Philadelphia Community Podcast

In this episode, I speak with Amanda Harrity, Director of Product Program for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP), about one of the most exciting times of the year—the return of Girl Scout Cookies! From January 16th through March 9th, Girl Scouts across Eastern Pennsylvania will be selling cookies in-person, door-to-door, at local booths, and online. But this is more than just a cookie...

I share the inspiring story of Kalyn Walker, who was granted parole from SCI Phoenix and released on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Kalyn graduated from the F.A.C.T. Experience ( Fathers and Children Together ) with his daughter in 2023, a transformative program that strengthens connections between incarcerated fathers and their children, aiming to break the cycle of incarceration. To celebrate his rel...

I speak with State Senator Sharif Street about the transformative Welcome to Wellness Pop-Up, hosted in collaboration with One Day At A Time (ODAAT) and artist Shanina Dionna. Taking place on Saturday, January 25th, from 2 PM to 3:30 PM at 2532 N. Broad Street in Pennsylvania's 3rd Senatorial District, this event focuses on expressive arts healing. Attendees will gain tools and resources to manage...

The African American Children's Book Project's 33rd Annual Book Fair is happening on Saturday, February 1st, from 1 to 4 PM at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This free event brings together bestselling authors Carole Boston Weatherford, Kwame Mbalia, Bryan Collier, and other award-winning Black authors and illustrators. Enjoy giveaways, prizes, and a bookstore with affordable books for purcha...

The African American Children's Book Project's 33rd Annual Book Fair is happening on Saturday, February 1st, from 1 to 4 PM at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This free event brings together bestselling authors Carole Boston Weatherford, Kwame Mbalia, Bryan Collier, and other award-winning Black authors and illustrators. Enjoy giveaways, prizes, and a bookstore with affordable books for purcha...

Children and young people dealing with grief, addiction, and other challenges often face an overwhelming mix of emotions, including confusion, fear, and isolation. Without proper support, these experiences can deeply affect their mental health, relationships, and development. Access to compassionate resources is vital for building resilience and fostering healing. In this episode, we speak with Sa...

Guillermo Santos is a human rights advocate, poet and author originally from  Kensington in Philadelphia. He shares his story through his literary work. Connect with Guillermo Santos: 🌐 Website: guillermoasantos.com 📱 Instagram: @guillermoasantos

Guillermo Santos is a human rights advocate, poet and author originally from  Kensington in Philadelphia. He shares his story through his literary work. Connect with Guillermo Santos: 🌐 Website: guillermoasantos.com 📱 Instagram: @guillermoasantos

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati conducts an inspiring conversation with award-winning author and illustrator Gordon C. James and talented author Quartez Harris .They share their creative journeys and the storytelling behind  Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became an Author . Discover how they bring Baldwin’s legacy to life for a new generation. Connect with the authors: Connect with the authors: G...

We re-air an interview originally broadcast in August of 2024. In 1988, 5-year-old Marcus Yates was caught in crossfire inside a corner store in Southwest Philadelphia. While the deaths of children to gun violence have become tragically commonplace, Marcus's death at that time galvanized the city and inspired me and many others to work to end gun violence. Over three decades later, the family took...

We re-air an interview originally broadcast in August of 2024. In 1988, 5-year-old Marcus Yates was caught in crossfire inside a corner store in Southwest Philadelphia. While the deaths of children to gun violence have become tragically commonplace, Marcus's death at that time galvanized the city and inspired me and many others to work to end gun violence. Over three decades later, the family took...

In this episode, we revisit an inspiring conversation with poet Lenore (Leni) Uddyback Fortson, author of Fresh Courage to Believe. Join us as we explore the themes of resilience, hope, and empowerment in her latest work. Learn more about Leni and her poetry here: Amazon Author Page .

In August 2024, I aired an interview with the Yates family—Rochelle Yates Whittington and her sons, Tony and Malcolm Yates—who tragically lost 5-year-old Marcus Yates in a 1988 shooting that shocked Philadelphia. Over 35 years later, in a journey of healing and reconciliation, the family sought to speak with the two men sentenced to life for Marcus's murder, Michael Gaynor and Ike Johnson. Through...

In August 2024, I aired an interview with the Yates family—Rochelle Yates Whittington and her sons, Tony and Malcolm Yates—who tragically lost 5-year-old Marcus Yates in a 1988 shooting that shocked Philadelphia. Over 35 years later, in a journey of healing and reconciliation, the family sought to speak with the two men sentenced to life for Marcus's murder, Michael Gaynor and Ike Johnson. Through...

I recently had the privilege of speaking with a group of middle school young men, each dressed impeccably in suits and ties. They are members of a remarkable mentoring program called Distinguished Young Gentlemen, which focuses on teaching courtesy, life lessons, and so much more. Their commitment to personal growth and excellence is truly inspiring. Distinguished Young Gentlemen

Angela Giampolo of Giampolo Law Group returns for our monthly SpeakOUT feature. This week, Angela discusses the ongoing efforts to restrict gender-affirming care for minors and examines the broader implications of rolling back DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies—particularly in awarding contracts. These changes stand to impact not only LGBTQ+ businesses but also women- and veteran-owne...

Patricia King, PECO Manager of Community Engagement, joins me to share important details about the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) —a federally funded initiative helping families cover winter heating costs. LIHEAP offers both cash and crisis grants to those facing financial difficulties. Patricia explains how to apply, eligibility requirements, and how PECO supports families in...

Record Clearing Clinic The Office of Reentry Partnership and Uplift Solutions are hosting a Record Clearing Clinic on Friday, December 20th, at the ORP Hunting Park Neighborhood Resource Center, located at 2221 W. Venango St., Suite 101, Philadelphia, PA 19140. Join us from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for this event, held in partnership with State Senator Sharif Street, State Representative Darish Parker, a...

The pandemic has brought increased awareness to the importance of mental health. I speak with Will Little, CEO of Personal Development Family and Sidewalk Therapy Life Coach, and CFO Shaheed Colen about the  free mental wellness coaching they offer to help individuals navigate life’s challenges and find balance. Connect with Will Little: 🌐 Website: willlatiflittle.com 📱 Instagram: @lifecoach_wil...

I’m joined by  Marsha Greene-Jones , Deputy Director of Employee Benefits for the City of Philadelphia. Marsha provides an in-depth look at the innovative programs designed to support the health, well-being, and work-life balance of City employees. From wellness initiatives to retirement security, we explore how these programs foster personal and professional success.   To learn more about career...

I’m joined by  Marsha Greene-Jones , Deputy Director of Employee Benefits for the City of Philadelphia. Marsha provides an in-depth look at the innovative programs designed to support the health, well-being, and work-life balance of City employees. From wellness initiatives to retirement security, we explore how these programs foster personal and professional success.   To learn more about career...

Navigating the world as both Black and gay comes with unique challenges at the intersection of race and sexuality. I sit down with Jai the Gentleman , host of the Dear Black Gay Men Podcast and founder of the Banned Book Club . Together, we delve into the powerful ways he’s elevating conversations around visibility, acceptance, and equality  Connect with Jai the Gentleman: Website: dearblackgaymen...

As housing costs continue to rise, the need for affordable, accessible homes is one of the most pressing challenges facing communities nationwide. Philadelphia Housing Authority President & CEO, Kelvin A. Jeremiah, shares details about a new partnership aimed at renovating 53 vacant and distressed homes in the rapidly changing Brewerytown neighborhood of North Philadelphia. These homes will be...

Where can you find trusted information about elections, the political process, and even how to run for office? My go-to is the Committee of Seventy, celebrating 120 years of fostering active civic engagement. I speak with Lauren Cristella, President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, about their mission and resources. Links: Website: seventy.org X: @committeeof70 Facebook: Committee of Seventy I...

Join us for another edition of Insight,  featuring Pastor Nick Taliaferro of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, as he shares details about a Citywide Prayer Gathering for our city and nation. The event takes place December 1st, 3:00-5:00 PM, at Zion Baptist Church, located at Broad and Venango. We also delve into the inspiring work of Fathers and Children Together (FACT), an extraordin...