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In this episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Grammy Award-winning songwriter, entrepreneur, and entertainment powerhouse Kandi Burruss pulls up for an unfiltered, hilarious, and insightful conversation. Kandi opens up about the real reason she walked away from Real Housewives of Atlanta, reality TV, and leaving a massive bag on the table. Plus, navigating single life and her dating non-negotiables after divorce, celebrating 15 years of Bedroom Candy, and what it takes to build lasting business longevity. Plus, she shares stories from her Xscape days, mentoring rising star Jada, breaking records on Broadway, and why protecting her peace comes first. CHAPTERS00:00 – Welcome & Opening Banter04:15 – Serial Entrepreneurship & Broadway Ambitions07:00 – Building Bedroom Candy & 15 Years of Business Longevity14:45 – Life After Divorce & Modern Co-Parenting22:30 – Single Life & Dating Standards: Financial Stability vs. Communication30:00 – Xscape History, Girl Group Lessons & Mentoring Jada41:00 – Navigating Reality TV & The Real Reason Behind Walking Away58:00 – Money Lessons, Splurges & Giving Flowers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of On The Spot, Rickey Smiley sits down with two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, four-time Undisputed World Champion, and the self-proclaimed G.W.O.A.T, Claressa Shields. Claressa gets candid about her journey growing up in Flint, Michigan, overcoming childhood trauma, and rising to the top of the boxing world. She dives into her high-profile relationship with Papoose, shares her honest perspective on transgender athletes in women's sports, and reflects on celebrity boxing matchups. Plus, she discusses the making of her biopic The Fire Inside, her deep-rooted faith, pre-fight rituals, and what continues to fuel her greatness both inside and outside the ring. CHAPTERS00:00 - Preview & Welcome to On The Spot02:00 - Claressa Shields Joins Rickey Smiley04:15 - 19 World Titles & 4-Time Undisputed Champion05:37 - How Her Dad Inspired Her to Start Boxing08:10 - Learning From Her First Loss & Olympic Gold11:32 - Flint Roots, Childhood Hardships & Family Drive14:07 - In the Ring: Fighting Danielle Perkins17:32 - What Fighters Actually Look At During a Bout18:40 - Corner Realities & Hilarious Pre-Fight Rituals21:38 - Trash Talk, Savannah Marshall & Ring Beef24:15 - Are a Boxer’s Hands Really "Lethal Weapons"?27:03 - Work Ethic, Camp Diet & Soul Food Cravings29:32 - Rickey & Claressa Plan a Home-Cooked Meal32:40 - Dealing with Trolls & Being the "Beyoncé of Sports"36:30 - Overcoming Insecurities & Creating Her Own Blueprint39:50 - Meeting Papoose & Keeping the Romance Secret43:20 - Who Made the First Move?47:05 - Claressa on Writing Her Song "Faithful" for Papoose54:25 - How Papoose Brings Out Her Soft Side & Future Plans55:55 - The Rise of Celebrity & Influencer Boxing59:15 - Perspective on Transgender Athletes in Combat Sports01:01:18 - Making Her Biopic The Fire Inside01:06:30 - Rapid Fire Questions, Oxtail Recipe & Gospel Favorites See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Master P sits down with Rickey Smiley for a conversation about ownership, legacy, music and the mindset that helped him turn No Limit into an empire. From opening his first record store at 19 and selling CDs out of his trunk to negotiating the groundbreaking 85/15 distribution deal, Master P breaks down why ownership has always mattered more than looking successful. He also talks about investing in the next generation, why artists need to learn the business before it’s too late and bringing No Limit and Cash Money together for a tour rooted in peace, mental health and celebrating their legacy while they’re still here. This is Master P beyond the music! The businessman, mentor and one of hip-hop’s original architects of independence. CHAPTERS00:00 – Highlights & Teaser01:28 – Welcome Master P to On The Spot03:12 – Selling Music Out the Trunk & The Historic 85/15 Deal07:34 – No Limit & Cash Money Tour & Uniting for Mental Health10:43 – Why "The Turtle Always Wins" in Business12:20 – Faith, Family & The Power of Grandparents' Love15:35 – Lessons in Ownership & Making Tough Boss Decisions17:01 – Financial Literacy & Common Mistakes Entertainers Make20:30 – Building New Empires: Footwear, Foods & Rap Snacks21:28 – Update on C-Murder & Family Resilience23:08 – Fatherhood, Discipline & Raising Student-Athletes29:38 – Overcoming Grief, Loss & Protecting Mental Strength35:51 – The Truth Behind "How Ya Do Dat" & The Bass Player41:33 – Only God Can Judge Me Movie & Life Journey45:49 – Rapid Fire Questions & Consistency Advice See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedian, writer, musician and radio personality Rita Brent sits down with Rickey Smiley for a conversation filled with laughs, honesty and a few stories only these two could tell. Rita opens up about growing up in Mississippi, her journey from Army musician to stand-up comedian, coming out and navigating her relationship with the church. She also talks about learning from Rickey Smiley and Cedric the Entertainer, writing for major award shows and turning rejection from opportunities like Saturday Night Live and Netflix into motivation to create her own late-night show. From cancel culture and the state of comedy to divorce, faith, HBCU pride and betting on yourself, Rita proves there’s a lot more behind the laughs. CHAPTERS(00:00) - Welcome to Rickey Smiley On The Spot(02:34) - Raised by Three Generations of Women in "Jacktown" (Jackson, MS)(04:51) - Music & Serving in the Army Band(06:33) - From Basketball "Sharpshooter" to Class Laugher(08:40) - Church Antics & The "Jesus Calling" Prank(13:13) - Getting Started in Stand-up(14:58) - Learning from Cedric the Entertainer(17:37) - Coming Out On Stage(24:21) - Jackson State University & The Sonic Boom of the South(28:33) - Pledging Delta Sigma Theta(31:10) - Rickey and Rita's First Meeting(33:55) - The Magic of "Fix It Jesus"(35:32) - Cancel Culture & Policing Comedy(37:24) - Mental Health & Finding Grace in the Industry(39:31) - Late Night with Rita Brent: Choosing Yourself(44:50) - Lightning Round See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Alduan Tartt sits down with Rickey Smiley for a powerful conversation about mental health, faith, trauma and the pressure so many people, especially men, carry in silence. Dr. Tartt breaks down why men struggle to identify and express their emotions, how unresolved trauma can show up as anxiety, hypervigilance and even physical pain, and why getting help doesn’t make you weak. Rickey also opens up about his own grief following the loss of his son, the memory issues he’s experienced since, and the pressure of having to make people laugh while carrying unimaginable pain behind the scenes. From grief and depression to therapy, faith, rest and healing, this is a conversation about giving yourself permission to be human. CHAPTERS(00:00) - Introduction to Dr. Alduan Tartt(01:21) - Bridging the Gap: Faith-Based Clinical Psychology(03:43) - Dr. Tartt’s Journey into Psychology(05:11) - Why Pastors Face a Higher Risk of Suicide(08:22) - Breaking the Silence on Mental Health in the Church(09:47) - The Danger of Keeping Deep Family Secrets(12:05) - Hurt People Hurt People: The Cycle of Trauma(14:18) - Overcoming Alexithymia: How to Name Your Emotions(16:58) - Understanding Anxiety & Social Media Scrutiny(19:22) - The "Lizard Brain" & How Trauma Impacts Safety(21:14) - Hyper-Vigilance: Surviving Flight, Fight, or Freeze(24:41) - Grief & Memory Loss: Rickey’s Personal Journey(28:10) - The Critical Link Between Sleep & Mental Health(31:02) - The Hidden Cost of Performative Masculinity(42:13) - Vital Resources: 988 Helpline & Finding Help See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toya Johnson Rushing joins Rickey Smiley for a deeply personal conversation about her journey from the spotlight of reality TV to a life centered on "protecting her peace." Toya opens up about the evolution of her motherhood, the distinct differences in how she raised Reginae versus Reign, and the importance of having a partner like Robert "Red" Rushing who truly makes her feel "seen and heard." This episode goes beyond the headlines, offering a rare look at the woman behind the entrepreneur and the strength it took to navigate fame while building a legacy of her own. The conversation takes a raw and emotional turn as Toya discusses the profound loss of her two brothers and her ongoing journey through grief. She shares how she turned her pain into purpose through her "Weight No More" health initiative and gives a transparent look at her co-parenting relationship with Lil Wayne. From hilarious stories about "giving the eyes" in Vegas to powerful insights on faith and resilience, this episode is a masterclass in growth, grace, and knowing your worth. CHAPTERS(0:00) - Introduction: Toya Johnson on Growth and Peace(4:46) - New Orleans Roots: Family Recipes and Mother Nita’s Gumbo(5:44) - Leaving Reality TV: Why Toya Prioritizes Her Peace(10:06) - Parenting Journey: Differences in Raising Reginae vs. Reign(12:00) - The Reality of TV Editing: Protecting Your Narrative(18:14) - Finding True Love: The Story of Toya and Red(27:40) - Overcoming Grief: Healing After the Loss of Her Brothers(35:11) - Co-Parenting with Lil Wayne: Respect and Maturity(38:45) - Health & Wellness: The Weight No More Initiative(50:14) - Lightning Round: Fun Facts and Toya’s Favorites See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Atlanta legend Young Dro joins Rickey for a raw and unfiltered conversation. Dro opens up like never before about his early days in Bankhead, the incredible success of "Shoulder Lean," and the life-altering moment he was shot at point-blank range at 15. He also shares the reality of his battle with addiction, surviving multiple overdoses, and how he’s now using his story to give back through his nonprofit, "It Still Takes a Village." From his legendary "honey hot lemon pepper" wing order to his upcoming projects with TI and Metro Boomin, this is a story of ultimate resilience. CHAPTERS(00:00) – Welcome to the Show: Young Dro in the Building(03:50) – Redefining Success and the "Dead Fresh" Era(04:14) – Celebrating 20 Years of Atlanta’s Trap Scene(06:00) – From Church Choir to Rapping on Desks(08:25) – Growing up in Bankhead and New York Influences(08:35) – A Life-Altering Shooting: Survival and Recovery(11:52) – The 30-Inch Rim Era and Atlanta Club Culture(14:34) – Discipline in the Studio vs. Past Addictions(21:50) – Business Lessons from T.I. and Grand Hustle(27:15) – Surviving Overdoses and Reclaiming His Legacy(34:55) – Giving Back: The "It Still Takes a Village" Nonprofit See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this emotional and wide-ranging episode of "On The Spot," Rickey Smiley sits down with R&B legend and "New Jack City" star Christopher Williams. Christopher opens up about his incredible journey, from being the biological nephew of jazz icon Ella Fitzgerald to his harrowing experience surviving a coma and learning to walk again. The two discuss the magic of the '90s New Jack Swing era, the "shenanigans" of artist development, and the importance of ownership in the music business. Christopher also shares powerful stories about his faith, his upbringing in the Bronx, and why he chose to carve his own path despite his legendary family ties. CHAPTERS00:00 - Introduction to Christopher Williams 08:05 - Family History: Adoption and the Church 13:00 - The Story Behind the Hit Song "Dreaming" 15:00 - How Wesley Snipes Helped Christopher Get Discovered 19:45 - The Truth About Aunt Ella Fitzgerald 26:50 - The Reality of Artist Development 32:20 - Surviving a Coma and Learning to Walk Again 33:40 - The Cultural Legacy of New Jack City41:15 - Music Business Scams and Forged Signatures 43:10 - Rapid Fire: Love, Dating, and '90s Crushes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this high-energy episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, I sit down with one of the most outspoken and resilient voices in hip hop—the legendary Boosie Badazz. Boosie doesn't hold back as we dive deep into his life, starting with our hilarious rivalry over LSU vs. Alabama. Boosie opens up about the trials that have tested his faith, from his time on death row and battling cancer to the shocking $600,000 pardon scam that made headlines. We also get a look at the man behind the music, as Boosie shares his philosophy on being a "Super Dad," the secret to his famous noodles and eggs, and why he’s determined to build a legacy for his family on his own terms. Whether it's the global impact of "Wipe Me Down" or the weirdest bookings he's ever received (yes, including a funeral), this interview is raw, real, and on the spot! CHAPTERS00:00 - The Realest in the Game: Boosie Badazz02:28 - LSU vs. Alabama: The Ultimate Football Beef06:03 - Why Boosie is Unbannable & Being Your Own Boss07:54 - Saints vs. Falcons: The Deep History of the Rivalry10:18 - Walking Out the Tigers in Death Valley13:30 - Reconnecting with the Teacher Who Saved Him16:04 - From First Performance to Stardom18:07 - Being a "Super Dad" & Co-Parenting21:20 - The Secret to Boosie’s Famous Noodles & Eggs22:53 - Inside the Boosie Estate: Buying Up Land26:08 - Growing Up in Baton Rouge & Overcoming Poverty30:42 - Faith, Church, and Surviving Life’s Tests36:52 - The Truth About the Pardon & Legal Battles47:48 - The Global Impact of "Wipe Me Down"49:40 - The Weirdest Bookings: Funerals & Bonfires See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, Rickey Smiley sits down with licensed psychotherapist and media personality, Spirit, for a raw conversation about the reality of mental wellness. Following the loss of his son, Brandon, Rickey opens up about his own journey through grief, while Spirit provides expert insight into how we can all process pain, set healthy boundaries, and break generational cycles. Spirit breaks down the crucial difference between "mental health" and "mental wellness," explaining why your body stores every life experience—and what happens when trauma goes unprocessed. From the "loneliness epidemic" to the hidden costs of survival mode, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to reclaim their joy and understand the science of healing. CHAPTERS00:00 - Welcome To The Rickey Smiley On The Spot05:30 - Common Signs of Stress, Depression, and Trauma06:40 - How Your Body Stores Unprocessed Life Experiences08:05 - The Long-Term Cost of Staying in Survival Mode09:20 - Rickey Smiley Opens Up About Personal Grief and Pain12:20 - Understanding Early, Middle, and Terminal Insomnia15:15 - Navigating Guilt and Anxiety After Losing a Loved One18:05 - What is Grief Disorder and Ambiguous Loss?22:15 - Why Somatic Processing is Essential for Releasing Trauma26:00 - Using Therapy as a Safe Space to Reclaim Your Joy32:40 - The Impact of Parasocial Relationships and Lack of Empathy35:20 - Analyzing Generational Trauma: From Boomers to Gen Z38:50 - How to Set Healthy Boundaries for Self-Preservation46:25 - Addressing the Toxicity of Hazing in Private Organizations56:45 - The Loneliness Epidemic and Its Physical Consequences See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when Rickey Smiley sits down with Lil Rel Howery and Karlous Miller? The interview lasts about five seconds before it turns into a full-blown roast session. In this hilarious episode of Rickey Smiley: On The Spot, the comedians trade jokes, relive unforgettable moments from their careers, and share behind-the-scenes stories from their new film, Hunted Heist. From Rickey's iconic prank calls and legendary comedy characters to the mentors who helped launch their careers, this conversation is packed with laughter, nostalgia, and genuine respect among three comedy veterans. Lil Rel and Karlous also open up about their journey through stand-up, Hollywood, and the importance of staying authentic while building lasting careers in entertainment. Along the way, they reveal hilarious stories from set, discuss working with an all-star cast, and prove why chemistry between comedians can never be scripted. CHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction & Roasting the Outfits 02:08 - Rickey Smiley Gets Roasted (05:10) - How Ricky Got on Def Comedy Jam (06:17) - Welcoming Lil Rel Howery & Karlous Miller 08:08 - Iconic Prank Calls & Grandma’s Favorites (10:13) - Haunted Heist: The New Film (13:19) - The Legend of Big Chris & Instagram (15:07) - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Breakdown (16:11) - The Tahoe Boat Disaster (18:10) - Lil Rel on Directing His First Feature (21:13) - Shooting in Barry Gordy’s Mansion (22:34) - The Story of the Dragging Dog (29:40) - Misconceptions About Comedians (40:04) - Transitioning from Stand-up to Film (58:20) - Dealing with Loss & Finding Humor in Grief (01:13:30) - Future Legacy & "Haunted Heist" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Da’Vinchi sits down with Rickey Smiley for an honest and inspiring conversation about faith, mental health, purpose and the decisions that shaped his journey from poverty to Hollywood.Best known for his roles as Terry Flenory on BMF and Darnell Hayes on All American, Da’Vinchi opens up about starting his career in music, transitioning into acting and why he ultimately became uncomfortable with the messages he was being encouraged to promote through his songs.Da’Vinchi reveals that although he has experienced arrests and sold drugs in his past, that lifestyle did not create his success. Changing his life, strengthening his faith and educating himself are what helped him move forward. He explains why he refuses to glorify the very circumstances he had to overcome and why portraying a character is different from personally promoting a destructive lifestyle. The actor also discusses the intentional thought behind the roles he accepts, landing his breakthrough opportunities on Jessica Jones, All American and BMF, and the responsibility he feels to tell stories without losing himself in the characters. Da’Vinchi and Rickey also dive deeply into mental health, emotional discipline, technology, depression and the importance of preparing your mind to handle loss, change and life’s inevitable challenges. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Momma Dee joins Rickey Smiley On The Spot for one of her most candid and entertaining interviews yet. From the phone call that launched her reality TV career to the real meaning behind her iconic phrase "In That Order," Mama Dee reflects on motherhood, fame, music, faith, and her unwavering love for her son, Scrappy. She also shares the inspiration behind her new food truck, her favorite family recipes, and why she believes protecting your children never stops, no matter how old they become. CHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction to Mama Dee The Queen of Reality TV(02:12) - Family Update: Grandkids and Lil Scrappy(03:22) - Cooking Secrets: Momma Dee’s Famous Recipes(07:35) - Momma Dee’s New Purple Food Truck(10:44) - How Reality TV Fame Started: The Soulja Boy Drama(16:22) - The Rocky but Loving Relationship with Scrappy(19:12) - Unforgettable "Love & Hip Hop" Moments & Catchphrases(27:31) - Rapid Fire Questions: Late Nights and Pet Peeves(33:39) - The Secret Kool-Aid Ingredient See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Rickey sits down with legendary R&B artist Montell Jordan for one of his most transparent conversations yet. Known worldwide for creating one of the biggest party anthems of all time, "This Is How We Do It," Montell reflects on the highs of superstardom, the pressures that came with early success, and why he believes fame didn't prepare him for the responsibilities of being a husband and father. Montell also shares the emotional story behind his prostate cancer diagnosis, how he broke the news to his wife, and why he's now committed to encouraging men to prioritize their health. From music and ministry to marriage and purpose, this episode is filled with wisdom, laughter, and unforgettable moments including a hilarious conversation about bringing back the original church communion crackers. CHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction & The Impact of "This Is How We Do It" (06:42) - Fame, Family, and Early Lessons (10:03) - Church Roots & Musical Foundation (13:43) - The Turmoil of Two Worlds: R&B vs. Ministry (18:24) - Musical Inspirations: From Stevie Wonder to Prince (22:54) - Bringing "Light" to the World: Faith on Stage (31:40) - The Love Story of Montell and Kristin Jordan (45:09) - A Journey Through Prostate Cancer (01:00:46) - A Mandate for Health: Advocacy & Early Detection (01:02:18) - New Chapters: Books, Movies, and Rapid Fire See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Eric Bellinger joins Rickey Smiley for an honest conversation about the realities of songwriting, balancing artistry with business, navigating grief, and building a career on his own terms. From writing chart-topping records for some of the biggest names in music to opening up about losing his mother and embracing a new chapter with a major label partnership, Eric shares the experiences that shaped both the artist and the man behind the hits.   CHAPTERS (00:00) - Intro & Eric Bellinger Welcome (00:00) - Intro & welcome to Grammy award-winning Eric Bellinger. (02:40) - Eric’s Songwriting Catalog for icons like Brandy, Justin Bieber, and Chris Brown. (05:31) - Musical beginnings in the church and early R&B influences. (11:45) - Visiting the Jackson family home and its impact. (20:09) - Working with Beyoncé and the lessons learned about being himself. (24:28) - Thoughts on Artificial Intelligence in music. (26:34) - Family life, fatherhood, marriage, and being present (32:11) - Dealing with the loss of his mother and the therapeutic power of music. (38:58) - Starting his own label, All Wins Entertainment, and finding new talent. (43:15) - His upcoming self-titled album. (44:54) - Fan pet peeves and wild experiences. (47:55) - Rapid-fire questions: Tour riders, go-to vocal songs, and food preferences.   ABOUT THE PODCAST Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.