Grits and Eggs Podcast - Episode 53: Fear Itself

Release Date: March 3, 2025

Host: Deante’ Kyle
Co-Host: Tanisha

1. Podcast Business Updates

Deantay Kyle and Tanisha kick off the episode by discussing the podcast's growth and upcoming plans. They emphasize the increasing interest in bookings, hinting at potential appearances in cities like Dallas, Charlotte, and Chicago. The hosts also announce new merchandise, including coloring books and Ramadan-themed items, with proceeds aimed at community support rather than personal profit.

• Deantay Kyle [00:59]: "We're getting a little bit more inquiries about getting booked..."
• Tanisha [01:25]: "Summer tour."

They highlight the success of their Patreon, which has grown to 400 supporters, with a goal of reaching 1,000 to unlock additional features like removing the "truck" (likely a metaphor for achieving greater independence or growth).

• Big Ice Cup Cat [02:12]: "The Patreon has grown to 400. The goal is a thousand. A thousand gets me out the truck."

2. Recent Events and Experiences

The hosts recount their experience at Jasmine's mixer, describing it as a vibrant and enjoyable event. They share anecdotes about the atmosphere, including unique offerings like THC-infused toast and their interactions with other attendees, including a US Marshal.

• Tanisha [05:41]: "Jasmine's mixer was lit."
• Big Ice Cup Cat [08:16]: "Shorty had the toast with the weed in it."

3. Main Discussion: The Death of Caleb Wilson and Fraternity Rituals

A significant portion of the episode centers around the tragic death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old Southern University student, during an allegedly harmful fraternity ritual. The incident raises concerns about the dangerous practices within fraternities and the systemic issues contributing to such tragedies.

• Big Ice Cup Cat [10:44]: "20 year old Caleb Wilson dies during an alleged fraternity ritual..."
• Big Ice Cup Cat [12:08]: "A potential mechanical engineer... what are you really requiring for a fraternity?"

Tanisha shares her personal experience with the pledging process, highlighting the intense and often harmful expectations placed on members. Both hosts critique the abuse of power within fraternities, emphasizing the need for reform and greater accountability.

• Tanisha [12:55]: "I was the first person in my family to go to college..."
• Big Ice Cup Cat [15:28]: "These are college students being assaulted or anything. They shouldn't be a part of it."

4. Media Representation and Systemic Issues

The discussion shifts to the portrayal of Black individuals in media and the broader societal impact of such representations. The hosts critique movements like the natural hair movement and the rise of platforms like the Shade Room, arguing that these influence perceptions negatively and perpetuate divisive stereotypes.

• Big Ice Cup Cat [28:12]: "The true love is our black love is the revolution."
• Tanisha [55:00]: "They popped up with a million followers."

They delve into historical events like the Dust Bowl, drawing parallels to modern systemic challenges, and stress the importance of unity and self-love within the Black community to combat these issues.

• Big Ice Cup Cat [30:26]: "This is a deep psychological war."
• Tanisha [35:07]: "Look at the clips."

5. Caller Advice Segment

The episode features two callers seeking advice:

1. Caller 1: Aspires to see Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole collaborate and wishes for Alchemist to produce a track with Saha and Sauce Walker.

   • Big Ice Cup Cat [62:37]: "I would love to see Alchemist produce a song with Saha and Sauce Walker."

2. Caller 2: A teacher assistant facing challenges in a predominantly white school district with Black students. She seeks guidance on advocating for her students and managing a tumultuous work environment.

   • Caller 2 [64:43]: "I'm just noticing a difference in how the black kids are treated than white kids..."

   Tanisha advises her to be a vocal advocate and a positive role model, while Big Ice Cup Cat suggests practical solutions like organizing transportation support to alleviate her burdens.

   • Tanisha [68:01]: "Be the voice for the black kids... Just be there."
   • Big Ice Cup Cat [73:04]: "If somebody out there wanted to do something, we can help with transportation."

6. Closing Remarks

In the latter part of the episode, Deante’ Kyle and Tanisha tackle personal stories from listeners, including issues like hoarding and marital challenges. They provide empathetic advice, emphasizing the importance of mental health support and prioritizing family well-being.

• Big Ice Cup Cat [80:20]: "How can we get these men to unpack and deal with their issues?"
• Tanisha [86:17]: "Apologize to your wife, man."

They conclude by reinforcing the podcast's mission to address real issues within the Black community, advocating for love, unity, and systemic change.

• Big Ice Cup Cat [86:17]: "We need to do better with that."
• Tanisha [86:18]: "Yeah."

Key Takeaways

• Fraternity Reform: The tragic death of Caleb Wilson underscores the need for stricter regulations and accountability within fraternity organizations to prevent such incidents.

• Media Influence: The podcast critiques how media platforms and movements can negatively shape perceptions of the Black community, advocating for positive representation.

• Community Support: Emphasis on supporting one another through mental health challenges, advocating for Black students, and fostering unity within the community.

• Advocacy and Representation: Encouraging Black individuals in professional environments to be vocal advocates and role models for the younger generation.

Notable Quotes:

• Big Ice Cup Cat [20:09]: "But why is your ass out and you stepping?"

• Tanisha [30:26]: "Let's keep it being too. Why every time go to Hazen, we got to get involved in some gay."

• Big Ice Cup Cat [38:39]: "Negative talk gonna get you blocked every time."

• Tanisha [70:08]: "That's all you got to do, really. Just be there."

• Big Ice Cup Cat [85:53]: "You're gonna have a beautiful, healthy daughter. Y'all had the vision. Things changed."

For more insights and discussions on pop culture, current events, and societal issues, tune into the Grits and Eggs Podcast.