The Joe Budden Podcast – Episode 790 | "Means to an End"
Release Date: January 11, 2025
Host: The Joe Budden Network
Description: Tune into Joe Budden and his friends as they navigate through a whirlwind of topics ranging from technical mishaps to catastrophic wildfires, celebrity controversies, and deep dives into popular culture.
1. Technical Discussions and Mic Checks
The episode kicks off with a humorous yet earnest discussion about microphone levels and recording techniques. Joe Budden emphasizes the importance of a proper mic check to ensure high-quality audio, while co-hosts Queens Flip, Melissa Ford, Parks, and Ish add their own comedic takes on the process.
- Joe Budden: “It's called a mic check, Antoine. You should do one so you can stop coming in sounding like, oh, you.” (00:32)
- Queens Flip: “We talk about mic check 1, 2.” (01:31)
2. The Wildfires in Los Angeles
A significant portion of the conversation centers around the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. The hosts express deep concern over the scale of destruction, the loss of homes, and the city's preparedness in handling such disasters. They critique budget cuts to the fire department and the dire consequences these cuts have had on firefighting efforts.
- Joe Budden: “I can't imagine losing my entire home and all of my belongings.” (33:52)
- Melissa Ford: “It's just so easy.” (35:54)
- Joe Budden: “They put ever many hundreds of millions of dollars into trying to police the subways.” (26:05)
The discussion delves into socio-political implications, the impact on mental health, and the challenges faced by displaced individuals, highlighting the inadequacies in emergency response and support systems.
3. Streaming Incident at Playboy Max's House
Joe introduces a recent incident involving streamers Fabio and Lil TJ at Playboy Max's house. The discussion highlights their disregard for smoking rules, resulting in disrespect towards the host, Black Boy Max. The hosts condemn the behavior, emphasizing the importance of respecting house rules and the negative repercussions of such actions.
- Joe Budden: “They started smoking in there.” (56:47)
- Joe Budden: “That is so disrespectful.” (57:41)
4. 'The Jackal' Series - Discussion on Character Actions
The hosts engage in an in-depth analysis of the TV series 'The Jackal,' focusing on the character Bianca. They dissect her motivations, moral dilemmas, and the tragic outcomes of her deceitful actions. The conversation touches on themes of accountability, self-awareness, and the blurred lines between right and wrong within high-stakes environments.
- Joe Budden: “Or have I not led by example by sitting here doing a mic check on and off mic, getting my voice.” (08:23)
- Queens Flip: “She could come off like you just being insulting. You just want to insult.” (08:44)
5. Ranking the Greatest Albums of the 21st Century
Joe Budden leads a lively segment where the hosts list and debate the greatest albums released in the 21st century. The dialogue features passionate opinions on artists like Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, Outkast, and more, showcasing their diverse musical tastes and criteria for what makes an album iconic.
- Ish: “I'm looking at a map, but that says a lot.” (43:42)
- Joe Budden: “Number one is Beyonce Lemonade.” (94:34)
- Joe Budden: “I have to go back and listen to Blonde. I've been saying that for years.” (139:46)
6. NFL Playoffs Predictions
Shifting gears to sports, the hosts engage in a spirited discussion predicting outcomes for upcoming NFL playoff games. They analyze team performances, key player injuries, and strategic plays, offering their insights and favorite picks for the season's high-stakes matches.
- Ish: “I think the Bills are gonna make it.” (164:07)
- Joe Budden: “I'm going Bills for sure. Raven.” (163:14)
7. Cancellation of 'Improper Improv'
Queens Flip makes an important announcement regarding the cancellation of a segment titled 'Improper Improv.' She explains that the decision stems from resource constraints and the need to focus on other aspects of the podcast, while expressing gratitude towards the listeners and team members.
- Queens Flip: “I have to prioritize and focus more on not saying improper improv wasn't important, but it just took a lot of work.” (130:53)
8. Discussions on Recent Celebrity Events and Legal Issues
The conversation takes a turn towards recent celebrity events, including Alec Baldwin's civil lawsuit following the dismissal of manslaughter charges related to the fatal shooting on the set of "Rust." The hosts discuss the legal ramifications, the actions of prosecutors, and the broader implications for accountability in high-profile cases.
- Joe Budden: “Alec Baldwin is suing because the charge was dismissed, so now he's suing for malicious prosecution.” (146:21)
- Ish: “If they suppressed that video, I would be on your team to sue the fuck out of whoever suppressed that video.” (148:14)
9. Music Freestyles and Final Thoughts
As the episode draws to a close, the hosts engage in freestyle rapping, blending their personal sentiments with creative expressions. Queens Flip announces the end of 'Improper Improv,' while Joe reflects on the state of society, personal relationships, and the future direction of the podcast. The episode culminates with heartfelt prayers for those affected by the LA fires and a promise of continued conversations in future episodes.
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Metro Joe Budden Freestyle Excerpt:
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Final Remarks:
Notable Quotes with Speaker Attribution and Timestamps
- Joe Budden: “People on the highway I saw were abandoning their vehicles.” (34:19)
- Melissa Ford: “They don't remember when you had to pay for text. Remember that?” (03:50)
- Queens Flip: “I'm proud that they beat Oprah in the ratings at one point.” (96:12)
- Ish: “I'm happy that you said that. That's dope.” (24:34)
Conclusion
Episode 790 of The Joe Budden Podcast offers a rich tapestry of discussions, blending humor with serious commentary on pressing societal issues like wildfires and accountability in the entertainment industry. The hosts' camaraderie shines through as they navigate through diverse topics, culminating in personal reflections and plans for the podcast's future. For those who haven't tuned in, this episode provides an engaging snapshot of the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Joe Budden and his network of co-hosts.