Shows
The Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsKIRRESHA & TYSON | "BRING IT ON" Reunion | Gary L. Gray | Tokens Podcast | Season Finale: Part 2Gary L. Gray sat down with Giovonnie Samuels (The Tokens Podcast) for a powerful, unfiltered career retrospective! From his first iconic role as Nelson Tibideaux on The Cosby Show at age 3, to voicing cultural icons like Sam "The Squid" Dullard on Rocket Power and the Black Genius, A.J. on The Fairly OddParents, Gary discusses the pressure of being the "token" in every major TV era.He opens up about being typecast as the "Black Nerd," losing his agent over choosing independent, progressive work like *Noah's Arc* and *Blackbird*, and how he found his current creative freedom through screenwriting...
2025-10-0746 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsKIRRESHA & JESSE: A "BRING IT ON " Reunion | Gustavo Carr | Tokens Podcast | Season Finale: Part 1🤸‍♀️ The Crenshaw Heights Warriors Are Back! 🏆It's the reunion we've all been waiting for! We sat down with two stars of the iconic cheer movie Bring It On: All or Nothing—Gustavo Carr (Jesse) and Giovonnie Samuels (Kirresha)!Gustavo and Giovonnie catch up all these years later to reminisce about their time on the set of the 2006 cheerleader classic. They spill the tea on the intense cheer choreography, working alongside Hayden Panettiere and Solange Knowles, and what it was really like being a Crenshaw Heights Warrior!In this candid conversation, we discuss: -Behind-the-scenes stories from the Bring It On set. -Gusta...
2025-09-3055 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsMUSHMOUTH SPEAKS! Jermaine Williams On Fat Albert, Disney, Stomp The Yard & More | The Tokens PodcastIn this exclusive conversation, we sit down with actor, producer, and dancer Jermaine Williams to take a deep dive into his incredible career journey. From his breakout role as Mushmouth in the cult classic film Fat Albert to his unforgettable dance moves as Noel in Stomp the Yard, Jermaine gets candid about his experiences in Hollywood.He reflects on his early days on the hit Disney Channel show The Jersey and shares what it was like working on projects like the psychological thriller Ratched. We explore the challenges and triumphs of a multi-faceted career, and Jermaine offers behind-the-scenes stories...
2025-09-2350 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsMAESTRO: All My Friends Want To Be ISSA RAE But They Won’t Do THISActor and musician Maestro Harrell sits down with Giovonnie Samuels to get real about the entertainment industry. From his breakout role as Randy on HBO's The Wire to his successful career as an EDM producer (M A E S T R O), Harrell opens up about the crucial moments that shaped his path.They discuss why so many aspiring creatives want to follow in the footsteps of multi-hyphenate mogul Issa Rae, but aren't willing to do the hard work it takes to build an empire on their own terms. This episode is a raw look into what...
2025-09-1643 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsChester Gregory: Broadway, Hollywood & Making His Own Rules | The Tokens PodcastGiovonnie sits down with Broadway star and Hollywood veteran, Chester Gregory. In this in-depth conversation, Chester shares his incredible journey, from his roots in Gary, Indiana, to becoming one of the most respected performers in entertainment.Chester Gregory is an icon of the stage, known for his dynamic portrayal of legendary singer Jackie Wilson, a role that earned him widespread acclaim. He made his unforgettable Broadway debut as the beloved character Seaweed in the smash-hit musical Hairspray.Chester and Giovonnie discuss the unique path he's forged in the industry on his own terms. Learn about his experiences starring in...
2025-09-0946 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsThe Kind Of Agent I Needed When I Was On Kids’ TV | The Tokens PodcastFrom being a young star on Nickelodeon and Disney to navigating the industry as an adult, I'm sitting down with my agent to discuss the real journey. We talk about how the industry has changed since the early 2000s. We also get real about her journey as the only Black, female agent in her office and the challenges that come with that reality.--Liked this video? Don't forget to give it a thumbs up, subscribe to our channel for more exclusive celebrity interviews, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!--Thanks to our sponsors at Ultimate-Wireless...
2025-09-0244 min
Too Good to be DrewFinding Purpose & Power Through Adversity w/ Melissa L. Atkinson | Ep 043Ask a question for the showOn this episode, we tap in with Melissa L. Atkinson. I ran across Melissa on Threads with the simple notion of her wanting to sit on the other side of the table as an interviewee. I checked out her podcast and on the first episode, I had to stop and see what episode I was on. She gave out so much of her life experience in the very first episode I knew this was a person that was perfect to have on the show.Enjoy this episode as we...
2025-08-201h 07The Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsNED'S DECLASSIFIED'S Daniel Curtis Lee on Podcasting His Own Path Through HollywoodIn this wide-ranging conversation, Daniel Curtis Lee (Ned's Declassified, Zeke & Luther) opens up about his journey from a child star on Nickelodeon and Disney to a working actor in Hollywood. We dive into the behind-the-scenes stories of his most iconic roles, including his time as Cookie, Kojo, and his work producing the Ned's Declassified podcast. Daniel also shares insights on his transition into music and directing, offering a unique perspective on the entertainment industry.--Thanks to our sponsors at Ultimate-Wireless.com, the premiere eCommerce website for everything from phone cases to Nintendo Switches. Use code THETOKENS at checkout for...
2025-08-1948 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsSOUL FOOD’s Brandon Hammond on THAT MEME, His Soul Food Reunion Doc & MoreThanks to our sponsors at Ultimate-Wireless.com, the premiere eCommerce website for everything from phone cases to Nintendo Switches. Use code THETOKENS at checkout for up to 25% of your entire order.--In this episode, Giovonnie Samuels sits down with former child actor and filmmaker Brandon Hammond for a raw, nostalgic, and emotional conversation. For fans who grew up watching 90s classics like Soul Food, Space Jam, and Waiting To Exhale, this is a must-listen.Giovonnie and Brandon dive into the unique world of child stardom, exploring the triumphs and tribulations of growing up in the Hollywood spotlight. In a...
2025-08-1250 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsSpanish on U.S. TV: Marco Martinez's Groundbreaking LegacyMarco Martinez is a trailblazer in television history. Marco shares his groundbreaking and often challenging experiences as the **first Afro-Latino to speak Spanish on U.S. television** during his time on the beloved PBS series, *Villa Alegre*.This episode offers an unprecedented look into what it meant to be a "token" in the earliest days of diverse representation on American screens. Marco unpacks the unique pressures and responsibilities he faced, providing a crucial, firsthand account that resonates deeply with the ongoing discussions sparked by documentaries like "Quiet on Set."Join Giovonnie and Marco as they delve into the nuances...
2025-08-0450 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsZOMBIES' Carla Jeffery Gets Real About Being The Black Girl on a Disney SetIn this powerful episode of The Tokens Podcast, host Giovonnie Samuels sits down with actress and longtime friend Carla Jeffery, best known for her role as Bree in Disney's Zombies franchise. Carla gets incredibly real and candid about her personal experiences being "the Black girl" on a Disney set.She shares the often-unseen truths of navigating the entertainment industry as "the only one," diving deep into what it truly feels like to carry that unique responsibility. This conversation extends the vital dialogue sparked by documentaries like "Quiet on Set," exploring the nuances of representation...
2025-08-0444 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsThe Quiet on Set Conversation Continues: Where We're GoingDive into the heart of "The Tokens Podcast" as co- creator and host Giovonnie Samuels shares the powerful story behind its launch. Known for her own experiences as "the token Black girl" on sets like *All That* and *The Suite Life of Zack & Cody*, Giovonnie reveals her deeply personal motivation for starting this essential new series.Discover how Giovonnie is continuing the critical conversation sparked by documentaries such as "Quiet on Set," aiming to uncover untold stories and bring to light the microaggressions, pay disparities, and stereotypical portrayals that persist within the entertainment industry.She discusses her...
2025-08-0409 min
She Said It FirstHappy 4th of July from She Said It First | Episode 59It is 4th of July and Jerrilyn Lake aka Indeskribeabull and Lynee’ Monae are off for the holiday. But listen to some of the best moments of the She Said it First Podcast.  Lynee’ and Jerrilyn also talk about Shiloh Hendrix, a white Rochester, NY woman, who called a 5-year-old black boy with autism the N-word. Hendrix said she started getting death threats and must move so now she has raised over a half a million dollars through crowd funding. But a black woman in tech made sure she cannot get that money. Jerrilyn and Lynee’...
2025-07-0344 min
She Said It FirstAuntie Cougar or Thundercat | Episode 58This week on The She Said It First Podcast, Jerrilyn Lake aka Indeskribeabull and Lynee’ Monae discusses various topics, but before they get into that, they tell the fans What Irritated Them this week. Today’s episode is special because there is a special guest, actress and content creator Givonnie Samuels joins Jerrilyn and Lynee’ on the She Said It First Podcast. Before getting into their discussion, the women talk about a variety of topics.  Jerrilyn and Lynee’, along with Giovonnie Samuels, speak about clubbing in your thirties. Do you still go to the club and if you do, w...
2025-06-2649 minThe Tokens Podcast with Giovonnie SamuelsTRAILER: The Tokens Podcast With Giovonnie SamuelsWelcome to The Tokens Podcast, where Giovonnie Samuels (All That, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody) unpacks the unique experience of being "the only one" in Hollywood. Through intimate, fun conversations with fellow Tokens, she explores the triumphs and challenges of tokenism in entertainment—across race, gender, and identity. Join Giovonnie for honest, empowering dialogue that sparks change. New episodes drop August 4th, so subscribe for untold stories and fresh perspectives!--Transcript:Guys, after a year, it's finally here! The Tokens podcast. And here is the trailer! I can't wait for you gu...
2025-06-1901 min
Hard Wig, Soft Life PodcastDo It Differently: Letting Go, Starting Therapy, and Trusting Myself, For OnceHard Wig, Soft Life | Season 2, Episode 1: "Do It Differently: Letting Go, Starting Therapy, and Trusting Myself, For Once"After months of silence, podcast host Melissa L. Atkinson returns with raw vulnerability, sharing why she abandoned her podcast, what sparked her comeback, and the transformative experience that changed everything. This deeply personal solo episode explores burnout, pride, and the journey to asking for help.What You'll Discover:Why Melissa disappeared from podcasting and what really happened behind the scenesThe life-changing impact of attending Creators Escape in OrlandoHow meeting TV icon Giovonnie...
2025-04-3052 min
Everything's CanceledNickelodeon - Dan Schneider and Brian Peck - Part 1Send us a textFresh out the box! Stop, look, and watch... Ready yet? Get set... it's Everything's Canceled podcast! Your hosts Lorena and Herman are back to explore the intersection of nostalgia and trauma as we discuss recent allegations made against Dan Schneider, Brian Peck, and Nickelodeon in the Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV documentary series. You may not remember Dan Schneider, but if you're like us you remember watching Nickelodeon in the '90's and 2000's and you'll definitely remember the hit shows he wrote and produced including: All That (1994-2005...
2024-04-011h 23
We Wine Whenever's PodcastQuiet On The Set -Content Warning. ***This podcast discusses child sexual abuse.***Send us a textContent Warning. ***This podcast discusses child sexual abuse.***For over two decades, Dan Schneider was a prominent producer at Nickelodeon, overseeing shows like "All That" and "The Amanda Show." However, behind the scenes, a toxic and unsafe environment prevailed, with allegations of inappropriate behavior towards child actors surfacing. Former cast members, including Giovonnie Samuels and Alexa Nikolas, have spoken out about feeling uncomfortable and unsafe during their time on Schneider's shows. Schneider's creative decisions, such as introducing sexually suggestive characters and situations, pushed the boundaries of childhood entertainment, leaving...
2024-03-2858 min
The Perfect PodcastThe Perfect Podcast Ep 14- The Perfect Child Star
We take a seat with the one and only Giovonnie Samuels and dive into the real discussion of the writer's & actor's strike and how it affects life. We can look at someone on the big screen and think 'oh they have it all they're good,' but what we forget so easily is that they are people to and life happens to them as well. We also get the fabulous secret to looking 19 eve though you're a grown adult! We're positive that we all need the map to the fountain of youth and Giovonnie is here to give it...
2023-08-3033 min
Convos For The CultureGrowing Up Hollywood with Giovonnie Samuels | SZN 1 EP. 38Giovonnie Samuels stops in to discuss her career and future. You may have seen her on All That, Bring It On, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Freedom Writers, That's So Raven and more but today we are getting an inside look on what it's like growing up as a young black girl in Hollywood. Giovonnie talks about her interactions with Beyonce, Loretta Devine, Mario and others, the importance of treating celebrities like humans and how she remained grounded in an industry that often brings a lot of hurt and pain to child actors. This is an interview you...
2022-07-051h 23
The Multitasker PodcastI Too Am Italian...Overcoming Impasta SyndromeWe all have that annoying little voice that every now and then comes to pay us a visit and tells us all the reasons why we're not qualified to do the things that we're ALREADY DOING! While the reasoning behind this voice may be different from person to person, the reality is, at some point or another we've all come toe to toe with imposter syndrome. In Episode 05 of The Multitasker Podcast Actress Giovonnie Samuels (All That, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, That's So Raven, and more!) opens up about becoming a childhood star, finding herself, her experiences...
2022-05-031h 04
Prime Nostalgia PodcastAll That Relaunch CastWe're Talking To The Cast Of All That From Seasons 7 -10 Known As The Relaunch Era. We Talk With Lisa Foiles, Giovonnie Samuels, Jack DeSena, Christina Kirkman, & Bryan Hearne. The Cast Talks About Moments On Set & The Impact On Being On An Iconic Show. Follow The Cast! @LisaFoiles @Only1Giovonnie @Jackdesena @Christinakirkman @Lxvechauncey @Leeboytv & Follow Me @Kvngprimetime Follow The Podcast @PrimeNostalgiaPod #AllThat
2020-09-1140 min