DJ and Reg get real about their early days in corporate America and what they wish they’d known stepping into their first jobs. They swap stories about growing up on kung fu movies, the lessons of childhood combat fantasies, and pivot to foundational advice for navigating the workforce. DJ recounts his time as an inventory and logistics specialist at General Motors, reflecting on undervaluing his first role (and the importance of dressing for success), while Reg shares lessons from his start in pharmaceuticals and the value of mentorship—and humility—on the job.

Together, they break down why understanding the bigger picture at work can be a game-changer, the myth of “genius” in the boardroom, and why it pays to speak up even when you’re new. The conversation is packed with practical advice, from maximizing that 401k early, to respecting everyone in the building (from custodians to executives). With honesty and humor, DJ and Reg give listeners real talk on getting your money right, learning from seasoned coworkers, and embracing both mistakes and small wins on the path to “making it.” Whether you’re about to start your journey or decades in, this episode serves up wisdom on how to succeed while staying true to yourself.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M6tKWAgzNMA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome to Mama We Made It! with DJ & Reg. While this episode was recorded before Sly’s recent passing, it takes on new resonance as DJ & Reg dig into the revelatory documentary Sly Lives, which chronicles the genius and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone.

They deliver their honest, nuanced reactions to Questlove’s powerful film—praising its vibrant storytelling, in-depth interviews with legendary musicians, and its candid look at Sly Stone’s impact on Black culture and music innovation. DJ shares the personal inspiration he’s drawn from Sly’s music since childhood, while Reg reflects on the roots of Black genius, the role of church in fostering creative expression, and his own surprise at how much he learned from the film.

They touch on the documentary’s exploration of liberation, vulnerability, and the emotional toll of artistic genius, with standout commentary from artists like D’Angelo, Q-Tip, and George Clinton. DJ & Reg both highlight the bittersweet realities of Sly’s rise, fall, and enduring influence, from creative highs to the pain of isolation, addiction, and the complexities of ownership and legacy. The discussion unpacks broader questions about what it means to “make it” as a Black creator, and how shifts in music ownership reflect changes in both culture and commerce. Ultimately, DJ and Reg make the case for why “Sly Lives” is essential viewing—especially for anyone passionate about Black creativity, resilience, and musical history.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xdYM8D1iCZA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In this week's episode of Mama We Made It, hosts DJ and Reg dive deep into the new series "Forever," offering up their heartfelt and unfiltered reactions. They explore the show's nuanced approach to Black love, heartbreak, parenting, and coming-of-age, reflecting on how its authentic storytelling feels like a camera pointed straight into their own lives and living rooms. Reg shares his lifelong connection to seminal Black authors and how seeing Judy Blume's work adapted by Mara Brock Akil struck a personal chord, while DJ opens up about his upbringing, first heartbreak, and the rich dimensions of Black family relationships depicted on screen.

They praise standout performances, highlighting Wood Harris's real and relatable portrayal of fatherhood and the complexity of young love between Justin and Keisha. The discussion covers critical themes like navigating adolescence in predominantly white spaces, addressing mental health in the Black community, and the layered realities of modern Black parenting. Together, they unpack some of the show's most challenging moments—including issues of consent, the role of the village, and intergenerational dynamics—while debating whether they really need a second season or if the series stands strong as it is. If you haven't watched "Forever" yet, the DJ & Reg make a passionate case for adding it to your must-see list.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3cJQ6t84Mkk

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In this episode of Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg break down the latest Pew Research Center data on Black America, reflecting on its significance and real-life implications.

They take a close look at why the number of people self-identifying as Black in the US matters, examine patterns in migration with a focus on African and Caribbean immigration, and unpack differences in education and household wealth across racial groups. They also discuss the evolution of self-reported race in census data and its importance, and highlight why access to accurate data is essential for teaching, community building, and shaping the narrative around Black existence. With engaging personal stories and a historical lens, this episode delivers an honest, matter-of-fact look at the current state and future of the Black community in America.

Pew Research Center - Key facts about the U.S. Black population - https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2025/01/23/key-facts-about-black-americans/

Pew Reserach Center: https://www.pewresearch.org/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A5WMrVnVFkU

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

Welcome back to Mama We Made It! DJ and Reg continue their conversation with Nakeia Medcalf for a rich, SPOILER HEAVY! discussion on Ryan Coogler's latest film "Sinners." The trio brings their unique perspectives as Black Christians, exploring how the movie's treatment of faith, legacy, and the afterlife resonated with their own church upbringings. Nakeia dives into the Pentecostal echoes she felt throughout the film, from musical moments to themes of spiritual "crossing over." At the same time, Reg highlights the nuanced portrayal of family, community, and the southern Black experience. DJ reflects on how the film reawakened childhood memories of Sunday school and why small details like treats and color symbolism matter.

Together, they break down everything from the power dynamics between characters, the significance of southern setting as "character," and the use of imagery like plantation money and juke joints. The conversation also zooms out to examine Coogler's groundbreaking business deal—touching on artistic autonomy, ownership, and legacy in Hollywood. The episode closes with a round of favorite lines, thoughts on representation, and major love for Black creatives telling Black stories.

Resources:
Hannah Beachler and set design inspiration:
https://variety.com/2025/artisans/news/sinners-easter-egg-black-panther-howlin-wolf-hannah-beachler-1236378489/

Symbolism and subtext:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/movies/sinners-symbolism.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Hollywood undermining Sinners:
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/26/the-smash-success-of-sinners-could-shift-hollywoods-power-balance/

Key interesting reviews:
https://jacobin.com/2025/04/sinners-coogler-race-history-horror/

https://collider.com/what-should-hollywood-learn-from-sinners-success/

https://andscape.com/features/sinners-movie-brought-us-home-and-refused-to-let-vampires-take-it-from-us/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sinners-box-office-film_n_680abd8be4b031fa917d7773

Ryan Coogler Kodak video: technical discussion - aspect ratio, film stock, and more:
https://reactormag.com/sinners-director-ryan-coogler-explains-film-stock-and-aspect-ratios/

Ruth Carter interview on her process:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a64567733/sinners-ruth-e-carter-costumes-interview-2025/

Easter Eggs and hidden messages:
https://screenrant.com/sinners-secret-details-spotify-explainer/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tp7gnOcGxRA

You can also listen to Mama, We Made It with DJ & Reg on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939

Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f

In the second episode of Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg are joined by the insightful Nakeia Medcalf for a dynamic discussion of the provocative film "Sinners." SPOILER ALERT! The panel dives headfirst into their viewing experiences, unpacking how the film’s layered storytelling, vibrant spirituality, and powerful music shapes their emotional response. Drawing from their own backgrounds—ranging from Pentecostal and Baptist upbringings to horror fandom—they address the film's evocative exploration of faith, creativity, and trauma within Black communities.

Together, they spotlight unforgettable performances, giving major flowers to characters like Annie, Remick, and Sammy, and celebrate the nuanced casting that brings these roles to life. The trio also unpacks the film’s visual and sonic artistry, from stunning costume design to intentional color palettes, and reflect on how musical traditions like the blues embody resistance, survival, and connection across generations.

In their second-watch deep dive, the hosts uncover hidden symbols and references—like date callbacks to "Candyman" and the significance of names and places—that redefine what the film offers on repeat viewings. With laughter, candor, and personal insight, they explore what makes "Sinners" a must-see (and must-see-again) experience.

Resources:
Hannah Beachler and set design inspiration:
https://variety.com/2025/artisans/news/sinners-easter-egg-black-panther-howlin-wolf-hannah-beachler-1236378489/

Symbolism and subtext:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/movies/sinners-symbolism.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Hollywood undermining Sinners:
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/26/the-smash-success-of-sinners-could-shift-hollywoods-power-balance/

Key interesting reviews:
https://jacobin.com/2025/04/sinners-coogler-race-history-horror/

https://collider.com/what-should-hollywood-learn-from-sinners-success/

https://andscape.com/features/sinners-movie-brought-us-home-and-refused-to-let-vampires-take-it-from-us/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sinners-box-office-film_n_680abd8be4b031fa917d7773

Ryan Coogler Kodak video: technical discussion - aspect ratio, film stock, and more:
https://reactormag.com/sinners-director-ryan-coogler-explains-film-stock-and-aspect-ratios/

Ruth Carter interview on her process:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a64567733/sinners-ruth-e-carter-costumes-interview-2025/

Easter Eggs and hidden messages:
https://screenrant.com/sinners-secret-details-spotify-explainer/

Welcome to the pilot episode of "Mama, We Made It" with DJ and Reg. In this launch, the stage is set for what this podcast is all about—real conversations, lived experience, and helping people get free and flourish.

- How DJ and Reg's 40-year friendship shaped their journey and this show
- The true meaning behind "Mama, We Made It" and why it's for everyone
- Personal stories of loss, resilience, and pursuing human flourishing
- Honest talk about accountability, community, and supporting Black liberation

What listeners can expect from future episodes—guests, real talk, and no-holds-barred conversation
Subscribe and join us as we dig deep, laugh, reflect, and keep it real every week.

Interested in reading the article Reg referred to about the rate of black men in college? Check it out - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/30/us/black-men.html

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What does it mean to be Black in America? Longtime friends, Daryl Jones and Reginald Hamlett, are here to offer guidance and wisdom, gained through research, stories, and life experience. Mama, We Made It! With DJ and Reg, is your weekly reminder to embrace joy and find your path to flourishing.