We Talk Back Podcast: "What's Up With The YN's" – Episode Summary

Podcast Title: We Talk Back
Hosts: AJ Holiday & Tim Bam
Episode: What's Up With The YN's
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Produced By: The Black Effect and iHeartPodcasts

"We Talk Back," hosted by AJ Holiday and Tim Bam, is a vibrant podcast where two unapologetically Black women navigate the complexities of modern femininity with humor, candidness, and insightful discussions. In the episode titled "What's Up With The YN's," released on April 24, 2025, AJ and Tim delve into personal experiences, current events, and deep dives into relationships, offering listeners a blend of laughter and thoughtful conversation.

Table of Contents

1. Personal Updates and Weekend Recap
2. Navigating Health and Mental Well-being
3. Current Events: Shannon Sharpe's Lawsuit
4. The MeToo Movement and Trust Issues
5. Relationships and Dating Younger Men
6. Embracing Independence and Personal Growth
7. Philosophical Takeaways: Soulmates and Relationship Dynamics
8. Final Thoughts and Conclusions
9. Notable Quotes

Personal Updates and Weekend Recap

The episode begins with AJ Holiday and Tim Bam sharing their recent activities and personal updates. AJ recounts helping her friend Laquandra prepare for her upcoming baby, emphasizing the strength of supportive friendships.

AJ Holiday [04:07]: "We went over there and helped her unpack all her baby stuff and sanitize her baby bottles... I cannot wait for this dude to touch down little Cameron."

Tim shares his commitment to fitness, detailing his Easter weekend workout regimen, which includes a four-mile walk around the lake and some well-deserved relaxation.

Tim Bam [06:48]: "I did feel like I have a new level of clarity... lots of joy because of the exercising."

Navigating Health and Mental Well-being

The conversation shifts to health and mental well-being. Both hosts discuss the balance between physical fitness and mental clarity, highlighting how workouts contribute to their overall happiness and stability.

AJ Holiday [08:19]: "...it just clouds my judgment about everything else in life because I just feel like I gotta do that first."

Tim Bam [08:58]: "I've done all that God needed me to do to today."

Current Events: Shannon Sharpe's Lawsuit

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Shannon Sharpe's recent 50 million dollar lawsuit over alleged sexual assault accusations. AJ Holiday breaks down the details of the lawsuit, providing context and summarizing the key points of the civil complaint.

AJ Holiday [09:44]: "Shannon Sharp made headlines last week in connection with his pursuit of a nine figure podcast deal... this week he's facing an eight figure lawsuit."

Tim Bam shares his thoughts on the situation, expressing a mix of belief and skepticism regarding the motivations behind the lawsuit.

Tim Bam [11:20]: "I don't be one. Like when someone says they've been sexually assaulted, my instinct is to believe them. But... lately, it does seem like a money grab oftentimes."

The MeToo Movement and Trust Issues

The hosts delve into broader discussions about the MeToo movement, exploring the challenges of balancing belief in victims with concerns about potential misuse of allegations for financial gain. They reflect on historical cases like Harvey Weinstein's to illustrate the complexities involved.

AJ Holiday [12:32]: "I just don't think we should automatically believe women just because it's a woman saying that something happened to them. I think that's kind of dangerous."

Tim Bam [13:32]: "There was a time where I would have been like, what woman is gonna, you know, being naive to people's greed and like that. Like, what woman is lying about somebody? Believe. Believe her. That was my energy."

The conversation takes a humorous turn as they discuss the challenges in verifying accusations, particularly referencing behavioral anecdotes of well-known figures.

AJ Holiday [14:08]: "You would be lying if you were talking about Harvey Weinstein. Exactly. You don't have none."

Relationships and Dating Younger Men

A core segment of the episode revolves around relationships, specifically the dynamics of dating younger men versus older partners. This discussion is sparked by Tracee Ellis Ross's appearance on her podcast "Emo, IMO," where she discusses her preference for younger men due to perceived openness and emotional availability.

AJ Holiday [27:19]: "Did you watch it, Sam?"

Tim Bam [27:20]: "I did watch it. I thought it was interesting what, you know, Tracee Ellis Ross had to say about how men of her generation had a certain level of toxic masculinity..."

They explore the concept of toxic masculinity, generational differences in relationship expectations, and how these factors influence dating choices.

Tim Bam [29:00]: "So it may consider why I don't typically date men older than me."

Embracing Independence and Personal Growth

Reflecting on Tracee Ellis Ross's insights, AJ and Tim discuss the importance of independence and personal growth. They emphasize that embracing one's own journey is crucial, even when traditional relationship milestones like marriage and children aren't part of one's immediate plans.

AJ Holiday [35:00]: "She expressed occasional grief over not having married or had children... but she affirmed her commitment with her life."

AJ Holiday [44:28]: "Love does not always include chemistry. Just because you have chemistry... does not equate to a relationship."

Philosophical Takeaways: Soulmates and Relationship Dynamics

The hosts engage in a philosophical debate about the notion of soulmates and whether there's someone for everyone. They consider statistical possibilities, personal experiences, and societal beliefs, ultimately pondering whether relationships are about finding the "perfect" match or fostering mutual growth and understanding.

AJ Holiday [40:24]: "Statistically speaking, with billions of people, odds are there are many people who could be compatible with you."

Tim Bam [43:45]: "Because married men will tell you all day long how they benefit, probably wives."

Final Thoughts and Conclusions

As the episode draws to a close, AJ and Tim reiterate the importance of self-love, personal growth, and realistic expectations in relationships. They encourage listeners to focus on their own well-being and to remain open to possibilities, even if traditional relationship paths aren't immediately visible.

AJ Holiday [55:37]: "Who wouldn't want to have her? We'll never know. Like, look at Halle Berry. Halle Berry has had so many husbands. She in love again right now."

Tim Bam [56:36]: "We talk about non monogamy a lot ad nauseam on. We talk back. And is that more reasonable?"

Notable Quotes

• AJ Holiday [04:07]: "We went over there and helped her unpack all her baby stuff and sanitize her baby bottles... I cannot wait for this dude to touch down little Cameron."

• Tim Bam [06:48]: "I did feel like I have a new level of clarity... lots of joy because of the exercising."

• AJ Holiday [08:19]: "...it just clouds my judgment about everything else in life because I just feel like I gotta do that first."

• Tim Bam [11:20]: "I don't be one. Like when someone says they've been sexually assaulted, my instinct is to believe them. But... lately, it does seem like a money grab oftentimes."

• AJ Holiday [12:32]: "I just don't think we should automatically believe women just because it's a woman saying that something happened to them. I think that's kind of dangerous."

• AJ Holiday [35:00]: "She expressed occasional grief over not having married or had children... but she affirmed her commitment with her life."

• AJ Holiday [44:28]: "Love does not always include chemistry. Just because you have chemistry... does not equate to a relationship."

Conclusion:
In "What's Up With The YN's," AJ Holiday and Tim Bam offer a refreshing blend of humor, honesty, and insightful commentary on personal growth, relationships, and societal issues. Their candid discussions encourage listeners to reflect on their own lives, embrace independence, and approach relationships with a balanced perspective. Whether you're navigating the sea of modern relationships or seeking a bit of levity and wisdom, this episode provides valuable takeaways and relatable conversation.

Tune in to "We Talk Back" every Thursday on the Black Effect iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts for more engaging discussions.