Naked Sports with Cari Champion

In this episode, Cari chops it up with a true legend — Big Daddy Kane. We discuss the legacy of Rock the Bells, the roots of hip-hop, and why storytelling remains at the heart of the game.

Kane takes us back to his battle rap days and walks us through his rise, from hungry lyricist to certified pioneer. We delve into the creation of classics like "Smooth Operator," what it means to perform with p...

In this episode, Cari Champion gets real about the hot-button topic of transgender athletes in sports. From the emotional stories of parents to the big questions around fairness and inclusion, Cari breaks down the conversation with honesty and heart. She talks about how little research is actually out there, the real-life impact on families, and why we need more compassion and open-mindedness in this debate. If you’re curious...

In this solo episode, Cari addresses what’s happening right now, starting with the disturbing military presence in Los Angeles during protests against ICE. She discusses the dangers of government overreach and why we all need to stay aware, because these issues don’t just affect the marginalized; they impact everyone.

Then we pivot to the court. and not the kind with judges. Cari highlights the rise of some of the NBA&r...

The conversation delves into the work ethic and upbringing of Tamron Hall, the challenges and assumptions surrounding motherhood, the importance of presentation in journalism, and the experiences of sexual harassment as a black woman. Hall shares stories; of motherhood, behind-the-scenes, and the writings of her true crime series as a cathartic experience.

Connect: @CariChampion @TamronHall

Read: Watch Where They Hide 

Watch: Tamro...

This week on the podcast we are joined by legendary producer Jesse Collins! In this episode, Jesse keeps it real about his journey from radio to running major live events like the BET Awards and the Super Bowl halftime show. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from Ruthless Radio, reflects on the cultural impact of BET’s Teen Summit, and talks about the power of representation in media. With plenty of insights on staying crea...

In this episode of Naked Sports, Cari Champion chats with Jason Prenzo for a real, unfiltered talk about mental health—the highs, the lows. They get into the tough stuff: childhood trauma, the stigma that still surrounds mental health (especially for men), and why it’s so hard for some people to open up.

Jason opens up about his personal journey, sharing what it's really like to struggle with anxiety and the...

Weaver, the CEO and founder of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, shares her journey of uncovering the legacy of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. She discusses the historical significance of the relationship between Nearest Green and Jack Daniel, the impact of Prohibition on the whiskey industry, and the importance of honoring African American contributions to distilling. Fawn also highlights her efforts to rev...

In this episode of Naked Sports, host Cari Champion sits down with WNBA icon Angel McCoughtry to talk about life after the league, her journey into filmmaking and music, and her fight to elevate women’s basketball. From being the #1 overall draft pick to creating space for new generations of athletes, Angel shares raw insights on perseverance, purpose, and the power of reinvention.

Connect @CariChampion @McCoughtry

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Devi Brown — a true force in the wellness space — joins Naked Sports to talk about what it means to take care of yourself in a world that never seems to slow down.

We get into her journey, how she found her way to healing, what it means to be a calming presence in chaotic times, and how every chapter of life, even the messy ones, shapes us into who we’re becoming.

Focusing on self-care, growth, and showing yoursel...

Darren Waller a former NFL athlete, shares his journey of self-discovery, addiction, and recovery with us in this episode. He discusses the duality of his identity and some of the challenges he faced while navigating life as a professional athlete. Waller's candid reflections on his struggles with addiction and the path to recovery highlight the importance of self-acceptance and finding purpose beyond sports.

Waller shares his vuln...

On this episode, Cari sits down with the one and only Malik Yoba. They talk about where they’ve been, where they’re going, and what it really takes to move with kindness in industries that don’t always reward it.

Malik opens up about his journey, from the spotlight to behind the scenes, and we reflect on the power of cultural influence, the pressure of public perception, and the responsibility that comes with usin...

When Jemele Hill and Cari Champion get together, it always makes for a great conversation and a worthy episode!

We kick things off with the state of women’s basketball: where it’s thriving, where it needs support, and why players like Paige Beckers and Caitlin Clark are changing the game, even as they battle injuries and media hype. Because let’s be honest, rivalries make the story, but so does real representation...

In this episode, Cari shines a light on Senator Cory Booker’s powerful, history-making speech, not just for what he said but also for what it means in the bigger fight for civil rights and justice. It’s a reminder that the work isn’t done.

And with the Women’s Final Four on the horizon, of course, Cari had to talk about where women’s basketball is right now: the growth, the challenges, and the energy t...

This episode has a little bit of everything: some laughs, some heat, and another example of how sports intersects with culture and politics.. Cari is tapping into everything — from what’s really going down in women’s basketball right now. The game is changing, and so is the conversation, and then we go straight into dating standards: the back-and-forth between what men think women want and what women are...

In this episode, we get into it — sports, politics, and everything in between. The hosts break down what’s really going on in today’s political climate, especially around education and how corporate power keeps showing up in all the wrong places.

They also unpack how different generations are seeing politics play out and how political figures influence the way we think, act, and show up in the world.

Then we switc...

On this episode of Naked Sports, we’re getting real — like, take-the-gloves-off kind of real. We’re talking about the intersection where sports, culture, and politics ALL collide — because let’s be honest, they always do.

Sali Christeson is our very special guest — someone who’s not just brilliant, but who’s also become a true ally in this work. We get into the messy, necessary conver...

Hill Harper shares his journey as a father, actor, and author. He discusses the significance of his son's name, Pierce, and the profound impact of adopting him. Hill challenges stereotypes surrounding single black fathers and emphasizes the importance of fatherhood and community. The dialogue also touches on personal growth, meaningful connections, and the evolving nature of parenting. They reflect on their father's influence, and ...

Angie Stone

(Dec 18, 1961 - Mar 1, 2025)

Cari pays tribute to the late Angie Stone, reflecting on her legacy and contributions to music. Angie discusses her latest album, the rapid creation process, and her pioneering role in the hip-hop and R&B genres with her group Sequence. She shares insights into her songwriting process, collaborations with artists like D'Angelo, and the challenges of transitioning from a writer to a perfo...

Wendell Pierce joins Cari Champion to discuss the intersection of sports, politics, and culture, focusing on the importance of family, community activism, and the power of art. The conversation also delves into Kendrick Lamar's impactful halftime performance and the significance of guarding one's joy amidst societal challenges. Wendell shares insights on rebuilding communities after disasters, emphasizing the need for self-determin...