Black and White Advice: The Final Episode (But The Show Continues)
Hosts: Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett
Release Date: June 10, 2025
1. Transition Announcement
In what marks a significant turning point for the beloved podcast Black and White Advice, hosts Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett announce that this episode will serve as the final installment of the weekly podcast format. However, they reassure their dedicated listeners that the essence of the show will live on through a new live format.
"We are transitioning the show. It is not goodbye. It's see you. It's see you later." [01:45] – Turner Sparks
"We did the live podcast or the live version of this podcast two or three weeks ago, and it was just better." [02:25] – Phil Duckett
2. Rationale Behind the Transition
The decision to sunset the weekly podcast stems from the overwhelmingly positive response to their recent live show. Turner and Phil highlight the superior engagement and immediate interaction that live performances offer compared to the traditional podcast setup. They emphasize the dynamic nature of live shows, where spontaneity and real-time feedback enrich the content.
"It's gonna be in New York City. But listen, here's what we want you to know. We're Going to do these live shows, and then we're gonna clip it and then post it for y' all, like, share those shits." [06:33] – Phil Duckett
"We did the live podcast or the live version of this podcast two or three weeks ago, and it was just better. It was so much better." [02:25] – Turner Sparks
3. Future Plans
Looking ahead, Turner and Phil outline their ambitious plans to expand the show's reach. They intend to establish a monthly live show schedule, primarily based in New York City, with aspirations to tour and participate in comedy festivals. Additionally, they contemplate corporate events, leveraging their platform to facilitate conversations around race in professional settings.
"They get to interact with the people who ask the question because we thought a lot of people are going to go anonymous." [02:49] – Phil Duckett
"We want to get into some festivals and things like that. It's like, I don't want to limit myself to core." [06:53] – Phil Duckett
4. Highlights from the Q&A Session
The core of this final episode centers around a lively Q&A session, where Turner, Phil, and guest Joe Russell delve into various questions submitted by listeners. The discussions are candid, humorous, and sometimes provocative, staying true to the show's mission of addressing all questions on race, even the most challenging ones.
a. Who Makes the Best Fried Chicken: Koreans or Blacks?
One of the standout questions sparks a spirited debate over the culinary prowess of different communities. Phil defends the rich history of Black Southern fried chicken, while acknowledging the growing popularity and unique flavors of Korean fried chicken.
"Korean fried chicken's so good. It is very good. Yeah, it's very good. It's crispy." [17:10] – Phil Duckett
"Korean fried chicken is a spin-off of Southern fried chicken... don't ever fucking play with me." [17:15] – Phil Duckett
b. What Cocktails Do Black People Avoid at All Costs?
The hosts humorously explore the cultural implications of certain cocktail names, touching upon historical contexts and contemporary preferences within the Black community.
"Anything with white people names. Tom Collins. Arnold Palmer's Arnie Peas." [22:14] – Phil Duckett
"I would drink a John Daly. I would drink one. You drink a John Daily." [22:17] – Phil Duckett
c. Explaining the N-Word to a Child
Addressing a more sensitive topic, the hosts provide advice on how to communicate the gravity and historical weight of the N-word to young children. They emphasize education through media such as the film Roots, combined with real-life context to foster understanding and respect.
"Tell them that. Look at where you live. I will drop you off in the projects for a week. If I come back in a week, you're still alive. You can say every day." [33:19] – Phil Duckett
"How do you explain it? Show him the movie Roots." [33:02] – Turner Sparks
d. Socioeconomic Factors Affecting Home Safety Practices
A listener’s inquiry about why some Black individuals might neglect replacing batteries in smoke alarms opens a dialogue on socioeconomic challenges and cultural attitudes towards safety practices. The hosts discuss how financial constraints and communal behaviors influence such decisions.
"Because what are the chances we're actually gonna have a house fire?... no, nobody leave the stove home." [29:44] – Phil Duckett
"But is that also a socioeconomic thing?" [29:30] – Turner Sparks
e. Athletic Performance and Physical Fitness
The discussion veers into the realm of sports, with references to historical athletic figures and the intersection of physical fitness with racial identity. The hosts reflect on how certain athletes defied expectations and stereotypes through their unique approaches to sports and fitness.
"I always think that the most highly skilled athletes of all time are the ones who are wildly out of shape, but could still compete." [24:23] – Turner Sparks
"Hot Plate Williams played for the Harlem Globetrotters... he could smoke cigarettes during halftime." [25:02] – Both Hosts
5. Engaging Listener Interactions
Throughout the Q&A, the inclusion of humor and personal anecdotes keeps the conversation engaging. For instance, Phil shares his experience of performing at a comedy club in the Bronx, highlighting the camaraderie and unique challenges of live performances.
"He was like, he was a comedian. I did a show there... Got paid 250 bucks." [11:44] – Phil Duckett
"And then you have to get back in the regular line, which by now is almost out the door, because it's the Bronx. People love chicken." [09:45] – Turner Sparks
6. Conclusion and Farewell
As the episode draws to a close, Turner and Phil extend heartfelt thanks to their Patreon subscribers and loyal listeners. They reiterate their commitment to the upcoming live shows and express optimism about the show's future direction. The hosts leave their audience with a blend of humor and sincerity, ensuring that the spirit of Black and White Advice will continue to educate and entertain.
"Next time we talk to you guys, it will be an announcement right here for the start of our monthly live show." [37:16] – Turner Sparks
"They're all in the dice? They ain't always nice? But you can't think twice and give it black and white advice?" [37:43] – Phil Duckett
Final Thoughts
Black and White Advice: The Final Episode (But The Show Continues) serves as both a farewell and a gateway to a new chapter for Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett. By embracing the live show format, the hosts aim to deepen their connection with the audience, fostering more interactive and impactful discussions on race and society. This episode encapsulates the essence of their comedic yet insightful approach, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.