The Joe Budden Podcast – Episode 815 | "Al B. Ehhhh" Summary

Release Date: April 9, 2025

1. Money and Success Stories Timestamp: 00:28 - 12:00

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about wealth and success among friends. Joe Budden emphasizes the strength of their bond, stating, "Two black brothers that have been friends for so long getting millions, why would that be a beef?" (00:29). The conversation evolves into debates about billionaires, with Melissa Ford expressing skepticism about their existence, claiming, "I don't think billionaires should exist" (01:12). The hosts explore the idea of financial generosity, pondering whether they would give away their wealth if they became billionaires. Melissa Ford asserts, "I would literally not [be a billionaire]. I'd give away half of it. Absolutely" (01:41).

2. Relationships and Social Interactions Timestamp: 12:00 - 25:00

The conversation shifts to personal relationships and social dynamics. The hosts recount a humorous incident involving Calvin buying calamari, leading to playful banter and teasing. Joe Budden shares a story about feeling disconnected from his friends, saying, "What's better than two millionaires? Whoa. Oh. What's better than three?" (00:44). The group reflects on community and camaraderie, highlighting the importance of supporting one another without ulterior motives.

3. Music Discussions: Female Rappers Rankings Timestamp: 44:00 - 78:00

A major segment of the episode delves into music, specifically ranking the top female rappers of all time. The hosts critique existing lists, pointing out omissions and questionable inclusions. Ish lists several artists, mentioning, "25 is Tierra Whack. 24 is Dochi... 3 Lauryn Hill, 2 Missy Elliott, and one Nicki Minaj" (56:22). Melissa Ford challenges the criteria used for these rankings, arguing for the inclusion of artists like Jean Grae based on pure talent, stating, "Jean Grey is the number two woman rapper of all time... I think she's extraordinary" (60:42). The debate intensifies as they discuss the cultural impact, lyrical prowess, and longevity of various artists, culminating in a unanimous agreement that the current lists are flawed and lacking in accurate representation.

4. Sports Talk: NBA Players Comparisons Timestamp: 78:00 - 120:00

The hosts transition to sports, focusing on NBA player Nikola Jokić's prowess compared to legends like Shaquille O'Neal and Hakeem Olajuwon. Joe Budden asserts, "Jokic isn't just the best player in the world. He's quietly building one of the greatest legacies we've ever seen" (56:34). Ish counters by emphasizing the differences in eras and styles, noting, "Jokic's rebounds are not the same as Shaq's rebounds" (58:42). The debate highlights the challenges of comparing players across different basketball epochs, with discussions on efficiency, versatility, and defensive capabilities. Parks adds, "Missy deserves all that shit that y'all give Lauren," drawing parallels between player accolades and their comprehensive contributions to the game (59:45).

5. Listener Questions: Family History Timestamp: 120:00 - 180:00

A listener named Duron P poses a heartfelt question about uncovering his biological grandfather's identity due to family secrets and medical concerns. The hosts provide compassionate advice, suggesting approaches to broach the sensitive topic with his mother. Melissa Ford recommends using ancestry services and approaching the conversation with empathy, stating, "Approach it from a place of not saying, why is my mom so being so stubborn... but saying, like, why might she not want to give me this information?" (169:30). The discussion underscores the importance of understanding and respecting family dynamics while seeking personal truths.

6. Political Debate: Tariffs, Trump, Biden Timestamp: 180:00 - 217:25

The conversation heats up as the hosts engage in a passionate debate over U.S. political strategies, focusing on tariffs imposed on China and the contrasting approaches of the Trump and Biden administrations. Erickson highlights the economic implications, stating, "Tariffs on China are set to rise to at least 104%" (154:41). Joe Budden critiques the effectiveness of current policies, arguing, "The Democratic Party has been having trouble with a farm system and a candidate that the people can get behind" (152:01). Ish and Melissa Ford express concerns about the long-term sustainability of these measures, emphasizing the potential for economic downturns and loss of manufacturing jobs. The debate underscores the complexity of balancing economic protectionism with global trade relationships, with the hosts advocating for more transparent and effective governance.

7. Music Sharing: Sleeper Tracks Timestamp: 120:00 - 217:25

Throughout the episode, the hosts share and promote various sleeper tracks, showcasing up-and-coming artists. Mark Lamont Hill presents his own tracks, such as "Inside My Home Heart" (186:00), while Ish and Flip introduce songs like "Stay" by Dende and Roy Woods, and "Spin" by Kevin Ross. These segments highlight the hosts' support for emerging talent and their appreciation for diverse musical styles, ranging from Afro beats to reality rap.

8. Final Political Points and Wrap-up Timestamp: 217:00 - End

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts revisit earlier political discussions, emphasizing the need for the Democratic Party to innovate and connect with voters effectively. Melissa Ford emphasizes, "Voters generally don't respond well to I told you so" and advocates for solution-based messaging over confrontational rhetoric (147:52). Joe Budden underscores the importance of having charismatic leaders to rejuvenate the party, stating, "The Republicans have found their Aaron Judge... The Democrats don't even have that person" (157:03). The episode wraps up with a spirited farewell, leaving listeners with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for future discussions.

Notable Quotes:

• Joe Budden (00:29): "Two black brothers that have been friends for so long getting millions, why would that be a beef?"

• Melissa Ford (01:12): "I don't think billionaires should exist."

• Ish (56:22): "25 is Tierra Whack. 24 is Dochi... 3 Lauryn Hill, 2 Missy Elliott, and one Nicki Minaj."

• Melissa Ford (60:42): "Jean Grey is the number two woman rapper of all time... I think she's extraordinary."

• Erickson (154:41): "Tariffs on China are set to rise to at least 104%."

• Melissa Ford (169:30): "Approach it from a place of not saying, why is my mom so being so stubborn... but saying, like, why might she not want to give me this information?"

Conclusion

Episode 815 of The Joe Budden Podcast presents a dynamic mix of discussions weaving through personal anecdotes, in-depth debates on music and sports, and fervent political discourse. The hosts' candid conversations offer listeners a glimpse into their perspectives on wealth, relationships, cultural impact, and national governance, all while supporting emerging voices in the music industry. The episode concludes on a note of unity and anticipation, reinforcing the bond among the hosts and their commitment to engaging conversations.