1Xtra Talks

On the eighth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire, the fight for justice continues for safer housing. Joining us is housing campaigner Kwajo Tweneboa, as we discuss the legacy of Grenfell and the state of social housing today, and journalist Jamila Pereira shares through her work on housing, what must change to ensure a tragedy like Grenfell never happens again. We also hear thoughts from fathers on Father's Day.

Recorded in Bradford, celebrating it being the City of Culture. Richie's uncovering the strong cultural tapestry that makes the place so unique. Through candid conversations with locals, Richie explores the stories, histories and influences shaping the diverse communities. Joining him are journalist Grace McIntosh, photographer Victor Wedderburn, rapper Kenzo Jae, author and teacher Lola Okolosie and DJ Jae Depz - each offering their own perspective on life in Bradford.From music and media to the city's evolving identity, 1Xtra Talks celebrates the voices and experiences that define the area.Please note, this programme includes language which some listeners may find offensive.

In a world where digital voices and traditional media mix a lot, does one shape public opinion more than the other? Guvna B sits in and dives into the evolving landscape of influence, credibility, and storytelling. Joining the conversation are rapper Fekky, discussing his farm life documentary - then we dig into this topic with content creator and speaker Courtney Boateng, presenter Oré Olukoga, journalist Jonelle Awomoyi and influencer Ella Thomas. Together, they unpack how media and influence intersect in today's fast-changing world.

Mental Health Awareness Week is being recognised worldwide, as well as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. We heard from Tony Cealy, Lloyd Curtis, Errol Thompson, Sharmone Preddie and Yusuf Muhammad from The Black Men's Consortium. We also speak with therapist and founder of Find A Balance, Samantha Grant, then 1Xtra's Kaylee Golding joins us from Birmingham.

New Netflix TV show Cheaters is bringing secrets to the light, and presenter and relationships expert Paul Brunson gives us the inside scoop on its success, as well as understanding the spiral towards betrayal through cheating in relationships.Plus, live from New York, presenter Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty brings us the latest on the Diddy trial - breaking down the biggest moments and what's next. And from Birmingham, author Selina Brown joins us to highlight the importance of cultural diversity in children's literature, sharing insights from her new book, My Rice is Best.

We hear from hair health experts Jacqueline Shaw and Jadene Taylor as they look into safer options and alternatives to synthetic hair. We catch up with supermodel and presenter of BBC Glow Up Leomie Anderson, and best-selling author Candice Brathwaite shares thoughts after her first London Marathon.

Tune in for a raw and unfiltered journey into the highs and lows that define addiction.

As we approach Stephen Lawrence Day, we honour his memory and get an update from BBC journalist Daniel De Simone on what's happened with the case in the last 12 months.We also discuss over-policing of Black owned events and how that's impacting the community with the CEO of Black Lives in Music, Charisse Beaumont, and artist and founder of Black Pound Day, Swiss. Finally, Richie asks what does feminism look like in 2025?

With National Feet Week on the horizon Richie Brave is be talking to guests about feet! He is discussing the buying and selling of feet pics and the psychology behind different sexual kinks. He is also joined by author and publisher Sareeta Domingo to discuss her upcoming romance novel Possibility.

Richie Brave hears from those living and experiencing life through a neurodivergent lense, as the world sheds light on autism awareness day. Joined by musicians, Donae'o and YJ, wellbeing speaker and autism parent Tiwa King, the founder of Black Autistics, Olivia Brown, and creative exec Despa Robinson, this show special aims to get to the heart of what it means to live, thrive, and sometimes struggle on and beyond autism.

We start by discussing the difficult reality of intentional abandonment with 1Xtra's Fee Mak. We also hear from fitness influencer Ashley Cain, with the launch of his new BBC Three series, Into The Danger Zone. We then get into embracing heritage on stage with actress Cherrelle Skeete, who is leading in The National Theatre's play, Alterations.

We deep dive into the state of nurseries in the UK - why are fees rising? And what does it take to own a nursery? Joined by nursery owners Karl Lewis and Liz Pemberton.We meet Archie Maddocks, writer behind new BBC TV show Crongton - a new series released today that is centred around the life of council flat kids.Singer-songwriter Mahalia shares a strong message about women's rights and misogynoir in her latest partnership with Amnesty International.And we jump into the world of creativity to hear what it is like to create your own film from scratch, with director of short film Chasing The Night, Abraham Adeyemi, and lead actress, Deborah Ayorinde.

Richie Brave chats with comedians to journey through life before humour.

We discuss the importance of World Book Day from a Black British perspective, as well as practical moves made to inspire girls and women as we mark International Women's Day. Richie is joined by acclaimed historian David Olusoga, children's book author Priscilla Ohene and 1Xtra presenter Fee Mak. We also catch up with presenter Priscilla Anyabu as she shares her passions of uplifting more girls and women through sport.

Richie Brave and special guests discuss the influence of boarding schools and more.

We discuss the opportunities and challenges that come with home ownership, touching on the pros and cons, and investment elsewhere beyond property. Richie Brave is joined by Daniela Adoasi, who runs online platform New Home At Last, Rotimi Merriman-Johnson - the owner of Mr Money Jar - and Jerran Whyte, the wealth management specialist and managing director at Belvedere Wealth Management.

Shining a light on the 2025 MOBO Awards - the best of Black music and culture, where we're joined by music journalist Mary Mandefield, DJ Kenny Allstar, and musician and former MOBO award-winner Guvna B sharing more on the ceremony and platform, in its 27th year.We then provide an update on the ongoing legal allegations involving one of hip-hop's biggest moguls, Sean Diddy Combs. We learn of a breakdown of the latest developments in the trial, joined by presenter of the Diddy On Trial podcast, Anoushka Mutanda Dougherty.

We talk all things dating diaries, navigating it, and tips! We also hear about the importance of organ donation, and inspiring stories about solo travel!

Idris Elba shares more with Richie Brave about his new documentary Our Knife Crime Crisis. Bellah and Corey Bovell join to talk new radio drama Chicken Burger N Chips.

We get into conversation during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Starting off hearing from Simphiwe Sesane who shares the importance of cervical care, Doctor Rumbi shares vital tips for women to understand their bodies better. Plus the growing topics of conversation around endometriosis and fibroids with endometriosis awareness advocate and campaigner Natalie Blake and body confidence broadcaster Jackie Adedeji.

Finding sisterhood in motherhood with a new app, especially for Black mums.

We explore which skincare routines are helpful for our skin type, thoughts on the representation of Black hair in media and advertising today, and whether going vegan truly impacts our health and well-being.

We hear about the Met Police' revealing tool to identify gang members across London and the UK with Katrina Ffrench from UNJUST UK, motivating advice on how fitness can become a lifestyle with founders of 826 Active, Stephen Kalama and Alistair Kalama, and talk vision boards and goal setting for the year with Fee Mak and Mary Mandefield.

It's been an amazing year on 1Xtra Talks! Richie Brave shares some of his favourite highlights, memorable conversations and topics.

2024 has been quite a year! From Kat Williams on Club Shay Shay, the Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef, to Who TF Did I Marry?. Even producer Nieema went viral, TWICE! Join Richie Brave and his guests as they discuss their favourite moments from TV, online, music and more.

We lean into the journeys of young people striving to rediscover their cultural roots, often undertaking explorations of identity and heritage. We hear about navigating the path of a cancer diagnosis. We then hop into the vibrant and joyous December festivities celebrated by the African diaspora.

We explore the vibrant journey of soca music as it gains international recognition and captivates audiences worldwide. We then shift gears to discuss the government's new measures to combat the alarming rise in drink spiking incidents. Finally, we highlight the crucial importance of supporting women facing gender-based violence, emphasizing community efforts and resources available to those in need.

Is Drake being dramatic? Music lawyer Issac James joins Guvna B to break down the specifics of Drake's legal action against UMG over Kendrick Lamar's Not Like Us.Are you open to new kinds of adventure? Soft Life Ski shares how they bring Black culture to the slopes, and why more minority communities should consider snow sports. Plus writer, creator and musician David Larbi speaks to Guvna B about his new book Frequently Happy, sharing why celebrating small joys helps us to maintain happiness all year round.

As part of BBC Scams Week, Richie is joined by Franklin Boateng AKA King of Trainers, and Messiah Odinma, Head of Student Finance at University of Hertfordshire, to talk about how to avoid fake trainers and student finance scams.Richie is also joined by actor and producer Jimmy Akingbola to talk about the new series of Sorry, I Didn't Know, his acting inspiration, returning to the iconic role of Geoffrey in Bel Air and more!

It's been two years since 1Xtra got together with Children in Need to create We Move Forward - a fund dedicated to projects supporting Black children and young people around the UK. Richie is joined by singer, songwriter, teacher, performer and Project Manager for We Move West Wales, Molara, to hear about the amazing work she's doing in rural Wales! Richie is also joined by the Director of Let's Unite for Autism, Hawa Osman, and Assistant Art Lead Amanda Okoli to hear about their We Move Forward funded projects.And how can we make the art world a more inclusive space for underrepresented artists? Richie is joined by the founder of Hope 93 Gallery, Aki Abiola, to talk about why he's passionate about creating welcoming spaces for artists.

When our favourite artists and celebrities are in the headlines for the wrong reasons, it creates a dilemma for music fans – can we still love the music but distance ourselves from their reported behaviour? In the last two decades, some of the biggest names in music have been marred by scandal and criminal convictions. Can the art and the artist be truly separated? If not, what do we do with their work that created memories and a legacy in the genres we love?To get into it, Richie is joined by audio producer and rapper Chris Mitchell, aka Kinetik, and writer and head of editorial at Black Ballad, Jendella Benson.

The firearms officer accused of the murder of Chris Kaba was acquitted - a heart-breaking conclusion for the Kaba family. Richie is joined by barrister and Chair of the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board Abimbola Johnson to talk about the options now available to the Kaba family, why the charge was murder and not manslaughter, why the reporting restrictions were put in place, and what new home office measures about firearms officers anonymity mean for the future. Richie is also joined by presenter and correspondent Adina Campbell who was in court during the trial.Also on the show - how can we learn more about menopause and support those going through it? Richie is joined by broadcaster, author and menopause advocate Karen Arthur.And are you ready for cuffing season? 1Xtra's love guru Kaylee Golding updates Richie on her bid to get two lucky listeners on a blind date!

What are the realities of being a Black business owner or entrepreneur? What gems of wisdom would have been helpful to know early on? Richie Brave celebrates stories of entrepreneurial success at the UK Black Business Show. DJ, broadcaster and restaurateur Sian Anderson, founders of Kurl Kitchen, Fleur & Keshia East, and the founder of Smade Group and co-founder of AfroNation, Smade, share their journeys of challenges and wins.

Who are some of the inspirational people in the community making Black history now? Richie Brave is joined by climate justice activist, storyteller, writer, and global speaker Dominique Palmer, award-winning finance expert and entrepreneur Ella Weinberg, and award-winning historian, producer and lecturer of Black British history Sofia Akel.

Whether it's about its relevance or the content shared, everyone has an opinion about Black History Month. How should we be marking it? Do Black communities need to take more ownership of what it looks like or entails? Publicist, cultural commentator and podcaster Marianne Sunshine, and project facilitator Ellis Eyo-Thompson join Richie to explore this. What does Black Excellence mean to you? Are we too focussed on the wrong things when we define what excellence means? How does media impact how we perceive Black Excellence? Content & audience Insights researcher, and lecturer in media and marketing analytics Dr Ayesha Taylor-Camara, and founder of Black Excellence Network UK Serita Murray join Richie to discuss. Richie also has a quick chat with founder and CEO of the UK Black Business Show, Dr Raphael Sofoluke to find out what to look forward at this year's event.

Following on from Nigerian Independence Day on October 1st, Richie Brave celebrates Nigeria's contributions to culture, music, food, fashion and more with The Flygerians.

Richie Brave talks to new students about their expectations and experiences of university life.Richie is also joined by journalist, broadcaster and now author Charlene White to talk about her new book No Place Like Home.Plus, midwife and content creator Mama Dinya speaks to Richie about the importance of representation in her field, and why Black maternal mental health is something we need to talk about more.

Would you go under the knife to achieve the body you want? Or take a weight loss pill that comes with huge risks? Richie Brave and his guests, Justin Mob and Harmony from The Cosmetic Lane, Teacher from Birmingham Petra, rapper IVD and 1Xtra family Nadia Jae discuss cosmetic procedures and body confidence. Plus, hear stories from those who have taken different routes to achieve their body goals. @1Xtra on social

Richie Brave discusses the new zombie knife laws with founder of Faz Amnesty, Faron Paul. And should rappers stay in the game after 40? Richie talks it over with audio producer and rapper Chris Mitchell, aka Kinetik. Richie also hears from hip-hop artist and co-founder of Liverpool Hip Hop Festival, Nikki Blaze.

What are the realities of living with non-visible disabilities? Richie is joined by video editor and director Tyra Chuck and her mother Sonia to talk about how hearing loss has impacted their family. Founder of Keep Smyelin Amber Flynn Prince shares her journey of living with MS. Rapper Akes joins Richie to talk about navigating life with Cerebral Palsy. Richie also hears from singer-songwriter turned podcaster GG, on her experience of living with Crohn's Disease.

Is football a part of British Black culture? Richie Brave is joined by Associate Professor of Film, Culture and Society at UCL, Dr Clive Nwonka, to talk about his new book Black Arsenal: Club, Culture and Society. And with this year marking 25 years since the introduction of the electronic tag, Richie is joined by poet, broadcaster and TEDx speaker Lady Unchained to discuss the latest BBC documentary series Britain's Most Tagged. Richie also hears from the series director Izzy Fonseca.

As part of the British Library's Beyond the Bassline, Richie Brave sits down with legend Kele Le Roc, singer-songwriter Shae Universe, multi award-winning rapper Avelino, and journalist and writer Aniefiok Ekpoudom to talk about the evolution of British Black music.

Richie Brave and guests discuss asexual representation and the importance of creating safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. Plus, do we give enough flowers to our Black LGBTQIA+ icons? Richie is joined by model and award-winning asexual activist Yasmin Benoit, music lawyer and cofounder of the Black Men In Law Network, Isaac James, and storyteller and founder of Touch Grass, Toni Murphy.

Are you a fan of Badderz UK? The show's executive producer Lani Good will be talking to Richie about what inspired her to create the show, the reaction to season 1, and what she plans to do next! How can we help more young people step into creative industries? Author, youth activist, public speaker and entrepreneur Jeremiah Emmanuel joins Richie to talk about his programme to help break down some of the barriers. What are your thoughts on age gap relationships? Richie is joined by UK Thanos herself, Tumelo, to get her thoughts!And because it's Afrosounds Weekender across 1xtra, Richie is also chatting with the founders of Dankie Sounds about their legendary events!

July 30th 2024 marks 19 years since the racially motivated killing of 18-year-old Anthony Walker in Liverpool. Richie is joined by Anthony's sister Dominique, and radio presenter and producer Ngunan Adamu to reflect on who Anthony was as a person and the impact of his murder on the community. They will also discuss the amazing work being done by The Anthony Walker Foundation in his honour. With the Olympic Games just around the corner, Richie asks 'what isn't an Olympic sport, but should be'? He is also joined by the first Black woman ever to swim for Great Britain, Rebecca Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, who talks about her new book These Heavy Black Bones and her plans for the future. Richie is also joined by founder and creative producer at Side eYe Productions, Hannah Abdule, to talk about British Somali representation as part of the changing landscape of Black British theatre.

Richie Brave and guests discuss Hurricane Beryl and West End play Shifters.With the news of devastation caused in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, what more can we do as a community to help those who need it most? Broadcaster and journalist Sinai Fleary will be giving Richie a rundown on the latest developments. Community activist Saskia M De Silva will also be joining the show to talk about some of the community initiatives taking place. And with Bush Theatre's smash hit play Shifters starring Tosin Cole opening in the West End in August, writer Benedict Lombe and star Heather Agyepong join Richie to talk about finding soulmates and making meaningful connections.

Richie's asking the question, 'Have we become too stoosh or too worried about being filmed to truly have fun?' With guests Habiba Katsha, DJ Mexy, and Rhiane Fatinikun discussing everything from Festivals, day parties and the surge in outdoor activities like hiking and running clubs! We also catch up with Rapman about his new show Supacell and his own outdoor preferences.

Richie Brave and guests celebrate Black fatherhood, sharing stories about their fathers, as well as the memories they hope to create with their own children. @1Xtra on social

Richie Brave sits down with his guests to discuss their favourite Black British TV shows, past and present! @1Xtra on social

Richie Brave and guests explore how being mixed race in Britain shapes identity, and they delve into the cultural richness of being from a mixed heritage background. @1Xtra on social

Mary Mandefield and guests discuss UK Black podcasting success stories, from those who are smashing it on the mic, to people building empires behind the scenes. @1Xtra on social