When most people think of movies set in Las Vegas, they picture the bright lights, casinos, and chaos of the Strip, not an action-packed thriller buried deep in the Nevada desert. But that’s exactly where filmmaker Mark D. Bonner takes us in his gripping new suspense film, Rear Desert. In the Season 9 finale of The Str8Up Show Podcast, we sit down with the award-winning filmmaker to discuss the creative journey behind Rear Desert , from the inspiration that sparked its intense storyline to the powerful themes that drive its emotional core. Mark opens up about what it takes to bring bold ideas to life on screen, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and how audiences are already responding to his work with high praise. Whether you’re a movie lover or an aspiring filmmaker, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and storytelling wisdom straight from one of the industry’s most passionate voices. Watch Rear Desert here: https://bit.ly/49kqO8m Follow Mark D. Bonner: Instagram – @RearDesert | @TheMindOfMFilms

America is facing deep political division. Republican vs. Democrat, Left vs. Right. But what will it truly take for us to come together as one nation again? On this episode, former California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto sits down with host and special guest co-host Joey for an honest conversation about America’s current political climate. From the challenges facing both major parties to the growing frustration among citizens, Mike shares his perspective on what’s fueling the divide and outlines practical steps everyday Americans can take to ensure their voices are heard by elected officials. Follow Mike Gatto: Website – www.mikegatto.com Twitter – @MikeGatto Follow Joey: TikTok – @joey_doesit

On this explosive episode of Str8Up, we host a live TikTok debate that dives into South Park’s most controversial episode yet, the one where they suggest Donald Trump made a deal with the devil. Trump supporters and critics go head-to-head as we unpack the satire, political commentary, and whether the show finally crossed a line. But that’s not all, we also break down a shocking new report involving Ghislaine Maxwell and the possibility of limited immunity in the ongoing fallout of the Jeffrey Epstein case.

With the recent changes to birthright citizenship, naturalized citizens now facing possible deportation, and the “big, beautiful bill” now passed, what’s next for immigration in America? After a powerful and eye-opening first appearance, immigration attorney Carla Casas returns to break down the latest developments surrounding mass deportation and reacts to ICE becoming one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the U.S. Abogada Casas also answers real immigration questions submitted by our viewers, offering valuable insights and must-know information for families and individuals navigating today’s immigration system. Follow Carla Casas: Instagram – @immigration.attorney.carla YouTube – @abogadacarlacasas TikTok – @abogadacarla Facebook – Casas Immigration Website – www.casasimmigration.com

June 11th and 12th, 2025, a night Las Vegas streamer Karlin Martinez will never forget. What began as a peaceful anti-ICE protest ended with flashing lights, handcuffs, and a viral TikTok Live that left viewers stunned. But what really happened that night? We sit down with Karlin’s attorney, Stephen Stubbs, who breaks down the shocking chain of events that could’ve landed the U.S.-born streamer in serious trouble with ICE. Stubbs also shares vital information about what rights you do and don’t have while attending protests in today’s America. Follow Karlin on TikTok: @itsmztoonz Follow Stephen Stubbs: Website: www.bowtiejustice.com YouTube: @StephenPStubbs Phone: (702) 759-3224

We dive into the Trump Administration’s renewed crackdown on undocumented immigrants. With ICE ramping up nationwide enforcement and families being torn apart, fear is rising and so are protests across the globe. Immigration Attorney Carla Casas joins us to unpack the chaos. She breaks down President Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, explains what they really mean for those living undocumented in the U.S., and shares crucial legal advice for those at risk. Carla also offers actionable ways for communities to stand up, speak out, and support those living under constant threat of detention. This is a must-listen episode that hits at the heart of justice, humanity, and the future of immigration in America. FOLLOW CARLA CASAS: Instagram – @immigration.attorney.carla YouTube – @AbogadaCarlaCasas TikTok – @abogadacarla Facebook – Casas Immigration Website – www.casasimmigration.com

Being a Black man in America isn’t just difficult, it’s a daily struggle often overlooked. But when life gets heavy, where can Black men turn? Where are the safe spaces that remind them they’re not alone? We sit down with Dr. Maurice Ball, community leader and life coach, for an honest conversation about the pressures Black men face, breaking generational trauma, and the importance of older Black men living with purpose to uplift future generations. This powerful discussion is one you don’t want to miss. FOLLOW DR. MAURICE BALL Instagram: @cmauriceball1 YouTube, TikTok, Facebook: @cmauriceball Podcast: Open For Discussion

If you’re a true music fan, you know the best songs are the ones that speak to your soul, and Las Vegas artist Kuttup is doing just that. On this electrifying episode of Music Monday, we sit down with Kuttup to uncover her journey into the music industry and what makes her style impossible to replicate. From her raw lyrics to her captivating stage presence, Kuttup is proving why she’s one of the realest voices in the game right now. And to top it off, she takes the stage to perform her hit single, “What It Comes To.” Follow Kuttup: Instagram: @itskuttup TikTok: @kuttupmusic Stream her music on all platforms: Kuttup

Is social media silently impacting your mental health? Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jamie Micco of The Concord Center joins us and breaks down how social media can influence your emotional well-being for better or worse. Tune in as Dr. Micco shares cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based strategies to help you manage screen time, reduce stress, and develop healthier online habits. Follow Dr. Micco & The Concord Center: Website: www.concordcbt.com Facebook: @TheConcordCenter Instagram: @TheConcordCenter LinkedIn: The Concord Center, LLC

It’s often said that we go through many tests so we can share powerful testimonies.On this Music Monday, we sit down with the incredibly talented gospel rapper Young Preach. He opens up about his troubled past, how it led him to God and music, and the biggest misconceptions about gospel rap. Then, Young Preach takes the stage to perform his anthem, “My Testimony.” FOLLOW YOUNG PREACH Facebook: @KennyPorterII YouTube: @YoungPreach1031 TikTok: @KennyP153

In our Season 9 premiere, we dive into one of the most polarizing issues in America today, immigration and mass deportations. With families being torn apart, we hear firsthand accounts from those directly impacted: Jaclyn, whose spouse is currently detained; Meg, whose father was deported during Trump’s last presidency; Kev, who once unknowingly lived undocumented; and Vanessa, who faces racism simply for being Latina. Their powerful stories shed light on the human side of immigration policies and the lasting effects on families and communities. Don’t miss this eye-opening and emotional episode. Follow Jaclyn – TikTok: @jaclynandjuan | Instagram: @jaclyntx_ Follow Kev – TikTok: @courtroomsixmayhem Follow Meg – TikTok: @ilovemeg.com Follow Vanessa – All platforms: @missvfromaz

In Part 1 of this 2 part episode, Erin Johnston, LPC-S of Healing Minds Counseling, discussed why so many are afraid to seek therapy. Erin returns to continue our groundbreaking conversation about why is much needed when going on your healing journey! Erin then gives tips to host, Calvin, about how he can overcome a previous toxic relationship. Healing Minds, LLC official website: https://www.healingmindsla.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1105799030695933

Why do most of us have Psychophobia or a fear of going to therapy? Are we scared to face our own truths or just afraid to acknowledge the trauma we keep pushing away? We talk to Erin Johnston, LPC-S of Healing Minds, LLC about the importance of therapy. Erin analyzes our previous episode, "The Mermaid Effect" and breaks down how therapy would have been beneficial in Calvin's toxic relationship. The 13 year licensed therapist then addresses some of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to therapy. Healing Minds, LLC official website: https://www.healingmindsla.com/ The Mermaid Effect episode: https://bit.ly/4brhKg3

If you're a football fan, you know that halftime IS game time for a lot of bands. But, if you're from New Orleans, Louisiana, being in a band is a way of life. We talk to Edna Karr High School's band director, Chris Herrero all about his award winning band. Chris joins us to talk about his unique style of leadership, his gifted students and how his band was able to capture the attention of the one and only Beyoncé. The Edna Karr Marching Band aka TEAM BUST EM UP then gives us a performance. Special thanks to: Chris Herrero Edna Karr High School City of New Orleans Follow Edna Karr: Instagram: @TheOfficialEdnaKarrBand Email: chris.herrero@inspirenolaschools.org Website: ednakarr.org

Women in rock bands are often overshadowed by their male counterparts, but the female led band RōZY is quickly making a Texas size impact on the music industry. On this Music Monday we talk to sisters Zoe Molly, guitar players Brandon and Aris about how the RōZY was formed, their upcoming music projects and an announcement about their next tour! The band then hits the Str8Up Stage to perform a song from the newest song "Crybaby." Follow RōZY: Website: www.rozyofficial.com All socials: @therozyofficial

HE’S BACK!! The one and only Pen Assassin himself, FIVE ​⁠returns to Music Monday! Listen as FIVE talks about where he’s been since he last came on the show, he’s recent run in with rapper Dave East ​⁠and his upcoming projects. FIVE then performs his single, “Reps” from his new album “Nothing Personal But It’s Personal” available now on all streaming platforms.

It's a country full of love, music and pride. The Str8Up crew heads to Brazil. Join us as we talk to Marianna and Debbie, two Brazil natives, all about their home country. Our guest talk about the love of their culture and breakdown the misconnects the world has of Brazil and the Brazilian people.

In this age of social media, it's easy to find yourself being discouraged due to a number of life issues. But how you handle your negative situation is a practice that many of us can use. We talk to viral motivational speaker Will Diggs aka @WillKeepItReal about the different ways of having a motivating mindset. Will then gives our listeners encouraging message about self love. Follow Will Diggs: TikTok-@WILLKEEPITREAL2 Instagram-@WILLKEEPITREAL1 Youtube-@WILLKEEPITREAL

“All Roads Lead to Shreveport,” says Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson after his recent purchase of the old Millennium Studios in Shreveport, LA. But what does this mean for the area? We talk to Hollywood actors/stuntmen and longtime Shreveport-Bossier residents, Tim J. Smith and Dother Sykes IV about the impact G-Unit Film & Television Inc will have on northwest Louisiana and the surrounding areas. The two actors then give tips to locals who are hoping to one day work in TV & Film. Tim J. Smith: @timboslice1985 Dother Sykes IV: @therealdother

WE'RE BACK!! And boy, there is so much to talk about! On the Season 8 premiere, Calvin opens up about his personal love life by inviting two of his personal friends to the show. Tune in as they point out his flaws and help him cope with such a bad ending to a relationship/friendship/situationship. Where do you think he went wrong? Also, Calvin discusses why the almost a year absence from podcasting and what the future holds for the Str8Up Show Podcast. Poem: Red Lion- The Art Of Falling