Podcast Summary: Grits and Eggs Podcast – Episode 77: "United in Grief"

Release Date: July 22, 2025
Host: Deontay Kyle
Co-Host: Bartholomew ("Big Ice Cup Cat")
Guest: Stephen Dingle
Description: Deontay Kyle delivers raw and unfiltered conversations on pop culture, current events, conspiracies, and more.

Introduction

In Episode 77, titled "United in Grief," Deontay Kyle and his co-host Bartholomew ("Big Ice Cup Cat") delve deep into the pervasive state of grief within the Black community. The episode intertwines personal anecdotes, societal observations, and listener interactions to explore how collective and individual grief shapes experiences and behaviors.

The State of Grief in Black Communities

Understanding Grief:
Deontay Kyle initiates the conversation by discussing the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—and how these stages are perpetually cycled through within the Black community. He emphasizes that the continuous exposure to systemic injustices, such as overt fascism, racism, and environmental racism, keeps individuals in a constant state of grief.

"We are united in grief, and sometimes we don't have any time to think... When we're hit with information, like the stances that I may take about things, the perspective shifting that we're doing, educated people stepping up and speaking their piece and giving you a new and a fresh perspective on things may be a little frustrating to you because you haven't had time to think, you haven't had time to process."
— Deontay Kyle [38:00]

Impact of Systemic Issues:
The hosts discuss how late-stage capitalism and policies driven by those in power exacerbate these feelings of helplessness and grief. They argue that the relentless pressure on marginalized communities to strive for economic stability without addressing underlying systemic issues only deepens the collective trauma.

"When you're in a state of grief, you're always on the defense, you're always reacting. It's very hard to have time to be proactive while meanwhile they're always on the offense."
— Deontay Kyle [10:00]

Hip Hop and Cultural Impact

Reviewing Clips' Album:
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing the latest album drop by the hip-hop group Clips. Deontay and his co-host commend the album’s quality, emphasizing its internal and external rhyme schemes and the meaningful collaboration between Pusha T and Malice.

"He got big bro with him, like, in a real way. Not just a nigga that got money that you trying to look up to his actual big brother."
— Deontay Kyle [25:30]

OGs vs. New Generation:
The discussion contrasts the authenticity and depth of older hip-hop artists with the perceived superficiality of newer acts. They lament the shift towards performative elements and the loss of meaningful storytelling that characterized earlier eras.

"You gotta be street smart, you gotta be intelligent, you gotta have a little spiritual aspect."
— Deontay Kyle [23:50]

Community Support and Creativity

Encouraging Black Creativity:
The hosts stress the importance of creativity as a coping mechanism against the pervasive state of grief. They advocate for Black individuals to engage in creative endeavors not only for personal healing but also to challenge and reshape societal narratives.

"Black people have always been extremely creative. Historically, before America, before any of this, we were creating, and we're going to continue to create."
— Deontay Kyle [85:53]

Listener Contributions:
Listeners share their experiences and seek advice on personal and professional challenges. The hosts provide candid and sometimes blunt responses, aiming to guide listeners towards self-acceptance and proactive problem-solving.

Listener Voicemails and Stories

Voicemail 1: Career Advice for a Truck Driver (J Squared)
J Squared, a 22-year-old truck driver, expresses feelings of isolation and monotony due to night shifts. He contemplates transitioning to a trade such as electrician or welding but seeks guidance on balancing career aspirations with personal fulfillment.

"I just want to have the time to kind of do shit. I'm trying to get on today, but these motherfuckers on dick, man."
— J Squared [73:18]

Hosts' Response:
Deontay advises J Squared to plan meticulously, suggesting stacking savings before transitioning careers and emphasizing the importance of having a broader life perspective beyond immediate job frustrations.

"Make a plan. Live low. Give yourself a year... Find the best one for you."
— Deontay Kyle [74:56]

Voicemail 2: Relationship Struggles of a Bisexual Man
A 23-year-old bisexual man discusses the end of a three-year relationship exacerbated by his fear of embracing his true identity, leading to infidelity and emotional turmoil.

"I was caught talking on the Grindr app a couple times. But she forgave me and told me she didn't care and accepted me..."
— Caller [73:18]

Hosts' Response:
Deontay and Bartholomew provide a no-nonsense approach, encouraging honesty and self-awareness. They emphasize the need for personal growth and the importance of ending toxic relationships for mutual healing.

"You have to be honest about who you are, regardless of what I mean..."
— Deontay Kyle [85:57]

Voicemail 3: Navigating Career and Parenthood
A 29-year-old medical assistant grapples with balancing a burgeoning career that requires frequent travel with his responsibilities as a new parent, leading to marital strain.

"We have a village steps in to help when we need it. He feels like I shouldn't be gone as long or as often because I have a kid now."
— Caller [86:00]

Hosts' Response:
The hosts advise setting clear goals and boundaries, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing family without sacrificing career ambitions. They advocate for open communication and strategic planning to navigate the complexities of dual responsibilities.

"You got a lot of life to live. And without the responsibilities and with your youth on your side, I would say make sure you're taking care of your health while you out there on that road."
— Deontay Kyle [78:00]

Conclusion

Episode 77 of the Grits and Eggs Podcast offers a profound exploration of the enduring grief within the Black community, underscored by personal narratives and societal critiques. Deontay Kyle and his co-host Bartholomew effectively blend introspective dialogue with actionable advice, fostering a space for listeners to reflect on their experiences and challenges. Through candid discussions and listener engagement, the episode underscores the importance of community support, creative expression, and honest communication in overcoming collective and individual grief.

Notable Quotes:

• "We are united in grief, and sometimes we don't have any time to think." — Deontay Kyle [38:00]
• "Black people have always been extremely creative." — Deontay Kyle [85:53]
• "You have to be honest about who you are." — Deontay Kyle [85:57]

Key Topics Covered:

• The perpetual state of grief in Black communities
• Analysis of contemporary hip-hop and cultural shifts
• The role of creativity in personal and communal healing
• Listener stories on career transitions, relationship struggles, and balancing parenthood with professional life

Takeaways:

• Understanding and addressing the stages of grief can empower individuals and communities to navigate systemic challenges.
• Authenticity and meaningful engagement in creative pursuits are vital for personal growth and societal change.
• Open and honest communication is essential in overcoming personal and relational adversities.

Follow the Grits and Eggs Podcast:

• Website: deontaykyle.com
• Instagram: GristenxPodcast
• Patreon: Grits and Eggs Podcast
• Call-In Number: 657-234-3447
• Music Submissions: deontaykyle.com/music

Stay connected and join the conversation as Deontay and Bartholomew continue to address pressing issues with honesty and accountability.