When Marzetta Douglas noticed her children could memorize every word of Cardi B but struggled with the seven continents, she knew something had to change. The mother of two created Hip Hop Boobly, a 3D animated series that transforms learning through music, and it's already taking the world by storm. In this episode, Marzetta reveals how her characters teach everything from math to anti-bullying through catchy songs and interactive "Boom Stars" that kids actually want to earn. She opens up about building an international production team, partnering with major influencers like the McClure Twins, and why representation in children's media matters more than ever. Co-host Christin Oliver shares her personal journey with her autistic son and how visual learning through music has changed their family dynamic. Plus, meet Boobly himself as he joins the conversation live in studio. Get ready to discover why parents everywhere are calling this the future of education.

In this episode of Up, Close & In Focus with host Cedric Ballard, Gospel legend Earnest Pugh faces the ultimate test as he tackles increasingly spicy wings while answering trivia questions about his 19-year journey with Blacksmoke Music. Between bites of fiery sauce, Pugh shares the story behind his five number one hits, starting with his breakthrough single "Rain On Us" that launched his record deal in 2007. The Blacksmoke veteran reveals his driving mantra that has sustained him through nearly two decades in gospel music: "In bad times, people need Good News." The heat intensifies during the 'Never Have I Ever' segment, where Pugh confesses to forgotten lyrics during worship and shares how his great-grandmother's prophecy shaped his global ministry vision. A Stellar Award Trivia and Grammy history questions, this game show edition tests both his gospel knowledge and spice tolerance. Pugh also discusses his latest album, available on all streaming platforms.

Connect with Earnest Pugh:

Website: earnestpugh.com

Instagram: @earnestpugh

Facebook: facebook.com/earnestpugh

Twitter/X: @earnestpugh

Gospel artist Jokia brings her baby Rain as backup while facing off against host Cedric Ballard in the spiciest game show edition of Black Smoke Table Talk yet. Between bites of increasingly fiery wings, Jokia shares her journey since entering the music industry in 2017, watching platforms evolve from Vine to TikTok and witnessing how streaming has transformed artist revenue. She explains why partnering with Black Smoke Records felt like the right move after years of independent hustle, and how she defines her music as inspirational love that speaks to both saved and unsaved audiences. The conversation heats up as both host and guest tackle gospel trivia questions about Black Smoke artists, stellar award records, and Hip Hop Boobly (where Jokia voices a character). Through laughs, tears from hot sauce, and "Never Have I Ever" confessions about forgotten lyrics and church mic dodging, Jokia reveals her moment of doubt about continuing music and how God redirected her from chasing industry accolades to focusing on ministry impact.

Connect with Jokia:

Instagram: @jokiamusic

YouTube: @jokiavevo2278

Facebook: Jokia