Philadelphia Community Podcast

This week, we remember Anita Conner, Co-Founder of the breast cancer awareness and resource nonprofit  Praise Is the Cure , who was laid to rest alongside the memory of her late daughter, Kerri Conner Matchet. Anita and her family launched the organization to provide life-saving resources and mammograms, partnering with trusted messengers in faith-based institutions to reach women in need. Looking...

IBX Celebrate Caring 2025 – Honoring Nurses Who Inspire We’re proud to highlight the 2025 Celebrate Caring campaign by Independence Blue Cross (IBX) —a heartfelt initiative launched during National Nurses Week that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary impact nurses make in our communities. This annual campaign recognizes nurses who go above and beyond, demonstrating compassion, resilience, and...

🎙️ Insight Episode: Philadelphia’s Global Impact and IBX Celebrate Caring In this episode, we spotlight two powerful stories—one celebrating Philadelphia’s global identity and another honoring nurses making an extraordinary difference in our communities. 🌍 Part 1: World Heritage City Celebration with Zabeth Teelucksingh We’re joined by Zabeth Teelucksingh , President & CEO of the Global Phila...

🎙️ Insight Episode: Philadelphia’s Global Impact and IBX Celebrate Caring In this episode, we spotlight two powerful stories—one celebrating Philadelphia’s global identity and another honoring nurses making an extraordinary difference in our communities. 🌍 Part 1: World Heritage City Celebration with Zabeth Teelucksingh We’re joined by Zabeth Teelucksingh , President & CEO of the Global Phila...

August is recognized in the U.S. as National Minority Donor Awareness Month , an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging organ, eye, and tissue donation within multicultural communities.  This morning we tell the story of Joshua Lee, Lung Transplant Recipient – Age 64 . Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis as a teen, Joshua Lee’s condition eventually damaged his lungs, maki...

I welcomed four inspiring guests from the  Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Calling All Girl Bosses initiative —a free, yearlong leadership program helping girls in grades 6–12 become confident changemakers in their communities. Joining us are two remarkable Girl Scouts: Jasmine Wielgoszinski from Northeast Philly and Kinsley Jackson from West Philadelphia. They’ll share how their Gold Award...

  🎧 What’s Going On – Changing the Narrative on Gun Violence + Wilmington Heart Walk Spotlight This week on What’s Going On , we speak with Sammy Caiola , Co-Director of the Association of Gun Violence Reporters , and Eric Marsh Sr. , Director of Operations at the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting . They discuss the urgent need for trauma-informed journalism and community-centered st...

In this episode of Insight , we’re highlighting three powerful community events making a difference in our region. First, we spotlight the Nicetown CDC Giveback Festival , an annual North Philly tradition filled with music, resources, and empowerment. Guests Majeedah Rashid , COO of Nicetown CDC, Zakariyya Abdur Rahman , President & CEO, and Tammy Boney , Production Manager and host, share how...

n this episode, host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with award-winning author Jason Mott, whose latest novel People Like Us delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the power of story. Mott, a National Book Award winner, shares his creative process, his thoughts on representation in literature, and what continues to inspire his work. 📚 Join Jason Mott in Philadelphia! He’ll be appearing on T...

Today’s episode is packed with powerful voices and community-driven stories—from educational planning and youth leadership to rising music talent.   First, we’re joined by Colonel Oz Hill , Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia . With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement, Colonel Hill shares how the District is invitin...

In this episode, we’re highlighting three powerful voices working at the intersection of opportunity, advocacy, and artistry. 🎧 Omar Nelson , Executive Director of the Samuel Staten, Sr. Pre-Apprenticeship Program (SSSPAP) , shares his journey from social services to leading one of the region’s most impactful workforce development initiatives. With over 20 years of experience in case management a...

Today we’re joined by Colonel Oz Hill , Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia . With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement,. This summer, the District is hosting community engagement sessions as part of Phase Eight of its comprehensive Facilities Planning Process. These sessions give families, students, and school staff...

Creating Inclusive Spaces for Individuals with Autism Fostering equity and accessibility means creating environments where everyone feels welcome. At Comcast, this mission has come to life through the development of a sensory-friendly room—designed to support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. Christina Wong, Comcast’s Executive Director and Producer of Experiential Content, joins...

On this episode of Insight , we’re highlighting powerful leaders, creative changemakers, and events that are building stronger, healthier communities. We begin with Tanya T. Morris, visionary entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and Founder/CEO of Mom Your Business . Tanya is on a mission to empower Black and Brown women entrepreneurs through access to capital, coaching, and community. Her innovative...

I speak to Rev. Herb Lusk III  about a day of purpose, remembrance, and community impact at the 7th Annual Herb Lusk Golf Classic for Children , taking place Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. Hosted by Rev. Lusk III in loving memory of his father, Rev. Herb Lusk II —the former Philadelphia Eagle and visionary faith leader—this event brings together civic leaders,...

We’re joined by Mike Papantonio , renowned trial attorney, legal analyst, and bestselling author. A senior partner at Levin Papantonio Rafferty , Mike has led high-profile legal battles against Big Pharma, tobacco companies, weapons manufacturers, and human traffickers. His latest novel, The Middleman , is a gripping legal thriller that delves into the shadowy world of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (P...

🎧 Episode Spotlight: Community, Care & Change   🩺 Brian Clark – Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc. (GPHA) Today we’re joined by  Brian Clark , Chief Executive Officer of  Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc.  — better known as  GPHA . For 55 years, GPHA has been a trusted pillar in the region, providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare to thousands of individuals and families...

Tyler Bond is the Research Director at the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), a nonprofit focused on strengthening retirement security in the U.S. He breaks down how federal policy decisions—and looming Social Security shortfalls—could impact millions of future retirees. As America faces a retirement crisis, Bond’s insights are more urgent than ever. 🔗 nirsonline.org 📱 @NIRSonline...

Today we’re joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They’re leading Trash Talkin’ — a new community conversation series addressing Philly’s illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Depa...

Today we’re joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They’re leading Trash Talkin’ — a new community conversation series addressing Philly’s illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Depa...

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati sits down with former Philadelphia City Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown , author of the powerful memoir Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels . In this candid and inspiring conversation, Blondell shares what it takes to navigate the bruising arena of big-city politics as a Black woman leader, and how she carved out a legacy of public service, resilienc...

🕊️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace Alim Howell is a passionate activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, committed to building safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to share details about the upcoming 6th Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown. Sponsored by the...

🎙️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace Alim Howell is an activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, dedicated to fostering safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to preview the 6th annual Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown . Sponsored by the Haverford Township Po...

I’m  joined by Robin Williams Sr. , CEO of Ronaj Movie Productions , and Karen Moore , Administrative Executive. We’re talking about their powerful new documentary, "The Legendary Marion Williams" —a heartfelt tribute to one of gospel music’s greatest voices. This film is more than just a biography—it’s a musical and cinematic journey that honors a legacy. From its world premiere at Pavilion Afriq...

Welcome to SpeakOUT , a monthly segment inside What’s Going On where we explore the legal, political, and cultural forces shaping the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm proud to co-host this conversation with Angela Giampolo , founder of Giampolo Law Group and the voice behind Philly Gay Lawyer . Together, we break down the headlines — from Supreme Court rulings and executive orders to grassroots re...