W. Kamau Bell is an acclaimed comedian, activist, podcast host, and author known for his insightful blend of humour and social commentary. His influential work has spanned numerous shows, including Totally Biased, Politically Re-Active, United Shades of America, and We Need to Talk About Cosby. An Emmy and Peabody Award winner, Bell’s achievements extend beyond entertainment, having also been honoured by the ACLU and recognised as the Ambassador of Fishbone by founding member Chris Dowd. Aside from his professional accolades, he juggles roles as a podcast host and tour performer, while also promoting his upcoming children’s book Rock Paper Scissors Cheese due out on October 27th.
Tech Tools and Preferences
When asked about his most essential tool, Bell pointed to something that keeps all gadgets running smoothly: a charger. “All of this is just shiny paperweights without a charger,” he stated. For navigational purposes, he frequently relies on map apps and jestingly expressed that while he uses them daily, he wishes for alternatives that do not distort geographic facts, as he humorously critiques the app’s representation of the Gulf of Mexico.
Essential Apps and Digital Habits
As for apps, Bell would most likely install YouTube first on a new device. The platform serves as a constant companion for information and entertainment, preventing him from merely “thinking his own thoughts all day.” When it comes to protecting his phone, he wishes manufacturers would integrate a screen protector during production to avoid the inconvenience of applying it himself. Digital cleanliness is another point of interest for Bell; he describes how he can juggle up to 30 tabs while writing, which he only closes after completing a piece.
Social Media Shifts and Online Affinities
Bell credits Elon Musk’s changes to Twitter for freeing him from the platform and its unhealthy draw. As a public figure, he now prefers Instagram and Threads, though he acknowledges these platforms have their own limitations. On a lighter note, Bell enjoys watching Japanese YouTube videos or sharing Lionfield clips with his 8-year-old on Instagram, which serves as his “happy place” online.
Gadgets, Games, and Trends
A memorable gadget for Bell is an Afro pick, complete with long metal teeth and a fist as its handle, while he recalls a brush bought because of Shark Tank as disappointing—it was ineffective for his hair type. In gaming, he fondly remembers Civilization on PC and NBA Live ‘95 on Sega Genesis, nostalgic of his younger days.
Insights on Technology and Entertainment
On tech trends, Bell wishes artificial intelligence would fade away, and he playfully remarked on how he’d have capitalised on the app Flappy Bird. He is most proud of a more personal creation: his three daughters.
Candid Conversations and Personal Reflections
The best career advice he ever received was from Kevin Kataoka, advising him to expand his skills beyond stand-up comedy. In his words, the NBA off-season holds more excitement than the regular season, even with the Knicks’ success.
Bell admits he needs coffee and extreme quiet to focus, playfully adding that he can’t often work late when family duties call. When stuck, a change of tune or a mobile game can help him regain momentum. Reflecting on media, Bell recently purchased Fishbone’s first EP and suggests that splurging on a new computer is worthwhile.
If a film were ever made about his life, he’d choose the tagline: “Doing the best he can,” capturing the essence of his multifaceted journey.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.