Podcast Summary: Club Shay Shay - "Humble Baddies - Hour 1"

Episode Overview In this engaging episode of Club Shay Shay, host Alexis Stoudemire, along with co-hosts Portia and Cherelle, delve into the intriguing world of athletes' pre-fight rituals, with a special focus on Claressa Shields' unique practice of abstaining from sex six weeks before a fight. Released on May 20, 2025, the episode blends personal anecdotes, cultural discussions, and reactions to recent controversies within the sports community.

1. Personal Milestones and Family Updates

The episode kicks off with a heartfelt discussion about recent family milestones. Cherelle shares the joyous news of her second child graduating from high school, highlighting the collective effort and support from extended family members.

• Cherelle: “All these nights of studying and telling him to be studious and clean your room and be on time for school... It takes a team effort in the village.” [04:50]

Portia adds a playful touch by expressing her desire for more graduations, while Alexis shares her own experiences balancing family commitments with her professional life.

• Portia: “My driveway is like a parking lot. It’s lit over here.” [06:35]

2. Athletes' Pre-Fight Rituals: The Case of Claressa Shields

The conversation shifts to the main topic: Claressa Shields' six-week no-sex rule before fights. The hosts explore the rationale behind such rituals, debating their impact on performance and mental preparedness.

• Host (Alexis Stoudemire): “Clarissa Shields... she doesn't have sex for six weeks before a fight. Not for superstitious reasons, but because, and I quote, I release it in the ring.” [12:17]

Portia and Cherelle discuss the psychological and physiological implications, noting how these practices can vary widely among athletes.

• Portia: “There are some fighters who throughout camp, they will have sex and it doesn't affect them... Others are very strict about it.” [12:45]

• Cherelle: “It’s about the discipline of being an athlete. You know what my body needs, and if I wanna be the best...” [18:22]

3. Comparative Analysis of Rituals Across Sports

The hosts broaden the discussion by comparing Shields' rituals with those of other athletes, highlighting the diversity in preparation methods.

• Alexis Stoudemire: “Serena Williams bounces the ball exactly five times before her first serve... Weight boxer... Brian Erlacher ate chicken before every game.” [26:23]

Portia humorously remarks on these habits, emphasizing the personal nature of such rituals.

• Portia: “I get it. I did the same thing.” [26:25]

Cherelle adds insights into how these rituals provide comfort and mental stability, especially in high-pressure environments.

• Cherelle: “It’s like a warm hug. They are comfort shows.” [27:44]

4. Controversy Surrounding Boss Mandelo

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the recent allegations against Boss Mandelo, a prominent figure in the hip-hop community. The hosts dissect the situation, discussing the implications of the accusations and the broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ relationships in sports and music.

• Alexis Stoudemire: “When we say the timeline folded like a lawn chair, we mean that some people are out here acting like he caught a felony charge just for who he might have slept with.” [40:27]

Portia and Cherelle explore the cultural stigmas and the challenges faced by Black men in the hip-hop industry regarding openness about their sexuality.

• Portia: “We’re a long ways away from that being something that is embraced in our culture.” [49:42]

• Cherelle: “People have their own preferences... It becomes public when people are screenshotting and running their mouths.” [45:34]

5. Cultural Reflections and Societal Norms

The discussion extends to the broader theme of societal acceptance and the double standards faced by men and women in the public eye, especially within specific cultural contexts.

• Alexis Stoudemire: “Why do men get so much uproar when they are exposed, but for women, it's like, it's okay.” [46:28]

• Cherelle: “In an oversex society... it becomes messier when it becomes public.” [46:43]

The hosts advocate for greater empathy and understanding, questioning the prevailing attitudes and urging for progress towards acceptance.

6. Personal Anecdotes on Athletic Pressure and Rituals

Returning to a lighter tone, the hosts share personal stories about the pressures of sports and the unique rituals they employ to stay focused and perform optimally.

• Alexis Stoudemire: “In ninth grade, I jumped the gun and we lost state... I'm terrified every time I hear about a gun being jumped.” [38:23]

• Cherelle: “Running marathons with playlists... but the energy from the crowd taught me to adapt.” [33:00]

These anecdotes underscore the intense mental and emotional demands placed on athletes, emphasizing the importance of tailored preparation techniques.

7. Concluding Thoughts

The episode wraps up with reflections on the discussed topics, acknowledging the complexity of balancing personal lives with professional demands and societal expectations. The hosts encourage listeners to find what rituals work best for them, promoting self-awareness and mental well-being.

• Cherelle: “This just was a beautiful weekend... it’s good to have the family around and cheer on.” [10:03]

• Portia: “I have comfort shows, bitch. And when I'm stressed, I put on Grey's Anatomy...” [27:53]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Alexis Stoudemire: “I release it in the ring. Period.” [12:17]
• Portia: “I'm not finna hit. Y’all are not about to play with me.” [02:52]
• Cherelle: “We are definitely in an oversex society...” [46:43]
• Portia: “We’re a long ways away from that being something that is embraced in our culture.” [49:42]

Final Thoughts This episode of Club Shay Shay offers a multifaceted exploration of athlete rituals, personal and cultural dynamics, and the challenges of public life in sports and entertainment. Through candid conversations and insightful commentary, Alexis, Portia, and Cherelle provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the interplay between personal discipline, societal norms, and the quest for excellence.