
Generation Varied
35 episodes

S2 Ep 12Luka Trade, Grammys Recap, and the Legendary Onijah
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb, Ben, and Jack discuss a variety of topics ranging from the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics, their personal health journeys, and a recap of the recent Grammys. They delve into iconic moments of betrayal in storytelling, particularly in movies and sports, before exploring the shocking NBA trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis. The conversation shifts to the viral sensation Onijah Robinson, who found herself in a bizarre situation in Pakistan, demanding financial assistance and making headlines. The hosts reflect on cultural perceptions and hospitality, concluding with insights on the importance of asking for what you want in life.

S2 Ep 11The Journey of Bodybuilding and Self-Competition
SummaryIn this episode of the Generation Buried podcast, host Caleb Norris and co-hosts Ben and Jack discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal updates, cultural traditions, and the importance of relationships. They delve into Abigail Okenge's journey in bodybuilding, the challenges faced in the fitness industry, and the significance of vulnerability and transparency in sharing personal experiences. The conversation also touches on the importance of education and self-competition in fitness, as well as advice for women looking to get started in the gym. The episode concludes with reflections on relationships and the value of mutual growth.

S2 Ep 10From Sports Triumphs to Political Reflections
SummaryIn this episode of Generation Varied, hosts Caleb, Ben, and Jack discuss a range of topics from personal updates and sports victories to mental health and the impact of AI in broadcasting. They reflect on the recent presidential inauguration and Trump's executive orders, exploring their implications on civil rights and immigration. The conversation takes a lighter turn as they delve into the cultural phenomenon of Kidz Bop, examining its influence and relevance in today's music landscape.

S2 Ep 9Football, Fatherhood & Friendships
SummaryIn this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb, Ben, and Jack discuss a variety of topics ranging from the excitement surrounding the Ohio State Championship, the NFL playoffs, and the phenomenon of scripted moments in sports. They delve into the dynamics of friendship and the importance of honesty, before exploring the rise of the Ball family in pop culture and sports. The conversation wraps up with reflections on future fatherhood aspirations and the values they hope to instill in their children.

S2 Ep 8LeBron James & The Four-Day Work Week
In this episode of Generation Varied, the hosts discuss a range of topics from the recent snowfall in DC to the cultural significance of LeBron James' birthday celebrations. They delve into the upcoming movie releases, expressing their opinions on the state of superhero films and the future of cinema in the streaming age. The conversation shifts to the political landscape, focusing on immigration policies and the divisive rhetoric surrounding H1B visas, particularly in light of Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial statements. The episode concludes with a discussion on Japan's declining birth rates and the cultural factors contributing to this issue, emphasizing the need for systemic change.

S2 Ep 72025 Trends: What’s In and What’s Out
In this episode of the Generation Vary podcast, hosts Caleb Norris, Ben Okenge, and Jack Widener reflect on their personal experiences over the past year, discussing the challenges and achievements of 2024. They share insights on what trends to expect in 2025, including cultural commentary on what's in and out. The conversation also delves into the importance of media literacy in today's information age and the significance of networking and preparation for career paths post-college. The hosts emphasize the value of community engagement and invite listeners to share their thoughts and topics for future episodes.

S2 Ep 6It's the most wonderful time of the year
In this festive episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb, Jack, and Ben share their personal updates, favorite Christmas movies, and gift-giving ideas. They reminisce about nostalgic Christmas memories, discuss the changes in the college football playoff system, and make predictions for the upcoming games. The conversation flows seamlessly from holiday traditions to personal anecdotes, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere for listeners.

S2 Ep 5Spotify Wrapped, Meme Coins & Capsule Wardrobes
In this episode of the Generation Vary podcast, hosts Caleb Norris, Jack Widener, and Ben Okenge discuss a variety of topics ranging from the holiday spirit and music preferences to the implications of Neuralink and the influence of fashion in their lives. They share their experiences with Spotify Wrapped and Apple Replay, delve into the world of internet personalities, and explore the controversial realm of cryptocurrency and meme coins. The conversation also touches on the future of technology with Neuralink and its potential impact on society. Finally, they reflect on their fashion influences from high school to their current wardrobe choices, highlighting the importance of comfort and functionality in their style.

S2 Ep 4Black Friday, Ohio State Football & Credit Card Points
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb Norris, Jack Widener, and Ben Okenge reflect on their Thanksgiving experiences, discuss the evolution of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping, delve into the intense rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan, explore the reasons behind conflict avoidance in modern interactions, and share tips on how to travel smart using credit card points.

S2 Ep 3Kendrick, Elon & Mental Health
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb Norris, Ben Okenge, and Jack Widener discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal updates and mental health during the holiday season to the latest Kendrick Lamar album and Elon Musk's new role in government. They delve into the implications of Musk's involvement in government efficiency, share their thoughts on maintaining fitness goals during the holidays, and analyze the cultural relevance of baseball, particularly in light of the recent World Series. The conversation emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sports and the need for a more engaging approach to attract younger audiences.

S2 Ep 2Casseroles, Interest Rates & Boxing
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, hosts Caleb, Jack, and Ben discuss a variety of topics ranging from Thanksgiving traditions and casserole culture to the ethics of regifting. They delve into the implications of recent interest rate changes on home ownership and explore the controversial concept of the Enhanced Games, a new sporting event that allows performance-enhancing drugs. The conversation wraps up with a review of Netflix's boxing event featuring Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, highlighting the mixed reactions from viewers and the potential future of live sports streaming.

S2 Ep 1Did you miss us? Let's catch up.
In this episode of Generation Vary, hosts Caleb, Jack, and Ben reunite for the start of Season 2, discussing their personal updates, including Ben's intense bodybuilding journey, Caleb's move from New York, and Jack's experiences at the Olympics. The conversation shifts to the recent election results, analyzing Trump's surprising victory and its implications for the political landscape. The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about Young Thug's release from jail and his cultural significance in the hip-hop community.

Who is Ben Okenge?
🎙️ In our season finale, "Who is Ben Okenge?" we delve into the fascinating life story of our very own host. Ben shares his rich background, growing up in Africa and various other countries, attending international school, and the influences of his diverse family. Get to know the man behind the mic, his opinionated and sometimes abrasive demeanor, and the experiences that shaped him. Don't miss this insightful and personal episode!

Who is Caleb Norris?
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, the hosts and producer introduce themselves and discuss what's been going on in their lives. They also delve into a conversation about Caleb's journey of self-discovery and authenticity, particularly in relation to his faith and sexuality. Caleb shares his experiences growing up in an evangelical church and the struggles he faced in coming to terms with his sexuality. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and the process of becoming one's most authentic self. In this conversation, Caleb and Jack discuss their experiences with faith and how it has shaped their lives. They explore the idea of questioning beliefs and the importance of humility in one's faith journey. Caleb shares the impact of his first boss, his college professor, and his mentor on his personal growth. They emphasize the value of doing no harm, valuing mutuality, and rejecting power dynamics in relationships. The conversation ends with a reminder to be open to learning from others and to live authentically.

S1 Ep 23Who is Jack Widener?
In this episode of Generation Vary, the hosts discuss various topics including the NBA playoffs, the importance of listening, and the impact of different cultural experiences. Jack Widener, one of the co-hosts, shares his background growing up in Taiwan and the influence of living in an orphanage. He emphasizes the value of listening and community, drawing from his experiences in Taiwan and the international school he attended. The hosts also discuss the disparities in socio-economic situations and the opportunities available in America. Overall, the episode highlights the power of listening, the impact of cultural experiences, and the importance of seizing opportunities.

S1 Ep 21Sore Losers, Pickleball & Healthy Habits
In this episode, the hosts discuss their personal goals and habits for fitness. They emphasize the importance of being honest with oneself, lifting heavy weights, having a plan, tracking food and water intake, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. They also express their desire to compete in a gladiator-style obstacle race as a team. In this conversation, the hosts discuss their experiences with sports and competition. They talk about being sore winners and sore losers, and share stories of people who have had extreme reactions to losing in sports. They also discuss the importance of being a team player and the challenges of playing team sports. The conversation then shifts to a discussion about Ohio and its love for sports, particularly football. The hosts express their pride in the podcast and their excitement for the future.

S1 Ep 19Drinking Culture, Healthcare Fraud & Impactful Films
SummaryThe hosts discuss their recent experiences and preferences for dining out, including their go-to meals and side choices. They also explore the topic of alcohol bans and restrictions at global sporting events, such as the recent ban on alcohol at the World Cup and the UEFA European Championship. They share their thoughts on the cultural differences in drinking habits between different states in the US and different countries around the world. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the topics of alcohol sponsorship in sports, fraud in the healthcare industry, and movies that have sparked meaningful conversations. They explore the potential impact of alcohol sponsorship on sports events and the evolving regulations around it. They also delve into the case of Dunn Health, a telehealth startup accused of participating in a scheme to distribute Adderall online. The hosts share personal experiences with ADHD treatment and the challenges of accessing mental health drugs. Lastly, they discuss movies like Inside Out and how they have sparked conversations about emotions, sense of self, and the importance of human connection.

S1 Ep 18Tree Planting, Metrosexuality, Super Teams & Denominations
The conversation covers topics such as metrosexuality, environmental initiatives, and cultural differences in environmental awareness. It also delves into personal experiences with tree planting and the impact of individual actions on the environment. The hosts share insights on green policies, recycling, and the cultural attitudes towards environmental conservation in different regions. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including environmental responsibility, personal beliefs, denominations in Christianity, and the impact of super teams in sports. It delves into the themes of environmental consciousness, religious upbringing, denominational identity, and the influence of super teams in sports culture.

S1 Ep 17Pride Month, Volleyball & Tourism
In this episode, the hosts discuss their personal experiences and favorite movies of the year. They also talk about the growing popularity of women's sports and the Pro Volleyball Federation. The hosts express excitement for the future of women's sports and the opportunities it provides for female athletes. They also discuss the importance of Pride and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community. Caleb celebrates Pride to honor the LGBTQ ancestors who fought for their rights. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the good and the bad and coming together as a community. His favorite part of Pride is spending time with loved ones, while his least favorite part is the discourse and negativity surrounding the event. The conversation then shifts to Japan blocking off a viral Instagram location near Mount Fuji due to disruptive tourism. Ben and Jack share their top places to take touristy photos, including Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and Christ the Redeemer in Rio. They also discuss pet peeves when it comes to tourists not respecting local customs and culture.

S1 Ep 16Fast food, NBA playoffs & OpenAi
In this episode of the Generation Vary podcast, the hosts discuss their favorite fast food chains and NBA playoff memories. They also share their top NBA players they've enjoyed watching throughout their lives. They reflect on the changing of the guard in the NBA as younger players take the spotlight. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the impact of younger players and teams in the NBA playoffs. They also talk about the future faces of the league and the rise of streaming services. The conversation then shifts to the use of AI in daily life and the introduction of new AI tools.

S1 Ep 15Rap Beef Wrapped
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, the hosts discuss the Kendrick Lamar versus Drake beef. They start by sharing their go-to date spots and then dive into the history and significance of both artists. They highlight Drake's influence in the music industry and his ability to put artists on the map. They also discuss the recent criticism Drake has faced and his reputation as a culture vulture. They explore the scuffles Drake has had with other artists, including Pusha T and Meek Mill. The hosts also touch on Kendrick Lamar's philosophical approach to his music and his lyrical genius. They mention the songs that have made an impact over the years and the significance of the J. Cole reference to the 'big three' in hip-hop. The episode ends with anticipation for the ongoing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. The conversation revolves around the ongoing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. The participants discuss the hits and impact of both artists, as well as the perception and worship of Kendrick. They also analyze the timeline of diss tracks and responses, highlighting the moments that shifted the balance in favor of Kendrick. The discussion touches on the significance of Kendrick's lyrics and his ability to create hits. The participants debate the reasons why Kendrick won the battle, including his ability to make songs that resonate with listeners. The conversation revolves around the Drake vs Kendrick Lamar rap beef. The participants discuss the different diss tracks released by both artists and analyze their lyrics and impact. They debate who won the beef and share their personal highlights from the situation. The conversation also touches on loyalty, the importance of escapism in music, and the role of character assassination in rap beefs. Overall, the participants appreciate the entertainment value of the beef and acknowledge that both artists have benefited from it.

S1 Ep 14Summer essentials, Civil War & College protests
The hosts discuss their favorite summers and reflect on the possibility of a civil war in America. They also touch on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the campus protests happening across universities. The conversation explores the importance of protest etiquette and the effectiveness of protests on college campuses. The hosts share their personal experiences with protests and discuss the role of universities in setting rules for protests. They also discuss the impact of political statements by institutions and the need for clear guidelines for protests. The conversation then transitions to a lighter topic, with the hosts sharing their five essentials for an amazing summer.

S1 Ep 13Nike, Non-competes & Drag Race
In this episode, the hosts discuss their recent creative project weekend workshop and the rap beef that continues to escalate. They also talk about the WNBA draft and the record-breaking contract signed by Kaitlyn Clark with Nike. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the lack of signature shoes for black WNBA players and the controversy surrounding non-compete agreements. They also touch on the significance of RuPaul's Drag Race and the artistry of drag. The conversation highlights the need for representation and equality in various industries.

OJ Simpson, Olympic games & Inflation
In this episode, the hosts discuss recent feedback from listeners and share some compliments they received. They then talk about personal updates, including Jack's wife accepting a new job in DC. The conversation shifts to the recent news about OJ Simpson and his denial of having cancer. The hosts also discuss Drake's leaked diss track and the ongoing feud in the rap industry. They analyze the lyrics and debate whether Drake's claims are valid. The episode concludes with a discussion about Rick Ross's response to Drake's diss track and his accusation that Drake had a nose job. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the recent beef between rappers Rick Ross and Drake, as well as the topic of inflation and its impact on the economy. They also talk about the upcoming Team USA basketball roster for the Olympic Games and the excitement surrounding it. The hosts share their thoughts on these subjects and provide insights into their personal experiences and perspectives.

S1 Ep 11Female rap, Sports traditions & Rivalries
In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including moving, the movie Dune, the rap beef between J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, and recent music releases. They also touch on the controversy surrounding J. Cole's diss track and his subsequent apology. The conversation concludes with a mention of upcoming music releases and rumors of a breakup within the City Girls. In this conversation, Caleb and Jack discuss the current state of female rap and its significance in the music industry. They explore the history of female rap, highlighting influential artists such as Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott, and Nicki Minaj. They also discuss the beefs and rivalries within the genre, including the ongoing feud between Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion. The conversation then transitions to a discussion about golf and the upcoming Masters Tournament, where they share their personal experiences and favorite sports traditions.

S1 Ep 10Ben's frontal cortex, Women's sports & COWBOY CARTER
episode 10!

S1 Ep 9Diddy raid, MLB gambling scandal & Diss tracks
In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including the NCAA bracket update, the Shohei Otani MLB gambling scandal, impactful athletes, the P. Diddy raid, and the lawsuits against him. They provide updates on their NCAA brackets and share their thoughts on Otani's performance and the translator scandal. The hosts also discuss the impact of athletes like Lionel Messi and Kobe Bryant. They delve into the details of the P. Diddy lawsuits and the allegations against him, and share humorous reactions and memes circulating on social media. In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including P. Diddy's neighbor, international crime, living with a clean conscience, Metro Boomin's album, and Kendrick Lamar's diss track. They speculate on future responses and anticipate a collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and Cardi B. The hosts also give shoutouts to Aubrey Graham, Metro Boomin, and their grandmother.

S1 Ep 8March Madness, Dune & Ai
In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including the movie Dune, March Madness predictions, sports betting, and drama in the AI space. The conversation explores Elon Musk's motive behind suing OpenAI, the violation of agreements, and the concerns about profit versus safety in AI development. It also discusses Microsoft's role and the potential implications of the lawsuit. The impact on Sam Altman and OpenAI's reputation is considered, along with the challenges of transitioning out of college. The importance of networking and finding your first job is highlighted, as well as the need to know yourself and set boundaries. The rule of going where you are appreciated and focusing on positivity and helping others is emphasized.

S1 Ep 7Dune, Colorism & Supplements
In this episode, the hosts discuss the effects of Daylight Savings and their thoughts on the movie Dune. They also explore their own biracial identities and the concept of colorism. The conversation delves into the history and impact of colorism in the American context, as well as the privilege associated with lighter skin. The hosts share their personal experiences and perspectives on identity and location. The episode concludes with a discussion on supplements and their role in enhancing one's diet. In this conversation, Ben and Caleb discuss the importance of prioritizing real food over supplements and the rationale behind taking supplements. They also play a game called 'Check It or Chuck It' where they review different supplements. Finally, they share their personal engagement with the Oscars and discuss how the movie industry is changing.

S1 Ep 6Covid-19, March Madness, Mentors & Dune
In this episode, the hosts reflect on their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it had on their lives. They discuss the start of the pandemic, the lockdown measures, and the personal challenges they faced. The conversation then shifts to March Madness and the excitement surrounding the tournament. The hosts share their favorite teams and discuss whether they prefer upsets or big name schools in the tournament. They also highlight some storylines to watch in this year's March Madness. Finally, they discuss the importance of coaching and mentorship in sports and in life. In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of mentors and share their personal experiences with mentors who have had a significant impact on their lives. They highlight the qualities of effective mentors and provide advice on finding and building mentorship relationships. The conversation then shifts to the sci-fi film Dune, praising its visual appeal and storytelling. The hosts encourage listeners to watch the film and share their thoughts and topics for future episodes.

S1 Ep 5'Are you blacker than a 6th grader?' World Cup & Alabama IVF Ruling
In this conversation, the hosts and guest play "Are you blacker than a 6th grader?" They also briefly discuss the upcoming World Cup in 2026, which will be hosted by three countries. In this conversation, the hosts discuss their World Cup memories and the impact of the World Cup on American soccer culture. They also talk about the recent Alabama ruling on IVF. The conversation ends with big announcement.

S1 Ep 4NASCAR, Men's Mental Health & Embracing Vulnerability
In this episode, the hosts are joined by special guest Jess Ballard, a podcast host and manager for Travis Braden Racing. They discuss Jess's introduction to racing and the different racing series in America. They also explore the challenges of tapping into the younger generation and the state of men's mental health. This conversation explores the rise of social isolation among men and the harmful effects of patriarchy on their mental health. It delves into the disconnect between technological advancement and human connection, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and emotional expression. The need for a narrative shift and redefining masculinity is discussed, along with taking responsibility for one's mental health. The intersection of men's mental health and women's rights is explored, highlighting the importance of sharing and seeking support. Challenging traditional definitions of masculinity and creating spaces for vulnerability and conversation are emphasized. The influence of media and role models is also examined, and the conversation concludes with closing remarks and a call to action.

S1 Ep 3Vision Boards, Super Bowl LVIII Takeaways & Country Music Is Black Music
In this episode, the hosts discuss the concept of vision boards, and their own experiences with creating them. They also review Super Bowl 58, including the game, halftime show, and commercials. The hosts also discuss various topics including the love story between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Super Bowl viewership and betting, Beyonce’s commercial and country music and understanding culture beyond race, and shout outs.

S1 Ep 2Super Bowl LVIII, 75 Hard & Valentine's Day
In this episode, the hosts discuss their plans for Valentine's Day and their excitement for Super Bowl 58. They also delve into the 75 Hard challenge and its effectiveness as a lifestyle change. The conversation then shifts to a Senate hearing on social media and the racist questioning of the TikTok CEO. Overall, the hosts emphasize the importance of intentional and sustainable personal growth. The conversation covers the Grammys and Jay-Z's acceptance speech, highlights from the event, and final thoughts and closing remarks.

S1 Ep 1Welcome to Generation Varied
In this episode of the Generation Varied podcast, the hosts introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds and interests. They talk about the importance of diversity in podcasting and their passion for sharing diverse perspectives. The conversation then shifts to music preferences and sports fandom, with a focus on recent sports events and the upcoming Super Bowl. The hosts also discuss the benefits of meal prepping and share tips for successful meal planning. Finally, they highlight recent music releases and rap beef in the industry. The conversation revolves around the ongoing rap beef between Megan Thee Stallion and Nicki Minaj. Megan Thee Stallion released a diss track that sparked a response from Nicki Minaj. The discussion covers the background of the feud, the lyrics exchanged, and the fan reactions. Legal implications and the impact on both artists' careers are also explored. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast and share their thoughts and questions.