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
191 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 this episode of Naked Sports, host Cari Champion discusses her recent NAACP Image Award nomination, the devastating impact of wildfires in California, and the journey of a professional volleyball player, highlighting the importance of women's sports and community support. Haleigh Washington Two-Time Olympic Medalist and Founding Athlete of LOVE Volleyball shares her journey through the world of volleyball, emphasizing the importance of humility, teamwork, and the challenges professional athletes face. She discusses her experiences playing overseas, creating a new volleyball league, and the impact of the Olympic experience on her career. The conversation also touches on the need for greater visibility and support for women's sports and personal anecdotes that highlight her personality and passion for the game. Connect @CariChampion @Hales__Storm Learn More LoveB.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE Channel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today’s episode host Cari Champion engages with Napheesa Collier, a player and co-founder of the new women's basketball league, Unrivaled. They discuss the evolution of women's basketball, the challenges faced by female athletes, and the innovative approach of Unrivaled in addressing salary disparities and creating generational wealth for players. The conversation also touches on the impact of NIL in college sports, the growing fan base for women's basketball, and the need for consistent officiating in the WNBA. Collier expounds on the importance of equity and recognition for female athletes and expresses optimism for the future of women's sports. Connect @CariChampion @Hales__Storm Learn More LoveB.com Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, producers Jacquees Thomas and Olubusayo Shabi step from behind the scenes to help recap the season so far as we wrap up the year. We begin by revisiting the opening limited series, “The Making of a Rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese,” delving into how race and privilege shape sports narratives. The conversation then highlights Kamala Harris’s political journey and explores how Black women persevere in the face of systemic challenges. This segment underscores the importance of empowerment, perspective, and pursuing financial success as vehicles for change, inspired by the episode “A Love Letter to Black Women” with Bozoma Saint John. Finally, we tackle the universal obstacles life throws at us, guided by insights from the show’s recent guest, mogul Fawn Weaver, and her roadmap to “Building a Billion Dollar Brand.” Listen to every episode from Season 4 plus more: Naked Sports with CariChampion Connect with the Team: @CariChampion @HumbleProducer @Nottoo_shabi @ThatsPeace Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Clarissa Shields a two-time Olympic gold medalist and boxing champion, discusses her life journey, the upcoming biopic 'The Fire Inside', and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated sport. Clarissa emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and confidence and the influence of her upbringing in Flint, Michigan. She also shares insights about her relationship with her coach, the misconceptions about her personality, the struggles of maintaining her identity amidst public scrutiny, and her efforts to control her narrative. Watch The Trailer The Fire Inside based on the incredible true story of Claressa Shields. Only in theaters on Christmas Day! Connect @CariChampion @ClarissaSheilds Learn More Claressa Shields Says Fight With Legend Would Be The Biggest In Women’s Boxing History Subscribe Cari Champion's YOUTUBE ChannelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Weaver, the CEO and founder of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, shares her journey of uncovering the legacy of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. She discusses the historical significance of the relationship between Nearest Green and Jack Daniel, the impact of Prohibition on the whiskey industry, and the importance of honoring African American contributions to distilling. Fawn also highlights her efforts to revive Nearest's legacy through her brand, which has become one of the most awarded bourbons in the world. We also gain insight into the journey of building the Uncle Nearest brand, highlighting the challenges faced in a predominantly white industry with centuries of business and multi-generations of operation. Weaver emphasizes the need for a broader definition of culture, the power of storytelling, and the mindset to overcome entrepreneurship challenges needed to build a legacy. Connect: @CariChampion @FawnWeaver Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's episode is from a special live taping at the 2024 Art Basel in Miami. This conversation explores the powerful intersection of art and sports, particularly focusing on the experiences of women in these fields. It highlights the importance of representation, empowerment, and the challenges faced by women artists and athletes. The discussion features insights from notable figures like Mickalene Thomas (Artist) and Napheesa Collier (Unrivaled), emphasizing the need for equity, support, and collaboration in both the art and sports communities. The panel explores themes of representation, confidence, and the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. The discussion highlights the significance of mentorship, community, and the need for women to advocate for their worth in both the art and sports worlds. The speakers share personal stories and insights on navigating their careers while uplifting others in their fields. Panel Members: Mickalene Thomas - Artist Napheesa Collier- Founder and Player Unrivaled Women's Basketball League Kennedy Yanko - Artist See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the season finale of The Making of a Rivalry, Cari interviews Gina Prince - Bythewood, director and screenwriter whose resume includes: The Old Guard, The Woman King and Love and Basketball - a film that centers a Black athlete with dreams of being the first woman to play in the NBA. Trista Krick, also joins the conversation to discuss what the future holds for the league and the rising stars who are coming. WNBA players featured at the end of the episode: Angel Reese Odyssey Sims Dearica Hamby Lindsay Allen Brianna Turner Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ashlyn Harris, a retired professional soccer player and two-time World Cup champion. Ashlyn shares her journey, discussing her transition from soccer to a creative career, the complexities of professional relationships, and the challenges she faced during her marriage and subsequent divorce. The conversation delves into themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the impact of public scrutiny on personal life, ultimately highlighting the importance of finding happiness and authenticity after heartbreak and the effect of trauma on her identity. Please Note that some of the topics discussed may be jarring and triggering. We truly hope Ashlyn's story serves as a bridge for those who can relate. May it offer comfort and solidarity. And for others, may it open your heart to a perspective brave enough to be vulnerable, inviting connection through a willingness to share. Connect: @CariChampion @AshlynHarris24 Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See 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.
The Black Effect Presents... Naked Sports with Cari Champion! Welcome to Season 4 of NAKED SPORTS! We're excited to kick off the season with a six-episode docu-series, *The Making of a Rivalry*, which follows the rise of women's basketball stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The series traces their journey from high school to college, examining the media frenzy that has fueled their rivalry. It highlights their impact on the sport and how they've shaped the perception of women's basketball. The series also explores the importance of rivalries in sports and why competition is essential. This episode features interviews with players, coaches, and sports journalists, offering insights into the players' skills, personalities, and the challenges they face. Special guests in this episode include Jemele Hill, Sarah Spain, Sabreena Merchant, and more." Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cari delivers a powerful love letter to Black women in this heartfelt episode. She reflects on the emotional impact of Kamala Harris's election campaign and subsequent loss, exploring themes of resilience, vulnerability, and the collective pain felt by Black women across the country while emphasizing the importance of hope and community. Joining Cari is Bozoma Saint John, to help highlight the unique strength of Black women and their unwavering commitment to excellence, even in the face of adversity. The day after the election, Bozoma posted on Instagram with the caption, "Good morning to my sisters, and only my sisters." One of the slides in her post broke down the "Sex by Race" numbers, highlighting how Black women showed up at the polls to support Harris. The post concluded with an abstract image of a Black woman sitting on the edge of a bed—"Blue Monday" by Annie Lee—capturing the exhaustion and emotional weight of the moment. This message resonated deeply with Cari and many other women in the days following the election. Black women, this episode is for you. Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With the election this week and so many experiencing understandable concern, this special episode with Elliott Connie offers hope amidst political turmoil. This conversation highlights women's empowerment in sports and politics, the impact of mental health on political discourse, and the pervasive issues of racism and confirmation bias in society. The episode opens with a special message from Thomas Booker and concludes with encouraging words of hope for listeners to fight for what matters to them, emphasizing the importance of voting and civic engagement. Connect: @CariChampion @ThomasBooker @ElliottConnie Subscribe: Naked Sports with Cari Champion on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cari Champion and Master Tesfatsion discuss the current NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys' ongoing struggles, Jerry Jones' controversial history, and the role of Black athletes in activism. The conversation highlights the complexities of sports culture, the challenges faced by athletes, and the need for accountability in leadership. Connect: @Master_Tesfatsion @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cari engages in a deep conversation with Angela Rye, exploring the intersections of sports, politics, and culture. Angela shares her upbringing in an activist household, the nuances of advocacy, and the significance of using platforms for social change. They discuss the importance of activism, the role of athletes in political engagement, and the stakes of the upcoming election. Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion @AngelaRye Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the season finale of The Making of a Rivalry, Cari interviews Gina Prince - Bythewood, director and screenwriter whose resume includes: The Old Guard, The Woman King and Love and Basketball - a film that centers a Black athlete with dreams of being the first woman to play in the NBA. Trista Krick, also joins the conversation to discuss what the future holds for the league and the rising stars who are coming. WNBA players featured at the end of the episode: Angel Reese Odyssey Sims Dearica Hamby Lindsay Allen Brianna Turner Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Cari delves into the dynamics of rivalries in sports and music, with a particular focus on the perceived rivalries between female athletes, such as Caitlin Clark versus Angel Reese, and likens them to those between artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. If we're being honest, there’s a societal compulsion to compare women, pitting them against each other as though the real competition lies in the comparison itself rather than the sport. The ongoing narrative of placing women in opposition has proven to be a profitable story, one that has fueled various industries throughout history. We also examine the responsibilities these women carry as public figures and emphasize the vital role authenticity plays in how they represent themselves. Cari Champion interviews Suzy Exposito, an independent journalist based in Los Angeles, and Justin Tinsley, a senior reporter with ESPN's Andscape. Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Cari takes listeners back to the 2023 Women's National Championship game between LSU and Iowa — a game that made history and gave rise to one of the most significant moments in sports. We'll delve into its cultural impact, the media's portrayal of the players, and the ongoing conversations around race and gender in sports. The game shattered records and may have shown that every great player needs a foil. Cari Champion interviews Jemele Hill, FlauJae Johnson. Chiney Ogwumike, Sabreena Merchant, Ryan Ruocco, and Terrika Foster-Brasby Other voices include Kev on Stage, Djonai Carrington, Alyssa Thomas, and more... Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This conversation delves into the complexities of race, rivalry, and media narratives in women's basketball, focusing on the contrasting portrayals of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Cari Champion interviews Ron James, Reese's former AAU Coach. They discuss Angel's character on and off the court and the role of family in athlete development. The discussion highlights the importance of rivalry in sports, the evolution of women's basketball as it gains recognition and respect, and players like Angel Reese's impact on the game. Cari also speaks with journalist Mitchell Northam, and Angel's former LSU teammate, FlauJae Johnson. Other voices include Ryan Ruocco, Sabreena Merchant, Kev on Stage, and more... Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode we highlight the evolution of women's sports, particularly focusing on the impact of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in the WNBA. Cari Champion interviews Lisa Bluder, former head coach of the University of Iowa women's basketball team. They discuss the impact of Caitlin Clark on the sport and her experience coaching Caitlin to superstardom. Bluder shares her thoughts on the challenges and changes in women's athletics and gives her take on Caitlin’s performance in the WNBA. Cari also speaks with Caitlin’s high school coach, Kristin Meyer, Their conversation explores Caitlin's skills and playing style, her off-court personality, and the comparisons made between her and other basketball players. Within both conversations, we explore the historical context of women's athletics, the role of social media in shaping narratives, and the complexities of rivalry and race in sports. Other voices include Ryan Ruocco, Sarah Spain, Sabreena Merchant, Kev on Stage, and more... Connect: @CariChampion @NakedwithCariChampion Check out NAKED SPORTS on YouTube!See 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.