Pop Culture Debate Club with Ronald Young Jr.

Nicolas Cage vs. John Travolta Apr 03, 2025

Who is better: Nicolas Cage or John Travolta? Text Me Back co-hosts Lindy West and Meagan Hatcher-Mays return for this live debate from On Air Fest! Lindy argues that Cage has much more range on-screen and is far less controversial off-screen. Meagan (who used to run a John Travolta hate page on MySpace) points out that Travolta is a triple threat: Oscar-nominated actor, dancer, and singer with four top-40 hits. How will Ronald Young Jr. rule? And will the live audience agree?

Follow Lindy @thelindywest on Instagram and Meagan @importantmeagan on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Introducing: Our Ancestors Were Messy Mar 27, 2025

We wanted to share an episode of one of our favorite new podcasts, Our Ancestors Were Messy, hosted by one of PCDC's favorite guests: Nichole Hill.

A Victorian Era love triangle rocks the elites of DC and the Washington Bee newspaper is on the scene, thrilled to cover every scandalous detail!

To learn more about the show and keep in touch, check out https://ourancestorsweremessy.com. To access bonus content and support this independent production visit https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.com.

For more information about Black Storytelling Week visit https://www.blackstorytellingweek.com. Check out The Washington Bee digitized and stored at The Library of Congress.

The show is hosted by Nichole Hill (https://www.nicholelhill.com). This week's guest is Jonquilyn Hill (@jonquilynhill)
Executive Producer A.A. Hernandez
Sound design by Helena de Groot (https://www.helenadegroot.me/about)
Story Producer Martina Abrahams Ilunga (@m_tina)
Research Producer Chioke I'Anson (https://www.chiokeianson.com)
Story Editing by Shonte Hill
As promised, the recipe for the Dick Francis Special. Enjoy! https://imbibemagazine.com/dick-francis-special/
Episodes release bi-weekly.

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Calling vs. Texting Mar 20, 2025

Which is better: calling or texting? Comedians Selena Coppock and Chelsea White return to argue this one out. Selena peppers her argument with nostalgic props and says – at the risk of sounding like a Boomer – that calling is more efficient and you don’t have to feel like you’re always available like you do with texting. Chelsea counters that texting is actually the more efficient form of communication and it allows you to communicate in places and at times when you can’t speak on the phone. Plus, you can’t send a meme to someone’s home phone. With all that said, which form of communication will Ronald Young Jr. pick: calling or texting?

Follow Selena @selenacoppock and Chelsea @thechelseawhite on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our shows and get bonus content. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Uno vs. Spades Mar 13, 2025

Which card game is better: Uno or Spades? Comedian and podcast host Abe Gatling and comedian and writer Talib Babb square off in today’s debate. Abe touts Uno’s “unmatched inclusivity” as the main reason it’s the superior card game. Talib says what’s great about Spades is that if you have a deck of cards you can play it. Plus, he adds, the teamwork element builds character. Which game will Ronald Young Jr. choose to play at the next family cookout?

Follow Abe @abe.gatling and Talib @talibbabb on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Seinfeld vs. Curb Your Enthusiasm Mar 06, 2025

Which Larry David show is better: Seinfeld or Curb Your Enthusiasm? Our most heated debaters – writer and performer Carma Anderson and storyteller and director Jameer Pond – return to settle this question. Jameer says Curb would never have been made without the success of Seinfeld, whose stars and guest stars became TV icons. Carma agrees with Jameer, and argues that Curb builds on Seinfeld’s solid foundation and ultimately surpasses it comedically. Ronald Young Jr. will either hand Carma her second PCDC win or even the series with a Jameer victory.

Follow Carma @goodcarmawon on Instagram and Jameer @jameerpond on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Introducing: You're Dead to Me Feb 27, 2025

Pop Culture Debate Club will be back with a new debate next week. Today, we wanted to share an episode of a BBC podcast we think you'll enjoy. You’re Dead To Me is the comedy podcast that takes history seriously. Every episode, Greg Jenner brings together the best names in history and comedy to learn and laugh about the past.

Greg Jenner is joined in 19th-Century America by Dr. Michell Chresfield and comedian Desiree Burch to learn all about abolitionist and suffragist Sojourner Truth. Born into slavery in a Dutch-speaking area of New England, Sojourner Truth fought to free herself and then others, becoming one of the best-known abolitionist activists in America. She even succeeded in freeing her son, making her the first Black American woman to win a court case.

A devoutly religious woman, Truth felt that God had called her to travel the country, preaching and advocating for the end of slavery, women’s rights and universal suffrage. Along the way, she rubbed shoulders with abolitionists like Frederick Douglass, and politicians including Abraham Lincoln himself.

This episode tells the story of her incredible life, beliefs and fight for justice, and even examines the true story behind her famous “ain’t I a woman?” speech.

If you’re a fan of inspirational activists, courtroom drama and questionable cults, you’ll love our episode on Sojourner Truth.

If you want more from Desiree and Michell, check out our episodes on Harriet Tubman and Josephine Baker. And for more abolitionist history, listen to our episode on Frederick Douglass.

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Macaulay Culkin vs. Elijah Wood Feb 20, 2025

Which actor had the better childhood career: Macaulay Culkin or Elijah Wood? Text Me Back co-hosts Lindy West and Meagan Hatcher-Mays battle it out today. Lindy argues that Macaulay’s childhood career undoubtedly has had the bigger impact on popular culture. Meagan counters that Elijah’s 90s repertoire proves his superior range as an actor, and foreshadows his more successful adult career. Ronald Young Jr. considered this very debate when he was a kid during the height of Elijah and Macaulay’s childhood stardom. But how will he rule today?

Follow Lindy @thelindywest on Instagram and Meagan @importantmeagan on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our shows and get bonus content. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Revisit: Saturday Night Live vs. In Living Color Feb 16, 2025

We couldn't let the big SNL50 weekend pass without revisiting our debate pitting Saturday Night Live against In Living Color. So without further ado ... which sketch comedy show is better: Saturday Night Live or In Living Color? Writer and performer Carma Anderson says it’s SNL while storyteller and director Jameer Pond votes for In Living Color. Carma says SNL’s longevity is proof of its superiority and argues that it’s produced more stars and has showcased a diverse array of cast members over its 50-year run. Jameer says In Living Color had better quality, brought Black culture into the mainstream, and created cultural icons. After a heated debate, it’s up to Ronald Young Jr. to cast the deciding vote to determine this week’s winner.

Follow Carma @goodcarmawon on Instagram and Jameer @jameerpond on Twitter and Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our shows and get bonus content. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Lord of the Rings vs. Game of Thrones Feb 13, 2025

Which fantasy series is better: Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones? X-Ray Vision co-hosts Rosie Knight and Jason Concepcion are back to tackle today’s topic. Rosie says that J.R.R. Tolkien, as the father of modern fantasy literature, has created an entire universe that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and which provides an accessible entry point for those new to fantasy. Jason argues that Game of Thrones provided us with a last-of-its-kind cultural phenomenon where millions of people watched the same thing at the exact same time. Rosie won the duo’s first debate. Will Jason even the score or will Rosie take a 2-0 series lead? It all comes down to Ronald Young Jr.’s verdict in the debate between Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones.

Follow Jason @x_netw3rk_x on Instagram and @netw3rk on Twitter, and Rosie @rosiemarx on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our shows and get bonus content. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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The Office UK vs. The Office US Feb 06, 2025

Which version of The Office is better: UK or US? Comedian, actor, and writer Liam Williams takes on radio and podcast host Julia Cunningham in today’s debate. Liam points out that The Office UK reinvented sitcom comedies and is the original series, making the US version inherently derivative. Julia counters that the US version improved upon the original, creating a show that remains incredibly popular even though it’s been off the air for over a decade. Which version of The Office will Ronald Young Jr. rule is the superior franchise?

Follow Liam @funnylad5 on Twitter and Julia @juliacunninghaaam on Instagram and @juliacunningham on Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Revisit: iPhones vs Androids Jan 30, 2025

This week we're featuring one of our favorite debates. Which phone is superior: the iPhone or the Android? Taking the side of iPhones is actor and comedian Langston Kerman, while fellow actor and comedian Baron Vaughn is Team Android. And here to adjudicate is Ronald Young Jr. Langston says iPhones look better, are easier to use, and that the majority of Americans agree with him because iPhones are a majority of cell phones in the US. Baron says Androids offer customization that iPhones do not and don’t fall victim to “planned obsolescence” the way iPhones do. How will Ronald rule? And will his personal phone preference influence his choice?

Follow Langston @langstonkerman on Instagram and X and Baron @barvonblaq on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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John Williams vs. Hans Zimmer Jan 23, 2025

Which film score composer is better: John Williams or Hans Zimmer? Two musicians, Bobby Lopez and Jonathan Coulton, join Ronald Young Jr. today to settle the debate. Bobby says John Williams is the most prolific and influential film composer of the 20th century, who continued his prolific career well into the 21st. Jonathan argues that Hans Zimmer excels at making music that enhances and supports the film without taking it over. Which movie composer will Ronald declare the greatest of all time?

Follow Jonathan @realjonathancoulton on Instagram and @jonathancoulton on Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Father of the Bride vs. The Wedding Planner Jan 16, 2025

Which wedding film is better: Father of the Bride or The Wedding Planner? Squaring off in today’s debate are the hosts of the Betches Brides podcast: Chelsea White and Selena Coppock. Chelsea says The Wedding Planner has an all-star cast and flips the wedding movie genre on its head by focusing on the person planning the wedding, not the person in the wedding. Selena argues that Father of the Bride has an even more stellar cast and manages to tug at your heartstrings while also giving you slapstick physical comedy. Which rom-com will Ronald Young Jr. declare the best wedding movie?

Follow Selena @selenacoppock on Instagram and Chelsea @thechelseawhite on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Oprah Winfrey vs. Wendy Williams Jan 09, 2025

Which daytime talk show host reigns supreme: Oprah Winfrey or Wendy Williams? This debate features returning guests Jonquilyn Hill and Nichole Hill, with Jonquilyn taking up for Team Wendy and Nichole repping Team Oprah. Jonquilyn says that Wendy is unabashedly authentic who will always tell you her truth without any pretense. As for Oprah, Nichole argues that she’s extraordinarily successful in so many different ways and laid the groundwork for people like Wendy. Which talk show queen will Ronald crown this week’s winner?

Follow Nichole @nicholewthanh on Instagram and @nichill732 on Twitter and Jonquilyn @jonquilynhill on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Introducing: History’s Youngest Heroes — The Brief Reign of Lady Jane Dec 26, 2024

PCDC is taking a holiday break and we wanted to share another BBC podcast with you this week: History's Youngest Heroes. Stripped of her crown and trapped In the Tower of London will Lady Jane Grey give up her faith or face the executioner’s axe? Nicola Coughlan shines a light on extraordinary young people from across history. Join her for 12 stories of rebellion, risk and the radical power of youth.

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All I Want for Christmas Is You vs. Last Christmas Dec 19, 2024

Which new classic has become the best Christmas song of all time: All I Want for Christmas Is You or Last Christmas? Writer, journalist, and poet Kyla Marshell is here to argue for Mariah Carey while radio host, music journalist, and documentary producer Jenny Eliscu takes the side of Wham! Kyla says Mariah created a new standard, which is hard to do in any genre. Jenny must admit that All I Want for Christmas Is You is an excellent song but says Last Christmas resonates with all the people for whom the holidays aren’t a joyful time, but does so in an incredibly catchy way. Which way will Ronald Young Jr. rule? The result is a PCDC first!

Follow Kyla @khellonmars on Instagram and Jenny @jennylsq on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Saturday Night Live vs. In Living Color Dec 12, 2024

Which sketch comedy show is better: Saturday Night Live or In Living Color? Writer and performer Carma Anderson says it’s SNL while storyteller and director Jameer Pond votes for In Living Color. Carma says SNL’s longevity is proof of its superiority and argues that it’s produced more stars and has showcased a diverse array of cast members over its 50-year run. Jameer says In Living Color had better quality, brought Black culture into the mainstream, and created cultural icons. After a heated debate, it’s up to Ronald Young Jr. to cast the deciding vote to determine this week’s winner.

Follow Carma @goodcarmawon on Instagram and Jameer @jameerpond on Twitter and Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Mission: Impossible vs. The Fast and the Furious Dec 05, 2024

Which action movie franchise is better: Mission: Impossible or The Fast and the Furious? Journalist and podcaster Sam Sanders says the answer is The Fast and the Furious while writer Audrey Cleo Yap argues for Mission: Impossible. Audrey likes that the Mission: Impossible franchise centers on Tom Cruise, who she says is the last true action star. Sam prefers that The Fast and the Furious includes an exciting (and ever-expanding) ensemble and argues that the franchise is progressive and continues to evolve with each subsequent film. Ronald Young Jr. considers their arguments and renders his verdict in the debate over which franchise is better.

Follow Sam @samsanders on Instagram and Twitter, and Audrey @audreycleo on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

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A League of Their Own vs. Apollo 13 Nov 21, 2024

Which classic Tom Hanks movie would you rather re-watch: A League of Their Own or Apollo 13? Normally, the co-hosts of the Born to Love podcast are the best of friends, but this week Ellie Kemper and Scott Eckert take a turn as rivals with Ellie arguing for A League of Their Own and Scott taking up for Apollo 13. Ellie says that A League of Their Own is a delightful ensemble film that offers laughs, tears, and even some American history while Scott points out that Apollo 13 includes both tragedy and triumph and was the role that changed the course of Tom Hanks’s career. Which film will Ronald Young Jr. choose to re-watch? His decision settles the debate at the end of the show.

Follow Ellie @elliekemper on Instagram and Scott @mescotteckert on Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Trainspotting vs. Purple Rain Nov 14, 2024

Which is the best movie soundtrack: Trainspotting or Purple Rain? The co-hosts of the One Song podcast square off this week with Diallo Riddle taking the side of Trainspotting and LUXXURY representing Purple Rain. However, the planned debate gets derailed immediately when host Ronald Young Jr. admits he’s “neutral” on Prince. In a PCDC first, the guests join forces and try to convince Ronald to give Prince another shot. Will they succeed?

Follow LUXXURY @luxxury on Instagram and Twitter and Diallo @diallo on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Introducing: Central Intelligence Nov 07, 2024

Pop Culture Debate Club will be back with a brand new episode next week. This week, we wanted to share an episode of another great podcast from the BBC that you might enjoy – Central Intelligence, a major new audio drama series starring Kim Cattrall, Ed Harris and Johnny Flynn.

Central Intelligence tells the inside story of the CIA from the perspective of Eloise Page (Kim Cattrall), who joined on the Agency’s first day in 1947 and, in a 40-year career, became one of its most powerful women. Eloise takes the listener on a journey through the highs and lows of US foreign policy, spanning the staggering world events that shaped her career, as well as portraying her relationships with early CIA leaders, Allen Dulles and Richard Helms.

New episodes available on Fridays. Listen first on BBC Sounds.

In Episode 1, tensions with Russia in war-torn Europe, and a letter found in Hitler’s safe…

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Tyler Perry vs. Spike Lee Oct 31, 2024

Who is the better filmmaker: Spike Lee or Tyler Perry? Jonquilyn Hill, the host of Explain It to Me, is Team Spike while Nichole Hill, the host of The Secret Adventures of Black People, is Team Tyler. And the neutral arbiter – until the end – is Ronald Young Jr. Jonquilyn argues that Spike Lee is a true artist who has made biopics, documentaries, music videos, and TV shows. Nichole says that Tyler Perry is an entertainer who makes films that are more broadly accessible. Which side will Ronald ultimately join this week?

Follow Nichole @nicholewthanh on Instagram and @nichill732 on Twitter and Jonquilyn @jonquilynhill on Instagram and Twitter.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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DC vs. Marvel Oct 24, 2024

Which comic book publisher is superior: DC or Marvel? The co-hosts of the X-Ray Vision podcast duke it out this week with Rosie Knight on the side of DC and Jason Concepcion arguing for Marvel. And Ronald Young Jr. has the near-impossible task of picking a winner. Jason argues that Marvel is a more modern type of comic book experience and the characters are more grounded in reality. Rosie says that DC is arguably the originator of superhero comics whose characters have become cultural figureheads. Which way will Ronald rule this week?

Follow Jason @x_netw3rk_x on Instagram and @netw3rk on X and Rosie @rosiemarx on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Speed vs. Passenger 57 Oct 17, 2024

Which mass transit action film is better: Speed or Passenger 57? Comedian Wyatt Cenac is here to represent Passenger 57, while comedian Chris Duffy argues in favor of Speed. And Ronald Young Jr. will cast the deciding vote. On the one hand, Speed launched Keanu Reeves’s action movie career and Chris says its legacy is undeniable. On the other hand, Passenger 57 did the same for Wesley Snipes and Wyatt says it holds up better. Which movie will Ronald select as this week’s winner?

Follow Chris @chrisiduffy on Instagram and Wyatt @wyattcenac on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

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Disney Channel vs. Nickelodeon Oct 10, 2024

Which children's cable TV channel is better: Disney Channel or Nickelodeon? Two comedians square off this week in this nostalgic battle, with Evan Mills taking the side of Disney Channel and Hoja Lopez here to fight for Nickelodeon. And Ronald Young Jr. will listen to what they each have to say and then declare a winner. On the one hand, Evan says Disney Channel produced a longer list of lasting stars, movies, and shows. On the other hand, Hoja argues that Nickelodeon’s alt-humor did a better job of embracing, as she calls it, “the chaotic nature of childhood.” Which argument will sway Ronald this week?

Follow Hoja @alohahoja on Instagram and X and Evan @awkvanmills on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

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iPhones vs. Androids Oct 03, 2024

Which phone is superior: the iPhone or the Android? Taking the side of iPhones is actor and comedian Langston Kerman, while fellow actor and comedian Baron Vaughn is Team Android. And here to adjudicate is Ronald Young Jr. Langston says iPhones look better, are easier to use, and that the majority of Americans agree with him because iPhones are a majority of cell phones in the US. Baron says Androids offer customization that iPhones do not and don’t fall victim to “planned obsolescence” the way iPhones do. How will Ronald rule? And will his personal phone preference influence his choice?

Follow Langston @langstonkerman on Instagram and X and Baron @barvonblaq on Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Veep vs. The West Wing Sep 26, 2024

Which political TV show is better: Veep or The West Wing? Two familiar voices square off this week, with former host Aminatou Sow returning to argue on behalf of Veep and previous guest Hrishikesh Hirway taking the side of The West Wing. This is not going to be an easy decision for new host Ronald Young Jr. to make! Aminatou says that recent political headlines prove that Veep is a realistic portrayal of American politics, warts and all, while The West Wing is a liberal fantasy. Hrishi contends that The West Wing wasn’t meant to be realistic and was rather an incredibly entertaining TV show, and that Veep’s satire became too biting to be enjoyable. Which show will Ronald cast his vote for?

Follow Aminatou @aminatou on Instagram and X and Hrishi @hrishihirway on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Ronald Young Jr. @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Love Island: UK x USA Sep 19, 2024

Which Love Island franchise is the best: the original UK or the upstart USA? British podcast host Will Njobvu and American magazine editor Nikki Ogunnaike are here to represent their homelands and do their best to sway Aminatou Sow to pick their show. Will says Love Island UK is real, raw, and vintage reality TV and finds the American version “a bit corny.” Nikki says that Season 6 of Love Island USA overtook the original with a diverse cast of people who had popular culture around the world in a stranglehold this summer. Which franchise will Aminatou declare the winner? Stick around to find out, and also catch some news about the show!

Follow Will @will_njo on X and Instagram and Nikki @nikkiogun on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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SATC’s Truest New Yorker: Carrie x Samantha Sep 12, 2024

Who is the truest New Yorker on Sex and the City? The hosts of 2 Black Girls, 1 Rose are here to make Aminatou Sow choose between Carrie Bradshaw and Samantha Jones. Justine Kay is Team Samantha – a sex-obsessed PR executive who lives in the Meatpacking District and whose girlboss ways Justine argues scream New York. Natasha Scott-Reichel comes representing Team Carrie – a fashion-loving sex columnist living on the Upper East Side who Natasha says embodies a NYC "It Girl." Whom will Aminatou declare the truest New Yorker on Sex and the City?

Follow Nastasha and Justine @2blackgirls1rose on Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Worst American Abroad: Indiana Jones x Deuce Bigalow Sep 05, 2024

Who is the worst fictional American abroad in pop culture? Two comedians square off this week and try to convince Aminatou Sow that their pick should be barred from international travel. Solomon Georgio wants to ban Indiana Jones from leaving America while David Gborie thinks it's Deuce Bigalow who needs to stay Stateside. Solomon says Indy steals antiquities and didn’t stop Nazis when he had multiple chances. David isn’t a fan of Deuce’s homophobic language and use of racial stereotypes. Ultimately, Aminatou Sow must revoke one passport and declare the worst fictional American abroad.

Follow Solomon @solomongeorgio and David @coolguyjokes87on Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Introducing: Lady Killers with Lucy Worsley Aug 29, 2024

This week we wanted to shareanother great podcast from the BBC that you might enjoy – Lady Killers with Lucy Worsley.Lucy travels back in time to revisit the unthinkable crimes of 19th century murderesses from the UK, Australia and North America.

In this episode Lucy is joined by Evy Poumpouras, former special agent with the Secret Service, where she protected five US presidents as part of the Presidential Protective Division.

Lucy and Evy investigate the case of Mary Surratt, a 42 year-old widow, mother and pious Catholic who was arrested in April 1865 for conspiring to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln. He had been shot by former actor John Wilkes Booth while watching a play at Ford’s Theatre in Washington DC. One of the most sensational trials in US history followed, with prosecutors pushing for death sentences for everyone involved in the murder.

Lucy and Evy want to find out why the authorities were so sure that Surratt was involved in the assassination. They want to know what her story tells us about the lives of women at the close of the American Civil War. And they ask what happens when women step outside the domestic sphere and dare to get involved in protest and politics?

To find out more about the background to the Civil War and Lincoln’s assassination, Lucy asks Dr Nikki M Taylor, Professor of History at Howard University Washington DC, to go to Ford’s Theatre and to the Surratt House Museum, formerly Mary’s Surratt’s tavern in Maryland. Mary Surratt, she discovers, was a slave-holder and, like John Wilkes Booth, was horrified by Lincoln’s intention to end slavery and enfranchise African Americans.

Mary Surratt is an elusive and divisive woman. Lucy wants to know if she was a devoted mother attempting to make her way in the world – or a hard-hearted conspirator, a slave-holder and fanatical Confederate trying to reignite the civil war.

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Bachelor Nation: Bachelor/ette x Bachelor in Paradise Aug 22, 2024

Which is the better franchise: the original Bachelor/Bachelorette or the spin-off, Bachelor in Paradise? Podcast host Traci Thomas loves the original franchise while radio host Mariah Smith prefers the spin-off, and they're both here today to convince Aminatou Sow that their pick should win. Traci loves the drama and romance of the Bachelor/Bachelorette and thinks that Bachelor in Paradise always fizzles toward the end of the season. Mariah argues that Bachelor in Paradise has had more successful couples come from it and says people only go on The Bachelor/Bachelorette to end up on Paradise anyway. Ultimately, Aminatou must decide which show will receive her final rose.

Follow Traci @biTRACIal on X and Mariah @mRiah on X and @mariahmariahmariah on Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Book Format: Audio x Paper Aug 15, 2024

It’s our first literary – and marital – debate! Which is the best way to consume books: audiobooks or paper books? Essayist and critic Maris Kreizman prefers to listen to her books while comedian Josh Gondelman wants to physically hold what he’s reading. And their job today is to convince Aminatou Sow to pick their preferred format. Maris loves that audiobooks allow her to multitask and thinks the reading experience can be enhanced when an author reads their own work aloud. Josh loves being forced to only focus on the words when he’s reading a book and wants to interpret the works for himself without someone else’s performance influencing him. Aminatou must consider the arguments on both sides and declare a winner in the battle between audiobooks and paper books.

Follow Maris @mariskreizman on X and Instagram and Josh @joshgondelman on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Worst TV Lawyer: Will Gardner x Rusty Sabich Aug 08, 2024

Who is the worst lawyer on TV? Author and TV writer Samantha Irby says it’s Will Gardner from The Good Wife and writer and podcast host Josie Duffy Rice picks Rusty Sabich from Presumed Innocent. One’s a prosecutor, the other a defense attorney. One’s accused of murder, the other bribing a judge. And they both make questionable romantic decisions. Aminatou Sow must render her verdict and declare which of the two is the worst lawyer on television.

Follow Sam @bitchesgottaeat on Instagram and Josie @jduffyrice on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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On-Screen Portrayal of Motherhood: Better Things x Auntie Mame Aug 01, 2024

What is the best on-screen depiction of motherhood? Parenting columnist Amil Niazi picks the TV show Better Things and journalist Jane Marie chooses the 1958 movie Auntie Mame, leaving Aminatou Sow with the unenviable task of selecting a winner. Which of the two better captures the highs and lows of motherhood? How do you compare someone who chose to be a mom with someone who had motherhood thrust upon them? And how will Amil’s baby attending the recording affect Aminatou’s choice? As ever, it’s up to her to decide as she determines which TV show or movie best portrays motherhood.

Follow Amil @amil on X and Jane @SeeJaneMarie on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Lifetime Movie: Jackie’s Back! x Mother, May I Sleep with Danger? Jul 25, 2024

Which made-for-TV movie on the Lifetime Network is the best of all time? The co-hosts of The Deep Dive take sides, with Jessica St. Clair choosing Jackie’s Back! (1999) and June Diane Raphael picking the 2016 remake of Mother, May I Sleep with Danger? But, how do you compare a shockingly star-studded mockumentary with a sexy vampire thriller? That’s Aminatou Sow’s challenge this week! She does her best to weigh the pros and cons of each pick and also puts June and Jess’s love of Lifetime movies to the test in a lightning round where they have to suss out real movie plots from made-up ones – all in order to decide which Lifetime original movie is the best ever.

Follow June @MsJuneDiane on X and @junediane Instagram and Jess @Jessica_StClair on X and @stclairjessica on Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real Housewives: RHONY x Beverly Hills Jul 18, 2024

Which Real Housewives franchise is the best of all time: New York or Beverly Hills? The Watch What Crappens podcast co-hosts square off – Ben Mandelker is team RHONY while Ronnie Karam is repping Beverly Hills – to try and get Aminatou Sow to select their respective installment as the winner. Who’s the bigger villain, Ramona Singer or Camille Grammer? How does Yolanda Foster’s “almond mom” moment compare to Bethenny Frankel’s Skinnygirl empire? And what do we even do with the RHONY reboot? Aminatou considers all of these questions and more on her way to declaring the best Real Housewives franchise ever.

Follow Ben @benmandelker on X and Instagram and Ronnie @ronniekaram on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Movie Feast: In the Mood for Love x The Menu Jul 11, 2024

Which feast from a film would you most want to eat? Podcaster Hrishikesh Hirway would like to slurp up the noodles from In the Mood for Love (2000) while podcaster and cookbook author Dan Pashman craves the cheeseburger from The Menu (2022). And their task in today’s episode is to do their best to convince Aminatou Sow that their dish should reign supreme. Which is more compelling, the comfort of the noodles or the creative spark of the cheeseburger? Which food plays a more pivotal role in its respective movie? And perhaps a surprising consideration, which dish is accompanied by the better music? Aminatou weighs these factors and more when deciding which movie feast she’d order for herself.

Follow Hrishikesh @hrishihirway on X and Instagram and Dan @thesporkful on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

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Hip Hop Movie: CB4 x House Party Jul 04, 2024

What is the most important hip hop movie of all time? Journalist Bomani Jones says it’s House Party (1990), while rapper Fat Tony picks CB4 (1993). After hearing from both sides, Aminatou Sow must choose one as the winner, and it’s not an easy pick! How does CB4’s look at the fetishization of gangsta rappers by the music industry compare to House Party’s subtle examination of class and Blackness in American society? Which is more damning, the early-90s-era homophobia in CB4 or the old actors playing high school kids in House Party? And since we’re talking about hip hop, which movie has the better music? There’s so much for Aminatou to think about before crowning the most important hip hop film of all time.

Follow Bomani Jones @bomani_jones on X and Instagram and Fat Tony @fattonyrap on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TV Cast Hang: Community x New Girl Jun 27, 2024

Which TV ensemble would make for a better hang: journalist Candice Lim’s choice of New Girl or audio producer Ronald Young Jr.’s pick of Community? That’s up to Aminatou Sow to decide! Would you rather spend time with a crew who are all at the prime TV cool age (aka late 20s/early 30s), or with people of all ages and backgrounds? Which show had the better guest stars … and the better hijinks? And how does Jess’s quirkiness compare with Pierce’s problematic ways? Aminatou weighs the answers to these questions and more to decide which cast would be more fun to add to her social circle.

Follow Candice Lim @thecandicelim on X and Ronald Young Jr @OhitsBIGRON on X and Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports Movie: Space Jam x D2: The Mighty Ducks Jun 27, 2024

Aminatou Sow must pick between actor Carl Tart’s choice of the original Space Jam (1996) and TV writer Lamar Woods’s selection of D2: The Mighty Ducks (1994). Which is a more fearsome opponent, aliens or Iceland? Who is a better coach, Michael Jordan or Gordon Bombay? How realistic is the sports action in each film? Which one better stands up to the test of time? Aminatou asks these questions and more in order to crown the best sports film of all time.

Follow Carl Tart @dammitcarl and Lamar Woods @prophmatic on Instagram.

Keep up with Aminatou Sow @aminatou on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming Soon: Pop Culture Debate Club (Official Trailer) May 31, 2024

Get ready for some pop culture hot takes! Each week, two notable pop culture aficionados do their best to convince host Aminatou Sow that their pick should win in a variety of creative face-offs between unlikely adversaries. Which TV cast would you most want to hang out with? What’s the best sports movie ever made? Who’s the best mother in media? And what fictional film feast is the one you most want to eat? Who will prevail? Find out starting on June 27.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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