The Gist of Bid-Whist: A Kandid Chat on the Cultural History of Bid Whist with Author Lamont Jones
- The Gist of Bid-Whist: A Kandid Chat on the Cultural History of Bid Whist with Author Lamont Jones The Kandid Shop Podcast LLC 48:49
Have you ever thought the timeless tradition of card games could reveal profound cultural stories?
Well, today's episode was nothing short of a treat as I sit down with the insightful and engaging Lamont Jones, a boxing business attorney and the Author of the critically acclaimed book, “The Gist of Bid Whist: The Culturally-Rich Card Game from Black America.”
Lamont's passion for Bid Whist shone through as he recounted his own introduction to the game during law school, a time when he was blissfully unaware of its rich cultural roots and strategic complexity. We laughed about the game's reputation as an “old folks game,” but as Lamont peeled back the layers, it became clear that Bid Whist is a game that transcends age and time, offering a blend of strategy, social interaction, and cultural heritage.
Throughout our conversation, we delved into the nuances of Bid Whist, comparing and contrasting it with the more commonly known game of Spades. Lamont expertly explained the “knockout factor” of Bid Whist, where, much like in boxing, any hand could dramatically turn the tables and secure a win, regardless of the score. This element of unpredictability and excitement is just one of the many reasons Lamont champions Bid Whist as a superior card game.
The historical significance of the Pullman Porters was a focal point of our discussion, as Lamont detailed how these respected figures in the African-American community helped spread Bid Whist across the nation. The game became a cultural connector, a source of joy, and a competitive pastime that resonated deeply within black communities, from coast to coast.
Lamont's mission with “The Gist of Bidwist” is to breathe new life into the game, ensuring it doesn't disappear with the passing generations. He envisions a future where Bid Whist is not only a nod to the past but also a vibrant part of our present, with plotlines in movies, television, and perhaps even the next great American novel.
We even got into some celebrity gossip, discussing notable Bid Whist players like Magic Johnson, Thurgood Marshall and Michael Jordan, and Lamont shared his ongoing investigation into whether former President Barack Obama is a secret Bid Whist aficionado.
Before we wrapped up, Lamont emphasized the importance of his book for both seasoned players and those who feel they lack the “card-playing gene.” He's determined to make Bid Whist accessible and enjoyable for everyone, using his book as a comprehensive guide to learning and loving the game.
To all my listeners, if you're intrigued by the strategic and social depths of Bid Whist, or if you're simply a card game enthusiast looking for your next challenge, this episode is a must-listen.
For more information on Bid Whist, to grab a copy of Lamont's book, or just to connect with the man himself, head over to Amazon or visit www.gistofbidwist.com. You can also reach out to Lamont on Twitter @Lamontsixnolow.
Stay tuned for more kandid conversations here on The Kandid Shop, where we keep it real, raw, and utterly kandid.
Until next time, keep playing those cards, no matter what hand you're dealt!
Connect with Lamont:
https://gistofbidwhist.com/
https://twitter.com/LamontSixNoLow
Get the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Gist-Bid-Whist-Culturally-Rich-America/dp/B0CN319X34
Intro Music by: Anthony Nelson aka BUSS
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/buss/252316338
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