The Table Is Ours

The Table Is Ours season two comes to a close with peak style and grace. The one and only singer, songwriter and award-winning actress Janelle Monáe pulls up a throne to the table. Her electric energy and indescribable poise lights up the room as she discusses the music and artists that influenced her career, and the family ties that keep her grounded. She also shares an intimate dream she had about the next generation of artists she’s influenced, and how she continues to innovate on her style and voice to this day. Finally, she explains the power of Afrofuturism, how it informs Black culture, and why it’s important to her identity and her music. Plus, we get a first look into her new collection of short stories titled “The Memory Librarian,” an anthology based on her stellar album Dirty Computer. Come ready with champagne in your chalice because this episode we toast to the future of Black culture. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor Martell: Blue Swift and Acast Creative.

The Table Is Ours takes a quick look back this week as we remember some of the great conversations from season one. We’ll be back next week with the highly anticipated season two finale. Until then enjoy this oldie but goodie. Music royalty Questlove pulled up a seat this week, and we’re still ruminating on all the gems he dropped! We chatted about growing up in Philly, co-founding The Roots and how he finds balance between conscious music and commercial success. Plus we talked about his epic directorial debut, Summer of Soul. From Sundance Film Festival awards to multiple Grammys, it seems like everything Questlove touches turns to platinum. Hus, that's short for hustlers!

This episode, we’re talking all about healthcare equity in the Black community with psychiatrist and healthcare activist Dr. Kali Cyrus. She shares some of the economic and physical obstacles she’s witnessed keeping Black communities from proper healthcare, discusses how she advocates for  her patients to ensure they feel heard and receive the care they need, and how people can use social media and online resources to impact policies and make real change. Additionally, brothers Somto (MD) and Ted (MBA candidate) Obi swing by to talk about their non-profit organization Melanin Doc and how their online platform is revolutionizing how Black communities get care. Tune in because in this episode walk-ins are welcome.

This week, image architect and fashion designer, Law Roach pulls up a seat to The Table Is Ours to talk about his self-made journey into fashion. Law builds a safe space with Kirby and Amira and shares his honest feelings about the fashion industry and the strides Hollywood has yet to make when it comes to inclusion and equity. He reflects on his upbringing, the style confidence his family showed him at an early age, and the personal swag he attributes to his hometown of Chicago. Law also has a heartfelt moment when speaking about the growth he and Emmy winning actress Zendaya have had as they build their careers together. Still want more? Don’t miss out when Law gives his fashion tips on how all of us can elevate our closets. Get dressed to impress cuz we’re stuntin’ this episode!

Being a Black woman in entertainment is not easy. This week’s guest, E! News anchor and Nightly Pop host Nina Parker knows that better than most. Nina joins hosts Kirby and Amira to talk about working her way through the industry and all the obstacles along the way. Nina speaks candidly about her experience with major news networks in New York City and the lack of representation in front of and behind the scenes. She also talks about her switch to entertainment news and TV hosting, and how she found her niche. Now with poise, confidence and a self-titled fashion line, Nina Parker has made a name for herself with so much more to come. Get informed because this episode we are spilling tea and breaking news.

America’s Drag Superstar comes to The Table Is Ours purse first this episode with radiant energy Bob talks about being surrounded by queer fabulousness their whole life having grown up in the drag scene and what it really takes to break into the profession. They also reminisce on the moment they knew they made it in the industry and how it felt to share the stage with other truly iconic queens. And, they speak unapologetically about love and relationships and how they will never let anyone dictate how they choose to move in the world. Bring popcorn because the kiki is real this episode.

Esteemed entertainer and youth pastor Kel Mitchell pulls up a seat to the Table Is Ours with motivational energy this episode and Kirby and Amira are here for it all. Kel talks about his groundbreaking opportunity with Nickelodeon as a young Black kid and the creative license he was honored to have in the room. He shares his struggles navigating teen fame and learning how to balance always being “on” even when the cameras were off. Plus, Kel shares the transformative experience that led him to his spiritual practice and how he helps others find clarity, confidence and positivity in their lives. In his new book, “Blessed Mode” Kel blends his career in entertainment with his spiritual work, offering practical steps to becoming your best self. You don’t want to miss these moving moments. So ready yet? Get set, cause this episode is All That! *Note: This episode features descriptions of a suicidal nature. Please practice self-care before listening and If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org

The Table Is Ours pivots from its regularly scheduled programming to bring you a very special episode on all things Janet Jackson. In honor of the two-part Janet Jackson documentary series out on A&E and Lifetime, hosts Kirby and Amira sit down with Rolling Stone pop culture and music journalist, Brittany Spanos. The experienced staff writer and resident Janet expert shares her personal connection to Janet Jackson’s groundbreaking career and how Janet shaped Black culture and pop throughout the decades. Brittany also speaks to the harsh treatment of Black women in the media and the impact it had on Janet and her career. Although Janet is a private person, Brittany gives her opinion on why having Janet’s story told in her own words is a pivotal moment for our time. Make sure you are tuning in because Jan Fam - this episode is All For You!