In this clip from Black Out with Ian & Rashad, Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap dive deep into the viral "quarter zip" trend that’s sweeping social media—and stirring up controversy. Rashad shares how the trend started as an alternative to the ubiquitous Nike Tech tracksuits, and highlights its proponents’ view: that switching to quarter zips is about elevating style and self-presentation among young Black men. He even gives a shoutout to Councilman Kevin Riley for putting him onto the topic!

But not everyone is on board. The hosts play a counter argument from another voice in the community who calls the trend "anti-Black," critiquing the implication that elegance and respectability are tied to switching clothing styles. This guest points out that Black excellence comes in millions of forms and warns against further policing of what "acceptable" Black masculinity looks like.

Rashad and Ian both weigh in with personal anecdotes, touching on why appearance matters, and how certain streetwear trends sometimes leave them feeling uncomfortable or unsafe. From the infamous "Pooh Shiesty mask era" to Miami strip club stories, they explore how fashion, identity, and perception intersect.

This lively conversation brings out two sides of the ongoing debate: Is the quarter zip movement truly about self-improvement, or is it unintentionally reinforcing harmful stereotypes? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions with Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap.

#BlackOutPodcast #QuarterZip #NikeTech #BlackCulture #FashionDebate #RashadBilal #IanDunlap #RespectabilityPolitics #Streetwear #ViralTrends #ElevateYourStyle #CommunityConversation

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In this powerful clip from Black Out with Ian & Rashad, Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap sit down with Dr. Jay Barnett for a deep, honest conversation about mental health challenges facing Black men—especially those linked to identity, sports, and success. Dr. Jay Barnett opens up about his personal experiences with suicide attempts and the struggle to rediscover purpose after a career in football ended. The discussion sheds light on how the loss of brotherhood, structure, and community can lead to struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, while also highlighting the importance of connection, therapy, and building supportive relationships.

Rashad Bilal shares how financial literacy and mental health have recently risen in importance within the Black community, emphasizing their intersection. Dr. Jay Barnett stresses the impact of losing one's identity and the sense of belonging that team sports provide, underscoring how these changes can leave many men isolated with unhealthy thoughts. The trio explore the transactional nature of sports, the emptiness that follows, and the pressure placed on successful Black men to uplift everyone around them—touching on survivor's guilt and the unique weight they often carry.

Ian Dunlap brings up seasonal depression, asking Dr. Jay Barnett for practical tips for surviving the holidays, when feelings of loneliness and grief can increase. Dr. Jay Barnett urges listeners to seek out community, get moving, spend time outdoors, and build new connections even if family isn't always available or supportive. He also discusses the importance of vitamin D, particularly for Black people during winter months.

If you've ever struggled with identity, loneliness, or depression, or simply want better tools for yourself and your loved ones, this clip is a must-watch. It’s a raw, compassionate look at the journey to healing, resilience, and the strength found in brotherhood. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking growth and understanding, Rashad, Ian, and Dr. Jay offer hope and guidance for navigating life's toughest moments.

**Hashtags:**

#MentalHealthMatters #BlackMenHeal #Brotherhood #DepressionAwareness #SuicidePrevention #FinancialLiteracy #CommunitySupport #Resilience #SeasonalDepression #Therapy #BlackOutPodcast #IanDunlap #RashadBilal #DrJayBarnett

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This week on Black Out, we opened with the quarter-zip and matcha trend taking over social media and debated whether it’s harmless aesthetics or subtly anti-Black. We also broke down the FBI offering $5 million for the woman accused of stealing $4.5 billion in crypto, Steph Curry parting ways with Under Armour, the resurfacing Epstein files, and whether MTG is gearing up for a presidential run as the MAGA movement shows signs of fracturing.

Dr. Jay Barnett joined us for an important and emotional conversation about mental health, including suicide among Black men, the growing weight of seasonal depression, and whether success today requires more optionality than ever before. We discussed how to find a qualified therapist, who truly needs therapy, the difference between sharing and disclosing, and the toll America continues to take on our emotional well-being.

We wrapped the episode with relationship talk — from The Game admitting he loses sleep over misleading women to Kevin Samuels’ controversial claim that “women love men who cheat.” Plus, we uncovered why many Chinese households avoid microwaves and tackled the big life questions: marriage, kids, family, and whether it’s ever too late to redefine your life.

#BlackOut #EarnYourLeisure #DrJayBarnett #MentalHealth #BlackMenAndMentalHealth #SeasonalDepression #CryptoNews #FBI #StephCurry #EpsteinFiles #Politics #MAGA #Therapy #Relationships #CultureTalk #EYL

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In this powerful clip from Black Out with Ian & Rashad, Rashad Bilal, Ian Dunlap, and guest commentator Sebastian Telfair dive deep into Sebastian Telfair’s life—from being a New York basketball legend and NBA draft pick, to his return to the projects and his current challenges.

The conversation starts with Sebastian Telfair candidly walking viewers through his childhood home, reflecting on the mental and emotional challenges of his environment and the reality of life after professional sports. Rashad Bilal highlights Telfair’s iconic status in New York, from his early days on the court to being featured on Sports Illustrated with LeBron James, and the staggering transition from multimillion-dollar deals to personal struggles.

Ian Dunlap brings a nuanced perspective on the financial pitfalls athletes frequently encounter, examining the impact of divorce, lack of financial literacy, and targeted mismanagement. The hosts discuss why it’s much harder to keep wealth than to earn it, especially before the widespread availability of financial education.

This clip isn’t just a look at one man’s journey—it’s a discussion on systemic issues in sports, money management, and mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for grace, empathy, and education inside and outside the game. The team even ponders bringing panels on divorce and wealth retention to Invest Fest, highlighting how personal crises tie into larger conversations about generational finance and legacy.

Tune in to hear real talk about overcoming adversity, learning from past mistakes, and building financial discipline in the modern era. Whether you’re a fan of basketball, passionate about financial literacy, or just love stories of resilience, this clip delivers crucial insights and inspiration.

🙏 Prayers up to Bastion and all athletes facing similar journeys.

**Hashtags:**

#BlackOutPodcast #SebastianTelfair #FinancialLiteracy #NBAStories #InvestFest #MentalHealth #SportsLegends #BrooklynBasketball #MoneyManagement #LifeAfterSports

Watch now and join the conversation!

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In this thought-provoking clip of *Black Out with Ian & Rashad*, Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap break down Donald Trump’s headline-grabbing proposal for a 50-year mortgage. Would a mortgage plan stretching across half a century actually help homebuyers—or is it just another win for the banks? Rashad and Ian don’t just debate the policy; they get real about how most Americans use their homes, why people rarely stay the full 30 years, and how monthly payments might change with a longer loan term.

Rashad argues there’s a strategy here: use a lower monthly payment to get a foot in the door, build equity, and plan your exit from day one. Ian, meanwhile, gets straight to the point: these mortgage products are designed to benefit the banks, not the buyers—and without discipline, most folks won’t invest their savings but instead boost their lifestyle spending. The conversation weaves through home appreciation, investing strategies, and why every homeowner needs an exit plan before they even move in.

Whether you’re thinking about buying, already own a home, or just want to know how today’s policies might affect your wallet, don’t miss this honest, practical take. Hit play, and join the discussion! Would you take a 50-year mortgage if it meant you could afford the home you really want? Or is it a wealth-building pitfall? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

**Hashtags:**

#RealEstate #TrumpMortgage #BlackOutPodcast #RashadBilal #IanDunlap #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #HomeOwnership #MortgageTips #FinancialLiteracy

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In this fiery clip from "Black Out with Ian & Rashad," Paul Pierce drops a controversial bombshell: to really know if your partner loves you, you should cheat to test them. The conversation heats up as Rashad Bilal comments, Paul Pierce and Co-Host break down this idea, passionately debating whether cheating is ever a legitimate "test" of love or just emotional abuse.

Rashad Bilal and Co-Host push back hard, highlighting the damage such tests can cause and discussing healthier ways to find out if someone is truly invested in a relationship. They touch on how life naturally brings trials—no need to manufacture heartbreak—and explore whether getting through adversity (like cheating) can ever make a relationship stronger. Rashad Bilal also shares candid insights about vulnerability in relationships, addressing why so many men struggle to open up and whether it's rooted in upbringing or the dynamics with their partner.

This raw and unfiltered conversation gets to the heart of modern dating, self-esteem, and the realities of love in today’s world. Hear the full debate, laughs, and real talk that make "Black Out with Ian & Rashad" stand out. Don’t forget to drop your thoughts in the comments: Is there ever a "right" test for love? Do trials really bring growth—or only pain?

**Subscribe for more honest conversations, real stories, and unfiltered relationship advice from your favorite hosts and guests!**

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Timestamps

00:04:00 – Sebastian Telfair’s Downfall: Lessons on financial failure and how to avoid the same mistakes

00:14:01 – Trump’s Proposed 50-Year Mortgage: Good idea or disaster?

00:14:01 – If You Were Max B’s Manager… What Should His First Move Be?

00:26:40 – Westside Gunn Removed From WWE: Why It’s Dangerous to Build a Brand You Don’t Own

00:37:15 – Paul Pierce’s Wild Advice

00:45:35 – Why Is It So Hard to Open Up in a Relationship? Upbringing vs. Partner

00:50:15 – Anduril Founder on H-1B Abuse: “It’s a Scam to Replace US Workers With Slave Labor”

00:55:00 – What Needs Fixing in America

01:05:50 – Thoughts on Nico Harrison Being Fired

01:09:30 – Who Is Bigger Than “The Program”?

01:12:00 – Lessons From Dubai

01:13:30 – The Billionaire Visa Card

⸻

Description

On this week’s episode of Black Out, we dive deep into culture, relationships, money, and the mindset needed to navigate today’s world. We break down Sebastian Telfair’s fall from grace and the financial lessons everyone should learn. We talk about Trump’s proposed 50-year mortgage, the importance of owning your brand, and what Max B’s next move should be if you were in charge.

From relationships and emotional vulnerability to America’s biggest structural issues, we discuss the questions most people are afraid to ask. We also cover wild takes from Paul Pierce, the controversy around H-1B visas, and whether Nico Harrison’s firing was justified. The episode closes out with lessons learned in Dubai and the mysterious “Billionaire Visa Card.”

Tap in with us — real talk, no filters.

⸻

#BlackOut #EarnYourLeisure #RashadBilal #Culture #MoneyTalks #Relationships #Finance #BusinessMindset #TrendingTopics #PodcastClip #WestsideGunn #SebastianTelfair #Trump #NicoHarrison #Dubai

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In this provocative clip from Black Out with Ian & Rashad, Rashad Bilal and guest Conscious Lee dive deep into the ongoing debate within Black culture around intellectualism, elitism, and influence. The discussion kicks off with an exploration of how some community platforms and voices now challenge traditional Black intellectuals, labeling them as elitist and disconnected from everyday realities. Conscious Lee, drawing inspiration from Carter G. Woodson’s work, examines the divide between the "ivory tower" and the streets, pressing the urgent need to bridge this gap.

Together, Rashad Bilal and Conscious Lee reflect on how issues of class, language, and identity create barriers—not only between Black intellectuals and the masses but within broader conversations on gender and sexuality. They break down how cultural capital and social influence are shifting: in today’s social media climate, influencers without traditional credentials (like Gillian Wallow) can wield more power than well-known intellectuals, fundamentally redefining whose voices matter most.

The conversation gets real about how anti-intellectualism shows up, especially when polarized debates around race, class, and gender hit the mainstream. Conscious Lee offers honest self-reflection on benefiting from elitism, without shying away from tough truths on identity and acceptance in the community. Together they unpack how conservatives and progressives alike weaponize anti-intellectual rhetoric to maintain the status quo—particularly when trans lives and issues become political flashpoints.

Finally, the clip considers why topics like trans rights get outsized attention—even though they affect less than 1% of the population—and how this can distract from urgent community needs like jobs, incarceration, and education. Rashad and Conscious Lee lay bare the strategic narratives shaping how Black voters are engaged (or ignored) by mainstream politics, urging honest dialogue and unity to challenge divisive systems.

If you’re interested in the intersections of culture, politics, identity, and influence in Black America, this clip is a must-watch!

**Hashtags:**

#BlackOutPodcast #Intellectualism #Elitism #Influence #BlackCulture #TransRights #PoliticalStrategy #CulturalCapital #CommunityVoices #SocialJustice #IdentityPolitics #Clip

Watch, subscribe, and join the conversation!

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In this powerful clip from Black Out with Ian & Rashad, hosts Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap sit down with guest Conscious Lee to unpack the truths and misconceptions surrounding SNAP benefits (food stamps) in America. The conversation dives deep into how close most working people are to needing public assistance, debunking the myth that only “lazy” individuals rely on government support.

Conscious Lee breaks down the economic realities for millions of Americans—even those working for major companies like Amazon and Walmart—and reveals how many of their employees still qualify for SNAP. The discussion takes a hard look at the class divides that pit communities against each other and highlights how racial biases distort public empathy and media narratives around poverty and assistance.

From stories of essential workers to the stigmas faced by Black families, the hosts challenge listeners to examine their assumptions and recognize how policy decisions around SNAP affect everyone—not just those directly receiving aid. They shed light on how government shutdowns ripple across communities, impacting everything from TSA wait times to the morale of workers in all industries.

Plus, get critical context on how viral AI videos and sensationalized media continue to paint an inaccurate picture of SNAP users, ignoring the fact that the true face of government assistance spans race, class, and employment status. Conscious Lee shares his own experiences to drive home how close many of us truly are to needing help, and why empathy should replace judgment in these conversations.

Whether you’ve never thought about SNAP or you’ve dealt with it firsthand, this clip is essential listening for anyone who wants to better understand the interconnected struggles and stories behind food insecurity in America.

**Tune in for:**

- Real stories and statistics on SNAP benefits

- The economic reality for essential workers

- Class, race, and media pathologies around public assistance

- Empathy versus stigma in conversations about poverty

- The real impact of government shutdowns on everyday life

Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for new clips featuring deep dives on politics, economics, and culture every week!

**Hashtags:** 

#SNAPBenefits #FoodStamps #BlackOutPodcast #ClassDivide #FoodInsecurity #EssentialWorkers #RacialBias #MediaMyths #Empathy #GovernmentShutdown #EconomicReality #PodcastClip #RashadBilal #IanDunlap #ConsciousLee

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In this week’s episode of Black Out, we dive deep into some of the most thought-provoking and entertaining conversations yet. From reliving the best era ever — Atlanta during the pandemic — to exploring the psychology of insecurity, the SNAP benefits debate, and the divide between Black elitism and influence culture, this one covers it all.

We’re joined by the always insightful Conscious Lee, who helps unpack complex issues around identity, trans discourse, and the origins of anti-Blackness. The crew also tackles the state of Venezuela, global conflicts, and what’s next for our generation.

Every segment blends intellect, honesty, and humor — exactly what Black Out is known for.

#BlackOutPodcast #EarnYourLeisure #ConsciousLee #AtlantaDuringCovid #SNAPBenefits #BlackElitism #InfluenceCulture #TransDebate #AntiBlackness #MentalHealth #KD #Venezuela #IdentityDebate #CulturalConversation #BlackExcellence

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