Episodes

Sunday Mar 16, 2025
Sunday Mar 16, 2025
Welcome to another inspiring episode of "In the Fries," celebrating Women’s History Month with a special guest, Marci, an accomplished Liberian artist. Join us as Marci shares her unique journey from drawing inspirations at a young age to finding her passion in painting and creating impactful art pieces that resonate with her Liberian heritage.
In this episode, Marci discusses the influence of family, culture, and personal experiences in shaping her artistic path. With humor and candidness, she talks about overcoming challenges, finding balance as a mother, and building a career in art despite societal expectations.
Marcy also highlights the importance of staying true to oneself in the art world, the role of social media in connecting and promoting her work, and how support from her Liberian community and family have played key roles in her success. This episode is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of pursuing one’s passions.

Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Welcome to a special episode of "In the Fries," where we celebrate Women's International Day with a takeover by the ladies, featuring a remarkable guest, Mary Love. Mary is a Liberian comedian, entrepreneur, and devoted mother who shares her journey from facing personal challenges to building a thriving platform.
In this episode, recorded on International Women's Day, we dive into Mary's multifaceted life as she candidly discusses the ups and downs of being a comedian in the Liberian community, her path to self-discovery, and the importance of self-belief. Mary also sheds light on the impact of generational trauma, exploring how it shapes relationships with mothers and the humor that bridges these gaps.
Join us as we get personal with Mary Love, celebrate the resilience and achievements of Liberian women, and explore the power of storytelling in comedy. This episode is a tribute to the strength and grace of women who embrace their many roles and break boundaries with laughter and love.

Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Join us for an engaging episode as we dive into the dynamic world of Liberian music with special guest DJ Shine. Known as Chocolate Drop, Shine brings a vibrant energy to the scene, sharing insights from his journey in the music industry. From the rise of diss tracks to the art of promotion, this episode highlights the trials and triumphs faced by Liberian artists and DJs. Discover the influences that shaped Sean's career, the significance of collaboration, and the challenges of breaking into new markets like Atlanta. With discussions on the role of DJs in promoting local culture and the importance of hustle and determination, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and cultural expression.
DJ Shine shares his personal story, detailing his transformation from a basketball player to a celebrated DJ, and the pivotal moments that solidified his commitment to his passion. Get an insider's view on how the music industry operates in Liberia and beyond, and learn about the strategies used to elevate the presence of Liberian music on the global stage. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a music enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's roots.

Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
In this episode, we dive into the heart of Liberian culture and identity with our guest, Aries Adriano, also known as Stephen Cooper. Together, we explore the essence of the "No Spider Story" mantra, a powerful message advocating for a focused, drama-free path in life, while promoting the richness of the Liberian story through fashion.
Our conversation traverses through the cultural landscapes of Liberia, Ghana, and the U.S., revealing how these experiences shape Liberian entrepreneurship, community, and mindset. Aries shares his journey from Liberia through his varied experiences, including his military service and his drive to amplify the Liberian brand globally.
We delve into the importance of community support, the challenges of promoting Liberian culture abroad, and the necessity of empowering the diaspora to contribute effectively to their home country. Join us as we uncover the layers of Liberian identity and the relentless hustle that defines its people.

Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Join us for an insightful discussion on love, relationships, and self-discovery in this episode of 'The Love Episode.' As our hosts delve into the complexities of love, they emphasize the importance of self-love as the foundation for all relationships. Discover various perspectives on what love means, highlighting how understanding and respect play key roles in nurturing healthy connections.
Explore how society influences our perception of love and relationships, with reflections on personal experiences and family influences. Our hosts break down the significance of knowing one's love language and how it can transform every relationship in your life. Learn why setting standards for how you want to be treated can lead to more fulfilling and genuine interactions.
The episode also touches on cultural nuances and generational shifts in how love is expressed, urging listeners to communicate openly and break away from traditional constraints. By loving yourself and teaching those around you to do the same, you can foster a more positive and supportive environment where personal growth and mutual respect thrive.

Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
In this episode of "In The Fries," this episode sheds light on pressing socio-political issues, discussing the impact of Trump's immigration policies on the Liberian community in America. We explore the emotional and economic ramifications of deportations, providing a forum to discuss reintegration support for returnees and their challenges in Liberia. We also touch on Rapper Buck Raw situation of deportation and also Maryland Most Wanted Sheikh Kante connection to more than 7 million dollar BEC scheme.
Join the engaging conversation that seeks to offer insights and potential solutions, as we aim to promote understanding and empathy between communities divided by borders but united by shared human experiences.

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Welcome to an insightful discussion about Liberia, where we explore the economic boost experienced during the holidays, particularly when people return home. We delve into how tourism and inflation impact the local economy and share intriguing stories about visiting family, highlighting the challenges some face in making it back home.
The episode also touches upon the role of entertainment media, like Spoon TV, in shaping conversations during festive seasons. We shed light on social issues, including drug and sex problems among the Zogos, a term unfamiliar to some, underscoring the need for education and awareness.
Join us as we discuss Liberia's rich cultural landscape, from the vibrant economy to the challenges posed by road connectivity, and dream about new possibilities like connecting to the Southeast. This episode is packed with lively debates and passionate exchanges, capturing the essence of Liberia's potential and the determination needed to achieve it.

Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Welcome back to In The Fries, hosted by Smitty Stokes along with J-Biz and Nabil. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing rise of 'Red Note', China's version of TikTok, and explore whether TikTok's reign is at risk.We then shift the discussion to Liberia's shocking Capitol fire. Could it be an inside job? We unpack the conspiracy theories surrounding the incident and the possible implications for the country's leadership.On a brighter note, we celebrate the appointment of a new president at the University of Liberia, who is paving a new path for education in the country. We look into her background and what her leadership might signify for the future. This episode promises a mix of controversy, cultural insight, and forward-looking discussions.

Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of 'In the Fries', where we untangle the origins and traditions of Christmas. As the hosts gather to celebrate the festive spirit of the season, they delve into a discussion questioning the true meaning of December 25th. Discover the historical background of Christmas, its ties to pagan holidays, and the various perspectives shared by the hosts, including why one of them chooses not to celebrate it. Along with debates and reflections on cultural traditions, the hosts also share personal stories and joyous memories of the holiday season. Join the conversation and explore how people from different backgrounds perceive and celebrate Christmas today.

Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Join the engaging discussion as our hosts delve into the complexities of relationships within the Liberian community. The episode kicks off with a spirited debate on gender roles, highlighting differing perspectives on men's and women's responsibilities in modern partnerships. From the influence of traditional beliefs to the quest for gender equality, the conversation sheds light on how these dynamics shape relationships.The dialogue further explores why Liberian men may place less value on marriage compared to other African men, raising questions about cultural influences and societal expectations. The conversation steers towards the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with familial duties, offering listeners a deep dive into the aspirations and hesitations faced by individuals in contemporary relationships.Throughout the episode, the theme of partnership versus individualism emerges repeatedly, prompting a candid examination of how education, personal growth, and societal pressures affect relational decisions. With personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how love, responsibility, and societal norms intertwine in the journey towards forming lasting partnerships.