Summary of The Joe Budden Podcast – Episode 833: "Up To My Wits End"
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Hosts: The Joe Budden Network (Joe Budden, Melissa Ford, Ice, Mark Lamont Hill, Parks, Queens Flip)
Introduction
In Episode 833, titled "Up To My Wits End," Joe Budden and his eclectic group of friends delve deep into their experiences at the recent BET Awards, sharing personal stories, notable performances, and engaging in candid discussions about the entertainment industry, sports, and personal conflicts.
BET Awards Recap and Personal Reflections
The episode kicks off with reflections on the BET Awards, marking Joe Budden's debut anniversary on June 10th. The hosts express nostalgia and appreciation for the event's blend of music, performances, and tributes.
Joe Budden [04:08]: "The BET Awards last night has me feeling very nostalgic... Number two, it's June 10th, which is the anniversary of my debut."
Mark Lamont Hill’s Encounter with Denzel Washington
Mark shares an engaging story about attempting to meet Denzel Washington at the BET Awards. Despite initial challenges and skepticism about Denzel recognizing him, Mark's persistence pays off, resulting in a memorable interaction that leaves a lasting impression on both him and his wife.
Mark Lamont Hill [30:10]: "It was the wildest. And he wasn't... There was no arrogance to it. It was like, I just. I'm just somebody else."
Tributes and Performances
The hosts pay homage to several influential figures who passed away recently:
- Richard Muhammad [15:31]: Editor-in-chief of The Final Call newspaper, instrumental in resurrecting the Nation of Islam.
- Sam Moore [17:44]: Legendary singer from the soul duo Sam & Dave.
- Wayne Lewis [22:35]: Lead singer of Atlantic Star, remembered for his extraordinary voice.
- Sly Stone [36:07]: Pioneer of funk and influential musician.
Mark Lamont Hill [84:11]: "To me, the thing that I remember about him... those were messages that they had, that were resistance."
Discussions on Media Representation and Sportsmanship
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the media's treatment of female athletes, specifically comparing Coco Jones and Angel Reese. The hosts critique the inconsistent narratives and highlight issues like "white fragility" in media responses.
Melissa Ford [186:33]: "The media is centering this white woman... they describe Caitlin Clark's determination... but not Angel Reese's."
They also discuss Wale's experiences at sports events, touching on themes of PTSD and the disconnect between traditional hip-hop and modern streamers.
Ice [104:36]: "We have to support each other... a lot of time people are taking time bombs..."
Conflict with Mel Ford
Tensions arise as Mel Ford confronts the hosts about personal boundaries and the inappropriate use of her name in podcast discussions. The interaction highlights the challenges of maintaining professionalism within close-knit groups.
Melissa Ford [175:27]: "I've had somebody say the exact same thing."
Tragic Murder Story and Mental Health Awareness
The podcast takes a somber turn as the hosts recount the tragic murder of Finny the Legend and his wife by a YouTuber named Sin City. This leads to a broader discussion on mental health, the impact of online conflicts, and the importance of intervention.
Mark Lamont Hill [130:01]: "Cause a lot of times people are taking time bombs, and the only reason more people aren't being killed is just by luck."
NBA Finals and Sports Commentary
The hosts share their thoughts on the NBA Finals, criticizing the league's coverage and discussing player performances. They express support for underdog teams and lament the lack of superstar presence impacting viewership ratings.
Joe Budden [157:05]: "Thought they was two, any girl, everybody... They put in this first award show."
Tyler Perry’s Speech and Media Critique
A heated discussion unfolds around Tyler Perry's performance at the BET Awards. The hosts debate the sincerity and intentions behind his tributes, questioning whether they were performative or genuine expressions of respect.
Mark Lamont Hill [173:02]: "I think it's just a stretch... He's a rebel. He was making rebel music."
Final Shout-Outs and Wrap-Up
As the episode concludes, the hosts offer heartfelt shout-outs to friends, tribute recipients, and participants who contributed to their memorable BET Awards experience. They also promote featured artists and their latest projects, emphasizing community support and personal growth.
Joe Budden [214:07]: "Leon Thomas, Kehlani, Dirt on my shoes... It's a new single, so go support a real."
Notable Quotes
- Joe Budden [153:04]: "I'm sick of seeing murders in 4k."
- Mark Lamont Hill [142:16]: "You niggas can't even walk in the mall by yourself."
- Melissa Ford [175:25]: "Cause people have had respect for your marriage."
Conclusion
Episode 833 of The Joe Budden Podcast offers a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes, critical analyses of media practices, and heartfelt tributes. Joe and his friends navigate through moments of nostalgia, conflict, and solidarity, providing listeners with an engaging and multifaceted discussion on the intertwining worlds of entertainment, sports, and personal relationships.