Lil Wayne is expanding his media footprint with the launch of a new podcast titled The Joint Venture. The Grammy-winning rapper will co-host the show alongside WFAN radio personality Craig Carton, with weekly episodes premiering on July 22. The announcement marks Wayne's most significant foray into the podcasting world since his Apple Music show Young Money Radio ended in 2021.
A Natural Pairing of Music and Sports
While the pairing of a hip-hop legend with a sports radio host might seem unconventional, Wayne and Carton have built a genuine friendship over the years. Carton has previously called Wayne the “biggest sports fan” he knows, and the two have frequently discussed sports on Carton’s WFAN show. Wayne, whose fandom includes the Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Lakers, is as comfortable debating quarterback rankings as he is crafting rap verses.
The podcast’s first episode will be taped live at Fanatics Fest NYC on Sunday, July 19, a few days before the official launch. The live event will feature a star-studded lineup of guests, including former New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, ex-New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire, and two-time Super Bowl-winning New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning. The setting underscores the show’s blend of music, sports, and pop culture.
What to Expect from The Joint Venture
According to Wayne, the podcast will adopt an informal, unfiltered tone. “The best podcasts feel like you just kicking it with your people, talking the same way you do when nobody's listening,” he said in a statement. “I'ma light one up with the homie Craig and we gonna talk our sh-t about whatever the day brings. You never know who's gonna pull up or where the conversation's gonna go.”
Carton echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the natural chemistry between the two hosts. “There's nothing better than swapping takes with Wayne on sports, pop culture and a whole host of other topics,” Carton added. “The Joint Venture show gives us a great excuse to keep doing what we've been doing for years, while also having some famous friends stop by and chop it up with us. There's no better job in the world.”
Lil Wayne’s Ongoing Tour and New Album
Just days before the Fanatics Fest event, Lil Wayne will continue his tour celebrating 20 years of the iconic Tha Carter series. He is scheduled to perform in Chicago on Friday, July 17, as part of an extended tour that has taken him across North America. The tour coincides with the release of his most recent album, Tha Carter VI, which dropped in June 2025 and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album has been praised for its lyrical depth and production, solidifying Wayne’s status as one of hip-hop’s most enduring figures.
Wayne’s career spans over two decades, with numerous chart-topping hits, multiple Grammy Awards, and a devoted global fan base. From his early days as a teenage prodigy in the Hot Boys to his solo breakout with Tha Carter in 2004, he has consistently reinvented his sound. The Tha Carter anniversary tour includes stops in major cities and features a setlist of fan favorites and deep cuts.
Craig Carton: From Radio Host to Podcast Co-Host
Craig Carton is a well-known figure in sports radio, having co-hosted the popular “Carton & Roberts” show on WFAN. He has built a reputation for his energetic style and willingness to engage with guests from outside the sports world. Carton’s previous interviews with Lil Wayne were widely shared, and their chemistry led to the idea of a joint podcast. Carton’s experience in live radio and podcasting provides a solid foundation for The Joint Venture.
The partnership also highlights a growing trend of musicians and athletes entering the podcast space. Artists like Joe Rogan, Steve Austin, and even rapper Action Bronson have turned podcasts into major platforms for long-form conversation. Wayne’s entry into this arena could attract a crossover audience of hip-hop fans and sports enthusiasts.
The Fanatics Fest NYC Connection
Fanatics Fest NYC, scheduled for July 19 at the Javits Center, is a multi-day sports and pop culture event organized by Fanatics, the sports merchandise giant. The festival features autograph sessions, memorabilia displays, and live shows. The inclusion of The Joint Venture taping adds a unique element, allowing attendees to witness the debut of the podcast and potentially interact with the hosts. Other celebrities expected at the event include athletes, musicians, and content creators.
A Deeper Look at Wayne’s Sports Fandom
Lil Wayne’s love for sports transcends casual interest. He has been spotted at numerous NBA and NFL games, often wearing team apparel and passionately cheering from courtside or sideline seats. He famously named his 2010 album I Am Not a Human Being after a line from a sports broadcast, and his lyrics frequently reference athletes and teams. His knowledge of sports statistics and history is often cited by those who have interviewed him.
In recent years, Wayne has also invested in esports and co-owned a gaming team. His podcast with Carton could further cement his identity as a multifaceted entertainer who bridges the gap between music and athletics.
What This Means for the Podcasting Landscape
The launch of The Joint Venture comes at a time when podcasting is more competitive than ever. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube are vying for exclusive content from major names. While Lil Wayne is not the first rapper to host a podcast, his massive cultural influence and Carton’s radio pedigree could give the show a strong debut. The episodic format—with no set guest list—promises spontaneity and variety, qualities that often drive listener engagement.
Industry analysts suggest that cross-genre shows like this one have the potential to attract advertisers looking for diverse audiences. With Wayne’s loyal fan base and Carton’s existing listenership, The Joint Venture is positioned for early success.
Looking Ahead
As the July 22 premiere date approaches, anticipation is building among fans of both hosts. The live taping at Fanatics Fest will serve as a proving ground, offering a taste of the chemistry and banter that listeners can expect each week. Wayne and Carton have hinted at future guests including other athletes, musicians, and comedians, but they have also emphasized that impromptu conversations will be the show’s core strength.
For Lil Wayne, The Joint Venture represents another chapter in an already remarkable career. For Craig Carton, it is an opportunity to expand beyond traditional radio. Together, they aim to create a space where music, sports, and unfiltered conversation collide.
The podcast will be available on major platforms starting July 22. Additional details about the show’s format and upcoming guests are expected to be released in the days leading up to the premiere.
Source:MSN News