Built Not Bought Podcast
Built Not Bought Podcast is hosted by James Washington III and Darious Lawson. The show encourages listeners to stay the course and build from the ground up, focusing on personal and professional growth. It covers topics related to entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience.
Episodes
Ep. 40: “Yea, I’m Hatin’” | Kanye, Raven-Symoné & Lil Durk
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check before getting into a random thought that everybody has probably wrestled with at some point: when is hating actually warranted? From there, we get into Raven-Symoné and her relationship to Black identity over time. We also talk Kanye West’s recent concert run and whether these performances are actually changing anything about how h
Ep. 39: “Jail Cell Freestyles” | Lil Durk, Pooh Shiesty & AI Music
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check before getting into Russell Westbrook’s retirement and where his career ultimately lands in NBA history. We talk through the résumé, the records, the MVPs, the longevity, and whether Russ belongs in the top five point guards of all time. To close, we get into the growing conversation around AI and music after hearing Fenix Flexin’s
Ep. 38: “Anti-Black Antics” | Tuskegee Dress Code & GHOE Prices
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check and random thoughts before getting into Tuskegee University’s new dress code and the bigger conversation around HBCUs, student expression, professionalism, and respectability politics. Should HBCUs be setting stricter standards around how students dress, or does that cross the line into policing culture and individuality? From there
![Drake “ICEMAN” Review | Mid or Masterpiece? + HABIBTI & MAID OF HONOUR - [RE-UPLOAD]](https://d3t3ozftmdmh3i.cloudfront.net/staging/podcast_uploaded_nologo/43083966/43083966-1761406850186-160c830c07be8.jpg)
Drake “ICEMAN” Review | Mid or Masterpiece? + HABIBTI & MAID OF HONOUR - [RE-UPLOAD]
On this special release of Built Not Bought Podcast, we tap in for a full review of Drake’s ICEMAN, breaking down our first impressions, standout moments, replay value, and where the project sits within this chapter of Drake’s catalog. We also get into HABIBTI and MAID OF HONOUR, comparing the projects, talking through what connected, what missed, and what we may still need more time with. Is ICEM
![Ep. 36: "Done Having Fun" | Jaylen Brown, LeBron & Beyoncé - [RE-UPLOAD]](https://d3t3ozftmdmh3i.cloudfront.net/staging/podcast_uploaded_episode/43083966/43083966-1786805639098-ecda6d4619de8.jpg)
Ep. 36: "Done Having Fun" | Jaylen Brown, LeBron & Beyoncé - [RE-UPLOAD]
This week we get into one of our favorite kinds of episodes; where sports, music, and random conversations all collide. We kick things off with a Temp Check before asking whether a former friend can ever truly become your friend again. Is enough time enough, or do some relationships simply expire? From there, we break down the latest NBA storylines, including Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto,
Ep. 37: “The Real Me” | Jay-Z, Artist Rebrands & Future
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we recap Jay-Z’s three-day concert weekend, reflect on his performances, and discuss what may be coming next. Is another HOV album possible? Could a Super Bowl performance eventually be part of the plan? We also address what it means for an artist to rebrand. When is reinvention necessary, what separates genuine evolution from forced marketing, and what does
Ep. 35: "Restoring The Feeling" | NBA Draft, Giannis & TNE
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check and random thoughts before getting into the latest NBA conversations, including AJ going number one in the draft and Giannis heading to the Miami Heat. From there, we talk Key Glock, give flowers to his run, and take a moment to honor the late Tay Keith, whose production and influence left a major mark on hip-hop and Memphis music.
Ep. 34: "I Love Her But..." | Roots Picnic Recap, Jay-Z & Latto
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check before getting into a random thought that somehow always feels true: why does your mom’s side of the family and your dad’s side of the family always feel completely different? From there, we talk about Philly’s BYOB policy and whether a similar approach could ever make sense in the DMV. We also recap Roots Picnic, including Jay-Z’s
Ep. 33: “TikTok Therapists” | Cheyenne Bryant, Lizzo & TNE
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a temp check and a conversation around “good guy” friends before getting into a deeper random thought: does everyone have a little narcissism in them, or is narcissism something more specific? From there, we unpack the rise of therapy culture online, TikTok therapists, mental health advice as content, and the difference between real guidance and
Ep. 32: “Everyone’s Getting Scammed” | Chris Brown, End of Love & Hip Hop
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we talk about the end of Love & Hip Hop and what it means for reality TV. We also get into the Met Gala, why Cinco de Mayo has become such a big celebration, and a review of Chris Brown’s latest album; including the bigger debate around long tracklists and whether Chris Brown has a true classic in his catalog.Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Where cul
Ep. 31: “See That Gurlahhh” | Meg & Klay, Drake - Iceman, Michael Movie
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we get into the difference between doing things for yourself versus doing things for other people. From there, we talk through the “we do wanna hang with bad b****s” conversation, the Meg and Klay breakup, and the dilemma that comes with high-profile relationships playing out in public. We also tap into the Michael Jackson movie conversation, give our thought
Ep. 30: “Yall Going to Jail” | Offset, Pooh Shiesty & NBA MVP Race
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we start with a quick temp check before getting into a run of random questions that somehow turn into real conversations—from what fast food spots feel mid as you get older, to the eternal debates like pants or socks first, and the correct toothpaste-brush-water routine. From there, we break down the situation between Offset and Lil Tjay, along with the ongoi
Ep. 29: “Get A Job” | Jay-Z Interview, Druski & NBA Expansion
This week on Built Not Bought Podcast, we break down the latest in culture, music, and sports—from the recent Jay-Z interview to a the conversation around “broke energy”. We also take a moment to acknowledge Brandy receiving her Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and what her legacy means in today’s music industry. From there, we react to a viral Druski skit and also talk about the NBA officially approv
Ep. 28: "Keep Your Kids" | Jack Harlow, Bam Adebayo, Jay-Z
This week the on the pod, we talk about Jay-Z headlining Roots Picnic and his Yankee Stadium double header for Reasonable Doubt (30th) and The Blueprint (25th), Beyoncé Act III speculation, Jack Harlow’s new album, Bam Adebayo’s 83-point performance and much more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.co
Ep. 27: "Soldiers" | Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo, T.I. vs 50 Cent
This week the on the pod, we talk about the Harris Family versus 50 Cent, the BAFTA's debacle w/ Michael B. Jordan & Delroy Lindo and much more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4W
Ep. 26: "The Fall-Off" | J. Cole, Don Toliver, NBA Youngboy vs Future
This week the on the pod, we talk about a wide array of music releases from Jay IDK, Jill Scott to J. Cole & Don Toliver and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4WwqgnrBE487AFor mor
Ep. 25: "That Tree Bears Fruit" | BHM, Giannis, Belichick, Kendrick Lamar
This week the on the pod, we talk about Cam Newton, NFL HOF Snubs, NBA Trade Deadline, The Grammys and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4WwqgnrBE487AFor more of D's writings at &
Ep. 24: "Need A Lil Sum?" | Kai Cenat, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, J. Cole
This week the on the pod, we talk about Kai Cenat & IShowSpeed, J. Cole, NBA Youngboy and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4WwqgnrBE487AFor more of D's writings at "The
Ep. 23: "New Year, Same Pod" | NYE Goals, ATL Trip, Trae Young
Happy New Years! This week the on the pod, we talk about goals for 2026, our ATL trip for content and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4WwqgnrBE487AFor more of D's writings at &q
Built Not Bought Podcast | Best of 2025!
Enjoy our recap for 2025! We’re excited for 2026 and all the new content coming soon! Stay the course!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodListen to us on Spotify! :https://open.spotify.com/show/0n68eqSappfe9whNsuI6qC?si=ByBLzaeDR4WwqgnrBE487AFor more of D's writings at "
Ep. 21: "Cutting Ties" | Lil Baby, Terence Crawford, CP3 & Stephen A.
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Lil Baby's album release, Terence Crawford, Max Kellerman and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 20: "Nine Months Later" | Wale, Summer Walker, Denzel Washington
On today’s episode, the guys reflect on making it to 20 episodes, discuss Wale and Summer Walker album releases, and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpod
Ep. 19: "Control The Traffic" | Tom Brady, G Herbo, Michael Jackson
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Tom Brady, G Herbo's album release, Michael Jackson trailer release and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 18: "They Said I Changed"
Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 17: "Nothing Was The Same" | D'Angelo, Von Dutch and Drake Lawsuit
On today’s episode, the guys have a much anticipated and extensive Drake conversation following his lawsuit dismissal. Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 15: "Whoopty Doo" | Charlie Kirk, Young Thug and Lil Baby
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Charlie Kirk, Young Thug, YSL, Lil Baby and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 14: "Business is Business" | Vices, Young Thug and Terence Crawford
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Young Thug, YSL, Micah Parsons, the upcoming super fight and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 13: "Real Friends" | Spike Lee, Gunna & Micah Parsons
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Micah Parsons & Terry Mclaurin, Gunna, and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 12: "You Can't Dougie?" | Metro Boomin, NFL Free Agency & Gambling
On today’s episode, the guys discuss Metro Boomin's newest album "Futuristic Summa", Shannon Sharpe and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 11: "Back to The Program" | Clipse, Travis Scott & Justin Bieber
On today’s episode, the guys have a full slate of music, sports and cultural news to go through! From the Clispe to Shannon Sharpe. Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 10: "Something About Them N****s" | Diddy Verdict, Kobe Bryant & WNBA
On today’s episode, the guys discuss the Diddy verdict, Kobe Bryant's Legacy, NBA Free Agency and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 9: "As I Said Before"
Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 8: "Black Eminem" | Lil Wayne, Stefon Diggs and Zion
On today's episode, friend of the pod Reese joins the guys to discuss the Lil Wayne, Stefon Diggs, personal business ventures and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 7: "Little Man, Little Gun" | WNBA, Diddy, Tory Lanez and RGIII
On today's episode the guys discuss the Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, RGIII, Diddy, Tory and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 6: "Gyrating" | Met Gala, 100 N****s vs 1 Gorilla & Gregg Popovich
On today's episode the guys discuss the 2025 Met Gala, Gregg Popovich's retirement, the latest crazy social media scenario and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 5: "Just Some Liberated Sinners" | Sinners Review, NIL & Young Thug
On today's episode the guys discuss Ryan Coogler's newest original film "Sinners", problems with NIL, Young Thug's upcoming Album "UY SCUTI" and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver&q
Ep. 4: "Mainstream Moment" | Lil Durk Album, Regional Music & Mike Malone
On today's episode the guys discuss Lil Durk's "Deep Thoughts" Album, Mike Malone's firing, regional music and much more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeep
Ep. 3: "I Digress" | Playboi Carti Album, Kanye & NFL Rule Changes
On today’s episode the guys discuss Lil Durk's upcoming album release, Playboi Carti, Kanye, and much more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blkcryptkeeper
Ep. 2: "100 Mil" | Fridayy Album, Lebron vs Stephen A. & Aaron Rodgers
On today's episode they guys discuss the Fridayy Album, Meek Mill's reputation, Lil Baby Album update, Drake vs Kendrick Halftime Shows and more!Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@bl
Ep. 1 : " I Hate Introductions"
The first of anything is always the toughest! Listen in on the "who, what, when, where, why and how'" about this podcast in this episode. Welcome to Built Not Bought Podcast! Follow us at:IG: https://instagram.com/bnb.stcX: https://x.com/bnb_stcTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtnotboughtpodFor more of D's writings at "The Cultural Preserver":https://substack.com/@blk
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