In this sports-focused episode of Mama We Made It, Dj and Reg dive deep into their experiences and perspectives from inside the sports industry.

They spotlight unsung women athletes, with Dj passionately defending boxing champion Claressa Shields and the lack of recognition she receives compared to other sports stars like Angel Reese.

They reflect on the evolving landscape of women’s sports, sharing excitement about athletes like Coco Gauff and broadcasters such as Maria Taylor and Taylor Rooks stepping into new spotlight roles at NBC and Amazon. As they explore their complicated relationships with major leagues, both open up about NFL fandom, the fallout from the Colin Kaepernick protests, gatekeeping in ownership, and how personal ethics intersect with the love of the game.

The duo also highlights their favorite sports to watch—tennis, track and field, and international soccer—giving flowers to icons and discussing future hopes for greater diversity and visibility across all levels of athletics. The episode closes with optimism for women’s sports gaining respect on their own terms, and a nod to those like Nico Harrison in the NBA who are reshaping the conversation. It’s a heartfelt, honest, and wide-ranging take on what’s good in sports today.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VunSaWTWB4s

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with Dj & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome back to Mama We Made It! with Dj and Reg. Today, they get into the art and etiquette of summer gatherings, breaking down what defines a cookout, set, or barbecue in Black culture. The duo kick things off with some overdue recognition for legendary director Michael Schultz before diving into the real rules of the backyard: from how much it really costs to feed a crowd to why you should never show up empty-handed (unless the host insists).

Dj and Reg keep it honest about potluck pitfalls, what dishes should stay home (keep your raisins and store-bought cookies, please), and why food integrity—and vibes—matter more than ever.

The conversation goes beyond food as they talk dress codes (toes out or nah?), lineup for the grill, and the power of a well-crafted playlist. Etiquette around elders, prayer, and taking home plates gets a thoughtful, funny spin reflecting their own family traditions and experiences. By the end, Dj and Reg deliver a summer survival guide for anyone planning or attending a cookout, making sure everyone leaves full, happy, and with a few new rules to live by.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hRNUQbB1yyM

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with Dj & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome to Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg! This week, they dive into the realities of "culture jacking" in corporate America, reflecting on their lived experiences as Black professionals navigating both personal and organizational spaces. They share stories of loss and renewal—starting with poignant tales about old trees in their neighborhoods—before drawing parallels to the ways Black culture is often appropriated and repackaged by brands and media. DJ spotlights data on Black media consumption and its impact on narrative control, while Reg unpacks the intricate relationship between branding, race, and authenticity in advertising.

Together, they challenge the ways non-Black creatives co-opt Black art and language, shaping perceptions and erasing origins—using vivid examples like the repurposing of hip-hop tracks in commercials and the rise of the "cool white boy/girl" in marketing circles. The hosts dig into their time at Nike (the "swoosh"), examining how real cultural insight and lived experience matter within corporate walls and weighing what's lost when those voices are sidelined. Through candid reflection, DJ and Reg celebrate the skills, leadership, and resilience forged in those demanding environments, offering listeners both cautionary tales and empowering lessons about self-definition, narrative ownership, and the importance of staying true to one's community.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/T4jqxcw6knE

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

DJ and Reg get real about their early days in corporate America and what they wish they’d known stepping into their first jobs. They swap stories about growing up on kung fu movies, the lessons of childhood combat fantasies, and pivot to foundational advice for navigating the workforce. DJ recounts his time as an inventory and logistics specialist at General Motors, reflecting on undervaluing his first role (and the importance of dressing for success), while Reg shares lessons from his start in pharmaceuticals and the value of mentorship—and humility—on the job.

Together, they break down why understanding the bigger picture at work can be a game-changer, the myth of “genius” in the boardroom, and why it pays to speak up even when you’re new. The conversation is packed with practical advice, from maximizing that 401k early, to respecting everyone in the building (from custodians to executives). With honesty and humor, DJ and Reg give listeners real talk on getting your money right, learning from seasoned coworkers, and embracing both mistakes and small wins on the path to “making it.” Whether you’re about to start your journey or decades in, this episode serves up wisdom on how to succeed while staying true to yourself.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M6tKWAgzNMA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome to Mama We Made It! with DJ & Reg. While this episode was recorded before Sly’s recent passing, it takes on new resonance as DJ & Reg dig into the revelatory documentary Sly Lives, which chronicles the genius and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone.

They deliver their honest, nuanced reactions to Questlove’s powerful film—praising its vibrant storytelling, in-depth interviews with legendary musicians, and its candid look at Sly Stone’s impact on Black culture and music innovation. DJ shares the personal inspiration he’s drawn from Sly’s music since childhood, while Reg reflects on the roots of Black genius, the role of church in fostering creative expression, and his own surprise at how much he learned from the film.

They touch on the documentary’s exploration of liberation, vulnerability, and the emotional toll of artistic genius, with standout commentary from artists like D’Angelo, Q-Tip, and George Clinton. DJ & Reg both highlight the bittersweet realities of Sly’s rise, fall, and enduring influence, from creative highs to the pain of isolation, addiction, and the complexities of ownership and legacy. The discussion unpacks broader questions about what it means to “make it” as a Black creator, and how shifts in music ownership reflect changes in both culture and commerce. Ultimately, DJ and Reg make the case for why “Sly Lives” is essential viewing—especially for anyone passionate about Black creativity, resilience, and musical history.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xdYM8D1iCZA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In this week's episode of Mama We Made It, hosts DJ and Reg dive deep into the new series "Forever," offering up their heartfelt and unfiltered reactions. They explore the show's nuanced approach to Black love, heartbreak, parenting, and coming-of-age, reflecting on how its authentic storytelling feels like a camera pointed straight into their own lives and living rooms. Reg shares his lifelong connection to seminal Black authors and how seeing Judy Blume's work adapted by Mara Brock Akil struck a personal chord, while DJ opens up about his upbringing, first heartbreak, and the rich dimensions of Black family relationships depicted on screen.

They praise standout performances, highlighting Wood Harris's real and relatable portrayal of fatherhood and the complexity of young love between Justin and Keisha. The discussion covers critical themes like navigating adolescence in predominantly white spaces, addressing mental health in the Black community, and the layered realities of modern Black parenting. Together, they unpack some of the show's most challenging moments—including issues of consent, the role of the village, and intergenerational dynamics—while debating whether they really need a second season or if the series stands strong as it is. If you haven't watched "Forever" yet, the DJ & Reg make a passionate case for adding it to your must-see list.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3cJQ6t84Mkk

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In this episode of Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg break down the latest Pew Research Center data on Black America, reflecting on its significance and real-life implications.

They take a close look at why the number of people self-identifying as Black in the US matters, examine patterns in migration with a focus on African and Caribbean immigration, and unpack differences in education and household wealth across racial groups. They also discuss the evolution of self-reported race in census data and its importance, and highlight why access to accurate data is essential for teaching, community building, and shaping the narrative around Black existence. With engaging personal stories and a historical lens, this episode delivers an honest, matter-of-fact look at the current state and future of the Black community in America.

Pew Research Center - Key facts about the U.S. Black population - https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2025/01/23/key-facts-about-black-americans/

Pew Reserach Center: https://www.pewresearch.org/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A5WMrVnVFkU

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome back to Mama We Made It! DJ and Reg continue their conversation with Nakeia Medcalf for a rich, SPOILER HEAVY! discussion on Ryan Coogler's latest film "Sinners." The trio brings their unique perspectives as Black Christians, exploring how the movie's treatment of faith, legacy, and the afterlife resonated with their own church upbringings. Nakeia dives into the Pentecostal echoes she felt throughout the film, from musical moments to themes of spiritual "crossing over." At the same time, Reg highlights the nuanced portrayal of family, community, and the southern Black experience. DJ reflects on how the film reawakened childhood memories of Sunday school and why small details like treats and color symbolism matter.

Together, they break down everything from the power dynamics between characters, the significance of southern setting as "character," and the use of imagery like plantation money and juke joints. The conversation also zooms out to examine Coogler's groundbreaking business deal—touching on artistic autonomy, ownership, and legacy in Hollywood. The episode closes with a round of favorite lines, thoughts on representation, and major love for Black creatives telling Black stories.

Resources:
Hannah Beachler and set design inspiration:
https://variety.com/2025/artisans/news/sinners-easter-egg-black-panther-howlin-wolf-hannah-beachler-1236378489/

Symbolism and subtext:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/movies/sinners-symbolism.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Hollywood undermining Sinners:
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/26/the-smash-success-of-sinners-could-shift-hollywoods-power-balance/

Key interesting reviews:
https://jacobin.com/2025/04/sinners-coogler-race-history-horror/

https://collider.com/what-should-hollywood-learn-from-sinners-success/

https://andscape.com/features/sinners-movie-brought-us-home-and-refused-to-let-vampires-take-it-from-us/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sinners-box-office-film_n_680abd8be4b031fa917d7773

Ryan Coogler Kodak video: technical discussion - aspect ratio, film stock, and more:
https://reactormag.com/sinners-director-ryan-coogler-explains-film-stock-and-aspect-ratios/

Ruth Carter interview on her process:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a64567733/sinners-ruth-e-carter-costumes-interview-2025/

Easter Eggs and hidden messages:
https://screenrant.com/sinners-secret-details-spotify-explainer/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tp7gnOcGxRA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f