Discussing Hollywood's Representation

The Double Standard Debate

Breaking Down the Two-Part Conversation

Cultural Representation and Talent

The Importance of Respect in Cultural

Personal Reflections on Fatherhood and Loss

The Impact of Grief on Daily Life

Jay-Z's Controversial Target Deal

Jay-Z's Controversial Freestyle

The Target Boycott and Jay-Z's Response

The Nature of Boycotts and Their Impact

Black History Month and Educational

The Importance of Diverse Representation in

Kanye West and Standing Up to Celebrities

Reflections on Kanye's Comeback and Creative

The Power of Talent and Mental Health

Exploring Africa: Debunking Stereotypes

Black Inventors and Their Contributions

From TMZ to Hollywood: A Journey Through Film

Hip Hop Homicide: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Closing Thoughts and Gift-Giving

Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.

The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.

They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.

Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.

Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.
The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.
They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.
Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.

Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.

Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.

One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America. Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots. Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry. One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of...

One 54 Podcast

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.

Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.

Godfrey Danchimah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.

One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time 

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America. Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots. Godfrey Danchimah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry. One54 - Celebrating Africa&rsquo;s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time&nbsp;

Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.  The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.  They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.  Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.

Van Lathan Part 2: Emmanuel Acho, Black Unity, History & Moving Forward - One54 Africa

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/9ddb5c94-0529-4e12-8550-b4a3015e880d/transcript