Kwame Johnson joins Rickey Smiley for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about redemption, mentorship, and the urgent need to invest in young people. As President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, Johnson has dedicated his life to helping young people reach their full potential, but his path to leadership was anything but conventional.

From spending time in solitary confinement as a teenager to graduating from college and later attending Harvard, Johnson shares how mentorship, faith, and second chances transformed his life. The conversation explores the challenges facing youth in Atlanta, including poverty, homelessness, mental health struggles, and the growing need for positive role models.

Johnson also discusses the innovative Level Up mentoring program, which places paid mentors directly inside schools, and explains why mentorship should be viewed as a community responsibility rather than simply a nonprofit initiative.

CHAPTERS

00:45 Rickey Introduces Kwame Johnson

01:00 The Impact Of Big Brothers Big Sisters In Atlanta

(01:42) Kwame's Journey From Trouble To Purpose

(03:06) Why Young People Need Access More Than Talent

(05:03) Faith, Hope & Second Chances

(06:17) Why Today's Youth Want To "See" The Sermon

(07:01) The History Of Big Brothers Big Sisters

(08:14) Creating Mentors Inside Schools

(09:36) Poverty, Education & Opportunity In Atlanta

(10:49) The Reality Of Students Living In Hotels

(12:23) How Mentorship Changes Outcomes

(13:51) The Origin Of The Level Up Program

(16:05) Rickey's Plea For More Mentors

(18:43) How To Get Involved With Big Brothers Big Sisters

(19:20) Why Mentorship Should Be A Community Responsibility

(21:09) Why Men Often Hesitate To Mentor

(22:23) "You're Enough" Kwame's Message To Men

(23:32) Turning Pain Into Purpose

(24:27) The Hope Inside & Final Thoughts

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Tye Tribbett joins Rickey Smiley On The Spot for an unforgettable conversation about faith, family, music, and perseverance. Ty opens up about his journey from playing in local churches to becoming one of gospel music’s most electrifying performers. He shares how “Victory” changed his life, why people once misunderstood his energetic style, and the emotional meaning behind songs like “He Turned It.” Rickey and Ty also dive into hilarious church stories, gospel legends, comedy, and the real-life moments that shaped Ty’s career and faith journey. This episode is full of laughter, transparency, and inspiration from start to finish.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro

(02:45) – Tye Tribbett Reveals The Pain Behind The Song

(04:20) – Growing Up In Camden, New Jersey

(05:00) – Church, Family & Learning Music From His Father

(06:40) – Becoming A Choir Director By Accident

(08:05) – Sneaking Jazz Music Growing Up

(09:20) – Tye’s First Major Hit “Victory”

(10:40) – Being Different In Gospel Music

(11:15) – Gospel Legends That Inspired Tye Tribbett

(12:45) – Anti-Bullying Campaign & Childhood Trauma

(14:20) – Tye Opens Up About Losing His Father

(16:40) – Rickey Smiley Gives Powerful Advice About Grief 19:00 – Therapy, Mental Health & Performing Through Pain

(21:45) – “We Outside” Tour Announcement

(22:15) – Hilarious Bishop Sheard Story

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

T.I. pulled up to On The Spot with Rickey Smiley and delivered one of the funniest and most authentic conversations we’ve had yet. From Atlanta culture and Birthday Bash memories to parenting, music, strip clubs, comedy, and the legacy behind the King album, TIP gave fans a raw and hilarious look into his world. The King of the South talks about returning to music with his hit single “Let ‘Em Know,” why the record instantly felt special, and how listeners of ALL ages turned it into an anthem. He also reflects on headlining the 30th anniversary of Birthday Bash, ATL culture, Magic City stories, and the evolution of Atlanta’s music scene.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) – Intro & Rickey/T.I. Comedy Banter
(03:15) – Birthday Bash 30 & Headlining Atlanta’s Biggest Stage
(05:00) – T.I. Explains His Birthday Bash Preparation Process
(07:45) – “Let ‘Em Know” Becoming A Massive Hit
(09:15) – Rickey Smiley Says The Song Almost Got Him Fired
(12:20) – Recording Music On A Yacht In Miami
(14:10) – Magic City & Atlanta Strip Club Culture
(15:30) – The Real Meaning Behind The King Album
(18:00) – ATL Movie & Skating Memories
(20:15) – Parenting Stories & Raising King, Domani & Heiress
(24:00) – Acting, Comedy & Returning To Stand-Up
(30:00) – Final Album Kill The King Discussion
(36:00) – Family, Legacy & Fatherhood
(45:00) – Finish The Lyrics Game

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary With Da Tea pulled up to On The Spot with Rickey Smiley for one of the FUNNIEST and most honest conversations we’ve had yet. From getting chased home as a kid, surviving cancer, working at Wendy’s, getting confronted by T.I., mental health, radio beginnings, celebrity gossip, and the chaos of life behind the scenes — Gary gave us EVERYTHING. The two longtime friends share hilarious untold stories from The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, emotional moments from Gary’s personal life, and nonstop laughs that only they could deliver.

Gary also opens up about living with bipolar disorder, surviving colon cancer, and the journey that turned him into one of the most recognizable voices in entertainment. If you thought Gary was funny on the radio… this episode takes it to another level.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) Intro + Walgreens Story

(01:05) Rickey Introduces Gary With Da Tea

(03:23) Gary Talks 30 Years In Radio

(04:08) Why Gary Originally Wanted To Be A Nurse

(05:11) Gary’s First Job At Wendy’s

(06:27) The Wendy’s Chili Incident

(09:02) How Gary Met Rickey Smiley

(11:00) Gary’s Start On The Rickey Smiley Morning Show

(12:16) Gary Talks Mental Health + Bipolar Disorder

(14:13) Growing Up In Port Arthur, Texas

(16:41) Gary Opens Up About Surviving Colon Cancer

(18:50) Why Gary Cries In The Car

(21:23) The Origin Of “Color of the Day”

(22:05) T.I. Confronts Gary In Beverly Hills

(24:00) Gary Talks Being Bullied Growing Up

(25:52) Gary Discusses His Podcasts + Tea Parties

(26:34) Rickey Calls Out Gary’s Bills Constantly Being Late

(28:46) Fire Department Kicks Gary’s Door Down

(32:31) Gary’s Shopping Addiction + Zara Confession

(34:22) Walgreens Story Gets Worse

(35:59) Final Thoughts + Social Handles

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Atlanta mayor and gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms joins Rickey Smiley for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation on On The Spot. From growing up in Atlanta to serving as mayor and later advising in the White House, Keisha shares her journey through leadership, public service, and the moments that shaped her path. She opens up about what it was like working inside the White House, the responsibility of representing her community at the highest level, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation dives into the current political climate, voting rights, and why civic engagement is more important than ever. Keisha speaks candidly about the challenges facing democracy and the importance of showing up, staying informed, and being intentional about the future. Keisha shares her vision, what drives her, and why this moment matters.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Introduction: Meet Keisha Lance Bottoms

(02:23) – What It Was Like Being Mayor of Atlanta

(06:45) – Her Impact While In Office

(07:02) – HBCUs & Greek Life

(11:47) - The Danger Of Losing Democracy

(20:03) - State of the Democratic Party

(24:58) – Running for Governor of Georgia

(27:34) – Voter Suppression & Election Concerns

(31:05) – White House Experience

(40:00) – Mac & Cheese Debate

(42:46) – Rapid Fire Questions

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity. From laugh-out-loud stories to deeply personal moments, Rickey creates a space where guests can let their guard down, share their truth, and reflect on life, faith, family, and growth. Whether he’s trading jokes with celebrity friends, offering unexpected wisdom, or exploring the issues shaping our culture, Rickey reminds listeners why he’s been a voice they can laugh with — and learn from — for decades. Blending comedy, culture, and conversation, On The Spot delivers the authenticity and energy that only Rickey Smiley can bring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Rickey Smiley sits down with Corey Lamar, father and former manager of Rich Homie Quan, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about loss, faith, and healing.From surviving a life-changing shooting to navigating the unimaginable loss of his son, Corey opens up about grief, mental health, and what it truly takes to keep going. He shares the reality of fatherhood, the weight of legacy, and the lessons learned from both the highs and lows of the music industry.This episode dives into the emotional moments behind the headlines, including their final conversations, the impact of mental health, and how faith and purpose continue to guide him forward.

CHAPTERS

(0:00) - Introduction: Honoring Rich Homie Quan’s Legacy

(02:19) - Faith & Resilience: Waking Up After the Unthinkable

(03:09) - The One-Year Anniversary: Navigating the Hardest Week

(05:20) - A New Reality: The Daily Journey Through Grief

(09:52) - Corey Lamar’s Roots: From the Barber Shop to Managing a Star

(10:20) - Surviving a Shooting for His Son

(15:41) - The Weight of the Estate, Grandchildren & More

(20:39) - The Shy Kid Behind the Superstar

(23:09) - Fatherhood & Fame

(24:06) - Recognizing the Red Flags

(26:00) - The Final Conversation: A Last "I Love You" Between Father & Son

(29:29) - The Day Everything Changed

(35:24) - Living for Yourself & Self-Care

(37:18) - A Message to Black Men & Mental Health

(50:30) - Processing Grief

(1:00:00) - The Legacy Continues: New Music & Scholarships for Rich Homie Quan

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Rickey Smiley sits down with trailblazing rapper, actress, and media personality Da Brat for a conversation that is candid, personal, and full of perspective. From breaking barriers in hip-hop as the first female rapper to go platinum to navigating life after prison, building a presence in radio and television, and stepping into motherhood later in life, Da Brat shares the experiences that have shaped her journey. She speaks on personal growth, mental health, relationships, and what it means to evolve while staying true to yourself. From career to family, from challenges to new beginnings, this episode offers insight into the mindset behind the legacy.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) Intro

(02:42) Life after prison and transition into radio

(04:24) IVF Journey Miscarriages, and More

(10:44) Life as a new mother

(18:36) Acting on The Chi and Chicago roots

(22:15) Early rap influences

(24:23) Female rap pioneers and inspiration

(28:04) Handling criticism and public perception

(31:39) Therapy, anger, and personal reflection

(35:22) Transition into radio and television

(38:37) Chris Brown “Look At Me Now” story

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a respected voice in culture sits down with a host known for real conversations, you get something deeper than an interview.

On this episode of Rickey Smiley On The Spot, Rickey Smiley sits down with Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, and community leader Killer Mike for a conversation that is insightful, reflective, and impactful.

From growing up in Atlanta surrounded by the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. to building businesses, investing in his community, and navigating today’s cultural and political landscape, Killer Mike shares perspectives shaped by experience, purpose, and leadership. From music to money, from legacy to responsibility, this episode goes beyond the headlines and into the mindset behind the man.

Two influential voices. One meaningful conversation.

CHAPTERS

(00:00) - Intro

(02:00) - Atlanta Roots & Early Influences

(03:21) - Morehouse, HBCU Legacy & The Power of Education

(05:24) - Atlanta’s Impact on Global Leadership

(09:01) - Early Career & The OutKast Connection

(15:28) - Transitioning to Activism & Organizing

(18:06) - Why Liberty is Perpetually in Danger

(24:30) - The Real State of Hip-Hop Today

(28:23) - The "Michael" Album: Telling My Story

(33:23) - The Power of Investing in Women

(38:13) - Family, Fatherhood & Legacy

(43:06) - The Atlanta Protest Story & Leading in Crisis

Rickey Smiley On The Spot is Rickey in his truest form — Authentic. Funny. Heartfelt. Honest. Each episode brings audiences up close with one of comedy’s most trusted voices as he dives into real conversations that mix humor with humanity.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.