The A.R. Bernard Show

Ep 21: Lessons on Life and Love Nov 18, 2024

Welcome to a special episode of The AR Bernard Show, showcasing some of this year’s most memorable moments.

As the year draws to a close, AR Bernard reflects with a heart full of gratitude. He feels deeply blessed—not only for his loved ones and confidantes but also for the loyal audience who has accompanied him on this journey.

This episode revisits some of the most impactful conversations, focusing on the theme of interpersonal relationships. From mentorship to romance, and the bonds between parents and children, the show explores how meaningful connections shape lives and inspire growth.

Throughout the year, The AR Bernard Show has welcomed thought leaders and luminaries from a variety of fields. Hollywood icons like Latanya Richardson Jackson, Courtney B. Vance, and Yvette Nicole Brown shared their unique insights, while newsmakers such as Stephen A. Smith offered bold perspectives. Personal and inspiring stories were also shared by Israel and Adrienne Houghton, Jamie Hector, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, Rickey Smiley, and Bebe Winans.

Each guest brought wisdom, openness, and vulnerability, inspiring and educating audiences along the way. AR Bernard hopes their stories continue to uplift and resonate with listeners.

Thank you for tuning in to this special episode of The AR Bernard Show, celebrating the remarkable voices and moments that defined the year.

Connect with Our Guests on Social Media:

Yvette Nicole Brown

Instagram: @yvettenicolebrown

Twitter (X): @YNB

Stephen A. Smith

Instagram: @stephenasmith

Twitter (X): @stephenasmith

Israel Houghton

Instagram: @israelhoughton

Twitter (X): @israelhoughton

Adrienne Bailon Houghton

Instagram: @adriennebailon

Twitter (X): @AdrienneBailon

Jamie Hector

Instagram: @jamiehector

Twitter: @JamieHector

Facebook: Official Jamie Hector

Rickey Smiley

Instagram: @rickeysmileyofficial

Twitter (X): @RickeySmiley

Bebe Winans

Instagram: @bebe_winans

Twitter (X): @bebewinans

Thank you for tuning in to this special episode celebrating the remarkable voices and moments that defined the year. Stay inspired!

Ep 20: Family Secrets, Forgiveness, and Unbiased Reporting: A Conversation with Journalist and Author Michelle Miller Oct 28, 2024

Imagine discovering that you really don’t know who you are, so you begin your search for your true identity, embarking on an eye-opening and complicated journey. In this episode of The AR Bernard Show, correspondent and author Michelle Miller joins Pastor Bernard to discuss her book, Belonging, which explores themes of identity, family, and reconnection. Michelle opens up about her personal journey of reconnecting with her estranged mother and the emotional complexity of their relationship. She also shares her philosophy on journalism, emphasizing the importance of remaining unbiased while reporting. Together, Miller and Pastor Bernard dive deep into the power of forgiveness, examining how it plays a crucial role in both her personal life and her work as a journalist.

BIO

Michelle Miller is an award-winning correspondent for CBS News and co-host of CBS Saturday Morning. Over her distinguished career, she has covered major news stories, from Hurricane Katrina to the COVID-19 pandemic, offering thoughtful and insightful reporting. A graduate of Howard University and the University of New Orleans, she has been a leading voice in journalism for over two decades. With her book Belonging, Michelle takes readers on a personal journey, sharing her experiences of finding her roots and rediscovering family. Her work reflects her dedication to telling untold stories with compassion and clarity.

Follow Michelle Miller on social:

Twitter: @MichelleMiller29

Instagram: @michellemiller29

Ep 19: The Power of Bias: Denise Hamilton and Joe Battaglia on Harris, Trump & Media Oct 07, 2024

In this insightful episode of The AR Bernard Show, A.R. Bernard sits down with two influential thought leaders to discuss the current landscape of American politics. Denise Hamilton, a DEI expert and author, shares her perspective on the state of inclusivity, the role of unconscious biases, and offers candid views on Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Joe Battaglia, a seasoned author, host, and the executive producer of the country’s top faith-based music radio show, provides his take on how the media is shaping the presidential election narrative, examines VP Harris’s engagement with the press, and reflects on Trump’s ongoing influence in politics. Tune in for a compelling conversation that tackles the intersection of politics, media, and diversity.

Denise Hamilton Bio:

Denise Hamilton is a leading expert on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and a passionate advocate for creating more inclusive spaces in corporate America and beyond. As the author of Do Something: The DEI Workbook, Denise encourages individuals to challenge their unconscious biases and work toward greater awareness and empathy. She frequently appears on platforms to discuss social justice, leadership, and DEI best practices.

Connect with Denise Hamilton on social media:

Joe Battaglia Bio:

Joe Battaglia is a renowned author, host, and media producer with decades of experience at the intersection of faith and media. He’s the executive producer of the country’s top faith-based music radio show, “Keep the Faith.” He is also the author of Make America Good Again: 12.5 Biblical Principles to Unite Our Nation, Restore True Greatness, and Bring Healing to Our Land and The Politically Incorrect Jesus: Living Boldly in a Culture of Unbelief. Joe is known for his sharp insights on how the media shapes public perception, particularly during pivotal moments like presidential elections.

Connect with Joe Battaglia on social media:

Twitter: @joebattags
Instagram: @joebattmedia
LinkedIn: Joe Battaglia

Ep. 18 Comedy and Politics: Strange Bedfellows? How Stand-up Comedian Roy Wood Jr. Uses Humor to Address America’s Political Landscape. | The AR Bernard Show Sep 30, 2024

Is there a place for comedy in journalism? In this engaging episode of The AR Bernard Show, AR Bernard is joined by stand-up comedian, actor, and Emmy-nominated writer and producer, Roy Wood Jr. The two dive into Roy’s exciting new CNN show, Have I Got News For You, where comedy and journalism collide. Together, they explore the power of humor in addressing serious political issues, the role of comedy in shaping public opinion, and how entertainment can provide fresh perspectives on today’s news. They also tackle the upcoming presidential election, offering a candid and insightful discussion about the political landscape in America.

BIO: A former correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Roy has built a reputation for blending humor with thought-provoking political and cultural analysis. His comedic style challenges societal norms, often shining a light on difficult topics like race, politics, and current events. In addition to his work on The Daily Show, Roy has been featured in multiple stand-up specials, television shows, and films, solidifying his place as one of today’s most influential voices in comedy.

Roy Wood Jr. Social Media Handles:

Twitter: @roywoodjr
Instagram: @roywoodjr
Facebook: Roy Wood Jr.
YouTube: Roy Wood Jr.

Ep 17: How Race & Faith Shape U.S. Politics: Dr. Michael Eric Dyson on The Unfinished Fight for the Vote Sep 21, 2024

With the presidential election less than two months away, we welcome the esteemed Dr. Michael Eric Dyson to The A.R. Bernard Show for a profound discussion on the intersection of race, religion, and politics in America. In this timely episode, the conversation delves into how evangelicalism shapes political discourse and the crucial role racial identity plays in determining electoral outcomes.

Dr. Dyson and A.R. Bernard also explore the challenges Vice President Kamala Harris faces in garnering support from Black male voters and examine the broader shifts within the Republican Party. Dr. Dyson provocatively describes the party’s evolution as a shift from “the Party of Lincoln to the party of Teslas.” He also shares insights from his upcoming book, The Unfinished Fight for the Vote, co-authored with Marc Favreau, which highlights the ongoing struggle to uphold the democratic promises outlined in the Constitution.

BIO: Dr. Michael Eric Dyson is a prominent academic, author, and cultural critic with expertise in race, religion, and politics. He currently serves as a professor at Vanderbilt University and is the author of numerous bestsellers, including Tears We Cannot Stop and Jay-Z: Made in America. A regular media commentator, Dyson is a leading voice on issues of social justice and civil rights, offering sharp and accessible analyses that bridge scholarly work and public discourse.

Here’s where you can find Dr. Dyson:

Twitter (X): @MichaelEDyson

Instagram: @michaelericdyson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDrDyson/

Ep 16: Rickey Smiley on Kamala Harris, Grief and Healing Through Humor Sep 16, 2024

In this episode of The A.R. Bernard Show, comedian, actor, and radio host Rickey Smiley joins Pastor Bernard in an open and honest discussion about the difficult journey of moving through grief, and the healing power of humor. Smiley reflects on the personal losses that have shaped his life, including the heartbreaking death of his son, and how his experiences are, unfortunately, relatable to many. He and A.R. Bernard explore how they’ve both experienced grief while finding resilience and healing through their faith. Smiley also shares insights from his latest book, Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith, offering a candid look at how laughter and faith have helped him move forward despite the challenges. He also touches on his recent conversation with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Rickey Smiley rose to fame with his hilarious prank calls and stand-up comedy, using his talent to blend humor with everyday experiences. Smiley is the host of the nationally syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show, where he delivers a mix of entertainment, humor, and social commentary. Beyond his entertainment career, Smiley is a passionate advocate for social causes, especially those that support youth and education. He is also an accomplished author and philanthropist, deeply committed to helping others through his work on and off the air.

Connect with Rickey Smiley on social media:

YouTube: Rickey Smiley
Facebook: Rickey Smiley Official
Instagram: @rickeysmileyofficial
X (Twitter): @Rickey Smiley
TikTok: rickeysmileydigital

Ep 15: Yvette Nicole Brown on Faith in Politics, Women's Healthcare and Caring for Loved Ones Sep 09, 2024

As the presidential election season intensifies, familiar voices are stepping up to share their views, and today’s guest, Emmy-nominated actress Yvette Nicole Brown, is no exception. Yvette is a long-time advocate for voter education, union rights, and caregivers. In this episode, she opens up about how her faith shapes her political views, her career, and everything else in her life. She also shares in great detail her personal journey as a caregiver for her father.

Best known for her role as Shirley Bennett on NBC's Community, Brown has also appeared in Act Your Age, Inside Out 2, and Always a Bridesmaid (which she also wrote). In addition, she is the host of Squeezed, a podcast focused on caregiving. Tune in for an engaging discussion on faith, politics, and the importance of speaking up.

You can find her podcast and socials below:

Instagram: @yvettenicolebrown

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvettenicolebrown/

X (Tiwtter): @YNB

Podcast, Squeezed: https://lemonada.lnk.to/Squeezed

Ep 14: Changing political parties and practicing faith of acceptance over hate Sep 02, 2024

In this episode, A.R. Bernard is joined by two insightful guests, Sophia Nelson and John Carter, to discuss the state of the Republican Party, the changing demographics of America, and how to build diverse faith-based organizations that embrace multiple backgrounds and cultural perspectives.

Sophia Nelson, a highly respected journalist and political commentator, regularly appears on CNN and MSNBC and contributes to The Washington Post and USA Today. A Pulitzer Prize-nominated author, she was named one of the most influential women leaders in the world by The Guardian in 2018. A longtime Republican, Nelson founded the PAC “Childless Chicks for Harris” in response to the Trump/Vance presidential ticket.

Pastor John Carter is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Abundant Life Christian Center in Syracuse, New York, and serves on the Governor's Interfaith Advisory Board. He is also the author of "The Transformed Life: Discover How to Live from the Inside Out."

Ep 13: Leon Lacey on Creativity, Faith and Managing Celebrity Aug 26, 2024

Leon Lacey, a renowned film composer, music producer, and conductor, has made a name for himself with his innovative fusion of classical music and contemporary genres, blending different musical styles from different cultures, countries and centuries. Lacey’s work has established him as a versatile and influential force in the music industry. Influenced by legendary figures like Quincy Jones, his music has graced major productions and is known for its emotional depth and creativity.

In this episode, Lacey joins A.R. Bernard to discuss the impact of faith on his work and life, his Kobe Bryant inspired work ethic, his creative process and the dream project he never got to work on (spoiler: The Wiz).

Ep 12: CeCe Winans on Family, Faith and Music Aug 21, 2024

CeCe Winans, the most-awarded female gospel artist of all time, with numerous Grammy, Dove, and Stellar Awards, joins Pastor A.R. Bernard for a compelling conversation. They discuss her legendary family, the influence of Detroit on her life and career, the complexities of racial identity in the music industry, and the essential role of faith in her work.

Ep 11: Stephen A. Smith on Harris and Trump, Racial Demographics of America, Sean Hannity and Snoop Dogg at the Olympics Aug 16, 2024

Stephen A. Smith is never one to hold back—whether he's discussing sports, culture, or even presidential politics. As an accomplished commentator and journalist (and outspoken critic of Dallas Cowboys fans), Smith isn’t afraid of tough conversations.

In this episode, A.R. Bernard and Smith dive into Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign and her communications strategy (spoiler: Smith believes Harris should engage with the press more). Smith also shares his thoughts on why Trump's personal attacks resonate with his supporters, reflects on what went right and wrong at the NABJ Convention where Trump said that Harris "happened to turn Black," and discusses how America's shifting racial demographics are impacting politics. The conversation also touches on Smith's relationship with Fox News' Sean Hannity and Snoop Dogg's memorable Olympics coverage.

Ep 10: BeBe Winans on celebrity, his sister CeCe Winans and his religious roots Aug 14, 2024

Detroit-born, six-time Grammy-winning singer Bebe Winans joins A.R. Bernard for an insightful conversation. Winans, one of 10 multi-talented siblings, shares how he and his sister CeCe Winans rose to stardom in an unconventional way. From their roots in a conservative hometown church choir to their time with Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker's PTL, the Winans' journey raises intriguing questions about culture and race. Winans also discusses his transition from performing on stage to working behind the scenes, where he discovered a passion for writing and producing. This led to the Broadway success of his show “Born For This.” The episode also delves into his future projects, including a new television show, “Mind Your Business,” and his latest song, a love letter to God titled “Father in Heaven.”

Ep 9: Director and Screenwriter, Christine Swanson, on faith in filmmaking and diversity in America Aug 07, 2024

Christine Swanson is a prolific director, screenwriter, and producer. Born in South Korea, she moved to the U.S. without speaking English. Today, she is a master storyteller. She sat down with Pastor A.R. Bernard to discuss diversity in America, how Spike Lee inspired her career, and the role of faith in her art.

Ep 8: Adrienne Bailon-Houghton and Israel Houghton on politics, parenting, faith and social media Jul 31, 2024

***NOTE: This episode was recorded before President Biden ended his campaign.

Adrienne Bailon-Houghton and Israel Houghton sit down with A.R. Bernard to explore the alluring and complex realm of social media, the confluence of entertainment and journalism, presidential politics, parenting, and their personal faith journeys.

Adrienne first captivated audiences as a teenager with Disney's The Cheetah Girls. In 2013, she made history as the first Latina to co-host an English-language daytime talk show, The Real. Beyond her media career, she is the founder of the fashion line La Voute.

Israel, a music-industry titan and a co-director of music at the Christian Cultural Center, began his illustrious career in his teens. With 17 Grammy nominations and 6 wins, his influence and artistry are undeniable.

Together, this power couple has achieved remarkable success both individually and as a team. Their bond has only deepened since the birth of their son in 2022.

Ep 7: Jamie Hector on The Wire, Building Community and Social Media Jul 24, 2024

Jamie Hector, who played Marlo Stanfield on HBO’s “The Wire,” sits down with A.R. Bernard to discuss acting, writing, raising children and navigating social media. Hector shares his experiences working in Hollywood and maintaining a moral compass. The Brooklyn-born graduate of the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute delves into the seriousness of his craft and how he leads with empathy to connect with the diverse characters he portrays.

As the founder of the non-profit program Moving Mountains, Hector details his philanthropic mission to change the lives of those in need. The proud first-generation Haitian also devotes his time to co-writing a collection of history textbooks called “Our Community: A Haitian Heritage Collection,” honoring his mother and their homeland, which continues to face challenges.

Ep 6: Linsey Davis on Reporting the News and Writing Children's Books Jul 17, 2024

Linsey Davis, an Anchor with ABC News, sits down with A.R. Bernard to discuss the importance of applying her faith-based mindset to all her projects, the challenges posed by AI, her approach to balanced journalism, and her hopes for the next generation. In her sixth children's book, "Girls of the World," Davis explains how her son serves as both her muse and unofficial co-author. She describes the rewards of writing children's books and her desire to plant inspirational seeds for the next generation. Bernard and Davis also delve into the immense pressures of being a fair and balanced journalist during challenging times.

Ep 5: Courtney B. Vance on Acting With Faith Jul 10, 2024

In this episode, A.R. Bernard peels back the layers of his intimate friendship with Hollywood heavy hitter and Tony and Emmy winning, actor Courtney B. Vance. The two discuss what it means to be Black in Hollywood and explore Vance’s fascinating lifelong faith journey. Vance, married to Academy Award-winning actress Angela Bassett, shares his experience being in a power couple and how they maintain balance between celebrity life and real life as they navigate parenthood with their teenage twins.

Together, they delve into some of the darkest, toughest times Vance experienced, including the aftermath of his father’s suicide and how it has inspired him to help others. Vance talks about the great responsibility he feels to foster conversations within the Black male community about the stigmas surrounding mental illness and therapy. He discusses his efforts to break these barriers through his new book, "The Invisible Ache," co-written with Dr. Robin Smith.

Ep 4: LaTanya Richardson Jackson on Samuel L. Jackson, Addiction, Making the Right Decisions Jul 03, 2024

In this episode of the podcast, A.R. Bernard welcomes his long-time friend, Hollywood actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson. The two delve into the details of her marriage to actor Samuel L. Jackson, her exciting Broadway directorial debut of “The Piano Lesson,” and the importance of her faith-driven life. LaTanya shares her spiritual journey through mega churches. She candidly reveals how faith helped her save Samuel from his battle with addiction and navigate his over three decades of sobriety.

LaTanya also discusses how acting has allowed her to explore her own changeability and how faith has provided her with guardrails when choosing the right characters to play. Both A.R. Bernard and LaTanya Jackson break down parenting, having raised high-profile children in a diverse world, and how to combat certain mental health stigmas in the Black community. Additionally, LaTanya details what it was like to direct her veteran actor husband and how much she looks forward to directing the legendary Patti LaBelle in an upcoming project. The episode is filled with mutual admiration as they identify one another’s God-given gifts and explore their meaning and purpose.

Ep 3: Rabbi Joseph Potasnik on Connecting Through Differences Jun 26, 2024

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik is the son of Holocaust survivors, the Executive Vice President of the New York Board of Rabbis and he was one of the first religious leaders on the scene at Ground Zero on 9/11. A thought leader and author, he is a tireless advocate for civil discourse and as he puts it finding “Unity in the midst of diversity.”

There is no denying that this has been a trying time for Jewish people all over the world. Earlier this year, the CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt stated "The American Jewish community is facing a threat level that's now unprecedented in modern history." As one of the leaders of the largest Jewish population of any city in the world, Rabbi Potasnik is acutely aware of the challenges.

In this episode, Rabbi Potasnik sits down with Pastor AR Bernard to talk about the deeply rooted pain Jewish Americans are experiencing in the wake of October 7th. The two friends discuss the safety crisis on college campuses nationwide as students search for peace and support from their surrounding communities. Potasnik discusses the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the desire for peace with Palestinians.

Potasnik speaks about what it was like growing up as a child of Holocaust survivors and how he has navigated “survivor’s guilt.”

Ep 2: David C. Banks on Running the Largest School System in the U.S. Jun 19, 2024

David C. Banks is the 31st Chancellor of New York City Schools, overseeing the nation’s largest and most diverse school system, which educates over one million students each year. He helped establish The Bronx School for Law, Government, and Justice. As a product of the New York public school system himself, Banks discusses his personal calling to lead the system and how he responds to the needs of the community.

In this episode, Chancellor Banks and A.R. Bernard examine the challenges and triumphs within the New York City public school system. They also address national issues such as safety, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and fostering deeper connections between schools and their communities. Banks highlights the national reading crisis and his NYC Reads initiative. The two delve into Banks' focus on discouraging and combating hate. Additionally, they explore the historic significance of immigration and the "browning of America."

Ep 1: Rev. Al Sharpton and the Next Generation of Social Justice Jun 10, 2024

Reverend Al Sharpton has been at the forefront of social justice issues for half a century. At 13, he became the youth ambassador of Jesse Jackson’s Operation Breadbasket, and in 1991, he founded the National Action Network. Today, his influence continues to grow. He is the host of MSNBC’s PoliticsNation and the popular radio show Keeping it Real, and he has been both a critic and confidant of Presidents, including Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

In this episode, Sharpton and A.R. Bernard explore the future of the social justice and civil rights movements in America. They discuss what it has been like to outlive legendary leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Medgar Evers. The two also address the challenges of bringing communities together in the face of violence and racial divides. This includes their shared experience at the funeral of Ajike "AJ" Shantrell Owens, a mother of four who was shot and killed in Florida. Additionally, they detail how they counsel each other, the baptism of NYC Mayor Eric Adams at Rikers Island, and the role of faith in memorializing those whose lives have been tragically cut short, including George Floyd.

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