Welcome back to Mama We Made It! with Dj and Reg. Today, they get into the art and etiquette of summer gatherings, breaking down what defines a cookout, set, or barbecue in Black culture. The duo kick things off with some overdue recognition for legendary director Michael Schultz before diving into the real rules of the backyard: from how much it really costs to feed a crowd to why you should never show up empty-handed (unless the host insists).

Dj and Reg keep it honest about potluck pitfalls, what dishes should stay home (keep your raisins and store-bought cookies, please), and why food integrity—and vibes—matter more than ever.

The conversation goes beyond food as they talk dress codes (toes out or nah?), lineup for the grill, and the power of a well-crafted playlist. Etiquette around elders, prayer, and taking home plates gets a thoughtful, funny spin reflecting their own family traditions and experiences. By the end, Dj and Reg deliver a summer survival guide for anyone planning or attending a cookout, making sure everyone leaves full, happy, and with a few new rules to live by.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hRNUQbB1yyM

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, DJ and Reg! This week, they dive into the realities of "culture jacking" in corporate America, reflecting on their lived experiences as Black professionals navigating both personal and organizational spaces. They share stories of loss and renewal—starting with poignant tales about old trees in their neighborhoods—before drawing parallels to the ways Black culture is often appropriated and repackaged by brands and media. DJ spotlights data on Black media consumption and its impact on narrative control, while Reg unpacks the intricate relationship between branding, race, and authenticity in advertising.

Together, they challenge the ways non-Black creatives co-opt Black art and language, shaping perceptions and erasing origins—using vivid examples like the repurposing of hip-hop tracks in commercials and the rise of the "cool white boy/girl" in marketing circles. The hosts dig into their time at Nike (the "swoosh"), examining how real cultural insight and lived experience matter within corporate walls and weighing what's lost when those voices are sidelined. Through candid reflection, DJ and Reg celebrate the skills, leadership, and resilience forged in those demanding environments, offering listeners both cautionary tales and empowering lessons about self-definition, narrative ownership, and the importance of staying true to one's community.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/T4jqxcw6knE

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

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