Da’Vinchi sits down with Rickey Smiley for an honest and inspiring conversation about faith, mental health, purpose and the decisions that shaped his journey from poverty to Hollywood.
Best known for his roles as Terry Flenory on BMF and Darnell Hayes on All American, Da’Vinchi opens up about starting his career in music, transitioning into acting and why he ultimately became uncomfortable with the messages he was being encouraged to promote through his songs.
Da’Vinchi reveals that although he has experienced arrests and sold drugs in his past, that lifestyle did not create his success.

Changing his life, strengthening his faith and educating himself are what helped him move forward. He explains why he refuses to glorify the very circumstances he had to overcome and why portraying a character is different from personally promoting a destructive lifestyle. The actor also discusses the intentional thought behind the roles he accepts, landing his breakthrough opportunities on Jessica Jones, All American and BMF, and the responsibility he feels to tell stories without losing himself in the characters.

Da’Vinchi and Rickey also dive deeply into mental health, emotional discipline, technology, depression and the importance of preparing your mind to handle loss, change and life’s inevitable challenges.

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Momma Dee joins Rickey Smiley On The Spot for one of her most candid and entertaining interviews yet. From the phone call that launched her reality TV career to the real meaning behind her iconic phrase "In That Order," Mama Dee reflects on motherhood, fame, music, faith, and her unwavering love for her son, Scrappy. She also shares the inspiration behind her new food truck, her favorite family recipes, and why she believes protecting your children never stops, no matter how old they become.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Introduction to Mama Dee The Queen of Reality TV
(02:12) - Family Update: Grandkids and Lil Scrappy
(03:22) - Cooking Secrets: Momma Dee’s Famous Recipes
(07:35) - Momma Dee’s New Purple Food Truck
(10:44) - How Reality TV Fame Started: The Soulja Boy Drama
(16:22) - The Rocky but Loving Relationship with Scrappy
(19:12) - Unforgettable "Love & Hip Hop" Moments & Catchphrases
(27:31) - Rapid Fire Questions: Late Nights and Pet Peeves
(33:39) - The Secret Kool-Aid Ingredient

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This week on Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Rickey sits down with legendary R&B artist Montell Jordan for one of his most transparent conversations yet. Known worldwide for creating one of the biggest party anthems of all time, "This Is How We Do It," Montell reflects on the highs of superstardom, the pressures that came with early success, and why he believes fame didn't prepare him for the responsibilities of being a husband and father. Montell also shares the emotional story behind his prostate cancer diagnosis, how he broke the news to his wife, and why he's now committed to encouraging men to prioritize their health. From music and ministry to marriage and purpose, this episode is filled with wisdom, laughter, and unforgettable moments including a hilarious conversation about bringing back the original church communion crackers.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Introduction & The Impact of "This Is How We Do It"

(06:42) - Fame, Family, and Early Lessons

(10:03) - Church Roots & Musical Foundation

(13:43) - The Turmoil of Two Worlds: R&B vs. Ministry

(18:24) - Musical Inspirations: From Stevie Wonder to Prince

(22:54) - Bringing "Light" to the World: Faith on Stage

(31:40) - The Love Story of Montell and Kristin Jordan

(45:09) - A Journey Through Prostate Cancer

(01:00:46) - A Mandate for Health: Advocacy & Early Detection

(01:02:18) - New Chapters: Books, Movies, and Rapid Fire

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Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Eric Bellinger joins Rickey Smiley for an honest conversation about the realities of songwriting, balancing artistry with business, navigating grief, and building a career on his own terms. From writing chart-topping records for some of the biggest names in music to opening up about losing his mother and embracing a new chapter with a major label partnership, Eric shares the experiences that shaped both the artist and the man behind the hits.

 

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro & Eric Bellinger Welcome

(00:00) - Intro & welcome to Grammy award-winning Eric Bellinger.

(02:40) - Eric’s Songwriting Catalog for icons like Brandy, Justin Bieber, and Chris Brown.

(05:31) - Musical beginnings in the church and early R&B influences.

(11:45) - Visiting the Jackson family home and its impact.

(20:09) - Working with Beyoncé and the lessons learned about being himself.

(24:28) - Thoughts on Artificial Intelligence in music.

(26:34) - Family life, fatherhood, marriage, and being present

(32:11) - Dealing with the loss of his mother and the therapeutic power of music.

(38:58) - Starting his own label, All Wins Entertainment, and finding new talent.

(43:15) - His upcoming self-titled album.

(44:54) - Fan pet peeves and wild experiences.

(47:55) - Rapid-fire questions: Tour riders, go-to vocal songs, and food preferences.

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary songwriter and producer Sean Garrett joins Rickey Smiley for an unforgettable conversation about creating some of the biggest hits in music history.

Known as "The Pen," Sean has written and produced chart-topping records for Beyoncé, Usher, Ciara, Chris Brown, Fergie, and countless others. From the making of "Yeah!," "Goodies," and "Run It!" to sharing his unique creative process, Sean gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to consistently create timeless music.

Sean opens up about earning his iconic nickname from Jay-Z, the responsibility that comes with shaping the sound of a generation, and the importance of collaboration in the music industry. In one of the episode's most memorable moments, he shares what it was like working with Michael Jackson during the final year of his life and reveals that the King of Pop called him every morning to talk about creating "the biggest song in the world."The two also discuss fatherhood, Atlanta's influence on music, vocal production, and why songwriters deserve more recognition.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro & Sean Garrett Welcome
(01:34) - Introducing the Legend: Sean "The Pen" Garrett
(03:26) - Do Songwriters Get Enough Recognition?
(04:02) - Sean's Early Career and Atlanta Roots, Military Upbringing
(05:32) - The Creative Process: Creating vs. Writing
(06:51) - Natural Gift: 56 Number Ones and "Super Friend" Status
(07:40) - Making a Name Before Social Media
(09:51) - The Story Behind Usher's "Yeah!"
(13:52) - Transition to Solo Artist: New Music "Girlfriend"
(14:26) - Cooking Memories with Plies and Pinto Beans
(15:44) - How Jay-Z Gave Him the Nickname "The Pen"
(16:57) - Working with Michael Jackson: The Final Year
(21:03) - Vocal Producing: Pushing Usher, Chris Brown, Beyoncé, and MORE
(24:02) - Atlanta's Impact on Hip-Hop & R&B
(24:56) - Dating in ATL and Finding "The One"
(25:56) - Free Time: Bowling, Top Golf, and Family
(28:40) - Game Time: "The Spot" Rapid Fire Questions

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five-time Grammy Award-winning artist CeeLo Green joins Rickey Smiley On The Spot for one of the most entertaining and insightful conversations yet.

CeeLo opens up about losing his parents at a young age, how music became his therapy, and the gospel roots that shaped his legendary career. He also reveals the truth about nearly joining OutKast, reflects on Goodie Mob's final chapter, and shares behind-the-scenes stories from working with Kanye West on Bully.

The conversation dives into Atlanta's influence on music, the rise of Dungeon Family, AI's impact on creativity, his experience as an original coach on The Voice, and the lessons he's learned throughout his incredible journey.

From heartfelt moments to hilarious stories only Rickey and CeeLo can tell, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and unforgettable Atlanta history.

 

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro & CeeLo Green Welcome

(02:50) - Church Roots & Gospel Background

(04:18) - New Gnarls Barkley Album "Atlanta"

(05:48) - Discovering His Unique Voice

(08:23) - Losing His Parents & Healing Through Music

(09:55) - Growing Up on Atlanta's Southside

(10:03) - The Formation of Goodie Mob

(13:31) - Why Goodie Mob Decided To End

(15:15) - CeeLo's Secret Love For Comedy

(17:12) - The Truth About Almost Joining OutKast

(19:21) - How Gnarls Barkley Was Created

(21:47) - Working With Kanye West On Bully

(26:54) - AI & The Future of Music

(29:20) - What He'd Do If He Wasn't A Musician

(30:00) - Fashion Influences & Style

(34:24) - The Voice & Becoming An Original Coach

(37:04) - Would He Return To The Voice?

(38:27) - Dream Verzuz Matchup

(40:40) - Quick Fire Questions

(46:45) - Final Thoughts & New Music

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kwame Johnson joins Rickey Smiley for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about redemption, mentorship, and the urgent need to invest in young people. As President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, Johnson has dedicated his life to helping young people reach their full potential, but his path to leadership was anything but conventional.

From spending time in solitary confinement as a teenager to graduating from college and later attending Harvard, Johnson shares how mentorship, faith, and second chances transformed his life. The conversation explores the challenges facing youth in Atlanta, including poverty, homelessness, mental health struggles, and the growing need for positive role models.

Johnson also discusses the innovative Level Up mentoring program, which places paid mentors directly inside schools, and explains why mentorship should be viewed as a community responsibility rather than simply a nonprofit initiative.

 

CHAPTERS

00:45 Rickey Introduces Kwame Johnson

01:00 The Impact Of Big Brothers Big Sisters In Atlanta

(01:42) Kwame's Journey From Trouble To Purpose

(03:06) Why Young People Need Access More Than Talent

(05:03) Faith, Hope & Second Chances

(06:17) Why Today's Youth Want To "See" The Sermon

(07:01) The History Of Big Brothers Big Sisters

(08:14) Creating Mentors Inside Schools

(09:36) Poverty, Education & Opportunity In Atlanta

(10:49) The Reality Of Students Living In Hotels

(12:23) How Mentorship Changes Outcomes

(13:51) The Origin Of The Level Up Program

(16:05) Rickey's Plea For More Mentors

(18:43) How To Get Involved With Big Brothers Big Sisters

(19:20) Why Mentorship Should Be A Community Responsibility

(21:09) Why Men Often Hesitate To Mentor

(22:23) "You're Enough"  Kwame's Message To Men

(23:32) Turning Pain Into Purpose

(24:27) The Hope Inside & Final Thoughts 

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Tye Tribbett joins Rickey Smiley On The Spot for an unforgettable conversation about faith, family, music, and perseverance. Ty opens up about his journey from playing in local churches to becoming one of gospel music’s most electrifying performers. He shares how “Victory” changed his life, why people once misunderstood his energetic style, and the emotional meaning behind songs like “He Turned It.” Rickey and Ty also dive into hilarious church stories, gospel legends, comedy, and the real-life moments that shaped Ty’s career and faith journey. This episode is full of laughter, transparency, and inspiration from start to finish.

 

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro

(02:45) – Tye Tribbett Reveals The Pain Behind The Song

(04:20) – Growing Up In Camden, New Jersey

(05:00) – Church, Family & Learning Music From His Father

(06:40) – Becoming A Choir Director By Accident

(08:05) – Sneaking Jazz Music Growing Up

(09:20) – Tye’s First Major Hit “Victory”

(10:40) – Being Different In Gospel Music

(11:15) – Gospel Legends That Inspired Tye Tribbett

(12:45) – Anti-Bullying Campaign & Childhood Trauma

(14:20) – Tye Opens Up About Losing His Father

(16:40) – Rickey Smiley Gives Powerful Advice About Grief 19:00 – Therapy, Mental Health & Performing Through Pain

(21:45) – “We Outside” Tour Announcement

(22:15) – Hilarious Bishop Sheard Story 

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

T.I. pulled up to On The Spot with Rickey Smiley and delivered one of the funniest and most authentic conversations we’ve had yet. From Atlanta culture and Birthday Bash memories to parenting, music, strip clubs, comedy, and the legacy behind the King album, TIP gave fans a raw and hilarious look into his world. The King of the South talks about returning to music with his hit single “Let ‘Em Know,” why the record instantly felt special, and how listeners of ALL ages turned it into an anthem. He also reflects on headlining the 30th anniversary of Birthday Bash, ATL culture, Magic City stories, and the evolution of Atlanta’s music scene.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) – Intro & Rickey/T.I. Comedy Banter
(03:15) – Birthday Bash 30 & Headlining Atlanta’s Biggest Stage
(05:00) – T.I. Explains His Birthday Bash Preparation Process
(07:45) – “Let ‘Em Know” Becoming A Massive Hit
(09:15) – Rickey Smiley Says The Song Almost Got Him Fired
(12:20) – Recording Music On A Yacht In Miami
(14:10) – Magic City & Atlanta Strip Club Culture
(15:30) – The Real Meaning Behind The King Album
(18:00) – ATL Movie & Skating Memories
(20:15) – Parenting Stories & Raising King, Domani & Heiress
(24:00) – Acting, Comedy & Returning To Stand-Up
(30:00) – Final Album Kill The King Discussion
(36:00) – Family, Legacy & Fatherhood
(45:00) – Finish The Lyrics Game

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary With Da Tea pulled up to On The Spot with Rickey Smiley for one of the FUNNIEST and most honest conversations we’ve had yet. From getting chased home as a kid, surviving cancer, working at Wendy’s, getting confronted by T.I., mental health, radio beginnings, celebrity gossip, and the chaos of life behind the scenes — Gary gave us EVERYTHING. The two longtime friends share hilarious untold stories from The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, emotional moments from Gary’s personal life, and nonstop laughs that only they could deliver.

Gary also opens up about living with bipolar disorder, surviving colon cancer, and the journey that turned him into one of the most recognizable voices in entertainment. If you thought Gary was funny on the radio… this episode takes it to another level. 

CHAPTERS 

(00:00) Intro + Walgreens Story

(01:05) Rickey Introduces Gary With Da Tea

(03:23) Gary Talks 30 Years In Radio

(04:08) Why Gary Originally Wanted To Be A Nurse

(05:11) Gary’s First Job At Wendy’s

(06:27) The Wendy’s Chili Incident

(09:02) How Gary Met Rickey Smiley

(11:00) Gary’s Start On The Rickey Smiley Morning Show

(12:16) Gary Talks Mental Health + Bipolar Disorder

(14:13) Growing Up In Port Arthur, Texas

(16:41) Gary Opens Up About Surviving Colon Cancer

(18:50) Why Gary Cries In The Car

(21:23) The Origin Of “Color of the Day”

(22:05) T.I. Confronts Gary In Beverly Hills

(24:00) Gary Talks Being Bullied Growing Up

(25:52) Gary Discusses His Podcasts + Tea Parties

(26:34) Rickey Calls Out Gary’s Bills Constantly Being Late

(28:46) Fire Department Kicks Gary’s Door Down

(32:31) Gary’s Shopping Addiction + Zara Confession

(34:22) Walgreens Story Gets Worse

(35:59) Final Thoughts + Social Handles

 

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.