The Read Podcast - Episode: "The Matriarch" (Feat. Ms. Tina Knowles)
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Hosts: Kifiri (Kid Fury) and Crystal (Crissle)
Featured Guest: Ms. Tina Knowles
Platform: LoudSpeakers Network

1. Celebrating Black Excellence

Dominique Malanga - Trailblazing in the WNBA
Kifiri opens the episode by highlighting Dominique Malanga, the youngest player ever drafted into the WNBA at just 19 years old. Selected as the second overall pick by the Seattle Storm, Dominique stands tall at six feet six inches, bringing impressive stats to the court.

Quote:
"She's averaging 15.4 points this season, 10.3 rebounds, and 1 1/2 assists. Congratulations, Dominique." (02:08)

Crystal adds her admiration for Dominique's charm and Cameroonian heritage, emphasizing her potential impact on the Storm.

Quote:
"She's Cameroonian. Her little French accent... she is going to go to the Storm and start whipping you bitches asses." (02:56)

Naomi Girma - Pioneering in Women's Soccer
The discussion shifts to Naomi Girma, who at 24 becomes the first female soccer player to secure a million-dollar contract. Her four-year deal with Chelsea Women Football Club includes a staggering $1.1 million transfer fee, setting a new benchmark in the sport.

Quote:
"At just 24 years young, Naomi Girma has become the first million dollar player in women's football, soccer as they call it here." (03:55)

Crystal expresses her surprise at the magnitude of Naomi's contract, noting the growing popularity of women's soccer.

Quote:
"I'm shocked that nobody's ever had a contract that large. Women's soccer is so popular. I'm shocked." (04:32)

2. Pop Culture Deep Dive: "Sinners" Movie Review

Initial Impressions and Emotional Impact
Crystal shares her profound experience watching "Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler. Despite its limited theatrical release in only eight U.S. theaters, the film left a lasting impression on both hosts.

Quote:
"I cannot stop thinking about it." (06:36)

Kifiri echoes Crystal's sentiment, expressing eagerness to rewatch the film to catch missed details.

Analyzing Themes and Storytelling
The hosts delve into the movie's intricate storytelling, highlighting its blend of supernatural elements with deep-rooted black cultural themes. They discuss how the protagonist, Sammy, uses music to conjure spirits, symbolizing the healing of ancestral trauma.

Quote:
"Sammy starts to sing and conjure these spirits... I cried." (09:15)

Crystal praises the film's portrayal of diverse cultures in 1930s Mississippi, emphasizing the seamless integration of music genres and historical context.

Character Analysis and Memorable Scenes
Ms. Tina Knowles introduces key characters, notably Annie, whose fierce and protective nature becomes pivotal in the storyline. The hosts commend the casting choices, particularly Delroy Lindo's performance as a complex character navigating loss and vengeance.

Quote:
"The cast is incredible... Delroy Lindo was just the entire cast." (11:38)

They recount specific scenes, such as the juke joint performance where Sammy's music becomes a conduit for spiritual healing, and Annie's confrontational approach to the invading vampires.

Quote:
"Annie is so caring... she remains so calm and collected while everyone else is panicking." (26:18)

3. Special Guest Interview: Ms. Tina Knowles on "Matriarch"

Introduction to "Matriarch"
Ms. Tina Knowles joins the podcast to discuss her book "Matriarch," delving into themes of motherhood, mental health, and familial relationships. She shares personal anecdotes that shaped her perspective on parenting and self-worth.

Navigating Motherhood and Mental Health
Tina speaks candidly about her experiences growing up, addressing how unrecognized conditions like ADHD led to misunderstandings and labeling as "bad." She emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting children's unique needs.

Quote:
"They just took it as acting up... you have to really notice your kids and do the research." (68:14)

Forgiveness and Healing Through Therapy
The conversation turns to mental health therapies like EMDR, which helped Tina process past traumas and rebuild her relationship with her mother. She highlights the significance of forgiveness and self-acceptance in healing.

Quote:
"EMDR allowed me to see where the feelings of not being worthy came from... I was able to have a conversation with my mom and forgive her." (84:44)

Legacy and Supporting the Next Generation
Tina reflects on her role as a mother, striving to support her children without imposing fear-based protection. She contrasts her approach with her own mother's passive protection, aiming to empower her daughters to pursue their dreams.

Quote:
"That's why I love both sides of the argument... support your kids no matter what." (104:53)

The Importance of Authenticity in Storytelling
Tina discusses the authentic voice in her memoir, thanks to her collaborator Kevin O'Leary, who preserved her natural speech patterns and cultural expressions. This authenticity makes the narrative relatable and impactful.

Quote:
"He loves the way I talk... it's like reliving those moments." (78:24)

4. Addressing Controversies: Shannon Sharpe's Legal Issues

Allegations and Public Response
Later in the episode, Kifiri and Crystal address recent allegations against Shannon Sharpe, condemning his actions and expressing frustration with the situation's handling by media outlets.

Quote:
"A 50-something-year-old man fighting to hold on to a 20-year-old girl is... everything about it is gross." (115:38)

Critique of Media Framing and Industry Standards
They critique how media outlets like Variety sensationalize negative headlines, especially concerning original films' box office performances. The hosts also draw parallels to similar behaviors observed in industry responses to scandals.

Quote:
"They have a ways to go before they make up their budget... completely different how you approach movies." (109:18)

Emphasis on Consent and Power Dynamics
The discussion underscores the importance of recognizing consent and the inherent power imbalances in relationships where significant age differences exist.

Quote:
"A 50-something-year-old man fighting to hold on to a 20-year-old girl is... everything about it is gross." (115:38)

5. Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations

Final Endorsements and Takeaways
Kifiri and Crystal reiterate their strong endorsement of "Sinners," encouraging listeners to watch the film despite its graphic content due to its profound storytelling and cultural significance.

Quote:
"It's an excellent movie. Go see 'Sinners'." (58:48)

They also commend Ms. Tina Knowles for her impactful book "Matriarch," urging listeners to read it for its valuable insights into motherhood and personal growth.

Quote:
"Ms. Tina Knowles, I can't say thank you enough for blessing The Read with your presence today." (130:25)

Closing Remarks
The hosts wrap up the episode by promoting upcoming content and expressing gratitude towards their guest and listeners.

Quote:
"Take care of yourselves." (131:25)

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dominique Malanga's Achievement:
  "She's averaging 15.4 points this season, 10.3 rebounds and 1 1/2 assists. Congratulations, Dominique." (02:08)

• Naomi Girma's Contract:
  "At just 24 years young, Naomi Girma has become the first million dollar player in women's football, soccer as they call it here." (03:55)

• Crystal on "Sinners":
  "I cannot stop thinking about it." (06:36)
  "Her character was really amazing and just so important." (25:52)

• Tina Knowles on Forgiveness:
  "Through EMDR, I saw the nuns and I was like... I was able to have a conversation with my mom and forgive her." (84:44)

• Shannon Sharpe Condemnation:
  "A 50-something-year-old man fighting to hold on to a 20-year-old girl is... everything about it is gross." (115:38)

Summary:
In this episode of "The Read," hosts Kifiri and Crystal celebrate notable achievements in sports, review the culturally rich horror film "Sinners," and engage in an insightful interview with Ms. Tina Knowles discussing her memoir "Matriarch." The episode navigates themes of black excellence, cultural heritage, mental health, and familial relationships, providing listeners with a blend of entertainment and profound discussions. Additionally, the hosts address recent controversies in the media landscape, emphasizing the importance of consent and ethical storytelling. The episode concludes with strong endorsements for both the film and Tina Knowles' book, encouraging listeners to engage with content that promotes understanding and empowerment.