Wow... I'm gonna be someone's dad. Well, I better start gathering information huh? Where do I start? Who should I talk to? WHAT DO I NEED TO ADD TO A BABY SHOWER REGISTRY?! 

So many questions and time is clearly on crack. I have to admit.. My first emotion was not excitement, but fear: about significant changes of plans, of my abilities to provide for a baby, and the challenge of co-parenting.

Thankfully, I know a couple of young Black fathers to drop some insight as I embark upon this new chapter in my life.

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"Hands-On": Daddy's hands are oftentimes supposed to be there to guide, to shape, the fix when possible, and to support. This series is a compilation of conversations with Millennial Black fathers on the challenges, joys, early lessons learned, confidences, and insecurities about their journies as proactive, hands-on fathers.

Amongst these men are single fathers, husbands, co-parents, and dads currently trying to work things out with mom.

This series will put a megaphone behind voices that go unheard often.

This is "Hands-On".

Reckommendations

Parenting Apps: Huckleberry, What to Expect

Books: "With Parents: The new dad's guide to the baby's first year"

Good Ass Art

Song: “I remember 09": by Feel Good Spud

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates

A perfect example of code-switching intraculturally amongst Black folks. Enjoy Big Mouth on Adult Swim!

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG!

Word of The Day: Ignominious (adj) - deserving or causing public disgrace or shame.

Friends and fans of the podcast... our favorite unpredictable G-ma, Christine is in need of your affirmations, prayers, and positive vibrations. She is currently in the hospital after suffering from a number of major health issues for the past few months (hence my hiatus and no Convo with Christine segment). Keep her lifted for us. <3

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The top of episode 17 is blessed with some home-cooked music straight outta Chicago, coming from Freddie Old Soul (add this song from the Good Ass Playlist found in the description below!)  

This week, I'm joined by the newly hooded, DOCTA TRISTEN BRENAÉ JOHNSON, for a discussion about how code-switching and European-influenced standards of [life?] mitigate how we are allowed to present our Blackness in a given space (11:50).  Then, the importance and historical significance of "Black names", code-switching within different personal groups, and other scenarios. 

Dr. Johnson introduces our 10-dollar word of the day while discussing the challenge of understanding what Blackness is. We chat through Megan Markle 'nem and how that relates to the experiences of Black women throughout western society (28:02), and then... we get into the deep stuff: fear of death (33:50) and if/how we can overcome that fear, and challenge ourselves to still live while acknowledging that fear. 

At closing, I make an announcement that you're not going to want to miss. :) 

Good Ass Art  (48:23)

Song: “Shorty Fine AF on 63rd": by Freddie Old SOUL

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates <3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Deleterious (adj) - causing harm or damage.

On Monday, Feb. 16, the seemingly invincible state of Texas had one of its biggest strengths, its self-independence, show up as a major weakness.  Thanks to having its own power grid system, the unprecedented ice storm completely incapacitated millions of Texans (and many citizens throughout the south).  Without power and clean water, dozens of Texans suffered hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning, physical injuries, and even death in the days following.  This episode was recorded during this statewide situation as a way to distract ourselves with fun conversation and bond through the very serious situation at hand (Overview in Intro). 

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I'm officially in Astroworld (Houston) and guess what? Making friends as an adult is hard as F***! However, thanks to Al Gore's internet, I've come across a dope new friend "Moriah" that shall be referred to as Mo' The Stallion (2:19).  During the power outage, Mo' came by to stay as her water and power were out at her spot so we figured we minus whale record for the pod, right?

In this Open Space (4:43), we start by providing a succinct list of 10 spots to hit during your next trip to the city (check Reckommendations section below) discuss the differences in how racial identity impacts Black Houstonians compared to Black Chicagoans (18:40).  As a Houston native, Mo' explains what the Houston Rodeo is (or would have been) like this year along with the differences between NOLA crawfish and Houston crawfish boils (21:33).  Then, we dive into some of the reasons who I chose to come, and why Mo' has chosen to stay in H-Town so long.  

Later, we discuss the pandora what that means for summertime activities--comparing Chicago's scene to Houston.  We close out by discussing the experience of virtual counseling sessions (36:05) and flood zones (pro-tip if you're thinking about moving here).  

Good Ass Art  (48:23)

Song: “Time": by Kiiing (Sebastian Mikael)

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates <3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Tenacious (adj) - persistent in maintaining, adhering to, or seeking something valued or desired

Valerie: Entrepreneur. Artist. Singer. Dancer. Nail Tech. Servant. Daughter. Sister. My Mother.

Auntie Joyce “Pumba”  joins Sean “Scoot-a-Boot” in Open Space ( to attempt to paint a vivid picture of her sister, my mother, Valerie. In this episode, we laugh, we cry, and we explore her life from childhood to adolescence, adulthood, and parenthood.  We recount lessons we have learned directly through her words, and indirectly by observing her actions. While the impact of Val cannot be in a singular podcast episode, this one hour + episode attempts to provide a glimpse of her personhood. 

Of course, there's a tangential sidebar debate on the meaning of “mixed chicken” from Popeye’s (mild/spicy or white/dark meat lmao) 4:37 , and a Commercial with G-ma Christine for her all-time favorite department store, Carson Prairie Scott (lol) 47:02. But, the REST of this episode is about the life and times of my OG. I hope it's enlightening and brings warm feelings to family and friends of hers that may be listening.

P.S. Let me know if you’re feeling this lofi hip-hop rendition of “Steven Universe” I have as the background theme this go around.. I thought the vibe was fitting. Just might keep it.

Good Ass Art  (66:30)

Song: “Enough is Enough”: by Kiiing (@blackiiingout), a Chicago hip-hop artist

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

Word of The Day: Inspire (n) - fill with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.

In another Christmas-themed episode, Reck and Kevin (@TheNigerian.Therapist) debate over what song holds the title of GREATEST BLACK CHRISTMAS SONG of all time (4:00). The two discuss the absence/short-term presence of Santa in Nigerian culture (12:04).  Should we lie (tell a story) to our children about the existence of Santa (16:00)?  Trying to maintain the magic of Christmas memories (20:25).  Emphasizing the importance of therapy and therapeutic recreation (26:18).  

Later, Kev and Sean discuss African and Black American relations/perceptions (32:30) on the @COI_Podcast.  Key lessons learned this year (34:02).  Memorable gifts, which then leads into a deep dive on properly communicating your partner's love language (46:55).  The pair investigate the perceived origins of their own love languages (52:32).  

Good Ass Art  (66:30)

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

YouTube Comedy Channel: "Smoked Out Saturdaze" with @LarryIsLegend

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates <3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Eclectic (adj) - deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.

Happy Christmas (I know what I said)! In this holiday-edition, Reck is joined by a host of the "Basement Vibes: Singles Mixer", @BriPeezy22. In Open Space, Reck tells introduces 100-hour lasagna :-O (11:55) which leads to Bri questioning Reck on when is it okay to cook for someone he is dating (14:03).  

The pair talks about lessons learned through dating, during a pandemic, in 2020 (21:03). Inspired by legendary Black content creator, Kain Carter (@hotdamnirock), Reck gathers listeners to detail his story of his WORST DATE EVER -_- (26:53)

Good Ass Music

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates <3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Vanguard (n) - a group of people leading the way in new developments or ideas.

After a long hiatus, the WTD Podcast is back! 

Lots of changes have occurred during the break, and Reck kicks off the season by filling listeners in on the status of his (un)employment, mental health, and the next place he'll call home.  The Intro details a few changes to the show this season, while Open Space details the recipe to remaining resilient through a 7 step guide on how to "trust the process" 

Good Ass Art

Reckommendations

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates <3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Kairos (n): a critical moment for decision or action.

In this episode, Reck and Rob (@Amore.Muse) discuss baby fever from men's perspectives and experiences, delving into the emotional and mental complexities of the desire for fatherhood, yet acknowledging the obstacles in the way.  The pair detail what their earliest conceptions of "fatherhood" meant and what those mean for how they currently understand the role of a dad.  Conversation includes thoughts on being potential step-fathers, ALMOST being dads in the past, and other thoughts on the matter.

Good Ass Art

Listen to this track and more dope music from the show by adding the "Good Ass Playlist" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/wow-thats-deep-podcast-good-ass-playlist/pl.u-2aoqpAatkX5o5K?ls

Reckommendations

Follow @wowthatsdeeppodcast on IG for visuals and updates

<3U4 Listening!

Word of The Day: Abnegation (n): the act of renouncing or rejecting something.

If you soak in nothing else from this series, I will for you to abnegate whatever is keeping you from pursuing that THING you have desired or thought about.  You got this G.  Ya hear me?  YOU got this.  Now... do.

In the season finale, Reck shares Open Space with real estate expert Anthony Crudup (@ChatWithMac) and one of Chicago's most innovative DJ's, Sam Geralds (@MixedByUnstable) to discuss what I call "The Art of Starting" a new endeavor/project: overcoming fear, identifying resources, and discovering motivation (10:15).  The group defines and explores their experiences with #ImposterSyndrome (14:18).  When a situation calls for bravery VS. courage (22:36).  Applying courage to the pursuit of new relationships (28:13).  Advice for those that are afraid to start something new (35:32).  Importance of speaking LIFE into each other (54:00).  DJ Unstable steps into the Spoken Word Spotlight (1:06:53). 

Convo w/Christine displays our favorite G-Ma's multifaceted personality as she delivers uplifting words of prayer as well as.. well profanity.  Family history is tucked away in there somewhere too lol (1:09:09).  Thank you for the PHENOMENAL experience of the @WowThatsDeepPodcast.  Be sure to follow the IG page to stay in the loop! <3 U 4 LISTENING!

Kobe!...

Reckommendations

Intro Music - Still Up by Wes G and AG (Apple Music)

Family Pride Realty - Email: [email protected] 

Urban Clothing Line: @Fitty.Winks (Instagram)

DJ Unstable: @MixedByUnstable (Instagram)

Sweet D's Treats - Atlanta-Area Desserts 

IMAN - Video Based Activity Group for Seniors: www.imancentral.org @ImanCentral (Instagram)

The Cheesecake Lady: @Spencers_Cheesecake (Instagram)

Chicago Lash Tech: @Lifes_A_Niche (Instagram