Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – Black Entertainment Exclusive Tea
Episode Title: Black Entertainment Exclusive Tea (Lauren Interviews Kandi Burress, Wallo and Gillie, and Ciara at BET Media Room)
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Breakfast Club, hosted by Lauren LaRosa, listeners are treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the BET Awards' 25th anniversary celebrations. Lauren shares insights from her recent experiences in the BET Media Room, engaging with notable personalities such as Kandi Burruss, Wallo and Gillie, and Ciara. The episode promises rich discussions on pop culture, entertainment news, and personal anecdotes from influential figures in the Black entertainment sphere.
Spotlight on New York La's Rising Music Career
[00:37 - 02:37]
Lauren introduces New York La, Gilly's daughter and an emerging music artist. The conversation delves into New York La's upcoming projects and her journey as a female rap artist in an alternative music space.
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Lauren LaRosa: "I'm your daily dig into all the things right. And all the conversations that shake the room."
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New York La: "I'm working on dropping my debut album in July called Rain on my Parade and I'm dropping a fire single next week with my brother, Hit Maker, called Bad Luck."
[02:14]
Lauren and her guests discuss the challenges and pressures of releasing a debut album compared to individual singles. New York La expresses confidence and enjoyment in the creative process, highlighting her evolution from alternative and R&B influences to her current sound.
- New York La: "I feel like it's really been fun more than anything."
[02:24]
Navigating Journalism and Authenticity with Gilly Wallow
[02:37 - 05:14]
The conversation shifts to Gilly Wallow's approach to journalism. Gilly shares his perspective on maintaining authenticity and strategic communication in the media landscape.
- Gilly Wallow: "I do come from the world of the Internet, and that's why you know what you're doing. I'll be like, yo, she's so fire."
[03:31]
Lauren addresses comments about not taking journalism seriously, prompting Gilly to elaborate on his commitment to strategic social media presence and understanding the importance of focusing on core content over peripheral matters.
- Gilly Wallow: "Sometimes you gotta keep the main thing. The main thing is the one that's really going to take you to the next level."
[05:00]
The discussion underscores the balance between personal branding and professional integrity, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing meaningful content to achieve long-term success.
Kandi Burruss on Broadway Success and Reality TV Controversies
[05:14 - 09:36]
Lauren transitions to an interview with Kandi Burruss, focusing on her accomplishments in Broadway productions and her tenure on The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
- Kandi Burruss: "Let me say thank you to every single person that bought a ticket and helped us break records. Tomorrow is our last show on Broadway."
[06:26]
Kandi reflects on her journey producing successful Broadway shows featuring prominent Black talent, highlighting the significance of representation in the arts.
- Kandi Burruss: "We really started setting records and showing that shows that starred Black actors... could still sell tickets."
[07:12]
The conversation shifts to the recent controversy involving Kenya Moore's departure from Real Housewives of Atlanta. Kandi expresses her confusion and frustration over the mishandling of false photos and the subsequent lawsuit against Bravo.
- Kandi Burruss: "I'm confused, too. I don't know... who came up with that when?"
[08:53]
Kandi emphasizes the importance of accountability and thorough investigation in media practices, questioning the network's ability to protect their talent effectively.
Personal Connections and Russell Wilson's Move to New York
[09:36 - 12:23]
Lauren shares personal interactions with Kelly and Shamia, expressing excitement about potential future collaborations on the podcast.
The discussion then moves to Russell Wilson's recent move to New York to join the Giants, featuring insights from Wallow about the family's adjustment to the new city.
- Wallow: "I love New York, really. The culture, the people, the food. It's amazing."
[10:20]
Wallow describes the positive aspects of New York, including its vibrant culture and culinary delights, and touches upon the couple's efforts to maintain a balanced personal life despite Russell's demanding football career.
- Wallow: "We love our date nights. We love going to the movies. We love just being with each other and having our fun as best friends."
[11:43]
Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events
[12:23 - 14:08]
Lauren wraps up the episode by reflecting on her experiences at the BET Media Room, expressing gratitude to her audience for their support and highlighting the impact of the podcast's reach.
- Lauren LaRosa: "There's always a lot to talk about, and you choose to be right here with me. I appreciate you guys so much."
[13:10]
She promotes the upcoming BET Awards special broadcast, where Jim Jones will perform, and teases exclusive content to be shared on The Latest with Lauren LaRosa.
- Lauren LaRosa: "Make sure you guys tune into the BET Awards going down tonight, June 9th, 8:00pm Eastern Standard Time."
[13:45]
Lauren encourages listeners to continue supporting the podcast as the Lowriders make their mark in the entertainment industry, promising more engaging conversations and exclusive insights in future episodes.
Notable Quotes
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Lauren LaRosa: "I come from TMZ and I come from this journalist background, but I also do come from the world of the Internet."
[04:24] -
Gilly Wallow: "That's family. So as I mentioned in an interview, I don't take anything personal. It's more so of like I understand it's all love."
[05:15] -
Kandi Burruss: "My first one was Thoughts of a Colored Man. And that was when Broadway was first coming back open after the Pandemic."
[07:12] -
Wallow: "Sometimes you gotta keep the main thing. The main thing is the one that's really going to take you to the next level."
[05:00]
Conclusion
This episode of The Breakfast Club offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the latest happenings in Black entertainment. From New York La's musical endeavors and Kandi Burruss's Broadway triumphs to personal insights into Russell Wilson's life in New York, Lauren LaRosa skillfully navigates through diverse topics, providing listeners with valuable perspectives and exclusive content. The inclusion of notable quotes and timestamps enriches the narrative, making it accessible and informative for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.