Grits and Eggs Podcast - Episode 59: Bet On Y(Our)Self

Release Date: April 1, 2025
Host: Deante’ Kyle & Co-host: Big Ice Cup Cat

1. Introduction to "Bet On Y(Our)Self"

In Episode 59 of the Grits and Eggs Podcast, hosted by Deante’ Kyle and Big Ice Cup Cat, the duo delves deep into the theme of "Bet On Y(Our)Self", emphasizing the importance of self-reliance, especially within the Black community. Skipping past the initial advertisements and musical intros, Deante’ and Big Ice engage in candid conversations about personal empowerment, community support, and the significance of economic independence.

2. Betting on Yourself: Empowering Black Creators

The conversation kicks off with the hosts highlighting the struggles and triumphs of Black creators who have chosen to bet on themselves rather than rely on traditional networks. Big Ice Cup Cat shares insights on Ryan Davis, a comedian who self-released his comedy special on Patreon, bypassing major platforms like Netflix. He states:

“But he bet on himself. He put it out. I'm hoping that it's getting a good reception.” [(06:00)]

Similarly, Ali Sadiq and My Two Sons are commended for their authentic storytelling and dedication to maintaining creative control, reinforcing the podcast's message that self-investment can lead to sustainable success within the community.

3. Economic Empowerment: The Power of the Black Dollar

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing economic strategies within the Black community, particularly the boycott of large corporations like Target. The hosts argue that by withholding financial support, the community can pressure these companies to either genuinely support Black-owned businesses or cease their pandering tactics.

Big Ice Cup Cat emphasizes:

“Our money is pivotal to the bet that we're placing on ourselves.” [(17:00)]

He critiques Target’s superficial support during events like Juneteenth or Black History Month, suggesting that despite $12 million spent daily by Black customers, Target fails to translate this into meaningful, long-term support for Black enterprises.

4. Community Building: The Role of Youth Sports

Responding to a listener’s inquiry, the hosts discuss the decline of youth sports due to rising costs and propose the creation of a non-profit organization to make sports more accessible. Deante’ Kyle shares personal anecdotes about his son’s experience in community-based sports programs, highlighting how accessible sports can foster social development and community cohesion.

Big Ice Cup Cat reflects:

“Team sports are extremely important to, like, social development and things like that.” [(60:25)]

He underscores the value of sports in teaching life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and discipline, advocating for increased support to ensure all children, regardless of economic background, can participate.

5. Advice Segment: Navigating Relationship Challenges

The episode features an advice segment where a listener shares her experience with a recent breakup after concealing an unexpected pregnancy from her boyfriend. The hosts provide heartfelt guidance, encouraging her to focus on personal growth and self-care.

Big Ice Cup Cat advises:

“You're just going through a breakup. Like that's all that really is.” [(52:12)]

He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, healing, and building self-worth before considering new relationships, reinforcing the episode’s central theme of self-betting and personal empowerment.

6. Movie Review: "The Woman in the Yard"

In a notable shift, the hosts review "The Woman in the Yard," a Black horror film produced by Blumhouse and directed by Ryan Coogler. Deante’ Kyle and Big Ice Cup Cat critique the film's handling of sensitive themes like depression and suicide, expressing disappointment in its abrupt resolution.

Big Ice Cup Cat critiques:

“It should have just knocked herself off. That would have been. It's a film. I'm not Saying they support it.” [(41:18)]

The review highlights the film's potential to address mental health issues more thoughtfully, advocating for narratives that resonate authentically with the Black experience.

7. Current Events: Honoring Young Scooter and Mo3

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts pay tribute to the late rappers Young Scooter and Mo3, discussing the tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths. They reflect on the vulnerabilities faced by artists in the rap industry and the broader implications of street politics and violence within the community.

Big Ice Cup Cat mournfully states:

“Rest in peace, Young Scooter. Also rest in peace, Mo3.” [(67:43)]

The hosts express concern over the recurring pattern of violence affecting Black artists, urging for increased support and protection within the community.

8. Conclusion and Final Remarks

Wrapping up the episode, Deante’ Kyle and Big Ice Cup Cat reiterate the importance of betting on oneself, building community, and supporting Black-owned businesses and creators. They encourage listeners to contribute to their Patreon for continued support and to stay engaged with the podcast’s mission of fostering empowerment and resilience within the Black community.

Deante’ Kyle concludes with a heartfelt message:

“Bet on yourselves, trust yourselves, love yourselves, love each other, and make your home a sanctuary.” [(53:44)]

The episode underscores the persistent theme of self-reliance and collective upliftment, urging listeners to take actionable steps toward personal and communal growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(06:00)]: “But he bet on himself. He put it out. I'm hoping that it's getting a good reception.”

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(17:00)]: “Our money is pivotal to the bet that we're placing on ourselves.”

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(60:25)]: “Team sports are extremely important to, like, social development and things like that.”

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(52:12)]: “You're just going through a breakup. Like that's all that really is.”

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(41:18)]: “It should have just knocked herself off. That would have been. It's a film. I'm not Saying they support it.”

• Big Ice Cup Cat [(67:43)]: “Rest in peace, Young Scooter. Also rest in peace, Mo3.”

• Deante’ Kyle [(53:44)]: “Bet on yourselves, trust yourselves, love yourselves, love each other, and make your home a sanctuary.”

Conclusion

Episode 59 of the Grits and Eggs Podcast masterfully interweaves discussions on self-empowerment, economic strategies, community building, and current events, all under the banner of betting on oneself. Through engaging dialogue, personal anecdotes, and listener interactions, Deante’ Kyle and Big Ice Cup Cat provide a compelling narrative that encourages the Black community to invest in themselves and support one another for collective advancement.