
Spolitics
57 episodes — Page 1 of 2

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of Charlie Kirk
In this special bonus episode, Jemele addresses the murder of right influencer Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed while speaking to students at Utah Valley State University. Jemele shares what makes Kirk’s legacy so complicated, and what the response has been by different communities regarding his death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 45Ep 45: The Politics of Adjustment - Featuring Donte’ Stallworth
On this week's filibuster, Jemele wraps up the first season of Spolitics by discussing the many ways in which sports + politics have proven to be important. Jemele is then joined by Donte Stallworth, the former NFL player who has made a name for himself as a political pundit. Donte shares how and why he got into covering politics, and his recollection of hurricane Katrina as someone who played for New Orleans Saints when the hurricane struck 20 years ago. He also discusses what he shares with other football prospects about the impact of his conviction for DUI manslaughter, and how that influenced his playing career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 44Ep 44: The Politics of Being Unpopular - Featuring Brandon Johnson
On this week's filibuster, Jemele fires back at right wing critics who are outraged over Cracker Barrel changing its logo. Jemele is then joined by Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson, who has faced and met many challenges since being elected two years ago. Among them, Mayor Johnson discusses what it will take to keep the Chicago Bears in Chicago, as the Bears are also considering a new stadium home outside of Chicago. The mayor also shares how he is navigating Donald Trump’s attacks on Chicago, the rising tension between Chicago residents and migrants, and what he has done to lower the number of homicides in Chicago. And finally, Jemele has a special message for the newly-engaged couple, Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 43Ep 43: The Politics of Filmmaking - Featuring Spike Lee
On this week's filibuster, Jemele takes aim at the fake outrage over male NFL cheerleaders. Jemele is then joined by award-winning filmmaker Spike Lee, who discusses his new film, Highest to Lowest, his fifth collaboration with Denzel Washington. Spike reveals what makes his chemistry and collaboration with Washington special, and whether or not this could be their last film together. Spike also shares what he thought of the Knicks firing coach Tom Thibodeau, and whether he’d like to see LeBron James as a Knick before he retires. And finally, Jemele shares a response to Jillian Michaels, the fitness personality who sparked controversy by minimizing the impact of slavery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of Survivor’s Remorse Part II - Featuring Amin Elhassan
This is the second part of Jemele’s interview with sports media personality, Amin Elhassan, who went from having a successful NBA career to becoming a key voice in sports media. Amin shares how he got into the NBA, landed with the Phoenix Suns and eventually left them under difficult circumstances. Amin discusses his experience working with former Suns owner Robert Sarver, who was eventually forced to sell the team after an investigation found he engaged in racist behavior and sexual misconduct in the workplace. Amin also details how he latched on at ESPN, and gives his thoughts on the new-look Lakers with Luka Doncic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 42Ep 42: The Politics of Survivor’s Remorse - Featuring Amin Elhassan
On this week's filibuster, Jemele issues a strong rebuke of the clowns who have been throwing dildos on the court at WNBA games. Jemele is then joined by sports media personality Amin Elhassan, who transitioned from the NBA front office into an analyst and commentator. In the first of a two-part interview, Amin discusses what it was like growing up in both Sudan and the United States, how is family reacted when he told them he wanted to forgo an engineering career to get involved in the NBA, and what he misses about being in the NBA front office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 41Ep 41: The Politics of Turf Wars - Featuring DeMaurice Smith
On this week's filibuster, Jemele gives her thoughts on basketball analyst Candace Parker receiving blowback because of her WNBA player rankings. Jemele is then joined by DeMaurice Smith, the former executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). DeMaurice discusses his new book Turf Wars, which takes fans inside of the complicated dynamics between NFL owners, players and their union. DeMaurice shares his thoughts on NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, owners Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft, and how the league handled various crises, including Deflategate, Colin Kaepernick’s protest, and Ray Rice’s domestic violence incident. DeMaurice also reacts to the turmoil surrounding NFLPA leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of Forgiveness - Featuring Jason Wilson
More from Jemele’s conversation with Jason Wilson, author, educator and founder of the Cave of Adullam Transformational Training Academy, which uses martial arts to teach at-risk boys emotional discipline, leadership and character development. Jemele gets candid with Jason about her fractured relationship with her father as he shares his own experiences about forgiving his father as an adult. Jason also offers his advice for mending relationships when there is a lack of accountability. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 40Ep 40: The Politics of The Comprehensive Man - Featuring Jason Wilson
On this week's filibuster, Jemele shares her thoughts on two-time NL MVP Bryce Harper confronting MLB commissioner Rob Manfred when Manfred surfaced the possibility of a salary cap in baseball. Jemele is then joined by author Jason Wilson, who has gained international acclaim for his groundbreaking, Detroit-based transformational training academy, which uses martial arts to teach at-risk boys healthy emotional expression and regulation. In this candid, wide-ranging discussion, Jason explains some of the mental health issues he’s counseled athletes about, how many boys and men live in a state of emotional incarceration, and his thoughts on whether there is a male loneliness epidemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: Q & A with Chris Paul
On this special episode, Jemele shares more of her conversation with future NBA Hall of Famer Chris Paul at the American Black Film Festival. Audience members were granted the opportunity to ask Chris Paul about his life, career and passion for filmmaking, and Chris candidly shares some of his experiences and gives some critical advice for young hoopers who have dreams of making it to the NBA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 39Ep 39: The Politics of The Quincy Avery Effect - Featuring Quincy Avery
On this week's filibuster, Jemele shares her thoughts on Donald Trump reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that provides guidance on name, image, and likeness, and the president’s ordering the Washington Commanders and Cleveland Guardians to change their team nicknames back to the Redskins and Indians, which they changed in 2020 and 2022 because they were considered offensive to Native Americans. Jemele is then joined by Quincy Avery, who rose to being one of the top quarterback gurus in football. Avery discusses his Hulu documentary, “The Quincy Avery Effect," how he went from being homeless to tutoring star quarterbacks Jalen Hurts, Jordan Love, and C.J. Stroud, among others, and how he managed to build a relationship with some of the most prominent quarterbacks in the league. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of WNBA Collective Bargaining
On this special episode, Jemele breaks down the notable moments from WNBA All-Star weekend, including the polarizing reaction to the players wearing t-shirts that read “Pay Us What You Owe Us” in pregame warm-ups. The shirts were in reference to the players ongoing collective bargaining negotiations with league owners and Jemele explains why the players are due a big raise, and how the owners are pulling a sleight of hand trick when it comes to the league's finances. Also, Jemele explains how Minnesota Lynx players Courtney Williams and Natasha Hiedeman emerged as the real winners of WNBA All-Star weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 38Ep 38: The Politics of She’s Got Time - Featuring Swin Cash
On this week's filibuster, Jemele shares her thoughts on whether Laker fans should be worried that LeBron James won’t be a Laker next season. Jemele is then joined by Hall of Famer Swin Cash, the former University of Connecticut star who recently served in the New Orleans Pelicans front office. Swin discusses her motivation behind creating her She’s Got Time platform, which is dedicated to empowering and connecting women across the sports industry. Swin also shares why she believes so many NBA teams are hiring former women’s basketball players for front office positions, how close the NBA is to having its first female head coach, and how she feels about the WNBA returning to Detroit, where she played the first six years of her 16-year WNBA career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 37Ep 37: The Politics of DNA - Featuring Sarah Spain
On this week's filibuster, Jemele takes listeners back to LeBron James’ The Decision, which just had its 15th anniversary. Jemele is then joined by media personality Sarah Spain, who discusses her powerful new book, Runs in The Family, which is based on the compelling family journey of Las Vegas Raiders running backs coach Deland McCullough. The book traces McCullough’s extraordinary path to finding his biological father, resulting in a shocking discovery about his lineage. Sarah shares what made her pursue McCullough’s story and how she gained his trust. She also discusses her career arch in sports journalism and her courageous pivot into financially investing in women’s sports. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of 50/50 - Featuring John Hope Bryant
Jemele is joined by finance expert John Hope Bryant, the founder and CEO of Operation Hope in Atlanta. John gives his thoughts on the Buss family selling a majority stake of the Lakers for $10 billion, and what that means for the broader landscape of sports. Jemele and John also discuss one of the most popular (and annoying) questions on social media: When in a relationship or marriage, should men and women split the bills 50/50?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 36Ep 36: The Politics of Inclusion - Featuring Khalen Saunders
On this week's filibuster, Jemele dives into NBA player Malk Beasley being under federal investigation as part of gambling probe and how the sports leagues alliance with the gambling industry is creating an atmosphere for players to indulge in sports betting. Jemele is then joined by New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, who recently made national news for announcing that his annual football camp is inclusive of LGBTQ+ youth. Saunders discusses why it was important for him to let the queer community know they were welcomed, and how he withstood the criticism. Khalen also shares how his brother, Kameron, who is gay, inspired him and what he learned from watching his brother navigate life as a Black gay man. In the Final Spin, Jemele provides some much-needed to context as to why superstar Caitlin Clark finished ninth among guards in the WNBA players’ All-Star voting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 35Ep 35: The Politics of Running the Point - Featuring Chris Paul
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele takes a deeper look at Tyrese Haliburton’s devastating injury and whether the number of ACL tears suffered by NBA players this season is an aberration or a sign of something more. Then, Jemele has a special conversation with 12-time NBA All-Star Chris Paul at the prestigious American Black Film Festival in Miami. Chris shares whether he plans to play next season and how he’s approaching his free agency this summer. He also discusses why he’s chosen to pivot into film, television and production work through his production company, Ohh Dipp!!! Entertainment. Chris shares his successes and challenges in that space.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 34Ep 34: The Politics of They/Them - Featuring Layshia Clarendon
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele questions why FIFA decided to drop its anti-racism campaign while the Club World Cup tournament is being played in America. Jemele is then joined by recent WNBA retiree Layshia Clarendon, the WNBA’s first non-binary player. Layshia gets candid about why she decided to retire, what it means for the her to be the WNBA’s first non-binary player, and why she decided to go public when she had top surgery. Layshia, who also identifies as trans, shares what it's like living in a climate where numerous states have adopted anti-trans legislation. She also provides a rebuttal to those who don’t believe trans girls and women shouldn’t be allowed to play sports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 33Ep 33: The Politics of Narrative - Featuring Hakeem Jeffries
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele gets to the bottom of why there’s only one Black female head coach in the WNBA, despite Black women making up 70 percent of the league. Jemele is then joined by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who gives his thoughts on the Elon Musk-Donald Trump feud, if it was fair for the Knicks to fire Tom Thibodeau, and how the Democrats plan to win the messaging war against Republicans. Jeffries also answers criticisms about his party’s lack of urgency and if the current Democratic leadership is enough during this perilous moment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 32Ep 32: The Politics of the Can-do Mindset - Featuring Candace Parker
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele questions whether this year’s NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indianapolis Pacers means we’ve seen the end of NBA dynasties and superstar-heavy teams. Jemele is then joined by women’s college basketball legend Candace Parker, who discusses her new book, The Can-Do Mindset. Candace shares how she feels about her jersey being retired by both the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks and Chicago Sky, especially considering her once-rocky relationship with the Sparks. She also explains what she’d like to see the WNBA do to support its players more, and what she’d tell budding superstar Angel Reese if she were her coach. Candace also reveals why she waited until well after she was married to her wife, Anna, to come out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 31Ep 31: The Politics of Healing - Featuring Rickey Smiley
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele examines the 5-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, reflecting on how athletes' activism helped power a worldwide movement and why their efforts weren't sustained. Jemele is then joined by actor and comedian Rickey Smiley, whose network comedy special “Fool-ish” premieres on Hulu on May 30. Smiley explains why it’s taken him over a decade to record a new comedy show. He also explains why he tempered his response to Katt Williams, whose viral interview with Shannon Sharpe included harsh criticisms of Smiley. Plus, Smiley opens up on what his healing journey has looked like since losing his son to a drug overdose and how he discovered recently he was the father of twin girls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 30Ep 30: The Politics of Around the Horn - Featuring Tony Reali
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele weighs in on the latest drama surrounding Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, including the back-and-forth commentary between former NFL players Ryan Clark and Robert Griffin III. Jemele is then joined by Tony Reali, host of ESPN’s popular show, Around the Horn. Reali discusses the show ending after over 20 years, how will he navigate his career once ATH is done, and what he thinks of the criticisms that the show is ending because it’s too “woke.” Reali also shares why he chose to be candid about his mental health struggles, and losing a child.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 29Ep 29: The Politics of Negotiating Like A Girl - Featuring Amy Trask
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele answers a provocative question: Was the NBA draft lottery rigged so that the Dallas Mavericks could get the No 1 pick just months after trading superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers? Later, Jemele is joined by Amy Trask, who was the first female CEO in the NFL. Amy covers her 20-year career with the Las Vegas Raiders, including what it was like to work with iconic owner Al Davis. Amy shares how she navigated the male-dominated world of professional football, and weighs in on some current league issues — a possible 18th regular-season game, the increase in games overseas, and the NFL broadening its reach on streaming platform. Finally, in Jemele’s new segment, the Final Spin, she shares her thought on Major League Baseball posthumously lifting Pete Rose’s lifetime ban for gambling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 28Ep 28: The Politics of Black Business Ownership - Featuring Lanny Smith
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele takes a deep dive into Bill Belichick’s controversial relationship with his 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson and whether the relationship is changing how people view the future NFL Hall of Famer. Jemele is then joined by Lanny Smith, the founder of the popular fitness brand, Actively Black. Lanny, a former Houston basketball player, discusses how he rebounded from a devastating injury that cost him his NBA career. Lanny also shares how Ryan Coogler's Black Panther movie served as inspiration for Actively Black, the challenges he faces in trying to turn his company into the “Black Nike,” and the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs. In the final segment, Jemele shares her favorite story about Gregg Popovich, who recently stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 27Ep 27: The Politics of Finding Peace - Featuring Alexis Belton
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele addresses the Shedeur Sanders draft controversy, making a compelling case for why Sanders’ fall in the draft was a talent-based decision. Jemele is later joined by professional golfer Alexis Belton, a World Long Drive Tour champion who keeps it real about the challenges of pursuing a professional golf career. Alexis candidly shares some mental health struggles she’s endured trying to finding her place in golf, how she found her voice after dealing with some racial incidents as a college golfer, and how she’s using her experiences to support and empower other aspiring golfers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 26Ep 26: The Politics of Play By Play - Featuring Tiffany Greene
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele takes a deep dive into how some in sports are using their money to curry influence with this presidential administration. Jemele is later joined by ESPN play-by-play broadcaster Tiffany Greene, the first Black woman to do play-by-play in college football on a major network. Tiffany shares how she fell in love with play-by-play broadcasting, how she prepares for games across multiple sports, and what it means to be an HBCU graduate that does play-by-play commentary for HBCU football games. Tiffany also shares the inspiring story of how longtime Good Morning America host Robin Roberts impacted her career. In the final segment, Jemele reveals some of her favorite sports literature.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 25Ep 25: The Politics of Civil Disobedience - Featuring Chris Kluwe
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele jumps into the case of Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who held out from team meetings and practices because he reportedly sought to raise his salary from $2.4 million to $4 million. Iamaleave and Tennsessee parted ways, but is this the new reality for college football? Jemele is later joined by former NFL player Chris Kluwe, who recently was arrested at a Huntington Beach, Calif., city council meeting for performing an act of peaceful civil disobedience. Kluwe also shares why he feels he was blackballed from the NFL for his support of same-sex marriage and how he feels like the American public needs to resist during this tumultuous political time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 24Ep 24: The Politics of Lawyering - Featuring Andrew Brandt
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele takes the Los Angeles Dodgers to task for visiting the White House after Donald Trump’s administration temporarily erased Jackie Robinson’s military history on the Department of Defense’s website. Jemele is then joined by sports business guru Andrew Brandt, who has worked in a NFL front office, negotiated player contacts, and is the executive director of the Moorad Center for the Study of Sports Law at Villanova University. Andrew breaks down the $6.1 billion sale of the Boston Celtics, why he believes the Dallas Cowboys are worth $10 billion, and what revenue sharing will bring to college sports. Andrew also shares his choice for the Sports Business Hall of Fame, meaning which players who have secured great contracts despite not having the results to match. Plus, Jemele answers an intriguing question from a SPOLITICS listener: Who is her all-time Detroit Pistons starting 5?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 23Ep 23: The Politics of Audacity - Featuring Kenny Mayne
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele takes a 360-degree view of the transfer portal, looking at its impact on college basketball, including the upcoming men’s and women’s Final Four. Jemele is then joined by former SportsCenter anchor Kenny Mayne in a wide-ranging interview that covers Kenny’s career journey, the bold moves that led him to ESPN, the devastating injury that ended his college football carer and how it ties into the organization he began to help veterans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 22Ep 22: The Politics of Loneliness - Featuring Roy Wood Jr.
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele breaks down what’s wrong with Fox Sports’ list of greatest women’s college basketball players ever and shares her own list. She is then joined by comedian Roy Wood Jr., who shares his passion for baseball, thoughts on why the sport needs a major African-American star, and his observations about the state of political media. Roy also discusses why he chose to focus his latest stand-up comedy special, Lonely Flowers, on the epidemic of loneliness in America. Finally, Jemele pays tribute to boxing great George Foreman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 21Ep 21: The Politics of Building Wealth - Featuring Troy Millings & Rashad Bilal
On this week's opening filibuster, Jemele breaks down the Department of Defense temporarily deleting the military history of Jackie Robinson. Later, she is joined by Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal, the creators of the Earn Your Leisure platform. Rashad and Troy discuss their new book, You Deserve To Be Rich, a step-by-step guide that teaches people how to build their wealth. Rashad and Troy share anecdotes about their financial growth, share the top reasons people are intimidated when it comes to growing their finances, and common financial mistakes people make when they begin their investment journey. Jemele then closes out the episode by remembering former NBA player Junior Bridgeman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 20Ep 20: The Politics of Storytelling - Featuring Matthew Hatchette
With the NFL’s free agency in full swing, on this week’s filibuster Jemele remembers Curt Flood, the Major League Baseball player whose fight for free agency became the blueprint for other players to fight for their freedom. Jemele also explains why Flood deserves to be inducted into the Hall of Fame based on how his court battle with MLB changed th esport forever. Jemele is then joined by Matthew Hatchette, a former NFL veteran who transitioned into filmmaking and storytelling. Hatchette reflects on his time on the Minnesota Vikings with former teammates Randy Moss and Randall Cunningham. He also shares the triumphs and challenges he’s faced transitioning into entertainment. Jemele also answers a question from a “spolitician” about what would be a winning platform for a politician in this political climate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 19Ep 19: The Politics of Athlete Activism - Featuring Etan Thomas
On this week’s opening filibuster, Jemele makes the case for why MLB legend Pete Rose shouldn’t be inducted into the Hall of Fame posthumously, despite pressure from Donald Trump. Jemele is then joined by Etan Thomas, a college star and former NBA veteran who has become one of the leading athlete-activists. Etan explains why speaking up always has been important to him, and how he navigated having strong opinions about race and politics during his playing career. Also, this week, a “spolitician” asks Jemele how she feels about so many former athletes getting into the sports media industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of the GOAT - Featuring LaChina Robinson
Jemele is joined by ESPN women’s basketball analyst LaChina Robinson to discuss the incredible career of basketball legend Diana Taurasi, who recently announced her retirement from the sport. Jemele and LaChina discuss Taurasi’s place in history, including whether she is the greatest women’s player ever. They also discuss who should be the favorite to win the national championship in the women’s college basketball and LeBron James admitting that being the face of the league is no longer appealing because of intense media criticism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 18Ep 18: The Politics of Authenticity - Featuring RaMell Ross
On this week’s opening filibuster, Jemele explains the historical significance of Howard University swimming and diving team recently winning their second Northeast Conference championship in three years. Jemele then has a wide-reaching conversation with filmmaker and former Georgetown basketball player RaMell Ross, whose movie, ‘Nickel Boys’ is nominated for two Oscars (Best Picture + Best Adapted Screenplay). RaMell shares his journey into photography and filmmaking, how he handled the end of his basketball career, and how his recent Oscar nominations compare to when he was nominated for Best Documentary Feature in 2019 for his work on 'Hale County This Morning, This Evening.’ And finally, Jemele gives her thought on MNBC firing political commentator and host Joy-Ann Reid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 17Ep 17: The Politics of Healthy Arrogance - Featuring Will Packer
On this week’s opening filibuster, Jemele shares the story of Bill Nunn, the longtime Pittsburgh Steelers scout who was the architect of the Steelers infamous “Steel Curtain” defense, which led to Pittsburgh’s four Super Bowls. Jemele also has a conversation with mega producer Will Packer, who talks about his new book, “Who Better Than You: The Art of Healthy Arrogance & Dreaming Big,” and how he became a minority owner in the Atlanta Falcons. Will discusses his relationship with star actor and comedian Kevin Hart, and the secret behind them making blockbuster films together. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 16Ep 16: The Politics of Creating Your Own Lane - Featuring Josiah Johnson
On this week's opening filibuster, Jemele shares the inspiring story of Rose Robinson, who is believed to be the first Black athlete to protest against racial injustice by kneeling during the national anthem. Jemele is joined by social media influencer Josiah Johnson, who also is host and executive producer of Gil’s Arena, the digital basketball show that stars former NBA player Gilbert Arenas. Josiah shares how he built his influential social media brand, and gives advice to other influencers and content creators seeking to follow in his footsteps. Josiah reveals what it was like being the son of L.A. hoops legend, Marques Johnson, who also is known for his comedic role in White Men Can’t Jump. Josiah also addresses some hot NBA topics, including Jimmy Butler’s beef with the Miami Heat and NBA commissioner Adam Silver floating the idea of 10-minute quarters. Finally, Jemele addresses a fan who asks what other content she’d like to see for women in the sports media space.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of Super Bowl LIX - Featuring Carron J. Phillips
Jemele is joined by journalist Carron J. Phillips to discuss the Eagles dominating win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl, the overall political themes, if the Eagles are on the verge of dynasty, and a breakdown of Kendrick Lamar’s performance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 15Ep 15: The Politics of A Second Wind - Featuring Marion Jones
On this week’s filibuster, Jemele explains how the Super Bowl halftime show became so popular. Jemele is joined by Olympic gold medalist Marion Jones, who discuss her appearance this season on FOX's reality competition show, Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test. Jones explains the grueling physical and mental rigors she went through on the show, which chronicles 16 celebrities across sports, pop culture and social media as they try to survive a series of demanding training exercises led by a team of ex-Special Forces operatives. Jones shares what she learned about herself on the show, the reason she’s decided to compete in a triathlon in the late spring, and she reflects on the doping scandal that destroyed her Olympic career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 14Ep 14: The Politics of Perseverance - Featuring Taylor Townsend
This week in Jemele’s opening filibuster, Jemele addresses whether the NFL’s Rooney Rule — their version of DEI for coaches and front office personnel — should be abolished. Her guest this week is tennis pro Taylor Townsend, who recently won the Australian Open doubles championship. Taylor shares what prompted her to begin a tennis career, how she navigated some of the early obstacles in her career, which included being body shamed. Taylor also explains how she juggles motherhood and professional tennis, and the ups and down that come along with financing her tennis career. In the final segment, Jemele answers a question from social media about rappers Nelly and Snoop Dogg performing during Donald Trump’s inauguration festivities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 13Ep 13: The Politics of Laughter - Featuring Ryan Davis
This week, Jemele answers some of her critics over an old tweet about Caitlin Clark in her opening filibuster. Jemele is joined by actor and comedian Ryan Davis, who is co-hosting a comedy series on Vice with Chris Spencer and Tiffany Haddish called “Black Comedy in America” that includes blockbuster interviews with Will Smith, Kevin Hart, and Steve Harvey. Ryan reveals his comedic inspirations, and his thoughts on Andrew Schulz-Kendrick Lamar beef. Ryan also tells the story of his own beef with NBA superstar Kevin Durant. Jemele finishes the episode by answering an audience question about whether we can expect to see more sports teams visit the White House after winning championships now that Donald Trump has returned to office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 12Ep 12: The Politics of Athlete Empowerment - Featuring Paul McDonald
This week, Jemele’s opening filibuster focuses on the origin story on how the NCAA came to be one of the most powerful and lucrative organizations in sports. Jemele is joined by attorney Paul McDonald, co-lead counsel for college athletes plaintiffs in the Johnson vs NCAA lawsuit, which, if successful, would force college and universities to classify college players as employees. McDonald explains the core thesis behind the athletes’ case, and shares how the NCAA is using the controversial, so-called “slavery loophole” in the 13th Amendment of the Constitution as a defense. Jemele also closes out the episode with thoughts on the devastating fires in Los Angeles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 11Ep 11: The Politics of Fandom - Featuring Jake Tapper
This week, Jemele’s “The Filibuster” focuses on the NFL MVP race between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. Then, CNN anchor and rabid Philadelphia sports fan Jake Tapper joins Jemele to discuss the state of sports in Philly. Tapper takes Jemele through the origin and evolution of his superstitious Philly fandom, and he shares a special message for Joel Embiid. Jemele also presses Tapper on whether he enjoyed witnessing the Eagles win the Super Bowl more than his wedding. Finally, Jemele answers an audience question about the disapproval of Heisman winner Travis Hunter’s romantic relationship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ANNOUCEMENT
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S1 Ep 10Ep 10: The Politics of Diplomacy - Featuring Sydney Kamlager-Dove
This week, Jemele's "The Filibuster" explains the fine line between sports diplomacy and sportswashing. Then, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove joins Jemele to offer her firsthand perspective on using sports for positive political gain. Jemele and Rep. Kamlager-Dove discuss the Department of Government Efficiency, and Rep. Kamlager-Dove offers her opinion on how Trump's stance on immigration contrasts with her goals for sports diplomacy. Jemele and Rep. Kamlager-Dove also forecast the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Finally, Jemele answers an audience question about tax subsidies in sports ownership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 9Ep 09: The Politics of Fighting - Featuring Claressa Shields
On this week's "The Filibuster,” Jemele shares her thoughts on Caitlin Clark winning TIME's Athlete of the Year 2024. Then, Olympic gold medalist and world champion boxer Claressa Shields joins Jemele to discuss her biopic “The Fire Inside,” what she thought of actor Ryan Destiny's portrayal of her, which people in her life didn’t particularly like their portrayals, and why it was important to showcase her hometown of Flint, Michigan. Shields also reflects on fighting for pay equity. Plus, Jemele asks Shields about her recent online conflict with rapper Remy Ma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of Capitalism and Oppression - Featuring John Hope Bryant
In this special bonus episode, Jemele and John Hope Bryant discuss whether capitalism mimics oppression. John explains his belief in Black people as the world's moral compass, breaks down the difference between good and bad capitalism, and declares Jay-Z's "4:44" to be "a financial literacy album." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 8Ep 08: The Politics of Money - Featuring John Hope Bryant
Jemele spends "The Filibuster" exploring athletes' volatile relationship with financial literacy. Then, Jemele welcomes the foremost expert on financial literacy. John Hope Bryant, the author of "Financial Literacy for All" and CEO, Chairman and Founder of Operation HOPE. Bryant explains why he believes financial literacy is this generation's civil rights issue. John and Jemele also go back and forth whether Michael Jordan should have sold his controlling interest in the Charlotte Hornets. John also gives his thoughts on why athletes disproportionately file for bankruptcy, why more Americans have invested in sports gambling than the stock market, and if athletes should begin converting their salary to Bitcoin. Lastly, Jemele addresses a question from a listener who wants to know why she supported Vice President Kamala Harris despite her being “unqualified" to be the next US President.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 7Ep 07: The Politics of Conflict - Featuring Ibtihaj Muhammad
This week's "The Filibuster" focuses on the ongoing war in Gaza and challenges why it seems impossible to discuss without someone being labeled as an anti-Semite and a terrorist sympathizer. Jewish Currents editor-at-large, CUNY professor, and MSNBC analyst Peter Beinart and Jewish sports journalist Eric Adelson both offer their expertise. Then, former Olympic fencer and New York Times best-selling author Ibtihaj Muhammad joins Jemele. Ibtihaj connects her experience as the first-ever Muslim American Olympian to wear a hijab to her continued purpose as an activist. Ibtihaj shares her pro-Palestinian beliefs and why she remains undeterred by the backlash she's received. As always, Jemele answers a listener question — this time, from someone who wants to know how athletes can balance making their political opinions while facing limitations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS EPISODE: The Politics of A Second Trump Presidential Term
In this special bonus episode, Jemele reacts to Donald Trump winning the 2024 US presidential election and breaks down what ramifications a second Trump term will have on the sports world. Jemele projects what may happen to Title IX, given Trump's desire to dissolve the Department of Education, and how Trump and the re-election of Texas Senator Ted Cruz could impact college athletes' continued fight against the NCAA to earn employee status. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.