KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Yee Yang joins Freddie Bell to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and discuss this year’s theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together.” Representing Minneapolis Public Schools, Yang highlights the rich diversity and cultural contributions of AANHPI communities both locally and nationwide. The conversation includes...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Mikeya Griffin joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to celebrate one year since Golden Thyme Restaurant reopened under the leadership of Rondo Community Land Trust. A proud “Rondo baby,” Griffin reflects on the importance of preserving culturally significant spaces that serve as anchors for community connection, history, and economic opportunity. She discusses the legacy...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Liz Schwab joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to explain why public interest in data centers is rapidly increasing as digital technology, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and online services become more central to everyday life. Representing Google's global infrastructure and energy team, she discusses the real-world purpose of data centers and clears up common...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Esther Agbaje joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to provide an inside look at the final days of the Minnesota legislative session, highlighting key priorities, ongoing negotiations, and what residents can expect before adjournment. She reflects on the fast-paced session, sharing progress made on housing, taxes, and community investments, while also outlining what major...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss how Minnesotans, especially older adults, can prepare for severe weather season as storms, floods, and emergencies become more likely. Representing AARP Minnesota, he highlights the unique vulnerabilities many older residents face, including mobility challenges, healthcare needs, and limited access to resources d...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Daren Johnson joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to highlight how learning continues beyond the school year through extended learning programs at Minneapolis Public Schools. He explains opportunities for K-8 students, including after-school programs like STEM, GEMS/GISE, and Discovery & Learning, which focus on academic enrichment and hands-on experiences. Johnson...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, G. Phillip Shoultz, III joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to discuss VocalEssence’s season finale concert, “Global Rhythms, Joyful Voices,” happening May 3 at Ordway Concert Hall. He shares how the performance brings together music, dance, and storytelling from cultures across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, reflecting the diverse traditions that shape American music...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jennifer Bordon joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to talk about “Let’s Roll MPS,” a free, community bike ride happening May 6 on the Northside to celebrate National Bike to School Day. She explains how the event brings together students, families, and community members to promote active living, connection, and healthy habits, while also highlighting the importance of...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rep. Esther Agbaje about ongoing efforts at the State Capitol to pass meaningful gun violence prevention legislation. She outlines key proposals, including restrictions on assault weapons, bans on high-capacity magazines, and measures addressing emerging threats like untraceable “ghost guns.” While many Minnesotans support these policies, she expl...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Liam Green about the mission of Every Meal and its efforts to address child hunger across Minnesota. He explains how the organization provides weekend food support to students experiencing food insecurity, ensuring they have access to meals outside of school days. The conversation highlights the program’s roots in Minneapolis Public Schools and it...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell talks with Londell McMillan, the co-owner & co-manager of the Prince estate as well as the co-owner of Paisley Park. McMillan spoke bout the energy at Paisley Park on yesterday, which marked ten years since Prince's passing. He also spoke about the recent release of Prince's version of With This Tear, which was recorded back in 1991. On the subject of mus...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Mary Moriarty about the recent conviction of David Eugene Wright in the murder of Mariah Samuels, a case that has raised serious concerns about system failures and domestic violence protections. They discuss how an Order for Protection is intended to work and what should happen when violations are reported, especially in urgent situations. Moriart...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Superintendent Christine Tucci Osorio about the latest graduation results for School District 622, celebrating a year of outstanding achievement. She shares what contributed to the district’s success and the efforts behind improved student outcomes. At the same time, Tucci Osorio acknowledges challenges from recent community disru...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Debra Hurston and Aquilla Robinson about the mission of the Association for Black Economic Power (ABEP) and its work to expand financial access and build long-term wealth in underserved communities. They highlight the creation of Arise Community Credit Union, Minnesota’s first Black-led community credit union, and explain how ABEP’s approach focus...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Emma Balázs about The People’s Museum for Prince, a unique, community-powered project that invites fans to share personal stories, artwork, and memories of the iconic artist. She explains how the traveling museum centers everyday voices to preserve Prince’s cultural impact beyond traditional timelines and facts. Opening June 7, Prince’s birthday,...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams about Minneapolis Public Schools’ transition back to full in-person learning following a period of online options. She shares how the district is supporting students both academically and emotionally during the adjustment, while also providing an update on the ongoing budget process and new transparency tools for the communit...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Wil Dorsey about his debut memoir Looking for Czar , a heartfelt exploration of the bond between humans and their dogs. Inspired by a dream years after losing his beloved dog, Dorsey shares how the book blends personal storytelling, original artwork, and emotional reflection. He introduces the concept of attunement, encouraging people to slow down...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Clare Fuyuko Bierman and Erika Ji about their work in musical theater and their involvement with Theater Latté Da’s NEXT Generation Commission as well as being awardees. They discuss how the program supports bold, original storytelling by historically underrepresented artists, providing both funding and long-term development opportunities. Bierman...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rep. Esther Agbaje about urgent legislative efforts to support Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), a critical safety net hospital serving the Upper Midwest. She discusses her upcoming “Ball Park” tax bill and the need for bipartisan cooperation as the legislative session winds down. Rep. Agbaje emphasizes that the future of HCMC impacts all Min...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with G. Phillip Shoultz, III about Sing Democracy 250, a nationwide choral initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. He highlights the upcoming signature concert in Minneapolis at Orchestra Hall, featuring premieres of powerful new works inspired by themes of democracy, citizenship, and justice. Shoultz also emp...

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Crystal Brinkman about summer employment opportunities available through the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. She highlights programs like Teen Teamworks, which helps youth ages 14–18 build essential job skills, responsibility, and confidence through hands-on work experiences. Brinkman also discusses opportunities for young adults through...