A More Perfect Union with Nii-Quartelai Quartey

Dr. Nii-Quartelai leads a powerful and necessary conversation with bestselling author and mental health expert Dr. Robin L. Smith joins the show to explore something deeper: how Black communities navigate sustained attacks on Black political power, identity, dignity, and collective well-being — while still finding pathways toward healing, resilience, and hope. This is more than politics. This is about democracy, humanity, narrative power, and the fight to remain visible in a rapidly changing America.

Joy-Ann Reid, former MSNBC Political Analyst, award-winning journalist, and bestselling author, shares her thoughts on the redistricting fight, the state of the Democratic party, and what's next for Black America, socially and politically.

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by political and pop culture analyst Al Reynolds and Beyond Impact CEO Vincent Jones for a timely conversation about the headlines driving the national discourse. Plus, the politics behind the headlines, media narratives shaping public perception, and the cultural stakes many Americans are feeling in this political moment.

Listen as we shift to the heart of Harlem. Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by celebrated romance novelist Tiffany L. Warren. They discuss her highly anticipated new book, “A Harlem Wedding,” exploring the complexities of Black love, the nuances of urban high society, and why storytelling remains a vital form of cultural resistance and joy.

Trump vs. NYT: A discrimination lawsuit from the EEOC that's shaking up the media world, Vatican Tension: Trump lashes out at Pope Leo (again) right before Rubio lands in Rome, and more.

A sit-down with the legendary Hon. Willie Brown. The “Mayor of America” is in the house to talk about the state of Black political power and drop a bombshell—why he's officially backing Tom Steyer for California Governor.

"Stretch out" with Judge Rene Caldwell Gilbertson. As a Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge presiding over CARE Court in Norwalk, she gives us an unfiltered look at how the legal system is navigating the crisis facing our unhoused neighbors.

The Race for CA: Former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs (@MichaelDTubbs) stops by for an exclusive interview on his campaign for California Lieutenant Governor. What's the pulse of the race? We find out.

The Lost Tuskegee Airmen: Emmy Award-winning investigative correspondent and George Washington University professor Cheryl W. Thompson joins us to discuss her powerful new book. We explore why these "forgotten souls" were erased from the national narrative and what their legacy tells us about our journey toward a more perfect union.

A Renaissance in Gary: Mayor Eddie Melton joins the conversation to share how the city of Gary is leveraging the cultural momentum of the Michael biopic to fuel a new era of tourism, economic growth, and municipal pride.

The legendary Cedric the Entertainer joins us to talk about his brand new Netflix animated film, “Swapped,” and his much-anticipated return to the Broadway stage in August Wilson's "Joe Turner's Come and Gone"—his first major theatrical role in over a decade!

Death doula Darnell Lamont Walker joins us to discuss his debut book, Never Can Say Goodbye. Darnell shares his moving experiences holding space for those at life's end and offers a gentle roadmap for those navigating the quiet weight of grief. We're exploring why we stay silent about death—especially within the Black community—and how we can find comfort in the conversation.

Deborah Roberts (@deborahrobertsabc) joins us to discuss the national obsession with The Perfect Neighbor—the case that's taking Netflix by storm.

The legendary David Oyelowo (@davidoyelowo) joins us to discuss his new film Newborn—hitting AMC theaters nationwide! We talk about his incredible journey from Selma to the present day.

Grab your headphones for a soul-stirring conversation with MacArthur “Genius” Award winner Jason Reynolds. We're talking about his new audiobook Soundtrack and exploring how young adults navigate grief, identity, and life in the digital age. It's the inspiration you didn't know you needed today.

Former Atlanta Mayor and Georgia Gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms joins us for her most personal conversation yet. We discuss her new book, “Rough Side of the Mountain,” tracing her journey from the judge's bench to the White House and her fight for the future of Georgia.

A deeply personal conversation with the legendary Actor Blair Underwood (@blairunderwood_official). He joins me to discuss his beautiful new tribute to his mother's legacy, “A Soldier's Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood.”

On this episode of A More Perfect Union, powered by KBLA Talk 1580, Hunter College Associate Professor Dr. Calvin John Smiley breaks down the national headlines driving today's political moment. Hear his take on a Venezuelan opposition leader suggesting Donald Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize, Trump's renewed threat to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to Minneapolis protests, and what it all reveals about democracy and dissent. Dr. Smiley also reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and its relevance in these turbulent times.

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Wrestling Superstar Al Snow to discuss his new film "Learning You." Listen to Al's powerful pivot from the ring to the screen as he advocates for families with autism and special needs. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to the "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners — We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by two Democratic Party rising stars - Former White House trade official and U.S. House Candidate Dylan Hewitt and DNC Vice Chair & Pennsylvania State Representative Malcolm Kenyatta. Listen to why Dylan is running to defeat the conservative movement's rising star Rep. Elise Stefanik, why Rep. Kenyatta walked from North Philadelphia to Harrisburg State Capitol over Labor Day Weekend and get their take on some of the most important trending headlines. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Patrick M. Young Founder of 4 Social Peace to talk about lessons from his community violence intervention work that the media doesn't talk about nearly enough, his work on the frontlines leading the nation's first digital community violence intervention organization, and how he's remembering MLK, Jr. and Emmett Till on this bittersweet anniversary. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Attorney & Former D.C. Associate Attorney General Ryan L. Jones to share what he's hearing from the residents of D.C., his take on Trump Administration seeking death penalty in all D.C. murder cases, Trump's executive order to make suspects pay cash bail and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Civil Rights Attorney and Social Change Executive Director Todd Belcore to talk about President Trump's plan to join D.C. Police patrol, future of policing in Los Angeles vs. D.C., how the Administration is increasing mass deportation efforts by targeting 55 people with U.S. visas and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Former White House Fellow and Gary City Council President William Godwin to talk about Texas State Democrats return to legislature, Trump's vow to end vote-by-mail, Dems emerging path out of the political wilderness, and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by "Don't Talk About Politics' Author Sarah Stein Lubrano about what she calls a democracy in crisis becuase we're clinging to the myth that talking about politics changes people's minds. Listen to her research insights and argument for an altertnative way to effect the political landscape. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Bassett Vance Productions President Lynnette Ramirez ahead of their much anticipated Martha's Vineyard African-American Film Festival panel titled "The Business of Storytelling: Producing and Directing for Multiple Platforms." Later, Dr. Quartey is joined by Actor Courtney B. Vance to talk pour into this conversation as a celebrated artist and producer. Plus listen to him talk about the conversation he'll be having later in the week with the brothers on the island. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Leah Litman, Author of "Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes." Listen to her take on the Trump Administration's relentless assault on federal agencies, more than 150,000 federal workers who have accepted Trump's resignation incentives, and why every American should care. Later we tap into our conversation with Texas State Representative Christian Manuel of Select Congressional Redistricting Committee to share why the GOP redistricting battle in Texas is a dress rehearsal for the desperate measures the Republican Party is willing to take to maintain its grip on the federal government and beyond. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Tony Award Winning Actor Wendell Pierce to talk about why he thinks “The Wire” shouldn't come back, how his ownership of WBOK-AM in New Orleans helped him prepare for his role in the new “Superman” blockbuster film, plus listen to him offer his take on the politics shaping the state of the media industry and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by "Nothing More of This Land" Author Joseph Lee to talk about his sweeping exploration of Indigenous identity, weaving in the story of his own family from the beaches of Martha's Vineyard to Alaska to Northern California, the halls of the United Nations and beyond. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

In our second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by "The Life Coach" Writer, Director, Producer Patricia Bebia to talk about relationship between Black masculinity, leadership, what inspired her directorial debut, and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Immigration Lawyer Allen Orr, Founder of Orr Immigration Law to talk about dropped cases against L.A. Protestors, what it says about competence of federal prosecutors, and impact of ICE raids on L.A. Workers. Listen to his take on Black Americans moving abroad and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Social Change Executive Director and Civil Rights Attorney Todd Belcore to separate the fact from fiction on new Trump lawsuit challenging NYC sanctuary city policy and SCOTUS emergency decision on voting rights. Later listen to us talk about why Gov. Tony Evers decision to not run for a third term matters and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Mayor Tito Brown of Youngstown, Ohio to talk separate fact from fiction on-on-the-ground when it comes to national public safety trends. Listen to his take on impacts to public education in Ohio and beyond if veto override by Ohio Republicans seeking to provide property tax relief is successful. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by AMPU Political Contributor & Assistant Professor of Political Science at Columbia University Dr. Jonathan Collins. Together they remember the enduring legacy of Malcolm Jamal-Warner and the politics of his timeless character Theo Huxtable. Later listen to them react to Hunter Biden unload on Democratic Party elite and share his true feelings about Kamala Harris. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

In our first hour, author and cultural historian Shawn Levy sits down with Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey to talk about his new book, CLINT: THE MAN AND THE MOVIES, an honest look at the life and legacy of Clint Eastwood, who just turned 95. Known for his powerful biographies of Paul Newman, Jerry Lewis, and Robert De Niro, Levy shares what it takes to really understand a Hollywood legend.

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by AMPU Political Contributor & Assistant Professor of Political Science at Columbia University Dr. Jonathan Collins. Together they discuss the politics of some of the days biggest headlines and talk about why Maryland Governor Wes Moore Matters as America's only sitting Black Governor while Black America endures a cascade of attacks by a hostile Administration. Dr. Quartey even answers some of Dr. Collins questions about his observations as Gov. Moore interviewer. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

In our second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by the Founder & Executive Director of the Black Emotional and Mental (BEAM) Health Collective, Yolo Akili Robinson. Learn about how this award-winning leader is building a national network of care in collaboration with grassroots organizations on the frontlines. He is a powerful voice reshaping how Black men think about care, healing, masculinity, and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Democratic Strategist & Former South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Isaac Wilson and Former White House Fellow William Godwin to glean latest analysis on US airstrikes in Iran, White House handling of the political fallout, and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

In our second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Former U.S. Special Representative for Racial Equity & Justice and Co-Founder of The Alliance for Diplomacy and Justice, Desiree Cormier Smith. Listen to her take on President Trump's emerging Africa strategy, potential U.S. involvement in Israel-Iran conflict, and Former U.N. Ambassador's "Dolly Parton Approach." Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Actor Ed Begley, Jr. to talk about his new film "Don't Tell Larry" coming out on Amazon and Apple on June 20th. Plus listen to his vision for a more perfect union. Later we remember the lives of the Mother Emanuel families and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Immigration Lawyer Allen Orr to react to latest news on ICE raids and President Trump's latest additions to travel ban (spoiler alert 25 African countries are at risk). Listen to guidance from Allen to know your rights. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Author and Founder of the National Homelessness Law Center Maria Foscarinis to talk about her new book "And Housing for All: The Fight to End Homelessness in America." But first we get her reaction to the ICE raids in Los Angeles and other cities across America. Listen to her take on how these raids make addressing homelessness more complicated and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by KBLA Political Analyst & Columbia University Assistant Professor of Political Science Dr. Jonathan Collins. Listen to Professor Collins weigh-in on Los Angeles School Superintendent's decision to deploy school police to set up safe zones around campuses and graduations amid ICE raids, what L.A. Mayor Karen Bass told me about the matter, and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Jerron Hurtts, Sr. to talk about his continued fight for custody of his twin boys who became internet famous when he posted family videos that went viral. The court said his viral social media post amounted to child exploitation. He says the Court has it wrong as it does for many fathers fighting for their parental rights. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by "Black Men Vote" Executive Director Michael T. Bland to talk about the path forward to a more perfect union with fresh approach to Black men across America. Plus listen to his take on Tulsa Mayor vs. Maryland Governor's record on reparations and more. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by "Of Kennedy & King" Author Dr. Robert Carpenter to talk about his pulse-pounding historical thriller set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1960s America. Listen to how surviving his near-fatal hit-and-run inspired him to write this novel. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Cornel West and Nina Turner discuss the corrupting force of big money and dark money on elections. The race for the 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court has drawn $100 million. It is the most expensive state supreme court race in history and is a glaring example of why Citizens United must be overturned.

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Former Obama White House Political Appointee and PFLAG National CEO Brian Bond to talk about how the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them is growing at lightning speed in small town America. Listen to us go beyond the days trending headlines. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by comedian Kathy Griffin who talks about President Trump's return to the White House and her return to the stage on her "My Life on the PTSD List" tour. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Founder of the Haitian Women's Collective Carine Jocelyn to talk about Haitian immigrants grappling with uncertainty as end of Temporary Protective Status (TPS) looms. Later, we talk with "Night Fight" Director & Tufts University Professor Khary Saeed Jones about documenting his experience running from a racist vigilante in rural parts of Canada. His new film is creating buzz at SXSW and we can understand why. Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!

In our second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Black Veterans Project Co-Founder & Co-CEO Richard Brookshire to talk about ProPublica report on how "The Office That Investigates Disparities in Veterans' Care Is Being Liquidated" and more. Later we talk to Psychotherapist Rod Warner about his insights gleaned from his Texas-based practice focused on Black couples, Black men, and Black women. If you appreciate "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman, listen to Rod put us on to Dr. Moses Chism's "Six Pain Languages." Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners - We've got a lot to talk about!