Episode 12 | ATLiens & Activism: No Permission Needed

In this wide-ranging episode, Rich and Kevin take a sharp, unapologetic look at the power—and pitfalls—of protest. From Pepsi's DEI backpedal to the economic ripple effects of modern boycotts, the duo wrestles with whether change can still come from collective action. Through the lens of civil rights history, institutional mistrust, and community responsibility, they challenge listeners to step into leadership without waiting for permission. Candy talk, Kobe tribute fits, and spicy takes on Kroger vs. Whole Foods add levity to a heavy and important conversation.

Topics

📍 00:43 – Welcome to the Jersey Episode
Kobe jerseys, Braves gear, and sports banter set the tone as the hosts ease in before dropping the heavy hitters.

📍 06:48 – Why Kevin Stopped Drinking Pepsi
Pepsi’s quiet retreat from DEI commitments sparks a larger convo about corporate accountability and personal protest.

📍 10:11 – Boycotts That Hurt Black Businesses
They unpack how economic protest can unintentionally harm Black entrepreneurs, especially those in big box retailers like Target.

📍 14:55 – Legacy Lessons from the Civil Rights Movement
Rich and Kevin dive into the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Rosa Parks, and how those protests were structured to succeed—then ask why we haven’t done better since.

📍 27:52 – We Don’t Take Care of Our OGs
From Coretta to Rosa to modern leaders, the hosts call out how civil rights icons were left unsupported—then flip it to ask what younger generations should do differently.

🐍 Mamba Mentality Award

🏆 Kobe Bryant – For setting the standard of leadership without waiting for a handoff. Kobe didn’t wait for permission—he led. A model for all of us to stop waiting and start doing.