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Larry Wilmore: Black on the Air
Larry Wilmore: Black on the AirSubscribed: 18,130Played: 236,874
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Emmy Award—winning producer, actor, and comedian Larry Wilmore is back on the air, hosting a podcast where he weighs in on the issues of the week and interviews guests in the worlds of politics, entertainment, culture, sports, and beyond.
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1This week, Larry is joined by investigative journalist, author, and podcast host Tara Palmeri to sift through the complexities of the Epstein files and his survivors—just days after several of his accusers traveled to Capitol Hill to demand accountability (1:26). They explore the confusion surrounding the case, the role of money, and how Epstein seemed untouchable in a scandal rooted in power and class (8:05). They also consider what the files may actually contain (15:22) and the effect on survivors who must watch as their accused abusers are publicly celebrated.
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Tara PalmeriProducers: Devon Renaldo and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by Tony Award–nominated actor, Grammy- and Emmy-winning songwriter, and composer Christopher Jackson. Jackson reflects on the 10-year anniversary of ‘Hamilton,’ how the show came to life, and his experience originating the role of George Washington (2:20). He discusses his upcoming musical, 'The Crossover'; his process of writing for the show; and how raising a child with autism has shaped both his parenthood and his artistry (44:40). He also talks about his return to Broadway in Alicia Keys’s new musical, ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ (57:00), along with much more.
Host: Larry WimoreGuest: Christopher JacksonProducers: Devon Renaldo and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by Emmy Award-winning producer Wendy Lobel to discuss her directorial debut film ‘Anxiety Club’, currently streaming on Jolt.film. They begin their conversation by talking about why Wendy wanted to make the documentary and exploring the ways that the standup comedians featured in the film use their craft as built-in therapy. This leads to Wendy and Larry sharing personal and professional anecdotes about therapy and anxiety, while also shining a light on where medication intersects with the overall issue (9:05). Next, Wendy tells us about her process for directing ‘Anxiety Club’ and the biggest surprises that occurred to her when making the project (23:22). After the break, they talk about subject authenticity when making a documentary and the obstacles that present themselves when trying to capture the deep areas of people’s personal lives (33:23). They end the pod by highlighting Marc Maron’s significance in regards to the film and breaking down some of the important things that should be known about combating anxiety (41:20).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Wendy LobelProducers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry is joined by New York Times journalist and author Jonathan Mahler to discuss his newest book, ‘The Gods of New York: Egotists, Idealists, Opportunists, and the Birth of the Modern City: 1986-1990,’ publishing on August 12. They begin their conversation by detailing why Jonathan decided to write the book and shining a light on the rich history of New York City that precedes the period it covers. Here, they focus on the infamous Howard Beach attack and the police response that led to the rise of Al Sharpton and a new age of public protesting (18:46). After the break, Larry and Jonathan take a look at the Wall Street crash of 1987-88 and break down how the AIDS epidemic affected both the gay and art communities in New York at that time (31:52). They end the pod by talking about Rudy Giuliani’s war against the mob, how the tabloids created Donald Trump, and filmmaker Spike Lee’s love letter to the city, ‘Do the Right Thing’ (38:43).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Jonathan MahlerProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by journalist Maya Lau to discuss her latest podcast, Easy Money: The Charles Ponzi Story, currently streaming on Apple Podcasts. They begin their conversation by describing the story and subsequent legacy of Charles Ponzi, an Italian immigrant who, in 1920, defrauded his "investors" of the modern equivalent of a quarter of a billion dollars and unwittingly lent his name to one of the most infamous financial scams in history. They then shine a light on the cast of Maya’s narrative-form podcast and break down the scheme that made Ponzi infamous (11:43). This leads to a conversation about Bernie Madoff and other modern grifters and how they're able to succeed using Ponzi's diagram (25:24). After the break, Larry and Maya talk about why money is valuable and society’s general misunderstanding of how currency works (31:06). Larry then shares the life lessons he acquired as a door-to-door salesman, and Maya ends the pod with tips on how to avoid scams (38:22).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Maya LauProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by comedian Nate Jackson to talk about his new Netflix special ‘Nate Jackson: Super Funny’. They begin their conversation by examining the different ways that comedians develop relationships with an audience and sharing how they each mentally process jokes while they're performing. Nate then details how he became a comedian and the journey he took to find his unique creative voice (22:41). This leads to a conversation about the importance of owning your own space as a black comedian and the different occupational lessons he learned as one of the few African-American comedy club owners in the U.S. (29:58) After the break, Larry and Nate dive into how social media has changed the way comedy is monetized and discuss the sacrifices necessary to climb the ladder in the industry (40:31). Nate ends the pod by shining a light on his role in the upcoming “The Office” spinoff and sharing advice to aspiring stand-up comedians (57:07).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Nate JacksonProducers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry is joined by reporter and journalist Elizabeth Wagmeister to talk about her experiences covering the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs federal criminal case for CNN. They begin their conversation by shining a light on the atmosphere both inside and outside the courtroom, and detailing the individual charges being brought against Combs. They then examine the legal definition of sex trafficking and break down how the prosecution's underestimation of the public perception of this case may have blocked their hopes of a stronger verdict (22:48). After the break, Larry and Elizabeth discuss the effectiveness of Cassie’s testimony and it’s possible contribution to the ‘Me Too’ movement’s ultimate goals (30:07). They end the pod by speculating on how this scandal and trial will affect Diddy’s career and brand moving forward (44:10).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Elizabeth WagmeisterProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by journalist Alex Thompson from Axios to discuss the new book he coauthored with CNN’s Jake Tapper, ‘Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, It’s Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again.’ They begin their conversation by analyzing the personal history between Joe Biden and Barack Obama and breaking down how the elements of the book came together. This leads to an examination of the mainstream media's coverage of the public incidents that seemingly showcased Biden’s mental decline and the monumental effect his infamous debate with Donald Trump had on the American political landscape (18:39). After the break, Larry and Alex talk about the role family members like Jill and Hunter played in the cover-up and examine the differences in how Trump's current term is reported on versus his previous administration (25:55). They end the pod by discussing the political implications of Tucker Carlson’s viral takedown of Ted Cruz and whether or not the U.S. is heading into a war with Iran (47:33).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Alex ThompsonProducers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry is joined by author, television host, and political commentator Joy Reid to discuss her new podcast, The Joy Reid Show. They begin their conversation by talking about why Joy left MSNBC and examining the state of cable news in modern culture. This leads to an analysis of the different ideological splits within the Republican Party and the current status of the U.S. on the global stage (10:09). After the break, Larry and Joy discuss why the Democrats are struggling so hard to get their messaging through to voters and the controversial revelations surrounding Joe Biden’s last days in office (29:23). Joy ends the pod by sharing her thoughts on how American politics can move forward and breaking down the focus of her new podcast (43:01).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Joy ReidProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by writer and media executive Mark Whitaker to discuss his newest book ‘The Afterlife of Malcolm X: An Outcast Turned Icon’s Enduring Impact on America’. They begin their conversation by talking about what inspired Mark to write the book and detailing Malcolm X’s Shakespearean life journey from harrowing childhood to celebrated civil rights icon. This leads to a conversation about why both progressives and the modern black conservative movement have championed Malcolm’s teachings, and a breakdown of X’s relationship with Muhammad Ali (14:47). After the break, Larry and Mark discuss how Alex Haley’s posthumous autobiography of Malcolm X came together and examine the role its played in preserving Malcolm's historical significance (32:06). Finally, they end the pod by taking a hard look at the events surrounding Malcolm X’s assassination and shining a light on the strength of his cultural legacy against Martin Luther King's (45:02).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Mark WhitakerProducers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry starts off a special listener mailbag episode by sharing some of his biggest concerns with Donald Trump’s second term so far and his administration’s attack on government agencies and the Constitution. Next, he talks about the brand-new Pope Leo XIV and the role of religion in modern society (22:23). After the break, Larry discusses the future of his L.A. Lakers and breaks down the fundamental changes Hollywood filmmakers are feeling in today's political climate (35:38). He ends the pod by answering questions sent in from aspiring TV writers and reflecting on some of the experiences that shaped his path as he was coming up through the industry (40:52).
Host: Larry WilmoreProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by professor of law at the University of Michigan Law School and co-host of the podcast ‘Strict Scrutiny’, Leah Litman, to discuss her forthcoming book ‘Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes’, publishing on May 13th. They begin their conversation by talking about how the politicization of modern Supreme Court operations inspired her book, and shining a light on the history of the conservative right’s use of Roe v. Wade as a stepping stone to further their patriarchal influence on the U.S’s civil rights policies. This leads to a discussion about about voters who agree with this antiquated agenda and the individual Supreme Court justices who are motivated to implement it (24:24). After the break, Larry and Leah take a look at LGBTQ-rights issues in relation to the Supreme Court and how the current administration is using grievance policies to dismantle the 14th Amendment (33:18). They end the pod by talking about the ultimate governmental goals of the MAGA movement, and how Democrats can fight against those initiatives going forward (50:43).
Host: Larry WilmoreGuest: Leah LitmanProducers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by billionaire entrepreneur and ‘Shark Tank’ costar Daniel Lubetzky, and they begin their conversation by analyzing the importance of independent thought in today’s political climate. They then focus on the objectives of the Builders Movement and Daniel's efforts to curb political extremism and heal divisions within the business community (9:17). After the break, Daniel shares how the story of his father surviving the Holocaust has inspired his unifying world view and discusses the damaging effects antisemitism has had historically on different societies around the world (25:46). Daniel and Larry end the pod by shining a light on ‘Shark Tank,’ relaying advice for young entrepreneurs, and breaking down the success of Kind LLC (52:01).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Daniel Lubetzky
Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by political journalist Tara Palmeri, writer of ‘The Red Letter’ Substack and host of The Ringer podcast ‘Somebody’s Gotta Win’, to discuss all of the latest buzz shaking up Washington D.C. They begin their conversation by analyzing the possible political repercussions of Trump’s new tariffs. This leads into a talk about the viability of a third Trump term and a detailing of the apparent unseriousness of the president’s current cabinet officials (13:13). After the break, Larry and Tara turn their eyes left toward new reporting on the covering up of Joe Biden’s mental state during the final stretch of his presidency, and the coordinated efforts to keep Biden from debating and ultimately running for a second term (24:54). They end the pod by shining a light on ways Kamala Harris’s team failed her during the 2024 campaign, and speculating on the length of Elon Musk’s tenure within the White House orbit (31:31).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Tara Palmeri
Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by Axios Senior Political Reporter Alex Isenstadt to talk about his new book ‘Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump’s Return to Power’. They begin their conversation by discussing Alex’s approach to writing the book and the environment surrounding Trump when he decided to run for president a second time. They then analyze the personality differences between Trump’s first and second administration, particularly the bevy of influential allies currently in his cabinet, like White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles (10:25). This leads to an examination of Trump as an indomitable political athlete, whose mystique has kept a solid base of followers even through his most politically devastating moments (15:40). After the break, Larry and Alex shine a light on Trump’s mercurial relationship with Fox News, Rupert Murdoch, and Tucker Carlson, while highlighting the behind-the-scenes machinations that led to JD Vance’s ascendancy to vice president (28:13). Finally, Larry and Alex analyze the viability of Elon Musk’s partnership with Team Trump and talk about the future of both the Democratic and Republican Parties (45:36).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Alex Isenstadt
Producers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry is joined by actress Krys Marshall to talk about the Season 2 release of her Hulu show ‘Paradise’. They begin their conversation by examining Marshall’s upbringing and the many factors that inspired her to become an actor. This leads to a conversation about the mental, interpersonal, and familial hurdles Krys overcame to reach her personal goals within the industry (9:03). Next, Krys details the synopsis of ‘Paradise’ and describes how the cast, crew, and writers created an ideal and enriching acting environment (22:47). After the break, they shine a light on the importance of representation in modern television and how Marshall’s Apple TV show ‘For All Mankind’ has provided a safe space for Black nerds (39:28). Larry and Krys end the pod by discussing the projects they hope to work on in the future and sharing stories of manifesting their own success (54:54).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Krys Marshall
Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by filmmakers George and Teddy Kunhardt to discuss their newest documentary ‘Becoming Katharine Graham’, currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. They begin their conversation by talking about what inspired them to start the project and shining a light on the male-dominated world Katharine lived in when she was running the Washington Post. They then debate the accuracy of famous cinematic portrayals of Graham and take a hard look at her relationship to the feminist movement in the late '60s and early '70s (28:49). After the break, George, Teddy, and Larry break down how Graham’s famous family is intrinsic to her legacy and share the biggest lessons they learned from making the film (37:57). They end the pod by examining the state of print media in society today and the factors that motivate the Kunhardts to create their patented brand of documentaries (45:54).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guests: George Kunhardt and Teddy Kunhardt
Producers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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Larry is joined by writer and cultural critic Thomas Chatterton Williams to discuss his latest essay for The Atlantic, "How the Woke Right Replaced the Woke Left". They begin by shining a light on the political left’s weak hold on the cultural landscape, and breaking down the definition, history, and downfall of "woke" ideology. Next, they take a look at the rise of right-wing counterculture and its strength within the government and popular media (13:13). After the break, Larry and Thomas examine the growing acceptance of racist rhetoric both domestically and abroad before talking about the serious regime changes they are seeing within the current Donald Trump administration (36:09). They end the pod by debating the political allure of Trump and the next moves for the Democratic Party (48:37).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Thomas Chatterton Williams
Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by actor and comedian Roy Wood Jr. and they begin their conversation by acknowledging Black History Month. Roy then breaks down his new CNN show ‘Have I Got News for You’ and opines on whether or not comedic "bubbles" will last under the new Trump administration (5:41). They then pivot to his recently released stand-up special on Hulu, ‘Lonely Flowers’, and examine the different ways some of their favorite comedians navigate performing darker or more emotional comedic material (20:51). Roy ends the pod sharing his love for Alabama and shining a light on the importance of community (52:37).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Roy Wood Jr.
Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante
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Larry is joined by journalist and MSNBC political analyst Juanita Tolliver to discuss her new book, ‘A More Perfect Party: The Night Shirley Chisholm and Diahann Carroll Reshaped Politics’. They begin their conversation by talking about what inspired Tolliver to write about the legendary political fundraiser and shining a light on the many influential luminaries that were in attendance, including Huey Newton, Flip Wilson, and Berry Gordy. After the break, Larry and Juanita talk about the converging ideologies that aligned themselves with Chisholm’s groundbreaking campaign and draw comparisons between her and Kamala Harris’s recent bid for the presidency (30:19). Juanita ends the pod by contemplating on who could fill Shirley Chisholm’s revolutionary shoes in today’s politics, and sharing some of the favorite things she learned while researching the book (46:03).
Host: Larry Wilmore
Guest: Juanita Tolliver
Producers: Brandy LaPlante and Chris Sutton
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what about what's going in this country now? people see that the country is going backwards in not a good way for minorities and women. there is a half the country that is all for it.
loved this segment Larry. great observation of the scotus nomination this wk. and great interview. we love Winning Time!
Oops!
the problem with the fighting this together is that those on one side don't believe there is a virus.
Great conversation as usual. Alot of info we didn't know about. sounds like a good read.
you are correct. I never understood the ID is racist.
This was a good podcast discussion. I learned so much about comedians and comedy. I need to get this book.
This was so incredibly funny! I laughed my ass off. I never knew Wanda worked for NSA?
Goddamn, what does Larry have against Kamau?? Hope he's just trying to play devil's advocate, because he's sounding like an old "rational" conservative right now!!!
I think Larry needs to look at Blow's proposition as an invitation, not a directive. Keep your eyes on the prize...Blow is just offering a pathway!
Oh look, a nigger.
So many commercials wow
Love the lines...hillary lies like a politician, Trump lies like a crack head!😂
excellent podcast.
Larry, One Saturday night I was having a beer with a homeboy (brother) he brought up Trump and asked me what I thought of him on some issue. Well, he was either supporting Trump or considering. I was unequivocal on my distate and abhorhance for Trump is strictly as a president at the least. Once he is a private citizen (at some point) I will go back to not caring about who he is or what he thinks, that's really it He clearly lacks leadership at the most fundamental basic level is enough for me alone, although there are many other reasons I could give. Anyway, my homeboy understood how I felt, just a fundamental discust for the office of the president, that's my thoughts.
when do we get the show about the many ADVANTAGES of Joe Biden?
We've been celebrating Juneteenth in Minneapolis for years. Ijs
excellent commentary! the soil is rotten! wow!
Larry Wilmore is PAINFULLY unfunny
a 5 yr old may be smarter than POTUS? that's cringe worthy!!