Your Opinion Doesn’t Matter Podcast

YODM

Welcome to YODM Podcast, your gateway to engaging conversations and thought-provoking debates. With every episode, we bring you a fresh perspective on a wide range of intriguing topics. Join our panel of passionate debaters as we explore the issues that matter most to you. From relationships and societal dilemmas to personal growth and pop culture, our discussions are designed to inspire curiosity, spark dialogue, and encourage you to see the world from different angles. Tune in for entertaining and enlightening conversations that leave you pondering, questioning, and wanting more. Join the YODM community, share your thoughts, and let the debates begin!

  1. OCT 22

    Strength To Survive

    Send us a text A soft knot in the shower. A mammogram full of white clusters. A phone call that split life in two. Sherry takes us inside a harrowing, courageous fight with stage three triple-negative breast cancer—and everything that followed: months of chemo, a bilateral mastectomy, radiation, sudden heart failure, and a stroke. What begins as a warning about small, easy-to-ignore signals becomes a masterclass in self-advocacy, medical literacy, and the kind of support that actually helps. We talk plainly about what chemo feels like—cold caps, ports, taste vanishing, and the slow arithmetic of calories when food turns to dust. Sherry explains why she chose to remove both breasts, how reconstruction unfolds over multiple surgeries, and why she cut alcohol, fried foods, and red meat to protect her heart and healing. Her cardiology team helped raise her ejection fraction from 15 percent to 50 percent, and she details the daily habits that made recovery real: water over everything, low-salt meals, short walks that became longer hills, and rest without guilt. This conversation also names what doesn’t get said enough. Triple-negative breast cancer disproportionately affects Black women, and delayed screening costs lives. We lay out practical, step-by-step guidance: schedule mammograms, request an ultrasound for dense breasts, check underarms and tissue after showers, track sudden weight changes, pay attention to balance and urination, and call your doctor when something feels off. For Black men, the message is just as urgent—stop avoiding the clinic, get baseline labs by your mid-30s, and follow through. Above all, this is a love letter to real support: the friends who show up without questions, the partners who carry the load, and the family who keep the light on. If this story moves you, share it with someone who needs courage today. Subscribe for more honest conversations about health and healing, and leave a review with the one screening you’ll book this week.

    1h 5m
  2. MAR 31

    Growing Beyond the Game: How Rickey Rivers Shaped NYC Basketball Culture

    Send us a text Rickey Rivers' basketball journey weaves through the hallways of Erasmus Hall High School to pioneering youth basketball tournaments that transformed NYC's basketball culture. This candid conversation reveals the making of a Brooklyn basketball legend whose impact extends far beyond the scoreboard. At the heart of Rivers' story is the powerful influence of coach Gil Reynolds, whose tough-love approach included unforgettable moments like slapping players across the face during timeouts and demanding "elbows high" basketball. These formative experiences shaped not only Rivers' game—where he averaged 30 points his senior year—but his understanding of discipline and excellence that would define his later work. Rivers shares the remarkable sacrifices he made as a young father while pursuing college basketball, commuting hours daily from Brooklyn to New Rochelle for Iona College while raising two children with his wife. Despite the challenges, Rivers transformed these experiences into fuel for his true calling: creating opportunities for young athletes through FunSport tournaments. The conversation travels through the evolution of Rivers' programs from middle school tournaments at Madison Square Garden to high school showcases featuring future NBA stars like Kemba Walker. His innovative approach—giving players personalized posters that many still treasure decades later—shows how small gestures can leave lasting impressions on young lives. Today, as a financial literacy teacher and high school coach, Rivers continues his impact while celebrating his greatest achievement: raising two successful daughters while maintaining a 33-year marriage. His story reminds us that basketball excellence isn't just measured in points scored, but in lives touched and communities strengthened. Ready to debate basketball legends or life lessons? Grab your copy of the Your Opinion Doesn't Matter game at www.yodm.com and see if you can match wits with your family and friends just like Rivers does with his accomplished daughters.

    51 min
  3. Friends, Mortality, and Figuring It All Out

    MAR 24

    Friends, Mortality, and Figuring It All Out

    Send us a text Two old friends reconnect after the New Year, diving into the complex realities of midlife with refreshing honesty and occasional humor. Black Jesus and Mr. Lamont navigate topics that many avoid but everyone eventually confronts—mortality, purposeful living, and the physical realities of aging. When Lamont shares his frustration with others' defeatist attitudes about mortality, it sparks a thoughtful exchange about different approaches to life's inevitable conclusion. Rather than dwelling on what can't be controlled, Lamont focuses on building something meaningful that will outlast him. Black Jesus counters with practical wisdom about preparing for the future while still embracing the present. The conversation shifts to relationships as Lamont discusses his upcoming wedding and experience with couples counseling. Drawing from 13 years of marriage, Black Jesus offers invaluable insights about the transformation that occurs after saying "I do"—describing it as crossing "over to a more spiritual realm" where independence gives way to true partnership. His revelation that finances—not infidelity—represent the leading cause of divorce provides a sobering reminder of marriage's practical dimensions. Perhaps most compelling is their candid discussion about alcohol. Lamont shares his three years of sobriety, calculating how drinking robbed him of productivity and memories. Black Jesus admits to still enjoying occasional drinks while acknowledging the increasingly difficult recoveries that come with age. Their unfiltered conversation about "liquor shits" and forgotten nights demonstrates the uncomfortable physical realities of heavy drinking that often go undiscussed. The episode concludes with powerful words about taking chances: "You can't lose if you don't try" and "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." Join these authentic voices as they navigate life's complexities with wisdom earned through decades of friendship and experience.

    48 min
  4. Financial Wisdom Unveiled: Emile's Insights on Wealth Building

    FEB 24

    Financial Wisdom Unveiled: Emile's Insights on Wealth Building

    Send us a text Embrace the journey from sunshine to Wall Street insights with us as we welcome Emile back on the podcast! Fresh from a family reunion in the Bahamas and now braving New York's winter chill, Emile opens up about the experiences that have shaped his positive outlook on life. In this episode, we promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of financial empowerment through Emile's expert lens as an Assistant Vice President of Global Wealth Management at GoBullion International. He takes us through the fascinating world of precious metals investment and shares actionable tips for overcoming the skepticism often associated with stock market investments. Do you find the stock market intimidating or perhaps even a bit of a scam? We tackle these misconceptions head-on by contrasting intangible stocks with the very real potential for fraud in the real estate world. By likening investment journeys to long-term relationships, we stress the importance of research and education. With resources as accessible as YouTube and the possibility of starting small with $500, we urge everyone to consider investing in ETFs and index funds as a viable path to a secure retirement. This discussion extends into the cultural and educational barriers within the Black community, emphasizing how financial literacy can break down these walls and lead to true empowerment and wealth building. Crypto enthusiasts and lifelong learners, this one's for you! Emile draws parallels between his personal entry into finance and iconic films like Wall Street. We explore the allure and risks of cryptocurrency, demystifying its decentralized nature while acknowledging its potential pitfalls. The episode crescendos with a powerful call to embrace learning with intent, illustrated by Emile's own encounters with giants like billionaire Robert Smith. This isn't just about amassing wealth—it's about enriching your mind and investing in knowledge that fuels personal and professional growth. Join us for this enlightening journey and walk away feeling equipped and inspired to take control of your financial future.

    1h 2m
  5. Healing Family Bonds: Childhood Trauma, Sportsmanship Lessons, and Navigating Divergent Friendships

    JAN 22

    Healing Family Bonds: Childhood Trauma, Sportsmanship Lessons, and Navigating Divergent Friendships

    Send us a text Can a single conversation redefine your understanding of family? We unravel this question by diving into personal stories and complex family dynamics that shape our lives. From childhood trauma to sibling relationships, we uncover how past experiences can influence present interactions. Discover the importance of communication and accountability in healing these old wounds and learn how to foster stronger familial bonds, as we challenge traditional notions of what it means to be family. Have you ever wondered how sports can teach life-changing lessons? We take a closer look at youth sports ethics and coaching, exploring how leadership and sportsmanship can impact young athletes beyond the game. With stories from the court, we highlight the delicate balance between immediate performance and long-term potential. Join us as we share teachable moments that prioritize teamwork over personal achievement and explore the role of parents and coaches in guiding children toward a more holistic understanding of success. Friendships and personal growth often go hand in hand, but what happens when paths diverge? Reflecting on long-term relationships, we examine how time and evolving interests can affect bonds. Through candid discussions, we delve into the concept of growing apart and the significance of addressing unresolved issues. By sharing personal experiences, we stress the critical role of communication and managing expectations, not just in friendships but in all relationships, to maintain harmony and personal peace. Go support the Your Opinion Doesn't Matter game @ www.yodm.com

    1h 11m
  6. Love's Evolution: Holiday Reflections, Relationship Trials, and Embracing Authentic Connections

    JAN 2

    Love's Evolution: Holiday Reflections, Relationship Trials, and Embracing Authentic Connections

    Send us a text What happens when love evolves and relationships are put to the test during the festive season? This episode of "Your Opinion Doesn't Matter" takes a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of family dynamics and personal connections as we share personal stories that resonate with listeners facing similar struggles. From Sherri-Berry's poignant reflections on recent family losses to Mr. Lamont's inspiring visit to an assisted living facility, we share the bittersweet moments of the holidays, emphasizing the importance of community support and gratitude in times of sorrow. Join us as we uncover the complexities of love—how it can sometimes blind us to imbalances in relationships and how self-love acts as a compass guiding us toward healthier connections. Explore the delicate balance of maintaining attraction and communication in long-term partnerships, and the ever-important role of open dialogue. We discuss the impact of societal expectations and the dangers of superficial connections, urging you to cherish genuine affection and value those who truly care. As we brace for a new year, this episode leaves no stone unturned in discussing the importance of authenticity in relationships and the pitfalls of financial dependency and superficial standards. We celebrate the power of teamwork in achieving shared health goals and underscore the importance of mutual support. With a hopeful gaze towards 2025, we express gratitude for the lessons learned and the community that binds us, inviting you to reflect on the blessings of health, strength, and love as we venture into a promising future together.

    58 min
  7. Pencils and Purpose: Friendship, Mentorship, and Embracing Health Challenges

    12/16/2024

    Pencils and Purpose: Friendship, Mentorship, and Embracing Health Challenges

    Send us a text What if a simple pencil could forge a lifelong friendship and inspire a community? Join us as we reminisce about our childhood days and the unique bond that grew between us, Mr. Lamont and Lem, starting from a shared pencil in third grade. We discuss how this friendship evolved as we became fathers and mentors through our non-profit, Working Wonder. The power of positive mentorship and dedication is central to our story, highlighting the significant impact we can have on young lives and the importance of stepping up as role models in our community. Reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of losing over ten loved ones in a single year, we confront the harsh realities of grief and the urgency of prioritizing health. Our personal anecdotes bring to light the unexpected nature of loss and the critical importance of regular health check-ups. By sharing how we've drawn strength from our families, we hope to inspire listeners to embrace their health journeys and encourage open dialogues about their fears and medical evaluations. With humor and honesty, we explore the complexities of relationships, legal challenges, and the role of finances in personal dynamics. From the intricacies of male-female friendships to the impact of sudden wealth on relationships, our discussions weave through themes of loyalty, empowerment, and communication. We touch on the legal system's racial biases and the effects of media portrayal, always stressing the importance of due process. Wrapping up with health and wellness advice, we emphasize the value of mental, physical, and emotional well-being, wishing everyone peace and blessings for the year ahead.

    1h 3m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to YODM Podcast, your gateway to engaging conversations and thought-provoking debates. With every episode, we bring you a fresh perspective on a wide range of intriguing topics. Join our panel of passionate debaters as we explore the issues that matter most to you. From relationships and societal dilemmas to personal growth and pop culture, our discussions are designed to inspire curiosity, spark dialogue, and encourage you to see the world from different angles. Tune in for entertaining and enlightening conversations that leave you pondering, questioning, and wanting more. Join the YODM community, share your thoughts, and let the debates begin!