Trey's Table

In 1901, Australia wanted to ban Black and Asian immigration, but London said explicit racial laws looked bad diplomatically. So they invented the "50-Word Dictation Test. In this episode of the podcast, we explore Australia's history of anti-Black racism.

In 1935, Sinclair Lewis wrote It Can't Happen Here—a chilling novel about a populist demagogue who promises every citizen cash payouts, rallies anti-immigrant fervor, and steadily dismantles democracy from within. Lewis wasn't just writing fiction; he was issuing a warning. On the latest episode of Trey's Table, we examine the life and work of Sinclair Lewis, the first American to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. From his sharp critique of American fascism to his groundbreaking 1947 novel Kingsblood Royal—inspired by his close friendship with NAACP leader Walter White—we break down why Lewis's words are more urgent today than ever.

Next time you sit down for a meal at an upscale restaurant, take a look around. Who greets you at the door? Who takes your order? And who is working behind closed doors in the kitchen? In fine dining, servers in major metro areas can earn upwards of $100k to $150k annually in tips. Yet front-of-house positions remain overwhelmingly white. In the latest episode of Trey's Table (Episode 461), we dig into the history, the high-profile class-action lawsuits, and the unspoken racial dynamics of the dining room. Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of spaces we want to support.

NEW EPISODE: The Debate Over Hip-Hop's Most Controversial Word Can you separate hip-hop culture from the language embedded in its history? In this episode of Trey's Table, host Trey Smith dives deep into the heated, ongoing debate surrounding the N-word in hip-hop—sparked by the recurring conversations around South Bronx legend Fat Joe on The Joe Budden Podcast. From the origins of the genre with The Sugarhill Gang and Public Enemy to modern hits by Terror Squad, JAY-Z, and Kanye West, we examine: The Cultural Divide: Should anyone be using the word in music today, or is it time for hip-hop to move past it entirely? Identity & Proximity: When a non-Black Hispanic artist is born and raised at the epicenter of hip-hop culture, does context grant a pass? Anti-Blackness & Colorism: A hard look at identity within the Latin and Hispanic communities, featuring insights from Rosie Perez and cultural commentators. The Power of Words: Trey shares a candid story from his courtroom career that underscores the real-world impact of the language we normalize. Join the table for an honest, thoughtful discussion on art, race, influence, and responsibility.

The Korean War is often called America's "Forgotten War"—and even more forgotten are the struggles of the African American soldiers who served in it. Two years after Executive Order 9981 ordered the desegregation of the armed forces, Black troops—like those in the 24th Infantry Regiment—were still serving in segregated units and facing glaring racial bias in the military justice system. When Black soldiers were unjustly convicted for refusing suicidal orders without artillery or air support, NAACP Special Counsel Thurgood Marshall flew straight to Korea to uncover the truth. Step back in time to 1951 with the latest episode of Trey's Table as we break down the investigation, the court-martials, and the fight for justice on the front lines.

There are certain figures whose respect in the culture is simply understood. On the latest episode of Trey's Table, we're diving into "The List of People That Black People Don't Play About." From Dolly Parton's genuine love, decades of philanthropy, and unforgettable moments of allyship, to Hayley Williams' unapologetic stand for justice and Kyle Chandler's iconic, authentic portrayals on screen—we look at what truly earns a permanent place at the table. It's about more than fame or success; it's about respect, connection, and treating people right.

When you hear a song, what kind of picture does your mind build of the person singing it? In the latest episode of Trey's Table, we look at the incredible story of Sarah La Morena—a dark-skinned, Afro-Mexican singer captivating audiences worldwide with regional Mexican music. Born in California and adopted by a loving Mexican family in Zacatecas, Sarah's life challenges the shallow boundaries of race, expectations, and musical genres. Her journey opens the door to deeper, necessary conversations: What truly shapes our identity—our skin or the environment that loves and raises us? The nuances and debates surrounding transracial and transcultural adoption. Why we must dismantle the boxes that tell people what they are “allowed” to create, sing, or enjoy. From 80s pop to Living Colour to Frank Sinatra, music has always had the power to cross boundaries and unite souls.

New Episode of Trey's Table: Self-Defense, Domestic Violence, and the Trial of Keisha Golden While national media attention often zeroes in on high-profile cases like the Lindsay Clancy trial, countless stories at the critical intersection of race, gender, and the legal system slip under the radar. In this episode of Trey's Table, host Trey Smith breaks down the complex and heartbreaking case of Keisha Golden—an eight-month-pregnant woman in Chicago who faced first-degree murder charges after fatally stabbing her abusive partner in self-defense, only to resolve her case this week through a plea deal for involuntary manslaughter. In this episode, we explore: The Legal Realities of Self-Defense: Why traditional doctrines of self-defense and "proportionality of force" routinely fail victims of domestic abuse. The Coercion of Plea Deals: An insider look from a defense attorney's perspective on how high bonds, pre-trial detention, and mandatory minimums pressure even innocent defendants into pleading guilty. Historical Precedents: The legacy of Battered Woman Syndrome, from the landmark 1977 Francine Hughes ("The Burning Bed") case to modern reforms like New York's Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act. Overlooked Voices: Examining the contrast in public empathy and media coverage between cases, remembering Marguerite Whitley, and demanding accountability in local judicial and prosecutorial elections. How can our criminal legal system better protect victims of domestic violence before tragedy strikes?

Why has there never been a Black majority owner in NFL history? With the kickoff of the NFL regular season just around the corner, we're digging into what many describe as the most exclusive fraternity in the United States: NFL team owners. In this episode of Trey's Table, we break down: * The stark racial demographics behind the league's controlling ownership. * The staggering financial barriers and family dynastic structures keeping the gates closed. * The legal bombshells emerging in Brian Flores' discrimination lawsuit. * How unified player power—highlighted by DeMaurice Smith's inside account in Turf Wars—stopped Rush Limbaugh from buying into the league back in 2009. * A special listener letter from Iceland that sparks a conversation about passion, storytelling, and where the show goes next. Black players make up over half the league on the field, but when will that translate to controlling the boardroom?

From an enslaved master craftsman in 1790 to the nation's oldest Black-owned architecture and construction management firm—this is the story you weren't taught in history class.

When the next Congress is sworn in, the House of Representatives is projected to have zero Black Republican members—a shift driven by retirements, state race pivots, and primary losses like that of Michigan candidate Amir Hassan. In our latest episode of Trey's Table, we break down what happened in Michigan's 8th District, how primary voters reacted to Hassan's background, and why a political monopoly on any community's vote leaves voters overlooked or taken for granted. We also look back at Gen. Colin Powell's iconic 2008 commentary on why religious bigotry has no place in American democracy.

For centuries, a secret society composed of wealthy, influential white people in St. Louis put on an annual holiday ball and parade. The organization was founded by former members of the Confederacy and other white supremacist organizations. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss a book that exposes the history of this organization and other secret societies that were founded on white supremacy.

Behind the glitz, the glamour, and the platinum records of the music industry lies a hidden history of exploitation.

Chris Rufo takes the L as his Stop Woke Act is declared unconstitutional.

We don't know how many innocent people have been convicted and sentenced to death because of flawed forensic science. Let's explore how the lives of three men were impacted by junk science in criminal cases. #treystablepodcast

Real Talk, Deep History: Race and the Fourth Amendment

Did you know that according to USA Swimming, over 64% of African American children have low to no swimming ability? Even more tragic, Black children between the ages of 5 and 19 are six times more likely to drown in a swimming pool than their white peers. These numbers aren't a coincidence, a stereotype, or a genetic trait. They are the direct result of a calculated, generational history of systemic racism, segregation, and violence. In the latest episode of Trey's Table, we dive deep into the waters of American history to uncover how municipal pools became one of the most violent battlegrounds for civil rights—and how that legacy impacts Black communities today. #treystablepodcast

Most baseball fans know the name Curt Flood for his incredible 12-season run in center field for the St. Louis Cardinals. But his greatest victory happened off the diamond. ⚾️⚖️ In 1969, after being traded against his will, Flood did the unthinkable: he challenged Major League Baseball's "reserve clause." He risked his career and his reputation to fight for the rights of every player who came after him. In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the life of the man who paved the way for modern free agency. It's a story of courage, sacrifice, and a legacy that changed sports forever.

Prosecutors, unfortunately, keep trying to remove Black jurors from criminal cases. It just happened in the trial of Karmelo Anthony. Let's talk about how we can change the system to eliminate this racism.

The British Royal Family profited immensely from the slave trade. How should it make amends? Let's talk about it.https://youtu.be/ePqdmbgQ4BI?s...

The Catholic Church enslaved her during the Colonial era. She refused to give up her fight for freedom. This is the story of Ann Joice. https://youtu.be/jHAauml9rV4?s...

Last week, Pope Leo issued an apology for the Catholic Church's role in the transatlantic slave trade. Let's talk about the history and what should come after the apology.

For more than a decade, the LAPD failed to stop a police officer who was a ticking time bomb. For two years, the department even paid him to stay home, fearing he was so racist he might harm innocent Black people. On the latest episode of Trey's Table, we examine how that scandal helped a murderer evade justice. #treystablepodcast #criminaljustice #truecrimepodcast

You've heard about the explosive new Supreme Court case on voting rights. Let's explore the story of some of the people involved in the case. #treystablepodcast #blackhistory #law #blackpodcasts

Marla Gibbs didn't just move from The Jeffersons to 227—she moved from actress to architect. Most people don't realize that Marla's deal for 227 was one of the most powerful contracts of its time. We're discussing: • How she protected the authenticity of her characters. • The specific moves she made to secure producer status. • Why her autobiography is a "must-read" for any aspiring creator. New episode is live! Tap the link in our bio to hear how Marla took the wheel.

Private corporations know everything about what we do, say, and consume. They are giving this information to the government. Let's talk about what this means for privacy, racial justice, and civil rights.https://www.supremecourt.gov/o...

Did you know that in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Italian immigrants were often legally and socially marginalized in ways that mirror the Black experience in America?

Tucker Carlson is now saying some of the same things about President Trump that VP Kamala Harris said in 2024. However, when you listen to all of his comments you will realize Tucker Carlson is still an awful man.

Trey's Table Episode 434: Is Byron Donald's Black Enough? Some Black Americans don't think that Bryon Donalds is black enough. They call themselves Foundational Black Americans. Let's talk about it.

Let's celebrate the life of Kyle Patrick Hearn.https://www.researchgate.net/p...

Who gets to stand before the highest court in the land? The Supreme Court of the United States decides cases that shape all of our lives… But the lawyers who argue those cases? They don't always reflect the diversity of the country. In this episode of Trey's Table, we explore: ⚖️ Who actually argues before the Court ⚖️ Why the pool is so small—and so exclusive ⚖️ And what it means when the voices shaping the law lack diversity From pioneers like Everett J. Waring and Thurgood Marshall… to the realities of today's Supreme Court bar— This is a conversation we need to have.

Let's talk about the African-American hero, who helped find homes for thousands of children who faced discrimination because of the color of their skin.https://youtu.be/rrikwVPVhl0?s...

In 1959 a group of Puerto Rican and African American women joined forces to fight for fair wages. Let's talk about it.

In 1894 the League of American Wheelman was the largest bicycling organization in America. It had over 100,000 members and significant political influence. The LAW's constitution limited membership to Whites only. It did so because it was concerned that the bicycle was being used as a vehicle to help white women meet and date black men. In this episode, we will discuss the history of racism and how it impacts the sport of bicycling today.https://youtu.be/96KDo0PgY60?s...https://youtu.be/Z2eBF5d2iII?s...

In 1896 seven Korean students found themselves in need of a safe place. They found that place at Howard University. This is their story.https://youtu.be/fNi1ZFsEoYw?s...https://youtu.be/OB6pFfeDO0c?s...

After the Korean War, thousands of children were born to Korean mothers and Black American soldiers. Many of them grew up facing deep discrimination. This week on Trey's Table, we tell their story.

Larry Bird never wanted to be the Great White Hope. #treystablepodcast

"Steep." It's more than just a title; it's a reflection on the climb, the heritage, and the intensity of a life lived at the highest level. Dr. Craig Yorke's insights on neurosurgery and the arts will change how you think about your own "steep" climbs. Check out the full conversation at the link in bio!

Can a pizza shop change the justice system?

Let's talk about drill music, a popular drill rapper, and how his music may be used against him in his upcoming trial for murder. #treystablepodcast

In 1896, Justice John Marshall Harlan proved what judicial courage looks like. While the Supreme Court upheld segregation in Plessy v. Ferguson, Harlan wrote a dissent that declared: “The Constitution is color-blind.” He stood alone. In this episode of Trey's Table, we examine: ⚖️ The legal reasoning behind Plessy ⚖️ Harlan's constitutional philosophy ⚖️ The long road to Brown v. Board ⚖️ What dissent really means in American law This one is for anyone who believes the law can evolve toward justice.