing regret, genuinely repenting, and requesting forgiveness • Realizing that most of us need more than just "I'm sorry" - accountability and action matter most • Discovering that PJ and Chris value direct admission of fault as their primary apology language • Learning that Blair needs concrete actions to make things right after someone apologizes • Finding connections between how we receive love and how we receive apologies • Noticing how certain apology phrases can feel passive-aggressive or put unfair burdens on the hurt person • Discussing how repeated apologies without change become meaningless • Celebrating Jane Kennedy, one of the first Black women sportscasters, for Women's History Month Take some time to discover your own apology language by taking the quiz on the Five Love Languages website - understanding how you and your loved ones prefer to receive apologies can transform your relationships. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

Financial freedom is about facing uncomfortable truths and taking actionable steps to change your habits. In this episode, we share crucial insights about spending, saving, and investing wisely.  In the Highly Melanated Manor we have the pleasure to introduce a special guest, Sha-Rhonda Wilson, Lifestyle Coach & Business Consultant. to help with a few tips and on how to make your money work for you and not waste it away. • How sales can sometimes lead to unnecessary spending  • The reality of relying on credit cards for emergencies  • Importance of building a solid emergency fund  • Reflecting on choices showcased through spending  • Discussing financial control and investment strategies  • The need for open conversations about money within communities  • Understanding the basics of strategic investing  • Budgeting as a key tool for financial security Sha-Rhonda has worked with Terry Ellis of En Vogue with her perfume line.  Southern Exposure and has worked as an Independent Contractor for Mano.  Swartz Furs; a furrier company which has been in business for over 134 years.  in Baltimore, Maryland! She coordinated the Baltimore, Maryland leg of a 25 City Book Tour for Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire - who wrote the novelization to Soul Food the movie and sold over 200 books at the premier city book tour. Sha-Rhonda was formerly the Executive Consultant to What About US!, a teen talk show on Baltimore Cable Access; a successful Event Planner with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and a Development Associate with WEAA Radio Station in Baltimore, Maryland. Sha-Rhonda has also secured a radio show segment for Dr. Levi Harrison NPR Affiliate station WEAA 88.9FM called “The Art of Fitness.”  Working with Artist and Vocal Percussionist Rahzel – a ‘Disciple’ of Hip Hop band The ROOTS, she has negotiated international business deals and traveled around the world with him as a Road Manager. >> Sha-Rhonda Wilson's Contact Email Info Link Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]

Ever wondered what truly defines a thirst trap? We've got you covered as we explore the playful nuances of these social media phenomena. Join us on a lively journey through sweet debates over soda flavors and nostalgic cultural nods that will have you craving a trip down memory lane. As we groove into the heart of Black History Month, we share personal stories and memorable pop culture moments, celebrating the rich tapestry of melanin and authenticity that defines us. Imagine being behind the scenes at "Saturday Night Live" with the thrill of celebrity encounters and the creativity required to bring each sketch to life. We relive the electrifying energy of working alongside icons like Meryl Streep, sharing our aspirations and the dedication it takes to illuminate the SNL stage. Our stories of turning ideas into action and reflecting on small victories remind us of the blend of challenge and excitement in our everyday lives. Influence isn't just about numbers; it's about authenticity and impact. We untangle the concept of influence, distinguishing it from mere imitation, and delve into the responsibility that comes with affecting others. Through personal anecdotes and insights into powerful performances by artists like Kendrick Lamar, we celebrate the profound power of art and individuality. As we wrap up with humor and unity, embrace the unique expressions that make life so enriching and join us in a heartfelt farewell that radiates peace, love, and laughter. Follow US IG:  https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @[email protected]