In this insightful clip from Blackout, Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap dive deep into the heated topic: "Are men the prize in today’s relationships?" The conversation kicks off with a wild Floyd Mayweather story, setting the stage for a candid discussion about the dynamics between men and women, value in partnerships, and who brings what to the table.

Rashad and Ian break down common relationship narratives—challenging the idea that only women are “the prize” and arguing that men, especially those who have put in the work to become high-value, can also be considered the prize. They dissect situations where a man’s achievements, financial status, and personal growth dramatically shift the dynamics of a relationship.

The hosts don’t shy away from complicated questions:

- How should partners recognize and respect each other’s uniqueness and value?

- What responsibilities do successful men (and women) have in choosing and treating their partners?

- Why is it problematic to devalue men or ignore what they bring to the relationship?

Through real-life examples, humor, and unfiltered honesty, Rashad and Ian encourage listeners to reflect on their own relationships, expectations, and what it means to truly be “the prize.” They remind viewers that value isn’t just about money—it includes character, ambition, and the intangible qualities someone brings into your life.

Whether you agree or disagree, this thought-provoking conversation will have you questioning traditional dating roles and what healthy appreciation looks like in a modern partnership.

Drop your thoughts in the comments! Are men, women, or both the prize in a relationship? Who got it right—Rashad or Ian?

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations on life, money, and culture.

#BlackoutMed #RelationshipTalk #RashadBilal #IanDunlap #MenAreThePrize #HighValueMen #DatingAdvice #ModernRelationships #PodcastClip #ValueInRelationships #MoneyAndRelationships

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this insightful clip from Black Out, Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap dig deep into a topic that surprises many: how families making $500,000 a year can still be scraping to get by. They break down the hidden costs that come with high earnings—from taxes and housing to childcare, extracurriculars, college tuition, and the relentless pressure of lifestyle creep.

Rashad shares a recent article about a “struggling rich” family pulling in half a million dollars annually but feeling financially squeezed. Together, Rashad and Ian reveal why the tax system disproportionately impacts high-earning employees, and how expenses skyrocket as your environment changes. Fancy neighborhoods mean higher mortgages or rent, plus premium-priced camps, activities, and daycares that can rival some people’s rent or mortgage payments.

They discuss the real price tag of raising kids in an upper-middle-class environment—private trainers, travel teams, tutoring, and more. And for parents, there’s no escaping the ballooning costs of regular living: car payments, groceries, insurance, and those necessary vacations just to unplug. As Ian points out, nearly every industry feels like it’s become premium or luxury, raising the baseline cost for families who just want to provide the best.

The conversation hits home with the realization that while a $500K salary is substantial, those earnings can slip away fast, especially when college costs upwards of $70,000 per year and most financial aid is out of reach for high earners. Even with diligent planning, high earners can feel just a couple of paychecks away from trouble, especially if they lack real wealth-building assets like real estate or investments.

This clip isn’t just for the rich—it’s a must-watch if you’re on the path to higher earnings, thinking about your family’s future, or simply curious why “making it” isn’t as simple as earning a big paycheck. Rashad and Ian’s honest, relatable discussion uncovers the real economics of “making it” in today’s world and why even half a million isn’t what it used to be.

🔔 **Subscribe for more real talk on wealth, investing, and financial success!**

👍 Like, comment, and share if this conversation changed how you see high-earner struggles.

**Timestamps:**

0:00 – Introduction to “lifestyle creep” & struggling high earners

2:00 – How taxes affect high-income employees

3:00 – Escalating expenses: housing, childcare, activities

5:00 – Extracurriculars, trainers, and academic costs

6:45 – Inflation and premium living costs

8:30 – The college tuition trap

10:00 – What “struggling rich” really means

10:44 – Cost of raising kids in America

11:30 – Why building wealth is harder than ever

**Hashtags:**

#MarketMondays #StrugglingRich #FinancialReality #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #LifestyleCreep #HighEarnerProblems #FamilyFinance #CostOfLiving #MoneyTalks #FinanceClip #EconomicReality #RealWealth #Investing #FinancialEducation

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week on Black Out, we dive into the financial trap of being a HENRY — High Earner, Not Rich Yet — and explore whether lifestyle creep is keeping people broke. The crew debates an audience question: should child support be replaced with stock investments? Ian shares a recent “FU money” purchase, and we break down Paul Pierce’s hot take that marriage is only for the old and broke. From there, we ask the age-old question: why do men think they’re the prize? Plus, we dissect luxury culture in “What the Birkin?” and reveal where the real “Trick Capital” might be.

We also react to the Met Gala, introduce the wild concept of “Pope Donald the First,” and ask a spicy question for next week: would you date someone who follows your ex on social media? Other topics include becoming vulnerable enough to receive good deeds, Florida banning fluoride, the scandal involving Kohl’s CEO misusing company money for his side chick, and a wild theory that all kids might have different dads. Buckle up—this one’s a ride.

Link to Invest Fest: https://investfest.com

Timestamps:

4:00 – Lifestyle Creep Unpacked (“HENRY” – High Earner, Not Rich Yet)

15:50 – Audience Question: Child support or stock brokerage account?

19:00 – Ian’s FU Money purchase?

24:40 – Paul Pierce: “Marriage is for old and broke people”

29:00 – Why do men think they’re the prize?

41:00 – What the Birkin?

45:00 – Where is the “Trick Capital”?

47:40 – Met Gala Recap

49:45 – “Pope Donald The First”

53:00 – Next Week’s Question: Dating someone who follows your ex?

56:00 – How do we become vulnerable enough to accept good deeds?

1:07:40 – Florida bans fluoride

1:10:25 – Kohl’s CEO Scandal: Side chick funded by corporate cash

1:16:45 – The theory that all kids have different parents

#BlackOutPodcast #LifestyleCreep #ChildSupportDebate #PaulPierce #LuxuryCulture #TrickCapital #MetaGala #PopeDonald #KohlsScandal #FloridaNews #ParentingTheories #Relationships #MensPerspective #HotTakes

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this eye-opening clip from Blackout, hosts Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap take a deep dive into the ongoing Shannon Sharpe situation that has been making headlines. The conversation doesn’t just cover the controversy—it unpacks the complex lessons we all can take away about risk, reputation, and personal discipline in the public eye.

Rashad and Ian engage in a raw and honest discussion, highlighting why certain choices can quickly spiral into major issues, especially for high-profile individuals like Shannon Sharpe. They address the many warning signs and red flags surrounding the situation, including the age gap, racial optics, the dangers of technology, and the high stakes of reputation management in today’s media environment.

This clip isn’t about passing judgment—it’s a teachable moment for anyone trying to navigate fame, relationships, or the risky world of social media and public engagement. The hosts break down why “mitigating risk” should be a priority, not an afterthought, pointing out the vulnerabilities that come with success and the importance of surrounding yourself with trustworthy people.

Key discussion points:

- Why public figures need to be extra cautious in their personal choices.

- The traps and setups that can come with fame, social media, and relationships.

- The value of discretion—what you say and do in private can quickly become public.

- The underestimated dangers of risky relationships and why discipline is everything.

- Practical advice for protecting your reputation in today’s digital age.

Whether you’re a fan of Shannon Sharpe, interested in celebrity culture, or just looking for smart life advice, this Blackout Med #1 clip delivers a nuanced and candid exploration of a situation that's about much more than headlines.

Hit the like button, subscribe for more real talk, and let us know in the comments—what lessons did you take away from this discussion?

**Hashtags:**

#ShannonSharpe #BlackoutMed #RiskManagement #PublicFigure #LifeLessons #Reputation #PodcastClip #ViralNews #CelebrityCulture #RealTalk

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode of Black Out opens with a raw question from the audience: How do you fall out of love with a co-worker you see every day? That vulnerability sets the tone for a wide-ranging conversation covering love, emotional discipline, and the complexities of modern relationships. From heartbreak in the workplace to the chaos of NIL deals, we didn’t hold back. We also broke down the viral Shedeur Sanders situation, Quinn Ewers turning down $8M, and the latest plot twist surrounding Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré and alleged American involvement.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Black Out without a few wild hypotheticals and unfiltered opinions. We debated if 100 men could take down a silverback gorilla, exposed the Trump–Columbus conspiracy theory, and asked hard questions like: Are healthy relationships boring? and What would you pay to be with a woman? We also dove into deeper social topics like what predicts the success of children, rules for running into your ex, and what it means to restore balance in today’s relationships.

We closed the episode by asking a big one: What’s the one thing you’d fix to save America? This conversation is honest, entertaining, and at times, uncomfortably real. If you’re looking for substance with humor, edge, and cultural clarity — this one’s for you. Tap in, leave a comment, and join the tribe.

Link to New Haven Book Tour Event:

https://sites.prh.com/you-deserve-to-be-rich

#BlackOutPodcast #Relationships #NIL #ShedeurSanders #ShannonSharpe #TrumpConspiracy #DatingDebates #ModernLove #PodcastClips #ViralTopics #CulturalCommentary #Entrepreneurship #EmotionalIntelligence #MentalHealth #RealTalk

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this thought-provoking clip, Kev On Stage, Rashad Bilal, and Ian Dunlap dive into the conversation sparked by the viral idea that $1,200, $2,500, or even $5,000 is “not real money” anymore. Kev shares his personal perspective on what “real money” means in today’s world, reflecting on how any amount that helps cover bills is significant for most Americans. The hosts recall the days when even $1,000 felt life-changing and discuss how rising living costs have shifted our views on money.

Kev On Stage keeps it real, bringing humor and authenticity as he points out that paying bills with found money is proof it’s “real.” Rashad Bilal and Ian Dunlap weigh both sides of the argument, exploring how perceptions shift over time and as financial responsibilities grow. Ian also provides a reality check: the dollar’s lost purchasing power and soaring rents have changed what different amounts of money can truly do for us.

Whether you remember when $5,000 felt like a fortune, or you’re grappling with how far your paycheck stretches today, this conversation challenges us all to re-examine what “real money” means in our own lives. Join the discussion and let us know in the comments—what amount would make a real difference for you today?

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more honest takes on finance, entrepreneurship, and real-life money matters!

**#MoneyTalk #FinancialReality #KevOnStage #HonestConversations #Entrepreneurship #CostOfLiving #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #RealMoney #BillMoney #Economy #Inflation #FinanceClip**

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Black Out, we tackle the complex issues shaping our society today. We begin with a deep dive into the rise in autism rates and the growing questions surrounding environmental and systemic factors. We also explore whether alcohol consumption has finally peaked, signaling a shift in generational values and lifestyle choices. The conversation then moves into dating culture—what’s driving the generational gap in relationships, and is location sharing with your partner a form of trust or a red flag?

We also explore the economic red flags many ignore. Why did 60% of Coachella attendees finance their tickets—and what does that say about our obsession with lifestyle over long-term wealth? We discuss Palantir’s launch of its own version of college, raising concerns over privatized education and data control. For those thinking globally, we share the top 3 countries to consider for dual citizenship, giving you options for financial and personal freedom.

To close out the episode, we unpack whether billionaires have truly destroyed America, and if their influence has gone too far. We break down the $50M lawsuit against Shannon Sharpe—is Tony Buzbee reaching or does he have a case? With the passing of Pope Francis, we also examine the real possibility of a Black Pope and what that could mean globally. And we wrap up with a spotlight on the Top King Makers pulling the strings in business, politics, and culture.

Link to New Haven Book Tour Event: 

https://sites.prh.com/you-deserve-to-be-rich

#BlackOutPod #AutismAwareness #AlcoholTrends #DatingCulture #LocationSharing #PalantirCollege #CoachellaDebt #DualCitizenship #ShannonSharpe #BlackPope #BillionaireImpact #KingMakers #CulturalConversation #SocietyUnfiltered

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this powerful clip from Blackout, Angela Rye joins Ian Dunlap and Rashad Bilal for an unfiltered discussion on confronting today's political regimes, the erosion of DEI initiatives, and the escalating threat of white supremacy in America. Angela Rye breaks down actionable solutions for the Black diaspora—highlighting the strength found in economic power, strategic boycotts, and global unity with African, Asian, and Latin nations.

The conversation dives deep into how Black Americans and allied communities can use their collective $1.5 trillion in buying power to demand respect and accountability from brands, businesses, and policymakers. Listen as the speakers reflect on the civil rights tradition of economic protest and explore how modern movements can leverage the lessons of the past for today’s political climate.

Angela Rye shares her vision for the State of the People Power Tour, an initiative focused on building stronger, more resilient Black communities through authentic conversation, service, and mobilization. The conversation challenges the notion of seeking common ground with extremists and urges a renewed focus on unity and healing within the community.

Key discussion points in this clip:

– Practical strategies to fight back against oppressive policies and anti-DEI actions

– Leveraging buying power as a tool for social and political change

– The dangers of sanitizing or neglecting white supremacist rhetoric

– The importance of intra-community conversations and coalition building

– Bridging gaps with African nations and the wider diaspora

– Encouraging service, listening, and grassroots leadership

– Why now is the time to mobilize and support each other

Don’t miss this insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, politics, and empowerment—designed to spark change and inspire action within the Black community and beyond.

If you enjoyed this clip or want to hear more from Blackout Med, be sure to subscribe, leave your thoughts in the comments, and share this conversation with your network!

**Hashtags:**

#BlackoutMed #AngelaRye #EconomicEmpowerment #DEI #CommunityBuilding #BlackWealth #StateOfThePeople #BuyBlack #BlackExcellence #CollectiveAction

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this compelling clip from Blackout, Rashad Bilal, Ian Dunlap, and special guest Angela Rye tackle the disturbing realities of recent deportations to El Salvador and their broader impact on democracy and civil rights in America. Angela Rye explains how current immigration crackdowns and the blatant defiance of Supreme Court orders represent a mounting constitutional crisis—one where fundamental rights and protections for all Americans are at risk.

The conversation begins with Rashad's concerns about the dubious point system used to label people as gang members, resulting in mass deportations to some of the most dangerous prisons in El Salvador. Angela Rye provides context, highlighting how easily people's rights can be disregarded when governmental branches go unchecked, and why everyone—regardless of their background—should be alarmed. She powerfully connects constitutional protections like Miranda rights and equal protection to the everyday freedoms Americans rely on and warns against a growing disregard for humanity and justice.

The panel also delves into the political response, asking if the Democratic Party missed opportunities to connect with communities in need and address urgent issues like economic challenges and immigration. Angela discusses the growing platform of political figures like Gavin Newsom and questions whether bridging the gap with harmful conservative narratives is really the way forward or just political opportunism.

Rashad and Ian push further, asking about real recourse when leaders ignore Supreme Court rulings and expand efforts to deport even American citizens under the guise of law and order. Angela outlines the dangers such actions pose, especially to Black and brown communities, drawing parallels to historical injustices and the ways civil rights are being stripped away.

Key topics covered in this clip include:

- How the U.S. government is handling deportations to El Salvador

- The use of arbitrary point systems and racial profiling

- What a constitutional crisis really means for average Americans

- The problematic messaging from political parties around economics and immigration

- The importance of protecting civil rights and building coalitions against injustice

- Why Black and marginalized communities must stand united and vigilant

This is an essential conversation for anyone concerned about America’s democratic future, the protection of civil rights, and the urgent need for community action in the face of authoritarian overreach.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful discussions!

**Hashtags:**

#ConstitutionalCrisis #AngelaRye #Immigration #ElSalvador #BlackoutPodcast #CivilRights #Deportation #Democracy #AmericanPolitics #SocialJustice #PoliticalDiscussion #BlackVoices #GavinNewsom #MirandaRights #EqualProtection

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this insightful clip from Blackout, Rashad Bilal, Ian Dunlap, dive deep into the hidden world of luxury manufacturing and the shocking markups behind your favorite brands. With Chinese manufacturers pulling back the curtain on TikTok, we’re seeing firsthand how major brands like Lululemon, Fila, Under Armour, and even Hermès actually source their products—often from the very same factories in China.

The panel discusses how TikTok creators are exposing the reality that the same yoga pants, handbags, and even home goods we buy at sky-high retail prices can be found direct from the factory for a fraction of the cost. This conversation goes further, addressing how savvy Chinese marketing is influencing Western consumer perceptions and the explosive impact that transparency (and social media) is having on brand loyalty.

Rashad and Ian break down the illusion of luxury—how branding, not quality, justifies those jaw-dropping prices. They debate the true value of items like Birkin bags and Rolex watches, and question what makes “luxury” worth it today. The hosts also explore the changing landscape for consumers, pointing out ways ordinary people are now importing high-quality products directly from China, sidestepping traditional retail markups, and what this shift could mean for global commerce.

Is it finally time to rethink what makes a brand “premium”? Will the transparency wave change what and how we buy? Tune in for these answers and more as the Blackout Med team peels back the layers of global luxury manufacturing, marketing, and consumer mindset.

Share your thoughts below! Have you ever sourced products directly from China? Do you think luxury branding still holds value in the age of transparency?

**Hashtags:**

#LuxuryExposed #TikTokReveals #BrandTransparency #MadeInChina #BlackoutMed #ConsumerTruth #LuxuryBrands #FactoryDirect #RetailMarkups #BirkinBag #Rolex #Lululemon #FashionIndustry #ModernConsumer #IanDunlap #RashadBilal #SourcingSecrets #GlobalEconomy #BrandingTruth #SocialMediaImpact

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy