This Is The Thing Podcast artwork

This Is The Thing Podcast

191 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 months ago - ★★★★★ - 14 ratings

Two friends opening up and sharing personal experiences through conversation. Tearing down the misconception that black men and just men in general can't be vulnerable. Oh yeah, we talk sports too!

*New Episodes every Tuesday
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Society & Culture
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Episodes

This Is The Thing Ep. 140 - "See It Through"

March 30, 2022 21:44 - 43 minutes - 40 MB

On this episode, Nick & Justin discuss questioning your passion/career choices. Sometimes the passion doesn’t align with your pockets or whatever else life throws at you. Nick & Justin share what keeps them going. In the #SportsBag , they breakdown the UNC/Duke Final Four matchup. #FridayJoint : Phife Dawg ft. Rapsody - Fallback

This Is The Thing Ep 139 - "Fixing Relationships"

March 23, 2022 22:39 - 46 minutes - 42.6 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin open up about relationships/friendships they would like to fix or build a better connection with. In the #SportsBag , they play a little of game of “Sign, Trade or Draft” with the remaining NFL teams to needing a QB. #FridayJoint : Stockz ft. Laricia - MT SHILLMORE

This Is The Thing Ep. 138 - "31 Savage"

March 10, 2022 02:11 - 58 minutes - 53.5 MB

On this latest episode, we learn a little bit more about Nick as he turns 31. Nick and Justin about life in their early 30’s and what’s to come. In the #SportsBag , they discuss the Russell Westbrook controversy. Is calling him “Westbrick” disrespectful or just an honest opinion? 🤔 #FridayJoint : Kojey Radical ft. Masego - Silk

This Is The Thing Ep. 137 - "The Pedestal"

March 02, 2022 23:25 - 1 hour - 57.6 MB

Nick & Justin do a deep dive into the first two parts of the Jeen-Yuhs documentary on Netflix. They also talk about the people who have grown with them and have kept them grounded. In the #SportsBag , they put on their General Manager hats and hypothetically solve the issues with the Lakers and the disconnect between the Arizona Cardinals and their star QB. #FridayJoint : EarthGang, JID, J. Cole - WaterBoyz

This Is The Thing Ep. 136 - "Flawed & Gifted"

February 16, 2022 18:01 - 50 minutes - 46 MB

Dametrius Bell returns to the podcast to talk Valentine’s Day, his growth as a business owner (Flawed Reality LLC), and gives some sports hot takes. #FridayJoint : Hope Tala - Party Sickness

This Is The Thing Ep. 135 - "Starts With A T"

February 10, 2022 16:10 - 48 minutes - 44.5 MB

Nick & Justin discuss what they would want for Valentine’s Day? And why they don’t even get excited about Vday 🥴 In the #SportsBag , they continue their discussion on the NFL and the lack of black head coaches. They also discuss the possibility of the James Harden/Ben Simmons trade. #FridayJoint : Saba, Black Thought, Eryn Allen - Few Good Things

This Is The Thing Ep. 134 - "Love Life"

February 03, 2022 00:33 - 48 minutes - 44.7 MB

Nick & Justin do a deep dive on the second season of the HBO Max show, Love Life. They explore the complexities of the black man experience when it comes to heartbreaking, dating, etc. through the lens of the show. In the #SportsBag , they recap conference championship weekend in the NFL & (prior to the Brian Flores news) breakdown the constant issue over the lack of diversity when it comes to NFL head coaching positions. #FridayJoint : Cordae ft. Freddie Gibbs - Champagne Glasses

This Is The Thing Ep. 133 - "Biopic"

January 26, 2022 23:50 - 1 hour - 56.6 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin talk about the defining scenes in their lives that would be in their biopic. They also share the moments that have shaped their lives thus far. In the #SportsBag , they recap NFL Divisional weekend 🏈 #FridayJoint : Lynda Dawn - Roses

This Is The Thing Ep. 132 - "Read The Room"

January 19, 2022 15:23 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin talk about their families. Specifically, the people who are no longer here that they would like to have one more conversation with. The two talk about hoping to learn more about their family histories and connecting the dots with certain things. In the #SportsBag , they make their predictions on where a handful of NFL QBs will land next season 🤔 #FridayJoint : Kwaku Asante - TightRope

This Is The Thing Ep. 131 - "ROMO"

January 06, 2022 00:44 - 41 minutes - 37.7 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin breakdown the new Apple TV movie, "Swan Song," starring Mahershala Ali. They share their thoughts on making sacrifices for their families one day and the reality of missing out. In the #SportsBag , they discuss the Antonio Brown situation and who are the contenders and pretenders going into the NFL playoffs. #FridayJoint : Sinead Harnett - Where You Been Hiding

This Is The Thing Ep. 130 - "Say Goodbye"

December 29, 2021 15:10 - 49 minutes - 45.6 MB

Nick & Justin compile their annual list of words/phrases/things that we should leave behind in 2021. They also give their Insecure recap. Justin shares what he didn’t like about the last episode 😮 In the #SportsBag , as COVID continues to interrupt the sports world, more and more players are getting their shots on the field/court. Especially in the NBA. Nick & Justin list the guys they would like to see make a comeback on the court. #FridayJoint : Nas - Dedicated

This Is The Thing - "Throwbyke Episode"

December 22, 2021 23:51 - 59 minutes - 54.2 MB

Nick and Justin are back with a surprise throwback episode from earlier in the year! Enjoy!

This Is The Thing Ep. 129 - "Friends...How Many Of Us Have Them?"

December 14, 2021 20:47 - 31 minutes - 28.7 MB

Kendall Lawson, founder/creator of Three Scooops Clothing, joins Nick & Justin this episode to talk about his new line and how their friendship has grown and evolved over the years. #FridayJoint : DJ Harrison - Be Better & Masego - Favorite Tings

This Is The Thing Ep. 128 - "I Know It Ain't Who I Think It Is"

November 30, 2021 19:57 - 36 minutes - 33.8 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin give a Thanksgiving recap. Nick also talks about why the holidays don’t hit the same as a single man. They also talk about what they think the holidays will look like for them in the future. In the #SportsBag , the discuss Will Smith new movie, King Richard. Justin gives his hot take on the flick 👀

This Is The Thing Ep. 127 - "Gold All In My Chain"

November 23, 2021 17:02 - 38 minutes - 35.3 MB

The homie Glenn Marshall stops by to give us a great story about an awkward phone number exchange, black trauma and what he’s thankful for. #FridayJoint: KAYTRANADA ft. Mach-Hommy - $payforhaiti

This Is The Thing Ep. 126 - "Celebration"

November 17, 2021 21:53 - 38 minutes - 35.6 MB

On this episode, Nick & Justin toast it up in honor of Justin’s birthday. It leads to a deeper conversation about how it can difficult for black men to celebrate milestones and often small victories. In the #SportsBag , they talk about Cam Newton’s comeback and trajectory of his career. #FridayJoint : David Sabastian, Limage - Heaven or Hell

This Is The Thing Ep. 125 - "Protect Your Mental"

November 10, 2021 21:41 - 44 minutes - 40.7 MB

November is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month. On this episode, Nick & Justin have a honest conversation about prioritizing their mental health. They also talk about ways they are protecting it and the stigmas surrounding mental health. In the #SportsBag , they talk about the realization of their favorite teams disappointing them. Which sometimes means taking a step back from rooting for them.

This Is The Thing Ep. 124 - "Settling"

November 03, 2021 19:15 - 51 minutes - 47 MB

On this latest show, Nick & Justin talk about settling when it comes to relationships. As men, do we settle for love/passion or for what’s comfortable? 🤔

This Is The Thing Ep. 123 - "Reel Connections"

October 20, 2021 16:04 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MB

Rilwan Balogun stops by the podcast to talk about the Reel Connections with Ril podcast and his motivation to start it. The trio also breaks down “hood classics” in TV & film 👀👀 #FridayJoint : Mac Miller - Diablo

This Is The Thing Ep. 122 - "The Shady Pod"

October 12, 2021 12:23 - 55 minutes - 50.6 MB

Singer/Songwriter J.Nicole talks with Nick & Justin about her musical journey, R&B, her songwriting process, why Justin was “too nice” 😂 plus more! #FridayJoint : Masego, Big Boi, JID - Garden Party Also, check out: Aaria ft. YFN Lucci - My Way

This Is The Thing Ep. 121 - "Bigger And Better"

October 06, 2021 14:16 - 49 minutes - 45.4 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin discuss knowing when it’s time to move on. Either with your career or relationships. Nick also talks about why he always listens to his gut and not his heart. In the #SportsBag , the two discuss their biggest takeaways from Week 4 of the NFL season & why it’s always a good idea to remove the “we” when talking about your favorite team 😅 #FridayJoint : Dom Kennedy - Rollin' Papers

This Is The Thing Ep. 120 - "I Feel Like"

September 28, 2021 13:26 - 40 minutes - 37.3 MB

After a couple of weeks off, Nick & Justin catch up with each other. They also discuss everything from why Nick isn’t sold on CLB to Justin now being a “reformed debater.” 🤔 #FridayJoint : Nao - Burn Out

This Is The Thing Ep. 119 - "Hanging With Ms. Cooper"

September 08, 2021 19:02 - 49 minutes - 45.7 MB

Nick & Justin are joined on this episode by their good friend, Blair. The trio discuss gender roles and the insecurities about not living up to them. #FridayJoint : Pell, Tonina Saputo - Waves

This Is The Thing Ep. 118 - "Certified Candyman"

September 01, 2021 20:48 - 1 hour - 56.3 MB

The homie, Brad Gray stops by the podcast again to breakdown his review of Candyman. Nick, Justin and Brad also discuss everything from Kanye & Drake to how black men cope with being “tried.” #FridayJoint : Reggie Becton - So High

This Is The Thing Ep. 117 - "Bygones Be Bygones"

August 24, 2021 22:05 - 49 minutes - 45.7 MB

Nick & Justin discuss letting bygones be bygones. They talk about addressing issues from the past situations/relationships and finding closure. In the #SportsBag , they discuss the times they thought they were going to lose the game before the game even started 😂 #FridayJoint : dvsn, Ty Dolla Sign - Don't Say A Word

This Is The Thing Ep. 116 - "IYKYK"

August 17, 2021 12:57 - 53 minutes - 48.8 MB

Nick & Justin take a trip down memory lane and talk about the first day of school vibes growing up. From 2XL white tees to the sweater vests 🥴 They also talk about the transition from HS to college. #SportsBag , they breakdown week 1 of the NFL preseason and if we put too much stock into the performances? #FridayJoint : Jvck James - No Drama

This Is The Thing Ep. 115 - "Some Type Of Way"

August 10, 2021 23:42 - 39 minutes - 36.4 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin talk about the "statue of limitations" of getting over an ex/someone they've dated. How long did it take for them to feel unbothered over something as simple as seeing them post on IG? Nick & Justin break down real life situations. In the #SportsBag, they talk about the moments their teams broke their hearts. Leaving Nick in tears! #FridayJoint : India Shawn - Don't Play With My Heart

This Is The Thing Ep. 114 - "Late Registration"

August 03, 2021 12:37 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MB

Chicago based journalist, Glenn Marshall, joins Nick & Justin in a discussion surrounding Black Men showing affection. They talk about what that looked like for them growing up and what affection for them looks like now. They also discuss how they plan to incorporate it one day if they have sons. #FridayJoint : Isaiah Rashad - RIP Young

This Is The Thing Ep. 113 - "Watch Your Grace"

July 27, 2021 21:16 - 55 minutes - 50.8 MB

Nick & Justin discuss giving grace to others. They both open about situations where they’ve had to mend friendships after trust was broken. The two also talk about how much emphasis they put on morals and if they think society still values it. In the #SportsBag , Nick & JP share stories about the time they ran across the guys, either on the football field or basketball court, that they didn’t want smoke with 💨 🥴 #FridayJoint : Phabo - Palm Trees

This Is The Thing Ep. 112 - "Recovery Day"

July 20, 2021 22:46 - 52 minutes - 48.1 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin recap a weekend/reunion with friends. They talk about the highlights of the weekend and Nick’s OCD 😂 In the #SportsBag , talk about the moments in their sports careers that they thought they could “make it” & the times they knew this wasn’t it. #FridayJoint : Femme It Forward, Rapsody - Iconic

This Is The Thing Ep. 111 - "Therapizing"

July 14, 2021 20:00 - 52 minutes - 48.3 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin share their worst planned date stories. They also discuss the balance of “being there” for someone & being honest with them. In the #SportBag , they discuss Team USA Basketball and the plight of Black Head Coaches in the NBA. #FridayJoint : IDK ft. Young Thug - PradadaBang

This Is The Thing Ep. 110 - "Really Though?!"

July 06, 2021 12:39 - 49 minutes - 45.1 MB

Nick & Justin are back after a week off! On this latest episode, Nick breaks down how his vacation went. The guys also talk about the pressure of marriage from a man’s perspective…after Nick faced some little heat while on vacation 🥴 In the #SportsBag , the two give their early NBA Finals predictions & pose an interesting trade scenario for Ben Simmons. #FridayJoint : NJOMZA ft. Ari Lennox - Tidal Wave

This Is The Thing Ep. 109 - "PodFathers"

June 22, 2021 12:50 - 47 minutes - 43.9 MB

On episode 109, Nick & Justin talk about the complex relationships they’ve had with their fathers. They talk about the impact men, like Nick’s stepdad & Justin’s grandfather, have had on their lives. The two also discuss what fatherhood looks like for them down the road. In the #SportsBag , they breakdown the latest on the NBA playoffs. Is it time for the 76ers to get rid of Ben Simmons? Also, can one superstar lead a team by himself? #FridayJoint : Emmavie - Uh Huh Okay

This Is The Thing Ep. 108 - "Pod Gods"

June 15, 2021 12:16 - 50 minutes - 46.2 MB

On this episode, Nick & Justin talk about some of the anxiety they have now the world is essentially "reopening." They also discuss how life is changing for them. In the #SportsBag , the breakdown Chris Paul's performance and if Julio Jones can still be an elite receiver. #FridayJoint : Emotional Oranges ft. Vince Staples - Back & Forth

This Is The Thing Ep. 107 - "The Good Person"

June 08, 2021 22:11 - 53 minutes - 49 MB

On this latest episode, TV Journalist/Author/Content Creator Shay Simon joins Nick & Justin to break down how they juggle work and their personal lives. They also discuss when they know they've found their "person." #FridayJoint : Wiz Kid ft. Tem - Essence

This Is The Thing Ep. 106 - "Shake The Room"

May 25, 2021 12:40 - 1 hour - 56.1 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin talk code switching. Either at work or in their every day lives...at what point does it takes away from them being authentic? In the #SportsBag , they breakdown the good, the bad & the ugly from the first games of the NBA playoffs. Plus, where will Julio Jones go? 🧐 #FridayJoint : Alex Mali - Addicted

This Is The Thing Ep. 105 - "Toxic Chris"

May 18, 2021 13:18 - 49 minutes - 45.3 MB

Our guy Chris Ruffin joins Nick & Justin to discuss if friends (or family) and business mix? Nick & JP talk about their past issues. Also, Chris explains why he decided to end his podcast recently. #FridayJoint : Jorja Smith ft. ShayBo - Bussdown

This Is The Thing Ep. 104 - "Trust Issues"

May 11, 2021 12:50 - 1 hour - 59.5 MB

On episode 104, Nick & Justin discuss infidelity. They talk about their personal experiences and how it affected them moving forward? In the #SportsBag , ahead of Kobe Bryant’s induction into the Hall of the Fame they share their favorite Kobe moments. They also breakdown the current NBA playoff picture. #FridayJoint : Amber Mark - Worth It

This Is The Thing Ep. 103 - "Haters"

May 04, 2021 12:08 - 52 minutes - 48.3 MB

On this episode, Nick & Justin talk about what they (that can perceived to be) “hate” on 😳😳😳 In the #SportsBag , they discuss where Aaron Rodgers could land next season and break down the winners/losers of the NFL Draft. #FridayJoint : Shelley FKA DRAM - Something About Us

This Is The Thing Ep. 102 - "Blocked Vices"

April 27, 2021 12:13 - 52 minutes - 47.9 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin continue a discussion from the last episode about being blocked. They also have an honest conversation about vices they’ve had to give up. In the #SportsBag , they list their 3 potential busts from this year’s NFL draft & breakdown the Julio Jones trade rumors. #FridayJoint : Cordae - Dream in Color

This Is The Thing Ep. 101 - "Authenticity"

April 20, 2021 22:14 - 48 minutes - 44.7 MB

Nick opens up about his first therapy session. Which got Nick & Justin to discuss if they are being their authentic selves? Specifically at work, in uncomfortable situations, around family and friends. In the #Sportsbag , with the news of Julian Edelman retiring...Is he a HOFer? 🤔 The fellas discuss who they think straddles the fence of being a HOFer if they retired today.

This Is The Thing Ep. 100 - "Safe Space"

April 13, 2021 12:33 - 1 hour - 56.5 MB

Atlanta based Sports Anchor/Reporter, Alex Glaze, joins us for our 100th episode! 🎉 Nick, Justin and Alex discuss the concept of men having a “fairytale” life (i.e. marriage, career, kids, etc.). In the #Sportsbag , they breakdown some of the most annoying storylines coming out of the NFL draft build up? They also discuss Tennessee St. University hiring Eddie George as its Head Football Coach 🏈 AND what this could mean for HBCUs. #FridayJoint : Freddie Gibbs - Big Boss Rabbit

This Is The Thing Ep. 99 - "Underrated R&B Talent"

April 06, 2021 12:21 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MB

On episode 99, Nick & Justin discuss if they had to change their careers what they would do you do and how it would change their life trajectory? #FridayJoint :Terrace Martin ft. Nick Grant - Can’t Let You Go

This Is The Thing Ep. 98 - "Being Intentional"

March 30, 2021 16:30 - 58 minutes - 53.9 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin talk about what they are being intentional about it life and what they want to be more intentional about. In the #SportsBag , they reveal their NFL Mock Draft picks. Also, Are the Nets doing too much or are they cementing their spot as a championship squad? #FridayJoint : JID ft. Denzel Curry - Bruuuh (Remix)

This Is The Thing Ep. 97 - "Meet The Family"

March 23, 2021 14:30 - 59 minutes - 54.7 MB

On this latest episode, @nick_sturdivant & @jpar4 talk about when they felt like it was the right time to introduce a woman to their family and vice versa. They share stories about different experiences and what it’s like to embrace families with different cultures and backgrounds. In the #SportsBag , they break down March Madness so far & put themselves in the shoes of a NFL GM. Build through the draft or through free agency? 🤔 #FridayJoint : Trap Manny - Vroom Vroom

This Is The Thing Ep. 96 - "And They Say Chi City"

March 16, 2021 14:16 - 45 minutes - 41.9 MB

On episode 96, film critic Brad Gray, @oldmangray, joins us from Chicago to break down the latest movies and tv series. You don’t want to miss this one!

This Is The Thing Ep. 95 - "Growth"

March 09, 2021 15:22 - 50 minutes - 46.5 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin are joined by their good friend & creator/host of @ideservenicethings podcast Patrice Clarke. They discuss what has changed in their lives almost 1 year into the pandemic. They also talk about the toughest thing they’ve had to move on from and what brings them a sense of peace now? #FridayJoint : Denzel Curry ft. Kenny Beats - Lay Up

This Is The Thing Ep. 94 - "I Call You Son Because You Shine Like One"

March 02, 2021 15:01 - 1 hour - 58.5 MB

On this latest episode, Nick & Justin discuss and share stories of some things they would do differently in life if they could go back and do it again. They also talk about how they learned from it all. In the #SportsBag , they discuss if Dak & Russell Wilson are being disrespected and which QB from this year’s draft class is the next “guy.” #FridayJoint : MoneyBagg Yo - Time Today

This Is The Thing Ep. 93 - "Untold Black Stories"

February 23, 2021 15:09 - 1 hour - 59.7 MB

On episode 93, in light of the release of Judas and the Black Messiah, Nick & Justin discuss black stories that they would like to see told. In the #SportsBag , they talk about the viral exchange between Cam Newton and a teen at his football camp and if Deshaun Watson could automatically make the Panthers a contender or playoff team. #FridayJoint : LAVA LA RUE - Magpie

This Is The Thing Ep. 92 - "Generation Changer"

February 16, 2021 15:17 - 58 minutes - 53.9 MB

On this latest episode, we chop it up with TV News Producer, co-host of MasterMind Podcast and creator/host of Scoop of News, Chris Ruffin. He talks about life in news & as a content creator and how he found his purpose in life. #FridayJoint : PinkSweat$ - Pink Money

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