Pastor Frederick Douglas Haynes shares an inspiring story about gospel singer Smokie Norful writing I Need You Now during a personal crisis, highlighting how challenges can spark creativity. News updates include Tropical Storm Erin nearing hurricane status, President Trump meeting with Vladimir Putin, and Air Canada preparing for a strike. In sports, the NBA schedule drops, Tyreek Hill’s growing family grabs headlines, and Pat Riley is set to get a Lakers statue. The Hot Spot covers New Edition’s 42nd anniversary and their new Boston street name, Offset reflecting on mistakes in his marriage to Cardi B, and Venus Williams getting her own Barbie doll. The crew wraps with a fun debate on which artist they’d listen to for a 12-hour road trip.