BREAKING: Judge Leaning Towards Longer Sentence for Diddy

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Amy Robach & T.J. Holmes Present

Episode Title: BREAKING: Judge Leaning Towards Longer Sentence for Diddy
Date: October 3, 2025
Hosts: Amy Robach & T.J. Holmes
Podcast: iHeartPodcasts

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Main Theme and Purpose

This emergency episode dives into the dramatic developments in the Sean "Diddy" Combs sentencing hearing, which reached a pivotal moment on October 3, 2025. Amy and TJ break down the significant legal setbacks for Diddy, the judge’s unyielding stance, the arguments over what evidence and testimony should influence sentencing, and the emotional impact of his family’s courtroom presence. With the judge signaling a sentence much longer than Diddy’s defense hoped, the hosts explore both the legal and human sides of the courtroom drama as they await the final verdict.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

Initial Court Developments & Tone (03:01–04:45)

• Judge’s attitude is described as notably unsympathetic to Diddy and consistent with past decisions against the defense.
• "Right off the bat... you could tell he lost a couple of arguments with his attorneys." — Amy (03:16)
• Diddy appears somber, dresses casually (not prison attire), family present including his mother and all of his children.

Witness Testimonies and Courtroom Tactics (04:45–06:33)

• Notably, “Mia” (former assistant and pseudonymous accuser) was not allowed to testify in person due to defense objections—though she submitted a letter.

  • "His lawyers sent a note... that she not be allowed to testify because they claim she is not a victim... The prosecution said that was a bullying tactic." — TJ (04:45)
  • Defense accused of being unprofessional and personally attacking Mia’s credibility.

• Broader implication: Echoes patterns cited by other accusers of Diddy exerting intimidation.

  • “That’s why they don’t want Diddy out... when you read or heard about the tone of that letter... that was some insight, perhaps, into this other Diddy.” — TJ (06:01)

Legal Arguments on Sentencing Factors (06:33–09:45)

• Acquitted conduct: Judge will consider “bad behavior” and uncharged or acquitted acts in sentencing, including testimonies from Mia and Cassie Ventura Fine.

  • "The judge made it very clear he can consider what they call acquitted conduct." — TJ (07:28)

• Remorse and responsibility: Defense wanted Diddy's apology letter considered as proof of taking responsibility; the judge firmly rejected this.

  • "The judge said he expressed remorse for some things but said, quote, Combs has challenged his factual guilt full-throatedly and had done so even after trial. Ouch." — TJ (08:33)

• Terminology fight: Defense argued to keep the term “victims” out of the sentencing report, but failed.

  • "The judge is allowing Cassie, Jane, and female prostitutes to be referred to as victims." — TJ (09:33)

Sentencing Guidelines Revealed (09:45–11:45)

• Range discussed:
  • Defense requested: 14 months
  • Prosecution requested: 11 years and 3 months
  • Judge’s calculation: 70–87 months (5 years, 10 months to 7 years, 3 months)
  • "It is not looking good... that's minimum five years and ten months, maximum seven years, three months." — TJ (11:22)
  • Both hosts believe Diddy is unlikely to get a lesser sentence than this range.

Prosecution Surprise: Diddy's Miami Engagements (12:19–15:35)

• Bombshell: Prosecutors claim Diddy had booked speaking engagements in Miami next week, implying he expected a quick release.
  • "The prosecutor told the court that Diddy had already booked speaking engagements in Miami for next week... the height of hubris..." — TJ (13:01)
  • Amy and TJ express disbelief and skepticism about Diddy's judgment.
  • The scheduled talks are for a nonprofit helping the formerly incarcerated.
  • "He's still putting on his hero cape. Look at me. I'm reformed. Let me help you do the same." — TJ (14:12)
  • Both hosts feel this undermines Diddy’s claims of humility and reform.

Emotional Defense: Character Witnesses & Courtroom Video (16:02–19:38)

• Diddy’s attorney Nicole Westmoreland, who became emotional, highlighted his community contributions and personal journey.
• The defense showed a polished video montage of Diddy’s philanthropic and family life, meant to portray him as a positive influence.
  • "For me, that was just my initial reaction... it was manipulative... he thinks we’re stupid, that somehow we just think he’s this great guy now." — TJ (17:02)
• Both hosts call the effort transparent and poorly timed, feeling it undercut the defense’s legitimacy.

Most Human Moment: Diddy’s Children Address the Court (24:56–29:22)

• Diddy's six adult children and his 2-year-old daughter, Love, addressed the court as a group.
  • "This was the moment... Diddy actually was absolutely in tears when his six kids got up to speak." — Amy (25:44)
• Statement from his daughter:
  • “Watching him nurture her (the youngest) even from a distance has been unexpectedly healing… but my sister deserves so much more than this.” — Diddy’s daughter (26:28)
  • “We know he isn’t perfect and has made many mistakes and we aren’t here to excuse those... but he’s still our dad and we need him present in our lives… Please give us the chance to heal together and move forward together.” — Diddy’s daughter, on behalf of all siblings (27:10–27:48)
• Hosts reflect on the genuine emotion, the children’s unique challenges (having lost their mother), and whether these moments might move the judge more than any video or letter.

Anticipating Final Statements and Sentencing (29:22–30:40)

• Diddy is expected to address the court after lunch; hosts debate whether he will come across as authentic or overly rehearsed.
  • "I just hope we see more humility and less hubris." — TJ (30:02)
• Sentencing guidance: 6–7 years expected, much higher than defense hopes.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

"He lost a couple of arguments with his attorneys." — Amy (03:16)

"The prosecution said that was a bullying tactic." — TJ (04:45)

"I want to see real humility and real heart... For me... it didn’t feel like it came from the right place. It came from a place of survival and self-preservation." — TJ (28:12)

"My jaw actually dropped." — TJ, about Diddy’s alleged Miami bookings (13:28)

"Watching him nurture her even from a distance has been unexpectedly healing… but my sister deserves so much more than this." — Diddy’s daughter (26:28)

"We are tired of being strong. We have already lost so much. Our mother, our father… please give us the chance to heal together and move forward together." — Diddy’s daughter (27:46)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [03:01] — Opening and first indications from the judge
• [04:45] — Mia barred from testimony, defense tactics labeled bullying
• [06:33] — Judge to consider acquitted conduct in sentencing
• [08:33] — Judge rejects Diddy's claims of taking responsibility
• [09:45] — Sentencing range revealed: 70–87 months
• [13:01] — Diddy’s Miami speaking engagements revealed by prosecution
• [16:02] — Emotional testimony from Diddy’s attorney about his life and contributions
• [17:02] — Host reaction to the "mitigation" video
• [24:56] — The children’s group statement; Diddy brought to tears
• [26:28] — Full quote from daughter regarding Diddy's parenting
• [27:46] — Daughter appeals for mercy, highlighting loss and the need for healing

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Tone & Commentary

The hosts maintain a balanced, conversational, and at times incredulous tone, oscillating between legal analysis and empathetic reflection. While critical of Diddy's attempts at self-promotion and the defense’s tactics, they connect emotionally with the impact on his family and acknowledge the complexity of the decisions before the judge.

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Summary

This episode captures the mounting tension and legal complexity surrounding Diddy’s sentencing, as the judge leans toward a much longer prison term than Diddy’s team sought. Amy and TJ provide real-time updates, critical analysis of courtroom strategy, and heartfelt reactions—especially to the emotional plea from Diddy's children. The episode ends with anticipation, as listeners await Diddy’s own statement and the judge’s final decision, which will be covered in an immediate follow-up episode.

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Transcript

[Amy]

This is an I Heart podcast.

[Dr. J]

I love that you created this system that revolves around you, creating pockets of peace. World Mental Health Day is around the corner and on my podcast, just heal with Dr. J, I dive into what it really means to care for your mind, body and spirit. From breaking generational patterns to building emotional.

[Simone Boyce]

Capacity, I'm going to walk away feeling.

[TJ]

Like, yes, I'm going to continue my healing journey.

[Dr. J]

Listen to just heal with Dr. J from the Black Effect Podcast Network on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Dr. Leslie]

Do you want to hear the secrets of psychopaths, murderers, sex offenders? In this episode, I offer tips from them. I'm Dr. Leslie, forensic psychologist. This is a podcast where I cut through the noise with real talk.

[Friend of Dr. Leslie]

When you were described to me as a forensic psychologist, I was like, snooze. We ended up talking for hours and I was like, this girl is my best friend.

[Dr. Leslie]

Let's talk about safety and strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones. Listen to Intentionally disturbing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Danielle Robaix]

Just like great shoes, great books take you places through unforgettable love stories and into conversations with characters you'll never forget.

[Ebony]

I think any good romance, it gives me this feeling of like butterflies.

[Danielle Robaix]

I'm Danielle Robet and this is bookmarked by Reese's Book Club, the new podcast from hello Sunshine and I Heart Podcasts where we dive into the stories that shape us on the page and off. Each week I'm joined by authors, celebs, book talk stars and more for conversations that will make you laugh, cry and add way too many books to your TBR pile. Listen to Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Books is the official audiobook and ebook home for Reese's Book Club. Visit Apple co Reese Apple Books to find out more.

[Ebony]

Welcome to Pretty Private with ebony, the podcast where silence is broken and stories are set free. I'm Ebony and every Tuesday I'll be sharing all new anonymous stories that would challenge your perceptions and give you new insight on the people around you. Every Tuesday, make sure you listen to Pretty Private from the Black Effect Podcast Network. Tune in on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

[Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford]

I'm Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford, host of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast. I know how overwhelming it can feel if flying makes you anxious. In session 418 of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast. Dr. Angela Neal Barnett and I discuss flight anxiety.

[Ebony]

What is not normal is to allow it to prevent you from doing the things that you want to do, the things that you were meant to do.

[Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford]

Listen to Therapy for Black Girls on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Amy]

Hey there, folks. It is Friday, October 3rd, sentencing day for Diddy. They're on a lunch break as we speak, but we wanted to hop on because it has been a morning of developments and some of them jaw dropping. Welcome to this episode of Amy and TJ Robes. We didn't know how long this thing was going to go. They're taking a lunch break. Coming back at 2 Eastern. Still expecting to hear from Diddy. But this morning, things right off the bat were not going his way. Right off the jump, just hearing from the judge, you could tell he lost a couple of, or did he at least lost a couple of arguments, if you will, with his attorneys and things. They were trying to get into the sentencing memo and we all kind of and a lot of reporters in the room that we are grateful for. There was a tone to where things weren't going his way.

[TJ]

Well, and it's the tone that we've heard from this judge, it feels like since the onset and certainly as we've seen Diddy over the last several months try to either get out on bail, awaiting sentencing, trying to get charges or convictions thrown out, and the judge has not sided with him one single time from what I can recall. So he's consistent and he's staying on brand today.

[Amy]

That's a very good point. The judge didn't surprise us at all with what he did off the top. We'll explain that this started 10 o' clock this morning. All of Diddy's kids are there. His mom is there. He's described today as somber by some people in the courtroom, some of the courtroom observers. But today dressed very casually. He's not in his prison uniform he's allowed to wear today. At least he was allowed to wear street clothes and v neck tan sweater or something like that today. Now, headline one, Robes Mia, who testified under that pseudonym, Mia, former assistant. She requested to address the court. We found out immediately, ain't happening.

[TJ]

It ain't happening. And it didn't look good for Diddy because his lawyers sent a note to the court, to the judge asking that she not be allowed to testify because they claim she is not a victim. Now, technically, Diddy was not convicted on the allegations made by Mia. But even the judge ruled that the way the tone of the letter was, that it was inappropriate. The prosecution said that it was a bullying tactic by Diddy and his defense team. So by them trying to get Mia not to testify, which she is not going to, she sent a letter instead. It was. It didn't make them look good, sympathetic or in any way, despite his apologies that we've heard about, that didn't make him feel very sympathetic or that he had learned anything, at least through this.

[Amy]

Court system, because at least in their argument that she shouldn't be able to testify, it didn't sound like they were making legal arguments. It sounded very personal. And even the prosecutor called it unprofessional. They flat out called her a liar. This is all a show for her. She wants to come back now and be a part of the show. And I said to you this morning, we were getting ready. I said, man, I wonder if that could be seen as like. Like the. She's not going to show up because she might feel intimidated or bullied. Yes, sure enough is exactly what happened.

[TJ]

Which is exactly what we've heard from people like Cassie Ventura. Fine. Who say that's why they don't want Diddy out. Because they say, sure, he's putting on this nice guy show and telling you all these wonderful things he's done in prison and how he's a changed man. But when you read or heard about the tone of that letter and how he didn't want Mia to be given the opportunity to speak or address the court about being a victim of his, that was some insight, perhaps, into this other ditty that we're hearing about from Mia from other witnesses from his alleged victims.

[Amy]

Well, yeah, she did submit her letter. Not the same impact, but she did get a chance to submit a letter. Now, the things we talked about off top, that didn't go his way. Robes, this is a big, big, big deal because this was a part of the fight the defense was having with the prosecutors about what conduct of his should be considered in his sentencing. His two convictions are for transportation, to engage in prostitution, essentially for being a john. His defense team argues, like, if this is all you're sentencing him for, then obviously he shouldn't get these big. Some 10, 20 year sentence. Their argument is, yeah, you saw him beat her on camera. Yes, he was a domestic abuser. Yes, he used drugs. Yeah, he wasn't convicted for any of that stuff. Well, now the judge this morning said, in fact, he is going to consider some of Diddy's bad behavior in sentencing him. This was huge.

[TJ]

Yes. And this was a big legal argument because Diddy's attorneys were trying to make the legal argument, the legal point that that shouldn't be considered. But the judge made it very clear that he can consider what they call acquitted conduct, the conduct that he was charged with but acquitted for, not convicted of by the jury. So you can, and the judge can certainly take into account Diddy's actions surrounding those charges that the jury didn't find him guilty of. Meaning Mia's testimony is going to be considered by the judge and certainly Cassie Ventura Fine's testimony is going to be considered by the judge as he makes his sentencing recommendation.

[Amy]

All right, so that was one thing the acquitted conduct can be considered. The other thing that can be considered, excuse me, not to be considered as a part of this sentencing report, this pre sentencing report. Essentially you put all the information in there and then it kind of gives you an equation for how much time somebody should get. Well, the defense wanted to include in there that Diddy had taken responsibility for his actions. The judge said, oh hell no, he has not.

[TJ]

That that is remarkable because yes, in our earlier episode we read for you most of, if not all of Diddy's letter to the judge that he gave last night to the court where he did say he was sorry, where he did write that he took full responsibility. But the judge woo. The judge said he expressed remorse for some things but said quote, combs has challenged his factual guilt for full throatedly and had done so even after trial. Ouch.

[Amy]

Take responsibility. If you're sitting here saying I'm not guilty, that was as simple and plain as you can make it. So they are not going to include in this sentencing report that he took responsibility. Also the defense was arguing, trying to make sure in this sentencing report do not call Cassie, Jane or those male prostitutes victims. Now I don't know why this was so key but it mattered and they argued about it. Once again the judge said to the defense, you're not gonna win this one either.

[TJ]

That's right. The judge is allowing Cassie, Jane and female prostitutes to be referred to as victims in this pre sentencing report. So yes, he has been delivered blow after blow today.

[Amy]

Yeah, this morning did not go well from him. And then so everything we're telling you led to what we are about to say now. So the defense robes asked for 14 months based on their calculation. Prosecution said he should get 11 years and three months based on their calculation. The judge with his presentence report this morning put all that information in there and he came up with the actual number that should be considered for how long Diddy should be in prison in robes. It is not looking good.

[TJ]

No. 70 to 87 months. That's what the judge's calculation is based on the pre sentencing report. Everything that was put in, is there a full, an actual mathematic formula or an algorithm or something that he actually can put into a computer and it calculates it for him or is he doing it in his own math, in his own head?

[Amy]

You know what, my understanding it is kind of like a legal, like you fill in blanks. You're is he this? Is he this? Is he this and he this? And it's a standard form and then after that it pops out and you go through and look and consider whatever scores or grades and you go through and look and say, yep, this is the range of time he should get. So yeah, it's like, it's like that. It's not literally that, but it's like putting numbers and a formula into an equation and then it spits out how much time you're supposed to have. And this is what got spit out. So now it's not a matter that 14 months and going home, being home.

[TJ]

By Christmas, that's not happening. I think we can say that with pretty great assurance that he is not going home before the holidays or even before the end of the year given this judge.

[Amy]

No, after he has said this. So that's what we're dealing with is how far below or above the guidelines does this judge.

[TJ]

So this guidelines is five years and 10 months to seven years and three months. So 70 months to 87 months. That's, I mean, so by that calculation, minimum five years and 10 months, maximum seven years, three months. Now he can consider, like you said, to go up or to go down based on what he sees in court. But based on what we're hearing from the judge in court, doesn't seem like he's inclined to go down.

[Amy]

Yes. Okay, that's a better way to put it. Even if he doesn't go up, I certainly don't feel like he's going to go down. It doesn't seem that six years for Diddy in prison, potentially at this point, what we're looking at in indications seem to be 14 months already. That means he's an extra four years in prison.

[TJ]

Possibly, yes. And I think, you know, you and I had been talking about it, having followed this trial every single day, we both kind of privately made our best guesses and you and I were both right around five years. We said that seems like that might be where this is headed and could be that's exactly where this is headed. Or worse.

[Amy]

Yes. And so during the day today, this continued this morning. So this is kind of, again, we didn't know how long this was going to go, but it's gone into what feels like now an almost full day of a hearing. But the prosecution got to make a presentation. The defense got to make a presentation as well. The. Those are through, at least. And the kids got to talk. The prosecutors. It was interesting. This was the moment of the morning, I believe. Robes that they described as like Diddy's head even shot up. And people, they said, every person in the room, their mouth dropped open because this robes, if it is true, I can't believe for a second that Diddy would be this stupid.

[TJ]

Yes. And because it does not look good, the prosecutor told the court that Diddy had already booked speaking engagements in Miami for next week. Week. And called it the height of hubris for him to do that, that he had such an expectation that he was going to be released after this sentencing hearing that he actually booked speaking engagements in Miami.

[Amy]

Okay, what was our reaction to it?

[TJ]

My jaw actually dropped.

[Amy]

I didn't think it was true.

[TJ]

You actually didn't believe it.

[Amy]

I said, nah, that. That can't be true. Nobody's that stupid. It is not. Obviously not. Of course you wouldn't do that.

[TJ]

That's sick.

[Amy]

And yet it appears he did. However, there is more to that story. There has been a letter, a briefing that has been filed and put on. On file there with the court from a nonprofit organization in Miami that deals with incarcerated individuals who are making a transition back into society. He, Diddy, according to this letter from this group, is signed up to speak at that organization on October 14th, 17th, 23rd, 25th and 29th.

[TJ]

And look, you asked me if it made a difference in my reaction to know that he was speaking to a nonprofit group. And my answer is not really, because he's still putting on his hero cape. Look at me. I'm reformed. Let me help you do the same. Let me. He's still. And even in the letter he sent to the judge, he had. He was looking at everything through his own philanthropy and his own ability to overcome and his heroism, that it's too soon for that. It's way too soon for that. He's just apologized yesterday for all of this, and now he's going to be this motivational speaker. I'm sorry if that makes me feel actually, like, physically ill in some shape. It doesn't sit right. It's not the right timing. And certainly, yeah, that is some ego there to think that you actually were going to be able to go and stand in front of a crowd and be hailed. Some good guy who's turned his life around who's gonna help other people do the same.

[Amy]

I wanna hear more about this. I still cannot believe anyone would be this. That's not even arrogance. That's pure stupidity. You know, if somebody's, somebody's gonna find out about it, it's gonna. This looks terrible.

[TJ]

The reports in the room, I know you said people like. I don't know if you specified it was his head shot up. They said like he couldn't believe that. Almost as if. Because we don't know. But it seemed as if he was shocked that they knew that he had a speaking. Hey, he had several speaking engagements lined up.

[Amy]

This, this one makes no sense. I actually am reserving my opinion on this one until I hear. Because I just can't believe that anyone would do this. I don't care what it is. A dentist appointment, I don't give a damn. How are you gonna make plans for next week? You're essentially telling the judge, yeah, I know what he gonna do. I'm out of here. The judge might give him nine years.

[TJ]

I mean, in all seriousness. Yes.

[Amy]

Okay. So the other defense got to go up and make their presentation as well. And Robes actually had two lawyers go up and the second one, Nicole Westmoreland, a black woman who spoke for a little bit, she got quite emotional up there. Reports are she was crying and tearing up in there, but telling the story of what he has meant to the community and how much it was a big deal to see someone from where he's from succeed in the way he did. He built himself, he built an industry, he built a company. And I think, yes, that is all true. And he did contribute so much. And his success story is a brilliant one. Today a presentation sees someone crying on his behalf. Again, reading the room today, the timing of the video and the speaking engagement.

[TJ]

Can we talk about the video?

[Amy]

We haven't talked about it. Was it 12, 15 minutes? What do they say it is?

[TJ]

Yes, but it was basically a highly produced, well lit video that showed Diddy running the New York City Marathon for a philanthropic cause. His playing with his young children, being a good dad, having people talk about what a phenomenal member of the community he's been. I'm sorry, but it's. For me, that was just my initial reaction was. And I have had moments where I have felt sorry for him in the sense that he had everything thrown at him and was facing charges that I don't even believe he necessarily should have been facing, because he is who he was. And yet when that video. When we heard and saw some of the snippets, I just felt like it was manipulative. I felt like he thinks we're stupid, that somehow we just think he's this great guy now. It just. It didn't. Not only did it not make me want to rally behind him or root for him or hope that he gets a lighter sentence, it actually made me feel the opposite, that he was using his money, his wealth, his power to try and influence and the fact that he thinks we're so dumb that we're gonna fall for it.

[Amy]

Though we've had a lot of feelings about this story, just as human beings watching this story. This is the one thing I couldn't believe, how much this video irked you. It really, really did. And you said, timing is everything. You. This is the most I've seen. You probably get annoyed now, obviously, his behavior was atrocious and things we saw. But this set you off.

[TJ]

It did today. It did. I. It did not sit well with me, and I can't imagine it sat well with the judge. But you know what? I don't know. That's just my personal reaction. Having listened to everything he's accused of, having listened to these women sob up there on the witness stand and talk about decades of abuse, and he's put together this shiny package of how great of a guy he is. It's tough.

[Amy]

It's trying. He's trying to remind the judge. What do they call these mitigation factors? What does it call? Well, yeah, he's trying to mitigate just how much his sentence will be by reminding that I was and I have contributed to society in a positive way. In some way. I think that's all he's trying to do, just show himself and remind the judge that, hey, I've done some good stuff, as simple as that.

[TJ]

It didn't work for me, but it.

[Amy]

Just seems like a show at this time. Like, obviously, we know what you're doing, and I think that's all you see when you see that.

[TJ]

Yes, yes, exactly. You know what you're trying to do. Yes. And I think everyone's aware of some of the contributions he made. I mean, he was on his way to becoming a billionaire, and he. Yes, I think in that sense, when you have that kind of a platform, there is a level of responsibility to do good and to be good. So I don't even give him that many kudos for what he did.

[Amy]

Okay, I didn't think about it that way. But also, in the courtroom this morning, folks, reportedly Diddy was in tears. Diddy was in tears in court. We will explain who was standing at that podium when Diddy started to cry.

[Dr. J]

But the humility in knowing that life is his classroom that we should never graduate from is what is going to keep you growing. And that's all that matters. World Mental Health Day is around the corner. And on my podcast, just heal with Dr. J, I dive into what it really means to care for your mind, body, and spirit. From breaking generational patterns to building emotional capacity, Healing is a journey, and wholeness is the destination.

[Simone Boyce]

I'm gonna walk away feeling very healed.

[TJ]

And feeling like, yes, I'm gonna continue my healing journey and I'm gonna get some keys from you.

[Dr. J]

Listen to just healed with Dr. J from the Black Effect Podcast Network on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Friend of Dr. Leslie]

I just think the process and the journey is so delicious. That's where all the good stuff is. You just can't live and die by the end result.

[TJ]

It's scary putting yourself out there, especially when it's something you really care about and something that you hope is your passion in life and you want people to like it.

[Simone Boyce]

Let's get delicious and put ourselves out there. I'm Simone Boyce, host of the Bright side, and those were my recent guests, comedian Phoebe Robinson and writer Aaron Foster. On this show, I'm talking to the brightest minds in entertainment, health, wellness, and pop culture. And every week, we're going places in our communities, our careers, and ourselves. It's not about being perfect. It's about going on a journey and discovering the bright side of becoming. Few people know that better than soccer legend Ashlyn Harris.

[TJ]

It's the journey, it's the people, it's the failures, it's the heartache, it's the little moments.

[Simone Boyce]

These are our moments to laugh, learn, and exhale. So join me every Monday, and let's find the bright side together. Listen to the bright side on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Dr. Leslie]

Do you want to hear the secrets of serial killers, psychopaths, pedophiles, robbers?

[Amy]

They are sitting there waiting for the vulnerable thing. They're waiting for the unprotected.

[Dr. Leslie]

I'm Dr. Leslie, forensic psychologist. I advocate for safety and awareness of predators while wearing pink when you were.

[Friend of Dr. Leslie]

Described to me as a forensic psychologist. I was like snooze. We ended up talking for hours and I was like this girl is my best friend.

[Dr. Leslie]

This is a podcast where I cut through the noise with sarcasm, satire and hard truths.

[TJ]

I'm not going to fake it and.

[Dr. Leslie]

Force it, but would you force an orgasm? Because that's like a different layer. The car accident you didn't want to see but couldn't turn away from. In this episode I discuss personal safety and self defense tools, instincts and strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones in everyday life and high risk safety situations. Listen to Intentionally disturbing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Ebony]

Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast I would.

[Valisha Butterfield]

Love for you to share your breakdown on pivoting.

[Ebony]

We feel sometimes like we're leaving a part of us behind when we enter a new space, but we're just building.

[Valisha Butterfield]

On A recent episode of Culture Raises Us, I was joined by Valisha Butterfield, media founder, political strategist and tech powerhouse for a powerful conversation on storytelling, impact and the intersections of culture and leadership.

[Ebony]

I am a free black woman who worked really hard to be able to say that.

[Valisha Butterfield]

I'd love for you to break down why it was so important for you.

[Ebony]

To do C. You can't win at something you didn't create.

[Valisha Butterfield]

From the Obama White House to Google to the Grammys, Malicious Journey is a masterclass in shifting culture and using your voice to spark change.

[Ebony]

A very fake capital driven environment and society will have a lot of people tell half truths.

[Valisha Butterfield]

I'm telling you, I'm on the energy committee. Like if the energy is not right, we're not doing it. Whatever that it is. Listen to Culture Raises us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Danielle Robaix]

Just like great shoes, great books take you places through unforgettable love stories and into conversations with characters you'll never forget.

[Ebony]

I think any good romance it give me this feeling of like butterflies.

[Danielle Robaix]

I'm Danielle Robaix and this is bookmarked by Reese's Book Club, the new podcast from hello Sunshine and iHeart podcasts where we dive into the stories that shape us on the page and off each week. I'm joined by authors, celebs, book talk stars and more for conversations that will make you laugh, cry and add way too many books to your TBR pile. Listen to Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts are wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Books is the official audiobook and ebook home for Reese's Book Club. Visit Apple Co ReeseAppleBooks to find out more.

[Amy]

We continue now with Diddy. We are on standby as we speak. He they are on a lunch break for his sentencing hearing. Going to start back up at 2:00 Eastern Time. After that, we expect to hear from Diddy. We expect to hear from the judge, we expect to hear from his pastor as well. But we don't know how much longer this might go. But we will find out today how much time Diddy will get in prison. The judge has now said the guideline is somewhere between roughly six and seven years, which is much higher than what the defense was asking for. Now robes. His kids got up to speak. Six, his six adult children got up to speak. And this was the moment they describe in court that Diddy actually was absolutely in tears when his six kids got. And we wonder, were they all gonna speak individually but they went up there as a group and I bet that was a hell of a scene to see.

[TJ]

Oh, yeah. And that to me. So here we have now, to me, something that's real, something that I understand and I can relate to as a parent, as a human. No matter what you've done with your life, when your children get up there and speak on your behalf, that is an emotional, real moment that doesn't feel performative in any way. And so this is where I felt differently about what I've seen in the courtroom today. Because if there was more of that, if there was contrition, if there was more humility, I would feel a lot differently about what I've seen so far. This was a moment where there was those things. And so it was his daughter, I believe, who talked about watching him nurture.

[Amy]

Her, talking about this. So he has a two year old. So he has the adult kids and then a little 12 year old named Love.

[TJ]

Love is her name.

[Amy]

So an older kid was talking about the two year old now.

[TJ]

So his daughter said watching him nurture her even from a distance has been unexpectedly healing. I can see glimpses of the father he was to us as babies. But it also breaks my heart because my sister deserves so much more than this.

[Amy]

I mean that, yes.

[TJ]

But I also, I don't know, did it jump out to you that she said she can start to see glimpses of the father he was to us as babies? Meaning he still has a lot more work to do.

[Amy]

Yeah, I mean, but he's been in prison for a year. How much parenting in there he is he said worst two years of his life. You know, the past year was the hardest. Probably the time he spent at prison. I'm not sure what kind of a guy, what kind of a father, what kind of a light, what kind of inspiration can he be to his kids behind a cell? So I don't know.

[TJ]

Yeah. And so she went on to say this and this was. This was definitely gonna pull at everyone's heartstrings. We know he isn't perfect and he has made many mistakes and we aren't here to excuse any of those mistakes. But yout Honor, he is still our dad and we still need him present in our lives. I get that. I get that.

[Amy]

And these are kids who have lost, who lost their mom. This is their only parent.

[TJ]

So she said. Our two year old sister is asking where dad is. The same way we grew up motherless. It's a hole that can't be filled. We are tired of being strong. We have already lost so much. Our mother, our father. Please give us the chance to heal together and move forward together.

[Amy]

I don't know what judges do. I don't. That's just. Yes. That your heart breaks for those kids.

[TJ]

100%.

[Amy]

Your heart breaks for those victims, for those women. It's hard. You would have to let your heart break a little bit for Diddy to give him leniency. You would have to. Don't you have to have something that mercy? Yes. Is the judge going to give him any iota of mercy?

[TJ]

I, you know, I wonder because again, I don't want to come off as harsh about my reaction to the video, into the letter that he wrote the judge, but I guess I just feel like seeing his kids, seeing him humbled, seeing him cry, seeing the real emotion between him and his children, that is what moves you. And if he had said less, done less, just said he was sorry and didn't go into how horrible his conditions are in prison and you know, all of that. But if he just kept it simple and just said, I am sorry, I have no excuses. I am learning. I want to do better. I will accept whatever punishment you give me because I deserve that and more. Thank you for even considering what I had to say and leave it at that. Don't sit there and tell everybody how great you are, how wonderful you are, how much you've learned, how. How much you deserve a second chance. See, that's when you lose me. I want to see real humility and real heart and I just for me. And maybe I am wrong, but it didn't feel. It didn't feel like it came from the right place. It came from a place of survival and self preservation. And I get that that is, yes.

[Amy]

He is trying to get out of prison and throwing everything out. Would it make a difference? We don't know. And also, will it make a difference whatever he actually says in court? Yes, folks, as we sit here. They're coming back from lunch break in just a little bit, but he is expected to address the court this afternoon. How well scripted, how well rehearsed will he come off versus how authentic is what you said. We have not had an opportunity in the past year to see him as a human being until maybe this moment. We didn't even see it. But him crying because his kids were standing up there, that's a human moment that comes through even reading about what's happening in the courtroom.

[TJ]

I just hope we see more humility and less hubris.

[Amy]

All right, well, folks, we will, we will hop back on again, a reminder if you want to keep up, there's a lot going on. Top right corner of your Apple podcast screen there it says follow. Just click that and you can get the updates coming to you from us. And there will be another one today for sure about Sean Diddy Combs standing by waiting to to see how long he is going to stay in prison. The judge has now said the guidelines say it should be anywhere from about six to seven years. Always appreciate you listening to us. We'll hop back on Amy and TJ here. Talk to you soon.

[Dr. J]

I love that you created this system that revolves around you, creating pockets of peace. World Mental Health Day is around the corner. And on my podcast, just heal with Dr. J, I dive into what it really means to care for your mind, body and spirit. From breaking generational patterns to building emotional capacity.

[Simone Boyce]

I'm going to walk away feeling like.

[TJ]

Yes, I'm going to continue my healing journey.

[Dr. J]

Listen to just heal with Dr. J from the Black Effect Podcast Network on the I Heart Radio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Dr. Leslie]

Do you want to hear the secrets of psychopaths, murderers, sex offenders? In this episode, I offer tips from them. I'm Dr. Leslie, forensic psychologist. This is a podcast where I cut through the noise. Real talk.

[Friend of Dr. Leslie]

When you were described to me as a forensic psychologist, I was like, snooze. We ended up talking for hours and I was like, this girl is my best friend.

[Dr. Leslie]

Let's talk about safety and strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones. Listen to Intentionally disturbing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Danielle Robaix]

Just like great shoes, great books take you places through unforgettable love stories and into conversations with characters you'll never forget.

[Ebony]

I think any good romance, it gives me this feeling like butterflies.

[Danielle Robaix]

I'm Danielle Robaix and this is Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club, the new podcast from hello Sunshine and I Heart Podcasts where we dive into the stories that shape us on the page and off. Each week I'm joined by authors, celebs, book talk stars and more for conversations that will make you laugh, cry and add way too many books to your TBR pile. Listen to Bookmarked by Reese's Book club on the iHeartRadio app. Apple Podcasts are wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Books is the official audiobook and ebook home for Reese's Book Club. Visit Apple Co ReeseAppleBooks to find out more.

[Ebony]

Welcome to Pretty Private with Ebony, the podcast where silence is broken and stories are set free. I'm Ebony and every Tuesday I'll be sharing all new anonymous stories that would challenge your perceptions of and give you new insight on the people around you. Every Tuesday, make sure you listen to Pretty Private from the Black Effect Podcast Network. Tune in on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

[Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford]

I'm Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford, host of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast. I know how overwhelming it can feel if flying makes you anxious. In session 418 of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast, Dr. Angela Neal Barnett and I discuss flight anxiety.

[Ebony]

What is not normal is to allow it to prevent you from doing the things that you want to do, the things that you were meant to do.

[Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford]

Listen to Therapy for Black Girls on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Simone Boyce]

This is an iHeart podcast.