Pop culture meets racism and privilege. An homage to diversity. Each episode, TAJ and Will tackle social issues ranging from racism to gender bias and discuss how they dictate current events, whether in pop culture, across the globe, or somewhere in between.
The podcast's one hundredth episode! Much love and appreciation for our listeners and viewers, whether you were part of the convo since Episode One, Episode 50, or just recently --- thank you all for rocking with us! On this milestone episode, TAJ & Will tackle the podcast's most heralded topic: separating the art from the artist. Can you enjoy R. Kelly's music while knowing he was found guilty of charges that include sexual exploitation of a child and sex trafficking? Did you rush to hear Kanye's Donda album despite everything he was saying just a couple years ago? And how do we determine if someone linked to an artist is “guilty by association”? Do you tune into NFL every week with knowledge of how Colin Kaepernick was silenced? A lot of layers to this topic, and the both of them get into all of it. Then, as promised, they have a special announcement on the podcast's one hundredth! Rock with us! Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
One away from the podcast's hundredth episode! Big announcement coming in Episode 100, so don't miss it! In Episode 99, TAJ & Will hold no punches against the anti-vaxxers of the NBA, and they discuss whether LeBron James should speak up on this matter, plus the vaccine becoming politicized and agendas targeting the Black community. Then, they talk about the social media outage that had Instagram and Facebook down, and they imagine what society would be like if the social media platforms never came back. Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
Kick it with us for this chill episode! TAJ & Will have some meaningful therapy talk after TAJ talks about having his first ever therapy session this week. Then, they talk about the representation and impact of Rihanna's Fenty show and the unfortunate truth about how things unfolded with Britney Spears and the conservatorship. TAJ & Will also find parallels between their respective emotional experiences watching Shang-Chi and the Black Panther, both getting the full Marvel blockbuster treatment. Then, they discuss R. Kelly being found guilty of all charges after 11 sexual abuse victims testified against him. Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
In this episode, TAJ & Will unpack some of the layers of Netflix's Clickbait limited series, from race to workplace privilege, plus the pros and cons of social media. They also talk about its parallels to the real-life coverage of Gabby Petito and discuss "missing white woman syndrome". Then, they touch on representation at the recent Emmys. Rest In Peace, Gabby Petito. Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will had a blast recording this one. In this entertaining episode, they disagree as they discuss Nicki Minaj's COVID-19 vaccine tweets (9:50). They also talk about the influence of celebrities like Nicki Minaj and Kyrie Irving on the public, and they get into Kyrie's mysterious tweet mentioning his "mask is off" (16:45). Other topics include the US Women's Gymnastics Olympians calling out the FBI and the system for enabling the abuse of gymnasts by Larry Nassar (36:00), the podcast's thoughts on the screening process for deciding on the best therapist for you (43:55), the latest Verzuz battle between Fat Joe and Ja Rule (0:30), the MET Gala, the US Open Women's Final, and more! Rock w/ us! Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will start the episode with a tribute to barrier breaker and legendary actor Michael K. Williams, and they talk about the memorable characters he played throughout his career (3:00). Afterward, they congratulate Derek Jeter for being inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame and talk about him as a role model (17:00). Then, for the 20th anniversary of September 11, they both recount their experiences of that day as kids (26:00), the trauma that comes with seeing September 11 unfold at a young age (30:40), xenophobia, and TAJ shares his emotional experience at the 9/11 memorial in 2009 (36:40). They end the episode with their thoughts on the Texas abortion ban and rape (41:25). Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
This episode is a good one. School is back, but during such uncertain times. Is it safe for the students? Is it safe for the teachers? Should all workers be vaccinated? TAJ & Will start this episode by discussing school returning to in-person classes during covid, the remaining unvaccinated folks, required vaccinations, did society reopen too early, and more. Then, they shift gears to the polarizing Kanye West after the release of his album, "Donda" (24:30). They talk about how people flip-flopped their stance on Kanye, Kanye tying his actions and music to God, what message is Kanye trying to send, the coupling of religion and conservatives, and caring for Kanye's mental health while holding him accountable. Barrier Breakers: Shang-Chi (now in theaters!) for repping as Marvel's first Asian superhero and Nia DaCosta for being the 1st Black woman director with a top box office debut (for Candyman). Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will talk about the "Hood Olympics" and #CrateChallenge that took over social media (10:45), does society care about the health and wellbeing of sex workers plus OnlyFans reversing their plan to ban sexually explicit content (16:30), Beyonce getting backlash for the new Tiffany & Co. campaign (29:40), and much more! Other topics include a salute to MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani for his historic season, sending love to Aaliyah, and hip-hop shoutouts including Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, and Fat Joe. IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
And we back! Super chill episode. Will returns as a married man. TAJ & Will start the episode by reflecting on the great wedding and reception that you missed. Then, the two share recent nightmare airport and flight stories (14:50), including anti-maskers delaying TAJ's flight (23:05) and Will's return to JFK Airport from his honeymoon (29:30). Kick it with us! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
A lot to unpack in this episode. TAJ & Will have opposing perspectives on the recent controversy involving ESPN's Rachel Nichols and Maria Taylor (5:00), and they discuss ESPN's history of mishandling issues linked to race, diversity VS inclusion, Bill Cosby being released from prison after sexual assault conviction is overturned, NCAA student athletes to get paid for their likeness, Britney Spears and the justice system, Sha'Carri Richardson being suspended after testing positive for marijuana, Black identity not being welcome at the Olympics, the #MeToo movement, plea deals, and more! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
In this episode, TAJ & Will start with Bow Wow and Soulja Boy's impact on them growing up. Then they talk about the Florida condo collapse as they switch from rescue to recovery mode, possible causes, and climate change. They also salute Carl Nassib for becoming the first active player in the NFL to publicly identify as gay, Queen Latifah as a barrier breaker, and they discuss T-Pain saying he battled depression because of Usher, Derek Chauvin being sentenced to 22.5 years for murder of George Floyd, the latest of The Chi, support for Britney Spears, and more. IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
In this packed episode, TAJ & Will start with some light talk about the “speak now” wedding tradition. Then (7:00), they get into their past experiences in US history class, Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday while schools are being banned from teaching about it, critical race theory, a recent Jersey City school history assignment comparing police killings to lynchings, whether saying “Stop Asian Hate” is problematic, Pride Month and the Stonewall Riots, a recent Euro football incident as another example of not valuing mental health of athletes, and much more! Yes, in our bag. Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will start the episode with some brief mourning for the Lakers, they discuss whether the NBA really cares about the health of the players, and they compare expectations of young LeBron to young MJ. Then, they give their initial thoughts on the new season of Showtime's The Chi, the show's Black joy, and their mention of "defunding the police" (18:30). Afterward, they talk about Naomi Osaka withdrawing from the French Open while revealing mental health struggles, sports addressing (or not addressing) mental health, and how society views celebrities citing mental health issues (32:30). Rock w/ us as we cover all that and more in this episode! Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will start the episode with their thoughts on the latest episode of HBO's The Shop, which was blessed with gems from Jay-Z. Then, they talk about the 1st Round of the NBA Playoffs, surprising teams, NBA's top five players today, comparing Damian Lillard and Stephen Curry, and more. This leads to a debate about the recent incidents of disrespectful NBA fan behavior, protecting the players, and more. Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
And we back! TAJ & Will talk about the recent CDC and Biden updates on no longer wearing masks, the NBA playoffs, DC sending mental health crisis teams to some 911 calls, Gigi Bryant's purpose, the WNBA, Showtime's "The Chi" returns with a new season, and more. Other topics include J. Cole, "Two Distant Strangers", racism being political, and the Ellen Degeneres Show coming to an end. Rock w/ us as we run through all these topics! Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will talk about street dining during covid, some of the barrier-breaking moments of the Oscars, representation in the film industry, finding out that "Parasite" had no acting nominations, Joe Rogan VS Fauci: who are you taking health advice from, vaccine privilege in America while countries continue to struggle with shortages of crucial supplies for survival, Dr. Umar saying that Naomi Osaka should not represent Japan in the Olympics, Naomi Osaka speaking out for Black Lives Matter, and much more. Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
This episode, TAJ & Will discuss the defense of the Derek Chauvin trial, some of the recent shootings, the loopholes that exist within "the system", administrative leave, community and police discourse, and much more. Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
TAJ & Will start the podcast by showing love to DMX and talking about what made him so unique and transcend hip-hop. They also talk about celebrating legends and barrier breakers while they're here, spirituality, and assumptions about addiction. Then, they discuss the attention-seekers of social media and the desire to be "first to report" clashing with integrity and ethics in journalism (28:20). TAJ & Will also veer into an honest conversation about self-empowerment (47:30) and a common mistake people make when getting into relationships (54:00). Then, they wonder if there should be a day of "no social media access" each year (58:00). They conclude this episode with appreciation for Earth, Wind & Fire and the Isley Brothers after their incredible Verzuz battle (1:02:30). Rest In Peace, Earl Simmons! Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals Email: breakbarrierpod@gmail.com
One of the best episodes yet. TAJ & Will are joined by their good friend Kenny of “Conversations with YourMomsFavorite”, who calls in for this special episode. They start with some quick pro-vax talk, and then they discuss the film: Judas and the Black Messiah (7:50). Their breakdown touches on pros and cons of casting the same people for the underrepresented, and also whether films portraying the Black plight are traumatizing for Black viewers (15:45). They talk about Meghan McCain's comments on “identity politics”, her qualifications, and representation after posting her support for #StopAsianHate (29:05). Then, TAJ & Will get into a heated discussion about whether Asian people are doing enough to lead the #StopAsianHate movement and TAJ gets into the stark reality of Asian people not being seen, heard, or checked on (37:25). The unfiltered back-and-forth continues with a discussion about Asian representation, anti-Blackness, and the root cause of societal divide (50:15). Super packed episode. Rock with us. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ @yourmomsfavpodcast Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals @yurmomsfavorite
In this episode, TAJ & Will start with a discussion about New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and whether he should resign amid allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior. Then, they talk about racism within the Royal family, media coverage contrast of Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, and the interview with Oprah. They also talk about NBA player Meyers Leonard uttering an anti-Semitic slur, Papa John spending months to remove the n-word from his vocabulary, anti-Asian hate crimes, and more. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ & Will's good friend Dennis calls in, and they talk about the WNBA sparking movements for positive change, new Atlanta Dream ownership, and whether Maya Moore should return to the WNBA. Then, they discuss the NBA season, Kyrie Irving's thoughts on Kobe Bryant becoming the new logo, football player Zlatan Ibrahimovic criticizing LeBron James, and more. [This episode, they also gave their All-Star weekend predictions, which turned out to be strong and wrong lol] Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Find us on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Google, etc. IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
In this episode, TAJ & Will address the attacks targeting Asian American communities, Asians "not belonging" in society, the Britney Spears documentary, the power of rhetoric and media in controlling public perception, celebrating Black excellence, and much more! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Happy birthday to Will, a young king! Cash app this man, $WilliamJamesRyals! For this episode, now that the dust seems to have settled (or nah), TAJ & Will talk about Gamestop, Robinhood, and good ol' capitalism. They also acknowledge the recent loss of some historical barrier breakers, including Cicely Tyson. Then, they discuss churches making political stances, plus much more! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Salute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In this episode, TAJ & Will talk about the side of Dr. King that wasn't taught in their elementary schools. They also revisit the "Get Out" theory from Episode 58 of this podcast and wonder how the present will be viewed in history books 50 years from now. Other topics include censorship, freedom of speech, the Nets, LeBron VS Jordan, and much more! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
The first episode of 2021 is here! No surprises in this one: TAJ & Will quickly exchange pleasantries before diving right into the recent attack on the Capitol and the many layers of what unfolded. They also talk about Showtime's new TV series Your Honor and the parallels it has to "the system". Other topics include Georgia and Stacey Abrams, the NBA season, and much more! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
In celebration of the podcast's second birthday, TAJ & Will invite special guest Dennis for an NBA edition on the season tipoff week! Topics include Dennis holding on to hope with the Knicks, Will's high expectations of the Lakers, and TAJ's loyalty to the Nets during the struggle years in Newark. They clash on playoff predictions, and they talk about the Bucks, the Rockets, James Harden, Lebron James, and much more. Kick it with us for a much-needed stress-free episode of laughs and basketball. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! NEW on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
NEW on YouTube! The goal is 30 subscribers by the end of 2020! Get your friends! Get your family! Subscribe! Rock with us, and we'll be posting exclusive video content! This episode, TAJ & Will jump right into their issues with the Grammys and mainstream award shows, including snubs of artists like The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar. Then, they talk about Barack Obama being against the slogan “defund the police”. Other topics include Vanderbilt kicker Sarah Fuller being the first woman to score in a Power Five college football game, soccer star turned COVID19 doctor, and much more! As always, big shoutout to the legends, AZ and Nas! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! NEW on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @breakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
NEW on YouTube! The goal is 30 subscribers by the end of 2020! Get your friends! Get your family! Subscribe! Rock with us, and soon we'll be posting exclusive video content! TAJ & Will are back from the holiday break and talk about the much needed glimpse of normalcy with family time in 2020. They also talk a bit about COVID concerns putting a hold on Christmas and holiday gatherings. Then, as the episode title implies, they talk about many things HBO, from The Undoing to the pros and cons of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion. They also talk about Euphoria's comeback, and they show their appreciation for shows like Grey's Anatomy that address COVID and current social issues. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! NEW on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0qneYn1sQUikJknAXVjKjA Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Rock with us for one of our looser episodes! They talk about Eva Longoria's recent comments that came across as a slight to Black women voters (she apologized for this), and they get into a discussion about when the term "people of color" becomes problematic. They also salute to Barrier Breaker Kim Ng as the first woman to become an MLB General Manager, and they show love to the great Alex Trebek and what he meant to family dinner time. Other topics include them adjusting to video recording (we are now on YouTube!), the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, murder mysteries, and much more. TAJ & Will are all over the place in this episode with sidebars, jokes, and reminiscing about past shows and simpler times. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Help the Philippines! https://www.simplygiving.com/event/MTBmN2NkMTItZjY0ZS00ZjM4LWFlNTMtZDFkNWUyNDRhZGNl?secret=true NEW on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaPM4erObAERU2-W9EQuLO7uMUssFpE6r Available on all podcast streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Recorded this the night before Joe Biden was declared the winner, but some people have not yet let go. TAJ and Will are back to discuss the election, electoral college, historic turnout of voters, people realizing the importance of their vote, swing states, the "cool and lazy" take on politics and government, why are religion and politics mixed together so often, the NBA rushing into the next season, and more. Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! YouTube too?! Stay tuned! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Throughout this episode, TAJ and Will celebrate Filipino American History Month! TAJ reflects on his experience growing up as a Filipino American (10:18) and they talk about Filipino culture going unnoticed in the mainstream (14:36). Then, they get into the End SARS movement in Nigeria and compare it to the current protests in the US (23:14). They also talk about the history of corruption in the Philippines around the 70s, plus the assassination of Ninoy Aquino Jr. leading to the People Power Revolution (28:40). They also have an unfiltered discussion about hypocrisy in religion (38:28), San Francisco's CAREN Act and Will's suggestion for improved emergency calls (45:40), and our Nigerian correspondent shares his thoughts on the End SARS movement (48:20). Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will salute to the NBA as this episode's Barrier Breaker and show love to Jeanie Buss as the first woman to win an NBA championship as the team's controlling governor. Then, they discuss California potentially becoming the first state to follow through with reparations (13:34). They also talk about a new program in Denver that sends a paramedic and mental health expert to 9-1-1 calls instead of police (15:53), and then they give their takes on the backlash Ice Cube has gotten for connecting with Trump (25:00). Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
In this episode, TAJ and Will talk about the Lakers winning the 2020 NBA championship (9:20) and show love to the Seattle Storm for winning the 2020 WNBA championship (14:40). Then, they share their thoughts on charges in the Breonna Taylor case not being related to her death (16:35), the entertaining yet cringeworthy debates and the risk of encouraging open dialogue (25:42), Trump VS COVID-19 (43:18), AOC as this episode's Barrier Breaker (47:40), and much more! Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will kick off the podcast by showing love to Ruth Bader Ginsburg as one of the great Barrier Breakers of all time. Then, they talk about Lori Loughlin getting to choose her prison facility (7:30), White people not being comfortable with the fact that they have privilege (11:04), the attempt to ban TikTok leading to young TikTokers launching voter registration campaigns (23:30), and New York's new chokehold ban potentially being amended after NYPD raises concerns (27:50). Then, they debate whether Kanye West is truly “for the people” (37:03). Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will start with some exciting news to share about the podcast! Then, since school is back (for now), they talk about schools reopening. Then, TAJ presents a pyramid scheme that he feels everyone would love to join and speaks out against the “crabs in a bucket” mentality (9:35). Back with another Switch Up (until they hilariously fail and abandon it mid-segment): TAJ and Will tackle the mention of White privilege after Steve Nash becomes the Nets head coach (16:45). Then, they celebrate some of today's Barrier Breakers, including Naomi Osaka for winning the US Open while honoring Black victims of racial injustice (39:25), Dak Prescott for opening up about depression and anxiety (46:30), and NFL players locking arms for unity during the national anthem and being met with boos (54:20). Then, TAJ and Will address “All Buildings Matter” and share their experiences on September 11, 2001 (57:00). Will brings up the issue of this country's fixation on trauma (1:02:35), and TAJ talks about news coverage and society's infatuation with sensationalism and negativity (1:06:20). Want to hear us tackle a certain topic/story? Email breakbarrierpod@gmail.com or slide in the DMs with suggestions, and we'll try to cover it on the pod and give you a shoutout! Available on all major streaming platforms! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will dedicate the podcast to King Chadwick Boseman and start the podcast by reflecting on his influence, life purpose, and his ability to wear the hero cape in real life. Then, the two of them have a vulnerable conversation about their takes on everything that's come with 2020 (18:20). Then, friendly banter ensues to lighten the mood, including the fate of TAJ's beard potential and Will on gray hair (23:12). Then, they talk about the Jacob Blake shooting (23:00) and the raw responses of the WNBA, NBA and sports world (46:00), the NBA resuming the season with a plan of action for addressing social issues (57:00), and more! Also mentioned in this episode: disability bias, representation matters, not giving good people their flowers while they're here, misconceptions of politicians, athletes not shutting up and dribbling, and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @thebreakbarrierpod, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
The podcast starts with TAJ sharing his experiences with hospital food (2:15) before he and Will talk about the impact of COVID19 on hospitals. This leads to a discussion about the recent report that Black newborns are more likely to die when looked after by White doctors (11:30). Then, they discuss Megan Thee Stallion breaking her silence about the situation with Tory Lanez and then have an honest conversation about how society treats Black women (26:20). They also talk about the footage that was just released of the altercation involving an arena security officer and Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri (48:00). Also mentioned in this episode: capitalism in health, the surprise teams of the NBA playoffs, Luka Doncic, Lori Loughlin's prison sentence in college admissions case, Kamala Harris, USPS issues ahead of the election, and more! Stay tuned for more updates from us. Some good stuff on deck! Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will start the podcast by showing love to the people of Lebanon after the Beirut explosion. Then, they celebrate black culture by recapping the latest Verzuz event featuring Rick Ross and 2 Chainz (12:04), and then they debate whether Beyonce is the greatest artist of all-time (25:40). Afterward, they talk about the NBA Restart and the league's commitment to the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as the disconnect between social justice and some believers in the gospel (32:31). Then, they discuss TikTok potentially being banned in the US while Mark Zuckerberg capitalizes with an Instagram feature that mirrors the platform (42:28). Other topics include Ellen Degeneres's toxic work environment, The Rock purchasing XFL makes him the first person of color to own a football league, and more! Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
Hip Hop Harry would be proud of this episode. TAJ and Will love hip hop, so it's only right that they talk about recent events involving some of the biggest names of the genre. They start with their thoughts on the Verzuz battle of DMX vs Snoop Dogg. Then, they continue the hip hop conversation with a debate about J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake (9:35). They also talk about civil rights icon John Lewis and touch on the importance of questioning what's taught in U.S. history class (21:42). Then, TAJ and Will voice their concerns about Kanye West's health, and they tackle the negative public perception of the Kardashian family (36:20). TAJ also shares an idea for Tiktok to combat the ongoing issue of creators not being credited for their dances (47:17). Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will discuss international college students being targeted during COVID-19 and education not being prioritized (10:50), Chance the Rapper's stance on Kanye West for President, and how that perspective has an impact on the political game (24:30). Then, they talk about how society identifies/describes influential people of color before tackling the idea of fragility (31:00). Afterward, the podcast is back with another edition of the Switch Up segment! The Switch Up topic: Awkwafina, Asian people, and the “Blaccent” (44:23). Other topics include science is truth, all Black lives matter, and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will give their thoughts on the 2020 BET Awards. Then, they discuss Lil Wayne's take on police brutality (13:10), Terry Crews doubling (and tripling) down on his stance on the Black Lives Matter movement with concerns of “black lives matter” becoming “black lives better” (19:51), the need for more than words from the NFL (26:50), and WNBA Superstar Maya Moore's biggest accomplishment happening off the court as an advocate for criminal justice reform (36:40), and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will start the episode with their thoughts on The Chi's season premiere, including the show adjusting to the kill-off of Jason Mitchell's character after sexual misconduct allegations, the show putting Chicago in a different light compared to what sensationalized news presents, and relating to the characters on the show. Then, they recap the back-and-forth between J. Cole and Noname fueled by tweets and gentle disses and TAJ tests out a new segment for the pod to emphasize objectivity (14:20). TAJ and Will disagree on the importance of the J. Cole VS Noname conversation (34:55). Then, they talk about the division among NBA players on resuming the season in Florida (48:45), COVID-19 still being here (56:50), and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
In this super packed episode, TAJ and Will start by diving right into Karen culture (4:20). TAJ revisits the Get Out movie to give a wild conspiracy theory relevant now more than ever (is he right?) (10:20). They also talk about the complexity of mental illness being exploited, and Will stresses the importance of not limiting to self-diagnosing (25:30). Then, they talk about the current climate forcing the hand of each company/brand to make a statement (31:30) and Reddit Co-Founder Alexis Ohanian's power move representing his acknowledgement of white privilege (35:00). TAJ has a PSA to non-black allies (45:00), they show love to Generation Z and talk about how they mesh with Generation Y (50:30), and Will brings up the issue of ageism as another hurdle for progress (56:00). Then, they give shoutouts to BTS and John Cena (1:01:00), discuss whether Kanye West have us fooled the whole time (1:08:30), TAJ reveals his lingering issue with TikTok (1:11:30), and Will talks Jess Hilarious's comments on cancel culture (1:13:30). All of that and much more. Kick it with us! If you're Karen, kick something else. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
During this episode, we have friend of the show Porsalin call in as we resume the necessary conversation about racism and privilege today. They discuss Blackout Tuesday, the patience and persistence of black people, media's coverage of the protests, who are the “allies”, and much more. Be sure to check out Porsalin's website: iamporsalin.com, where the Breaking the Barrier Podcast is featured! Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____, @porsalin_ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals, @iamporsalin
Note: This episode was recorded the evening of May 28, 2020. During this episode, TAJ and Will talk about systemic racism, George Floyd, being black in America, protesting, white privilege, debate whether there is hope for “the system” to change for the better, and much more. Stay safe and healthy, everyone. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
A doubleheader – two episodes drop in one day! On the night of “The Last Dance” Documentary's final installment, TAJ and Will talk about the perception of Michael Jordan, revisit the GOAT debate of Lebron VS Jordan and its flaws, why being like Mike was an impossible task even for him, and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will's good friend Dennis is back to talk about haircuts during COVID-19, NCAA having to adjust to the athlete empowerment movement, young NBA prospects getting paid for their likeness without NCAA, does Lavar Ball deserve his flowers, and more. Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will are joined by their good friend Dennis to discuss PTSD, mental health, nurses and doctors quitting during the pandemic, whether animals know about COVID-19, the new normal, streaming VS movie theaters, and much more. Serious talk to chill talk. Kick it with us! Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
TAJ and Will catch up and talk adjusting to the quarantine life, an update on Will's health, hip-hop to the rescue yet again, TAJ hates uncertainty, taking in too much news could threaten your mental health, and more! Like what you hear? Give us that 5-star rating on Apple! Subscribe on Apple and Spotify! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
At times, there's a disconnect between what the everyday person learns from the media and what's actually happening. Early this week, TAJ and Will spoke to a nurse currently in the trenches during COVID-19. During this episode, Will gets a real-time diagnosis based on his symptoms (does he have the coronavirus?). Then, they discuss nurses having to wear several hats at the hospitals right now, what it's like working in a hospital with a shortage of essential equipment, whether the fear of getting COVID-19 comes into play for doctors and nurses, why are some hospitals turning down requests for testing, whether the coronavirus is targeting young men, the media contributing to the chaos and panic, and much more. Special shoutout to Nyambeka for her time, knowledge, and perspective. Got a topic you want us to cover? Slide in the DMs and let us know! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
During this episode, TAJ and Will talk about celebrities and wealthy potentially getting priority testing over everyone even if they show no symptoms, TAJ sounds off as an Asian American against the use of the phrase “Chinese virus” in reference to COVID-19, the importance of not continuing the history of naming viruses after locations, Will confirms black people can get coronavirus, and more. Got a topic you want us to cover? Slide in the DMs and let us know! IG: @tajfcruz, @ryals____ Twitter: @breakbarrierpod, @tajfcruz, @therealryals
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