Podcast Summary: The Read – Episode "LA Hitness"

Release Date: January 23, 2025

Hosts: Kid Fury and Crissle
Network: Loud Speakers Network
Platforms: iTunes, iHeart Radio Talk, Soundcloud, Stitcher

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with playful banter between Kid Fury and Crissle, setting the tone for a week filled with humor, sharp insights, and candid discussions about the latest happenings in hip-hop and pop culture.

2. Black Excellence

Celebrating Achievements in Sports
The hosts spotlight Marcus Freeman, the head coach of Notre Dame, celebrating his historic achievement as the first Black head coach to reach the college football finals.

• Risque: “He’s become the first black head coach to reach the college football finals. … It’s about us. We’re going to celebrate what we’ve done because it’s so special.” [03:26]

• Crystal: “I would have loved to talk sports with you, but … when that white lady asked him how it felt …” [04:08]

Freeman’s approach emphasizes teamwork and the collective effort of the players, downplaying his individual role while highlighting the broader significance of his achievement.

3. Movie Spotlight: "One of Them Days"

Highlighting "One of Them Days"
Crissle and Risque discuss the success of the movie "One of Them Days," praising its humor and impact.

• Risque: “So proud of you, Sarita. … rap Shit Family Issa … gathered up money for Fire Relief … making people laugh because Lord knows we could use it.” [05:27]

• Crystal: “I had a blast. … like, I’m not going to … but go. If you need to laugh and have some black fun, go see this movie.” [06:11]

The hosts commend the cast and crew, noting the film’s ability to provide much-needed laughter and support charitable causes.

4. TV Shows: "Abbott Elementary"

Praise for "Abbott Elementary"
Crissle and Risque delve into their admiration for the TV show "Abbott Elementary," particularly lauding its handling of recent challenges like the strike.

• Risque: “It just… hasn’t really misstepped …” [07:57]

• Crystal: “It's still good, even with the strike. … The way they came back after the strikes… very good.” [08:10]

They express excitement for future seasons and the potential for additional content, highlighting the show’s resilience and quality.

5. Hot Topics

a. TikTok Ban Attempts and Revival

Government Intervention in Social Media
The conversation shifts to recent political moves to ban TikTok in the U.S. and its rapid reinstatement following intervention by former President Trump.

• Crystal: “She has been all over my for you page on TikTok … obsessed.” [02:32]

• Risque: “TikTok was shut down, and … thank you, Trump, for bringing back TikTok once he takes office.” [13:26]

The hosts critique the government's inconsistent stance and the impact on users, sharing personal frustrations about the temporary shutdown.

b. Busta Rhymes LA Fitness Incident

Celebrity Altercation at Gym
They discuss the incident involving rapper Busta Rhymes, who assaulted his assistant at an LA Fitness location, leading to legal consequences.

• Risque: “Busta Rhymes turned himself in to the police … misdemeanor assault, attempted assault and harassment.” [23:53]

• Crystal: “So for being on his phone, you think he was on TikTok?” [24:25]

The hosts debate the validity of Busta Rhymes' actions, questioning whether his assistant had a legitimate reason to be on the phone and condemning the physical assault.

c. AI-Generated MLK Image Controversy

Disrespectful AI Imagery
Sexyy Red posted an AI-generated image depicting her with Martin Luther King Jr., sparking backlash from Dr. Bernice King, MLK’s daughter.

• Risque: “It's her looking like that with Martin Luther King … disrespectful to my family.” [45:00]

• Crystal: “You thought it was innocent, you stupid bitch … disrespected her for being righteously upset.” [48:51]

The conversation highlights the importance of respecting historical figures and the sensitive nature of using AI in creating such images, condemning the disrespect shown by Sexyy Red.

6. Listener Letters: Relationship Advice

Navigating Complex Friendships and Relationships
A letter from Annie, a straight woman in her early 20s, seeks advice on rekindling a friendship with a former romantic partner amidst new allegations of abuse.

• Annie’s Dilemma:

  • Ends a complicated friendship with Sarah, who was accused of being abusive and scamming queer artists.
  • Expresses longing to re-establish the friendship despite past issues.
  • Struggles with grief from losing family during COVID-19.

• Risque and Crystal’s Response:

  • Risque: Advises Annie to prioritize her healing and consider that Sarah may still carry the same harmful behaviors despite therapy.

  • Crystal: Emphasizes the importance of not ignoring past manipulative behavior and suggests focusing on personal healing rather than risking returning to an unsafe friendship.

  • Risque: “Just refocus on unpacking the last bit of your letter and how you feel about that and the healthiest ways to heal.” [54:02]

  • Crystal: “I wouldn't lean on the fact that she's been … therapy … best of luck … safer than going back.” [55:28]

The hosts encourage Annie to prioritize her well-being and consider the credibility of past accusations before attempting to rekindle the friendship.

7. CTA and Announcements

Upcoming Events and Merchandise
The episode concludes with announcements about The Read’s upcoming 12-year anniversary show at the Beacon Theater in New York City and reminders to follow the show on social media and purchase merchandise.

• Crystal: “You can get tickets to our 12 year anniversary show at the readlive.com … have a fun time for all.” [105:08]

• Risque: “Follow me on patreon.com Kid Fury and we’ll see you next week.” [106:26]

Notable Quotes

• At [03:26]: Risque celebrates Marcus Freeman's achievement, stating, “He’s become the first black head coach to reach the college football finals.”

• At [13:26]: Risque criticizes the TikTok ban, remarking, “TikTok was shut down, and … thank you, Trump, for bringing back TikTok once he takes office.”

• At [24:25]: Crystal questions Busta Rhymes’ actions, asking, “So for being on his phone, you think he was on TikTok?”

• At [45:00]: Crystal condemns Sexyy Red, saying, “You thought it was innocent, you stupid bitch … disrespected her for being righteously upset.”

• At [54:02]: Risque advises Annie, “Just refocus on unpacking the last bit of your letter and how you feel about that and the healthiest ways to heal.”

Conclusion

In "LA Hitness," Kid Fury and Crissle deliver an engaging episode filled with insightful discussions on sports achievements, movie successes, TV show praises, and heated debates on recent pop culture controversies. From celebrating Marcus Freeman's groundbreaking role to criticizing disrespectful AI-generated imagery, the hosts provide a balanced mix of humor and critical analysis. Listener letters add a personal touch, offering relatable relationship advice. The episode wraps up with exciting announcements, inviting listeners to join in upcoming live events and engage with The Read community.

For more episodes and updates, follow The Read on website and social media.