Podcast Summary: "Black People Don't Need Sunblock (with Zainab Johnson)"

Episode Information

• Title: Black People Don't Need Sunblock
• Host: Big Money Players Network and iHeartPodcasts
• Hosts: Langston Kerman and David Borey
• Guest: Zainab Johnson
• Release Date: February 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of My Mama Told Me, comedians Langston Kerman and David Borey delve into the controversial statement, "Black People Don't Need Sunblock," featuring guest comedian and actress Zainab Johnson. The trio navigates through scientific misconceptions, representation in media studies, and the broader implications of such conspiracy theories on the Black community.

Discussion on The Black Bachelor

Before diving into the main topic, the hosts engage in a spirited conversation about The Bachelor, particularly focusing on the portrayal of Black contestants. They express frustration over perceived stereotypes and the lack of authentic representation.

• Langston Kerman [05:01]: "We certainly weren't the [Black contestants]"

• Zainab Johnson [07:25]: "She was like, if he would have just... Nah."

The hosts criticize the show for creating unrealistic and homogenized portrayals of Black individuals, suggesting that it undermines Black identity by pushing contestants into AI-generated stereotypes.

Main Topic: Do Black People Need Sunblock?

The core of the episode revolves around the debate on whether Black individuals require sunblock, challenging common misconceptions and exploring scientific studies' limitations.

1. AI and Public Perception

• Langston Kerman [35:37]: "The AI response is absolutely, we do. Every single black person, they say you."

The hosts highlight how AI-generated responses, like those from Google, assert that Black people should wear sunscreen, relying on studies that may lack adequate representation of darker skin tones.

2. Flaws in Scientific Studies

• Langston Kerman [36:52]: "The New York Times article basically explains that most of the studies around the danger of skin cancer do not actually use black participants or prioritize black participants."

• Zainab Johnson [37:25]: "That doesn't surprise me. That the research would not include because it never does."

They discuss a New York Times article revealing that many studies on sun exposure and skin cancer predominantly feature lighter-skinned individuals. This exclusion skews AI responses and public health recommendations, potentially leading to misinformation within the Black community.

3. Sunscreen vs. Sunblock: Understanding the Difference

The hosts dissect the often-confused terms "sunscreen" and "sunblock," clarifying their distinct functions and implications.

• David Borey [19:01]: "Sunblock actually blocks the UV rays. But sunscreen allows the UV rays to penetrate, but then they get dispersed as some healthy sort of light in your body."

• Langston Kerman [28:53]: "Chemical sunscreens do rub in, but even those still kind of leave a little bit of a film."

They emphasize that while sunscreen allows some UV penetration, sunblock provides a physical barrier against the sun, which is crucial for skin protection regardless of melanin levels.

4. Ingredients and Health Implications

• Langston Kerman [46:36]: "There is evidence that certain sunscreens are actually more harmful to users regardless of race... benzophenone and oxybenzone."

Langston and David explore concerns regarding specific chemicals in sunscreens, such as benzophenone and oxybenzone, which the FDA has flagged for potential toxicity with prolonged use. They debate the balance between sun protection and chemical exposure, especially in products marketed to Black consumers.

5. Societal and Cultural Impacts

The conversation extends to how societal standards and product marketing affect Black individuals' skincare practices.

• Zainab Johnson [25:26]: "They're not worried about me looking crazy out here because they don't give a fuck."

They critique the beauty industry's neglect in formulating sun protection products that cater effectively to darker skin tones without leaving a white residue, which can deter usage despite the health benefits.

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the complexities surrounding skincare for Black individuals, emphasizing the need for more inclusive research and better-formulated products. They encourage listeners to critically assess the information presented by AI and advocate for representation in scientific studies to dispel harmful misconceptions.

• Langston Kerman [55:57]: "We're going to take a break and then we're going to come back with more znab. More My Mama."

The episode concludes with lighthearted banter and promotional segments, maintaining the show's signature humorous tone while underscoring the importance of informed health practices.

Notable Quotes

• Langston Kerman [35:37]: "The AI response is absolutely, we do. Every single black person, they say you."

• Zainab Johnson [37:25]: "That doesn't surprise me. That the research would not include because it never does."

• David Borey [19:01]: "Sunblock actually blocks the UV rays. But sunscreen allows the UV rays to penetrate, but then they get dispersed as some healthy sort of light in your body."

• Langston Kerman [46:36]: "There is evidence that certain sunscreens are actually more harmful to users regardless of race... benzophenone and oxybenzone."

Final Thoughts

Black People Don't Need Sunblock (with Zainab Johnson) challenges listeners to reconsider prevalent beliefs about sun protection within the Black community. Through a blend of humor and critical analysis, Langston Kerman, David Borey, and Zainab Johnson shed light on the intersection of race, science, and media representation, advocating for more inclusive and accurate information dissemination.

Connect with the Hosts and Guest

• Langston Kerman: Follow on social media and attend live shows scheduled through 2025.
• David Borey: Watch his comedy special Hijab on Prime and follow his tours.
• Zainab Johnson: Visit ZainabJohnson.com and follow on social media platforms (excluding TikTok).

Disclaimer

The views expressed in this podcast episode are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Consult medical professionals for personal health advice.