Philadelphia Community Podcast

Insight Pt. 1: VLS Journey's - The African American Children's Book Fair

In this first segment I’m joined by Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati – founder of the African American Children’s Book Fair for her once-a-month segment VLS Journeys. Vanesse speaks to three of the authors featured at the event. Kelly Starling Lyon is an award-winning author, whose book "Sing a Song" celebrates the Black National Anthem. Ibi Zoboi is a Bestselling and award-winning author of books including "Star Child," about the great science fiction writer Octavia Butler. Nana Brew Hammond has writt...

WUSL FM Power 99 NAB Crystal audio 2023

What's Going On: Special Olympics PA Polar Plunge, CHOP Flu Season Tips, Act 158 & PHL High School Graduation Requirements

It’s still cold and flu season. I speak to Tyra Bryant-Stephens, MD, Chief Health Equity Officer of the Center for Health Equity at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia tells how to keep our kids healthy and when to call a pediatrician and when to get to an emergency room for upper respiratory symptoms. https://www.chop.edu/sickseason Facebook - @childrenshospitalofphiladelphia – Twitter @ChildrensPhila – Instagram - @ChildrensPhila – LinkedIn - @ChildrensHospitalofPhiladelphia Act 158 provi...

Insight Pt. 2: Special Olympics PA Polar Plunge, Hey Girl Conference,Act 158 & PHL High School Graduation Requirements

You know among the things I hate are getting my hair wet and being cold. We'll I had to overcome my phobias for a very good cause when I volunteered to jump into an icy pool of water in the dead of winter. But I did it gladly because it was Special Olympics PA's annual Polar Plunge. Money raised got to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to ...

Insight Pt. 1: Tax Tips with to Jarde' Allen CEO, In The Moment Financial Services

It’s the dreaded tax season. I talk to Jarde' Allen CEO, In The Moment Financial Services who tells us about the biggest taxes changes this year and offers practical advice for taxpayers. www.InTheMoment101.com • IG: @ITMFinancialServices • Facebook: facebook.com/InTheMomentFinancialServices • Phone: 610-222-6150

What's Going On: Get Covered NJ, The Baby and the Biome, Well City Challenge

Especially during the pandemic we've become fanatical about being germ free - but going overboard with living a disinfected life can have a negative impact on our children. I speak to Menal Lele, author of The Baby and the Biome, who explains how diet, environmental toxins, antibiotics, and even common parenting practices can damage the delicate balance of our children’s microbiomes, thereby increasing the risk for a host of immune diseases, including eczema, asthma, food allergies, IBS, and ...

Insight Pt. 2: Get Covered NJ, Well City Challenge, Black People Breathe

The stress of racism whether it’s the daily microaggressions or worse has a tremendous impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. Zee Clarke, a Harvard MBA, breathwork expert, is author of Black People Breathe which shows us how to tap into the healing benefits of breathing and mindfulness. https://www.zeeclarke.com/ Do you have an innovative idea that can address health equity and safety challenges in black and brown communities? You might qualify for the Economy League’s Well City Chall...

Insight Pt. 1: Exceptional Bi-Lingual Leadership Program, The Baby and the Biome

Finding quality early childhood education is a challenge. Three remarkable Black and Brown women created the Exceptional Bi-Lingual Leadership Program to quality professional development in the field. To tell us more about the program and the next cohort – I speak to co-founder, Aliya Johnson-Roberts. https://latinoseducandojuntos.org/eblf/ or e-mail [email protected] Especially during the pandemic we've become fanatical about being germ free - but going overboard with living a disinf...

What's Going On: Urban Affairs Coalition, Angela Giampolo, Philly Gay Lawyer

Starting this Sunday and the third Sunday of every month- we're bringing back Angela Giampolo, LGBTQ activist and founder of Philly Gay Lawyer to talk about issues impacting the LGBTQIA+ community and the rest of us. In this segment we’ll discuss the impact of the network show “Will and Grace” on marriage equality. https://www.phillygaylawyer.com/ First up – an interview with Sharmain Matlock-Turner, CEO of the Urban Affairs Coalition about the upcoming Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther ...

Insight Pt. 2: Urban Affairs Coalition, Mayoral Candidate to Maria Quiñones Sánchez

Over the course of the next months we will be bringing you interviews with the candidates running for Mayor of the City of Philadelphia that will hopefully give you insight into the potential top leader in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. I speak to Maria Quiñones Sánchez — who represented North Philly’s 7th District on Philadelphia City Council. If elected she would be the first woman and first person of Latino descent to hold the office in this city. https://mariaforphilly...

Insight Pt. 1: 7th Annual National Day of Racial Healing

On Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023 the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) will host its seventh annual National Day of Racial Healing, an annual observance established by the Kellogg Foundation that occurs on the Tuesday following Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The National Day of Racial Healing is an opportunity for all Americans to consider having an important, but sometimes uncomfortable racial healing conversation, face up to the truths discovered from the conversation and start to heal together from ra...

What's Going On: MLK Day of Service, Girl Scout Cookie Season, Criminal Justice Reform

What's your favorite Girl Scout Cookie? I'm hardly alone in saying Thin Mints are my fave and they're only available between January 19th and March 12th during Girl Scout Cookie Season. We'll tell you how to get your hands on your favorite cookies and at the same time support one of the very best girl leadership programs. Girl Scouts of Eastern PA CEO Kim Fraites Dow gives us the scoop. https://www.gsep.org/en/cookies/about-girl-scout-cookies.html https://www.gsep.org I speak with Keir Bra...

Insight Pt. 2: MLK Day of Service, Girl Scout Cookie Season, Criminal Justice Reform

What's your favorite Girl Scout Cookie? I'm hardly alone in saying Thin Mints are my fave and they're only available between January 19th and March 12th during Girl Scout Cookie Season. We'll tell you how to get your hands on your favorite cookies and at the same time support one of the very best girl leadership programs. Girl Scouts of Eastern PA CEO Kim Fraites Dow gives us the scoop. https://www.gsep.org/en/cookies/about-girl-scout-cookies.html https://www.gsep.org I speak with Keir Bradf...

Insight Pt. 1: PECO Energy Assistance Programs (re-air)

Between the enduring impact of the pandemic and rising inflation, paying for utilities can be a challenge. The good news is that there are programs to help. I speak to Patricia King PECO Manager, Community Engagement who fills us in on assistance programs that can help meet every customer’s circumstances. www.peco.com/help

What's Going On: Black Panther - Wakanda Forever- re-air

Becaue it's the holiday - today I re-air an interivew I did about the movie Black Panther, Wakanda Forever. When I did the interview - I had read everything about it but hadn't seen it quite yet. I have seen it since and I was moved and entertained and excited for the next chapter in the story of Black Panther. Globally, “Wakanda Forever” grossed over $787 million worldwide, becoming the fifth-highest-grossing film of 2022. I’m joined by Len Webb, who co-hosts with Vincent Williams the Michea...

What's Going On: Cradles to Crayons, Supine Horizons, Care Not Control: The Album

This morning we talk with members of a coalition called Care Not Control which is working to transform the criminal legal system to end youth incarceration in PA. The coalition recently released Care, Not Control: The Album, which showcases the talents, hopes, and dreams of young people directly impacted by the criminal legal system. I speak to Bre Stoves, youth organizer with Care, Not Control and The Village of Arts and Humanities. She is also a youth advocate with Juvenile Law Center. Bre ...

Insight Pt. 2: Cradles to Crayons, Supine Horizons, Care Not Control: The Album

I want to share my thoughts about Kerri Connor Matchett whose homegoing took place this week. Co-founder of Praise is the Cure with her mom Anita T Connor, Kerri was a powerful advocate for raising awareness about early breast cancer awareness for Black women through faith-based institutions. In her too short 48 years - Kerri made a measurable difference, no doubt saving many lives. She was a mother, a daughter, a wife and a devoted friend to so many. The image I will always remember is an In...

Insight Pt. 1: Second Story Collective

I discovered Second Story Collective through Philadelphia 250’s Legacy campaign which aims to support nonprofits creating tangible positive community impact by 2026. This innovative program is creating sharing network with an anchor hub for public programming centered around the arts and creativity. Students and neighbors live together in intentional communities rooted in storytelling and sharing. I speak to Victoria Huggins Peurifoy (Community Engagement Liaison), Devin Welsh (Student Engage...

What's Going On: Womb•ish, Helping Parents Survive the "Sick Season," Holiday Help from Fine Wine & Good Spirits, Jump Starting Motivation

Feeling stuck? From the archives an interview with Daniel Pink the author of Drive, the Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Need last minute gift ideas or suggestions of wines to pair with our holiday dinners? I speak to Andrew Hart, Wine Specialist for Fine Wine and Good Spirits. https://www.finewineandgoodspirits.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@FineWineGoodSpirits First – it’s cold and flu season. I speak to Tyra Bryant-Stephens, MD, Chief Health Equity Officer of the Center for He...

Insight Pt. 2: Womb•ish, Helping Parents Survive the "Sick Season," Holiday Help from Fine Wine & Good Spirits

Doulas are increasingly important for Black moms. According to a 2021 study, Black women are more than three times more likely to die during pregnancy and postpartum than their white counterparts. I speak to Christine Eley is the founder and CEO of Womb Intensive Systematic Holistic Care (Womb•ish a birth services company offering educational workshops and classes for expecting parents, wellness services for women, and certification courses for birth educators. https://www.instagram.com/womb....

Insight Pt. 1: The Center for Global Africa

The Center for Global Africa (CGA) is an academic think tank housed at Delaware State University that engages in research, consultancy, advocacy and enterprising practices for global African development through our signature Academic Governmental Economic (AGE) Model for Development. I speak to Founder and Executive Director Ezrah Aharone about the work of the Center to promote economic and cultural exchange between countries in Africa and Americans of African descent. www.centerforglobalafr...

What's Going On: Protecting Same Sex Marriage, Dr. Jill Bowen, Commissioner DBHIDS on Mental Wellness Resources

I speak with Dr. Jill Bowen, Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services Bowen about community resources to support mental wellness including The Community Wellness Engagement Unit (CWEU) and Faith and Spiritual Affairs (FSA) initiative. To reach out or connect to jobs at CWEU email [email protected] For info about Faith and Spiritual Affairs Initiative email [email protected] or visit www.dbhids.org/fsa The U.S. Senate has passed landmark legisl...

Insight Pt. 2: Actress and Fertility Activist Kellee Stewart, Dr. Jill Bowen, Commissioner DBHIDS on Mental Wellness Resources

What if you’re a single woman and you still dream of being a mom. I had a fascinating conversation with Kellee Stewart actress, writer and producer who is opening up an important conversation on this very issue. https://blacklove.com/kellee-stewarts-personal-fertility-journey-of-turning-pain-into-purpose/ I speak with Dr. Jill Bowen, Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services Bowen about community resources to support mental wellness including T...

Insight Pt. 1 - Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati - VLS Journeys

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks to Tyrique Glasgow founder of Young Chances Foundation. The South Philly activist is also a nominee for the annual competition CNN HERO OF THE YEAR which is given to an individual who is making extraordinary contributions to help improve the lives of others. The deadline is Tuesday December 6th. Listeners can vote for Tyrique by going to https://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/cnn.heroes/vote/10/ http://www.youngchancesfoundation.org/ Vanesse also speaks to...

What's Going On: City Year Philadelphia, Phestival of Trees, Wagner Middle School

Before we get started a final update on running my 8k during the AACR Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. Even though I was sick with a stomach flu the Monday leading up to the race - I made it! I might have been 2884th out of 3,340 and took an hour and 10 minutes - I had the satisfaction of finishing and raising nearly 1500 dollars for the American Association for Cancer Research - an organization I support because they are funding the scientists making the biggest breakthroughs in cancer treat...

Insight Pt. 2: City Year Philadelphia, Phestival of Trees, Wagner Middle School

Before we get started a final update on running my 8k during the AACR Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. Even though I was sick with a stomach flu the Monday leading up to the race - I made it! I might have been 2884th out of 3,340 and took an hour and 10 minutes - I had the satisfaction of finishing and raising nearly 1500 dollars for the American Association for Cancer Research - an organization I support because they are funding the scientists making the biggest breakthroughs in cancer treat...

Insight Pt. 1: WDAS FM's Mimi Brown and Her Impact on Music

WDAS FM’s Mimi Brown is a radio and music business Icon. From the archives – an interview with Mimi about her impact on recording artists and personal anecdotes about some of the musicians she’s met along the way.

What's Going On: National Donor Sabbath, “False Pretenses”

As this show airs Sunday - I will have run in the AACR Marathon Weekend's 8K. You'll have to wait until next week’s show to get the real lowdown. I'm going to say it will have been a struggle since I was down with a stomach virus on Monday and not feeling 100 percent. But my passion for the cause motivates me to support the American Association for Cancer Research - because eighty-eight cents out of every dollar donated goes to funding scientists working on breakthroughs in cancer. it's no...

Insight Pt. 2: National Donor Sabbath, “False Pretenses”

As this show airs Sunday - I will have run in the AACR Marathon Weekend's 8K. You'll have to wait until next week’s show to get the real lowdown. I'm going to say it will have been a struggle since I was down with a stomach virus on Monday and not feeling 100 percent. But my passion for the cause motivates me to support the American Association for Cancer Research - because eighty-eight cents out of every dollar donated goes to funding scientists working on breakthroughs in cancer. it's no...

Insight Pt. 1: Mental Health First AID, Poet Lenore (Leni) Uddyback Fortson

We all know about First AID for physical injuries and ailments but what about Mental Health First AID? The Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services has a training that gives everyday citizens the tools to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use challenge. I speak to Malik Gray, Health Program Analyst Supervisor, for the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services about the trai...

What's Going on: Kùlú Mèlé African Dance & Drum Ensemble , Covenant House PA, Living Beyond Breast Cancer

Kùlú Mèlé African Dance & Drum Ensemble is celebrating its 53rd Anniversary with the presentation of “Rite of Passage -- An African Ballet” November 26 and November 27, at the Performance Garage, 1515 Brandywine Street, Philadelphia. I speak to artistic director Dorothy "Mama Dottie" Gordon-Wilkie. www.performancegarage.org November is Youth Homelessness Month. I speak to Jen Weikert, Executive Director, Covenant House Pennsylvania about the organization that provides housing and supportive...

Insight Pt. 2: Black Panther - Wakanda Forever

“Black Panther -Wakanda Forever” has opened in theaters worldwide. I’m joined by Len Webb, who co-hosts with Vincent Williams the Micheaux Mission podcast and Ariell R. Johnson, “Head Nerd in Charge” Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse who offer their take on what one critic called “Marvel’s most poignant and powerful film.” FB|IG|Twitter|TikTok @amalgamphilly https://www.micheauxmission.com/ Micheaux Mission podcast is Podcast available via iTunes and Soundcloud

Insight Pt. 1: PHLDiversity, Kùlú Mèlé African Dance & Drum Ensemble

I speak to Sheila Alexander-Reid (she/her), Executive Director, PHL Diversity, a business development division of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau about her mission to attract diverse meetings and events to Philadelphia. Web: www.DiscoverPHL.com/Diversity Twitter: @DiscoverPHL #PHLDiversity Facebook: Facebook.com/DiscoverPHL Instagram: @Discover_PHL LinkedIn: Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau Kùlú Mèlé African Dance & Drum Ensemble is celebrating its 53rd Anniversary w...

What's Going On: The Promise, Voter Information, Medicare Advantage

Counting down to the AACR Philadelphia Marathon weekend Friday, November 18th - Sunday, November 20th. There's the marathon, half marathon and the 8 k which I'm running with the AACR Runners for Research team on Saturday Nov. 19th. Happy to say that people are still contributing to my race. My goal was a thousand dollars but I'm up to $1225.00 - so thank you! The money is going to the American Association For Cancer Research the oldest and largest cancer research foundation supporting the b...

Insight Pt. 2: The Promise, Voter Information, Medicare Advantage

Counting down to the AACR Philadelphia Marathon weekend Friday, November 18th - Sunday, November 20th. There's the marathon, half marathon and the 8 k which I'm running with the AACR Runners for Research team on Saturday Nov. 19th. Happy to say that people are still contributing to my race. My goal was a thousand dollars but I'm up to $1225.00 - so thank you! The money is going to the American Association For Cancer Research the oldest and largest cancer research foundation supporting the b...

What's Going On: AACR Philadelphia Marathon, Making American Artists at PAFA

We’re less than a month away from the 2022 AACR Philadelphia Marathon. During the weekend of November 19-20 there will be marathon, half marathon and 8k - which is what I'm running. I pledged to raise a thousand dollars for the American Association for Cancer Research the oldest and largest cancer research foundation funding scientists making the big breakthroughs in cancer cures. I'm happy to say over the course of two days I'm there - just short 175 dollars away from my goal - so thank you!...

Insight Pt. 2: University City Science Center BULB Program, YEAH Philly, Violence Prevention Hotline

We’re less than a month away from the 2022 AACR Philadelphia Marathon. During the weekend of November 19-20 there will be marathon, half marathon and 8k - which is what I'm running. I pledged to raise a thousand dollars for the American Association for Cancer Research the oldest and largest cancer research foundation funding scientists making the big breakthroughs in cancer cures. I'm happy to say over the course of two days I'm nearly there - just short 175 dollars away from my goal - so ...

Insight Pt. 1: Making American Artists at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

After my dad retired from 36 years in the army - he became the head of security for the National Gallery of Art in DC. During the summer of my teenage years, I would wander the galleries. My love of art started there. That's why I was especially interested in talking with the Pennsylvania Academy of the arts which has a new exhibit called Making American Artists. embracing stories about women artists, LGBTQIA+ artists, and artists of color. It also poses central questions about the artist’s e...

What's Going On: Vote Early Day, Emily's Entourage

Before we get started - a quick update on my training for the AACR Philadelphia Marathon Weekend where I'll be running the 8k. A little set back - I have a cold and I feel crappy so that ruled out running for the past few days but I'm taking my vitamin c, getting rest and will be back training for the event November 19-20th to benefit the American Association for Cancer Research. Join me or donate by going to www.aacr.org/runnersforresearch. I get to meet some very impressive people in my ...

Insight Pt. 2: Vote Early Day, 57 Blocks, We Can Do Better and TA’J

Before we get started - a quick update on my training for the AACR Philadelphia Marathon Weekend where I'll be running the 8k. A little set back - I have a cold and I feel crappy so that ruled out running for the past few days but I'm taking my vitamin c, getting rest and will be back training for the event November 19-20th to benefit the American Association for Cancer Research. Join me or donate by going to www.aacr.org/runnersforresearch. The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote a devastating ar...

Insight Pt. 1: PECO and Energy Assistance

Between the pandemic and rising inflation, paying for utilities can be a challenge. The good news is that there are programs to help. I speak to Patricia King PECO Manager, Community Engagement who fills us in on assistance programs that can help meet every customer’s circumstances. www.peco.com/help

What's Going On: Mural Arts Month, THOSE WITH 2 CLOCKS at the Wilma Theater

I've been keeping you up to date on my training for the AACR Philadelphia Marathon weekend when I'll be doing the 8k to benefit the oldest and largest cancer research foundation in the world. Thanks to you we've already raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars and 35 percent more have signed up for runners for research over last year. Join me in supporting this great organization supporting researchers who are discovering breakthroughs in cancer treatment. www.aacr.org/runnersforresea...

Insight Pt. 2: African American Chamber of Commerce, "Trigger," Re-Entry w/ Corie Priest, PHILADANCO

I've been keeping you up to date on my training for the AACR Philadelphia Marathon weekend when I'll be doing the 8k to benefit the oldest and largest cancer research foundation in the world. Thanks to you we've already raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars and 35 percent more have signed up for runners for research over last year. Join me in supporting this great organization supporting researchers who are discovering breakthroughs in cancer treatment. www.aacr.org/runnersforresea...

Insight Pt.: AARP Voter Guide, Mural Arts Month, Medicare Advantage w/ Braven Health, Diverse & Minority Biz Forum

I’ll be speaking with Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia about Mural Arts Month. For more info: www.muralarts.org. Follow along on social media: @muralarts on Twitter and Instagram, @MuralArtsPhiladelphia on Facebook, and phillymuralarts on YouTube. It’s that time of year again when those that qualify have options for signing up for Medicare Advantage plans. Michael Sheehan, Chief Clinical Officer for Braven Health, explains Medicare Advantage, changes in healthcare...

What's Going On: 2022 Philly HS Fair, Reading Promise Week, AIDS Walk 2022, Project Home

The 2022 Philly High School Fair will take place in-person with nearly 100 public district, public charter, private and Catholic schools in attendance October 14-15. More than 100 high schools of all types (district, charter, private and parochial). With school representatives on hand to provide one-on-one support, answer questions, and help students apply on the spot, the fair makes the high school application process as easy as possible for all Philadelphia families. I speak to Dr. Stacy E....

Insight Pt. 2: 2022 Philly HS Fair, Reading Promise Week, AIDS Walk 2022, Project Home

The 2022 Philly High School Fair will take place in-person with nearly 100 public district, public charter, private and Catholic schools in attendance October 14-15. More than 100 high schools of all types (district, charter, private and parochial). With school representatives on hand to provide one-on-one support, answer questions, and help students apply on the spot, the fair makes the high school application process as easy as possible for all Philadelphia families. I speak to Dr. Stacy E....

Insight Pt. 1: CSN Productions and Digital Inclusion with Comcast

I speak to Carolyn Sims-Nesmith, Founder and Artistic Director and Twana Thomas Bagayoko, General Manager of CSN Productions, LLC which provides performance arts training and a space for artistic and cultural happenings. They also talk about the upcoming Gospel Soul Series ll, October 16, 2022 at 3510 Scotts Lane, Studio 3015A, from 2-4 PM. https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=csn%20productions%2C%20llc The good news is that 84% of Philadelphians have broadband connections at home but that...

What's Going On: AACR Party With a Purpose, Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner

A Pennsylvania Legislative Panel working to find grounds for impeaching Philadelphia's District Attorney. The effort is a rare step and Experts say their chances of succeeding are slim to none, but it does speak to the widespread view that cities have become less safe. I speak with Krasner about the move and distinguishing facts from perceptions when it comes to crime in the city. First - as you probably know right now, I'm running the 8k during the American Association for Cancer Research ...

Insight P. 2: FEMA Flood Readiness, Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. I speak to Kia Evans-Watson, External Affairs Officer and member of the FEMA Region 3 Incident Management Assistance Team about how to become "weather ready." www.fema.gov A Pennsylvania Legislative Panel working to find grounds for impeaching Philadelphia's District Attorney. The effort is a rare step and Experts say their chances of succeeding are slim to none, but it does speak to the widespread view that cities have become...

Insight Pt. 1.: Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati - VLS Journeys

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati speaks with award winning children's book illustrator Gordon C. James whose titles include Ode to the Fresh Cut, I am Every Good Thing and Just Like Jesse Owens. https://www.gordoncjames.com/ Jamar Nicholas is an award-winning, Philadelphia-based artist and educator and author of Leon the Extraordinary is this month's "What is Philadelphia Reading." https://jamarnicholas.weebly.com/