Best Tavis Smiley Network Podcasts (2025)

1
Juneteenth Roundtable With Tavis Smiley and Co. 37:34

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10h ago37:34

37:34

KBLA Talk 1580 hosts Jesse Jackson Jr., Adrianne Shropshire, and Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, give their activist analysis of Juneteenth in the Trump era, energizing Black voters, and other trending socio-political topics. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Corinna Barrett Lain Joins Tavis Smiley 36:53

10h ago36:53

36:53

Corinna Barrett Lain, University of Richmond law professor and author of “Secrets of the Killing State: The Untold Story of Lethal Injection,” looks at where we are with the state-sponsored act of violence known as the death penalty. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Judge LaDoris Cordell Joins Tavis Smiley 38:28

10h ago38:28

38:28

Retired Superior Court and author of “Her Honor: My Life On The Bench. . . What Works, What's Broken, and How to Change It,” Judge LaDoris Cordell shares her thoughts about Juneteenth, the judicial branch under Trump, and other political topics. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Ali Siddiq joins Tavis Smiley 33:19

3d ago33:19

33:19

Comedian Ali Siddiq talks about his newest comedy special "Rugged," streaming now on YouTube, and why Vulture declared him to be stand-up comedy's most prolific storyteller. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Susan Sturm joins Tavis Smiley 33:36

3d ago33:36

33:36

Susan Sturm, Columbia Law School professor and Founding Director of the Center for Institutional and Social Change, takes us inside her new text “What Might Be: Confronting Racism to Transform Our Institutions.” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Maya Wiley joins Tavis Smiley 38:31

3d ago38:31

38:31

Maya Wiley, President and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, talks about her new memoir "Remember, You Are a Wiley," and her keynote address at this weekend’s Empowerment Congress for Juneteenth. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Philip Kadish joins Tavis Smiley 36:21

3d ago36:21

36:21

Philip Kadish, professor of American studies at Pace University in New York City, talks about his debut book “The Great White Hoax: 200 Years of Selling Racism in America.” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Adilah Barnes joins Tavis Smiley 15:37

3d ago15:37

15:37

Actor, author, and Co-Founder of the LA Women’s Theatre Festival, Adilah Barnes, talks about theatre in the time of Trump and why stories about Black people and women must be told. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Juan Proaño joins Tavis Smiley 20:38

3d ago20:38

20:38

Juan Proaño, head of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), is back with his assessment of the current immigration crackdown and centrist Democrat pushback on Mexican flags at protests. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Connie Rice joins Tavis Smiley 35:03

3d ago35:03

35:03

Connie Rice, civil rights attorney and co-founder of the Urban Peace Institute, talks about the trending political stories of the day. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Judge Faith Jenkins and Kenny Lattimore join Tavis Smiley 36:09

3d ago36:09

36:09

Faith Jenkins, former Manhattan prosecutor turned judge and creator of Virtual Justice, and her husband, Grammy-nominated R&B star Kenny Lattimore, talk about their lawsuit against "anonymous" YouTubers, and their upcoming projects. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Stefan Bradley joins Tavis Smiley 28:01

3d ago28:01

28:01

Stefan Bradley is in studio to talk about his new book “If We Don't Get It: A People's History of Ferguson,” and how it connects to this grim American moment. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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U.S. Rep. Robert Scott joins Tavis Smiley 15:46

3d ago15:46

15:46

U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) sounds off on this weekend’s military birthday parade in DC and “No Kings” protests everywhere else, as well as the current state of our Department of Education. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Nekima Levy Armstrong joins Tavis Smiley 20:13

3d ago20:13

20:13

Nekima Levy Armstrong, renowned civil rights attorney and founder of the Racial Justice Network, discusses the recent killing of Minnesota Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and other trending political topics. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
KBLA Talk 1580 Live Special: Trump Deploys Troops To LA (Part 3) 58:24

6d ago58:24

58:24

In the final installment of this special KBLA Talk 1580 Live series, Tavis Smiley and his guests explore the long-term consequences of the troop deployment to LA and examine what’s next for local leadership, public safety, and civic response. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
KBLA Talk 1580 Live Special: Trump Deploys Troops To LA (Part 2) 57:37

6d ago57:37

57:37

Tavis Smiley continues the conversation in Part 2 of this KBLA Talk 1580 Live series, diving deeper into the aftermath of Trump’s decision to send troops to LA. The panel reflects on community reactions, media narratives, and what this means for the city. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/sup…

1
KBLA Talk 1580 Live Special: Trump Deploys Troops To LA (Part 1) 57:25

6d ago57:25

57:25

In this special live broadcast on KBLA Talk 1580, Tavis Smiley breaks down Trump’s controversial decision to deploy troops to Los Angeles. Joined by colleagues and experts, the conversation unpacks the political and social implications of this move. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Mopreme Shakur joins Tavis Smiley 13:37

7d ago13:37

13:37

As we celebrate the birthday weekend of Tupac Shakur, his stepbrother Mopreme Shakur joins Tavis in studio with an update about his family’s ongoing efforts to find justice for his untimely death 29 years ago. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Dean Van Nguyen joins Tavis Smiley 21:27

7d ago21:27

21:27

Dean Van Nguyen, the Irish-Vietnamese author of the new book, “Words for My Comrades: A Political History of Tupac Shakur,” joins the show as we celebrate the late artist’s birthday weekend. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Christine Goodman joins Tavis Smiley 37:12

7d ago37:12

37:12

Christine Goodman, Pepperdine University law professor and constitutional law expert, joins Tavis in studio to review the current term of the U.S. Supreme Court, which wraps up later this month. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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John Nichols joins Tavis Smiley 36:10

7d ago36:10

36:10

John Nichols, National Affairs Correspondent for The Nation magazine, talks about Trump's use of military force on civilians and the Progressive response this weekend with “No Kings Day” protests scheduled nationwide. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Dr. Charles C. Daniels Jr. joins Tavis Smiley 35:47

9d ago35:47

35:47

With June being Men's Health Month and Father's Day around the corner, Tavis talks with Dr. Charles Daniel Jr., co-founder and CEO of the nonprofit organization Father's Uplift and author of the new book "Present: The Crisis of American Fatherhood and The Power of Showing Up." Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tav…

1
Jonathan Cohen joins Tavis Smiley 15:34

9d ago15:34

15:34

Jonathan D. Cohen, author of the new text “Losing Big: America’s Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling,” is back with a breakdown of the problem plaguing young men and so many communities. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Colorado State Sen. Tony Exum joins Tavis Smiley 21:10

9d ago21:10

21:10

Colorado Springs Democrat Sen. Tony Exum explains how he was able to pass a new requirement to teach Black history in Colorado schools in the midst of the national DEI pushback. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Judd Legum joins Tavis Smiley 35:58

9d ago35:58

35:58

Judd Legum, author of the political newsletter Popular Information, and former Hillary Clinton insider, gives his progressive take on how Democrats should respond to President Donald Trump’s domestic use of the military. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Daphnique Springs joins Tavis Smiley 16:31

10d ago16:31

16:31

Comedian Daphnique Springs talks about her new Hulu special “LOL! Live,” her upcoming Juneteenth show at the Icehouse in Pasadena, and her national tour dates. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Rachel Laryea joins Tavis Smiley 20:10

10d ago20:10

20:10

By KBLA Talk 1580

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Jay King joins Tavis Smiley 14:25

10d ago14:25

14:25

Grammy-nominated singer, record producer, and founder of the legendary R&B group Club Nouveau, Jay King, talks to Tavis about the multifaceted funk frontman and visionary musician Sly Stone, who passed away Monday at age 82. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Marcus Anthony Hunter joins Tavis Smiley 34:44

10d ago34:44

34:44

By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Rabbi Steven Jacobs & Edward Ahmed Mitchell joins Tavis Smiley 22:29

10d ago22:29

22:29

By KBLA Talk 1580

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Adolph Reed joins Tavis Smiley 36:17

12d ago36:17

36:17

Adolph Reed, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Pennsylvania, is back with his take on the demise of the Democrats, the predictable meltdown of the Trump-Musk bromance, and how we bounce back from it all. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Paul Allen Billings joins Tavis Smiley 15:45

12d ago15:45

15:45

Paul Allen Billings, General Manager of our affiliate stations WHBP in Orlando, Florida and WUVS in Muskegon, Michigan, tells us about the ultimate radio promotion - a free trip to Africa for low-income kids! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Leah Boustan joins Tavis Smiley 19:30

12d ago19:30

19:30

Leah Boustan, Princeton economics professor and co-author of the text, “Streets of Gold: America's Untold Story of Immigrant Success,” exposes right-wing myths about crime by America’s newest residents. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Barbara McQuade joins Tavis Smiley 35:51

12d ago35:51

35:51

Barbara McQuade, former U.S. Attorney and author of the New York Times bestselling book “Attack From Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America,” tells us how disinformation and violence are part of the same authoritarian playbook. Plus, the latest on Donald Trump deploying the National Guard to LA amid immigration raids. Become a supporter o…

1
John Ridley joins Tavis Smiley 36:05

12d ago36:05

36:05

John Ridley, Oscar-winning screenwriter and co-host of the “Doc Talk” podcast, reflects on his long career and shares his latest project, a cultural arts center in his hometown of Milwaukee. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Clarence Thomas joins Tavis Smiley 37:21

12d ago37:21

37:21

Clarence Thomas, former labor union leader, Ryan Coogler’s uncle, and author of the book “Mobilizing In Our Own Name: Million Worker March,” joins Tavis in studio to talk about his extraordinary life and the immense power of his union to affect the global economy. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--62…

1
Shermichael Singleton joins Tavis Smiley 38:08

12d ago38:08

38:08

Shermichael Singleton, conservative CNN commentator, talks about MAGA remorse and being co-owner of the Guns Out firearms media company and co-founder of We The Free TV. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Erika Alexander and Saru Jayaraman Joins Tavis Smiley 38:19

16d ago38:19

38:19

Erika Alexander, actor and Economic Justice Advocate, and Saru Jayaraman, President of One Fair Wage, take us inside this week’s launch of a national Living Wage For All campaign. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Ray Richardson Joins Tavis Smiley 16:32

16d ago16:32

16:32

Ray Richardson, veteran sports journalist and host of the sports show "Out of Bounds" on KBLA Talk 1580, looks at the new generation of Black female tennis stars tearing it up at the French Open this year and the NBA Finals. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Daniel Kyri Joins Tavis Smiley 20:37

16d ago20:37

20:37

Daniel Kyri, best known for playing Darren Ritter on “Chicago Fire,” shares his latest title role in the audio drama “Hamlet,” which has its World Listening Premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival this Thursday, and his debut EP. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Charles Blow Joins Tavis Smiley 35:06

16d ago35:06

35:06

Charles Blow, former New York Times Opinion columnist, tells us about his Langston Hughes Fellowship at Harvard and why Democrats need to start fighting back. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Mykelti Williamson, Kip Konwiser, and Jon Avnet join Tavis Smiley 36:40

17d ago36:40

36:40

Actor Mykelti Williamson, producer Kip Konwiser, and director Jon Avnet talk about their inspiring sports drama "The Last Rodeo" and how they are telling meaningful stories. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

1
Elizabeth Wilkins joins Tavis Smiley 20:15

17d ago20:15

20:15

Elizabeth Wilkins, president and CEO of the Roosevelt Institute (and daughter of the legendary Roger Wilkins), reveals how a possible recession will impact Black America and shares how the progressive legacy of FDR and Eleanor can help shape the Democratic Party in the future. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tav…

1
Ryan Grim joins Tavis Smiley 41:45

17d ago41:45

41:45

Ryan Grim, co-founder of Drop Site and co-host of “Counter Points,” is back to connect the dots between Andrew Cuomo, the front-runner in the New York City mayor’s race, and supporters of the Netanyahu regime in Israel. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

1
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols joins Tavis Smiley 15:25

17d ago15:25

15:25

Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols talks about the creation of The Greenwood Trust, a $105 million reparations package, as the city addresses the systemic impact of the 1921 atrocity. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Erik G. Wexler joins Tavis Smiley 17:19

18d ago17:19

17:19

Erik G. Wexler, President and CEO of Providence, talks about the "polycrisis" facing America's health care system and how we can chart a new path to health equity. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Debbie J. Goldman joins Tavis Smiley 22:27

18d ago22:27

22:27

Debbie J. Goldman, former research director and telecommunications policy director with the Communications Workers of America, talks about her new book "Disconnected: Call Center Workers Fight For Good Jobs In The Digital Age" and why we can't overlook the struggle of service workers in this critical time of change. Become a supporter of this podca…

1
Andrew Goldberg and Eric Ward join Tavis Smiley 40:41

18d ago40:41

40:41

Andrew Goldberg and Eric Ward go inside their new documentary “White With Fear," which exposes the decades-long war by the conservative political machine to amass power, exploit Black people, and stoke narratives of white victimization. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.…

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Gov. David Paterson joins Tavis Smiley 38:34

18d ago38:34

38:34

Former New York Governor David Paterson (D-NY) talks politics with Tavis, including this month's primary for New York City mayor. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.By KBLA Talk 1580

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Dr. Maulana Karenga joins Tavis Smiley 37:50

22d ago37:50

37:50

The founder of Kwanzaa and chair of the Department of Africana Studies at California State University Long Beach, Dr. Maulana Karenga talks about socio-political issues and his forthcoming book, "The Liberation Ethics of Hajj Malcolm: Critical Consciousness, Moral Grounding and Transformative Struggle." Become a supporter of this podcast: https://w…