Larry Wilmore: Black On The Air

Larry is joined by professor and writer Theresa Runstedtler to discuss her new book 'Black Ball: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Spencer Haywood, and the Generation that Saved the Soul of the NBA'. They begin their conversation by discussing how Dr. Runstedtler's connection to the NBA via the Toronto Raptors dance team and the corporatization she witnessed within that organization during her stint inspired her to research the primary aspects of her book. Next, they examine the history of segregation in professional basketball, how racial context was tied to the emerging style of play within the game, and pioneers like Connie Hawkins who insisted on wage equality for Black players in the league (8:19). They then dive into Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's influence on the ABA-NBA merger and the influence of racially biased media coverage on the public’s perception of Black players and the sport’s overall revenue in the '70s (25:15). After the break, they take a look at the ascension of Simon Gourdine, the first Black NBA executive,

Larry is joined by professor, historian, and host of the PBS series 'Finding Your Roots' Henry Louis Gates Jr. They begin their conversation by discussing how Henry's upbringing and the parental influence fueled his passion for storytelling and education. Henry then details how the show and the accompanying DNA technology have evolved over the years from exclusively connecting African-Americans to their pre-slavery tribal roots to the highly revered service it is today that helps people from races and regions all over the world connect to their family trees (13:43). Dr. Gates then shares anecdotes about some of his favorite guests and moments from past episodes of 'Finding Your Roots', including Oprah Winfrey, Angela Davis, and Morgan Freeman (25:13). Larry and Henry end the podcast by talking about the show's ability to consistently uncover deep family secrets, Gates's upcoming appearance on 'The Simpsons', and how listeners can explore their own genealogies (52:55). Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Henry Louis Ga

Larry is joined by author, journalist, and media executive Mark Whitaker to discuss his newest book, 'Saying It Loud: 1966—The Year Black Power Challenged the Civil Rights Movement'. They begin their conversation by talking about why Mark decided to write the book and break down the social and political events that led up to this turbulent year. They then get into the key figures and organizations involved during this time period, notably the SNCC, Stokely Carmichael, John Lewis, and Sammy Younge Jr., whose tragic and publicized death at the beginning of 1966 helped spark a consciousness movement that ultimately led to the beginning of the Black Panthers (9:14). Next they dissect the meaning of the term "Black Power" and how the established press distorted its original messaging to foment division within the movement's participants (24:06). After the break they get into the distraction caused by the '60s anti-war movement and middle-class feelings towards Black Power (35:08). They end the pod by drawing compa

Larry is joined by Emmy Award-winning writer and director Craig Mazin to talk about his newest venture 'The Last of Us' on HBO. They begin their conversation by breaking down the synopsis of both the series and the popular video game it's based on while also touching on Craig's relationship with the two. Next, they discuss the obstacles and advantages of making comedies, the flexibility of comedic actors, and how to create an adaptation of a video game that already has a rabid fanbase intimately familiar with the source material (8:10). Craig then talks about his experiences making a show about a fungal pandemic while living through a viral one and how he was able to express complex emotional themes within the chaos of a zombie infested post-apocalyptic plotline (21:23). This leads into a conversation about humanity's relationship to sickness, its dependence on religion, and the future of shows based on video game franchises (37:19). Craig and Larry end the pod by discussing Mazin's entry into the world of sc

Larry is joined by comedian and host of 'Pod Save America' and 'Lovett or Leave It', Jon Lovett. They begin their conversation by discussing the progressive network he co-founded, Crooked Media, and the tumultuous political landscape that inspired its genesis. Next, they dive into the nature of the political system and the success of some of its arbiters, notably Barack Obama, and point to the rise of Sarah Palin as the beginning of the Trump era currently dominating right wing ideology (14:48). After the break they talk about Joe Biden's presidential success, how he's being underestimated because of his age, and speculate on his possible Democratic successor (26:42). Next, they debate the desensitization of violence in America in regards to recently circulated videos like the Paul Pelosi incident, the Tyre Nichols footage, and images broadcasted from the war in Ukraine (39:11). Finally, Jon reflects on his time as a political speechwriter and the positive atmosphere of his live shows (48:35). Host: Larry Wil

Larry is joined by journalist, Ringer contributor, and Academy Award–winning producer Van Lathan Jr. to discuss his book ‘Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation.’ They start their conversation by reviewing some of their personal experiences from the past couple of years and discussing the importance of perseverance when navigating the mental roadblocks in your career. Van then recounts the emotional visit to his father's home in Baton Rouge after his death (11:00). Next, Van dives into the process of writing the book, his history with panic attacks, and the incident that started him on his journey in dealing with those struggles (26:19). After the break they examine the mental health challenges affecting black people in general and the steps Van continually took to overcome his own during the pandemic (46:48). Finally, they speculate on Kanye West's current state of mind and Van shares some advice for anyone who may be going through their own battles with mental health (1:01:37). Hos

Larry weighs in on the new year, the Speaker of the House race, and 'Harry & Meghan'. He is then joined by sports writer and analyst for ESPN's 'NFL Live', Mina Kimes. They begin their conversation by discussing the Damar Hamlin tragedy and the complications it presents, both institutionally within the NFL and ethically for the fanbase (11:17). They then dive into the current state of the league, the adjustments made to make the game safer, and the viability of football as America's primary sport moving forward (23:12). Next, Mina details how she got started in sports journalism, the accessibility of professional athletes, and the obstacles she faces as a Korean-American woman in the sports community (42:36). This leads to a discussion about dealing with social media trolls, Larry's beloved Rams, and some advice from Mina for aspiring sports analysts looking to get into the journalism game (55:56). Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Mina Kimes Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit p

Larry begins the pod by resharing a lovely discussion he had with his daughter Lauren from an episode in 2020 where they dissect the lyrical intricacies of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and examine how the song has evolved over time. He's then joined by award-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins to discuss his new television show 'Kindred' streaming at FX on Hulu. They begin their conversation by talking about how the show came together, why Branden chose to adapt 'Kindred' from author Octavia Butler's impressive catalog, and the similarities between his show and the '70s TV mini-series 'Roots' (17:48). Next, Branden touches on the challenges of interpreting the chronological, thematic, and sci-fi elements of Butler's novel to the screen (28:11). After the break they explore the psychological layers of some of the show's main characters and shine a light on actor Mallori Johnson's portrayal of the protagonist Dana (49:08). They end the pod by debating the role of 'Kindred' in the current cultu

Larry weighs on the recent anti-semitic rhetoric being advertised from celebrities like Kanye West, Kyrie Irving, and Dave Chapelle before answering some of your mailbag questions. He's then joined by television writer and producer Phil Rosenthal to discuss his new book 'Somebody Feed Phil the Book', which serves as a companion to his ongoing Netflix show 'Somebody Feed Phil'. They begin by talking about how the book came together and the delicious experience at a Georgia 7-Eleven in his youth that inspired his lifelong obsession with travel and food (36:05). Phil then details how the TV show came to fruition, from the inspiration he received from his friend Ray Romano's Italy trip to a bizarre pitching experience he had with the Travel Channel (48:00). After the break they dive into the challenges of making a travel show, and where Phil would like to go next (1:15:11). Finally, Phil gives some flowers to his departed father and shares some advice to folks looking to get into the entertainment industry (1:36:

Larry is joined by television personality and journalist Cari Champion. They start their conversation by discussing her new venture, 'The Cari Champion Show' on Amazon Prime Video. They then pivot to the controversial Jerry Jones photo, Lebron James's subsequent comments, and the journalistic double standards that arise in these instances (5:37). Next, they dive into the firestorm surrounding Kanye West's recent diatribes and discuss the implications and consequences of these troubling actions (30:51). After the break Cari talks about some of the challenges of being a woman in the world of sportscasting and speculates on what lies ahead for her illustrious career (40:50). They end the pod by examining the state of their beloved Los Angeles Lakers (50:55). Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Cari Champion Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Larry is joined by writer and filmmaker Elvis Mitchell to discuss his new documentary on Netflix, 'Is That Black Enough For You?!?', which focuses on the unsung heroes of African-American cinema during the 1960s and '70s. They begin their conversation by talking about the genesis of the project and some of the legendary actors who serve as inspiration for the film's focus, particularly Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte. Next, they examine how the psychological dynamics and representation presented in films like 'Cotton Comes To Harlem', 'Night of the Living Dead', and 'Uptight' were flashpoints for the blaxploitation era and the mainstream popularity of movies like 'Superfly' and 'Shaft' (22:39). Next, they talk about the stigma of the Black cowboy in American culture and the power within films that can shape social narratives (). After the break, they dive into Pam Grier's potency as a screen icon and share anecdotes about growing up watching their favorite favorite films from the era. They end the pod by e

Larry weighs in on 'Reasonable Doubt', the midterm elections, and Herschel Walker. He's then joined by acclaimed writer and filmmaker Nelson George to discuss his new documentary 'Say Hey, Willie Mays!' on HBO.(18:12) They begin their conversation by detailing Nelson's beginnings as a young baseball fan in New York and talking about Willie Mays's influence and celebrity during the height of his fame and in the modern sports lexicon. Next, they examine Willie's relationship to Barry Bonds, his lifelong commitment to the sport of baseball, and his reputation as one of its pioneering "five-tool" players.(35:43) After the break, they touch on Mays's connection to Hank Aaron and the myriad of issues that have caused baseball's decline in popularity.(45:06) They end the pod debating why Willie Mays should be on the Mount Rushmore of Black athletes.(1:10:24) Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Nelson George Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Larry is joined by Pulitzer Prize–winning writer Jon Meacham at the Gloria Kaufman Performing Arts Center for Live Talks LA to discuss his book 'And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle'. They begin their conversation by talking about why Meacham wanted to write the book and detailing Lincoln's challenges in regards to slavery and the abolitionist movement during his political rise. Next, they explore Lincoln's motivations for becoming president, the beginning of his anti-slavery ethos, and how he applied this outlook throughout his time in office.(24:31) This leads to a discussion about the chaos surrounding the 1964 election, whether the Civil War was ultimately avoidable, and if the same type of violent division could happen today.(28:42) They end the pod by taking a variety of questions from the audience.(59:06) Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Jon Meacham Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Larry is joined by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Fisher Stevens and Emmy Award-winning producer and director Karim Amer to discuss their new documentary 'The Lincoln Project' on Showtime. They begin their conversation by talking about the genesis of the powerful media group of the same name as well as the primary players and inspiration for the film. Next, they describe the process of maintaining a candid and authentic atmosphere when attempting to achieve authenticity in a documentary setting.(13:15) This leads to a discussion on the overuse of personality attacks by the Democratic party in the political theatre and how election-denying Trumpists in the Republican party are infecting democracy in general.(22:59) After the break they debate the effectiveness of the Lincoln Project's ads on the electorate and dissect the political obstacles facing progressive movement and the United States going forward.(37:09) Host: Larry Wilmore Guests: Fisher Stevens and Karim Amer Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Learn m

Larry is joined by Academy and Emmy Award-winning writer and director Travon Free to discuss his new documentary '38 at the Garden' on HBO. They begin the conversation by sharing why he wanted to make the film and how it exposes the limitations society places on a particular narrative or stereotype, in this case Jeremy Lin's struggle to prove his worthiness as an NBA-level basketball player as a Taiwanese-American. Next, they talk about the importance of telling stories like Lin's to strengthen our society against bigotry, the importance of representation in all facets of life, and audience reception to the film.(23:25) After the break, Travon talks about life after winning an Oscar, which in turn leads to an in-depth discussion about intellectual property, how major studios will recycle IP to generate revenue, and how aspiring writers can use IP to break into the industry.(37:26) Finally, Travon details the advantages and complications of being part of a dual-director team with Martin Desmond Roe and his inf

Larry is joined by Kerry Washington and Raamla Mohamed, the producers and creators of the new Hulu legal drama 'Reasonable Doubt'. They begin their conversation by explaining how the show got its start, the intricacies of writing its complex characters, and the expert casting of lead actress Emayatzy Corinealdi. Next, Raamla and Kerry share their experiences coming up in the industry while working on 'Scandal' together and discuss the benefits of developing a project like 'Reasonable Doubt', where diversity and inclusion are the focus when casting key position roles in the overall production. (18:29) Then Kerry dives into her preparation for directing the series pilot and the importance of creating a safe space for actors to excel.(32:34) After the break, Raamla discusses how she uses her personal history to infuse a wholly Los Angeles feel into 'Reasonable Doubt', and details the audience response to the show's impeccable fashion and soundtrack.(43:45) They end the pod by sharing advice to any aspiring actor

Larry weighs in on the political landscape heading into the midterms, the Dobbs decision, and the definition of personhood. He's then joined by Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph to talk about the new ABC series 'Abbott Elementary'. They start their conversation by talking about the emotions Sheryl felt when she won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Barbara Howard and the impetus behind her viral acceptance speech. (23:45) Sheryl then details how she was cast for 'Abbott Elementary', the challenges she faced in preparation for the role, and some of the techniques she employed to execute her performance.(35:56) After the break, they dive into how her parents and bi-country upbringing empowered her to pursue her acting dreams.(49:53) They then discuss how her participation in the Negro Ensemble Company at Rutgers University opened the door for her first screen role opposite Sidney Poitier in 'A Piece of the Action'.(52:34) They end the pod by talking about her experience

Larry is joined by writer and comedian Andy Borowitz to discuss his new book, 'Profiles in Ignorance: How America's Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber,' which examines how television has negatively shaped the political climate and its participants since its proliferation in the 1950s and '60s. Andy starts the conversation with some anecdotes from his time working on 'The Facts of Life' and 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and then pivots into the three-part structure of the book (4:02). In the opening "Ridicule" section, Andy details the history of anti-intellectualism in the modern conservative movement and how it contrasts with the "egg head" candidates often sought by the left (19:41). Next, they talk about the "Acceptance" phase, which breaks down how raw charisma and the cultural zeitgeist propelled Ronald Reagan, Sarah Palin, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump to mass popularity and positions of power (40:03). After the break they get to the "Celebration" chapters, which examines how Trumpist firebrands like Ron

Larry is joined by award-winning filmmakers Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein to discuss their new PBS docuseries 'The U.S. and the Holocaust', premiering Sept. 18. They begin their conversation by detailing the United States government's inadequacies in their response to the Nazi's persecution of the Jews during WWII. Next, they offer a brief history of xenophobia in American society leading up to the events in the film(7:10) and talk about how the number of casualties and the sentimentality of certain portrayals of the war like 'The Diary of a Young Girl' by Anne Frank may have been different if America would have reacted more quickly.(19:06) After the break they dive into Charles Lindbergh's anti-semitism and how it drastically contradicted his celebrated public persona, while also shining a light on some of the lesser known heroes of the Holocaust. (29:35) They end the pod by collectively pondering how humanity is capable of committing atrocities like the Holocaust and debate if the current political climate i

Larry is joined by actress and producer Regina Hall to talk about her new film 'Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul' premiering theatrically and on Peacock September 2. They start their conversation by breaking down the film's plot and her role as Trinitie Childs, the "first lady' of a struggling megachurch, while also delving into Hall's own religious background. This leads to a discussion about the complicated nature of not only church hierarchies but organized religion itself.(11:48) Next, they discuss the creative approach to playing Trinitie and the chemistry between her co-star Sterling K.Brown.(19:42) After the break, Regina details how a personal tragedy influenced her life trajectory and propelled her towards acting school and a successful career in the industry.(25:17) Hall then shares how she is able to explore the character-driven spaces within a script to cultivate comedic performances.(33:05) They end the pod by talking about about some of Regina's influences and looking forward to future projects.(3