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BOOK'EM WITH XEROPRIME 99 | STR8UP SHOW PODCAST | SEASON 10 Reading is fundamental, but are we doing enough to encourage the next generation to pick up a book? The Str8Up Show Podcast introduces Book'Em, a new segment dedicated to celebrating authors, writers, poets, and the power of literature. For our inaugural installment, Calvin welcomes back longtime friend of the show Dorsey, better known as XeroPrime 99, to discuss his transition from gaming enthusiast and storyteller to published fantasy author. XeroPrime 99 takes us inside his creative process, explains why he wanted to develop fantasy worlds featuring characters who reflect Black culture, and discusses the importance of making literature exciting and accessible to younger generations. IN THIS EPISODE: Why Calvin created the Book'Em segment to spotlight authors and encourage literacy.The growing concern surrounding reading proficiency and literacy in our communities.How an elementary school assignment inspired XeroPrime 99's lifelong passion for writing.The connection between video games, anime, fantasy literature, and original storytelling.The inspiration behind Dreadwake, a horror fantasy adventure blending online gaming, artificial intelligence, and real-world consequences.Exploring The Unimaginable Realm of Prime: Origins Volume One, a collection of six stories featuring superheroes, assassins, and fantasy adventures.Why Black representation, natural hair textures, cultural identity, and diverse characters are important in fantasy literature.Introducing How to Become a Thief: The Black Paw Method, a fantasy adventure featuring a goblin and a mysterious raccoon.Overcoming writer's block and learning to finish a story before worrying about editing.Encouraging aspiring writers and young creators to take positive risks and share their work.A special reading from Lyrical Flux, a space adventure described as Romeo and Juliet meets Bonnie and Clyde.BOOKS DISCUSSED: DreadwakeA horror-inspired fantasy adventure exploring what happens when an artificial intelligence begins influencing the direction of an online game.The Unimaginable Realm of Prime: Origins Volume OneSix interconnected stories set in the fictional world of Prime, featuring the cities of New Saint and Nocturne, with superheroes, assassins, and culturally inspired characters.How to Become a Thief: The Black Paw MethodA fantasy adventure set in Nocturne following a young goblin whose encounter with a mysterious raccoon leads him into the world of thievery.BONUS READING: LYRICAL FLUX Stay tuned for a special reading from Lyrical Flux, a science fiction adventure combining romance, danger, and space exploration. FOLLOW XEROPRIME 99 TikTok: @XEROPRIMEInstagram: @BOOKS_BY_XEROPRIME99 BOOKS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON Search for XeroPrime 99 and his published titles on Amazon. CONNECT WITH STR8UP Website: https://str8upshowpodcast.com Catch up on previous episodes, discover more guest stories, and explore the conversations that make Str8Up a platform for culture, creativity, and authentic storytelling. ABOUT BOOK'EM Book'Em is a Str8Up Show Podcast segment highlighting authors, poets, and storytellers whose work deserves to be discovered. From emerging independent writers to established literary voices, Book'Em celebrates the imagination, culture, and experiences behind the stories we read. Have a story to tell or a book to share? Connect with the Str8Up Show Podcast for future guest opportunities. Remember, there's only one rule to our show. You gotta be Str8Up!

DJing is more than selecting songs. It's about understanding music, connecting with audiences, and mastering your craft. IN THIS EPISODE: DJ IC3's journey from house parties to the FIFA World CupHer friendship and professional relationship with Snow Tha ProductEssential DJ equipment, Serato, and music pools for beginnersUnderstanding BPM, musical keys, and seamless transitionsReading the crowd and playing across different genresOvercoming challenges as a woman in the DJ industryPerseverance, chasing dreams, and the emotional power of musicRESOURCES MENTIONED: Serato DJ: https://serato.comDJcity: https://www.djcity.comShazam: https://www.shazam.comFOLLOW DJ IC3 TikTok: @DJ_IC3_Instagram: @DJ.IC3 CONNECT WITH STR8UP SHOW PODCAST Website: https://str8upshowpodcast.com

On this episode of Str8Up, mother and daughter authors Jhordynn and Charity Grace join us for a powerful conversation about literacy, education, representation, and the importance of embracing our differences. From America's literacy crisis and reading comprehension challenges to bullying, self confidence, and inclusion, we explore how storytelling can inspire meaningful change. Jhordynn shares her experiences as an author, her perspective on literacy in Black and Brown communities, and the inspiration behind her writing. Young author Charity Grace discusses her passion for creating stories that encourage children to celebrate what makes them unique. SPECIAL FEATURE: Charity Grace closes the episode by reading a portion of her children's book, I'm Different and I Love Me! BOOKS FEATUREDJhordynnScrape It Out with a Spatula! Charity GraceI'm Different and I Love Me!Come Play with Me! FOLLOW JHORDYNNFacebook: @JHORDYNN Instagram: @JHORDYNN_WRITES TikTok: @GHOSTWRITERJHORDYNN YouTube: @JHORDYNN.WRITES FOLLOW CHARITY GRACEFacebook: @CHARITYGRACE Instagram: @AUTHORCHARITYGRACE TikTok: @AUTHORCHARITYGRACE YouTube: @AUTHORCHARITYGRACE LISTEN, WATCH & SHAREEnjoyed this episode? Share it with a parent, educator, aspiring author, or anyone who believes in the importance of reading and representation. Subscribe to the Str8Up Show Podcast for more conversations that educate, challenge perspectives, and inspire change.

After living in the United States for 35 years, Danny's life changed when he was taken into immigration custody and spent 178 days in detention before being deported to Mexico. In this episode of the Str8Up Show Podcast, Danny shares his firsthand account of life inside immigration detention, including the conditions he experienced, the physical and emotional toll of being detained, and the moment he learned he was being deported. Danny also takes us beyond detention and into what happened next. He discusses being released at the border, arriving in a country he had not lived in since he was three years old, adjusting to life in Mexico, reconnecting with the culture and figuring out what starting over looks like after 35 years in the United States. Day 179 represents more than the day after detention. It marks the beginning of an entirely different chapter of Danny's life. FOLLOW DANNY TikTok: @danny_darkooo SUPPORT DANNY CashApp: $Dannyortiz87

Goldiee joins the Str8Up Show Podcast for a candid conversation about living with albinism and the misconceptions that often come with it. Goldiee opens up about growing up Black with albinism, the bullying she experienced as a child, and the assumptions people have made about her appearance, eyesight, abilities and identity. She also discusses representation of people with albinism in movies and television, dating, confidence, self image and why educating others about albinism is important to her. Through the challenges, Goldiee shares how she learned to stop wishing she looked different and fully embrace who she is today. Her story is a conversation about albinism, but also about confidence, perspective and learning to love what makes you different. FOLLOW GOLDIEE INSTAGRAM: @GOLDIEE.X2XTIKTOK: @GOLDIEE.X2X SUPPORT GOLDIEE CASH APP: $g0ldieex2x

Orlando Delcid left El Salvador at seven years old and grew up in Houston, Texas. Decades later, he returned to the country of his birth and is now seeking the presidency with Fraternidad Patriota Salvadoreña, or FPS. In this episode, Orlando shares his experience immigrating to the United States as a child, the teacher whose kindness had a lasting impact on his life, and the role faith has played in shaping his path. The conversation also explores Orlando’s vision for El Salvador, including creating jobs and investment, expanding opportunities for Salvadorans, strengthening the country so people do not feel forced to leave in search of opportunity, and encouraging Salvadorans abroad to bring their knowledge and experience back home. Calvin also presses Orlando on current U.S. immigration enforcement, whether a seven year old Orlando arriving in America today would have the same experience he did, and how his years living in the United States influence his perspective on immigration. Finally, Calvin asks a question Orlando may face throughout his campaign: after spending most of his life in America, why should Salvadorans trust him to understand and lead El Salvador? Topics Discussed Orlando’s childhood in El SalvadorImmigrating to America at seven years oldGrowing up in HoustonFaith and public serviceReturning to El SalvadorWhy Orlando entered politicsJobs and investment in El SalvadorThe Salvadoran diasporaU.S. immigration enforcementSalvadorans returning homeU.S. and El Salvador relationsWhy Salvadorans should trust his leadershipOrlando’s vision for El Salvador

On this edition of Music Monday, we turn the spotlight on RenRiot, a Black, queer, female alt-rock/grunge-punk band from Washington, D.C. Blending the vulnerability of emo, the grit of grunge, and the energy of punk and alternative rock, RenRiot is creating music rooted in raw emotion, personal experiences, and a desire to make space for voices and perspectives that haven’t always been centered in rock. IN THIS EPISODE We talk with RenRiot about: The origin of RenRiot and how the band came togetherDeveloping a sound that blends alt-rock, emo, grunge and punkTheir experiences as Black women making rock musicNavigating intersectionality as Black and queer artistsRepresentation and creating space within the alternative music sceneBreaking expectations surrounding what a rock band is “supposed” to look and sound likeUsing vulnerability and personal experiences as inspirationHow music can become an outlet for identity, emotion and self-expressionBuilding RenRiot’s sound, chemistry and creative directionWhat’s next for the bandSPECIAL PERFORMANCE  The conversation doesn't end with the interview. RenRiot closes out this edition of Music Monday with a special performance of their new song, “Hunt You Down.” ABOUT RENRIOT RenRiot is a Black, queer emo soft-grunge band from Washington, D.C., blending raw emotion and vulnerable lyricism with influences from alternative rock, grunge, emo and punk. Their music combines nostalgia with a perspective and sound distinctly their own. FOLLOW RENRIOT WEBSITE: WWW.RENRIOT.NOISEYARD.COMINSTAGRAM: @RENRIOT.WAVTIKTOK: @RENRIOTBANDBANDSINTOWN: @RENRIOT

Season 10 of The Str8Up Show Podcast begins with the return of immigration attorney Carla Casas for an important conversation about the changing immigration landscape in America. With immigration continuing to dominate national headlines and the midterm elections approaching, Carla joins Str8Up to help separate legal realities from political rhetoric, misinformation, and social media speculation. IN THIS EPISODE: • Changes affecting U.S. immigration law and policy• What immigrant families should know right now• Immigration enforcement and ICE• Detention and due process• Understanding your legal rights• Common misconceptions surrounding immigration• How changing policies affect immigrant communities• The importance of seeking accurate legal information• Immigration and the national political conversation• What could happen as the country approaches the midterm elections ABOUT OUR GUEST Carla Casas is an immigration attorney and returning guest of The Str8Up Show Podcast. Through Casas Immigration Law, Carla and her team work with individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration system. CONNECT WITH CARLA CASASInstagram: @immigration.attorney.carlaYouTube: @AbogadaCarlaCasasTikTok: @AbogadaCarlaFacebook: Casas ImmigrationWebsite: www.casasimmigration.comFlorida Office: 407-205-9358Chicago Office: 312-971-7221

When most people think of movies set in Las Vegas, they picture the bright lights, casinos, and chaos of the Strip, not an action-packed thriller buried deep in the Nevada desert. But that’s exactly where filmmaker Mark D. Bonner takes us in his gripping new suspense film, Rear Desert. In the Season 9 finale of The Str8Up Show Podcast, we sit down with the award-winning filmmaker to discuss the creative journey behind Rear Desert , from the inspiration that sparked its intense storyline to the powerful themes that drive its emotional core. Mark opens up about what it takes to bring bold ideas to life on screen, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and how audiences are already responding to his work with high praise. Whether you’re a movie lover or an aspiring filmmaker, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and storytelling wisdom straight from one of the industry’s most passionate voices. Watch Rear Desert here: https://bit.ly/49kqO8m Follow Mark D. Bonner: Instagram – @RearDesert | @TheMindOfMFilms

America is facing deep political division. Republican vs. Democrat, Left vs. Right. But what will it truly take for us to come together as one nation again? On this episode, former California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto sits down with host and special guest co-host Joey for an honest conversation about America’s current political climate. From the challenges facing both major parties to the growing frustration among citizens, Mike shares his perspective on what’s fueling the divide and outlines practical steps everyday Americans can take to ensure their voices are heard by elected officials. Follow Mike Gatto: Website – www.mikegatto.com Twitter – @MikeGatto Follow Joey: TikTok – @joey_doesit

On this explosive episode of Str8Up, we host a live TikTok debate that dives into South Park’s most controversial episode yet, the one where they suggest Donald Trump made a deal with the devil. Trump supporters and critics go head-to-head as we unpack the satire, political commentary, and whether the show finally crossed a line. But that’s not all, we also break down a shocking new report involving Ghislaine Maxwell and the possibility of limited immunity in the ongoing fallout of the Jeffrey Epstein case.

With the recent changes to birthright citizenship, naturalized citizens now facing possible deportation, and the “big, beautiful bill” now passed, what’s next for immigration in America? After a powerful and eye-opening first appearance, immigration attorney Carla Casas returns to break down the latest developments surrounding mass deportation and reacts to ICE becoming one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the U.S. Abogada Casas also answers real immigration questions submitted by our viewers, offering valuable insights and must-know information for families and individuals navigating today’s immigration system. Follow Carla Casas: Instagram – @immigration.attorney.carla YouTube – @abogadacarlacasas TikTok – @abogadacarla Facebook – Casas Immigration Website – www.casasimmigration.com

June 11th and 12th, 2025, a night Las Vegas streamer Karlin Martinez will never forget. What began as a peaceful anti-ICE protest ended with flashing lights, handcuffs, and a viral TikTok Live that left viewers stunned. But what really happened that night? We sit down with Karlin’s attorney, Stephen Stubbs, who breaks down the shocking chain of events that could’ve landed the U.S.-born streamer in serious trouble with ICE. Stubbs also shares vital information about what rights you do and don’t have while attending protests in today’s America. Follow Karlin on TikTok: @itsmztoonz Follow Stephen Stubbs: Website: www.bowtiejustice.com YouTube: @StephenPStubbs Phone: (702) 759-3224

We dive into the Trump Administration’s renewed crackdown on undocumented immigrants. With ICE ramping up nationwide enforcement and families being torn apart, fear is rising and so are protests across the globe. Immigration Attorney Carla Casas joins us to unpack the chaos. She breaks down President Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, explains what they really mean for those living undocumented in the U.S., and shares crucial legal advice for those at risk. Carla also offers actionable ways for communities to stand up, speak out, and support those living under constant threat of detention. This is a must-listen episode that hits at the heart of justice, humanity, and the future of immigration in America. FOLLOW CARLA CASAS: Instagram – @immigration.attorney.carla YouTube – @AbogadaCarlaCasas TikTok – @abogadacarla Facebook – Casas Immigration Website – www.casasimmigration.com

Being a Black man in America isn’t just difficult, it’s a daily struggle often overlooked. But when life gets heavy, where can Black men turn? Where are the safe spaces that remind them they’re not alone? We sit down with Dr. Maurice Ball, community leader and life coach, for an honest conversation about the pressures Black men face, breaking generational trauma, and the importance of older Black men living with purpose to uplift future generations. This powerful discussion is one you don’t want to miss. FOLLOW DR. MAURICE BALL Instagram: @cmauriceball1 YouTube, TikTok, Facebook: @cmauriceball Podcast: Open For Discussion