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Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen’s Hour

Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen’s Hour

Written by: Card Holloway and Kelley
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Raw & Refined. Three lifelong friends, Greg, John, and Richard, have been building each other up since 1982. Now they bring that same brotherhood to the mic. Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen's Hour is a frank, wide-ranging conversation for middle-aged Black men navigating health, wealth, identity, and purpose in America. From hypertension and diabetes to fatherhood, financial literacy, and the weight of legacy, these Brothers go deep on the issues that matter most. No performance. No posturing. Just real talk from three men who have done the work and lived the life.Card, Holloway and Kelley Music Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Young Black Men are Dying by Suicide at Historic Rates: What is Happening to Our Sons?

    Young Black Men are Dying by Suicide at Historic Rates: What is Happening to Our Sons?
    Jul 25 2026
    For the first time in recorded U.S. history, young Black men between the ages of 16 and 29 are dying by suicide at higher rates than their white counterparts. This historic shift demands more than awareness—it demands action.
    In this powerful episode of Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen’s Hour, Rich, John, and Greg welcome Keon Lewis, a nationally recognized suicide prevention leader and member of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Chapter Leadership Council, for an honest conversation about one of the most urgent public health crises facing the Black community.
    Together, they examine the latest CDC data and explore the complex factors contributing to this alarming trend, including unresolved trauma, racism, emotional suppression, identity, social media, access to culturally competent mental health care, and the stigma that continues to prevent too many Black men from seeking help.
    John, an internal medicine physician, leads a thoughtful discussion with Keon on recognizing warning signs, supporting young men before they reach a crisis, and the critical roles families, mentors, churches, fraternities, educators, and communities play in creating hope and connection.
    This isn’t a conversation about statistics alone. It’s a conversation about our sons, brothers, nephews, students, and friends—and what each of us can do to help change the trajectory.
    Whether you’re a parent, mentor, healthcare professional, educator, faith leader, or someone looking to better understand the challenges facing young Black men today, this episode offers insight, compassion, and practical guidance.
    If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
    Raise a glass with us as we tackle another important conversation—because the truth is raw, but our delivery is refined.

    Thank you from Raw and Refined. Please like, comment, subscribe and share with men who might benefit from this episode or this podcast!

    You can check out the video of this episode on our YouTube channel.

    This episode is brought to you by Holver Travel
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    1 hr and 56 mins
  • The King v The Prince: The Story of Him

    The King v The Prince: The Story of Him
    Jun 29 2026
    Michael vs Prince: The Story of HimFew cultural debates have endured longer than the question: Michael Jackson or Prince?In this episode of Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen’s Hour, Rich, John, and Greg revisit one of the greatest rivalries in music history and examine the lasting impact of two artists who transformed popular culture. More than a comparison of hit records and album sales, this conversation explores what Michael Jackson and Prince represented to a generation of Black Americans coming of age during the 1980s and 1990s.From Thriller and Bad to 1999 and Purple Rain, the gentlemen discuss artistry, musicianship, performance, innovation, business ownership, cultural influence, and legacy. Was Michael the greatest entertainer of all time? Was Prince the ultimate musical genius? Why did so many fans feel compelled to choose a side? And how have our perspectives changed as we’ve gotten older?Along the way, the conversation touches on Black excellence, creativity, masculinity, identity, and the unique ways these two icons challenged expectations while inspiring millions around the world.Whether you were Team Michael, Team Prince, or simply loved them both, this episode is a thoughtful and nostalgic look at two legendary artists whose influence continues to shape music and culture today.Pour your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and join us for another raw truth conversation delivered with a refined perspective.

    Question of the Episode:
    If you could only keep one catalog for the rest of your life, would you choose Michael Jackson or Prince?

    Thank you from Raw and Refined. Please like, comment, subscribe and share with men who might benefit from this episode or this podcast!

    You can check out the video of this episode on our YouTube channel.

    This episode is brought to you by Holver Travel
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    1 hr and 58 mins
  • Check Your Circle: How to Spot a Frenemy - and Be a Better Friend

    Check Your Circle: How to Spot a Frenemy - and Be a Better Friend
    May 19 2026
    In this episode of Raw and Refined: The Gentlemen’s Hour, Rich, Greg, and John take an honest look at one of the most uncomfortable relationship dynamics adults face: the frenemy.
    Inspired by the thought-provoking article from The Atlantic, “How to Spot a Frenemy—and Be a Real Friend,” the fellas break down the difference between genuine friendship and relationships built on competition, jealousy, manipulation, and hidden resentment. From workplace politics and social circles to long-term friendships and personal insecurities, the conversation explores how frenemies can quietly impact our peace, confidence, health, and emotional well-being.
    The episode examines the three major types of frenemies—the competitive frenemy, the two-faced frenemy, and the manipulative frenemy—while also tackling the deeper and more difficult question: Have we ever been guilty of those same behaviors ourselves?
    This is a thoughtful, relatable, and reflective conversation about loyalty, trust, accountability, emotional maturity, and what true friendship looks like as Black men navigate life, leadership, family, career, and aging.
    If you’ve ever questioned someone’s intentions—or your own—this episode will challenge you to think differently about the people you keep close and the kind of friend you choose to be.

    This episode is brought to you by Holver Travel www.holvertravel.com

    Thank you from Raw and Refined. Please like, comment, subscribe and share with men who might benefit from this episode or this podcast!

    You can check out the video of this episode on our YouTube channel.

    This episode is brought to you by Holver Travel
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    59 mins
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