More Than an Actor: Marcus Callender on Writing, Producing & Being a True Creative | Part 2

Summary

---

The Breakfast Club: "More Than an Actor: Marcus Callender on Writing, Producing & Being a True Creative" | Part 2

Date: November 27, 2025
Host: Lauren LaRosa
Guest: Marcus Callender

---

Episode Overview

This episode of "The Breakfast Club" (guest-hosted by Lauren LaRosa for “The Latest with Lauren LaRosa”) continues the conversation with multi-hyphenate creative, Marcus Callender. Known for his roles on "Power" and "Ghost Power Book 2," Marcus discusses his evolution from actor to writer, director, producer, and playwright, focusing on his passion project: the play "Spades." The discussion dives into the inspiration, process, and mission behind "Spades," navigating the industry without traditional representation, and the importance of authentic Black storytelling in contemporary theater.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Turning Setbacks into Opportunities (03:45–07:51)

• Losing Representation During the Writer’s Strike

  • Marcus shares how his agent dropped him due to the 2024 writer's strike.
  • He reflects on how the setback forced him to focus entirely on writing and developing "Spades."
  • Notable quote:

    “It was a blessing in disguise... now I don’t have any reps... so I have no choice but to focus on this.” (05:46 – Marcus Callender)

• Industry Changes and DIY Approach

  • Discussion about the shift in the entertainment industry, with Lauren noting that building a strong, small team (manager, lawyer) can sometimes be more effective than traditional agency routes.

2. The Creative Genesis of "Spades" (07:52–09:46)

• Why Write a Play About Spades?

  • Marcus describes the inspiration: the drama, community, and “watching the game is more interesting than the game” itself.
  • He saw untapped storytelling richness in the game’s cultural role within the Black community.
  • Notable quote:

    “I feel like watching the game is more interesting than the game... There's so much drama.” (07:52 – Marcus Callender)

• Plot Overview

  • The play centers on a group of friends gathering to play Spades in Harlem, with new dynamics introduced by a newcomer to the table.
  • Characters are drawn from real people in Marcus’s life.

3. Authenticity & Representation in Theater (11:09–13:27)

• Commitment to Theater and Black Stories

  • Marcus laments the decline of theater as a Black art form, emphasizing live performance’s irreplaceable energy.
  • Notable quote:

    “Theater is becoming a lost art form in our community... let's take it back to the purest form.” (11:17 – Marcus Callender)

• Creating an Experiential Space

  • Audience engagement is key: “The audience is right there... when they toast, when they cheers, it feels like a family get together.” (13:05–13:27)

4. Character Creation: Grounded in Real Life (17:16–23:54)

• Basing Characters on Real People

  • Each character in "Spades" is inspired by someone Marcus knows—friends, ex-partners, even himself.
  • The lead character, Gil, is an openly gay Black man, something intentionally written to broaden perspectives.
  • Memorable exchange:

    Lauren: “A gay male as the lead of the play... that instantly drew me in...” (18:12)
    Marcus: “He is gay but... he doesn’t consider himself that. To him, he just likes what he likes.” (19:31)

• Challenging Audience Comfort Zones

  • Marcus aims to make theatergoers feel something—even discomfort—believing that’s part of the theatrical experience.
  • “His character may make some people uncomfortable... but that’s what we want when we go to the theater. We want to feel something.” (21:39)

5. The Play’s Cultural Touchstones (25:49–27:32)

• Authenticity in Details (Hennessy, Taylor Port)
  • Discussion on choosing culturally relevant drinks as part of the Spades night atmosphere.
  • "When you pull that Henny out, you know what time it is." (26:14 – Marcus Callender)

6. Community-Building, Legacy & Expansion (27:33–43:09)

• Legacy of Black Theater and Self-Starting

  • Marcus wants "Spades" to give people the experience that made off-Broadway and underground theater magical.
  • He calls for more Black artists to create their own work:

    "We don't have to wait on them... We can make the shit ourselves based off things we do all day long in real life.” (29:05)

• Plans for Touring and Community Engagement

  • Marcus envisions “Spades” in Black cultural hubs across the U.S. (Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans).
  • Each city’s version would be customized, e.g., with local food, music, and social events.

• How to Support “Spades”

  • Attending in-person, spreading the word, and contributing via donations (with info via Instagram @spadestheplay and Posh app).

7. Perseverance and Defining Success (44:09–45:39)

• The Long Game in Creative Careers
  • Marcus shares his gratitude for resilience and following his calling beyond acting.
  • Notable quote:

    “Sometimes you have to put yourself out on front street... You have to bet on yourself because no one’s gonna want it more than you.” (44:56 – Marcus Callender)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Losing His Agent:

  “I knew that had to be cleared away... in order for me to really dive in.” (05:14 – Marcus Callender)

• On the Essence of Theater:

  “Remember when people were excited to see the actor spit on stage?... For me, I want to bring that essence back.” (12:46 – Marcus Callender)

• On Representation:

  “I want people to realize... we don't have to wait on them to make stuff. We can make the shit ourselves.” (29:05 – Marcus Callender)

• On Character Inspiration:

  “The character Corey is based off of an ex of mine, a couple of exes kind of in one.” (23:34 – Marcus Callender)

• On Audience Participation:

  “You get your smoke on, you get your drinks... Everything that you need to have a good time is provided.” (41:32)

• On Perseverance:

  "It's that resilience to keep going no matter what… The test is, can you make it? Are you gonna let so-and-so stop you from making it happen?” (44:21 – Marcus Callender)

---

Important Timestamps

• Agent Dropping & Blessing in Disguise: 04:09–07:51
• "Spades" Inspiration and Plot: 07:52–09:46
• Theatrical Experience & Audience Proximity: 11:09–13:27
• Character Nuance and Real-Life Parallels: 17:16–23:54
• Cultural Specificity (Drinks, Setting): 25:49–27:32
• Vision for Black Theater & Self-Production: 27:33–29:05
• Bringing "Spades" to Other Cities: 37:51–39:50
• How to Support (Ticket Info & Community): 40:05–43:09
• Resilience & Finding Purpose: 44:09–45:39

---

How to See/Support "Spades"

• Instagram: @spadestheplay (All common spelling, ticket link in bio)
• Tickets: Available via Posh app, search “Spades the Play”
• Community Call: Come see the play in NYC, spread the word, donate, and help build the movement for authentic Black theater.

---

Episode Tone & Final Thoughts

The conversation is open, insightful, and authentic, mirroring the energy Marcus seeks to bring back to Black theater—both joyful and unafraid to challenge. There’s palpable pride in the act of self-creation, and an inspiring call for listeners to support independent Black art, bet on themselves, and revive the communal tradition of live theater.

“If you know you have more to offer the world, you have to bet on yourself—no one's gonna want it more than you.” (44:56 – Marcus Callender)

---

For more: Follow Lauren LaRosa (@laurenlarosa), check out “Spades the Play” on Instagram, and don’t miss the next episode of "The Latest with Lauren LaRosa."

Transcript

[Lauren LaRosa]

This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed human everybody needs a break and.

That'S why Diet Coke is the perfect reset.

The crisp, refreshing taste turns any pause, whether it's after work, running errands or kicking back with your crew into you time. It's that signal to slow down, take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. However you choose to recharge, an ice cold Diet Coke makes that break even better.

Make time for a Diet Coke break.

Diet Coke this is my taste. Life gets messy spills, stains and kid chaos. But with anibe, cleaning up is easy. Our sofas are fully machine washable inside and out so you never have to stress about messes again. Made with liquid and stain resistant fabrics, that means fewer stains and more peace of mind. Designed for real life, our sofas feature changeable fabric covers allowing you to refresh your style anytime. Need flexibility? Our modular design lets you rearrange your sofa effortlessly. Perfect for cozy apartments or spacious homes. Plus they're earth friendly and built to last. That's why over 200,000 happy customers have made the switch. Get early access to Black Friday pricing right now. Sofas started just $699. Visit washablesofas.com now and bring home a sofa made for life. That's washablesofas.com offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. It's finally here. Black Friday at ulta Beauty Take 30% off Mac foundations and lip colors. Save $100 on the iconic Dyson Airwrap and starting Tuesday, shop mascaras for $14 and lip colors for $12. Perfect for stocking up. To make it super easy, shop online and pick up in store or or get same day delivery. Head into Ulta Beauty and shop Black Friday deals now through November 29th. Ulta Beauty Gifting happens here. Hey parents. Ready to turn story time into a magical adventure with the story Dream Machine? Colorful lights and sound effects bring everytale to life right before your eyes. Choose from a wide variety of story collections to keep the excitement going. Sold separately and with the Storytime travel case, you can take the fun anywhere vacation, grandma's house, even the backyard. Plus the Story Dreamers plush adds interactive moments your kids will love. Storytime isn't just reading, it's dreaming. Bring storytime to life with the story Dream Machine. Every holiday shopper's got a list, but Ross shoppers? You've got a mission like a gift run that turns into a disco. Snow globe, throw pillows and PJs for the whole family. Dog included at Ross Holiday magic isn't about spending more. It's about giving more for less. Ross, work your magic.

[Marcus Callender]

Let's get to it. Time to do it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I'm the homegirl that knows a little bit about everything.

[Marcus Callender]

And everybody be that exclusive. Know if you don't lie about that.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Right?

Lauren came in hot.

Back on the grind. All right, y', all, we're going to get back into part two. I'm Lauren the Rosa. This is the latest with Lauren the Rosa, which is your daily dig on all things pop culture, entertainment news, and all of the conversations that shake the room. We've been having a conversation with creator, storyteller, actor, director, and writer Marcus Callender. He played Oliver Power Grant, or you may remember him if you've watched Ghost Power Book 2. He played Ray Ray. Y' all remember we lost Reina baby Raina because of Ray Ray. Now tap in as we get into the final part of our conversation about how he stuck it out. Good, bad, ugly. They say the power actors don't get more jobs, but he stuck it out. And now he is bringing spades to play to life on stage here in New York.

[Marcus Callender]

And.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And you guys get an exclusive listen of what the inspiration was. So talk to us about why spades. Like, I know you said you walked into a place one time in L. A, people were playing space. You got to get back to it. But originally, like, why write a play about space? Like, why is that this is, like, your passion project. And also, tell us about, you know, briefly, what. What is the story? What is the logline of the what is the story?

[Marcus Callender]

Okay, before I tell you that, here's another thing, too, for people to know. When I was putting that reading together last year, my agent dropped me. That also happened.

[Lauren LaRosa]

How does. So what happened when you say they robbed you? Like, how? Because I be watching my money. Like, I mean, but I'm also. I mean, I'm not a regular series on a network show or a streaming platform show. So my checks maybe not like yours, but I be. No, I'm in all of it. Like, yo, what's up?

[Marcus Callender]

So while I'm. While I was getting ready to put this reading together, I woke up from a nap, and my agent calls me. I'm thinking, I booked something, because that's the only time they call you. She's like, yeah, you know, unfortunately, we're gonna have to let you go, because due to the writer's track, a lot of things were cut.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. Agents were also being fired, too.

[Marcus Callender]

Ages are being fired. They're, you know, the rosters are getting Smaller. And I was with a big agency, so I, I, I, I knew it was gonna happen. I was like, if I don't book something, they probably gonna drop me.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Marcus Callender]

Which is really fucked up because I just did three seasons of a show where y' all getting that money.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Marcus Callender]

Y' all so quick to drive me, you know, because I'm not working off of a writer's strike. Yeah, that's crazy. But at the same time, I didn't even, I didn't even react crazy. I didn't ask questions. I just said, okay, cool. Because I, I knew it was all a part of the plan, all a part of God's plan, because I knew that that had to be cleared away and in order for me to really dive in, because now I don't have an agent, now I don't have any reps, so I'm not auditioning for anything. So I have no choice but to focus on this.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Right.

[Marcus Callender]

So it was, it was a blessing in disguise. You know what I mean? It's. But it was also my first time not having reps. Well, you said they robbed you.

[Lauren LaRosa]

What? What? Like, what did.

[Marcus Callender]

No, no, no, no. They dropped me.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, dropped you? I just said they robbed you.

[Marcus Callender]

No, no, no, no.

[Lauren LaRosa]

What did they take? Like, where would the. Okay, no, they dropped you. Okay. I mean. Yes. But I also feel like too. And this is just like 2025, Lauren speaking. I feel like unless your agent is like moving mountains for you.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

You can kind of low key figure this shit out with a good manager. Good lawyer. Honestly, just good lawyer manager. If they really with you, with you. But I don't think you need, like, that's where I'm at right now too, as like, talent that is learning to build a team. I'm like, I don't need all these people and all these noises and all these decisions and blah, blah, blah, like splits. No, like, I just need one to two good people. That's like, yo, we out where we got to be, what we got to do. Like, so it was a blessing in disguise. And I think the world and the industry changed where. Yeah, an agent, you know, for you as a playwriter and creator and also talent would be amazing. We're gonna speak that into existence. But you could do it without it.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly. But because, Because I think what it not. I think I know what it allowed me to do was like, really tap into all of these talents that I have.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Marcus Callender]

Because I don't consider myself just an actor. 1. When people ask me what I do, I tell. I'M a storyteller, whether that's acting, directing, writing, you know. So it allowed me to, like, really dive into that and really own it. You know what I mean? Because for a long time it was like, yeah, right. But, you know, but now I'm owning it, you know, say, no. I. I'm a playwright, I'm a writer, I'm a director, I'm a producer, and I'm an actor. I do all of these things, and I think I do it pretty well. So it's like a multi. I'm a multi hyphenate, as they call it. So it gave me all this time to dive in and I fucking. I committed to it. You know what I mean? I put all my money into it because I know, you know, for me, I'm like sitting on this story because it's bigger than the play. So let's get into that.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Marcus Callender]

So what inspired me to write this play? I was learning how to play space at the time with some friends. And what I thought was interesting was I was like, yo, I feel like watching the game is more interesting than the game. Cause it's just so much drama. It's all this other shit. I said, yo, this would be a.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Dope play in anybody house. Anybody. You know what's crazy? I was. I was. Before I left tmz, we were piloting a podcast for me, and now Nick Cannon has me playing spades.

[Marcus Callender]

Okay.

[Lauren LaRosa]

But I said to them, I'm like, we should do it. Like, let's just sit down and play spades with people.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I mean, of course they didn't really understand it. And my co host, shout out to Tawanda, she's still there at tmz. She don't know how to play spades. I don't think she got it either because she's never been at the spades table. But so when I. That the name of your play grabbed me. But also when I saw Nick Cannon doing me playing spades, the sit down conversation, I'm like, this is like genius for any black person to live off of or thrive off of, because it is entertaining just watching and hearing the game.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly. So I'm like, yo, this will make a dope play. And I knew that, you know, I was at the time, I was starting to dab in writing and stuff like that. So I was like, yo, let me start writing this. And as I said, it just kind of poured out of me, the characters. Because all of the characters in the play are based off of people that I know.

[Lauren LaRosa]

So let's talk about the story. So give us the very simple.

[Marcus Callender]

Yes, it's about a group of friends that get together on a Friday night in Harlem to play some spades. But on this particular Friday, things go a little left as they typically go in a spades game. You got the liquor flowing. You got the Wii going. Things kind of go a little left. The main character, we got Gil, whose house they're at. Corey and Andre, These are the core. This is the core friend group. But then Gil invites a new friend to come play who can't play, and she kind of stirs the pot a little bit.

[Lauren LaRosa]

The girl. A Corey is the girl. Okay. So the first time I came to see the play in Dumbo House, I thought that she was Gail Bean.

[Marcus Callender]

It was Gail.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, so it was Gail.

[Marcus Callender]

Gail. Gail was playing Corey.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay. All right. Because then when I came in Harlem, I'm like, wait, that wasn't Gail. Am I tripping? But because they look. They resemble each other.

[Marcus Callender]

They kind of do, actually.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay. So thanks for answering that for me, because I thought I was tripping. I'm like, yo, I had just interviewed Gail for BET talks.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And I'm like, I know Gayle. I've been watching her. And then I come and I'm like, I was.

[Marcus Callender]

You probably interviewed her while she was in rehearsal for.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I did. Which was so crazy. Yeah. Which was so crazy because I didn't. I didn't know. I came to the play because Taylor. Shout out to Taylor made it. Who is our. One of the producers here on the podcast for the Latest with Lauren LaRosa, which is how we met. She just was like, yo, my friend has this play. Come with me. And then. And I told her yes, because I love plays. And then I didn't make it to that. She was like, still. Just go. Like, just pull up. And I was like, okay, cool. So I came, and when I got there and I saw Gail, I was like, oh, shoot. But then when I came to the second time, I'm like, did I not see Gail?

[Marcus Callender]

No. Yeah, Gail. Gail is doing a play right now in la, but I had her for that reading, which was. Which was great because she came in last minute. She came in last minute.

[Lauren LaRosa]

She was reading from the script.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

So that was another stage reading.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you.

[Marcus Callender]

And that's another thing, too. I'm realizing through this process, like, there's a lot of, like, theater things that some people don't know about.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Marcus Callender]

Especially in our communities, particularly. And, you know, that's kind of a part of why I'm doing what I'm doing. Because I feel like theater is becoming a lost art form in our community particularly. I feel like everybody wants to be on tv. Everybody wants, you know, the social media stuff. But it's like, yo, let's take it back to the stage. Let's take it back to the purest form. You know what I mean? Like, for me, all my favorite actors coming up are theater actors.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And I think people, too, don't understand that, like, stage, live, anything, theater, plays, that's where you get instinct from.

[Marcus Callender]

That's where you get your instinct. That's where you learn how to act on stage. But not only is it getting lost in our community, but I think a part of that has to do with the material that's being produced, you know what I mean? I feel like not. Not enough of us are being inspired to say, like, hey, I'm gonna write a play. Yeah, we, you know, everyone's like, yeah, you know, I wrote this movie, I wrote this screenplay. But very rarely are you hearing, no, I wrote this play. You know what I'm saying? And to me, you know, I'm gonna be real. I feel like a lot of plays right now, I'm going to the theater, everything sucks. I'm, like falling asleep. You know what I mean? I'm sitting here for two hours and what. You know what I mean? I want to. I want to have an experience, you know what I mean? That's the whole point of theater. That was what made it different. Going to go see a play as opposed to going to see a movie, right? Because you knew you were going to.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Get an experience in person. Experience.

[Marcus Callender]

Remember when people were excited to see the actor spit on stage? Like, yo, like, I could see the actors spit and like, yo, they. They really in it, you know what I'm saying? So for me, I was like, yo, I want to. I want to bring that essence back. So. So that's a part of what I'm doing with the play. I mean, you were there. Like, the audience is right there, you know what I mean?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Because our actors play to the audience, too. Like when they toast, when they chairs. Which, to be honest with you, if you are at a family get together and spades is going down and they get a little crazy, everybody joining in, everybody. They talking about the renegade and they talking about the. You know what I'm saying? So it felt like that, like, family get together environment, which was great.

[Marcus Callender]

What's up, y'? All? This is big lone from it's up there. Podcast in this powerful episode, we're breaking down the danger of silence and how way too many of us are taught to protect the vibe instead of protecting ourselves. We spend more time researching cars, microphones, sneakers than we will researching on how to protect our bodies and our partners. If you have an honest conversation, one uncomfortable minute can save you a lifetime of regret. The CDC says nearly one in five people carry an STI and most don't even know it. Real Intimate isn't built in the dark, it's built in the disclosure. Condoms testing transparency. Those aren't passion killers, they're peace builders. It's too much risk in our silence. Speak up. You can listen to this special episode of It's Up There podcast with Loom, brought to you by Healthy Sexual from Gilead sciences on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

[Lauren LaRosa]

When the holidays start to feel a.

Bit repetitive, reach for a Sprite Winter.

Spice Cranberry and put your twist on tradition. A bold cranberry and winter spice flavors.

Fusion Sprite Winter Spice Cranberry is a refreshing way to shake things up.

This sip and season, and only for a limited time.

Sprite Obey your thirst.

Life gets messy spills, stains and kid chaos. But with anibe, cleaning up is easy. Our sofas are fully machine washable inside and out so you never have to stress about messes again. Made with liquid and stain resistant fabrics that means fewer stains and more peace of mind. Designed for real life, our sofas feature changeable fabric covers allowing you to refresh your style anytime. Neat flexibility. Our modular design lets you rearrange your sofa effortlessly. Perfect for cozy apartments or spacious homes. Plus they're earth friendly and built to last. That's why over 200,000 happy customers have made the switch. Get early access to Black Friday pricing right now, sofas start at just $699. Visit washablesofas.com now and bring home a sofa made for life. That's washablesofas.com offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. Breaking news everybody. Not everything is terrible. I repeat, not everything is terrible. The ripple effect with Jenna Kim Jo is proof that the Internet, it hasn't ruined humanity entirely. Let me start by saying it's a.

[Marcus Callender]

Great day to be a gray shirt team. Rubicon.

[Lauren LaRosa]

You know, it truly is a team.

[Marcus Callender]

Those folks, myself included, all had one desire, which is helping folks in disaster. Trying to be a little bit of hope in a really, really bad situation.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It's like magic you guys. So put down your doom scroller and pick up your faith in humanity and join me, Jenna, for the ripple Effect. It's a reminder that you can start a ripple that changes everything. You really can.

We give just that nugget of hope helping other people.

For some of our gray shirts, it's.

During a time when they need help. And by helping others, it helps them.

Listen to the ripple effect with Jenna Kim Jones on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Every holiday shopper's got a list. But Ross shoppers, you've got a mission like a gift run that turns into a disco snow globe, throw pillows and PJs for the whole family included. At Ross, holiday magic isn't about spending more. It's about giving more for less. Ross, work your magic.

Question for you. So you say every character in the play reminds you of someone?

[Marcus Callender]

No, it's based off or based off.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Of someone that you know. Right. I thought it was interesting because spades is very synonymous almost. I mean, I don't know if white people. Do white people play spades?

[Marcus Callender]

Sophie, I've met one white person.

[Lauren LaRosa]

No. Okay. You know what space is. Okay. I've never. I just thought about this right now and forming this question. I've never even heard a white person even talk about space.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Never heard of spades in your life. Okay. She just left Atlanta. Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

That's also like.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes. So it's. Oh, girl. Dang. We gotta bring Sophie to the play.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh, absolutely.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It would freak her out. Okay, so, okay, so spades is. It's us. It's a black thing.

[Marcus Callender]

Right.

[Lauren LaRosa]

The lead character, Gil, that you talked about is a gay man in the play. I thought that that was. As a creator and a person that writes. I was like, I don't know, because I didn't make it to the end of the play. I was like, I don't know if he did this on purpose, but that instantly drew me in because I was wondering, what role or what conversations do you want people to leave the play having? Because our community sometimes shies away from anybody in any type of community that, sexuality wise, they don't accept. So a gay male as the lead of the play. He's very openly gay. The first. Not to give the story away, but he's dibbling and dabbling into the DL conversation right off.

[Marcus Callender]

Rip off the rip.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And I'm sexual. Okay. I didn't get to that part.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, okay. So. But. But see, even with. Okay, I did see that part. I didn't think that. Cuz. So in the play, basically, for those who didn't hear the off camera, off camera voice, in the play, there's a point where he's talking about his homegirl's mom. Yeah, but my gay guy friends will compliment you up and down. They don't want you though. But they, the gay men are, you know, they're not. There's so much personality and characteristic there that, those compliments and the way he was talking about her mother, I just thought it was her homeboy just complimenting her mom. Cause she. Fine.

[Marcus Callender]

I mean, the, the nuance of that character is that like, yes, he is gay, but like, he doesn't consider himself that to him, he just likes what he likes. You know what I mean? It just happens to be men all the time, but he just likes what he likes. So for him, it's like, I could pull whoever the fuck I want. I. I want to pull.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Right?

[Marcus Callender]

You know what I'm saying? So that's what also gives his character that, that nuance and, you know, that kind of special energy and it makes his character more specific and not so general.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Marcus Callender]

Know what I mean?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Because, yeah. And he's a very strong, like, person like you, you. He resonates very well. Like, you feel like you know him. You have a friend like him as a straight man writing for his part, though, because that was another thing too. I'm sitting there and I'm like, you nailed this. I'm like, hold on, wait. I didn't know your sexual preference at the time. In talking to you right now, I still don't know fully all of your sexual preferences.

[Marcus Callender]

I'm a straight man. Yes.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay, thanks for clearing that up. But yeah, now I'm sitting here and I'm thinking, I'm like, as a writer, nailing that character the way that you did as far as like, what you wrote for him was so on point as well too.

[Marcus Callender]

And that character is based off of one of my best friends to this day. So, you know, this is somebody I hung out with. So the characters in the play are about 23 years old.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

Fresh out of college, you know, trying to figure it out. So during that time in my life, you know, him and I will hang out pretty much every day in Harlem. The plate where the play takes place is five blocks from the theater.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you.

[Marcus Callender]

So we would hang out all the time and just, you know, all kinds of don't went down. And he's just an interesting person. He actually lives in London now, so. But yeah, he's just this interesting person to me. Like, gay or not, he was just interesting. And I just. And his philosophies were interesting. So, you know, to write. I was able to write that character because I've just spent so much time with him, and I was able to find.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Why was it important for you to make him the main. Like, he is the. The glue to the whole spade.

[Marcus Callender]

I consider that like the ringmaster. Like when you had a circus. Yeah, I consider him the ringmaster because I just. I think. I think he's just. I think he's interesting. You know what I'm saying? I think he. And I. I feel like, you know, he may make some people uncomfortable, which I like. But that's what we want when we go to the theater. We want to feel something.

[Lauren LaRosa]

But that's why I thought it was genius. That literally why I'm like.

[Marcus Callender]

And it's the first thing when people see. The first thing that happens in the play, throws people off.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Like, yes. You know, he is very much okay living his best life.

[Marcus Callender]

You know what I'm saying? He is.

[Lauren LaRosa]

But that's what I'm saying by. Because I swear, the first thing I thought of is like, ooh, the auntie's gonna have a field day with this one when they come. Because they love to play spades. But certain conversations you just not having with your aunties and uncles, if you are black male. Honestly, not even just a male. I have female cousins who are also gay that have had a hard time just explaining things to our family.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly.

[Lauren LaRosa]

You know what I'm saying?

[Marcus Callender]

And I think the beautiful thing about his character is that I. I honestly feel like it for people to come see it who aren't used to, like, maybe hanging out with people in that crowd or whatever. I think it. It kind of gives them a different perspective that could beat you or what that could look like. Because his character's hilarious. He's fucking hilarious. You know what I mean? So to have that and then to have the character Corey, who, you know, is a best friend of his. They grew up in D.C. together, so they have that rapport. And then you got Andre. Andre is, you know, God bless him.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Andre is one of the characters in the play, y'.

[Marcus Callender]

All.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I was sitting there and I'm like, I'm so glad that I met people like Andre when I was 16 and not at 33, because he is just out here just doing what ever comes his way.

[Marcus Callender]

So Andre is based off of me.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, God, Lord, you got yourself together now in my.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah, this Is my younger days.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

This is me in my younger days. But, yeah, the character is based off of me. The sin, you know? Yeah, the character's based off of me. The character Corey is based off of an ex of mine, a couple of exes of mine, kind of. In one, the character Nefertiti, who's the friend that comes in and stirs the pot, she's based off of somebody who I used to date.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Is the situation.

[Marcus Callender]

I can't.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I don't know how to ask this. How are the situations based off of real situations, too?

[Marcus Callender]

Yes. I really.

[Lauren LaRosa]

In the play.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

Virginity thing.

[Lauren LaRosa]

We could take that out.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah, take that out. I don't want to give away the play.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Y' all gotta go see the play. So knowing that this is all based off of, like, real life things, I mean, it felt real, but it. It adds to it. Have any of these people seen the play? Like, the people that you've based it off of, have they seen the play and reactions, Especially the ex girlfriends?

[Marcus Callender]

No, my ex girlfriend has not seen the play.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Is this the ex girlfriend that's also on TV right now?

[Marcus Callender]

No.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

No. But I'm sure she'd be triggered by it if she saw it, too. But, no, they have not seen the play, nor do I think they want to see the play. I mean, the ex that it's based off of, she still. Still does not fuck with me to this day.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Wow.

[Marcus Callender]

So, you know, I don't think she's gonna see the play. At least not this production. Maybe another production.

[Lauren LaRosa]

The show your ex is on isn't Bel Air because Bel Air is only in season four. I've been trying to figure this out. I'm gonna keep thinking while you talk. I just had to look that up, like, how many seasons of Bel Air.

[Marcus Callender]

So you probably watch it. You seem like you might watch it. So. Yeah, yeah. Andre's based off of myself. Nefertiti is based off of someone I met in la. That's another thing, too. And that's another. That's a part of, like, the journey in writing it. When I first wrote Nefertiti, I didn't spend that much time in la, so I wasn't as familiar with LA culture and people like that. So when I was living in la, I was able to develop that character more. You know what I mean? I remember meeting somebody out in LA and I was like. As soon as I saw her, I was like, that's. That's a nice Nefertiti right there. That's the Nefertiti right there. So, you know, that kind of dating her kind of added some details and stuff like that to the role. Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And why is the drink of choice.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah, wait, Hennessy.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It's two. It's Hennessy and it's Taylor.

[Marcus Callender]

And it's Taylor Port. Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Because we didn't had a run with Kasamigos in the community. Patron had us in a chokehold Ciroc. But maybe you can't do Ciroc, boys. You're not allowed to beat them. No more like, is there a creative answer to that question, or did you just pick those? Because that's what n be doing.

[Marcus Callender]

I feel like Hennessy is such a staple in the black community. When you pull that Henny out, you know what time it is? You know what I'm saying? Like, you know what time it is. And then Taylor Port, I feel like, is another staple in our community.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It's having a run right now with Xo.

[Marcus Callender]

Really?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. Oh.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh.

[Lauren LaRosa]

All summer, they've been doing Teleport is back yo.

[Marcus Callender]

Teleport, yo. But it's, you know, it's known to be this cheap, delicious wine. It tastes like juice, but that shit'll you up. You know what I'm saying? So. And I think it also plays. I. I'd use that because it plays to, like, her age. She's young. You don't know any refined wines or anything like that. Yes, but she's bougie enough to be like, I don't drink any.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

You know what I'm saying?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Like, it's a certain type of girl.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly.

[Lauren LaRosa]

So in the play, without giving it away, in the spades game, you know, you have your drinks going, your food going, and. And those were the drinks of choice, which they leaned a lot on as tools in the place. So I was wondering, like, is that a creative thing or just because that's what we be doing. So, you know, things for that.

[Marcus Callender]

In earlier versions, it was Moscato, because that's. I feel like Moscato is another, like, the pink. Yeah, yeah. The pink bottle, you know, wine. But I was like, let me do the tailor port. Because I've had teleport, and I know that thing will. That shit'll fuck you up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Go ahead.

[Marcus Callender]

No, go ahead.

[Lauren LaRosa]

When people come and see the play, when it's done and it's over and they walk away, they in their cars and they lit. Cause they done had a good time there, right, y'? All. A good time. What conversation do you want them to have?

[Marcus Callender]

I mean, one. I want Them, you know, I want the experience of being there and seeing the show. I want that to kind of resonate with them, because to me, I feel like I'm bringing back what theater used to feel like. They used to feel like going to the theater, you know what I mean? You got an experience. And, like, I remember back in the day, like, going to, like, something underground or, like, off Broadway was like, that's where the real work and the magic was happening. Yeah. So for me, it's like I'm bringing people up to Harlem, you know what I mean? Yo, we not even on Broadway with it. We up on 125th, right in the heart of it. And it's not like a tradition. It's not a theater technically. It's just this really dope space that we use and. And created this story out of, you know what I'm saying? So, like, people come in and, like, the play's happening here. Yes, it is. You know what I'm saying? So to me, it's like, I want them to leave with that experience. I hope that, you know, they could relate to somebody in this play. I feel like there's at least one character in this play you can relate to, you know what I'm saying? And, yeah, and I. And I hope it inspires people to want to write their own plays. I want people to be inspired, you know what I'm saying? I want people to realize. And I also want people, Black people, specifically, to understand, like, yo, we. We don't have to wait on them to. To make stuff. We can make the shit ourselves based.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Off of things we literally just do all day long in real life anyway.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly. You know what I mean? Like, shout out to my team and, like, everybody that's working with me on this, like, these are all people I love all people that, you know, like, I couldn't do this without them, you know what I'm saying? And it takes a village. As they say, teamwork makes the dream work. What's up, y'? All? This is Big Lone from It's Up There podcast. In this powerful episode, we're breaking down the danger of silence and how way too many of us are taught to protect the vibe instead of protecting ourselves. We spend more time researching cars, microphones, sneakers, then we will researching on how to protect our bodies and our partners. If you have an honest conversation, one uncomfortable minute can save you a lifetime of regret. The CDC says nearly one in five people carry an STI and most don't even know it. Real intimate isn't built in the dark it's built in the disclosure Condoms testing transparency. Those aren't passion killers, they're peace builders. It's too much risk in our silence. Speak up. You can listen to this special episode of It's Up There podcast with Lone brought to you by Healthy Sexual from Gilead sciences on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

[Lauren LaRosa]

When the holidays start to feel a.

Bit repetitive, reach for a Sprite Winter.

Spice Cranberry and put your twist on tradition. A bold cranberry and winter spice flavors.

Fusion Sprite Winter Spice Cranberry is a refreshing way to shake things up.

This sip and season and only for a limited time.

Sprite Obey your thirst.

Tired of spills and stains on your sofa? Wash away your worries with Anabe. Annabe is the only machine washable sofa inside and out where designer quality meets budget friendly prices. That's right, sofas start at just $699. Enjoy a no risk experience with pet friendly stain resistant and changeable slipcovers made with performance fabric Experience cloud like comfort with high resilience foam that's hypoallergenic and never needs fluffing. The sturdy steel frame ensures longevity and the modular pieces can be rearranged anytime. Shop washable washablesofas.com for early Black Friday savings up to 60% off site wide, backed by a 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not absolutely in love, send it back for a full refund. No return shipping or restocking fees. Every penny back. Upgrade [e-mail] Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. Breaking news everybody. Not everything is terrible. I repeat, not everything is terrible. The ripple effect with Jenna Kim Jones is proof that the Internet it hasn't ruined humanity entirely.

[Marcus Callender]

Clean the world. We have almost 10,000 hotels that operate our soap and plastic recycling program and we have created and distributed 90 million free bars of soap to children, families, mothers in 127 countries across the globe.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It's like magic you guys. So put down your doom scroller and pick up your faith in humanity and join me, Jenna for the Ripple Effect. It's a reminder that you can start a ripple that changes everything. You really can.

[Marcus Callender]

Best stat of all is that the death rate to children under the age of five dying to hygiene related illnesses has decreased by more than 60% since the day we started.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Listen to the Ripple Effect with Jenna Kim Jones on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Every holiday shopper's got A list. But Ross shoppers, you've got a mission like a gift run that turns into a disco snow globe, throw pillows and PJs for the whole family, dog included. At Ross Holiday magic isn't about spending more, it's about giving more for less. Ross, work your magic.

And then talk about, you know, just you talking about taking a village. So we did all of the. Kind of like the context of your backstory. How has everything that you've been through, the people that you've met, come into this moment of spades right now? Because, like I said, I walked in the first one and I'm like, that's Gal Bean.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Like, you know what I'm saying? And that's a big name to have attached to a play. You're a big as well. But, you know, it was, I mean, face recognition.

You.

You instantly like, you know, and that helps to put your project in certain conversations. Absolutely. Because she has fans.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly. I mean, shout out to Gail, thank you. I mean, the story about how that she wasn't who I had originally for that reading, the girl I had originally had to pull out, and she kind of pulled out last minute. So I was at. I was in a pick go. But, you know, I hit up a friend of mine in the industry who has worked with Gayle. I said, look, I think Gail would be good for this role. I think she lives in New York from what I see on her Instagram. You mind reaching out to her and you know what I'm saying? And she reached out. I mean, the person I called to reach out to her, she makes things happen because people have a lot of respect for her, as do I. So I knew hitting her up to hit up Gayle was just going to expedite the process.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Katasha's man. No.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh, Tasha need to come see the play. I met Tasha a few months ago. She need to come see the place. She would love it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Tasha Smith was. Which is so random because, like, we didn't even really know each other like that. It was just like, you know, you meet good people in passing. When I was trying to figure out leaving la, I randomly called her. She couldn't. She didn't answer. But she texted me and was like, hey, everything okay? And I text her and said, I'm about to quit my job and move from la. I just wanted to get some advice from somebody that's actually working and doing all the things I want to do.

[Marcus Callender]

Right.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And she sent me a voice note, and that voice note had me crying. And the next Day I quit my job and moved here, you see.

[Marcus Callender]

But you took the lead.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah, you took the lead. But I'm saying she's a person that. Like, I mentioned that because I know that, like, Gayle did Harlem, and, you know, Tasha Smith is working on. Well, was working with Harlem and all the things. But you talking about getting her to that play. Like, she's the type that will come out to that play, talk about that play. Like. And that's one of the things that I love about what you're doing. And the reason why I'm like, all right, I might can only come for, like, 30, 40 minutes, but I' ma come. It takes me an hour to get there, but I'm gonna come because I want to support it, is because I understand that if. If what we're doing right now. Yeah, that's how people find out about it. That's how your play gets to wherever theaters you want it to go. Gets the eyes, gets the financial support. All it does take community and absolutely had your resources, but we gotta be like the Tasha Smiths of the world, who will pick up the phone and call. We'll come out, we'll talk about it. Like, that's, like, so big for me. And I think what you do, y' all need it. Because theater is. It's not the thing that people, like, run to yell about.

[Marcus Callender]

Exactly. I mean, because also, too, it's like, as I said, I think it's another example of, like, people are more concerned with the glitz and the glam. You know, folks want to be on Broadway and all this other shit. That's cool. But what's the work that's being produced? I'm sitting in these plays, and I'm like, yo, this is whack. On top of that, I'm tired of seeing the same actors all the time. Why can't we get new faces? You know what I'm saying? There's other people who are just as hungry, who are just as talented, if not more. They just need the opportunity. You know what I'm saying? That was something I did. That was something I was very conscious about in casting this. I wanted brand new faces. I don't want to see the same all the time. These are all people I know because I'm in the industry with them, right, Y'. All. I'm tired of seeing y'.

[Lauren LaRosa]

All.

[Marcus Callender]

I want new faces to help bring this story to life. You know what I'm saying? Because instead of people coming in me like, oh, that's so and so. I want People. Oh, that's Gil. Oh, that's core. You know what I mean? Like, I want. Because to me, I feel like that helps the character resonate even more. Yeah. You know what I'm saying? So, you know, for me, it's just kind of like, I. We just need, like, we need to shake things up a bit right now because it's too stale. It's too stale. Everybody just wants the accolade. But what's the product? What's the story that you're telling? What's the experience that we're getting? You know what I mean? Besides, hey, I was there and so. And so from so and so was in it and I took a picture with them. But what's the story? What was the play about? I don't remember. I fell asleep. You know what I'm saying? Like, I wanna. If I'm coming to the theater, I tell me a story. Like, move me. You know what I mean? Something. So I'm. I'm. I'm. I want to bring that back. And we. I want to travel with this. Like, New York is not the one and only stop. I want to take this all over the country. I know.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Atlanta. Sophie said Atlanta.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh, I know they gonna eat it up in Atlanta.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Look, Sophie told us.

[Marcus Callender]

Oh, oh, they gonna eat it up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, no, Sophie, we know.

[Marcus Callender]

I had seen people audition from Atlanta, send audition tapes from Atlanta.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I mean, but that's a black mecca. So that's like a duh. You know what I'm saying? Atlanta, D.C. d.C. Chocolate City. You know what my Chicago would do?

[Marcus Callender]

Well, Chicago, we eat it up, too.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I went to Chicago recently and I was like, this is Atlanta. Like, it's so black.

[Marcus Callender]

Really.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I was in the Soho House in Chicago, and it was black people. And, like, I was. I was. Because you hear the complete. Like, not that you don't hear that black people are in Chicago, but you only hear about the bad things happening with black people when it comes to Chicago, at least on a media level for me and what I do. So when I went there and I'm seeing all these black people in the Soho House, and, you know, it's just vibes and people are happy and, you know, they're. I was just like, yes. Like, it felt like I was in Atlanta. It felt like I was in Atlanta, where you walk outside and, like, black is royalty.

[Marcus Callender]

I'll tell you what my dream city is New Orleans.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, yes, I would love.

[Marcus Callender]

New Orleans is my favorite city in the world. Yes, I would love to bring this play to New Orleans. They will eat it up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I think it'll happen.

[Marcus Callender]

Hey, well, because, you know, New Orleans doesn't have a theater scene like that, which is.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Which is crazy to me.

[Marcus Callender]

Blows up my mind.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. All of their, like, the band, like, Frontline stuff that they do is the music and the costuming.

[Marcus Callender]

You know what it is? It's because New Orleans is a theatric, is a theatrical experience in itself. Just being in the city, the food. So New Orleans is my dream city because, well, you know, as I said, like, they don't have a theater scene out there. And I think this place specifically, they were. Oh, they would eat it up. On top of that, what, you know, what we want to do is, like, every city we go to, we want to, like, cater to, like, that city. You know what I mean? So, like, you know how we have the Sunday brunches here?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Marcus Callender]

You know, we'll do that in New Orleans and say, like, we'll have, you know, we'll bring in a band, you know, because they're big on that second line and all of that type of stuff. And imagine the food in New Orleans. Imagine the food in New Orleans. You know what I'm saying?

[Lauren LaRosa]

So what do you need to make that happen? Like money? Exactly. Simple as that. How can the people, you know, our community here at the Latest with Lauren LaRosa is called the Lowriders. On the audio side, we have 5 million people. That was like a few months ago, so we probably well over that. The visual side, we're here. This is new, our home and our studio. So to all the people listening, anyone watching, how what do you do?

[Marcus Callender]

I mean, for one, if you're in New York, if you are in New York City, come see the play. Just first and foremost, just come see the play, come experience it, so that at least you know what you're putting your dollars into and, you know, now and then you can relate to what we're talking about. We have, you know, we have a donation link. If people want to donate.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Please drop your link.

[Marcus Callender]

But I think first and foremost, I just want people to come see it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you.

[Marcus Callender]

Come see it, come experience it. You know what I mean? Because I think that'll help with moving people to want to do it, because then also, too, I get it, the economy is real effed up right now. It's fucked up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

But we need joy, too, though.

[Marcus Callender]

We need joy.

[Lauren LaRosa]

And that's another great dude.

[Marcus Callender]

And that's why Sunday brunches are my favorite days, because it's just pure family. You know what I Mean, you come in. We have a different DJ every week. His aunt has been our food caterer and she's been killing it with the.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Food people do they eat. They eat in the space that we were in on what? There's no tables notice on the second floor.

[Marcus Callender]

We got tables set up and everything.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you. Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

It's a. It's a 420 friendly space. So, you know, you get your smoke on too. You know what I'm saying? We have drinks, you know what I mean? Everything is. Everything that you need to have a good time is provided for you. Shout out to our host, Sarah. Sarah, you know, kind of keeps the vibes going. She's really dope. And it's just a good time. And then you get to watch a play after. You know what I mean? And then after the play, if you want to chill and play spade some more, you could do that too, you know what I mean? It's just a good time where you could just come and commune and just, you know, it. It could be a nice little date night little situation or a nice little yo, come find you a. You know, Come find a little situation, you know.

[Lauren LaRosa]

They need a website. They need a website. They need an Instagram. So how can they come to. Where do they get the tickets to come see the play?

[Marcus Callender]

Go to our Instagram at Spades the play.

[Lauren LaRosa]

All common spelling.

[Marcus Callender]

Huh?

[Lauren LaRosa]

All regular spelling. All right.

[Marcus Callender]

Spades the play, okay. It is. Our ticket link is in the bio and they can find it there. And yeah, you know, we're still building. We're still building. We. We are in the, the, the beginning stages, but this is going to grow. You know what I'm saying? I think because also too. Another beautiful thing is that this is literally the only thing that of its kind, there's no other play that revolves around a game of spades.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I love this for you. I'm trying to look up your, your ticket link so you can share it because on the audio side, you got people that might not be Instagram savvy.

[Marcus Callender]

Okay?

[Lauren LaRosa]

So I want to make sure they can get to you.

[Marcus Callender]

We're selling our tickets through Posh. It's an app for like events and stuff like that. So if you have the, the app Posh, you can find us there space to play. Same way. Did you Google changes of play? There's nothing else.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you, got you. And we'll in the. So for everybody, you know, listening, watching, whatever, we'll have the link visually if you're watching, but if you're listening, we'll make sure that we put the link. I'll have it on my, like, Instagram. And then we'll also try and make sure that we put it in the description. I don't know if it's clickable there from that, though, but if it is, I don't mind doing that for you either, so that people can be able to. But if you're listening, just. I'm gonna do this just in case we can't link it. If you're listening. Spades to play on Instagram. Common spelling, but you guys follow me on Instagram as well. I'm Lauren LaRosa everywhere. And y' all know I'll be posting this and tagging and all the things so that you guys can find this play. Definitely go out and see it. Definitely bring a friend. Definitely tell a friend. I've enjoyed the conversation. I know one of my favorite things to do as, you know, a podcaster, because we're podcasters now, y' all, is have conversations that I enjoy. And, like, I've been able to do that through this show. I've been blessed to be able to do that. And I feel thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and hearing your journey. And I'm proud that you kept going.

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Are you happy now?

[Marcus Callender]

Yeah. I mean, yeah. I mean, it's. Look, there's been a lot of moments where it was like, yo, what am I doing? What am I doing? You know? God, like, what are you doing to me right now?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Marcus Callender]

But, you know, it's just that. It's that resilience to, like, keep going no matter what, because, you know you're going to be faced with obstacles. That's life. But that's the test.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Marcus Callender]

Can you make it? You know what I mean? Like, are you gonna let so and so stop you from making it happen? You know what I mean? And every time I persevered, it's come through for me, you know what I'm saying? So I already know big things are gonna happen from this. I don't know what, but I just know this is. This is something that I was put here to do, you know what I mean? And that's another thing, too, in that in that journey I told you about, I found it allowed me to discover my purpose.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Gotcha.

[Marcus Callender]

You know what I'm saying? Okay. I'm not just Marcus the actor anymore. Telling people I'm an actor is so boring to me because it's like, I do way more than that. Yeah. Acting is my, you know, my first love and all of that. And I could do that, it ain't going nowhere. But I also do these other things and I have a lot to offer. But sometimes you have to put yourself out on front street in order for people to realize that. As opposed to waiting for someone to tell you that. Because these folks ain't gonna tell you that. They just worried about, hey, can you audition for this thing? You know, we want the 10. You know what I mean? Yourself, you gotta, you gotta bet on yourself. If you know that you have more to offer to the world, you have to bet on yourself because no one's gonna want it more than you.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes, I agree. Well, look, Lowriders, I tell you guys, every single episode, y' all could be anywhere with anybody having these conversations. And listen, y' all choose to be here every single episode. So I am extremely excited that you guys got to explain experience what I've been able to experience in seeing Spades to Play and hearing from the creator, Marcus Callender, also, too.

[Marcus Callender]

I'm an ambassador of this company called UFO Rolls. It's a rolling paper company. And what makes their product unique as well is that the rolling paper kits come with a built in grinder. Come on now. I think it's in here.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I don't know nothing about much, but he's very excited about it.

[Marcus Callender]

So, so this is. So this is the paper right here. You know, you got your, you got your papers, you got your filters. But then on the inside, let me see the grinders. Like a. There's a little mini grinder right there. So like on the go, you can take your weed.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, you still got to do it like. Yeah, okay, but like, let's say under your nails though.

[Marcus Callender]

But, but look, it's better than nothing. You can do it like this.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Oh, it's a grater. Okay. Because I know grinders, you normally like, twist them.

[Marcus Callender]

Sometimes you'll be out, you're like, damn. Like, yeah, yeah. You know what I'm saying?

[Lauren LaRosa]

What should carry?

[Marcus Callender]

And it comes with that. And then we have a grinder. We do have a grinder.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Additional one. Okay.

[Marcus Callender]

That's pretty special too.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you.

[Marcus Callender]

It's shaped like a ufo.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Got you.

[Marcus Callender]

Okay, this is our grinder.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I love that.

[Marcus Callender]

Got like a little UFO shape to it. So for all my marijuana connoisseurs out there, look in the UFO role, you.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Can copy your product and then you can come and watch the play because it's 420 friendly and you can use the product we got.

[Marcus Callender]

We got product galore at the show.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes. Well, y' all make sure y' all pull up. Check out space to play created directed by Marcus Calendar. Thank you so much for joining us. This has been an amazing conversation and congratulations and when you are winning all of the awards and all the things. Okay, don't forget us over here.

[Marcus Callender]

I ain't gonna forget.

[Lauren LaRosa]

We're gonna call call y' all back for another interview. Don't forget. I know I'm a little all over the place, but we knew but we here. It's the latest with Lauren, the rose to the podcast. I'll see you guys in our next episode. Thank y' all for joining me. This has been a live conversation with actor, storyteller, creative Marcus callender. I'm Lauren LaRosa. This is the latest with Lauren LaRosa signing out.

[Marcus Callender]

Some moments in life. Stay with you forever. In a special segment of on purpose brought to you by ebay, I share a story about a book that changed my life early in my journey and how I was able to find the same exact edition on ebay. It was more than just a purchase. It was a reconnection with a memory that shaped my purpose. There are certain books that don't just give you information. They shift the way you see the world. I remember reading one when I was younger. That completely changed me me. Years later, I found myself thinking about that book again. I wanted the same edition back, not a reprint, that exact one. So I started searching and that's when I found it on ebay. That's what I love about ebay, where you can rediscover the pieces of your past that still inspire your present. Shop ebay for millions of finds, each with a story. Ebay things people love. Listen to on purpose on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

[Lauren LaRosa]

It's finally here. Black Friday at ulta Beauty. Take 30% off Mac foundations and lip colors. Save $100 on the iconic Dyson airwrap. And starting Tuesday, shop mascaras for $14 and lip colors for $12. Perfect for stocking up to make it super easy. Shop online and pick up in store or get same day to delivery. Head into Ulta Beauty and shop Black Friday deals now through November 29th. Ulta Beauty Gifting happens here.

[Marcus Callender]

This is Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds are for those who don't conform to the standard. Yeah, I mean, if you want to get into some touchscreen technology, how about the smart charging case Clear sound? These are not standard things. You're only going to get them with the JBL Tour Pro 3 baby. And I love the sound of JBL when it these earbuds are packed with innovation because you can't stand out by following others. Touchscreen smart charging case for one touch control, instant EQ customization, true adaptive noise canceling and the one of a kind audio transmitter which can plug and play with everything from game consoles to in flight entertainment. What more could you want first doesn't follow. Grab a [e-mail] travel is one of.

[Lauren LaRosa]

The best ways to discover yourself through experiences, making rich memories, the heightened emotions.

And deep connections and and with EF.

Ultimate Break's biggest sale of the year.

There is up to $1,000 off trips.

To Japan, Italy, Greece, Thailand, Egypt, Kenya and beyond, which you can lock in for just $99.

Build lasting friendships forever, change how you see the world and just have the.

Time of your Life. Visit eFultimatebreak.com if you're looking for a.

[Marcus Callender]

Gift that inspires confidence and adventure all year long, give them a Guardian bike. The number one kids bike.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Easiest to learn on, safest to ride with USA made Kid Specific frames and.

[Marcus Callender]

Patented safety technology, kids are learning to ride in just one day. No training wheels needed.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Guardian is America's favorite kids bike and.

[Marcus Callender]

The New York Times and Wirecutters top pick three years in a row. This holiday season, Guardian is offering up to 40% in savings on all bikes plus $100 in free accessories. Shop [e-mail] this is an iHeart podcast.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Guaranteed human.