Podcast Summary: The Read – Episode: Dying To Speak

Release Date: May 8, 2025
Host/Authors: Kid Fury and Crissle (Crystal)
Published On: iTunes, iHeart Radio Talk, SoundCloud, Stitcher
Network: LoudSpeakers Network

1. Black Excellence

Tina Knowles' New Bestselling Book
Timestamp: 01:26 – 02:27

Kid Fury and Crissle kick off the episode by celebrating Tina Knowles' achievement of becoming a New York Times bestselling author. They commend her book for being engaging and full of "tea" that satisfies the nosy and curious listeners.

Notable Quote:
Crissle: “I cannot recommend this book enough to others. So, yeah, congratulations Ms. Tina. Very, very, very well deserved.”
(02:13)

Kendrick Lamar’s Record-Breaking Concert
Timestamp: 02:27 – 04:04

The hosts discuss Kendrick Lamar making history as the first rapper to earn $9 million from a single concert. They highlight his sold-out show at Minnesota's Bank Stadium, surpassing Eminem's previous record.

Notable Quotes:
Kid Fury: “Kendrick Lamar has become the first rapper to earn $9 million from one concert alone.”
(02:27)
Crissle: “You sold every available ticket and $9 million were grossed in one evening. My goodness.”
(03:43)

2. Hot Box

Met Gala Recap
Timestamp: 04:08 – 22:32

Kid Fury and Crissle delve into the highlights of the Met Gala, focusing on the "Black Dandyism" theme. They praise several celebrities for their fashion choices, including Rihanna, Cardi B, Quinta Brunson, Janelle Monáe, and Zendaya. The hosts express admiration for the creativity and execution of the theme while critiquing some attendees for not adhering to it as effectively.

Notable Quotes:
Crissle: “I love Janelle Monae... They did a whole ass sickening spread with many of these faces.”
(07:10)
Kid Fury: “A lot of men looked great, but I saw a lot of unfortunate ones, especially black ones.”
(22:32)

Nick Cannon’s Unusual Insurance Policy
Timestamp: 36:26 – 41:40

The discussion shifts to Nick Cannon insuring his testicles for $10 million each, a move they find both humorous and concerning. They speculate on the implications and joke about the motivations behind such a decision.

Notable Quote:
Crissle: “Father of 12 Nick Cannon took out a $10 million dollar insurance policy on his testicles.”
(39:13)
Kid Fury: “If he loses a ball, that money goes to his kids. Why wouldn't they try to chop your balls off?”
(42:23)

Parenting Challenges and Neurodivergence
Timestamp: 56:05 – 124:38

The hosts engage in a deep conversation about parenting, particularly focusing on raising neurodivergent children. They discuss personal experiences, societal expectations, and the struggles of balancing personal well-being with parenting responsibilities. Crissle shares her frustrations with strict parenting and societal pressures, while Kid Fury empathizes with the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.

Notable Quotes:
Crissle: “You need to get comfortable with cutting me off if you want to share so badly.”
(75:00)
Kid Fury: “If you aren't comfortable, then you likely are not going to get what you need out of the session.”
(64:34)

3. Letters

Letter from Angelica: Therapist’s Unprofessionalism
Timestamp: 62:18 – 66:20

Angelica writes about her uncomfortable experience with a therapist who used profanity without seeking consent. The hosts discuss appropriate professional behavior in therapy settings and emphasize the importance of finding a therapist who respects the client's boundaries.

Notable Quotes:
Kid Fury: “They said, hear ye, hear ye. Blacks to the front. Oh yeah...”
(23:31)
Crissle: “Not a therapist. Well, close enough. I have to. I have to say, fuck.”
(66:20)

Letter from Hillary Banks: Black Identity and Sound
Timestamp: 72:16 – 81:55

Hillary Banks questions how black individuals who "sound white" are perceived within the community. Crissle and Kid Fury debate the impact of upbringing and environment on one's identity and communication style, stressing the importance of beliefs and actions over vocal inflections.

Notable Quotes:
Crissle: “Stop speculating about these seven almost eight-year-old kids.”
(123:57)
Kid Fury: “It's a whole lot of niggas that I know... don't give a fuck how you sound.”
(75:29)

Letter from Sharon: One-Sided Friendship
Timestamp: 82:05 – 130:36

Sharon expresses frustration over a friend, Laura, who dominates conversations, making the friendship feel one-sided. The hosts offer advice on setting boundaries and prioritizing reciprocal relationships, highlighting the challenges of maintaining friendships with differing communication styles.

Notable Quotes:
Crissle: “If you don't like the way you talk to me, then speak the fuck up type of attitude.”
(94:11)
Kid Fury: “Laura wasn't talking over everybody in the goddamn house because she was neurodivergent.”
(97:07)

4. Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

In the concluding segments, Kid Fury and Crissle reminisce about personal experiences, upcoming events, and share final remarks on the topics discussed. They emphasize themes of individuality, community support, and self-care.

Notable Quotes:
Crissle: “Please shut the fuck up when it comes to these, these seven almost eight-year-old kids.”
(123:57)
Kid Fury: “Happy May. Have fun at the concert if you can. Please be safe.”
(131:05)

Key Takeaways:

• Celebration of Black Achievements: The hosts highlight significant accomplishments within the black community, emphasizing the importance of representation and excellence.

• Fashion and Pop Culture Critique: Detailed analysis of the Met Gala's themes and celebrity fashion choices, blending admiration with constructive criticism.

• Parenting and Mental Health: Deep dives into the complexities of raising neurodivergent children, the importance of supportive parenting, and navigating societal pressures.

• Navigating Friendships: Practical advice on handling one-sided relationships and the necessity of mutual respect and communication in friendships.

• Personal Reflections: The hosts share personal stories and experiences, fostering a relatable and authentic connection with their audience.

This episode of The Read offers a blend of humor, critical analysis, and heartfelt discussions, making it a must-listen for fans interested in hip-hop, pop culture, and the intricacies of modern black life in New York City.