NEXT with Marcus Atkinson

In this powerful episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Kristy Gnibus, Executive Director of the Erie County Human Relations Commission, to discuss the recent event Race, Place, and Belonging: Being Black in Erie, held on July 17th at the Blasco Library. Part of a broader series aimed at fostering cross-community understanding, the event provided a platform for honest dialogue ar...

You hear it all the time about Generation Z (people born between – roughly – 1995 and 2010) You hear, “Those kids, Gen Z, are so lazy, entitled, and soft...” Some of that is just the usual older folk lamenting “These kids these days!!” It has been going on forever, but, there are actually some things about this generation as it comes of age – these kids are now between 15 and 30 – that does in fac...

The Human Relations Commission of Erie, PA, recently hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion titled 'Being Black in Erie.' Community leaders, activists, and residents gathered to share personal experiences, challenges, and aspirations within the city. The event underscored the importance of dialogue and action in fostering inclusivity and understanding across Erie's diverse communi...

In this episode, we explore the specifics of the shooting of Marchello Woodard, highlighting the importance of achieving justice. Our conversation revolves around why his parole officer committed this act, despite Woodard being unarmed and posing no apparent threat. Our guest, Daryl "Brother D" Craig, shares critical information and his unique perspectives, enriching our understanding of...

In this episode of NEXT2.0, Justice Sonia Sotomayor's recent dissenting court ruling has sparked significant reflection this 4th of July season. Her impassioned stance challenges us to reconsider fundamental principles of equality and justice, resonating deeply in today's charged political climate. As we celebrate our nation's independence, Sotomayor's dissent serves as a poignant...

Join Marcus Atkinson on the latest episode of NEXT2.0 as community voices converge to discuss President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran’s nuclear facility, as others sound off on social media about a fight that broke out among teenagers at an outdoor movie night. From insightful perspectives on current affairs to personal reflections, please tune in to hear diverse opinions shaping our communities t...

Boys II Men is a program developed by Anthony McGowan in Erie, Pennsylvania, focused on fostering brotherhood among young men. Mr. McGowan aims to help these young men avoid becoming statistics related to gang involvement and to treat one another like family. The program offers various resources, teaching valuable skills such as how to perform oil changes, play football, and box. These resources o...

In this inspiring episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Erie native Paul Flemmings to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the My Brother’s Keeper Scholarship, co-founded by Flemmings and sponsored by the Uplift Foundation. The conversation traces the origins of the scholarship—rooted in a deep commitment to uplift young Black men through education and community support—and explore...

In this heartfelt and timely episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Dr. Baker of Impact E.R.I.E. to explore the evolving and diverse experiences of fatherhood. From the emotional to the practical, Dr. Baker shares insights from his work in fatherhood research and community leadership, emphasizing the importance of supporting men as they strive to become better fathers, husbands,...

In this week's episode of NEXT on WQLN, Marcus Atkinson sits down with County Councilman Rock Copeland to discuss the Democratic party's endorsement of Daria Devlin for Mayor of Erie, challenging incumbent Mayor Joe Schember. Copeland shares insights into the implications of this endorsement on Erie's political landscape, highlighting key issues and the party's strategy in the lead...

In this fresh episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by intern Aaron Cronin to unpack the recent Erie County primary elections. From the surprising results of the mayoral race—featuring Daria Devlin—to shifts in the city council landscape, the team dives into the local political developments that could shape Erie's future. They highlight the notably civil tone...

Erie’s recent DEI battles between its county government, county council, mayor, and black and brown community made national headlines via The Washington Post. In a time when newly elected President Trump has declared DEI programs anathema, how will ERIE respond? We’re joined by former Erie County Council President Carl Anderson, who was sitting at the epicenter of this fact at the time. He gives u...

In this timely and challenging episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Rev. Angela Denker—Lutheran pastor, journalist, and author of the new book Disciples of White Jesus: The Radicalization of American Boyhood. Together, they explore the unsettling trend of radicalization among young white men in America, and the role that right-wing Christianity, online influencers, and cultural...

Today, we explore the contentious topic of partisan gerrymandering and its profound impact on our electoral system. Host Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Carol Kuniholm, Fair Districts PA's co-founder, expert on fair redistricting, and their NW PA Representative, Michael Bucell. They both bring extensive knowledge and advocacy to shed light on the real-world consequences of ge...

In this episode Chuck Cammarata chats with Mayor Joe Schember, running for a third term and a chance to extend his legacy of hope and service. When Joe originally ran for mayor he made it known that he wanted to rid the city of racism and make Erie a more welcoming city. He also inherited a city that was deeply in debt, had a significant urban blight problem, and a self esteem deficit. In his seve...

Would America's reaction to specific presidential actions differ if they were attributed to former President Obama rather than President Trump? The question of white (male) privilege, tolerance, and public perception weighs heavily on how political actions are judged in the public eye, shaping ongoing debates about accountability and political standards. As politically engaged citizens, it&#39...

One Hundred Black Men began in 1963 to organize African American men to explore ways to improve conditions in Black communities. The national organization, The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., was established on October 2, 1986. The organization's objectives are focused on mentorship, leadership development, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment. Join JES Scholar-in-Residence...

In this insightful episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Dr. Tyler Titus, president of the Erie School Board and a dedicated advocate for youth in the foster system. As a full-time therapist and former director of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth, Dr. Titus has spent their career fighting for the well-being of the most vulnerable members of the community. The convers...

In this special episode of NEXT 2.0, co-host Chuck Cammarata and Marc Blount sit down with Daria Devlin, lifelong Erie resident and candidate for Mayor of Erie, Pennsylvania. With a deep commitment to health, education, and economic equity, Daria shares her vision for the city's future and the transformative projects she has championed over the years. From leading a coalition that secured $14M...

In this thought-provoking episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata sit down with Amanda Tyler, lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism, and Professor Jeff Bloodworth, an expert in modern American political history and genocide studies, to define and discuss the rise of the Christian nationalist movement. Together, they examine the movement’s origins, its...

In this heartfelt episode of NEXT 2.0, special guest host Daryl Craig—better known as Brother D—leads a powerful conversation honoring the life and legacy of Sister Lou, one of Erie’s most influential and respected community figures. Joined by friends and family, Brother D explores the profound impact Sister Lou had on the streets of Erie, the lives she touched, and the community she built through...

Stories have power. Humans have always known this. We have been telling stories for millennia. Stories break down unexamined stereotypes, and connect us with one another. They build bridges and increase understanding – and ultimately are tools for building peace and cooperation. Unfortunately we live in a time where too many people are telling stories that create distrust, suspicion, and division....

In this thought-provoking episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata, along with returning guest Marc Blount, sit down with Vic Walczak, Legal Director of the ACLU, to discuss the fight against unjust executive orders. Vic shares the ACLU’s ongoing efforts to challenge policies that threaten civil liberties, the impact these actions have on the balance of power in the U.S.,...

In this dynamic episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson brings together a panel of creatives and thought leaders to unpack the cultural significance of the latest Super Bowl halftime show. Joining the discussion are Kimberly Spidle, who empowers Black women to build confidence; Mercury Moon, a musician; Jessica Baptiste, a writer, producer, and director; Alex Staley, an artist and K-5 arts teach...

In this compelling episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Matt Harris, founder of the Character: Be About It crime-prevention program, to explore the 24 core characteristics that drive personal growth and positive decision-making. Matt shares the inspiration behind launching this transformative initiative and how it’s making a real difference in communities and schools. Joining t...