Longtime sports commentator and television host Stephen A Smith was joined by Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkely during a late February edition of his podcast, “The Stephen A. Smith Show.” The two discussed sports-related topics, including Barkley’s dislike of San Antonio, before pivoting to politics. Barkley mentioned his CNN program with Gayle King, expressing his respect for King and his willingness to work with her despite not wanting to add to his workload. Barkley, who spends several months in Atlanta for work, commutes to New York City for his show “King Charles,” which is filmed there.
Barkley began discussing issues he noticed in New York City during his trips there to film his show. He talked about the lax border security and the presence of migrants who had been committing crimes and getting away with it. Smith and Barkley expressed concern over the state of affairs and discussed the upcoming presidential election, with Smith asking Barkley which candidate he would lean towards considering the nation’s history of inequality. Barkley emphasized the need for law and order, stating that addressing inequalities does not mean letting people commit crimes without consequences.
Smith’s podcast airs three times a week on YouTube, offering his unfiltered opinions on a range of topics beyond sports. The show’s description highlights Smith’s diverse interests and expertise in areas such as entertainment, pop culture, society, business, and politics. Smith, a former college basketball player, is also known for his work as an author, actor, NBA analyst, and host of ESPN’s “First Take.” Barkley, an 11-time NBA All-Star and former MVP, was featured on the podcast as a guest, sharing his insights on various topics with Smith.
The conversation between Smith and Barkley covered a wide range of subjects, from sports to politics, showcasing the depth of their knowledge and perspectives. Barkley’s experiences living and working in different cities, such as Atlanta and New York, provided him with unique insights into various issues affecting these communities. His observations about the challenges faced by New York City raised important questions about border security and law enforcement.
As two prominent figures in the sports and media industry, Smith and Barkley’s podcast highlighted the intersection of sports, politics, and society. Their candid discussions shed light on pressing issues such as inequality, law and order, and the upcoming presidential election. By sharing their thoughts and opinions on these topics, Smith and Barkley engaged their audience in critical conversations that transcend the world of sports.
Overall, the conversation between Smith and Barkley on “The Stephen A. Smith Show” was informative and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights into various topics of interest. Their discussion touched on current events, political issues, and societal challenges, demonstrating the importance of having open and honest conversations about these subjects. Through their podcast, Smith and Barkley continue to engage their audience in meaningful dialogue that goes beyond the world of sports.
