Local Matters Podcast

Corey Rogers, the executive director of the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, discussed the activities and events happening at the museum in 2025. Corey shared his journey to becoming the director of the museum, emphasizing his passion for history and his desire to pursue a career related to it. They also discussed the growth and opportunities in the field of public history, the Golden Blo...

Jim Hunt, a former elected official, and National League of Cities president discussed the importance of local government, innovation, and technology in connecting with citizens and businesses. He emphasized the need for a positive image, the effective use of social media and websites in attracting people to a community, and the potential for cities to benefit from partnerships and other people's...

Sam Toles, founder of Civisocial, explores how social media helps local governments connect with communities, counter negativity, boost staff morale, and recruit talent. He also discusses TikTok’s rise, its storytelling potential, and concerns over its Chinese ownership. Civisocial website: https://civisocial.com To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contac...

The 2024 presidential election may be over, but relational and familial fractures are not. In fact, it may be just the beginning. In this week's Local Matters Podcast, a licensed clinical social worker helps us navigate the emotional roller coaster after the election and before the holidays. Tune in to hear insight on dealing with depression, anxiety, and fear during a divisive time in our country...

The tragic shooting death of an 8-year-old child in Augusta in 2021 sparked a movement for change a grieving community did not see coming. On today's Local Matters, faith leaders with a heart for service usher in ways for the community to turn pain into purpose. We take a deep dive into the efforts of the Augusta Community Outreach Consortium to transform the landscape of Richmond County's schools...

Host Janice Allen Jackson discusses the who, what, and why behind our November 5, 2024 elections results. She discusses winners and losers in the Richmond County Board of Education Districts 4, 5, 8, and 10. She also discusses the Education SPLOST. Finally, she gives her analysis of why Donald Trump will be our 47th president.

Rev. Dr. Barbara Brehon founded Favored by the Father Ministries, hosts the Unboxed on Purpose Podcast, and focuses her Christian education efforts on building true intimacy with God. She has authored three books. We discuss her ministry but, more significantly, what it has meant to be a woman preacher. Dr. Brehon's website: https://www.favoredbythefather.com/ To contact Mrs. Jackson for consultin...

William Harris, Republican Candidate for Georgia State House District 126, joins Local Matters to discuss his platform, accomplishments, and why we should trust him to represent the district. I also cover the latest court decision related to rules set forth by the Georgia State Election Board. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, v...

This is an essential episode to make sure Georgia voters are ready! We discuss how previous severe weather events have affected voter turnout, why Georgia is so important to presidential candidates, and how to find out what is on your ballot. We also review proposed state constitutional amendments, a statewide referendum, and the Educational 1% sales tax. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Jan...

Lee Blitch and Samantha Valentine join the Local Matters family to share their thoughts on issues confronting our school system. They also tell us about their community involvement and platforms and why they believe they deserve your vote. If you live in Districts 3, 6, 7, and 8, you are in Super District 10.    DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herse...

Dr. Onnie Poe and Mary Jane Abbott join the Local Matters family to share their thoughts on issues confronting our school system. They also tell us about their community involvement and why they believe they deserve your vote. Dr. Onnie Poe Website:drpoeforeducation.org Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/onniepoe-fillinginthegaps/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/onnie.poe Mary Jane Abbott FB: http...

Monique Braswell, Christopher Mulliens, and AK Hasan join the Local Matters family to share their thoughts on issues confronting our school system. They also tell us about their community involvement, and why they believe they deserve your vote. Monique FB: https://www.facebook.com/monique.braswell.5 Cell#: 7063994343 Christopher Mulliens Campaign FB: https://www.facebook.com/ElectCMulliens AK Has...

Shontae Boyd and Reginald Forrest join the Local Matters family to share their thoughts on issues confronting our school system. They also tell us about their community involvement and why they believe they deserve your vote. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These...

Host Janice Allen Jackson reviews what is on Richmond County ballots and the deadline for registering to vote. She also discusses the controversy created by the Georgia State Board of Elections when they announced changes in absentee ballot rules. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www. Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social M...

Dr. Jovonni Spinner offers insight into her work focused on diminishing the impact of chronic disease among people of color and ensuring that healthcare providers are prepared to interact with and serve them culturally and competently. We touch on the social determinants of health, health disparities, and the evolution of public health. Beacon Public Health Website: https://www.beaconpublichealth....

Ed Lowery, Richmond County Board of Education Trustee representing District 6, joins Local Matters to discuss his first year in office. We discuss what he gets the most complaints about, changes affecting our schools, and what parents and other family members can do to help our children succeed in school. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her...

League of Women Voters of the Central Savannah River Area Co-presidents Dr. Gayla Keesee and Renthia Richardson join Local Matters to explain what the organization's origins, what it does, who can join, and how you can get involved. Get frequent updates at https://www.facebook.com/CSRALeagueofWomenVoters, email them at csra.lwv@gmail.com. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson...

Dallas Frazier, Founder of Christian Sounds Entertainment (CSE) Media Group, joins the Local Matters family to update us on how technology is changing the radio business. We touch on generational differences in how we consume music, misconceptions about podcasts, and the best ways to get local news and information. Better known as Tony D, he also explains his route to get into radio. CSE Media Gro...

Hawthorne Welcher, Jr., Augusta's Director of Housing and Community Development, discusses what affordable housing is, how the city receives federal funds, the programs his department offers to help people with housing needs, and the day-to-day challenges and rewards of working in community development. If you want to find out if you qualify for assistance, please contact them at 706-821-1797. To...

Natisha Kearse is the Founder of the S.H.E Foundation. She talks about how her family has motivated her to put her ministry in action. She also discussed the S.H.E Awards and how the foundation uses its funds to help area students. You can reach out to her at sheministryinc@gmail.com or 803-335-8772. You can also follow them on Facebook at S.H.E Awards Min. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting o...

Dr. Jermaine Whirl has been at the helm of Augusta Tech for four years. He shares updates on partnerships with Piedmont Hospital, the City of Augusta, the Augusta National Golf Course, and auto dealers. He also discusses the profile of today's technical college students and new programs in Burke and McDuffie Counties. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the C...

Shocking numbers of children in the United States and in Georgia are not reading on grade level. Children who are not reading proficiently suffer from low self esteem and increased chances for poor health. Councilwoman Smith discusses how churches, non-profit organizations, and individuals can help. We also talk about the efforts of the Georgia Municipal Association and the connection between lite...

Traci George, Delegate to the Democratic National Convention, joins us to offer her perspective on whether there will be an attempt to nominate another candidate to run for President. She describes where her support lies and why. She also educates us on the process of becoming a delegate and the things happening behind the scenes. Learn more about Ms. George at https://www.facebook.com/traci.georg...

Alice Hardy Johnson, a recent recipient of an honorary doctorate and experienced social worker, joins us to discuss misconceptions about mental health. She also discusses her inspirational book of poetry, designed to use the scriptures to bring people through tough times. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions reg...

Host Janice Allen Jackson explores results of the two runoff elections on the June 18 ballot. We congratulate Judge Elect Charles Lyons, and Democratic nominee for Sheriff, Eugene Brantley. She delves into why the winners won, and what factors are in play when an incumbent is defeated. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, an...