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Hyphen Nation

Hyphen Nation

By Kelen Conley

Hyphen Nation is about everything. Hyphen Nation is genre-less. Hyphen Nation can be about police brutality. Hyphen Nation can be about pro wrestling. Hyphen Nation can be about music. Hyphen Nation can be about sports. Hyphen Nation can be about films. Hyphen Nation is safe space. THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, Hyphen Nation is hosted by Kelen Conley and his semi-regular co-host Marcus Robinson. Don't put Hyphen Nation in a box. Because nobody... puts Hyphen Nation in a box. A Hyphen Podcast Group production.
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Episode #149: Race To Black Enough Mountain

Hyphen NationJan 17, 2020

00:00
01:31:25
Episode #186: The Story of Brooklyn (Costarring Angel & Aaliyah Conley)

Episode #186: The Story of Brooklyn (Costarring Angel & Aaliyah Conley)

I'm joined by my wife Angel and our daughter Aaliyah as we remember our first dog Brooklyn, who passed away in April 2020.

May 18, 202101:05:48
Episode #185: Talking To Your Spirit (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #185: Talking To Your Spirit (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

On a Sunday afternoon, I sat down with my semi-regular co-host Marcus "Showinmadlov" Robinson so we could complete our quest to discuss the anniversaries of two more Jigga albums! As we continue on, Marcus and I cover Jay-Z's 1996 debut Reasonable Doubt and his 2001 LP The Blueprint. What was the best Biggie/Jay-Z collaboration? OG U Don't Know or the remix? Was Can I Live II or Jigga That N*gg* really necessary? And which one of us hated Jay-Z before changing their mind? Recommendations: Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint. Backstage. Fade To Black. Can't Knock The Hustle (Fool's Paradise Remix).

May 04, 202102:28:50
Episode #184: All Of This Without A Diploma (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #184: All Of This Without A Diploma (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AALIYAH! Lawry and Burnett. Corleone and Hagan. Kiss and Styles. Enough of the iconic duos, Marcus is back in the semi-regular co-host chair! For the 184th episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, we're talking Jay-Z. 2006's Kingdom Come. 2011's Watch The Throne. Am I hearing things or did Jay rap lighter the whole album? Was WTT peak Kanye? How old is Curren$y? This is only part 1, as next episode, we discuss Reasonable Doubt. And The Blueprint OG. Recommendations: Marcus - "Anything" - Kingdom Come. Kelen - "Hollywood" - Kingdom Come.

Apr 20, 202102:05:44
Episode #183: September's Very Own (Costarring No Name Tim)

Episode #183: September's Very Own (Costarring No Name Tim)

As we proceed into a new episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I have a guest! And not just any guest, I have No Name Tim, the producer of the last two theme songs you hear at the start of every episode! This was his fee: free beat; have him on as a costar. No problem! Tim and I discuss how he got into producing, his friendship with Marcus D'Tray, what it's like selling beat leases, how he got to produce for Tama Tonga, he mentions his buddy Simon from WhatCulture... I could go on. But this is a really great conversation. I'll let you check it out yourself.

Apr 13, 202101:48:26
Episode #182: Before I Let Go

Episode #182: Before I Let Go

In this episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I take some time to tell DMX just how important his music was to a kid growing up in West Virginia. Then, I share how overjoyed I was when I watched Bad Boys For Life. After that, I spend some time eulogizing Elgin Baylor. And then I do an off the dome recap of House Party 2 for its 30th anniversary. Get well soon X. Recommendations: It's Dark And Hell Is Hot. ...And Then There Was X. Bad Boys For Life. Hang Time: My Life in Basketball. House Party 2.

Apr 06, 202101:14:54
Episode #181: I Just Try To Get Better (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #181: I Just Try To Get Better (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

In this week's episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I've found a gem of a conversation featuring Gawd's Favorite, Marcus "Showinmadlov" Robinson! After we recorded Episode #173, the mic was still on and we had more to say. We talk about my exploits into the streaming world, our monthly HPG conference call that Marcus runs, our disinterest in the NFL, Common, Wale, Freddie Gibbs, and more! Plus, a sobering intro when I rediscover an old email from my dad. Recommendations: Freddie Gibbs - Piñata, Bandana & Alfredo.

Mar 17, 202101:07:28
Episode #180: Keep Your Hands Off Of My Chromatica

Episode #180: Keep Your Hands Off Of My Chromatica

So no Morgantown weather report. It was weird for me too. Maybe I'll keep doing it. Instead, I talked about how I'm trying to clean up my act on social media. Then, in the BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST proper, I've been listening to music, so you get reviews! Evermore, Positions, Plastic Hearts, Chromatica, and Folklore are all discussed and ratings are dished out. But wait! In the middle of reviewing all this music, I run a Jodeci bracket! What's your favorite Jodeci song? Recommendations: Gaga: Five Foot Two and every album mentioned in this pod.

Mar 09, 202101:08:01
Episode #179: One Moment In Time

Episode #179: One Moment In Time

It's Tuesday and you know what that means! THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST is back! And just in time. While I slept Monday night, Bobby Lashley captured his first WWE Championship, making him the third black WWE Champion in history. I discuss this incredible moment and then I pivot right into crowning the winner of my 2020 Best In The World award. So after a super thorough wrestling pod, I whine about not being smarter than my video equipment and then we out! I forgot recommendations though, so... Biggie: I Got A Story To Tell? Hope I don't miss on that one.

Mar 03, 202101:11:53
Episode #178: The Sapphire Experience

Episode #178: The Sapphire Experience

Five years later, here we are. Hyphen Nation is officially five years old! So how else should we celebrate but than to do belatedly! On this episode, in its sapphire year, THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST goes back to its roots. Just me and the microphone, I detail what caused the hiatus at the end of 2020, I deliver what may be the best State Of The Podcast Address yet, and I even deal with the hate for a little ditty you may have heard called The Last Of Us Part 2. Here's to five years... and many more: Recommendations: The Shred Head Podcast. Dissect: Because The Internet. Sneakerheads.

Feb 24, 202101:08:20
Episode #177: Numbers On The Board '20 (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #177: Numbers On The Board '20 (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

After last week's excitement, we slow things all the way back down. For the annual Numbers On The Board episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I'm joined by my two semi-regular co-hosts, Marcus Robinson and George Gerbo... and we just talk. About 2020, about Covid, about plans for 2021, and about how we were feeling in the moment. I'm really proud of this episode just because I was able to share some real feelings with my friends. I hope y'all enjoy it as much as I did.

Feb 16, 202101:27:21
Episode #176: Cobra Kai Never Dies! (Costarring Melysette)

Episode #176: Cobra Kai Never Dies! (Costarring Melysette)

We interrupt your daily routine for something badass! I'm joined by Melysette of A Frightful Fret with Melysette (she also does a great job running the Hyphen Podcast Group Instagram account) to talk about the glory that is the Youtube Original turned Netflix property Cobra Kai! If you don't want spoiled, come back and see us once you're all caught up. We talk about everything: Johnny! Daniel! Miguel! Robby! Sam! Tory! Hawk! Amanda! Miyagi-Do! Banzai! Okay, not that last one but if you know the original movies, it's all a part of the lore! Plus, don't miss Mel's theory about who Tory's mom could be and other surprises! I may have broken my exclamation point key...

Feb 09, 202101:46:33
Episode #175: The Year In Sports 2020 (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #175: The Year In Sports 2020 (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

For the one hundred and seventy fifth episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, it's time to talk sports! I'm joined by Marcus and our newly minted semi-regular co-host George Gerbo as we break down the highs and lows of 2020! There's a lot of basketball talk, some black quarterback slander on my part that I have no regrets about, and as usual, George tries to be the voice of reason within the madness. Nobody cares about the Super Bowl. And happy birthday Holly!

Feb 02, 202101:20:18
Episode #174: Wu-Tang Forever, Disc One, Track Two (Costarring Errick Greenlee, Michael Lamerique & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #174: Wu-Tang Forever, Disc One, Track Two (Costarring Errick Greenlee, Michael Lamerique & Marcus Robinson)

HOT DAMN. It's a new day! On this episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, we go back in time! In September 2019, I was joined by Michael Lamerique and my semi-regular co-host Marcus Robinson to discuss Jay-Z's deal to work with the NFL. Before we got into the episode proper, however, Lam and I were talking with live mics, and then Marcus joined us, and then, with a resounding "'SUP JERKS?!", Errick Greenlee appeared out of nowhere! We talk about video games, wrestling, parenting, work... we're just all over the place. So I give you an inside look at Hyphen Podcast Group's Brain Trust. Over a year ago, with a pandemic the furthest thing from our minds.

Jan 26, 202101:29:09
Episode #173: People Are Stupid (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #173: People Are Stupid (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Once upon a time, people could get their information from reliable sources. Books, newspapers, the television... all these formats had some form of truth to them in return for a fee. Today, these formats still exist. And while the internet has caused us to push the boundaries of getting the most content for less, evil forces still seek to keep that same content unavailable... unless you pay. Giant intro aside, Marcus and I discuss ESPN's decision to move it's written content behind a ESPN+ fueled paywall, we dig deeper into more election anxiety (and even play some fun games with our sanity), and then reminisce over Grantland.com's 5 year death anniversary. All the best to you, Jason and Haley. Bill... I got nothing for you.

Nov 03, 202002:01:29
Episode #172: Election Anxiety

Episode #172: Election Anxiety

With less than a week to go before the 2020 elections, THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST gets political! I discuss the fear of Donald winning a second term and how his reign has led me to be scared to go certain places in WV because I'm black and they could be pro-Donald. I lay it all on the table and even have a lively discussion with the chat who was watching along. The second half of this episode focuses on my continued allegiance to being a foodie, feeling like I've eaten everything in Morgantown, and I talk a little WWE as I cover the Hell In A Cell PPV.

Recommendations: I forgot to say them. Next time baby.

Oct 27, 202001:34:14
Episode #171: 20 Years Of Roc La Familia

Episode #171: 20 Years Of Roc La Familia

So I felt like it had been 5 minutes or so since I mentioned Jay-Z, so here's a whole BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST about Jay-Z! It'll be 20 years since the release of The Dynasty: Roc La Familia on October 31, a Hov album that was born from the scraps of a Roc-A-Fella Records compilation project. I give a little history of the Roc as a label, break down the tracklisting, and compare 2000 Jigga to other artists who were topping the Billboard charts. And I have to mention the Robert Goulet SNL sketch with the Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek, Will Ferrell, and Jay. How could I not?

Recommendations: Holly Randall: Unfiltered - 139: Sasha Grey: Sex As Art, #BlackAF, and Quincy.

Oct 13, 202001:33:55
Episode #170: Do Not Disturb

Episode #170: Do Not Disturb

So I did this thing. I read a book. Said book being Dave Itzkoff’s Robin, a biography about the late comedian/actor, Robin Williams. But I try my best not to make this whole pod an audio book report. I talk about some of things I discovered about Robin, as well as the tragic events that led up to his untimely passing. I eventually pass along some wisdom I gleaned from the book that I think everyone could use. I also detail my trip home for my dad’s 70th birthday and mark some upcoming sad anniversaries.

Recommendations:  Robin by Dave Itzkoff, White Whale Bookstore, Pittsburgh, PA,  Carmi Soul Food, Pittsburgh, PA, The InBESTigators

Oct 07, 202001:19:40
Episode #169: 2020 NBA Finals Preview

Episode #169: 2020 NBA Finals Preview

The Eastern Conference Finals ended at the right time as the result of Heat/Celtics Game 6 launches me into an all out NBA Finals preview! On one side, LeBron James, Anthony Davis and the Western Champs, the Los Angeles Lakers. On the other, making their first trip to the NBA Finals without Dwyane Wade or LeBron, the Jimmy Butler-led Miami Heat. The Lakers are right where a lot of people expected them to be; the Heat crushed their side of the bubble to now compete for a fourth NBA championship in franchise history. I break it all down for to get you ready for tip-off Wednesday night.

Recommendations: The Jordan Rules by Sam Smith

Sep 29, 202001:16:58
Episode #168: Star Wars: Revenge Of The Hot Takes (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #168: Star Wars: Revenge Of The Hot Takes (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

I've been putting it off long enough. This episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED GREATEST PODCAST brings us back to Star Wars to deal with The Rise Of Skywalker and the Sequel Trilogy as a whole. Marcus joins me to take this show from just another Star Wars episode to a Hot Takes themed Star Wars episode! JJ. Boyega. Ridley. Rian. Kylo. Luke. Han. Our Princess. Darth Vader. Palpatine. Even young and old Lando. Prepare to jump to lightspeed. This episode was brought to you by Spongebob Squarepants.
Sep 22, 202001:53:59
Episode #167: You'll Understand When You're Older

Episode #167: You'll Understand When You're Older

The BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST returns on its new release day of Tuesday! In this episode, I talk about how difficult it is for me to watch sports, I reevaluate the impact of Tupac Shakur days after the 24th anniversary of his murder, and then I share the tales of my experiences as a child with the Death of Superman storyline. I even share some current thoughts on the Doomsday arc after I finally read the trade for myself after years of ducking it. This episode was brought to you by sheer will of force because I will be exhausted by the time you read this.

Recommendations: Dom2K, Culture Surfing podcast, The Death of Superman, and the Fortress of Baileytude.
Sep 15, 202001:26:13
Episode #166: Emergency Pod - Pop Goes The Bubble? (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #166: Emergency Pod - Pop Goes The Bubble? (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

The Milwaukee Bucks boycotted their playoff game against the Orlando Magic yesterday in protest of the shooting of Jacob Blake and the ongoing demand for justice and some kind of change in America toward minorities. The NBA postponed the rest of the day's playoff slate and meeting's were held last night to see if the season could even continue. The WNBA followed suit with a powerful statement at midcourt of their respective bubble. Mookie Betts refused to play. The Brewers and Reds both refused to take the field. To mark this momentous occasion, me and Marcus try to talk our way through the moment and the consistent unrest that plagues our people in the United States.

Aug 27, 202001:19:13
Episode #165: Music Is Like Magic (Costarring Lance Roberson)

Episode #165: Music Is Like Magic (Costarring Lance Roberson)

(Kinda) hot on the heels of Catch The Show 71, I'm joined by Lance Roberson of Def Pen Sports to discuss more Marshall Mathers than you can shake a stick at! While me, Marcus, and EG covered the 20th anniversary of The Marshall Mathers LP on Catch The Show, Lance wanted to talk about what is both of our favorite Eminem album, The Eminem Show. We break down 10 of our favorite (and least favorite tracks), go off on Joe Budden and battle rap tangents, and just generally nerd out about Em at the peak of his powers. This episode was brought to you Spongebob Squarepants and Jessie.

Recommendations: The Eminem Show, Mood Muzik 1, and Mood Muzik 2.

Aug 15, 202001:28:08
Episode #164: And This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things

Episode #164: And This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things

I sat down and turned on my microphone, opened my Google Docs, and an hour of awesomeness happened. I give my take on Lego Masters and why Will Arnett is only good as Lego Batman, spend a little time with Donald and his fateful trip down a ramp, tell Bill Simmons and Ryen Russillo how I really feel about their anti-looting thoughts and Bill's idea of diversity at The Ringer, get into why R. Kelly has made me hate him even more, say an RIP to Katherine Johnson and Regis Philbin, and close things out with the ending of The Good Place. This episode was brought to you by The Eminem Show.

Recommendations: Master Of None and Pharrell & The Yessirs - Out Of My Mind.

Aug 13, 202001:04:24
Episode #163: Jordan '98 (Costarring Mike Asti, George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)
Jun 07, 202002:05:34
Episode #162: Hopeless

Episode #162: Hopeless

"I see no changes."

Jun 02, 202001:15:07
Episode #161: Part 3 - Ethan Strauss Appears! (Starring Ethan Strauss, George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #161: Part 3 - Ethan Strauss Appears! (Starring Ethan Strauss, George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

If you've been keeping up, George, Marcus, and I have been conducting the Hyphen Book Club in favor of Ethan Strauss' new book The Victory Machine about Kevin Durant and his time with the Golden State Warriors. Ethan took the time to follow me and tell me he enjoyed the shows and thanked us for reading so closely! Being the mastermind that he is, Marcus suggested I ask Ethan to be on the pod, a few direct messages later, and Ethan agreed! So enjoy Marcus and George's interview with the author of The Victory Machine, Ethan Sherwood Strauss! My deepest thanks to the fellas for being there for this when I could not because of work. This episode was brought to you by the sound of silence.

AND EVERYBODY CLAP FOR MARCUS FOR EDITING THESE LAST THREE EPISODES!

May 19, 202001:18:12
Episode #160: Part 2 - Sneaker Wars (Costarring Marcus Robinson & George Gerbo)

Episode #160: Part 2 - Sneaker Wars (Costarring Marcus Robinson & George Gerbo)

The Showinmadlov Book Club rides again as we tackle chapters 3 through 5 of Ethan Sherwood Strauss' The Victory Machine. We talk a little about Steve Kerr becoming the head coach and what the idea of joy has to do with NBA basketball, plus we touch on the devolution of Kevin Durant and what factors made him into the man and player he is today. A huge portion of this episode veers to sneakers as a chapter dedicated to Under Armor, Nike, Steph, and KD turns into an all out discussion of our love for different shoes. This episode was brought to you by 2015 Golden State Warriors highlights.

May 04, 202002:04:32
Episode #159: Circle Of A Dynasty Part 1 (Costarring Marcus Robinson & George Gerbo)

Episode #159: Circle Of A Dynasty Part 1 (Costarring Marcus Robinson & George Gerbo)

So long time listeners of Hyphen Nation knows what happens when I get into a funk and don't want to do anything podcast related. My semi-regular co-host Marcus "Showinmadlov" Robinson appears to save the day. I'm serious. Marcus noticed a new book hitting shelves called The Victory Machine: The Making and Unmaking of the Warriors Dynasty by Ethan Sherwood Strauss and sequestered myself and now 5-Time Guest Club member George "The Howitzer" Gerbo to read and write reports. Then he made us throw away our reports and share our feelings off the top. Chapters 1 and 2 are covered here; we'll be taking on Chapters 3-5 in a future episode! This episode was brought to you by Game 3 of the 2018 NBA Finals.

Apr 27, 202001:42:49
Episode #158: Slow Down Son, Ya Killin' Em

Episode #158: Slow Down Son, Ya Killin' Em

In the last of my previously recorded episodes, I take some time to tell the tale of the man who broke the color barrier in auto racing and one of the greatest racers in NASCAR history, Wendell Scott. From there, I talk about my sad love affair with Derrick Rose and my hopes of him playing in the All-Star Game being dashed... and then the whole season got suspended a few weeks later but I think it's still a worthwhile listen. This episode was brought to you by The Big Show Show and Mako: Island of Secrets.

Apr 10, 202001:20:35
Episode #157: The Wonderful World Of Sex Education (Costarring Tyler Kovar)

Episode #157: The Wonderful World Of Sex Education (Costarring Tyler Kovar)

In a world not that long ago, my dear friend Tyler Kovar and I broke into WVU's Creative Arts Center to record his second appearance on Hyphen Nation. Okay, we just found an empty room but I digress! After scouring for at least 45 minutes, we found a band room in the basement, I pulled out my notes, and we talked about seasons 1 and 2 or Netflix's delightful Sex Education. We cover a lot but we left plenty of surprises for you to discover when you ultimately leave this episode to go watch every single minute yourselves. This episode was brought to you by OJ: Made In America Part 3.

Apr 09, 202001:32:57
Episode #156: Breathing Without Worry (Costarring Erik Fromme, EG aka Catcher Of Shows, Errick Greenlee, George Gerbo, Mike Asti & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #156: Breathing Without Worry (Costarring Erik Fromme, EG aka Catcher Of Shows, Errick Greenlee, George Gerbo, Mike Asti & Marcus Robinson)

Two nights removed from the Show of Shows, THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST proudly presents the biggest number of guests on one episode thanks to the quarantine! I'm joined by Erik Fromme (x2), EG aka Catcher of Shows (x3), Errick Greenlee (x5), George Gerbo (x5), Mike Asti (x3) and my semi-regular co-host Marc Rob towards the end as we recap WrestleMania 36! WrestleMania Performance Center! WrestleMania No Fans Allowed! We cover all the high points for sure, talk some lows, and then give out letter grades and MVPs. I'll have to tell you; this episode is better enjoyed with a crowd though... at least a virtual one. This episode was brought to you by more OJ, Iron Man 3, and Freedom Writers.

Apr 08, 202002:19:16
Episode #155: My Dinner(s) My Eric

Episode #155: My Dinner(s) My Eric

This one is plain and simple: I met up with one of my best friends Eric Jordan twice in January and another time in February. This is me recounting those nights, reviewing food, seeing old friends and making old ones, and checking out some live music somewhere in between. This episode was brought to you by OJ: Made In America Part 2.

Apr 07, 202001:13:32
Episode #154: 2020 State Of The Podcast Address

Episode #154: 2020 State Of The Podcast Address

On this previously recorded episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I deliver my 2020 State Of The Podcast Address. There's 2019 stats courtesy of my semi-regular co-host Marcus Robinson, goals set, guests get proclaimed, and I even run down what Hyphen Podcast Group is doing in 2020. And there's no surprises on this one; just a good ol' fashioned episode of Hyphen Nation. This episode was brought to you by WrestleMania Pirate Flag.

Apr 06, 202001:24:02
Episode #153: Someone Had To Be The Heel (Costarring Mike Asti & George Gerbo)

Episode #153: Someone Had To Be The Heel (Costarring Mike Asti & George Gerbo)

Just in time (and I mean barely) for WrestleMania 36, I'm joined by The Howitzer & Buzz-Saw themselves, George Gerbo and Mike Asti. Slowly but surely, we talk about whether Mania Performance Center should even be happening and whether we can muster the energy needed for a WrestleMania with no crowd. Then, we choose our winners for each match thanks to the power of Wikipedia (but even that didn't help as the card has changed in a few spots since we recorded this). This episode was brought to you by WrestleMania XXVIII, Identity Thief, Fuller House (again), and Onward.
Apr 04, 202003:12:29
Episode #152: The Death Of Kobe Bryant (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #152: The Death Of Kobe Bryant (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

GUEST MONOLOGUE BY MATTHEW SPENCER.

Marcus and I spend this episode remembering Kobe. Rest in peace to all 9 people who lost their lives. May your families find peace in this difficult time. Happy birthday Mom.
Jan 30, 202001:46:02
Episode #151: Where Did He Come From?! (Costarring Angel Conley)

Episode #151: Where Did He Come From?! (Costarring Angel Conley)

And we're back! And we're late. Sorry. As you'll be able to tell, THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, has underwent some changes and hopefully for better. I start things off with a retraction about LeVar Burton's t-shirt pointed out to me by Errick, then I apologize for the mess that was 150. After that, Angel joined me on my birthday to finish watching the 2011 Royal Rumble that I started a few episodes ago. Next episode is for Kobe. This episode was brought to you by Girl Meets World and Kobe Bryant's Muse.
Jan 28, 202001:18:32
Episode #150: Hyphen Nation No More!

Episode #150: Hyphen Nation No More!

I start out with some 2019 statistics, just like a normal State Of The Podcast Address would begin. I make some goals but I keep using past tense. Then I announce that this is the last episode of Hyphen Nation. My 2020 State Of The Podcast Address becomes my Farewell Address to THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST. Then I woke up this morning and felt like a fool. So I once again don the mantle of Spider-M, er, um, your faithful host of Hyphen Nation. Show's rolling; kick it. Aaliyah comes in to clarify things with me at the end. And there are clips from some of the  first 100 episodes too! Special thanks to Maps for the intro and outro on short notice; I meant every word I said... and then I changed my mind. I promise you, my mental health is good. I thought ending the show would make my life easier; but I woke up feeling empty. This episode was brought to you by Frasier and Sex Education.

Jan 21, 202002:10:27
Episode #149: Race To Black Enough Mountain

Episode #149: Race To Black Enough Mountain

Inspired by S05 E13 of ILaPoW and someone saying something that triggered me, we get the closest thing to my origin story on THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD’S GREATEST PODCAST. I discuss my upbringing, when I first became aware of my blackness, race, racism, and when someone qualifies as black enough to not be called the opposite. This episode was brought to you by NXT’s Women’s Number 1 Contender battle royale and Pain & Gain.

Jan 17, 202001:31:25
Episode #148: The Sleep Deprivation Boogie

Episode #148: The Sleep Deprivation Boogie

Just when I thought I was missing Sunday's episode, I made it happen! This time out on THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST,  I discuss the curious case of Snoop Lion. I follow that up by naming the 2019 winner of my Best In The World award. If you looked at the episode artwork though, you already know. I'm sleepy and it may be because of a full moon. This episode was brought to you by Dave Chappelle's speech when he won the Mark Twain Prize.

Jan 13, 202001:22:60
Episode #147: A Story & A Commentary

Episode #147: A Story & A Commentary

I got nothing. I really don't. So much so that I pull out an old story that I've posted before and read it while spouting out ideas of spiders and why toilet bowls need to be clogged with bathmats. Then I watch the 2011 Royal Rumble since this year's event is right around the corner, realize how long it is, and then promptly stop halfway through the thing with promises to finish it soon. This smells very skippable. I really hate the Booker T photo too. This episode was brought to you by The Avengers.

Jan 09, 202001:38:40
Episode #146: Exacerbating The Situation

Episode #146: Exacerbating The Situation

Happy New Year! Happy 2020! Happy... no, I told you I don't care that 145 was released in 2020, this is the first episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST for a new decade! Today, we talk about the fascinating world of dog owners and the dogs who love them! We briefly talk about the death of former NBA commissioner David Stern. Oh yeah, my love of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is discussed. This episode was brought to you by Fraiser; good job by you Hulu for still having it.

Jan 05, 202001:06:09
Episode #145: Numbers On The Board '19 (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

Episode #145: Numbers On The Board '19 (Costarring Marcus Robinson)

After our marathon sports podcast with George Gerbo, Marcus and I still had a little work to do. For the third time in as many years, we sat down to record our year end Numbers On The Board episode. But this time, instead of going through questions and making picks for different topics in 2019... we just talked. We discussed what the 2009 versions of ourselves would say to our 2019 counterparts. We played some word association. And then we each chose one goal we'd like to work on for 2020. It's a new year but this was recorded last Friday. We'll get to all that 20 20 experience very soon. This episode was brought to you by Kuma Da Grizzly.

Jan 02, 202001:29:55
Episode #144: The Decade In Sports (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

Episode #144: The Decade In Sports (Costarring George Gerbo & Marcus Robinson)

As promised, George Gerbo is back on the show (also the newest member of the Three Timers Club)! And my semi-regular co-host Marcus "Showinmadlov" Robinson as well. We discuss 2010-2019 in the sports including our favorite teams, favorite villains, biggest blunders, overrated blanks, and much more! There's great takes, good takes, hot takes, and Derrick Rose takes and I would assume you don't need much more incentive than that. This episode was brought to you by the 2019 Fiesta Bowl.

Dec 29, 201902:39:58
Episode #143: Meanwhile, During Christmas Day...

Episode #143: Meanwhile, During Christmas Day...

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST! On this Christmas Day edition where I left my family at home long enough to do this, I recap Christmas morning and the gifts I received. Then I talk about Christmas mass at our church and just how good our priest is at telling stories. I forgot to talk about his snarky comment about people coming to church regularly or once or twice a year, but I digress. Do you even read the show notes or do you just skim through them? Then I talk about a good Christmas memory and share a bad one from the mid-90s. This episode was brought to you by Descendants 3 and no one letting me watch A Christmas Story.

Dec 26, 201901:13:57
Episode #142: You're The Best Of All Of Us

Episode #142: You're The Best Of All Of Us

On this episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I pitch a perfect game. Not to pat myself on the back on anything but I'm really proud of this one. We start off by talking about the traditions we have for our jewelry and then i eulogize a friend while talking about life back in my rapper days. Things don't get better but I had to talk about Donald getting impeached and what that could mean going forward. Then I spend a little time revisiting Avengers: Endgame and Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse; solo this time. This episode was brought you by Full House and Captain America: Civil War.

Dec 23, 201901:10:41
Episode #141: I'm Not Scared To Say It

Episode #141: I'm Not Scared To Say It

Not to be confused with Episode 43 from December 2017 (I would rename this one but to be honest... I don't want to)! As December creeps along, I return with a whole bushel full o' spoilers! First up is a recap of the events of The Walking Dead Season 10 thus far, then a quick jaunt to the Disney Movie Review Podcast so I can finally talk about Frozen II, and then a sober rant about a certain San Francisco based Netflix show . This episode was brought to you by Frazier, Wyclef Jean, and Stan Bush.

Dec 19, 201901:11:07
Episode #140: Immaculate Jedi Reception

Episode #140: Immaculate Jedi Reception

On this episode of THE BARACK OBAMA APPROVED WORLD'S GREATEST PODCAST, I'm mad. I talked about how well the Raiders were doing on Episode 130 and now they're 6-8 with two games to go. Football is a funny thing, especially when you blow a 13-3 lead in your final home game at Oakland to the Jaguars. At least Jason Mendoza's happy. Then the backlash from his own cast against The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson gets me all riled up about my fears the The Rise Of Skywalker will fix everything so-called Star Wars fans hated about it... while telling the same stories we've seen before with new characters. This episode was brought to you by WWE TLC, Return Of The Jedi, and The Force Awakens.

Dec 16, 201901:08:59
Episode #139: The Pod That Never Ends

Episode #139: The Pod That Never Ends

This episode didn't take that long to record but it truly feels like its been a few months since I started this whole thing at this point. This time, I re-record the first half of the episode after a recording snafu and discuss the 2013 film Drinking Buddies starring Olivia WIlde and Jake Johnson. Then I turn my attention to whether Zion Williamson should play this season and if Cam Newton is washed with the Panthers looking to trade him. This episode was brought to you by The Social Network.

Dec 12, 201901:09:49
Episode #138: Full Disclosure & Total Transparency
Dec 09, 201901:14:33
Episode #137: The Devil Wears Prada Commentary (Costarring Angel Conley)

Episode #137: The Devil Wears Prada Commentary (Costarring Angel Conley)

Very early when I created Hyphen Nation, I knew I wanted to talk about my love for The Devil Wears Prada. I think Marcus and I even talked about it way back on Episode #34. Almost 4 years later, I sat down with the newest member of the 5-Time Guest Club, Angel Conley. We give you a running commentary on this 2004 film starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci from start to finish, so have your play button ready! Or just listen wherever. This episode was brought to you by the Raiders getting blown out by the Chiefs.

Dec 01, 201902:04:34