Claim OwnershipNaked Sports with Cari Champion
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NAKED SPORTS lives at the intersection of sports, politics, and culture. It is a niche groundbreaking interview-based show that dives deep into the lives of the game-changers who have helped shape our world. We explore how sports are interwoven not only into their personal lives; but the role they play in the global experience. NAKED SPORTS is hosted by Cari Champion, a trailblazing broadcast journalist and television personality renowned for her pioneering contributions to sports media for women.
In each episode, this distinguished host sits down with, a diverse array of athletes, politicians, and cultural innovators who have left an indelible mark on their fields. Through intimate, unfiltered conversations, the show reveals the raw and vulnerable sides of their journeys—peeling back the layers to explore the defining moments, personal struggles, and transformative experiences that live at the intersection of sports, culture, and politics.
These conversations are thematically linked to live at the intersection and on this new season of NAKED SPORTS, we begin with a six-part docu-series, The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese, in which Cari questions how this “rivalry” started. Does the necessity for success depend on a foil? In a time of divisiveness, are sports—more specifically the WNBA—a reflection of our country? Or will the greatness of two supernovas unite this country and heal race relations?
NAKED SPORTS guests will span varied backgrounds, providing diverse perspectives as we examine how sports play a crucial role in nearly every aspect of life.
Connect: @CARICHAMPION
228 Episodes
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In this episode of Naked, Cari discusses the lack of emotional songs in mainstream music and reminisces about artists like Marvin Gaye and Luther Vandross. The guest, Ruben Studdard, winner of Season Two of American Idol and Platinum recording artist, shares how the show changed the landscape of reality competition shows. We also learn more about his life in Birmingham, the inspiration for his new album, and the importance of authenticity in R&B. Connect: @CariChampion @RealRubenStuddard Learn More: RubenStuddard.com Listen: The Way I Remember ItSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the final episode of Naked Sports Season 4, you take a moment to look back and breathe it all in. Cari reflects on the journey — how the show evolved with the culture and the world’s events. Back when it was called Naked, it was all about the intimate, vulnerable stories from our guests. Now, it’s a space where bold voices meet big topics. Case in point? Today’s timely conversation on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl forthcoming appearance, which exemplifies how sports doesn’t just live on the field. It lives in the headlines, the halftime shows, the hidden political events, and/or in case it becomes a political event. Naked, now "Naked Sports" has grown into something fearless: a platform where sports, politics, and culture collide in real-time. We shift from the Super Bowl to the topic that led the season — women’s sports. Cari shines a light on the Las Vegas Aces, the tireless advocacy of WNBA players, and the battles still being fought against pay disparities, visibility gaps, and the push for real equity in a league full of stars. Women’s sports are having a moment — and we’re not just watching it.We’re part of it, and thank you all for being a part of NAKED SPORTS! Special thanks to the Naked Sports team, our listeners, and everyone who’s been part of this evolution. This may be the end of a season, but it’s the beginning of something bigger. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Isabelle 'Izzy' Harrison Talks Career, WNBA Challenges, and Powerful Journeys On this episode of Naked Sports, Cari sits down with one of the real ones — Isabelle Harrison of the New York Liberty. Izzy opens up about the journey that shaped her; from playing under the legendary Pat Summitt at Tennessee, to making waves in the W with talent, heart, and a whole lot of voice. She gets real about her relationship with Tasha Cloud (yes, that Tasha), and shares what it means to show up authentically on and off the court. We talk CBA negotiations, league politics, officiating, and why players need more than just a seat at the table. They need a say. But Izzy’s story goes deeper. She gives us a glimpse into what it was like growing up in a big family of 12, and her powerful work raising awareness for Lupus, a cause close to her heart. This one’s about more than sports. It’s about the humanity of athletes, the hustle it takes to thrive, and the courage to use your platform for purpose. Connect @CariChampion @OMG_ItsIzzyB Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this solo edition of Naked Sports, Cari holds space for one of the most complicated conversations of our time: free speech. Through honest reflections and sound bites that hit close to home, Cari asks the questions that so many are afraid to say out loud: Is our free speech being threatened? Who decides what’s protected and what’s punished? Cari unpacks how this plays out differently depending on who you are, especially for marginalized communities who’ve never had the full luxury of “free” speech to begin with. Calling out the contradictions, especially when voices like Charlie Kirk and Laura Loomer use outrage as a platform. What does that say about where we are politically, culturally, and morally? There’s also a moment commenting on Vice President Kamala Harris’s new book, and what it means to finally hear things said out loud that many of us already knew deep down. And another big story this week, Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late night, which truly highlights the permeating question: is our freedom of speech under attack? Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari begins by expressing sadness over current world events, focusing on the political violence underscored by the murder of conservative podcaster Charlie Kirk. She highlights the intense division and mob mentality prevalent in society today, urging listeners to find the middle ground. The episode then shifts focus to an interview with Tyriq Withers, the star of the upcoming Jordan Peele sports horror film 'Him.' Withers discusses his role, his journey as an actor and athlete, and the film's central themes of hero worship and the human experience of athletes. The conversation touches on Withers' background, the authenticity he brings to his role, and his interactions with co-star Marlon Wayans. We wrap up with Withers sharing his GOAT picks in both football and basketball. Then Cari reflects on finding hope and dreaming big, even in dark times, emphasizing the importance of escape through family, friends, and entertainment. "HIM" released in theaters exclusively on Friday, September 19, 2025 Watch the trailer: HIM | Official Trailer Connect: @CariChampion @TyriqWithers Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion's YouTube ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this emotionally rich episode of Naked Sports, Cari opens up about loss: the recent passing of your grandmother and how that grief became both a wound and a window. Grief, being the ultimate proof of love, was evident in and how the community has shown up with support, reminding Cari of what really matters. Cari reflects briefly on how that moment shifted her perspective, re-centered her priorities, and made space for meaningful conversations, like the one that follows with today’s guest, the brilliant Selwyn Seyfu Hinds. Selwyn, a screenwriter, and producer who went from hip-hop journalism as The Source’sformer Editor-in-Chief to Hollywood creative, joins Naked Sports for a wide-ranging conversation. Together, we explore his new Hulu series, Washington Black, a powerful story rooted in human resilience and the refusal to be defined by trauma. Cari and Selwyn unpack the cultural legacy of ’90s hip-hop, the evolution of storytelling, and the role of Black creatives in shaping narratives that matter. The conversation touches on identity, legacy, and the fight to remain authentic in industries that often want to shape you. Throughout, there’s a thread of truth: that community, creativity, and perseverance are how we carry forward — in grief, in art, and in life. Watch: George Washington Black on Hulu Connect: @CariChampion @SelwynHinds Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari ChampionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this deeply personal episode of Naked Sports, Cari starts by honoring her grandmother, the woman whose love shaped your life in ways words can barely hold. Her passing is fresh, and the grief? It’s heavy. This episode is for her. For you. For anyone who’s carried that weight and still found the courage to speak. Cari reflects on how this podcast has become a place where she can step away from the polished TV persona and speak honestly, with vulnerability and truth. And that’s exactly what she does in today’s episode. With the grace of the community, a new connection was formed during Cari’s recent visit to the vineyard this summer. Dr. Akua Boateng is a licensed psychotherapist and emotional wellness coach who helps Cari to unpack the complexities of grief, especially for high-functioning individuals. She shares how grief looks different for everyone and reminds us that ambition doesn’t cancel out the need for emotional care. Together, they touch on how collective traumas like COVID-19 reshaped us, how athletes and high achievers carry hidden weight, and why healing in community is everything. Dr. Boateng’s words land like balm: “Grief is the body and mind’s way of responding to the absence of love.”“We are hurt in relationship, and we heal in relationship.” The conversation is layered, healing, and exactly the kind of dialogue that helps move through pain with purpose. Connect: @CariChampion @DrAkuaBoateng Learn More: DrAkuaBoateng.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, we’re back on the mic! Welcoming listeners in and setting the tone with a quick reflection on those recent re-aired episodes, including the one honoring Malcolm Jamal Warner and another spotlighting the rise of the new pro women’s volleyball league. Cari shares a bit about her time in Martha’s Vineyard, not just the beauty of the trip, but the meaning behind that place. The history. The energy. The community. All of it left Cari feeling recharged and ready to return for this important interview. The spotlight shifts to your incredible guest — Erin Haynes, the newly elected president of the NABJ. Cari and Errin discuss what it means to be a Black journalist right now. We call it what it is: wartime journalism. Errin doesn’t hold back on the challenges facing the industry, from hiring inequities to the rise of disinformation, and why advocacy, community, and truth-telling matter more than ever. Cari and Erin get real about the stakes for journalism, for democracy, and for Black voices in media. She leaves listeners with a call to action: stand with NABJ, support the storytellers, and recognize the urgency of this moment. Connect @CariChampion @EMarvelous Learn More: National Association for Black Journalism Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Black Effect Presents... Naked Sports with Cari Champion! In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari gets into it, and I mean really gets into it, around the noise surrounding Caitlin Clark and the WNBA. Let’s be clear: it’s not jealousy. It’s biased. Gender bias, media bias, and the way we constantly move the goalposts when it comes to women in sports, especially Black women. Before we get into the episode, Cari takes the time to call out these biases. Then we switch gears and sit down with the brilliant Garrison Hayes - digital creator, historian, and storyteller who’s out here unearthing the Black history most folks never learned. They talk about the complicated legacy of Black Republicans, the narratives that get pushed (and the ones that don’t), and how identity, history, and power all show up in the public conversation. We close out with a little WNBA love from the upcoming All-Star festivities and a shoutout for Swin Cash and her incredible Women in Sports conference. This one’s about telling the truth, rewriting the narrative, and honoring the stories that matter on and off the court. Connect @CariChampion @GarrisonH Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this powerful and unfiltered episode, we take a hard look at the rise, reign, and reckoning of Sean “Diddy” Combs. From industry icon to tabloid headline, we unpack it all; the legacy, the lifestyle, and the legal heat he’s facing right now, including the fast-approaching sentencing on October 3rd. Cari even shares some of her personal experiences that pull back the curtain on Diddy the man, not just the mogul, and the challenge of reconciling the artist with the allegations. Mona Kosar Abdi, senior correspondent for Extra TV, joins us to help break down the legal details of the trial, the headlines you’ve heard (and the ones you haven’t), and the public’s complicated response; especially with stories like the so-called “freak offs” drawing so much attention. Now the verdict has been announced, the bigger question remains: “When someone this powerful falls, can they ever really rise again? And should they?” Connect @CariChampion @mokoab Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Naked Sports, Cari Champion opens up about finding her tribe, cutting off toxic relationships (yes, we’re talking frenemies), and creating a sense of peace in a world that feels more divided than ever. Then it’s game time: we dive into the headlines shaking up the WNBA. From record-breaking expansion to fiery rivalries over player rankings—this week on Naked Sports, Cari Champion digs into the explosive growth of the WNBA, the drama brewing around Caitlin Clark’s All‑Star selection, and whether the league’s meteoric rise comes at a cost. Why are some folks upset that Caitlin Clark is an All-Star captain in just her second year? What's really behind the WNBA expansion news—and why are only male owners getting the big buy-in? Cari breaks it all down with honesty and edge, from fan vote drama to long-overdue investment in women’s sports. Mark your calendar: WNBA All-Star Weekend is July 18–20 in Indiana. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Cari chops it up with a true legend — Big Daddy Kane. We discuss the legacy of Rock the Bells, the roots of hip-hop, and why storytelling remains at the heart of the game. Kane takes us back to his battle rap days and walks us through his rise, from hungry lyricist to certified pioneer. We delve into the creation of classics like "Smooth Operator," what it means to perform with purpose, and how his style continues to be reflected in today’s artists. We also break down the many layers of hip-hop, conscious rap, mainstream hits, battle bars, and why it all matters. Kane drops gems on where the culture’s been, where it’s headed, and how artists can protect their legacy by knowing their worth and their business. This one’s for the hip-hop heads, the artists, and anybody who still believes in the power of authenticity in music. Connect @CariChampion @OfficialBigDaddyKane Learn More: RockTheBells.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Cari Champion gets real about the hot-button topic of transgender athletes in sports. From the emotional stories of parents to the big questions around fairness and inclusion, Cari breaks down the conversation with honesty and heart. She talks about how little research is actually out there, the real-life impact on families, and why we need more compassion and open-mindedness in this debate. If you’re curious about where sports, identity, and society intersect—this episode’s for you. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this solo episode, Cari addresses what’s happening right now, starting with the disturbing military presence in Los Angeles during protests against ICE. She discusses the dangers of government overreach and why we all need to stay aware, because these issues don’t just affect the marginalized; they impact everyone. Then we pivot to the court. and not the kind with judges. Cari highlights the rise of some of the NBA’s brightest new stars and what their moment means for the culture at large. It’s not just about the game, it’s about what they represent. Lastly, she takes a moment to honor the one and only Ananda Lewis — a woman who shaped media, shifted narratives, and made space for so many of us to be seen and heard—her powerful and relevant legacy. This one’s about truth, talent, and giving flowers while we still can. Connect @CariChampion Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the podcast we are joined by legendary producer Jesse Collins! In this episode, Jesse keeps it real about his journey from radio to running major live events like the BET Awards and the Super Bowl halftime show. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from Ruthless Radio, reflects on the cultural impact of BET’s Teen Summit, and talks about the power of representation in media. With plenty of insights on staying creative, serving your audience, and building a lasting career in Hollywood, this convo is packed with gems—plus a sneak peek at what’s coming up at the next BET Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari Champion chats with Jason Prenzo for a real, unfiltered talk about mental health—the highs, the lows. They get into the tough stuff: childhood trauma, the stigma that still surrounds mental health (especially for men), and why it’s so hard for some people to open up. Jason opens up about his personal journey, sharing what it's really like to struggle with anxiety and the role self-awareness plays in healing. They talk about therapy, coping strategies, the pros and cons of medication and psychedelics, and how important it is to find a support system that actually gets it. From unpacking identity struggles to tackling toxic masculinity and the pressure to “keep it together,” this episode is all about keeping the conversation around mental health honest, compassionate, and judgment-free. If you're looking for a deep, powerful, and relatable mental health podcast, you won’t want to miss this one. Connect @CariChampion @JasonPrinzo Learn More: jasonprinzo.com/ Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, host Cari Champion sits down with WNBA icon Angel McCoughtry to talk about life after the league, her journey into filmmaking and music, and her fight to elevate women’s basketball. From being the #1 overall draft pick to creating space for new generations of athletes, Angel shares raw insights on perseverance, purpose, and the power of reinvention. Connect @CariChampion @McCoughtry Learn More: angelmccoughtry.com/ Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Devi Brown — a true force in the wellness space — joins Naked Sports to talk about what it means to take care of yourself in a world that never seems to slow down. We get into her journey, how she found her way to healing, what it means to be a calming presence in chaotic times, and how every chapter of life, even the messy ones, shapes us into who we’re becoming. Focusing on self-care, growth, and showing yourself grace — because in today’s world of go-go-go, being still might be the most powerful move you can make. We also learn about Devi’s new book, Living Wisdom, and her reasoning and process for bringing it to life. Connect @CariChampion @DeviBrown Learn More: DeviBrown.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Darren Waller a former NFL athlete, shares his journey of self-discovery, addiction, and recovery with us in this episode. He discusses the duality of his identity and some of the challenges he faced while navigating life as a professional athlete. Waller's candid reflections on his struggles with addiction and the path to recovery highlight the importance of self-acceptance and finding purpose beyond sports. Waller shares his vulnerable experience of an overdose, the subsequent realization of his addiction, the transformative power of music, and his commitment to finding a deeper purpose in his life moving forward. Listen to the NEW EP: Internal Warfare: This Too Shall Pass Connect: @CariChampion @RakkWall Learn More: DarrenWaller.Org Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, Cari sits down with the one and only Malik Yoba. They talk about where they’ve been, where they’re going, and what it really takes to move with kindness in industries that don’t always reward it. Malik opens up about his journey, from the spotlight to behind the scenes, and we reflect on the power of cultural influence, the pressure of public perception, and the responsibility that comes with using your voice for something bigger. Cari and Malik also get into the myths around celebrity, ambition, and how staying grounded is its own kind of success. Shifting gears into identity in the digital age, how the words we use and the way we’re seen shape so much of our reality. Vulnerability, intention, humanity. It all matters. And just when you think we’ve covered it all, Malik expounds on his Flipping the Hood initiative — a powerful push to empower communities through real estate and financial literacy. Connect @CariChampion @MalikYoba Learn More: Yoba Development Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This is one of the greatest conversations I've heard on this 'tish going on in our country. Thank you. Two phenomenal women that station lost. I ckufin' love you both so much. I wish white folks(which I am) could receive this properly. Ignorance is bigotry on this. Thank you awesome ladies!!! listened twice and again tomorrow and telling folks to listen.