Our world has many voices. We all share this space together, but each of us has our own opinions, our own identity. Join hosts Calvin, Brandon, and Lee, as they bring in guests to discuss various social issues that effect everyone. Each episode will tackle a different issue, with insights by members of some diverse communities. The only rule on this show? You have to be...STR8 UP.
We dive into the Trump Administration's renewed crackdown on undocumented immigrants. With ICE ramping up nationwide enforcement and families being torn apart, fear is rising and so are protests across the globe. Immigration Attorney Carla Casas joins us to unpack the chaos. She breaks down President Trump's aggressive immigration policies, explains what they really mean for those living undocumented in the U.S., and shares crucial legal advice for those at risk. Carla also offers actionable ways for communities to stand up, speak out, and support those living under constant threat of detention. This is a must-listen episode that hits at the heart of justice, humanity, and the future of immigration in America. FOLLOW CARLA CASAS: Instagram – @immigration.attorney.carla YouTube – @AbogadaCarlaCasas TikTok – @abogadacarla Facebook – Casas Immigration Website – www.casasimmigration.com
Being a Black man in America isn't just difficult, it's a daily struggle often overlooked. But when life gets heavy, where can Black men turn? Where are the safe spaces that remind them they're not alone? We sit down with Dr. Maurice Ball, community leader and life coach, for an honest conversation about the pressures Black men face, breaking generational trauma, and the importance of older Black men living with purpose to uplift future generations. This powerful discussion is one you don't want to miss. FOLLOW DR. MAURICE BALL Instagram: @cmauriceball1 YouTube, TikTok, Facebook: @cmauriceball Podcast: Open For Discussion
If you're a true music fan, you know the best songs are the ones that speak to your soul, and Las Vegas artist Kuttup is doing just that. On this electrifying episode of Music Monday, we sit down with Kuttup to uncover her journey into the music industry and what makes her style impossible to replicate. From her raw lyrics to her captivating stage presence, Kuttup is proving why she's one of the realest voices in the game right now. And to top it off, she takes the stage to perform her hit single, “What It Comes To.” Follow Kuttup: Instagram: @itskuttup TikTok: @kuttupmusic Stream her music on all platforms: Kuttup
Is social media silently impacting your mental health? Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jamie Micco of The Concord Center joins us and breaks down how social media can influence your emotional well-being for better or worse. Tune in as Dr. Micco shares cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based strategies to help you manage screen time, reduce stress, and develop healthier online habits. Follow Dr. Micco & The Concord Center: Website: www.concordcbt.com Facebook: @TheConcordCenter Instagram: @TheConcordCenter LinkedIn: The Concord Center, LLC
It's often said that we go through many tests so we can share powerful testimonies.On this Music Monday, we sit down with the incredibly talented gospel rapper Young Preach. He opens up about his troubled past, how it led him to God and music, and the biggest misconceptions about gospel rap. Then, Young Preach takes the stage to perform his anthem, “My Testimony.” FOLLOW YOUNG PREACH Facebook: @KennyPorterII YouTube: @YoungPreach1031 TikTok: @KennyP153
In our Season 9 premiere, we dive into one of the most polarizing issues in America today, immigration and mass deportations. With families being torn apart, we hear firsthand accounts from those directly impacted: Jaclyn, whose spouse is currently detained; Meg, whose father was deported during Trump's last presidency; Kev, who once unknowingly lived undocumented; and Vanessa, who faces racism simply for being Latina. Their powerful stories shed light on the human side of immigration policies and the lasting effects on families and communities. Don't miss this eye-opening and emotional episode. Follow Jaclyn – TikTok: @jaclynandjuan | Instagram: @jaclyntx_ Follow Kev – TikTok: @courtroomsixmayhem Follow Meg – TikTok: @ilovemeg.com Follow Vanessa – All platforms: @missvfromaz
In Part 1 of this 2 part episode, Erin Johnston, LPC-S of Healing Minds Counseling, discussed why so many are afraid to seek therapy. Erin returns to continue our groundbreaking conversation about why is much needed when going on your healing journey! Erin then gives tips to host, Calvin, about how he can overcome a previous toxic relationship. Healing Minds, LLC official website: https://www.healingmindsla.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1105799030695933
Why do most of us have Psychophobia or a fear of going to therapy? Are we scared to face our own truths or just afraid to acknowledge the trauma we keep pushing away? We talk to Erin Johnston, LPC-S of Healing Minds, LLC about the importance of therapy. Erin analyzes our previous episode, "The Mermaid Effect" and breaks down how therapy would have been beneficial in Calvin's toxic relationship. The 13 year licensed therapist then addresses some of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to therapy. Healing Minds, LLC official website: https://www.healingmindsla.com/ The Mermaid Effect episode: https://bit.ly/4brhKg3
If you're a football fan, you know that halftime IS game time for a lot of bands. But, if you're from New Orleans, Louisiana, being in a band is a way of life. We talk to Edna Karr High School's band director, Chris Herrero all about his award winning band. Chris joins us to talk about his unique style of leadership, his gifted students and how his band was able to capture the attention of the one and only Beyoncé. The Edna Karr Marching Band aka TEAM BUST EM UP then gives us a performance. Special thanks to: Chris Herrero Edna Karr High School City of New Orleans Follow Edna Karr: Instagram: @TheOfficialEdnaKarrBand Email: chris.herrero@inspirenolaschools.org Website: ednakarr.org
Women in rock bands are often overshadowed by their male counterparts, but the female led band RōZY is quickly making a Texas size impact on the music industry. On this Music Monday we talk to sisters Zoe Molly, guitar players Brandon and Aris about how the RōZY was formed, their upcoming music projects and an announcement about their next tour! The band then hits the Str8Up Stage to perform a song from the newest song "Crybaby." Follow RōZY: Website: www.rozyofficial.com All socials: @therozyofficial
HE'S BACK!! The one and only Pen Assassin himself, FIVE returns to Music Monday! Listen as FIVE talks about where he's been since he last came on the show, he's recent run in with rapper Dave East and his upcoming projects. FIVE then performs his single, “Reps” from his new album “Nothing Personal But It's Personal” available now on all streaming platforms.
It's a country full of love, music and pride. The Str8Up crew heads to Brazil. Join us as we talk to Marianna and Debbie, two Brazil natives, all about their home country. Our guest talk about the love of their culture and breakdown the misconnects the world has of Brazil and the Brazilian people.
In this age of social media, it's easy to find yourself being discouraged due to a number of life issues. But how you handle your negative situation is a practice that many of us can use. We talk to viral motivational speaker Will Diggs aka @WillKeepItReal about the different ways of having a motivating mindset. Will then gives our listeners encouraging message about self love. Follow Will Diggs: TikTok-@WILLKEEPITREAL2 Instagram-@WILLKEEPITREAL1 Youtube-@WILLKEEPITREAL
“All Roads Lead to Shreveport,” says Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson after his recent purchase of the old Millennium Studios in Shreveport, LA. But what does this mean for the area? We talk to Hollywood actors/stuntmen and longtime Shreveport-Bossier residents, Tim J. Smith and Dother Sykes IV about the impact G-Unit Film & Television Inc will have on northwest Louisiana and the surrounding areas. The two actors then give tips to locals who are hoping to one day work in TV & Film. Tim J. Smith: @timboslice1985 Dother Sykes IV: @therealdother
WE'RE BACK!! And boy, there is so much to talk about! On the Season 8 premiere, Calvin opens up about his personal love life by inviting two of his personal friends to the show. Tune in as they point out his flaws and help him cope with such a bad ending to a relationship/friendship/situationship. Where do you think he went wrong?
WE MADE IT TO 100 EPISODES!!!! But what does this mean for our podcast? Tune in as the Str8Up Crew celebrates this big milestone of reaching 100 podcast episodes. The crew also talks about the future of the Str8Up Show Podcast. Also, previous guests and listeners stop to congratulate the Str8Up crew on 100 episodes. Thank You to all of our supporters and listeners over these past 3 years. We would not be here without you. There's only one rule to our show, you got be....Str8Up! www.str8upshowpodcast.com
In our final installment of our Music Mondays, we talk to Shayliff lead singer, Shay Bailiff. Shay talks to us about his impressive music career and why audiences from all over can't get enough of his captivating voice. Shay then performs one of his band's hit singles, ”Stranger.” Follow Shay and Shayliff: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shayliff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shayliff/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Shayliff/videos All Music Platforms: @Shayliff
COVID-19 has been the biggest global topic in the world over these past couple of years, but are we finally at the end of the life changing pandemic? We continue our "COVID-19 Impact" series as we talk to traveling emergency physician, Yvette McQueen, MD. Tune in as Dr. McQueen gives us an update on the COVID-19 Pandemic and if we can start living a normal life. Dr. McQueen then provides guidance for handling common medical concerns while traveling. Follow Yvette McQueen, MD: Website: www.yvettemcqueenmd.com Instagram: @drtravel911 Order her book: www.travel911book.com
After gaining over 600 lbs, Anthony Lopez knew he had to make a change to his life. We talk to Anthony Lopez about his incredible weight loss journey and how he was able to lose over 350 lbs. Anthony then talks to us about his program, Heavy To Modified, which is helping others on their weight loss goals. Follow Anthony: Website: https://www.heavytomodified.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heavytomodified Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavytomodified/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavytomodified?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeavyToModified
When you're starting a business, getting your name out there can be a struggle. Bashir and Deon of Buy Black Television are using their platform to broadcast businesses from the black community. The BBTV hosts talks to us about the importance of exposing black businesses that many aren't aware of. The creators then reveal the future plans of Buy Black Television. Follow Buy Black Television: Social Media: @buyblacktelevision
The future of the African American Race is...? In part 2 of our Make African Americans Great Again episode, our special guests continue to discuss the current state of Black America. Our guests explain why things like health and utilizing resources are key to the future of African Americans. They also discuss how African Americans can learn how to unify when it comes to social issues.
When it comes to music, your name is your name. Rap artist Marlo Kyng's name is a name that is quickly becoming one that many wont forget. We sit down with Marlo and talk about his impressive lyrical style of rap and his upcoming music project. Marlo Kyng then hits the Music Monday to perform his hit single "New Vibrations." Follow Marlo Kyng: @marlokyng
How do we really celebrate Black History Month? Is it a month of pride? Shame? Guilt? Or all the above? In this two part episode, we talk about the current state of Black America and address the major issues happening that so many are dismissing. Our special guests then discuss if the scars of Black History are impacting this generation of Americans.
Each season, we like to travel back in time to show our listeners where Str8UP began. When we first started on television, we wanted to tackle heavy subjects that most would not be comfortable talking about. Listen as we go back in time and revisit a vintage episode to where we talked all about bullying. Our former panel talk about. The negative impacts bullying can have on others and share their personal stories about bullying
You've seen them in movies, tv and more than likely have visited their native land. But how much do you know about the culture? We talk to Chi Chi, who is Polynesian, all about the Polynesian culture. Chi Chi talks to us about the best parts about the culture and goes over some of the biggest misconceptions. Chi Chi also talks about the importance of embracing other cultures. Follow Chi Chi: Instagram/Tik Tok: @chichififita
Fresh off another box office hit with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Hollywood actor and stuntman, Tim J. Smith, talks to us about his impressive 15 year career. Tune in as Tim talks to us about how he got started in the business, films that he has worked on and what upcoming projects he has in store for movie goers. Tim also gives helpful advice to those who are inspiring to break into the TV and film business. Follow Tim J. Smith: Instagram: @Timboslice1985
Fresh off a successful Season 2, the crew from RTO is back for a 3rd Season of South Side on HBO Max. In our exclusive interview, co-creator, writer, producer and lead actor, Sultan Salahuddin gives us a preview of Season 3 and explains why South Side is one of the best comedies in decades. Follow Sultan Salahuddin: Instagram: @Simonjsouthside Website: www.lane44.org
Bonjour Les Amis! Last season we started series where we talked to different guests around the world about their culture. This season we are at it again as we go to one of the most romantic and historic places in the world…France. Tune in as our special guest Léna, talks to us all about the French culture and what makes France a great place to live. Léna then discusses common misconceptions the world has when it comes to the French culture.
When it comes to immigration, so many people are unaware of their rights when trying to enter the United States. But immigration attorney Cynthia Santiago, is going above and beyond on educating communities who are often misinformed. We talk to Abogada Santiago about the advice she has for undocumented immigrants who are seeking citizenship and those who could be facing deportation. Cynthia also gives an update on immigration laws that are currently going through congress. Follow Attorney Cynthia Santiago: IG: @AbogadaSantiago Facebook: Facebook.com/AbogadaSantiago Contact: 800-615-9096
In this day & age there are few rap artists who are considered true lyricist, but this artist is quickly proving why he's a lyrical force to be reckon with. We talk to the “Pen Assassin” Five. Tune in as he tells why his music has fans from all over wanting more and exclusive details about his upcoming project. Five then hits the stage perform his hit single “The Hustle Way.” Follow Five: YouTube: @YICPRODUCTIONS Instagram: @yicproductions Spotify: @Five
Why is it difficult for some men to express their emotions while dating or in a relationship? On this episode talk to social media influencer, Taylor Moore, about the importance of men's mental health during relationships and dating. Taylor also gives tips to women who often see men in a negative light. Follow Taylor Moore: TikTok: @Itstaytaybaybee2 @theworldisyours_69 Instagram: @itstaytaybaybeee YouTube: @itstaytaybaybee
As we approach the end of a podcast journey, we continue to open up with personal stories of how Str8Up began. On this episode, our host Calvin talks with sister and cousins about their late grandmother Bertha. 27 years after throwing a party to honor her grandchildren, Bertha's grandchildren reflect on her life lessons she has taught them and how it inspired Calvin to get into journalism. Special thanks to: John (RIP), Lorie, Patricia, Ronald (RIP), Latricia and Pamela.
Is Childhood Trauma real? Do you believe how a child was treated growing up can impact their livelihood? On this episode we talk to mental health expert Dr. Monique Thompson, DHA, LPC, LPC-S about how to unpack childhood trauma. Dr. Thompson also gives us tips on how we can deal with generational trauma as well. Follow Dr. Monique Thompson https://doctormoniquethompson.com/
It is a new season which means we're bringing back a fan favorite, Music Mondays. Tune in as we talk to Filipino -Canadian singer, Geneva Lei. One this episode, Geneva Lei talks to us about her ability to structure her songwriting in a way that speaks directly to her fans and her upcoming music projects. She then hits the stage to perform her newest single "Sober." Follow Geneva Lei: @GenevaLei
Once known as the #1 Female DJ in all of Texas and a proud member of LGTBQ+ Community, DJ Sno White quickly found herself part of Cancel Culture. On our Season 7 premiere, we talk to DJ Sno White about how her political views cost her the respect of many in her community but helped her gain new sense of life. Also, the Str8Up Crew has some groundbreaking news in regard to the future of our podcast.
On February 24 2021, Russian troops began to invade parts of Ukraine. Fast forward to today, many around the world have forgotten about the struggles Ukrainians are still facing. On our groundbreaking season finale, we talk to Julia, a Ukrainian native who has been at ground zero of the senseless acts by the Russian military. Tune in as Julia walks us through on what it was like leaving her home and contributing to her fellow Ukrainian neighbors.
Is age just a number when it comes to doing the things you want in your every day life? In this throwback episode from our college days of Str8Up, the former Str8Up crew talk about how age impacts their lives. Big Thanks to Communications family at Bossier Parish Community College.
Our listeners asked for it and we have now given it to them! This episode we have Part 2 of our epic Dating Boot Camp episode featuring the Str8Up Dating Experts PJ and Kitty of UnDivorceable Tune in as the two love birds answer questions submitted exclusively from our listeners. Also what is the big announcement ?!?! Find out! Follow Undivorceable: Instagram: @Undivorceable Instagram: @KittySpeakslove TikTok: @Undivorceable4u YouTube: Undivorceable with PJ and Kitty YouTube: Matters of Life 365
In our new series, Cultural Conversations, we seek to speak to and learn from other cultures other than on own. This episode we speak to Abbey, a journalist from Australia, about her life as an Aussie. Abbey then talks about the global misconceptions people when it comes to the land of long weekends. Follow Abbey: Instagram: @abbey_from_newsroom Facebook: @AbbeyVictoria #Australia #Aussie #Str8upshowpodcast #Part1 #NewEpisode #Australians #Queensland #Melborne
CALLING ALL WRESTLING FANS!!! Icons like The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin have helped form a united fan base like no other in the world of Sports Entertainment. On this episode, we talk to Black Wrestling Geeks United, a wrestling fans group, about why they love wrestling so much. The group also discuss why so many people make fun or refuse to understand the obsession of pro wrestling. If you don't like this episode we have two words for ya.......
The Supreme Court has overturned the 1973 ruling of Roe V. Wade, which now eliminates women's federal constitutional right to abortion. And now so many are flooding the streets to celebrate and protest The Supreme Court's decision. On this episode, the Str8Up Crew shares their thoughts on the Supreme Court's new ruling on abortion. The crew also discuss vasectomies and the role they should play when it comes to women's health.
Happy Pride Month! In our annual Pride Month episode, our guest Jessica talks to us about her long journey as a transgender woman. And now that certain laws are targeting members of the LGBTQ+, Jessica gives her thoughts on transgender parents and young adults who are considering gender confirmation. Love is love!
This June, we as a nation get to celebrate the day when African Americans were freed from slavery and their contributions to America since. We talk to community leader and educator Vencil Holmes about the importance of the Juneteeth Holiday. Vencil then gives us his view on the current state of Black America. Happy Juneteeth!!
From the COVID- 19 Pandemic to the war in Ukraine, people are stressed out. So much so that they are behaving in ways they normally would not. We talk to award-winning author Adele Spraggon, about how our over-emphasis on our left hemisphere has created a world in which stress, overwhelm, isolation, confusion, and worry are now part of everyday living. Adele then gives us steps on how to shift our brain so that we can reach our goal of personal empowerment. Follow Adele: Website: www.AdeleSpraggon.com IG/Twitter: @adelespraggon Facebook: @adelespraggonrepatternist Order Shift: 4 Steps to Personal Empowerment: www.Shift4Steps.com
Calvin is out sick with COVID, so we're giving you a taste of what Brandon and Kristina are doing with STR8UP EXTRA. In this episode, the two sit down to talk about how some conversations can quickly lose productivity and never come to some common ground. Defensive and aggressive talking is being used too much in our everyday lives. Brandon and Kristina talk about three ways you can ensure you're not coming across as such by thinking about three rules when having a conversation. Str8Up Show Podcast WebsiteOur PatreonStr8Up MerchandiseMusic by AvesOpening and closing is Rainbow City
Whether you've traveled through or heard it in the media, chances are you've heard of Shreveport, Louisiana. And Since our STR8UP crew is mostly from Shreveport, we have plenty that we can say about our hometown. We talk to Shreveport Author and host of the "A Lil Tea Time Podcast" Jrayis Deyond about the current climate in Shreveport and what to expect in the city's future. Jrayis then tells us on how he's able find success in Shreveport no matter what outside critics have to say. Follow Jrayis Deyond: Facebook @Jerrick Akingamongmen Thomas Instagram @Stronggiftedruler29 and @thejrayisdeyond Tiktok @thejrayisdeyond Twitter @ThomasJerrick Email @Jerrickthomas27@yahoo.com Youtube @ Jerrick AKingAmongMen Podcast on Spotify at A Lil Tea Time Order Book "Coming Full Circle" https://amzn.to/3FMkWE6
With so much hate going on in the world today, it seems that a lot of people forget to use love to heal. Some use religion as a guideline but some can be restrictive. But how does love work for you and I? On this episode we talk to author Juan Lee, author of "Love Made Simple," about making love simple. Juan Lee will tell us why most religions feel restrictive when it comes to the message of love and how to separate the message from the practice. Juan Lee will tell us why most religions feel restrictive when it comes to the message of love and how to separate the message from the practice. Follow Juan Lee: Website: www.juanleetheauthor.com Facebook: @Juanleeauthor Instagram: @Juanleeauthor Twitter: @Lovemadesimple Linkedin: Juan Lee Clubhouse: Juan Lee
If you're a fan of our podcast, you know that we are fans of cartoons, both new and nostalgic. Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon both have produced some iconic TV shows, but who and the better shows? Are you Team Nick or Team Cartoon Network? Better yet, who wins it all? Find out
Season 6 is already off to great start and that also means the return of our Music Monday episodes. On this episode, we hang out with East African artist Layne Tadesse. The Eritrea native talks to us about his culture and how his unique style has his fans and other wanting more. Layne also goes over his future musical projects and concludes with a performance of one of his hit songs. Follow Layne Tedesse www.laynetadesse.com www.newnatinrecords.com IG: @layne_tadesse Facebook: @laynetadessemusic
The world can be a cruel place to those who are on the higher end of the weight spectrum. The fear and the hatred towards these individuals is happening so often that its now being dubbed as fatphobia. On our season premiere, we talk to Ridhi, someone who has dealt with this new form of discrimination and how she was able to combat those who appeared to be fat phobic Our guest then tells us how Fatphobia now impacts her after going through incredible weight loss journey.
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