This week: From comedy to the world of dating apps—join your amazing host Marina Franklin and comedian Akeem Woods on 'Friends Like Us' as they discuss the ins and outs of Grindr and more! It's a fun one! Akeem Woods is the funny little brother you always (never) wanted — his comedy style will have you on the edge of your seat reeling from laughter…

On this Friends Like Us... Ever wondered about the impact of AI on media or the hidden history of our college institutions? Listen to my conversation with Kenice Mobley and Kimberly Clark, as we tackle topics and give our guests their flowers! Give it a listen and spread the word! Kimberly Clark - Originally from Syracuse, NY. She's been seen on Ne…

On this Friends Like Us, Marina Franklin talks with Hollie Harper and Von Decarlo about empowering young girls through stand-up comedy. They take a deep dive into how humor can be a tool for confidence and self-expression. Von Decarlo is a New York-bred stand-up comedian, producer, writer, and actress who has appeared in worldwide ad campaigns and …

On this Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin chats with talented comedians Chanel Ali and Brandon Collins! They talk about comedy, the Drunk Black History tour, and the significance of Juneteenth. Tune in for a dose of humor and education! Brandon Collins is a versatile screenwriter, comedian and podcaster who has performed at the SXSW and New Yor…

Ready to break through mental barriers? Tune into our latest episode with Courtney A. Seard as we dive into mindset shifts, empowerment, and beating the odds! Featuring funny friend Nonye Brown-West. Courtney A. Seard : With over 20 years of experience in the most innovative mind sciences and a firsthand story of resilience after a near-fatal accid…

This Friends Like Us, Host Marina Franklin and Vanessa Fraction talk with Damon Young, Author of his new book: That's How They Get You" . It sparks a thoughtful conversation on teeth, black comedy, and the power of humor. Pittsburgh writer DAMON YOUNG’s debut memoir, What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker: A Memoir in Essays (Ecco), won the Thurbe…

On Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin dives deep into critical discussions on black maternal health with the incredible Dr. Wylin D. Wilson and comedian Ashima Franklin. Empower yourself with knowledge, laughter, and inspiration! Wylin D. Wilson is Associate Professor of Theological Ethics at Duke Divinity School where she teaches Womanist Bioet…

Friends Like Us celebrates Malcolm X's 100th birthday! Join host Marina Franklin as she talks with Tamara Payne and Troy LaRaviere as they discuss the impact of his teachings and how they resonate today. Tune in and be inspired! Tamara Payne sheds light on her father Les Payne's groundbreaking Pulitzer Prize-winning work, "The Dead Are Arising," an…

This Friends Like Us, Marina Franklin and Hollie Harper chat with the incredible Sumer Strawbree, a 15-year-old CEO inspiring young girls with her empowering coloring books and confidence-building affirmations! Sumer Strawbree, is a 15 year old speaker, author and affirmations authority. She helps girls unleash the power of positive "I Am" affirmat…

Discover the magic of community-driven cat rescue in our latest Friends Like Us episode. Join host Marina Franklin, Becky Wisdom from Green Point Cats, and comedian Subhah Agarwal as they chat about cat colonies, TNR, and the urgency to help communities in the over populations of cats. Becky Wisdom is the founder of Greenpoint Cats, a leading Brook…

Dive into Friends Like Us as host Marina Franklin talks with veteran comedians Ralph Harris, Keith Robinson, and Charles Walden. They share stories, laughs, and insights on what keeps them thriving in the industry. Keith Robinson: Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Keith Robinson, is considered a comic’s comic. He has captivated audiences aroun…

Marina Franklin host comedy giants on Friends Like Us! Tune in as Ralph Harris, Charles Walden, and Keith Robinson share stories about their journey, friendship, and the comedic landscape today. It's a laughter-packed episode with comedy legends! Keith Robinson: Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Keith Robinson, is considered a comic’s comic. H…

Marina Franklin talks with guest Professor Marlene Daut and Nonye Brown-West. They dive into the incredible history of Haiti with Dr. Marlene Daut on the latest episode of Friends Like Us. Discover the power of education and representation in shaping our narratives. Nonye Brown-West is a New York-based Nigerian-American comedian and writer. She has…

Dive into an inspiring episode, as host Marina Franklin talks with Mayor Randall Woodfin and Roy Wood Jr. on Friends Like Us! From community empowerment to leadership and Randall Woodfin's new memoir, "Sons of Birmingham,". Hear how these sons of Birmingham are making waves. Randall Woodfin was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and after four years in A…

You don't have to be perfect to find true love! Join host Marina Franklin as she and funny friend Von Decarlo dives in to finding true love with dating coach Francesca Hogi in our latest episode. Learn how self-love and authenticity lead the way to meaningful connections. Francesca Hogi is a coach, speaker, and writer. She teaches people how to tru…

Marina Franklin talks with the first African American Rockette, Jennifer Jones and comedian Jenny Saldana. Jennifer Jones shares her journey from a child to the first African American Rockette. Discover her inspiring story in 'Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience.'" #RockettesAnniversary #DreamBig Meet Jennifer Jones, who has her new memo…

On this Friends Like Us for Women's Month: Marina Franklin talks with Calise Hawkins and Mia Jackson, breaking down the impact of boycotts, the necessity of taking breaks, and sharing laughs with incredible women. Mia Jackson is a bonafide Georgia peach (that's Georgian for “native”). In 2017, she was selected as a New Face by the Just for Laughs C…

Join Marina Franklin, Dr. Brittany Friedman, and Akeem Woods in an eye-opening discussion on Dr. Friedman's new book: "Carceral Apartheid. How Lies and White Supremacists Run Our Prisons." Learn about the systemic issues within America's prisons and how history repeats itself without intervention. Dr. Brittany Friedman is recognized as an innovativ…

From laughter to resilience: Joanna Briley and Nonye Brown-West join host Marina Franklin to highlight the Black Women In Comedy Laugh Fest's mission of community building. Joanna Briley. Brooklyn born, Connecticut raised. Hilarity ensued. Joanna’s worked for the MTA 34 years and it’s made her one of the friendliest Token Booth Clerks. With her lov…

In this episode, Marina Franklin hosts Shari Dunn, author of 'Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work,' and comedian Kenice Mobley. The conversation covers the backlash against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, competency checking, and the pervasive assumption of black intellectual inferiority. Shari Dunn is a …

Join Friends Like Us for a vibrant discussion with Lamar Woods & Charles McBee! We celebrate Black excellence, discuss mental health in hip hop, review the Black National Anthem and more. Lamar Woods Lamar grew up in Atlanta, Ga. where he got his BA in Religious Studies at Georgia State University. Once he graduated, he moved to Los Angeles and got…

Discover the connection between Afrofuturism and prophecy with our latest episode featuring Vanessa Fraction and Hollie Harper. Hosted by Marina Franklin, we explore Black History Month and its significance today. Vanessa Fraction is a talented and hilarious comedian, actress, and writer who has made her mark in various forms of entertainment. She …

Healing Your Financial Mindset: Financial expert Kara Stevens, founder of The Frugal Feminista, joins Marina Franklin and Leighann Lord to share invaluable insights on managing personal finances, healing your mindset, and building wealth. Kara talks about her own journey from financial dysfunction to becoming a money mentor, emphasizing the importa…

In this podcast episode, Marina Franklin hosts Nilanjana 'Buju' Dasgupta and Nonye Brown-West for a discussion around cultural and social change. Nilanjana discusses her new book, 'Change the Wallpaper,' which advocates for a science-driven approach to achieving social change by focusing on local, situational changes rather than solely relying on d…

This week on Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin is joined by comedians Zainab Johnson and Subhah Agarwal to discuss hope amid the LA wildfires and how you can help. In tough times, community matters Subhah Agarwal has brought an honesty to her comedy that will leave you saying "I didn't need to know that." Subhah has written for Netflix’s “Arsen…

This "Friends Like Us", host Marina Franklin chats with Brandon Collins and Hollie Harper about Brandon's new "Drunk Black History" tour, the legacy of Jimmy Carter, and how artistry meets activism. Hollie Harper is a comedy nerd from South Jersey. She is currently the creator and co-exec producer of Hella Late! with Hollie Harper on BRIC TV and a …

In this New Year’s episode, host Marina Franklin introduces new friend Bob Bordone and comedian Nonye Brown-West. The group dives deep into the complexities of having difficult political conversations, especially in the post-election and current societal climate. Bob Bordone, a Harvard Law School expert in negotiation and conflict resolution, discu…

This is our Favorite Episode for 2024! Friends Like Us with host Marina Franklin features guests Dr. Donna J Nickel and Nonye Brown-West. Dr. Donna J. Nickel, an academic from California, discussing her latest book on Claudia Hampton's contributions to affirmative action and black education. The discussion extends to contemporary issues, including …

In this engaging episode, host Marina Franklin is joined by comedians Calise Hawkins and Jackie Fabulous for a lively discussion. They share their experiences of performing stand-up comedy in front of diverse audiences, talk about the unique challenges and laughter involved, and delve into personal and societal topics such as menopause and its impa…

Serene Cotter, and Violet Gray Join host Marina Franklin in a thought-provoking episode. They delve into critical topics including post-election sentiments, the challenges of modern feminism, especially white feminism, and the intersectionality in feminist movements. Violet shares her experiences in comedy, the importance of wit in roast battles, a…

In this Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin welcomes Lonnie B. Supreme, a talented jazz musician and composer, and comedian Nonyé Brown-West. Lonnie shares his journey pursuing his doctorate in Miami, and discusses the significance of his family's historical legacy in jazz. He emphasizes the importance of education, resources, and perseverance in…

This Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin talk with Holly Harper and breathwork expert Jasmine Marie. Friends discuss the significance of mental health, particularly for Black women. They delve into Jasmine’s book, 'Black Girls Breathing,' which focuses on healing from trauma, combating chronic stress, and finding freedom. Jasmine shares her perso…

I noticed issues on Spotify so I am releasing this again. This Friends Like Us, Marina welcomes Vanessa Fraction and Nonye Brown-West. We discuss Vanessa's new podcast 'Action Fraction on Air,' which will focus on having fun with friends and exploring diverse topics. The conversation shifts to the impact of social and political issues on comedy, th…

In this lively episode of Friends Like Us, Marina talks with comedian Von Decarlo and Kenice Mobley. They discuss various topics, including experiences at the Edinburgh Festival, the importance of promoting health and exercise, and the humorous yet practical use of Depends. The conversation shifts to the political landscape, examining Kamala Harris…

New Friends Like Us episode hosted by Marina Franklin features Kaneez Surka and Subhah Agarwal. Laugh out loud while they tackle today's hottest topics. With topics ranging from Kamala Harris to Melania Trump, this episode is loaded with laughs and thought-provoking discussions. Subhah Agarwal has brought an honesty to her comedy that will leave yo…

This 'Friends Like Us' hosted by Marina Franklin features comedians Akeem Woods and Mia Jackson. It's a lively discussion that covers a range of topics including societal issues such as: a Detroit judge handcuffing a teenager on a field trip, North Carolina's Mark Robinson, New York City's Mayor Eric Adams, and the scandal of P. Diddy. Mia Jackson …

This Friends Like Us features Jenny Saldaña and Abbi Crutchfield. The guests discuss donuts and weekend activities as well as more serious topics like breast cancer awareness. Jenny talks about her personal battle with breast cancer, including issues of systemic racism and cultural challenges faced by women of color in healthcare. Jenny's upcoming …

This Friends Like Us with host Marina Franklin features guests Dr. Donna J Nickel and Nonye Brown-West. Dr. Donna J. Nickel, an academic from California, discussing her latest book on Claudia Hampton's contributions to affirmative action and black education. The discussion extends to contemporary issues, including the repercussions of ending affirm…

This Friends Like Us with host Marina Franklin welcomes Keith Price, a key figure in the comedy world known for supporting many comedians. The conversation touches on the importance of such influences and shifts to praise for Vanessa Fraction's comedic talent. Topics of discussion include Glenn Close's acclaimed role in a recent movie, the societal…

Host Marina Franklin welcomes guests Zainab Johnson and Daisy Auger-Domínguez . Daisy shares her experiences and insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work, including the challenges and successes she faced in corporate roles, The group also reflects on the Democratic National Convention and its inspirational messaging, particularly emp…

We love this episode so much we are airing it twice! Tamara Payne, Nonye Brown-West and Troy Laraviere visit Friends Like Us and discuss pulitzer prize winner's Les Payne's and Tamara's book : The Dead Are Arising: The Life Of Malcom X and more with host Marina Franklin. Tamara Payne -Tamara Payne is co-author of The Dead Are Arising: The Life of M…

Hollie Harper and Nonye Brown-West visit friends and discuss cultural vultures to Kamala Harris, we're breaking down some heavy topics on this episode of Friends Like Us. Catch the insightful conversation and let us know your thoughts! Hollie Harper is a comedy nerd from South Jersey. She is currently the creator and co-exec producer of Hella Late!…

Dr. Lynetter Mawhinney and Michele Thompkins visit friends and break down the importance of Black teachers, biracial identification, how policy changes affect our youth. Stay informed and engaged on what the election means for education. Don’t miss this crucial conversation. Lynnette Mawhinney is an award-winning writer, creator, and long-time educ…

We had so much fun with SublimeLuv and Kaneez Surka that we decided to air it twice! SublimeLuv and Kaneez Surka visit friends and discuss spoken word, poetry, mental health wellness, christians stepping away from gender roles and more with host Marina Franklin. SublimeLuv (aka Sublime) is a powerful spoken word and teaching artist, author, curator…

We are re-airing an importany episode on preparedness for taking care of elders. Ashima Franklin and Leighann Lord visit friends and discuss why parents can not be friends with their kids, the tiktoker who went viral for living in a storage unit, and giving yourself and elder parents grace. Ashima Franklin Originally from Alabama, Ashima Franklin h…

We are re-airing a really funny episode with two of my favorite friends/comedians who currently have hilarious Comedy Specials on Netflix right now! Check them out! Rachel Feinstein and Keith Robinson share insights into their creative processes, the importance of resilience, and why they continue to push their boundaries. The episode is filled wit…

It's an Election year and so we are re-airing this important episode. Subhah Agarwal and Sharon Lavigne visit friends and discuss Sharon Lavigne's battle for clean air and justice, taking on the big industries that have created Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley” -- nicknamed for the above-average rates of cancer within the 85-mile stretch of communities wi…

Hollie Harper and host Marina Franklin disuss the debates, ageism in politics, and the upcoming election. Don’t miss this insightful chat! Hollie Harper is a comedy nerd from South Jersey. She is currently the creator and co-exec producer of Hella Late! with Hollie Harper on BRIC TV and a co-host of the nationally trending Twitter Storytelling Chat…

Jourdain Fisher and Charles Mcbee visit friends and discuss comedy, social media, the tend commandments, and surviving breakups. Catch the laughs and insights now with host Marina Franklin. Jourdain Fisher has got it all. He is a hilarious comedian, writer, and actor. He has performed on COMEDY CENTRAL and in 2018 he made his late night TV debut on…

Tamara Payne, Nonye Brown-West and Troy Laraviere visit Friends Like Us and discuss pulitzer prize winner's Les Payne's and Tamara's book : The Dead Are Arising: The Life Of Malcom X and more with host Marina Franklin. Tamara Payne -Tamara Payne is co-author of The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X written with her father, Pulitzer Prize-winn…