Lupe Fiasco - Apple Podcasts

Unglossy

Unglossy

Bun B, Tom Frank, Jeffrey Sledge

6D AGO

RE-RELEASE: Marcus Samuelsson

Originally released April 18, 2024 "I recently stumbled across this podcast and specifically the episode with Marcus Samuelsson. So tasty. I love how he explains cooking through sound." - Leon G. Witness culture and the unexpected converge, revealing the medley of tastes, sounds and experiences that influence the brand that is—Marcus Samuelsson. From a young age, Marcus aspired to be great by recognizing greatness in others. His path to becoming a decorated chef, restaurateur and philanthropist who's accolades include a 2023 Emmy Award (that makes two cameos in this podcast), was powered by creative and cultural experiences from his travels around the world. With restaurants spanning the US, Canada, Bahamas and his native Ethiopia, this eight-time James Beard Foundation award winner has inspired with his lyrical dishes from kitchens located in neighborhoods one might not expect to find them. Journey with us as Marcus dives into the why and how behind his ability to bring people and communities together while blurring the lines between music and cuisine until their cultural significance feels almost one and the same. "Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Studios and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and learn more at https://www.wearemerrickstudios.com/unglossy-pod Send us a text Support the show

59 min
12/31/2025

RE-RELEASE: Keenan Scott II

Originally released March 21, 2025 In this episode of Unglossy, Tom and Jeffrey sit down with Keenan Scott II, a prolific playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer from Queens, New York. Keenan delves into his artistic journey, beginning with his early passion for visual arts and comic books, and transitioning into poetry and performance as he navigated his formative years in Maryland. His experiences at open mic nights in D.C. were pivotal, shaping his creative expression and laying the groundwork for his future in theater. Keenan also discusses the genesis of his renowned play, "Thoughts of a Colored Man," which started as college monologues aimed at authentically representing Black experiences absent from mainstream theater. The conversation further explores the complexities and challenges of bringing a play to Broadway. Keenan sheds light on the logistical and financial hurdles, including navigating the influential theater families that control Broadway venues. Despite these challenges and the abrupt end to his play's run due to COVID-19, Keenan's work continues to make a significant impact. Looking ahead, he shares his excitement for future projects through his company, Project Toy Entertainment, aiming to fuse various artistic mediums and empower new creative voices. His advice to emerging artists—to believe in themselves and embrace perseverance—is a testament to his journey and dedication to the arts. "Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/ Send us a text Support the show

58 min
12/18/2025

Owen Hanson (The Cocaine Quarterback): Fame, Fallout & the Fight Back

This might be the wildest story we’ve ever told on Unglossy — and that’s saying something. This week, Bun B, Jeffrey Sledge, and Tom Frank sit down with Owen Hanson, better known as The California Kid or The Cocaine Quarterback. Once a USC walk-on turned national champion, Owen’s life took a sharp left turn from the football field into international drug trafficking, cartel money, federal prison, and headlines that sound fictional until you realize they’re not. Fresh off the Amazon Prime docuseries Cocaine Quarterback, Owen breaks his silence on what really happened — from how the documentary came together, to what it got right (and what it couldn’t fully show), to how you rebuild an identity when your name becomes a cautionary tale. This isn’t a glamorized crime story. It’s a raw conversation about ambition, ego, consequences, survival, and second chances. We talk life inside prison, hustling legally and illegally, the mindset it takes to endure a decade behind bars, and how Owen turned a mop bucket, protein powder, and sheer will into a legitimate business on the outside. From USC glory to federal time… and from rock bottom to redemption — this episode is about what happens after everything falls apart. No polish. No excuses. Just the truth. This is Unglossy. Send us a text Support the show

59 min
02/12/2021

Poetry

The men discuss their favorite pizza delivery joints and debate which city is America’s best for ice cream. Tom asks Lupe & Royce for their thoughts on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2021 nominations. Lupe recaps his experience talking to Taimak from The Last Dragon. Author and poet Jovahna Marie, better known by her pen name J. M. Pozon, joins the show to discuss her creative process, the parallels between poetry and hip-hop, and to perform one of her more political works, “Castaways.” Tom shares what he’s learned about the origins of Valentine’s Day, and reveals who won the last shirt the first edition of official Lupe & Royce show merch. The dudes discuss strategies for strengthening the immune system and don’t forget that we have a birthday coming on next week’s show. This episode is sponsored in part by Better Help; Use discount code “lupeandroyce” for 10% off your first month: http://betterhelp.com/lupeandroyce If you love the show, make sure to subscribe, leave us a review and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. Email your questions to saywhatdotmedia@gmail.com. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media Production: https://www.saywhat.media/ It is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5’9” and Tom Frank. It’s produced by Tom Frank and Lauren Sloat, and recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings. Send us a text Support the show

1h 17m
04/01/2021

EMPATHY

The men discuss violence against the Asian community, the latest in the Derek Chauvin trial, and the need for more empathy to combat “America as usual.” Also in this episode, Lupe gives us the scoop on his April 15 virtual show honoring the 15th anniversary of Food & Liquor — a nod to the Food & Liquor tour that got shut down during COVID — and the April 12 NFT drop with Origin Protocol. Shout to DJ Double O and Dame Dash Studios! The dudes also check in on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame fan vote leaderboard, discuss the controversy surrounding Lil Nas X and the release of his music video for “Montero (Call Me Be Your Name)” and — finally — unpack how mental health is trivialized in “The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel.” If you love the show, make sure to subscribe, leave us a review and give us shout on social using #lupeandroyce. Email your questions to saywhatdotmedia@gmail.com OR leave us a voicemail at 707-276-6261. This episode is sponsored by FutureStream.tv & Lupe Fiasco Food & Liquor Live: Get your tickets to the April 15 virtual show at https://futurestream.tv/lupefiasco. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media Production: https://www.saywhat.media/ It is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5’9” and Tom Frank. It’s produced by Tom Frank and Lauren Sloat, and recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings. Send us a text Support the show

1h 35m
11/20/2020

Menagerie

Comedian and actor Tony Baker joins the show to share his take on violence in entertainment, fatherhood, the coronavirus vaccine, comedy during COVID, coach v. first class, and — yes — cruises. Royce gives an update on Heaven Studios. Tom plays show-and-tell with an award he won filming an AIDS documentary in Nigeria. Lupe recalls the day he won a Grammy but couldn’t accept the award in person, and he and Royce reminisce on past Grammy experiences and collaborations, and debate the decoupling of violence and hip-hop. Finally, Tony interviews Lupe and Royce about music and their careers, and Lupe gives a mini tour of his “menagerie of collectibles.” MERCH is here! Fresh tasty merch available now for a limited time from our partner Crooked Monkey — check it out at https://www.saywhat.media/shop. Love the show? Hit “subscribe,” leave us a review, and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media. The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

1h 26m
11/12/2020

Dream

Señior Lupe describes a crazy dream he had recently, and makes a prank call that Royce does not find amusing. Lupe suffers a back injury, and he and Royce discuss past forays in fashion. The fellas talk about election fraud claims and the pageantry of politics, and William Howell joins as the show’s second guest. William is the Sydney Stein Professor in American Politics at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, a professor in the Department of Political Science and the College, and the director of the Center for Effective Government. Shoutout to Claude “Scorpion” Jennings — our audio engineer extraordinaire — it’s his birth-week! Love the show? Hit “subscribe,” leave us a review, and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

48 min
11/26/2020

Sandwiches

Royce is out sick, but Tom & Lupe congratulate him for his “Best Rap Album” Grammy nomination, and Lupe shares some game theory on how Grammy nominations work, calling upon his experience as a 14-time nominee and governor of a board. Lupe & Tom discuss their Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they are thankful for this year. The fellas welcome musician, producer, and songwriter Kaelin Ellis to the show, and Lupe talks to the rising star on his path from sandwich maker to multi-platinum music producer, starting with playing drums in church with his grandparents to working with one of K-pop’s biggest supergroups and collaborating on the HOUSE EP with Lupe himself. The two discuss hip-hop’s roots in the church, the relationship between music and video games, J Dilla’s influence on Kaelin’s career, and how to make money with music. Lupe breaks down the art of rap from an anthropological & sociological standpoint, and Tom shares a special merch discount — and how to win a guest spot on an upcoming episode. Do you call it “filling,” “stuffing,” or “dressing?” Settle the score on social using #lupeandroyce! Love the show? Hit “subscribe,” leave us a review, and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

56 min
01/21/2021

Aquamistic

Lupe shouts-out Liquid Death, alludes to a forthcoming restock of his merch, and reveals his skull fixation. Royce sheds light on the hip-hop police and racial profiling while debating what racism means with Tom. Michael Ford joins the show to talk about Hip Hop Architecture Camp, a new collaboration with Herman Miller and the role rap can play in designing communities. Love the show? Hit “subscribe,” leave us a review, and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media Production: https://www.saywhat.media/ It is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5’9” and Tom Frank. It’s produced by Tom Frank and Lauren Sloat, and recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings. Send us a text Support the show

1h 41m
04/08/2021

DEMONS

Episode 30 dives deep on demons: The kind that accompany big success, appear on the big screen, and that come with pandemic fatigue. Also in this episode, the men discuss the best 90s sitcoms and give an update on Lu’s upcoming Food & Liquor Live show — including a way that Lupe & Royce Show listeners can win free tickets. Then, they share positive vibes for DMX and pay homage to his music and ability to translate hardcore style to mainstream success. Finally, the fellas respond to some fan questions. If you love the show, make sure to subscribe, leave us a review and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce. Email your questions to saywhatdotmedia@gmail.com OR leave us a voicemail at 707-276-6261. This episode is sponsored by FutureStream.tv & Lupe Fiasco Food & Liquor Live: Get your tickets to the April 15 virtual show at futurestream.tv/lupefiasco This episode is also sponsored by BetterHelp: Use discount code “lupeandroyce” for 10% off your first month: http://betterhelp.com/lupeandroyce. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media Production: https://www.saywhat.media/ It is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5’9” and Tom Frank. It’s produced by Tom Frank and Lauren Sloat, and recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings. Send us a text Support the show

1h 14m
10/08/2020

Nino

Lupe gets a sword, and confesses to something he stole in Detroit. They discuss “Black Panther” & Royce’s unusual approach to movie-watching. Royce recalls his faux pas the time he met Wesley Snipes & Leon Robinson. The conversation ends on a more serious note, reflecting on Jacob Blake and the state of policing in the U.S., with Lupe, Tom and Royce each offering a unique viewpoint. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media. The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

39 min
12/01/2025

Soufiane “Souf” Bernoukh: Humor, Hoops, and Holy Buckets

Tom Frank, Bun B, and Jeffrey Sledge sit down with Soufiane “Souf” Bernoukh — the mind behind Halal Wrist and one of the most original voices in sports entertainment today. Souf shares how a childhood full of jokes, a late start in basketball, and the hustle of Division III ball shaped his creative path. He unpacks the creation of his signature trick shot, the midnight hotel-shift videos that ignited his rise, and the Ramadan clip that went viral enough for Drake to reach out. The conversation dives deeper into identity: how Souf navigates stereotypes, represents Muslim culture on a global stage, and uses comedy and craft to build connection. He discusses the growth of the Halal Wrist brand, lessons from running (and pausing) his restaurant, and the launch of the Helal Wrist Foundation — a mission to build courts, uplift communities, and create opportunity worldwide. With laughs, honesty, and plenty of basketball analogies, this episode explores how faith, culture, creativity, and brand storytelling come together in one of today’s most unique creator journeys. Tap in — when the prayers go up, the buckets come down. This is Unglossy. "Unglossy" is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Bun B, Tom Frank and Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at https://wearemerrickstudios.com/unglossy-pod. Send us a text Support the show

48 min
12/13/2025

Trill in Real Time: Inside the Making of TrillStatik 5

This week on Unglossy, we get rare, front-row access to hip-hop happening in real time. Tom and Jeffrey go full fly-on-the-wall as Bun B and Statik Selektah build TrillStatik 5 from scratch—live, unannounced, and completely unscripted—during Art Basel weekend in Miami. From surprise guests walking straight off the street into the booth, to verses written, recorded, and sequenced on the spot, this episode pulls back the curtain on what creative chaos looks like when mastery meets momentum. Bun breaks down the pressure of rapping on every track, the communal energy of artists who simply love to rap, and why TrillStatik is about execution, not exploitation. You’ll hear stories involving Tony Sunshine, Termanology, Robb Banks, Bone Crusher, and a legendary Busta Rhymes phone call that turned into a masterclass in respect, legacy, and bars. No rollouts. No safety nets. Just craft, competition, and culture—captured as it happens. If you’ve ever wondered how real hip-hop gets made when the clock is ticking and the mic is hot, this one’s for you. This is Unglossy. "Unglossy" is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Bun B, Tom Frank and Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at https://wearemerrickstudios.com/unglossy-pod. Send us a text Support the show

1h 10m
10/15/2020

Vote

As Lupe puts it: This episode may be offensive to a range of people. Lupe and Royce discuss who they’re voting for in the upcoming election and what it means to be American. The fellas describe their experiences with COVID-19 testing, Lupe asks Tom to describe the taxonomy of white people, Royce explains what happened between him and Eminem stans, and they discuss the concept of “the sacred space” — and how social media has blurred the lines between public and private. The gentleman discuss their sophisticated relationships with golf, and not-so-sophisticated experience with brothels. Finally, Tom and Lupe congratulate Royce on the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation (www.ryanmontgomeryfoundation.org), which empowers underprivileged communities through advocacy, education and personal enrichment. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

1h 10m
10/08/2020

Music

Lupe & Royce school Tom with a little Music 101, educating him on the nuances between artists, musicians, lyricists, songwriters, and singers. Royce reveals who he considers to be the greatest hip-hop producer of all-time — and which up-and-comer may be next. The fellas discuss why remakes create great hip-hop records, and discuss the role of the back office in the record business. Finally, they unpack the meaning of “relevancy,” and the genres that began and influenced music in Chicago and Detroit. Is “Kick Push” a relevant record? Listen to learn Royce’s hot take … and the origin story behind it and some of the dudes’ other most popular songs. The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

55 min
03/21/2025

Keenan Scott II: Poetry, Passion, and Broadway Dreams

In this week's episode of Unglossy, Tom and Jeffrey sit down with Keenan Scott II, a prolific playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer from Queens, New York. Keenan delves into his artistic journey, beginning with his early passion for visual arts and comic books, and transitioning into poetry and performance as he navigated his formative years in Maryland. His experiences at open mic nights in D.C. were pivotal, shaping his creative expression and laying the groundwork for his future in theater. Keenan also discusses the genesis of his renowned play, "Thoughts of a Colored Man," which started as college monologues aimed at authentically representing Black experiences absent from mainstream theater. The conversation further explores the complexities and challenges of bringing a play to Broadway. Keenan sheds light on the logistical and financial hurdles, including navigating the influential theater families that control Broadway venues. Despite these challenges and the abrupt end to his play's run due to COVID-19, Keenan's work continues to make a significant impact. Looking ahead, he shares his excitement for future projects through his company, Project Toy Entertainment, aiming to fuse various artistic mediums and empower new creative voices. His advice to emerging artists—to believe in themselves and embrace perseverance—is a testament to his journey and dedication to the arts. "Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/ Send us a text Support the show

58 min
11/07/2025

Greg Street: Culture, Connection, and the Code of the South

Before algorithms and playlists decided what we liked, DJs like Greg Street were the algorithm — breaking artists, building cities, and defining what hip hop felt like. In this episode, Bun B, Jeffrey Sledge, and Tom Frank sit down with the legendary DJ and radio personality whose career runs through every chapter of Southern music history. From Mississippi to Houston, Dallas to Atlanta, Street unpacks how the South built its own infrastructure, why authenticity always wins, and how community still moves culture more than technology ever could. This one’s a blueprint in conversation form. "Unglossy with Bun B" is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Bun B, Tom Frank and Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at https://wearemerrickstudios.com/unglossy-pod. Send us a text Support the show

1h 16m
10/08/2020

Cruise

In episode two, the fellas debate who would be hip-hop’s best candidate for U.S. President; Lupe challenges Royce and Tom to a fanciness contest; and Royce educates Lupe on the Boblo Boat and Detroit cruise culture. Mark your calendars for the “Live from a Cruise Somewhere” podcast special, downloadable on a phone near you in 2022! The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

24 min
10/08/2020

Meat

In this episode, Lupe and Royce share their perspectives on drinking, explore why Royce never found his “signature drug,” discuss a must-visit city, talk about cars, and tell a “man massage story” that may or may not be podcast-appropriate. Grab your O’Doul’s and get ready to book your next basement haircut! The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com Send us a text Support the show

34 min
10/01/2020 · BONUS

Introducing The Lupe and Royce Show

Who thought it would be a good idea to give these two a show?! Introducing The Lupe & Royce Show: the first podcast from Lupe Fiasco (a rapper), Royce da 5’9” … also a rapper 😜and some white guy with two first names, Tom Frank. Send us a text Support the show

2 min

Lupe Fiasco on Apple