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In this episode of On The Spot, Rickey Smiley sits down with the self-proclaimed King of R&B, Jacquees, for an honest, hilarious, and wide-ranging conversation. Looking back on their shared history from school tours to early television moments, Jacquees opens up about his journey from east Atlanta to the top of the charts. He reflects on his creative evolution—from dropping classic mixtapes in his early twenties to navigating fatherhood, maturity, and stepping into the studio with a completely new mindset. The energy stays high as Jacquees shares unforgettable, untold stories—from wild dating escapades involving high-speed chases to touching memories of his bond with the late Rich Homie Quan. Rickey and Jacquees dive into Atlanta’s legendary music scene, church choir roots, and what it really takes to hold your own among the greats. Plus, hear Jacquees settle the debate on his personal R&B Mount Rushmore and what it truly means to turn big dreams into reality. CHAPTERS(00:00) - Intro(01:41) - Rickey Smiley Welcomes Jacquees to On The Spot(03:06) - 10-Year Anniversary of "Mood" & Re-Releasing Classic Mixtapes(05:32) - The Creative Evolution Behind "Mood 2"(06:22) - Growing Up in Atlanta & Early Musical Influences(09:48) - Singing in Church, Dottie Peoples & First Studio Demo(13:12) - Dating Realities & High School Popularity(17:25) - Jeep Culture, Rubicon vs. Gladiator & Ducking Stories(19:34) - Relationship Red Flags & Dating Standards(22:00) - The Crazy Atlanta Car Chase & Stolen Car Escape Story(30:08) - Performing Live: LA, Chicago & Favorite Tour Cities(35:46) - Signing to Cash Money & Working with Birdman(38:15) - Remembering Rich Homie Quan & Brotherhood(44:31) - Addressing King of R&B & Naming R&B Mount Rushmore(46:26) - Embracing Fatherhood & Co-Parenting His Son Snow See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yandy Smith sits down with Rickey Smiley on Rickey Smiley On The Spot for an unfiltered, hilarious, and eye-opening conversation about her life, career, and rise in the entertainment industry. Yandy breaks down the true origins of the Love & Hip Hop franchise, revealing how managing Jim Jones and documenting his family dynamic led to a project that reshaped reality television. She gets candid about the high-stakes music business, sharing wild survival stories from her days at Violator Management—including narrowly missing an office shooting during the 50 Cent era and outsmarting a dangerous setup on tour. Beyond the drama, Yandy shares invaluable business lessons on contracts, missed royalties, and why understanding entertainment ownership early on is vital for creators. Plus, the conversation takes a hilarious turn when family takes precedence over everything—watch Rickey pause the entire show to make sure Yandy’s son gets his lunch money and a popsicle. From reality TV triumphs to heartfelt life advice, this is a deep dive with Yandy Smith you don't want to miss! CHAPTERS(00:00) - Introduction & Welcome Yandy Smith(04:02) - How Love & Hip Hop Really Started(08:03) - Interning at Violator & Linking with Mona Scott-Young(11:15) - Growing Up in Harlem & The Power of HBCUs(16:19) - Advice for Women Executives in Entertainment(17:34) - Reality TV vs. Real Life & Handling Online Hate(21:14) - What Her Kids Really Think of Her Fame(25:25) - Building YELLE Skincare & Bloomingdale's Success(27:50) - Opening Novo Miami & Her Favorite Dishes(32:00) - Saying Goodbye to Love & Hip Hop & Mama Dee Stories(37:21) - The Harsh Business Lesson on Contracts & Ownership(44:32) - Executive Producing Indie Bosses (Featuring Coach Trina)(50:00) - Surviving the Violator Office Shooting(52:45) - Uncle Rickey Pauses the Show for Lunch Money(59:04) - Outsmarting a Hotel Setup & Managing Jim Jones on the Road See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keri Hilson sits down with Rickey Smiley for an honest conversation about the highs, heartbreaks, and lessons behind her journey in music. She opens up about going from writing hits for some of the biggest names in the industry to becoming a star herself, the impact of “Pretty Girl Rock,” and why she ultimately stepped away from music at the height of her career. Keri also gets personal about losing her father, navigating grief, and reaching a point where she felt “scorned” by the dream she once loved. Plus, she shares the unbelievable story of being scheduled to meet Michael Jackson the very day he passed away, the song she gave to Kehlani that she almost kept for herself, and what it took to finally rediscover her love for music. Now, Keri Hilson is entering a new chapter with "We Need to Talk" and a renewed perspective on life, love, and the industry that shaped her. CHAPTERS(00:00) - Intro & Welcoming Keri Hilson(04:44) - Writing Hits for Britney Spears, Ludacris & Mary J. Blige(11:14) - Singing in Church & Early Roots(17:50) - Creating the Anthem "Pretty Girl Rock"(19:53) - Losing Her Father, Grief & The Healing Power of Therapy(24:22) - Lessons in Tenacity from Competitive Sports(29:21) - The $30,000 Late-Night Basketball Bet Story(37:15) - Navigating Industry Pressure & Feeling Like a "Human Robot"(40:37) - "If Music Can Heal, Music Can Harm": Art & Influence(43:32) - Stepping Away & Falling Back in Love with the Craft(48:04) - Advice for Rising Artists & Navigating the Business(55:07) - Island Living in the Bahamas & Finding Peace(1:04:18) - Lightning Round: Influences, André 3000 & Lauryn Hill(1:12:30) - The Story of Almost Meeting Michael Jackson & Outro See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.