The Check-In with Black Menswear

REVOLT
  • 4.8 (18)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

On The Check-In we provide proof against negative stereotypes by discussing engaging topics that uplift our community through interviews of inspiring individuals with stories of rags to riches, defeat to victory and just down-right interesting stuff you’ll want to hear!

  1. 17H AGO

    S6 Ep12: Marcel Spears On 8 Seasons Of The Neighborhood, Fatherhood, and Life After Sitcom Success

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with actor Marcel Spears for a thoughtful conversation about longevity, growth, and what comes next after eight successful seasons on The Neighborhood.Marcel reflects on the journey from his early days in New Orleans to becoming a series regular on one of television’s most consistent sitcoms. He opens up about the lessons he’s learned over nearly a decade on the show, the mentors who helped guide him, and how fatherhood has shifted his perspective on life and success. Together they dive into: What it’s really like to work on a hit sitcom for eight seasons How Marcel grew as an actor and person during the show The impact of mentorship from Cedric the Entertainer Why strong Black family representation on TV matters How becoming a father reshaped his priorities Navigating Hollywood when the next opportunity isn’t guaranteed Learning to trust God and the process during career transitions If you’ve ever wondered what happens after success in Hollywood, Marcel’s story shows how growth, humility, and faith can guide the next chapter.📌 Share this with someone chasing their dreams in entertainment or beyond.👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people.Follow Marcel Spears:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrmarcelspearsFollow Black Menswear:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: https://x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: https://facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: https://blackmenswear.com#MarcelSpears #TheNeighborhood #BlackMenswear #SitcomActors #Hollywood #BlackStories #Fatherhood #BuiltDifferent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    50 min

  2. MAR 25

    S6 Ep11: Mike Merrill On Acting, Vulnerability, Love, and Not Giving Up

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with actor, entertainer, and Detroit native Mike Merrill for a deeply honest conversation about perseverance, vulnerability, purpose, and what it really means to keep going when life gets heavy. Mike opens up about the quote that guides him now — “lead with love and dim your light for no one” — and shares how years of trying to be accepted taught him the cost of shrinking himself. From navigating Hollywood, learning to embrace his range as an actor, and processing painful roles, to speaking candidly about recent personal struggles, Mike offers a raw and powerful reminder that strength is not the absence of emotion. Together they dive into: Why Mike stopped dimming his light just to make other people comfortable How growing up shaped the way he learned to move through the world The truth about acting, discipline, and building a character from real life What certain roles unlocked for him emotionally Why “what’s for me won’t pass me” keeps him grounded through rejection The mental and spiritual weight of pursuing a dream in Hollywood What love, support, and brotherhood mean to him as a Black man Why vulnerability is necessary, not weakness How finding your tribe can keep you going when life gets hard If you’ve been feeling discouraged, questioning your path, or trying to hold it all together in silence, this episode is a reminder that you are still worthy — even in the middle of the struggle. 📌 Share this with someone who needs the reminder to keep going and not dim their light.👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people. Follow Mike Merrill: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_mikemerrill_ Follow Black Menswear: Instagram: instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: blackmenswear.com #MikeMerrill #BlackMenswear #Vulnerability #BlackMen #ActingJourney #Brotherhood #Love #Purpose #BuiltDifferent #Hollywood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    54 min

  3. MAR 11

    S6 Ep10: Sir John On Beyoncé, Fashion, Beauty, and Finding the Courage to Bet on Yourself

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with creative visionary, global beauty leader, and industry trailblazer Sir John for an honest conversation about courage, reinvention, identity, and what it really takes to build a legacy in spaces that were never designed for you.Sir John reflects on the quote that grounds him — “A lull will teach you how to win if you’re humble enough to learn from it” — and shares how setbacks, uncertainty, and starting over became part of the foundation for the life he built. From getting fired at MAC to doing makeup in a strip club in Queens, from being sent to Milan with money raised by the women around him to building career-defining relationships with icons like Naomi Campbell and Beyoncé, this conversation is a masterclass in trusting your instincts and refusing to shrink.Together they dive into: How Sir John’s journey from Buffalo to Harlem shaped his vision and voice Why learning from the “lulls” matters just as much as celebrating the wins The story behind how women at the strip club helped fund his trip to Milan What it felt like to work with Naomi Campbell and later Beyoncé Why knowing your value changes how you negotiate, lead, and create The difference between translating and assimilating in professional spaces How Black creatives can advocate for themselves without shrinking Why community, courage, and clarity are essential for longevity What Sir John is building now beyond makeup and beauty trends If you’ve ever felt called to something bigger, questioned your path, or needed a reminder that your story doesn’t have to look traditional to be powerful, this episode is proof that alignment, resilience, and self-belief can take you further than approval ever will. 📌 Share this with someone who needs the reminder to trust their instincts and keep going. 👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people. Follow Sir John:Instagram: instagram.com/sirjohnFollow Black Menswear:Instagram: instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: blackmenswear.com #SirJohn #BlackMenswear #Beyonce #BeautyIndustry #CreativeLeadership #Authenticity #BuiltDifferent #BlackCreatives #KnowYourWorth #Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    45 min

  4. MAR 4

    S6 Ep 9: Nina Parker On Rejection Being God’s Protection and Building Success Without Losing Yourself

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with Emmy-nominated host, fashion entrepreneur, and cultural voice Nina Parker for an honest conversation about authenticity, resilience, and building a career that lasts—on your terms. Nina reflects on the quote she returns to again and again—“rejection is God’s way of protection”—and shares how it’s helped her navigate the yeses and nos of LA, the entertainment industry, and entrepreneurship. From taking the leap to move to Los Angeles with no job, to finding her lane in TV, to launching a fashion brand rooted in representation, Nina breaks down what it really means to bet on yourself and stay grounded through the highs and lows. Together they dive into: Why “rejection is God’s protection” still guides her in career, relationships, and purpose What it took to leave comfort behind and move to LA with only a plan and a prayer How being authentic used to be “frowned upon” and what’s changed in today’s media landscape The difference between being yourself and learning how to “translate” without shrinking How getting fired and contracts ending became redirection, not defeat Why she created Nina Parker Collection and the gap it was built to solve Defining success as peace—and protecting your joy while you build If you’ve been feeling stuck, discouraged by rejection, or unsure whether your path is still valid because it doesn’t look linear, this episode is your reminder that doors closing can be divine protection—and your next chapter may be bigger than what you planned. 📌 Share this with someone who needs the reminder that purpose can grow out of disappointment. 👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people. Follow Nina Parker: Instagram: instagram.com/theninaparker Follow Black Menswear: Instagram: instagram.com/blackmenswear X / Twitter: x.com/blackmenswear Facebook: facebook.com/BlackMenswear Website: blackmenswear.com #NinaParker #BlackMenswear #TheCheckIn #Authenticity #Faith #Resilience #Entrepreneurship #CareerJourney #BuiltDifferent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min

  5. FEB 25

    S6 Ep8: Karl Kani on Building a Fashion Legacy That Changed Hip Hop Style Forever

    What does it take to build a brand that lasts for decades? Fashion icon Karl Kani shares the real story behind becoming known as the Godfather of Streetwear and how authenticity, culture, and consistency built a global movement.In conversation with host NeAndre Broussard, founder and CEO of Black Menswear, Karl reflects on defining moments that shaped his career — from early hustle in Brooklyn to seeing his designs worn by some of hip-hop’s biggest legends.Highlights from the episode include: The moment Karl realized fashion could change his life Creating opportunity when none existed for Black designers Hip-hop marketing before social media The importance of relationships in fashion and business Lessons learned from decades in the industry Advice for the next generation of designers and entrepreneurs This episode is a blueprint for creatives looking to turn vision into legacy.👍🏾 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that inspire growth and community.Stay connected with Karl Kani:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlkaniFollow Black Menswear:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: https://x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: https://blackmenswear.com#KarlKani #BlackMenswear #StreetwearLegend #FashionEntrepreneur #HipHopFashion #LegacyBuilding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min

  6. FEB 18

    S6 Ep7: Joseph Solomon on Healing Through Music, Fatherhood, Faith Shifts & Finding Joy Again

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with singer, songwriter, and storyteller Joseph Solomon for a deeply honest conversation about creativity, identity, and what it means to rebuild your life in real time.Known for his soulful acoustic sound and vulnerable storytelling, Joseph opens up about the personal philosophy that shaped his artistry: a song wasn’t finished unless it moved him to tears. From viral pandemic-era covers to crafting deeply personal original music, he shares how pain, growth, and self-reflection became the foundation of his creative process.Together, they unpack: “Pain is inevitable, misery is optional” — the mindset that reshaped his outlook on life Navigating faith reconstruction and redefining identity in public Why vulnerability built his audience — and the boundaries he’s learned to keep The pandemic pivot that transformed his music career overnight Writing songs that heal both the artist and the listener Battling depression, rediscovering joy, and building sustainable emotional rhythms Fatherhood, fear, and how becoming a dad changed his empathy and purpose The difference between happiness and joy — and how daily rituals restore both Creating music as a net positive for the world, even in difficult seasons Why R&B never lost its soul — it simply evolved Joseph also shares insight into his upcoming project Terracotta, recorded with live musicians and analog warmth to capture the humanity often missing in modern music production.If you’ve ever wrestled with purpose, creativity, faith, or personal transformation, this conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t happen all at once — it happens through honest moments and small daily choices.📌 Share this with someone navigating change, healing, or rediscovering who they are becoming.👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people.Stay connected with Joseph Solomon:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatisjoedoingFollow Black Menswear:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: https://x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: https://blackmenswear.com#JosephSolomon #BlackMenswear #MusicAndHealing #FatherhoodJourney #MentalHealthConversations #RnBSoul #CreativeProcess #BlackMenHealing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    53 min

  7. FEB 11

    S6 Ep6: Q Parker on 30 Years of R&B, 112’s Legacy, Timeless Hits & The Evolution of Romance

    In this episode, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with Grammy-winning vocalist and R&B icon Q Parker for a wide-ranging conversation on longevity, artistry, fatherhood, and keeping romance alive in modern music.From early rehearsals in Atlanta to global tours with 112, Q reflects on what it really took to survive the competitive ’90s R&B era, how hits like “Cupid,” “Peaches & Cream,” and “Only You” were born from real life, and why authenticity is the secret behind music that lasts decades.Throughout the episode, Q opens up about: The two quotes that guide his health, mindset, and career Day-one grind, rehearsals, and preparing for opportunity First concerts, backstage nerves, and trusting the reps His role inside 112 and shaping their signature sound Why authenticity makes songs timeless Working with legendary producers while staying self-contained Blending hip-hop energy with church-rooted R&B His new project Evolution of Romance and restoring love songs to radio Becoming a father and proud grandfather focused on legacy Touring overseas and learning music’s global power Atlanta’s impact on shaping generations of artists His advice to young musicians chasing longevity If you love classic R&B, artist journeys, and conversations about purpose, discipline, and staying true to your lane, this episode is required listening.📌 Share this with someone who grew up on ’90s R&B — and anyone chasing a career built to last.👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations that pour back into our people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min

  8. FEB 4

    S6 Ep5: Super Bowl Champion TJ Ward on NFL Mindset, Retirement, Fatherhood & Being Built Different

    In this episode of The Check-In with Black Menswear, host NeAndre Broussard sits down with Super Bowl champion and former NFL star TJ Ward for a powerful conversation about confidence, leadership, life after football, and the realities players face behind the scenes.TJ reflects on his first NFL game, adjusting to the speed of the league, and the mental toughness required to survive at the highest level. He walks through what it felt like watching confetti fall after winning the Super Bowl, celebrating with family, and carrying the responsibility of being part of one of the most dominant defenses in league history.In this episode, they discuss:• The quote that shaped his work ethic • Entering the NFL and making an impact immediately • Playing with confidence at the highest level • What Super Bowl night really feels like • Life inside locker rooms and elite defenses • The emotional toll of losing seasons • Retirement and the identity shift athletes face • Fatherhood and raising the next generation • Building community with former teammates • Transitioning into sports media and podcasting • His “Dear Black Man” message to viewersThis episode is a must-watch for athletes, parents, and anyone navigating big life transitions while staying disciplined, grounded, and purpose-driven.👍🏾 Like, ✍🏾 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more conversations from Black Menswear highlighting Black excellence, leadership, and resilience.Stay connected with TJ Ward: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossward43Stay connected with Black Menswear: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmenswearX / Twitter: https://x.com/blackmenswearFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackMenswearWebsite: https://blackmenswear.com#TJWard #BlackMenswear #SuperBowlChampion #NFLPodcast #FootballLife #RetirementAfterSports #Fatherhood #BuiltDifferent #AthleteMindset #BlackMen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    49 min
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4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

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On The Check-In we provide proof against negative stereotypes by discussing engaging topics that uplift our community through interviews of inspiring individuals with stories of rags to riches, defeat to victory and just down-right interesting stuff you’ll want to hear!

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