BET MEDIA HOUSE: All Power, All Purpose

Summary

Podcast Summary: "BET MEDIA HOUSE: All Power, All Purpose" Keep It Positive, Sweetie with Crystal Renee Hayslett | Released July 7, 2025

Introduction In the compelling episode titled "BET MEDIA HOUSE: All Power, All Purpose," host Crystal Renee Hayslett delves deep into conversations with influential figures present at the 25th BET Awards. The episode embodies the podcast’s mission to foster purposeful, faith-driven, and healing dialogues, ensuring listeners are uplifted, inspired, and empowered.

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1. Angie Martinez: Embracing Positivity and Mental Health

Timestamp: 00:00 - 07:57

Crystal welcomes the iconic Angie Martinez, celebrating her transition from radio host to podcast guest. Angie shares her journey of self-discovery through her podcast, highlighting its therapeutic benefits.

• Therapeutic Growth: Angie remarks, “Doing my podcast, I've learned things about myself. It's almost therapeutic” (02:00).

• Maintaining Positivity: Discussing the challenges of the media industry, Angie emphasizes, “Ultimately being positive and trying to take the high road... just feels Better” (03:35).

• Personal Wellness: Angie introduces her new commitment to Pilates, stating, “I've now become a Pilates girly” (03:35). She underscores the importance of grounding practices to maintain her well-being.

• Mental Health Advocacy: Angie opens up about her struggles, including leaving her sports career due to personal trauma. She shares, “I'm living a double lifestyle... I chose me instead of choosing the world” (07:11), advocating for prioritizing mental health and setting boundaries.

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2. Kaiser: Leadership and Service at BET

Timestamp: 11:03 - 11:54

Kaiser Paige, the heartbeat behind many BET initiatives, joins the conversation to discuss her role and philosophy.

• Spirit of Service: Kaiser explains, “I have a spirit of service... I try to come and center from that” (10:50).

• Community Impact: She emphasizes the importance of leadership rooted in service, fostering support and growth within the community.

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3. Kirk Franklin: Music, Faith, and Family

Timestamp: 08:10 - 27:54

The 20-time Grammy Award-winning Kirk Franklin brings his dynamic energy to the show, discussing his latest achievements and personal growth.

• New Single and Faith: Kirk introduces his new single, “Do It Again,” stating, “If he did it before, he'll do it again” (08:47), reflecting on faith during challenging times.

• Personal Achievements: He shares his induction into the Berklee College of Music Hall of Fame and recent Billboard successes, highlighting the unpredictability of his journey.

• Balancing Fatherhood: Kirk delves into his role as a father, emphasizing the importance of being present and supportive, especially after personal losses. He notes, “I know how it was not to have a father, so I wouldn't be there for my kids” (26:51).

• Professional Growth: Discussing his acting role in "Forever," Kirk praises his co-stars and the enriching experience of working with industry legends.

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4. Shamia Morton: Navigating Reality Television and Personal Growth

Timestamp: 16:40 - 17:57

Shamia Morton reflects on her experience with "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," sharing the highs and lows of reality TV.

• Emotional Rollercoaster: Shamia describes the season as “a wave, such an emotional rollercoaster” (16:40), highlighting the challenges of public perception and personal resilience.

• Personal Growth: She emphasizes the development of thick skin and maintaining positivity despite external criticisms.

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5. Salt (from Salt-N-Pepa): Legacy and Philanthropy in Hip Hop

Timestamp: 28:10 - 29:58

Legendary hip-hop icon Salt celebrates the 35th anniversary of her album "Black Magic" and discusses her ongoing contributions to the community.

• Enduring Legacy: Salt expresses pride in enduring relevance, stating, “We were authentically ourselves, and I feel like that's why we lasted this long” (28:25).

• Philanthropy: She articulates the essence of community, “Being a light for someone... it makes life worth living” (29:08), advocating for active involvement and support within communities.

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6. Michael Cooper Jr.: Acting with Authenticity and Vulnerability

Timestamp: 31:12 - 33:25

Actor Michael Cooper Jr. shares his experience portraying Justin in the Netflix series "Forever," emphasizing authenticity and personal growth.

• Character Development: Michael discusses the depth of his character, saying, “Through that character, I was able to become more vulnerable, more in tune with my feelings” (32:27).

• Cultural Impact: He highlights the show's role in shifting cultural narratives, particularly in portraying authentic family dynamics.

• Collaborative Efforts: Michael expresses gratitude for working with industry veterans, which has enriched his craft and provided invaluable learning experiences.

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7. Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Timestamp: 33:25 - End

Crystal concludes the episode by reflecting on the shared moments and emphasizing the importance of community, healing, and positivity. She announces the upcoming Season 8, encouraging listeners to subscribe and stay connected.

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Notable Quotes:

• Angie Martinez on choosing herself: “I'm going to choose me instead of choosing the world” (07:11).
• Kirk Franklin on faith and resilience: “If he did it before, he'll do it again” (08:47).
• Salt on community: “Being a light for someone... it makes life worth living” (29:08).
• Michael Cooper Jr. on vulnerability: “Through that character, I was able to become more vulnerable, more in tune with my feelings” (32:27).

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Conclusion "BET MEDIA HOUSE: All Power, All Purpose" encapsulates profound discussions on positivity, mental health, faith, community service, and personal growth. Through candid conversations with distinguished guests like Angie Martinez, Kirk Franklin, Salt, and Michael Cooper Jr., Crystal Renee Hayslett fosters an environment of healing and empowerment, staying true to the podcast’s mission to “keep it honest, keep it healing, and always… Keep It Positive, Sweetie.”

Transcript

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Hey, sweeties. I'm so glad you enjoyed BET Media House part one, but there is more. We about to drop part two. There are so many gems dropped and I hope you enjoy it. Kip's family, we are at the BET Media House for the 25th BET Awards and I have with me right now the iconic, the beautiful Angie Martinez. Hey, sweet. What's up, mama? Nothing much. How you feeling? I'm so happy to have you on the couch. Now I get to be on this side. Yes. Last time you was on. On that side, I was in the hot seat. Yes. So you have your podcast in real life with Angie Martinez. What has been something for me because I know for me with doing my podcast, I've learned things about myself. It's almost therapeutic. Yeah, for sure. Yeah. How has it been for you? Because it forces you to frame the way you think about things. Yes. Because you got to have something to say about the thing. So it forces you to be like, how do I really feel about this? Right. As you're talking about it? Yeah, for me too. I talk less about my personal stuff on the radio. Radio is like about, you know, what's trending topics and what artists are doing and music and. But the podcast is like, you know, we're talking about real, real things. Lessons, real, like just light bulbs and ways that we got to the other side of things just with the things we learned in real life. Yeah. And so that requires me to. To be honest about things and so. Yeah, definitely. Yeah. Interest. It's an interesting. It is for sure. Yes. We're all about positivity here. Keep it positive. By the way, I told you already, this, I love the name of this. Thank you. It was funny. I of changed it at one point. Asana was like, no, you cannot. So good. Thank you. I hear the name. I know exactly where I stand. I feel comfortable sitting with you. I know. You know, there's no, like if, if somebody didn't know your. The platform on the pod. That name lets you know, out the gate with the B. Yes. Yes. How have you been able to keep it positive in a. In an industry that has been so negative and chaotic at some times sometimes it's really hard. Yeah. I don't know that my whole career I have always. I definitely have fell victim to like getting hot headed or upset about something or maybe react overly reactive to things, but that never feels good. Yeah. Right. You know what I'm saying? Ultimately being positive and trying to take the high road and, and do right by people and that just feels Better. Yeah. So I just try to do that as much as I can. I love it. Yeah. Sometimes people get under your skin. Yes. Um, but, you know, life is short, man. Yeah. You do bad things, bad things happen. I really believe a karma I have, you know? I believe a God. Yeah. Want to piss him off in any way? Same. Yes, absolutely. Like, I'm one of those people, too. Like, if I were to do something that was not positive. Yeah. And not the right thing to do, I would immediately feel the blowback of that. Definitely. I feel you. I'm the same way. Immediately. I could get sick. I could. Something's gonna happen. I. Immediate blowback. Because I know better. Right. You know what I'm saying? Yeah. Do something I wasn't supposed to do. I. Immediately. It's gonna hit me in the. I'm with you on that. So I just. It's easier to do the right thing. Yeah. No, for sure. What's up, kids? Family? I have someone with me that we all know because she's already been on the sofa. The one, the only, Leigh Vassey. What's up, boo? Hey, girl. Yeah, so I would love to ask you. We always talk about positivity here on Keep it positive. Sweetie, what is one way that you've kept it positive during this season?

[Angie Martinez]

One way I've kept it positive during the season is I've started to work out.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Okay.

[Angie Martinez]

I've now become a Pilates girly.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, my. Pilates is everything, girl. And it's become a big part of, you know, my weekly, you know, day.

[Angie Martinez]

To day things that kind of keep.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Me grounded and, you know, keep me taking care of my temple, you know?

[Angie Martinez]

So that's been a huge addition, you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Know, to my day to day. I love that. I love that. Before you get out of here, I want to play a quick game of this or that.

[Angie Martinez]

Okay, let's do it.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You ready? All right. Pray first or journal first?

[Angie Martinez]

Pray.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Audiobook or paperback?

[Angie Martinez]

Paperback.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Me too. I love the smell of paper. We were just talking about this. I love the smell of paper. It's something about, like, just flipping the pages. Flipping the pages and highlighting.

[Angie Martinez]

Yes.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah. I'm that girl, too. Rise in car in silence. A ride with music blasting. You know, I used to be silenced, but I just got a new car and I love the sound of this speakers. Listen, I gotta listen to the album in the car. You gotta ride to it? Listen. No. Like, anytime I do music, I have to get in the car and see how it feels when I'm riding.

[Angie Martinez]

Yes.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And I gotta blast it as loud as it can go. Right. I love that. Are you the first to arrive or the last to leave? Probably first to arrive and first to leave. Yeah, that's me. I'm like, I'm gonna go in and get there so I can get out. Right, right, right. I love that. All right. Let it slide or we ride it. Dying. I know for me, I ain't letting it slide. So I don't believe in die in the dying at all, actually. Right. I believe in. I know this is a this or that. Right. But it's like, I believe in grace, but I'm not about to die for you. Right. So it's kind of like I'm like somewhere in the middle. Right? Somewhere in the middle. Right. I love it. Positive Patty or Negative Nancy? Positive Patty. I know this one. Yes. Cause we would keep it positive, sweetie. Hello. Oh, my gosh, y'. All. I first laid eyes on this woman on Instagram, was instantly obsessed. Then I got to meet her and get to know her. The beautiful Kaiser. Hi, gorgeous. Hi.

[Angie Martinez]

I'm so excited to be here.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I am so excited. When I saw you coming in, I was like, we gotta get her on the couch.

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

How are you feeling? I'm good.

[Angie Martinez]

You know, this is new territory for me. You know, new people, new environments. But definitely feel like God's placed me here, and to be surrounded around people like you is just more fulfilling.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, y', all. I love that. I love that you have a personal relationship with God. I'm really big on faith, and I'm. I'm really big on talking about it here. On. Keep it positive, sweetie. How has God guided you through, like, even this transition where you're, like, you're embarking on different territories? How has that journey been with Him?

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah, I mean, he's the only reason why I'm on this journey, to be honest. If it were to leave it up to me, Lord knows I would probably be keeping myself one dimensional, being able to see the gifts that he has given me and to utilize Him. I think that's the gift that I am able to give back to Him.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I love it. I love it. And I pray that God continues to blow your mind. You are so deserving, likewise as well. Thank you.

[Angie Martinez]

To see him all on you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you so much. Same, same. I'm really big on mental health, and so are you. And how. Has. I know, like, probably within the past four or five years, mental health has become really big in our community. Whereas we were just kind of trained to, like, push things aside and keep Pushing. How have you been able to find those moments to really deal with your mental health?

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah, I think me making the ultimate decision when I was at the height of my career so young.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

When I was a rookie coming in, you know, I was a top five pick and I had chose to walk away from the game even though I had spent my whole life working up to this moment and it didn't feel what I thought it would be.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Wow.

[Angie Martinez]

Because of all the trauma that I've endured. Things just trying to sweep underneath the rug to go play the games, you know, I had just lost my, my father right before I got drafted in the middle of the season, showed up the next day, kept playing like just things that behind closed doors people didn't know about. And when I saw myself on a billboard and when I would come home, I realized I was living a double lifestyle. And that's when I realized I'm like, okay, I'm going to choose me instead of choosing the world. And this is when I started learning about mental health. Now it is part of like my boundaries. I need my solitude. I need to have time with myself. I need to recharge and check in. Lord knows I'm Leo coated. So I appreciate my alone space. But the better that I am, the better I can be for others around me.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That is so true. That is so. I agree with you wholeheartedly. I am with none other than 20 time Grammy Award winning my brother Kirk Franklin.

[Kirk Franklin]

What's going on, Crystal? That's your theme music.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's it. We're going to keep that sound bite that's going to be at the beginning of season eight.

[Kirk Franklin]

That's going to be horrible. Good to see you, Queen.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You too. Love. How you feeling?

[Kirk Franklin]

Good. I'm good.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Good. It's always good to see you. You always have the best energy. How you feeling today?

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm good. I got up, did my cardio this morning so my anxiety levels are down.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Right, right, right. You have a new single. I feel like, do you live in the studio? Because you stay on top of it. You're always coming out with new music. You're always collaborating. I love it. You got a new single? Yeah. Let's talk. I saw you in the car playing in for Tammy. That was so cute.

[Kirk Franklin]

Thank you. Yes. Called do it Again. And you know, for people to have spiritual amnesia, it's so easy to forget what God did because you come up to another problem and it's like I'm panicking and panic and panicking and someone like God is like, bro, didn't you just see me pull up the last situation?

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

But, you know, our fears won't allow us to hold on to those memories, and so hopefully this song does the job of reminding us.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

That if he did it before, he'll do it again.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

He'll do it again, and he will. That is so good. Because we do get spiritual amnesia. That's real. And we are.

[Kirk Franklin]

Oh, too.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, my goodness. We all do.

[Kirk Franklin]

I do. We all do.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's so good. I love that I'm gonna have to use that, because I know for me, I definitely, like, as soon as something crazy happens, I. My first instinct is to panic. Like, oh, gosh. Not remembering how many times he's brought.

[Kirk Franklin]

You out, and you got a history with him, and we still do it, so. And what's so beautiful, though, is that he don't throw us away because of that.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

He should. Come on, now. He does not.

[Kirk Franklin]

He doesn't.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

He does not. I have with me a woman that is near and dear to my heart. The one and only Ms. Kimberly Paige. How are you doing? So excited for you and to be here. And you look amazing as always. Thank you. You, too. I'm serious. Like, the fashions. You are, like, the epitome of class. No, seriously. Yes. No, you are, like. I just wish I could be as ladylike as you. Oh, please. Because you walk in and just, like, your feet don't touch the ground. Like, it's an inner spirit. I love it. It starts from within. I love it. No, that is amazing. No, you do it very well. Thank you. I'm gonna get there. I'm working on it. I really am. In this stage of my life, I'm working on being more ladylike and exuding my soft girl air and softness. So I'm trying to get there. You're there. But a lot of people do not know that you are literally the heartbeat behind everything that happens at bet. You sow into so many people. A lot of things that you see happening that are big. You're the person that's signing off saying, yes, let's support them. How did you come to be the Kim Page that everyone knows now? You know, I think for me, I've always been. I have a spirit of service. Does that make sense? Yes, I am. And so as I'm thinking about anything, whether it's, you know, work, my family, my friends, my team. Yeah. I try to come and center from that.

[Angie Martinez]

That space of service.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And I think when you're willing to serve, great leaders have to be. Yeah. I Love that. This next guest, y' all have seen him on the kip sofa. He is my friend, my brother. I love him so, so much. He hit me today. He said, asis you at that media house? And I said, yeah. He said, I'm pulling up and he is here. Major, what's happening? How are you, my love?

[Major]

It's so good to see you in your light.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you.

[Major]

You are light. But it's good to see you spotlighted and you have a whole corner. You don't get corners in the media house unless you're doing something.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Somebody else said the I wanna be clear.

[Major]

This is called favor. It's called God said, now is your time and you're showing up and showing up.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I love you. Thank you so much. So let's talk about everything you have going on. I prayed for you. Number one, two weeks in a row. That's right.

[Major]

That's right. That's my new new.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's my new new.

[Major]

And I'm super excited. So I prayed for you. Just went number one on Billboard A Gospel airplay. More specifically, why I Love youe went platinum. And the thing as an independent artist whose mama named a major. The journey is very unpredictable. And oftentimes the things that you expect to happen happen out of order. And it's kind of wild, but out of order from how I planned it.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Major]

You know what they say, Give God your plans and you make him laugh.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Major]

So it's crazy that, you know, years later, I get my first ever number one on Billboard with a song about prayer.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes.

[Major]

And, you know, to talk about that song, Crystal, it came by way of a text message that Chadwick Boseman sent me. He said at 10:45 Eastern Standard Time on April 4, 2020, let's collectively pray for the hope of the world. Because people are drowning in a sea of hopelessness from their mindset on how to heal, how to recover from COVID 19, the civil unrest in the land. And I didn't know that my brother would be passing four months later. But my thing is, if he had the audacity to hope for the world while he was going through his own things, I think I can lock in on that.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah, that's beautiful. But no, I am so proud of you. You have been very open about the ups and downs of this industry and the impact that it had on your life.

[Kirk Franklin]

Absolutely.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And you work so hard and you want to noticed and you want to be awarded for your good works, you know, and like, he's like, you were almost there so many times. And now it's like God is like, yo, you know what I'm saying?

[Major]

You know what it feels like when you've been on this journey of hoping and wishing and believing and sacrificing and giving? And when you're in a season as you are, it's a perpetual rollout. Only a God like our God can plan a rollout like that.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Only.

[Major]

But it's like church said amen.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Y' all heard.

[Major]

Did the church say amen?

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Church said amen.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Major]

Y' all know what I'm talking about. Literally, it has been perpetual. I saw you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Major]

I've had you. I got you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes.

[Major]

All right. Berklee College of Music, my alma mater, just inducted me into the hall of Fame. I got the number ones for two weeks in a row. There's just so many things. Tamron Hall. I do her one, one show. And then she's like, can we bring you back next month? I'm like, yes, yes. And I stayed at the hotel that I knew you. I said, I know what hotel that is. I ain't gonna tell em. We don't know. We'll give our secrets away.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You know, that was my first time staying there. Cause when I usually stay at was, there was some tech conference going on.

[Major]

But that one, that one, it hits different.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, yeah. And they upgraded me to this, like. Oh, you got upgraded? Yeah, I got a little living room and a bedroom section, a little corner thing where you open up the Hudson.

[Major]

You might have had my room, right?

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You like that? Sounds very familiar. That thing was nice. I walked in, I said, this is.

[Kirk Franklin]

This is nice.

[Major]

But it's the fun thing. The beautiful thing is when we take a beat and just let God be God, he shows us that he's the master curator of answered prayers, of blessings, of I see you. I got you. When I say yes, nobody can say no, no. That's what we're living with and that's what we're living in. So I'm excited about it.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I'm so excited for you. You deserve everything. When I say I love you, I truly love you. I'm always rooting for you. You have a heart of gold.

[Major]

Thank you so much. As do you. And I enjoy seeing you win.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you so much. What's up, y', all, kids? Family Day 2 at the BET Media House, and I'm sitting here with my good sis, Shamia Morton. What's up, boo? Hey, best friend. How you, Desi? How you doing? I'm excited to hang out with the Kips family anytime. I Get an invitation to come hang out with y'. All. I am jatting it over. We love you so much. So much. So the last time we talked, you had just gotten your peach. Yes. The season had not dropped yet. So how is that going now on the Real Housewives of Atlanta? Oh, my goodness. When I tell you there have been such high highs and low lows, it's been insane. I mean, I started out, it was amazing. And you know, everybody's like, oh, we love Shamia. And then I was in the hot seat for like three weeks. They're like, oh, she's Forsha's lapdog. She's, you know, all. And I'm like, oh, please, just give me a break, people. Yes. When I say they were giving it to me, but what it. It gave me is thick skin.

[Kirk Franklin]

There you go.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And I was like, you know, it made me like, I gotta stay out the comments. But now I'm back in a good place with our fans. I love it. I love that. Such a wave, such an emotional rollercoaster. We just finished shooting our reunion. Oh, wow. That's always exciting. Which had me with such anxiety. Like, it's the craziest things. Cause you never know what's gonna happen. You never know what's gonna happen. You never know who's gonna come for you. You also have to recap 16, 17 episodes. You have to have an entire year in one day. And it's a very long day. I wanna say it's like a 12 hour shoot. Oh, wow.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's exhausting. It's exhausting. And even leading up to it, it's just emotionally draining. Cause you're like, you live some dark moments on tv, then you have to watch sim. And the second time you see it union is the third time that you relive it. And so it's like reliving something over again. It's overwhelming at times, but I'm so happy I survived it. I survived my first peach on it. Thank you. So when people. I started out the season saying it was sweet 16. Sweet 16. I'm so excited. Sweet 16. And I'm ending the season saying it's a bittersweet 16. You know, it had its bitter moments and it's had its sweet moments, but I would not change any of it. I have no regrets. Good. That's all that matters. It's Krystal Renee Hayslett, and I have with me the legendary salt. Hey. Hey, girl. How are you? I'm great. I'm great. I'm fangirling out inside Because I can't believe you're sitting here. Thank you. Congrats to you on all your things. Thank you. You're doing all the things. I'm loving it. Keeping it positive. Oh, thank you. So my vibe. Keep it positive. That's right. Is allowed. So this is the 35th year anniversary of your album Black Magic. How does that feel? To 35 years. Yeah. You know what we always say, salt and pebble bought fun, fashion, and femininity to hip hop. Sure did. We were authentically ourselves, and I feel like that's why we lasted this long. Also made timeless music. So it feels amazing. Did I think it would be to this level still all these years later? No, so. Because it definitely is. I appreciate it. It's kind of surreal. It is. You know the assault in this Cheryl, right? Like Cheryl. Yeah. I'm like, salty. Killing it out here in these streets. Right. It's amazing. She's amazing. She is amazing. I love that. And you also have some solo music. Can you tell us what you're working on? Yeah, I'm working on some personal music. Just about my journey. Just sharing with the ladies some things that I've been through. Is very personal, kind of testimonial, and also fun. Just expressing myself as an artist still. That's what we. That's amazing. That is what we do. And that's what resonates. And that's what resonates. Yeah. And people want the music. Yes, they do. They want to hear your stories because that's how they connect with you. Yes. Yeah. I love that for you. And I am so excited about the awards. I cannot wait to see you rock the stage. You gonna kill it. And congratulations on everything. It's gonna be a moment. It will be. Yes. You're welcome. Thank you so much. And I have with me none other than the director of Zatima. You may see me on that. He is the writer of the latest season of Sisters. He also has a short film that's gonna be presented at many film festivals, starting with ABFF this coming week. The Old Gray Mayor, starring Deval Ellis, the Crow, and Ty Lepley.

[Kirk Franklin]

Ty Lepley. Charnell Brown.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, my gosh.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yes, yes, yes. People know her as Kimberly Reese from Different World. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

So good. Yeah, yeah. So, so good. So let's get into it. We also have a film coming out soon that we're gonna make together called A Love. We Can Give y'. All that little sneak tip right there. So talk to me.

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm excited.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Tell me what you are Most excited about in this season of your life? I love. Everything has literally skyrocketed.

[Kirk Franklin]

I love a love. Yeah. Because a love is. I know. So the thing is, I've always had to make films with what I had, not what I wanted. So, like, per, you know, like, I, I saw you on Zatima. I saw the things that you do. I, I, I saw what you've done on film. And honestly, some of the things that people you guys get to see aren't the things that. That's not all the shots. So I get the opportunity to see her in a light to where y'. All. It might not make that particular cut, to where she cries. She's happy, she's sad and all of that. And I saw something in her that made me want to bring her into a part. So now I had the opportunity to choose.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

The actress that I want, and we built such a great relationship. This will be the first time that I'm working with somebody, one that I love and I respect, and we get to do this dance. I'm really, really excited to do this because now I can show who Courtney is versus kind of like pulling tooth and nail, trying to make money for this and adjusting. I don't have to adjust.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Right.

[Kirk Franklin]

So, yeah. Now they get to really, really see it. So I'm excited for this, and I'm.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Excited for them to see who Crystal is.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yes.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

As an actor, because I think this will be the first time I'm actually able to, like, really, like, take time and cultivate.

[Kirk Franklin]

Absolutely. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Really build it up.

[Kirk Franklin]

This ain't the crystal that y' all are used to seeing. Just to be very clear, this ain't the same Crystal. So. So. And I guarantee I'm not doing it now because we gonna tell them I'm gonna end up talking about something.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

We're gonna spoil it. You'll talk about later.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Y' all gotta tune into the next episode. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

No, no, it's gonna be great, though. But that's my. That's what I'm excited about this year, you know, for you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And I'm proud of you.

[Kirk Franklin]

Oh, thank you, man.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

So proud of you and everything that you're doing. It seems like we just met a year ago.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You're out of this world.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah. Nah, it's. It's up. And again, like, I. I think I do give a lot of credit to you of shepherding me into what the Tyler Perry universe was going to be like. And all of this shit. Like, this ain't you know. You know what I'm saying? But just hitting me, checking on me, making sure that I'm good. The one thing that you guys need in this industry, especially when you're entering it, is somebody that's a veteran into it, that can tell you what corners to turn, what corners, and who to stay away from. You know what I'm saying? So you've definitely been there for me.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's real. I'm always. Keep it real.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Ain't gonna call you and tell you, hey, this.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

This here.

[Kirk Franklin]

I don't know about this one. I don't know about this one.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You know what I love about you is that you take. You take my advice. Either if you. You can throw it away or you can keep it. But you hear me? Absolutely. Every time.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I want to be better, man.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I want you to be the best. And, like, I'm gonna let you know. Hey, bro. Cause I know what you're capable of. I know who you are.

[Kirk Franklin]

Great friends. Ain't people that just tell you you good at. I don't know about that shit, bro. Like, I don't. I don't know if you should. Yeah. So you know what I'm saying? It's good to have you in my corner always.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I appreciate you. And I have with me none other than LaRussell. What's going on? Yeah. Her. How are you feeling?

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm well. I feel great.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I love talking about ownership. What is the impact of ownership and what does it mean to you?

[Kirk Franklin]

You don't have the ability to fully execute your vision if you don't own it. Cause there's always somebody that could tell you no. And sometimes your vision is just based on how you feel. You don't have data or anything to prove it. It's just like, I want to do this because this is what feels good to me. And it's hard to do that when you don't have control or reign over what you create and what you do. So ownership just. It means a lot because it just allows you to move from your heart.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I love that. I love that. It's your girl, Krystal Renee Hayslett. And right now I have with me Kiki Layne. Kiki. What's up? Beautiful, man.

[Angie Martinez]

I'm so happy to be here.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes. Is this your first BET Award?

[Angie Martinez]

It is.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

It is. How exciting is that?

[Angie Martinez]

It's amazing. I love us. I love celebrating us. So when I can be in that room. Yeah, I'm most happy.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

What has been, like, some of the lessons that you learned during this time.

[Angie Martinez]

You know, the first thing that popped in my head was something that Regina King said to me. It was actually. She was presenting the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Award to me. And I got up on the stage, and she knows me so well. She could tell I was freaking out. And she just said, breathe. Just said, breathe.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Breathe. Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

Cause, you know, we get to going and going and going, and if we forget this, we forget.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah. I was at a retreat, and the lady who was doing, like, our session, she said we live in a world of shallow breathers, and we don't even realize. We don't take deep breaths because we're. Like you said, we're just going, going, going. Yeah. So it's important to just breathe. Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

There. Everything else can grow, but it always starts with your breath.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah. I love that. And I have one of my favorite people. He is so funny. I love him on Instagram. This is my. Actually, we met at a Hawks game. I don't know if you remember. Cause you kind of looked at me.

[Kirk Franklin]

Like you might know who you are.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Okay. Cause you kind of looked at me like you didn't know who I was. I was like, no.

[Kirk Franklin]

It's like sometimes it's like. It's just.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Just, like, in shock.

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm still in shock to be able to be in rooms with, you know, great people.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I feel you. No, I. I still pinch myself. I was on the plane the other day, and a lady, her daughter recognized me, and she sat next to me. She goes, are you famous? And I'm like, it hasn't really sunk in.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Because it's like, I'm just crystal.

[Kirk Franklin]

You look famous. Like, you can, like. You know, I worked at Popeyes. Imagine you had Popeyes. Like, what's she doing here? That's when, you know, you just look famous. Somebody asked me.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You're so sweet, Marco.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Charming.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah, I use that line on a lot of people. It worked.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

It worked. You are so funny. So what. What brought you to BET this weekend?

[Kirk Franklin]

The airplane. Also, you are stupid.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's why I put the cue card. Dad, I don't even need a car with him. Sorry, dog.

[Kirk Franklin]

But you know what I start to learn that just being in a room with people and leaving energy in moments are more important. You know, when you. When you come in your era and you build your career, sometimes you just think it's about your team setting things up. And also sometimes you think it's about money. But sometimes it's just better to meet people in real Life and just leave moments with them, and you never know who you're running to and, like, start a relationship, and then y' all can start and, you know, and bring something.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

To it and build together from there. Yeah, I love that. I love that. So you have your father as well. Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And you're so beautiful.

[Kirk Franklin]

Thank you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes. Oh, my God. Gorgeous. What is it like balancing your life and then also being a father?

[Kirk Franklin]

Just being there for, like, being something that you never had. Monday dude was like a. He was. He was like, that guy. He was a drug dealer and stuff. So with him being in and out, and when he got, like, when he got killed, it just showed me to be more about for my kids because I knew how it was not to have a father, so I wouldn't be there for my kids. And I'm also a good stepdaddy. So, ladies, if you have any problems with your baby daddy.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I can't.

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm the guy that come to. I be doing matching pictures and stuff. Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh. With the kids outfits and everything.

[Kirk Franklin]

I really don't like when I talk to girls. They got kids. I want their baby daddy to be out the way because I'd be like.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Like, I'm trying to be the daddy. I know that's right.

[Kirk Franklin]

I ain't got time to be fighting nobody.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

No, we too grown for that.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah. Y' all heard here?

[Kirk Franklin]

Yep. No one wants stepdaddy. Yeah. You remember that song Stepdaddy? Yeah. That's it. Yeah, that's it. Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

That's you.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah, that's how it was. I like your flyers, too. I like how you carry yourself, and you very consistent.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you.

[Kirk Franklin]

It's like you just.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I appreciate that. It means a lot coming for you because I really admire your word.

[Kirk Franklin]

Say that about everybody else.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

No, don't.

[Kirk Franklin]

So what if somebody has. Say. What's another answer you'll say if someone said, yeah, say the same thing.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you.

[Kirk Franklin]

Oh, okay. Okay. That's cute. All right. Good pr. Yeah, she clocked. Oh, wow. Okay.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you. Is he it? And I have with me one of my favorite people growing up, y'. All. I. I just love her. When I saw her, I was like, we have to interview her. The one and only. Maya. How are you? Hey, lady.

[Angie Martinez]

How are you?

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Good. Like, you literally have not aged. Thank you. You have not. We have all aged in many ways gracefully, honey. So what is it like to continue to work on your craft?

[Angie Martinez]

I love touring. You know, I stay on the road. I'm an independent artist. I've been just Producing a lot of projects since the end of 2007 independently.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Wow.

[Angie Martinez]

Through my own label.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

And it's been a wonderful educational journey.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I bet.

[Angie Martinez]

And also empowering and then creatively very fun. So Give it to you comes out June 10, and it is basically a nod and a salute to all the music that I grew up to in my living room. It feels like my living room when I was a kid.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, I love that.

[Angie Martinez]

The funk of the 80s, the late 70s vibe, Prince, Jam and Lewis, the Time, Mary Jane Girls, Patrice Rushing. All that and barbecue music. We're hitting the summer very soon, so it's a summer record. Roller skates, block parties.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes. Oh, me that, me that. You are also big on philanthropy. What does community mean to you? What does it mean to give back? Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

Well, community to me means a reflection of self. You know, we all had someone to hold our hand. We all came into this world pretty much incapacitated, without the ability to even hold our heads up. Then we crawl, and then we stand, and then we walk, and then we run. And so to be that light for someone, or at least involve yourself, it makes life worth living. And then it's very rewarding to be able to affect someone's life for the positive and elevate, because everyone has a purpose, each and every one of us. And the simplest thing is your gift.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

It's so true.

[Angie Martinez]

And we have many of those things. So we all come from a place of needing community. And it's also culturally a part of us that sometimes society interferes with. And that's the most functional part of life. When you are aligned with your community or you create that for others and be a light in this world that goes so far beyond what you could even imagine. For sure, just a conversation can change somebody's trajectory.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

No. So that's what this podcast. Keep it positive. Keep it positive, Sweetie has been about. And, like, I didn't want to do it at first because I'm private, and I was like. But in order to do it, you kind of have to open up about who you really are.

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And just talking about it has built a community of healing and growth. It's just been beautiful. So you are absolutely spot on with that. Yeah. Yeah. Kids, family. You guys have seen this next guest. You have binge watch his new show on Netflix forever. The one and Only Michael Cooper Jr. How are you doing?

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm good.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I'm good. Thanks for having me.

[Kirk Franklin]

I'm grateful.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Thank you. Like, I literally lit up when you walked up. I read the name. I Was like, oh, my God. I looked up and you were there. Let me just. I'm gonna give you your flowers right now. You were absolutely phenomenal in Forever. The way you captured your character, Justin, it just. I don't know, it was something about you. The way you just. He has a form of adhd, right?

[Kirk Franklin]

Adhd, yes.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

The way you embody that. Thank you. Oh, my God. And it was so subtle.

[Kirk Franklin]

Thank you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

But, like, you could. Oh, it was so good.

[Kirk Franklin]

Thank you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes. From one actor to another, I was like, he really did the character breakdown and really figured out how to develop his character.

[Kirk Franklin]

Yeah.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

You did it so well.

[Kirk Franklin]

Thank you. Thank you.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah. So talk about, like, I want to know, like, what was that process of bringing Justin to life? Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

I mean, it really starts with the writing. So when I got the script, you know, Mar is very specific with her writing, which is so beautiful.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes.

[Kirk Franklin]

And I just remember reading it. He has one foot in confidence, the other foot in insecurity. You know, he goes to a speech therapist and he has adhd. All these different things that I thought, you know, I've never seen a guy like Justin on my TV screen before.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

No. No.

[Kirk Franklin]

And so I thought it was a challenge to step into and ultimately a gift. He's such a vulnerable dude.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yeah.

[Kirk Franklin]

And through that character, I was able to be able to become more vulnerable, more in tune with my feelings. So it's a gift I'm grateful for.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

I love that. I love that you guys have shifted the culture with this show. It's something that we needed to see. The family dynamic that you guys have shown on the show with your mom and dad. Oh, my gosh. Shout out Woody and Oh, my God.

[Kirk Franklin]

Best TV dad. Best TV mom.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Your mom. Oh, my God. I absolutely love Karen. She's phenomenal.

[Kirk Franklin]

Beast.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Oh, my goodness.

[Kirk Franklin]

Beast.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

And it's. How lucky are you to work besides two icons, like, they are phenomenal. Like, I'm sure you're, like, soaking so much up on set.

[Kirk Franklin]

From Regina King to Mara Rocker, Kill to Anthony Hemingway, Garrett Pittman, Wood Harris, Lovey Nile, because I grew up watching even Lovey and Nile. So it's just to work with these people who I've seen on my screen for so long, it's like, what is going on? You know? But again, blessing. Blessing.

[Krystal Renee Hayslett]

Yes. What a blessing. Love that, sweeties. I hope you guys enjoy these moments just as much as I did, cuz I sure enjoy sharing them with you. Well, you had to wait no longer. Season 8 is coming up next week. I know y' all have been waiting patiently, and I appreciate it. So make sure you tell a friend to tell a friend. Subscribe. And make sure you turn those notifications because you do not want to miss it. I'll see y' all next week.