Philadelphia Community Podcast

Did you know that a disproportionate number of people of color are on the transplant waitlist, particularly for kidneys? This episode dives into the critical need for organ donation and the impact of faith-based communities in spreading awareness through the Gift of Life Donor Sabbath. I speak with Naja Killebrew, Multicultural Affairs Specialist at the Gift of Life Donor Program, and Rev. Cheryl...

I speak with  Megan, a survivor of domestic abuse who has shown immense courage in sharing her story. Megan’s journey is a powerful example of the complexities many survivors face, often in silence. Recently, she attended iPledge, an event sponsored by Women Against Abuse that inspired her to become more involved in raising awareness and helping others. Her story is not just about the physical asp...

In partnership with the PA Conference for Women, we bring you “Women Who Inspire.” I speak with Debra Barrett, VP of Corporate Affairs at Otsuka, about their collaboration with Lundbeck to feature renowned entrepreneur, author, and Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran as a keynote speaker at the PA Conference for Women. In recognition of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Barbara will discuss her own experi...

The 17th Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival returns to the city from November 7th to 17th! This year’s theme, Reflection , invites audiences to explore transformative moments that shape our identities and aspirations. Through a lineup of inspiring, conversation-sparking films, the festival celebrates the rich diversity of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander expe...

Did you know that a disproportionate number of people of color are on the transplant waitlist, particularly for kidneys? This episode dives into the critical need for organ donation and the impact of faith-based communities in spreading awareness through the Gift of Life Donor Sabbath. I speak with Naja Killebrew, Multicultural Affairs Specialist at the Gift of Life Donor Program, and Rev. Cheryl...

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks to author Sean Pittman about his new book Disaffected, Why every Election is the Election of a Lifetime. Disaffected!  breaks down some of the most consequential elections in recent history to illustrate that every vote truly counts.  https://www.disaffectedthebook.com/   Vanesse also speaks to Derrick Corbett, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHear...

Join us on November 7th for an exciting day featuring inspirational speakers like Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Dawn Staley, Robin Arzón, Diana Nyad, and many more. Plus, your ticket includes free access to the National Conference for Women in March, a virtual event celebrating Women’s History Month with keynote speakers Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Gloria Steinem, and others. As part of our par...

Join us on November 7th for an exciting day featuring inspirational speakers like Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Dawn Staley, Robin Arzón, Diana Nyad, and many more. Plus, your ticket includes free access to the National Conference for Women in March, a virtual event celebrating Women’s History Month with keynote speakers Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Gloria Steinem, and others. As part of our par...

Digital equity ensures fair and inclusive access to technology, information, and resources, enabling everyone—especially historically underserved communities—to fully participate in the digital world. In this episode, I speak with Broderick Johnson, Executive Vice President of Public Policy and Digital Equity at Comcast, about the efforts to bridge the digital divide. Learn more: Philadelphia.comc...

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10-24. In this episode, we explore how families, schools, and communities can work together to recognize warning signs, provide support, and create safe spaces where young people feel comfortable seeking help. I speak with Jessica R. Umbrell, Psy. D., Senior Psychologist Advisor at PerformCare, a behavioral health organization an...

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can be life-altering for those living with it. Today, we’ll discuss what lupus is, how it impacts daily life, and the challenges many face in getting proper care. We’ll also explore the hope that ongoing research brings and talk about the 2024 Lupus Loop event with Shawn Triggs, Regional Director for the Lupus Foundation of America Pennsylvania Delaware V...

Robbin Maddox, a breast cancer survivor, maintained a positive attitude throughout her battle and was inspired to create The She Shines Conference . We’ll dive into this empowering event, which takes place on November 9th, featuring inspiring speakers, workshops, and women-owned businesses. Learn more at sheshinesconference.com .   Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that profoundly impacts thos...

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...

 Angela Giampolo of Giampolo Law Group joins us for our monthly SpeakOUT feature, where we explore critical topics affecting the LGBTQIA community. This week, we discuss October as LGBT History Month and the significance of National Coming Out Day in 2024. Learn more at: Philly Gay Lawyer | Giampolo Law Group  

East Falls is rapidly evolving into a vibrant neighborhood destination, featuring a variety of restaurants, businesses, and new residential developments, all nestled alongside the Schuylkill River. I chat with Michelle Feldman, Executive Director of the East Falls Development Corporation, about the exciting things happening in the area and the upcoming East FallsFest! Hosted by the East Falls Deve...

In this high-stakes election, it's crucial that voters know their rights and where to turn for help. I speak with Danitra Sherman, Deputy Advocacy and Policy Director at ACLU of Pennsylvania, and Marian Schneider, Senior Policy Counsel for Voting Rights at ACLU of Pennsylvania, to discuss key resources for voters. Find your polling location: Visit vote.pa.gov to locate your in-person voting site....

Quitting smoking is challenging, but there are resources available to help. In this segment, I talk with Ryan Coffman (he/him), MPH, CHES, CTTS-M, who manages the Tobacco Policy and Control Program for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. Ryan discusses the PA Free Quitline and other free resources designed to support you on your journey to becoming tobacco-free. Website and Social Media:...

iHeartMedia is proud to sponsor the Pennsylvania Conference for Women on November 7th —an exciting day featuring Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Dawn Staley, Robin Arzón, Diana Nyad , and many more inspiring speakers. Plus, your ticket includes free access to the National Conference for Women —a virtual event during Women’s History Month that will feature Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Gloria Steine...

iHeartMedia is proud to sponsor the Pennsylvania Conference for Women on November 7th —an exciting day featuring Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Dawn Staley, Robin Arzón, Diana Nyad , and many more inspiring speakers. Plus, your ticket includes free access to the National Conference for Women —a virtual event during Women’s History Month that will feature Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Gloria Steine...

iHeartMedia is proud to sponsor the Pennsylvania Conference for Women on November 7th —an exciting day featuring Martha Stewart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Dawn Staley, Robin Arzón, Diana Nyad , and many more inspiring speakers. Plus, your ticket includes free access to the National Conference for Women —a virtual event during Women’s History Month that will feature Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Gloria Steine...

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with James Claiborne, Deputy Director for Community Engagement at the Barnes Foundation, about their latest initiatives and efforts to engage the Philadelphia community. Learn more about the Barnes Foundation here. In her feature, "What is Philadelphia Reading?", Vanese interviews Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, acclaimed children's book author, about her book t...

In this episode, we explore three impactful conversations: Cerebral Palsy Awareness & Community Support I speak with Ceciry Rodriguez-Pimentel , Director of Development & Community Engagement, and Christina Service , Marketing & Development Specialist at HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy. They share insights about the school’s upcoming 3rd Annual Community Day in celebration...

In this episode, we explore three impactful conversations: Cerebral Palsy Awareness & Community Support I speak with Ceciry Rodriguez-Pimentel , Director of Development & Community Engagement, and Christina Service , Marketing & Development Specialist at HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy. They share insights about the school’s upcoming 3rd Annual Community Day in celebration...

With so many scams out there, it’s important to know the red flags that can keep you and your loved ones safe. In this episode, I sit down with U.S. Postal Inspector George Clark , who gives us an inside look at some of the most common scams, how they operate, and tips to avoid falling victim. Learn how to protect yourself from fraud and spot potential scammers before it’s too late. For more infor...

In today’s housing market, many aspiring homeowners face significant challenges when trying to buy their first home. I speak with David S. Thomas, CEO of PHDC, Philadelphia’s full-service community development organization, about the upcoming PHDC Housing Fair 2024. This event offers crucial resources for first-time homebuyers, as well as support for longtime residents needing assistance with home...