Friends Like Us

Dive into a compelling discussion on embracing vulnerability, caregiving, and the complex relationships we have with our mothers. Join Marina Franklin and her incredible guests, Angela Nissel and Charla Lauriston, for a powerful episode.  Angela Nissel is an author and television writer-producer best known for her comedic memoirs *The Broke Diaries* and *Mixed*, as well as her work on TV shows lik...

Friends have a powerful conversation about "The Cost Of Healing In Silence" with Marina Franklin and guests Ashley McGirt and Nonye Brown-West on the latest episode. Ashley McGirt is a psychotherapist, TEDxinternational speaker, author, and the founder and CEO of theTherapy Fund Foundation, a nonprofit focused on eliminating barriers to mental health care in Black and historically excluded communi...

This Friends Like Us Podcast, Host Marina Franklin talks with Leeanet Noble  and Lauretta Noble about rich narratives and legacy embedded in their new book:  'BLACK, WHITE, COLORED: The Hidden History of an Insurrection, a Southern Town, and Identity in America.' Join me in conversation with its passionate authors. Lauretta Malloy Noble is a critically acclaimed performer, writer, vocalist, musici...

This week, host Marina Franklin is joined by Von Decarlo and Ant Pruitt, and we discuss life, faith and finding purpose at every age. Von's new book, 'Fine Over Fifty' is not just a book title; it's a vibe!  Von Decarlo is an introspective stand-up comedian and entertainment professional who has transformed a life of hardship into purpose. From Clairton, Pennsylvania, to a thriving career in New Y...

This Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin talks to Nourbese Flint and Leighann Lord about the battle for reproductive justice and community building.  Nourbese Flint  is President of All* Above All and All* In All Action Fund, leading All* Above All's work to achieve abortion justice and build the political power of voters of color.  She previously served as Vice President of Strategy. Prior to c...

Host Marina Franklin and young star Nonye Brown-West talk with Allie Redhorse Young as they celebrate Native American Heritage Month. They discuss the siginficance of preserving cultural narratives like cowgirl culture!   Allie Redhorse Young is a powerhouse Diné organizer, storyteller, and founder of Protect the Sacred, where she's educating and empowering the next generation of Native youth and...

October, we're spotlighting Breast Cancer Awareness Month with powerful stories of resilience and advocacy. Tune in to hear from Marina Franklin's incredible friends Jenny Saldana and Christina Bernard as we discuss survival, hope, and healthcare challenges. Christina Bernard , a stage 4 cancer thriver, chaplain, and motivational speaker, utilizes her global platform to convert pain into purpose a...

Join Marina Franklin on the latest Friends Like Us podcast with special guests Jon Laster & Marlon Nichols as they dive into the world of venture capital, diversity in tech, and the untapped potential in Africa. Don't miss this insightful episode!  Jon Laster is known for One Bedroom (2018), No More Mr Nice Guy (2018) and The 2019 ESPY Awards (2019) and check out his new series An Astute Woman Web...

This Friends Like Us, join your host Marina Franklin, Shang Forbes, and Hollie Harper. They weave humor into today's most pressing topics - Like, is Marjorie Taylor Green not so Maga anymore? Tune in now for laughs and insights. SHANG, a transplanted New Yorker whose carefully nurtured evolution from stand-up comedy to socio-political satire gives heavy flight to the spoken and outspoken word. SHA...

 Dive into comedic genius with Keith Robinson and Ian Edwards on the latest episode of "Friends Like Us." Don't miss their hilarious takes and Ian's new comedy special "Untitled" on YouTube! Keep those laughs coming!  Ian Edwards is a stand-up comedian, actor, and writer, recognized for his sharp wit, dark humor, and provocative content. His new special "Untitled" is available on YouTube. Untitled...

  This week on Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin talks with Memo Salazar and Lorre Fisher.  We dive into the new, reimagined Hamilton! Discover the untold stories and truths behind the legendary figure through a powerful hip-hop lens. Tune in for insightful discussions and revolutionary perspectives!  Lorre Fisher is a Jamaican-born NY resident. She is an aspiring creative and community builde...

Dive into laughter as host Marina Franklin talks with Keisha "TK" Dutes and Kimberly Clark ! From game show antics to serious social talks, this episode brings both heart and humor.   Keisha "TK" Dutes is a multidisciplinary creative, audio veteran, and community builder. She is the founder of Philo's Future Media, where she helps producers bring stories to life with intention and authenticity, an...

On this Friends Like Us, I talk with both Erica Switzer and Nnenna Freelon about the improvisation of grief. Experience the powerful stories behind Nnenna Freelon's album "Beneath The Skin" and her upcoming book "Beneath The Skin Of Sorrow." Pre-order the book now and get the album today! Don't miss out on these soulful insights into art and grief.  Nnenna Freelon is a celebrated jazz vocalist, co...

This Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin talks with Hollie Harper and Chanel Ali about Chanel's new solo show 'Relative Stranger'! They dive deep into her story of triumph over adversity. Tune into today's podcast to hear her inspiring journey and get your tickets to see the show! You know Chanel Ali from Netflix's Dash and Lily or her time on MTV's Girl Code. Originally from Philly, her storyte...

We worked our tails off!" This Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin is unpacking the power of black women in shaping democracy and communities with Mia Jackson & Dr. Christina Greer on. It's not just a conversation—it's a movement.  Dr. Christina Greer is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Fordham University, Lincoln Center (Manhattan) campus. Her research and teaching focus on Americ...

Host Marina Franklin dives into a world of comedy, politics, and personal experiences with comedians Subhah Agarwal and Kaneez Surka. Get insights on egg freezing, political ebbs, Kaneez Surka's new comedy special on youtube and more.  Kaneez Surka - Check out her new special on YouTube: I Found My People. Kaneez has produced and performed in Netflix Special, 'Ladies Up', Netflix's 'Comedy Premium...

Dive into a fun thought-provoking discussions on race, gender, and the evolving comedy scene with the latest episode of Friends Like Us. Join Marina Franklin, Vanessa Fraction, and Pete Dominick for laughs and insights! Pete Dominick -For almost 12 years, Pete was the host of a daily three-hour live radio show on SIRIUSXM, "Stand Up with Pete Dominick". The show welcomed 3-4 expert guests on a bro...

Host Marina Franklin has an insightful conversation with Professor Tracie Canada and Ashima Franklin on the experiences of black college football players and their moms. Listen to our latest episode to understand the untold stories behind the sport.  Tracie Canada: Tracie Canada is the Andrew W. Mellon Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology at Duke University. She is the author of Tackling t...

Curious about what every woman needs to know before making health decisions? Check out your host, Marina Franklin's discussion with Dr. Kameelah Phillips on her book "The Empowered Hysterectomy" and Nonye Brown-West as we explore comprehensive health advocacy on Friends Like Us!  Dr. Kameelah Phillips: is a Board-Certified OB-Gyn with years of experience in Women's Health and patient advocacy. In...

This week: From comedy to the world of dating apps—join your amazing host Marina Franklin and comedian Akeem Woods on 'Friends Like Us' as they discuss the ins and outs of Grindr and more! It's a fun one!  Akeem Woods is the funny little brother you always (never) wanted — his comedy style will have you on the edge of your seat reeling from laughter! No topic is safe from discussion, whether it be...

On this Friends Like Us... Ever wondered about the impact of AI on media or the hidden history of our college institutions?  Listen to my conversation with Kenice Mobley and Kimberly Clark, as we tackle topics and give our guests their flowers!   Give it a listen and spread the word!   Kimberly Clark - Originally from Syracuse, NY. She's been seen on Netflix's Tiffany Haddish presents: They Ready,...

On this Friends Like Us, Marina Franklin talks with Hollie Harper and Von Decarlo about empowering young girls through stand-up comedy.  They take a deep dive into how humor can be a tool for confidence and self-expression.  Von Decarlo is a New York-bred stand-up comedian, producer, writer, and actress who has appeared in worldwide ad campaigns and national commercials for Disney, GNC, Match, and...

On this Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin chats with talented comedians Chanel Ali and Brandon Collins! They talk about comedy, the Drunk Black History tour, and the significance of Juneteenth. Tune in for a dose of humor and education! Brandon Collins is a versatile screenwriter, comedian and podcaster who has performed at the SXSW and New York Comedy Festival, and has had appearances in vari...

Ready to break through mental barriers? Tune into our latest episode with Courtney A. Seard as we dive into mindset shifts, empowerment, and beating the odds! Featuring funny friend Nonye Brown-West. Courtney A. Seard : With over 20 years of experience in the most innovative mind sciences and a firsthand story of resilience after a near-fatal accident, Courtney has worked with the world's leading...

This Friends Like Us, Host Marina Franklin and Vanessa Fraction talk with Damon Young, Author of his new book: That's How They Get You" . It sparks a thoughtful conversation on teeth, black comedy, and the power of humor. Pittsburgh writer DAMON YOUNG's debut memoir, What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Blacker: A Memoir in Essays (Ecco), won the Thurber Prize for American Humor. A founder of the cultu...