A More Perfect Union with Nii-Quartelai Quartey

What does it mean to risk everything — your life, your family, your future — for a stranger? Filmmaker Nick Davis joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai to talk about This Ordinary Thing — a haunting, necessary, and profoundly human documentary about the non-Jews who chose to stand in the gap when the world fell silent. During one of history's darkest chapters, these ordinary people made an extraordinary decision: to save Jewish lives at any cost. In a moment when the word courage gets thrown around cheaply, this film reminds us what it actually demands. This is a conversation about history, humanity, and the moral choices that define us — especially when no one is watching.

America is at war — again. The U.S. military has launched strikes against Iran following the downing of an Army Apache helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz. Both pilots are safe. The bombs, however, are very real — and your gas prices are already telling the story. Meanwhile, ICE is pushing facial recognition surveillance that should have every American paying attention. And if that weren't enough, Donald Trump showed up to Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden — and got booed by an entire arena. His response? Calling sports media giant Stephen A. Smith "low IQ." NBA Hall of Fame Kinfolk and Activist Joshua Zeke Thomas and Data Science and Analytics Leader Germar Reed join Dr. Nii-Quartelai to break down a week where every headline felt like a five-alarm fire.

A federal whistleblower exposed DOGE's unauthorized data grab — and within hours of Elon Musk publicly targeting him, someone cut his brake lines. California's primary ballots are still being counted, and Donald Trump is already on Truth Social at 1 a.m. screaming fraud before a single race is called. An LAPD internal report just used a word you never want to see attached to police officers: gang. Hunter College Professor and Author Dr. Calvin John Smiley joins us to break it all down.

Debut filmmaker Toroes Thomas joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai fresh off the premiere of his narrative feature Sr. at the 2026 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) — and he came to tell the truth. Drawn directly from Toroes's own life and the sudden, shattering loss of his father, Sr. is a film about love, grief, fatherhood, and what it means to find your footing when the person who was supposed to hold it together — couldn't. We go deep on the craft of storytelling, the raw economics of Black independent film, the emotional weight of turning personal pain into public art, and what Toroes wants every young filmmaker watching to hear. This isn't just a conversation about movies. It's a conversation about what we carry, what we create, and how we survive.

Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Phill Branch sits down with Dr. Nii-Quartelai to go deep on his powerful new memoir, The Double Dutch Fuss — a searing, unflinching account of what it truly costs to be a queer Black boy in a world designed to punish you for it. Branch doesn't flinch, doesn't sanitize, and doesn't apologize. This is a conversation about survival, identity, creative resistance, and what happens when you refuse to shrink yourself to make others comfortable. You don't want to miss this one.

Two powerhouse voices on the mic today — #OscarsSoWhite creator April Reign and Color of Change Advocate & Attorney Michael Huggins. We're covering the World Cup and what it means for Los Angeles, a stunning story at the intersection of Africa and immigration you haven't heard anywhere else, Iowa's latest attack on Black scholarship funding, and the growing pressure surrounding Mayor Karen Bass. And yes—before we're done, we are settling the fried chicken debate once and for all.

Actor Greg Mathis Jr. on What Survives — a world premiere play at the Hollywood Fringe Festival about a child taken by ICE and the community left to reckon with it.

U.S. Senator Cory Booker on the House's bipartisan rebuke of the Iran war, unfolding humanitarian crisis in Cuba, Congressional Black Caucus's college sports standoff, and what courage looks like when the country is tired.

Leaked documents expose a white supremacist organization doubling in size every year, now operating in 49 states. Jewish Columbia faculty file antisemitism claims — because they were punished for being the wrong kind of Jewish. Medicaid work requirements could end coverage for people fighting cancer and living with HIV. And Pete Hegseth is reshaping the military in his image — one promotion list at a time. Bishop Joseph Tolton, Founder of Interconnected Justice, brings moral clarity to it all.

The Freedom 250 concert is falling apart, the housing secretary is now running U.S. intelligence, and Spencer Pratt might be the next mayor of Los Angeles. It's Primary Day, the World Cup is days away, SoFi Stadium workers are ready to walk out, and Jill Biden just dropped a book nobody asked for. Civil rights leader Linda Sarsour joins us to talk about democracy, diplomacy, and the road ahead.

Senator Chris Murphy joins us for an extended conversation on his new book “Crisis of the Common Good” — and what it will actually take to rebuild trust in a democracy that's fracturing in real time.

Shanti Das, founder of Silence The Shame, is sounding the alarm: federal budget cuts have gutted over $600,000 in funding for mental health services in Black communities and underserved populations. Her organization needs your support NOW—and she's here to tell you why this fight is personal.

The King of Pop comes alive on the big screen. We sit down with actor KeiLyn Durrel Jones, who portrays Michael Jackson's legendary bodyguard and confidant Bill Bray in Antoine Fuqua's record-breaking biopic Michael.

Allen Orr Jr. is an immigration attorney who has been on the front lines as this administration has reshaped — some would say dismantled — the immigration system and federal politics as we know it.

Tai Beauchamp has been a force in media and wellness for over two decades. She's a beauty editor, entrepreneur, author, television host, and now the host of The Shift — a groundbreaking new digital show on BET.com that gives everyday women access to the kind of boardroom wisdom usually only a select few get to hear.

ICE raids. Travel bans on Black nations. Corporate America cashing in on deportation. And 10 million Black immigrants are in the crosshairs. On this episode, we don't just talk about the fire. We talk to the people fighting it. Nana Gyamfi, Executive Director of Black Alliance for Just Immigration, joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai to break down Operation Break the ICE Machine and why WeMakeThemStop.org is the campaign every Black person in America needs to know RIGHT NOW. Plus, Bishop Joseph Tolton, Founder of Interconnected Justice, connects the global assault on Black bodies from San Diego to the UN.This is the show. This is the moment. WeMakeThemStop.org — visit it, share it, live it.

The DNC finally released its long-awaited autopsy of the 2024 campaign. We will dig deep into what it says, what it leaves out, and what it means for the Democratic Party going forward with our Resident Democracy Scholar Dr. Jonathan E. Collins, Professor of Political Science at Columbia University.

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.

CBS News correspondent and author Jonathan Vigliotti joins us to discuss his new book, Torched. We explore his firsthand account of the devastating 2025 L.A. wildfires, the political mismanagement that "let the city burn," and the high-stakes rush to rebuild ahead of the 2028 Olympics.

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!