Rickey Smiley Morning Show Podcast

Listeners were treated to a jam-packed show as the crew weighed in on growing concerns surrounding legendary singer Gladys Knight after recent performances sparked debate about her well-being. The conversation comes as Knight announced she is scaling back her live appearances and focusing more on family and personal projects after fans expressed concern over several recent onstage moments. The show also dug into NBA star Jimmy Butler’s ongoing child support case, with reports revealing that Butler and the mother of his three children, Kaitlin Nowak, have reached a comprehensive parenting agreement and are reportedly living together while finalizing remaining legal matters. Court records previously established Butler as the father of the children and included child support payments of $55,000 per month.   Meanwhile, Keke Palmer made headlines after clarifying earlier comments about being “asexual,” explaining that she simply does not feel as sexual as society expects and that attraction for her is rooted more in mental and emotional connection than physical appearance. The show also welcomed gospel icon Kirk Franklin, who reflected on his decades-long career, discussed hosting the upcoming Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and introduced his new single, "Thank You for Everything,” featuring Karen Clark Sheard, which serves as the lead release from an upcoming project that blends traditional church music with contemporary gospel sounds. Other notable topics included discussion of President Trump’s executive order directing federal agencies to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” for U.S. government use amid ongoing trade tensions with Canada, along with the show’s signature humor, entertainment news, and lively listener interaction.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

The show also dug into NBA star Jimmy Butler’s ongoing child support case, with reports revealing that Butler and the mother of his three children, Kaitlin Nowak, have reached a comprehensive parenting agreement and are reportedly living together while finalizing remaining legal matters. Keke Palmer made headlines after clarifying earlier comments about being “asexual,” explaining that she simply does not feel as sexual as society expects and that attraction for her is rooted more in mental and emotional connection than physical appearance. 

The show also welcomed gospel icon Kirk Franklin, who reflected on his decades-long career, discussed hosting the upcoming Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and introduced his new single, "Thank You for Everything,” featuring Karen Clark Sheard, which serves as the lead release from an upcoming project that blends traditional church music with contemporary gospel sounds. 

Keke Palmer made headlines after clarifying earlier comments about being “asexual,” explaining that she simply does not feel as sexual as society expects and that attraction for her is rooted more in mental and emotional connection than physical appearance. 

President Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” for U.S. government use amid ongoing trade tensions with Canada. 

The show also dug into NBA star Jimmy Butler’s ongoing child support case, with reports revealing that Butler and the mother of his three children, Kaitlin Nowak, have reached a comprehensive parenting agreement and are reportedly living together while finalizing remaining legal matters. Court records previously established Butler as the father of the children and included child support payments of $55,000 per month. 

The crew weighed in on growing concerns surrounding legendary singer Gladys Knight after recent performances sparked debate about her well-being. The conversation comes as Knight announced she is scaling back her live appearances and focusing more on family and personal projects after fans expressed concern over several recent onstage moments. 

Today’s show started with the big announcement that Lauren London has been cast to play Snoop Dogg’s late mother, Beverly Tate, in the upcoming Snoop Dogg biopic. The role is especially meaningful because Tate is credited with giving Snoop his famous nickname, and recent reports reveal the film will also feature actors portraying Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre as it chronicles the rap icon’s rise to fame. The show also discussed Busta Rhymes’ settlement with a former assistant, ending a legal battle that began with allegations of unpaid wages and workplace misconduct. According to recent court filings, the dispute was settled for $25,000, a dramatic reduction from the nearly $6 million originally sought by the former employee.   The conversation continued with Beyoncé’s remarks about natural beauty, authenticity, and self-confidence, as the superstar encouraged people to embrace individuality rather than chase perfection, a message that has resonated widely amid ongoing debates about beauty standards and social media pressure. The crew also unpacked the buzz surrounding Janet Jackson’s absence from the blockbuster Michael Jackson biopic, with new comments from nephew Jaafar Jackson suggesting Janet may have declined to be portrayed because she has considered telling her own story through a separate film project. Elsewhere, the show weighed in on a headline-making surrogacy dispute involving a critically ill newborn and debated who should have the final say when a surrogate and biological parents disagree about a child’s medical future.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

During What’s Trending, Rickey Smiley and the crew weighed in on a headline-making surrogacy dispute involving a critically ill newborn and debated who should have the final say when a surrogate and biological parents disagree about a child’s medical future. 

Busta Rhymes settled with a former assistant, ending a legal battle that began with allegations of unpaid wages and workplace misconduct. According to recent court filings, the dispute was settled for $25,000, a dramatic reduction from the nearly $6 million originally sought by the former employee. The conversation continued with Beyoncé’s remarks about natural beauty, authenticity, and self-confidence, as the superstar encouraged people to embrace individuality rather than chase perfection, a message that has resonated widely amid ongoing debates about beauty standards and social media pressure. 

The crew also unpacked the buzz surrounding Janet Jackson’s absence from the blockbuster Michael Jackson biopic, with new comments from nephew Jaafar Jackson suggesting Janet may have declined to be portrayed because she has considered telling her own story through a separate film project.

The conversation continued with Beyoncé’s remarks about natural beauty, authenticity, and self-confidence, as the superstar encouraged people to embrace individuality rather than chase perfection, a message that has resonated widely amid ongoing debates about beauty standards and social media pressure.

The show also discussed Busta Rhymes’ settlement with a former assistant, ending a legal battle that began with allegations of unpaid wages and workplace misconduct. According to recent court filings, the dispute was settled for $25,000, a dramatic reduction from the nearly $6 million originally sought by the former employee. 

Lauren London has been cast to play Snoop Dogg’s late mother, Beverly Tate, in the upcoming Snoop Dogg biopic. The role is especially meaningful because Tate is credited with giving Snoop his famous nickname, and recent reports reveal the film will also feature actors portraying Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre as it chronicles the rap icon’s rise to fame. 

Singer Kehlani opened up about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, explaining how therapy, medication, and understanding her triggers have transformed her life and improved her mental health journey. 

Dr. MJ Collier is back on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show Podcast, giving advice about health and wellness. 

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show tackled a mix of major headlines, celebrity news, and cultural conversations, starting with the Trump administration’s decision to temporarily pause immigrant visa appointments worldwide while consular officers undergo additional training tied to screening applicants for possible reliance on public benefits. The show also highlighted actor and singer Tyrese Gibson’s arrival in Uganda, where he is helping launch the country’s “Explore Uganda Coffee Tourism” campaign, a nationwide effort designed to showcase Uganda’s coffee industry, cultural heritage, and tourism attractions through visits to the Source of the Nile, coffee farms, and the Africa Coffee Park. Recent reports note that Uganda is using high-profile international figures like Tyrese to boost global awareness of its coffee sector and tourism potential.   The biggest emotional moment of the show centered on the passing of country music legend Dolly Parton at age 80, with the crew sharing personal memories and celebrating her impact on music, philanthropy, and culture. The conversation was amplified by tributes from stars including Beyoncé, who called Parton “the North Star” and praised her influence on generations of artists following their collaboration on Cowboy Carter. The show also explored Tyrese’s claim that his hit “How You Gonna Act Like That” was inspired by Kim Kardashian’s first marriage, while a lively debate broke out after 50 Cent declared that hip-hop is a “young man’s game,” prompting pushback from Rick Ross and others who argued that artists should continue creating as long as they remain connected to the culture and their fans. Along with Wellness Wednesday advice from Dr. MJ Collier, the morning was filled with heartfelt tributes, celebrity tea, and thought-provoking discussion about legacy, longevity, and cultural impact.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

The biggest emotional moment of the show centered on the passing of country music legend Dolly Parton at age 80, with the crew sharing personal memories and celebrating her impact on music, philanthropy, and culture. The show also explored Tyrese’s claim that his hit “How You Gonna Act Like That” was inspired by Kim Kardashian’s first marriage. 

A lively debate broke out after 50 Cent declared that hip-hop is a “young man’s game,” prompting pushback from Rick Ross and others who argued that artists should continue creating as long as they remain connected to the culture and their fans. 

The biggest emotional moment of the show centered on the passing of country music legend Dolly Parton at age 80, with the crew sharing personal memories and celebrating her impact on music, philanthropy, and culture. The conversation was amplified by tributes from stars including Beyoncé, who called Parton “the North Star” and praised her influence on generations of artists following their collaboration on Cowboy Carter. 

The show also highlighted actor and singer Tyrese Gibson’s arrival in Uganda, where he is helping launch the country’s “Explore Uganda Coffee Tourism” campaign, a nationwide effort designed to showcase Uganda’s coffee industry, cultural heritage, and tourism attractions through visits to the Source of the Nile, coffee farms, and the Africa Coffee Park. Recent reports note that Uganda is using high-profile international figures like Tyrese to boost global awareness of its coffee sector and tourism potential.  

The Trump administration decided to temporarily pause immigrant visa appointments worldwide while consular officers undergo additional training tied to screening applicants for possible reliance on public benefits. 

Toya Johnson Rushing joins Rickey Smiley for a deeply personal conversation about her journey from the spotlight of reality TV to a life centered on "protecting her peace." Toya opens up about the evolution of her motherhood, the distinct differences in how she raised Reginae versus Reign, and the importance of having a partner like Robert "Red" Rushing who truly makes her feel "seen and heard." This episode goes beyond the headlines, offering a rare look at the woman behind the entrepreneur and the strength it took to navigate fame while building a legacy of her own. The conversation takes a raw and emotional turn as Toya discusses the profound loss of her two brothers and her ongoing journey through grief. She shares how she turned her pain into purpose through her "Weight No More" health initiative and gives a transparent look at her co-parenting relationship with Lil Wayne. From hilarious stories about "giving the eyes" in Vegas to powerful insights on faith and resilience, this episode is a masterclass in growth, grace, and knowing your worth. CHAPTERS (0:00) - Introduction: Toya Johnson on Growth and Peace (4:46) - New Orleans Roots: Family Recipes and Mother Nita’s Gumbo (5:44) - Leaving Reality TV: Why Toya Prioritizes Her Peace (10:06) - Parenting Journey: Differences in Raising Reginae vs. Reign (12:00) - The Reality of TV Editing: Protecting Your Narrative (18:14) - Finding True Love: The Story of Toya and Red (27:40) - Overcoming Grief: Healing After the Loss of Her Brothers (35:11) - Co-Parenting with Lil Wayne: Respect and Maturity (38:45) - Health & Wellness: The Weight No More Initiative (50:14) - Lightning Round: Fun Facts and Toya’s Favorites

The show also unpacked the emotional breakup between actress and singer Serayah and rapper Joey Bada$, with Serayah claiming repeated infidelity led to the end of their engagement and relationship. She made it clear that her focus remains on co-parenting their young son while moving forward. The conversation also turned to Peacock’s newly announced Wendy Williams docuseries, a project reportedly being developed by former staff members from The Wendy Williams Show. The forthcoming series is expected to explore Wendy’s massive impact on radio and daytime television, though questions remain about her level of involvement. 

The crew discussed Target’s decision to remove a children’s Halloween clown costume after customers criticized it as offensive to the Black community, sparking a broader discussion about diversity, representation, and corporate accountability. 

The crew weighed in on reports that Will Smith wants the Academy to reconsider the 10-year ban he received following the infamous 2022 Oscars incident involving Chris Rock. While Smith remains eligible for future Oscar nominations, the discussion centered on whether enough time has passed and if the public is ready to move on. The show also unpacked the emotional breakup between actress and singer Serayah and rapper Joey Bada$, with Serayah claiming repeated infidelity led to the end of their engagement and relationship. According to the transcript, she made it clear that her focus remains on co-parenting their young son while moving forward.   The conversation also turned to Peacock’s newly announced Wendy Williams docuseries, a project reportedly being developed by former staff members from The Wendy Williams Show. The forthcoming series is expected to explore Wendy’s massive impact on radio and daytime television, though questions remain about her level of involvement. Adding to the cultural conversation, the crew discussed Target’s decision to remove a children’s Halloween clown costume after customers criticized it as offensive to the Black community, sparking a broader discussion about diversity, representation, and corporate accountability. The show also tackled a spirited What’s Trending debate on whether race matters in relationships after a viral photo of several NBA legends and their interracial marriages ignited strong reactions online, with listeners sharing personal perspectives on love, identity, and dating across racial lines.    Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

During What’s Trending the crew tackled a spirited What’s Trending debate on whether race matters in relationships after a viral photo of several NBA legends and their interracial marriages ignited strong reactions online, with listeners sharing personal perspectives on love, identity, and dating across racial lines.

The conversation also turned to Peacock’s newly announced Wendy Williams docuseries, a project reportedly being developed by former staff members from The Wendy Williams Show. The forthcoming series is expected to explore Wendy’s massive impact on radio and daytime television, though questions remain about her level of involvement.

The show also unpacked the emotional breakup between actress and singer Serayah and rapper Joey Bada$, with Serayah claiming repeated infidelity led to the end of their engagement and relationship. According to the transcript, she made it clear that her focus remains on co-parenting their young son while moving forward. 

The crew weighed in on reports that Will Smith wants the Academy to reconsider the 10-year ban he received following the infamous 2022 Oscars incident involving Chris Rock. While Smith remains eligible for future Oscar nominations, the discussion centered on whether enough time has passed and if the public is ready to move on.

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show packed the conversation with headline-making news, candid celebrity revelations, and inspirational moments. The show opened with the latest developments in the Karmelo Anthony case after a Texas judge denied the teenager’s request for a new trial, leaving his murder conviction and 35-year sentence in place while his legal team continues its appeal efforts. Recent reports indicate the retrial request centered on evidence and courtroom procedures that the defense argued were not fully presented to jurors, but the court ultimately upheld the original verdict. The crew also debated parenting and self-defense after Cardi B revealed she has enrolled her children in boxing classes and wants them to be able to protect themselves and, one day, defend her if necessary. Adding a more personal and meaningful conversation, singer Kehlani opened up about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, explaining how therapy, medication, and understanding her triggers have transformed her life and improved her mental health journey.   The show also celebrated a major career milestone for Jeezy, who was surprised by LeBron James with a Key to the City of Las Vegas during the finale of his “Legend of the Snowman” residency. Rather than ending the residency, Jeezy announced additional dates through New Year’s Eve, showing continued demand for the Atlanta rap icon. Listeners were also treated to Money Mondays with Jini Thornton, who shared practical advice on helping aging parents organize their finances, legal documents, and long-term care plans before a crisis occurs. Other trending topics included Jamie Foxx preparing to welcome another child, tributes to late actor Michael Wright of The Five Heartbeats, and a lively discussion about mental health, family, and protecting loved ones while navigating life’s challenges.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

Cardi B revealed she has enrolled her children in boxing classes and wants them to be able to protect themselves and, one day, defend her if necessary. Adding a more personal and meaningful conversation, singer Kehlani opened up about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, explaining how therapy, medication, and understanding her triggers have transformed her life and improved her mental health journey. 

Listeners were also treated to Money Mondays with Jini Thornton, who shared practical advice on helping aging parents organize their finances, legal documents, and long-term care plans before a crisis occurs. 

The show also celebrated a major career milestone for Jeezy, who was surprised by LeBron James with a Key to the City of Las Vegas during the finale of his “Legend of the Snowman” residency. Rather than ending the residency, Jeezy announced additional dates through New Year’s Eve, showing continued demand for the Atlanta rap icon. 

The crew also debated parenting and self-defense after Cardi B revealed she has enrolled her children in boxing classes and wants them to be able to protect themselves and, one day, defend her if necessary. Adding a more personal and meaningful conversation, singer Kehlani opened up about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, explaining how therapy, medication, and understanding her triggers have transformed her life and improved her mental health journey. 

The show opened with the latest developments in the Karmelo Anthony case after a Texas judge denied the teenager’s request for a new trial, leaving his murder conviction and 35-year sentence in place while his legal team continues its appeal efforts. Recent reports indicate the retrial request centered on evidence and courtroom procedures that the defense argued were not fully presented to jurors, but the court ultimately upheld the original verdict. 

The show began with news of a fatal plane crash in Alaska that claimed the lives of all eight people aboard a charter flight headed to a remote military radar site, prompting an ongoing federal investigation into what happened. The crew also discussed actress Keke Palmer’s heartfelt comments about Jennifer Lopez, revealing how working with the superstar on Hustlers transformed her perception of Lopez and led to a close mentor-like relationship despite years of public criticism directed at the singer and actress.  The conversation shifted to boxing greatness as undisputed champion Claressa Shields joined the show fresh off her dominant sixth-round TKO victory over Kaye Scott, a win that reclaimed the WBC and WBA middleweight titles after Shields dropped nearly 40 pounds to return to the division. Shields opened up about her training discipline, relationship with Papoose, future goals, music ambitions, and life beyond the ring. The crew also examined the latest developments in the Karmelo Anthony case, where his legal team is seeking a new trial after his murder conviction, arguing key evidence and courtroom decisions affected the outcome. Meanwhile, Gary’s Tea highlighted Zoe Saldaña’s remarkable rise to becoming the highest-grossing actor in film history, with her movies surpassing $15 billion worldwide thanks to blockbuster franchises including Avatar, Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

Gary’s Tea highlighted Zoe Saldaña’s remarkable rise to becoming the highest-grossing actor in film history, with her movies surpassing $15 billion worldwide thanks to blockbuster franchises including Avatar, Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy. 

The crew spoke with boxing greatness as undisputed champion Claressa Shields joined the show fresh off her dominant sixth-round TKO victory over Kaye Scott, a win that reclaimed the WBC and WBA middleweight titles after Shields dropped nearly 40 pounds to return to the division. Shields opened up about her training discipline, relationship with Papoose, future goals, music ambitions, and life beyond the ring. 

The crew spoke with boxing greatness as undisputed champion Claressa Shields joined the show fresh off her dominant sixth-round TKO victory over Kaye Scott, a win that reclaimed the WBC and WBA middleweight titles after Shields dropped nearly 40 pounds to return to the division. 

The crew also examined the latest developments in the Karmelo Anthony case, where his legal team is seeking a new trial after his murder conviction, arguing key evidence and courtroom decisions affected the outcome. 

The crew also discussed actress Keke Palmer’s heartfelt comments about Jennifer Lopez, revealing how working with the superstar on Hustlers transformed her perception of Lopez and led to a close mentor-like relationship despite years of public criticism directed at the singer and actress. 

The show began with news of a fatal plane crash in Alaska that claimed the lives of all eight people aboard a charter flight headed to a remote military radar site, prompting an ongoing federal investigation into what happened. 

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show delivered a mix of politics, celebrity reflection, entertainment news, and R&B nostalgia as the crew unpacked one of the week's biggest political feuds between Senator Jon Ossoff and President Donald Trump. Ossoff's sharp criticism of Trump over foreign policy and military issues sparked a heated back-and-forth that has become a major talking point in Georgia's closely watched Senate race. Meanwhile, the conversation turned deeply personal as Wendy Williams reportedly shared that she believes her current guardianship challenges may be karma for some of the harsh commentary she made during her years as a celebrity gossip host, a revelation that prompted thoughtful discussion about accountability, illness, and personal growth. Recent reports indicate that Williams made the comments during a private dinner with Charlamagne Tha God and Loren LoRosa, while continuing to navigate life under a court-appointed guardianship.   The show also welcomed Kandi Burruss back to the RSMS family, where she opened up about her live stage production I Do, I Did, I'm Done, inspired by her divorce journey and designed to mix music, storytelling, audience participation, and unfiltered truth. Burruss also discussed co-parenting, maintaining a united front for her children, and why reconciliation is not currently in the cards despite her amicable relationship with her ex-husband. The crew rounded out the morning by debating the highly anticipated Verzuz battle between Joe and Donell Jones, a celebration of two legendary R&B catalogs featuring classics that helped define the late '90s and early 2000s. Both artists have framed the event as a celebration rather than a competition, giving fans a chance to relive an era filled with timeless hits and unforgettable memories.  Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show 

Wendy Williams reportedly shared that she believes her current guardianship challenges may be karma for some of the harsh commentary she made during her years as a celebrity gossip host, a revelation that prompted thoughtful discussion about accountability, illness, and personal growth. Recent reports indicate that Williams made the comments during a private dinner with Charlamagne Tha God and Loren LoRosa, while continuing to navigate life under a court-appointed guardianship. 

The show also welcomed Kandi Burruss back to the RSMS family, where she opened up about her live stage production I Do, I Did, I'm Done, inspired by her divorce journey and designed to mix music, storytelling, audience participation, and unfiltered truth. Burruss also discussed co-parenting, maintaining a united front for her children, and why reconciliation is not currently in the cards despite her amicable relationship with her ex-husband. 

The crew rounded out the morning by debating the highly anticipated Verzuz battle between Joe and Donell Jones, a celebration of two legendary R&B catalogs featuring classics that helped define the late '90s and early 2000s. 

The show also welcomed Kandi Burruss back to the RSMS family, where she opened up about her live stage production I Do, I Did, I'm Done, inspired by her divorce journey and designed to mix music, storytelling, audience participation, and unfiltered truth. Burruss also discussed co-parenting, maintaining a united front for her children, and why reconciliation is not currently in the cards despite her amicable relationship with her ex-husband. Also, comedian and Rickey Smiley mentor, TK Kirland, joined the RSMS crew.  

Wendy Williams reportedly shared that she believes her current guardianship challenges may be karma for some of the harsh commentary she made during her years as a celebrity gossip host, a revelation that prompted thoughtful discussion about accountability, illness, and personal growth. Recent reports indicate that Williams made the comments during a private dinner with Charlamagne Tha God and Loren LoRosa, while continuing to navigate life under a court-appointed guardianship. 

The RSMS crew unpacked one of the week's biggest political feuds between Senator Jon Ossoff and President Donald Trump. Ossoff's sharp criticism of Trump over foreign policy and military issues sparked a heated back-and-forth that has become a major talking point in Georgia's closely watched Senate race.