Buffalo, What’s Next?

For many men, conversations about trauma, abuse, and emotional well-being remain difficult due to stigma and societal expectations. On this episode of What's Next? TaJuan Williams, author of Doscriosta, shares his personal journey as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and discusses the challenges of overcoming addiction, incarceration, and unresolved trauma. The conversation explores men's mental health, the generational impact of toxic masculinity, and the importance of creating safe spaces where men can seek support and healing without shame.

A new partnership between Jewish Family Services of Western New York and ECMC is helping individuals with serious mental illness and substance use challenges successfully transition from hospital care back into the community. On this episode of What's Next?, we explore the Adult Critical Time Intervention (CTI) program and how it works to reduce homelessness, prevent rehospitalization, and connect individuals with essential services including housing, transportation, nutrition, and behavioral health treatment. The conversation also examines the importance of addressing social determinants of health and the role collaboration plays in supporting long-term recovery.

In the final installment of What's Next?'s three-part anniversary series marking four years since the May 14 Tops mass shooting, the focus shifts from promises to outcomes. The conversation examines whether the investments and commitments made after the tragedy have translated into meaningful change for Buffalo's East Side. Topics include poverty, homeownership, employment, food access, mental health support, and the lasting effects of decades of disinvestment. Community leaders and residents also discuss the need for transparency, accountability, and coordinated efforts to address the systemic challenges facing the community.

Part two of What's Next?'s three-part anniversary series examining the aftermath of the May 14 Tops mass shooting focuses on the distribution and impact of millions of dollars raised to support Buffalo's East Side. The episode explores questions surrounding transparency, accountability, and long-term community investment while examining how funding was distributed to recovery efforts in the years following the tragedy. Survivors and community members also reflect on the ongoing challenges of accessing promised mental health and financial support.

In part one of a three-part anniversary series marking four years since the May 14 Tops mass shooting, What's Next? examines the nearly 100 million dollars pledged to support Buffalo's East Side and the families impacted by the tragedy. The episode explores how state and federal funding, corporate donations, and community fundraising efforts were distributed, while also examining the challenges survivors faced in receiving support and the lingering questions surrounding accountability and transparency. The conversation also looks at the emergency response efforts created after the shooting and the ongoing work to rebuild trust within the community.

Many people associate hospice care with the final days of life, but healthcare advocates say there are still major misconceptions surrounding both hospice and palliative care. On this episode of What's Next?, Kelly Clem of Hospice Buffalo and Palliative Care Buffalo explains the differences between the two forms of care and why early intervention can improve quality of life for patients living with chronic illness. She also discusses how palliative care helps manage symptoms at any stage of illness, while hospice focuses on comfort and support during the final months of life, including emotional and spiritual care for families.

Early literacy plays a critical role in a child's long-term success, and organizations across Western New York are working to strengthen reading skills from an early age. On this episode of What's Next?, Anne Ryan, Executive Director of Read to Succeed Buffalo, discusses the importance of teaching reading from birth through third grade and the impact of programs like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. She also highlights the success of the Experience Corps tutoring program, where volunteers work one-on-one with students in Buffalo and Niagara Falls to help improve reading outcomes and build confidence.

As Buffalo approaches the fourth anniversary of the May 14 Tops mass shooting, this episode of What's Next? centers on reflection, accountability, and community dialogue. The show begins with a panel discussion following a screening of 5/14: A Journey Here, Hope to Come, exploring Black history, economic inequities, community trust, and the ongoing challenges facing Buffalo's East Side. Then, Jay Moran speaks with I'Jaz Ja'ceil to preview part one of the upcoming anniversary special from "What's Next?," highlighting the voices, stories, and one of the biggest questions still being asked four years later: where did the money promised to Buffalo's East Side go?

In this special episode of What's Next?, we revisit powerful conversations from Truth Be Told, Buffalo Toronto Public Media's 12-part podcast series hosted by Wil Green exploring the lasting effects of systemic racism across Western New York. Through archival moments and continued discussion with guests and contributors, the episode examines Black maternal health, barriers facing first-generation college students, inequities in housing and homeownership, and the importance of preserving culture and legacy through Black-owned spaces.

Providence Farm Collective is expanding its work across Western New York with new farming initiatives, increased food access efforts, and year round operations in Orchard Park. On this episode of What's Next?, Executive Director Kristen Heltman-Weiss and Deputy Director Hamadi Ali discuss the organization's growth, including its expanding farm store, community farming partnerships, and a new DEC grant supporting urban farmers who provide food for local pantries.

Today on What's Next?, we speak with Regina Barber, physicist and host of NPR's Short Wave. Barber shares how her upbringing in a racially divided community and her love of Star Trek helped shape her path into science. She also discusses the importance of representation in media, the role of storytelling in science communication, and why making science more inclusive matters. The conversation also explores the ongoing challenges and progress around racial equity.

Today on What's Next?, we take a closer look at the future of the Kensington Expressway through the Queen City Forward initiative. The effort is focused on reimagining the corridor by engaging community members in conversations about what comes next. We speak with Taje Jenkins-Jones and Ryan Whalen of the New York State Department of Transportation about how listening sessions are helping shape the process and why input from residents, especially those most impacted, is critical. They also discussed how the project could improve accessibility, neighborhood connections, and overall quality of life.

SUNY campuses across New York are facing mounting financial challenges, with Buffalo State and SUNY Fredonia dealing with significant structural deficits. In this episode of What's Next?, Fred Kowal, President of United University Professions, discusses the impact of past budget cuts, the current funding gap, and what it means for students and faculty. He also highlights the importance of programs like the Educational Opportunity Program, which supports thousands of students each year, and calls for increased state investment to strengthen public higher education.

A new report from the University at Buffalo School of Law examines the impact of cooperation between local agencies and federal immigration enforcement, highlighting concerns about human rights and community trust. In this episode of What's Next?, we explore the findings of Ending Complicity: The Harms of State and Local Collusion with Federal Immigration Enforcement, including cases in Western New York that demonstrate the consequences of local involvement. The report also points to potential policy solutions, including the New York for All Act, and calls for clearer guidelines and stronger oversight.

On this episode we highlight three conversations heard on previous episodes. We revisit Jay Moran's sit down with Ben Hilligas Executive Director of University at Buffalo's Educational Opportunity Center. Education Advocate Jessica Bauer Walker and Community Leader Sam Radford with I'Jaz Ja'ceil and What's Next? contributor Ekua Mends-Aidoo conversation with Board Chair of Buffalo Black Nurses Syntyia Taylor.

Human trafficking remains a hidden crisis impacting vulnerable communities across the country. In this episode of What's Next?, Kelly Diane Galloway, founder of Project Mona's House, shares her journey and the mission behind her organization. She discusses the challenges survivors face, including language barriers and lack of documentation, and the importance of education and legislation in addressing trafficking. Galloway also highlights the organization's two-year residential program, which helps women rebuild their lives with a focus on stability and independence, and her work on a state task force addressing the disproportionate impact of trafficking on Black, Indigenous, and women of color.

Buffalo organizations are coming together to connect families with career opportunities and critical support services at the upcoming Strong Families, Strong Futures Workforce Development Expo. On this episode of What's Next?, Luanne Brown of the Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network and Asantewa Holley of the Northland Workforce Training Center discuss how their programs are helping individuals access job training, transportation, and family support services. They also highlight the importance of wraparound care, employer partnerships, and meeting community needs with empathy and intention.

Buying a home in Buffalo is getting harder. Rising interest rates, low inventory, and higher loan amounts are putting pressure on first time buyers, especially working-class families and non-native English speakers. Takeysha Mudzingwa and Jim Ahrens from Five Star Bank break down what's changed and share practical strategies to navigate credit, financing, and the path from pre-qualification to closing.

NOCO President and CEO Michael Casciano discusses how the company is expanding energy efficiency programs to help low- to moderate-income households in Western New York reduce energy costs. In a conversation with I'Jaz Je'ceil, he explains how free energy audits and insulation upgrades can lower bills, while also addressing the barriers many families face in accessing these programs.

As Women's History Month continues, this episode of What's Next? focuses on leadership, representation, and the ongoing push for gender equity in government. The conversation also explores the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, along with efforts to address disparities in pay, representation, and mental health support.

The University at Buffalo's Indigenous Studies Department is preparing for its annual Storytellers Conference, centered on the theme Life, Breath, Justice for Our Future. On this episode of What's Next?, Mishuana Goeman and Aaron VanEvery discuss the purpose and impact of the conference, highlighting the importance of storytelling, language, and intergenerational dialogue in Indigenous communities. They also reflect on the role of storytelling in bridging academia and community, while shaping identity and preserving culture.

Buffalo Public Schools are under scrutiny following the New York State Attorney General's investigation into student suspensions and disciplinary practices. In this episode of What's Next?, Dina Thompson of the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and training director Andy Prinzing speak with contributor Ekua Mends-Aidoo about how restorative justice can help address the root causes of student behavior, strengthen relationships in schools, and significantly reduce suspensions.

In recognition of Women's History Month, this episode of What's Next? revisits powerful conversations with women making a difference across Western New York. We begin with Sharon Sanford, founder of the Sadie Strong Project, who shares her journey as a breast cancer survivor and her mission to promote early detection, healthy living, and empowerment for women affected by breast cancer. We also hear from dietitian and nutritionist Rachel Laster as she discusses the challenges of maintaining New Year's resolutions and the importance of sustainable, long term dietary habits.

Neighborhood centers have long supported families across Buffalo, but community needs are growing. On this episode of What's Next?, Chandra Redfern, CEO of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, discusses rising demand for services including food access, childcare support, and programs for older adults. She also shares how the organization is shifting to dignity centered food shares and how a new 1.2 million dollar grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Foundation will expand respite care for caregivers.

Western New York has lost eight not-for-profit nursing homes since 2014, with providers citing chronic Medicaid underfunding and daily losses of up to $150 per resident. As lawmakers debate the New York State budget, advocates are pushing for $750 million to stabilize nursing homes and prevent more closures. Sebrina Barrett of LeadingAge New York, Hadley Horrigan of Catholic Health, and Lisa Haglund of Heritage Ministries join What's Next? for a conversation about funding, access to care, and what it means for families across the region.

The New York Attorney General's investigation into suspension practices in the Buffalo Public School system confirmed what many families have long raised as concerns. Black students are six times more likely to be suspended than white students, and Latino students four times more likely. The findings led to an Assurance of Discontinuance agreement requiring reforms, including a shift toward restorative practices, greater transparency, and oversight from an independent monitor and district ombudsman. Education advocate Jessica Bauer Walker and community leader Sam Radford join What's Next? to discuss what this agreement means for students, parents, and the future of accountability in Buffalo schools.

Emmanuel Kulu, founder of the Ancient African Antiquities Research Institute of America and creator of the Sankofa Conference, joins What's Next to discuss this year's theme, Know Thyself: A Call to the Diaspora. As the conference approaches, Kulu reflects on the importance of historical awareness, cultural identity, and reconnecting across the African diaspora. A conversation about knowledge, self-discovery, and the responsibility to understand who we are in order to shape where we are going.

British journalist and historian Zeinab Badawi joins What's Next to discuss her six-year project, The History of Africa, a sweeping 20-part series and companion book spanning 30 countries and centering African voices in the telling of the continent's story. As the virtual guest speaker for the Sankofa Conference, she reflects on why reclaiming history matters now more than ever. We also hear from community builder Juweria Dahir and her son Gerbriel Sharif, a young historian, as they discuss remembering African history beyond narratives of struggle and strengthening connections across the diaspora.

Bill O'Connell, the new Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Services, discusses his path to the organization and the systemic challenges facing public benefits programs, along with his vision for expanding access to justice. We also continue our preview of the Sankofa Conference with Talia Johnson-Huff, founder of MWBE Constructors Inc. and creator of the Black Business Curriculum.

Chantele Campbell of BestSelf Behavioral Health joins What's Next to discuss the importance of mental health in the Black community, addressing the impact of housing, workforce challenges, and other social determinants. She also highlights the role of open dialogue and Mental Health First Aid training in reducing stigma. We also hear from Kinya Baker, a registered social worker and educator participating in the upcoming Sankofa Conference, who shares her work supporting refugees and fostering empathetic conversations through Shade of Humanity Consulting. A conversation about mental wellness, empathy, and strengthening community connections.

As Buffalo prepares for the Sankofa Conference, Anthony Pierce and Selam Debs join What's Next for a conversation centered on culture, identity, and accountability. A conversation about learning from the past to build a more just future.

Leanthony Freeman joins What's Next to share his journey from Buffalo to Atlanta and his vision to open a charter school in Buffalo by 2032. Freeman will also be a panelist at the upcoming Sankofa Conference. The conversation continues with conference host Shantelle Patton of the Brown Bag Minority Business Directory, who discusses the importance of self-reflection, community, and creating space for honest dialogue. An episode focused on education, purpose, and building stronger communities.

The Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center marks 60 years of expanding access to education and job training for underserved communities. Executive Director Ben Hilligas reflects on the center's mission and impact in a conversation with Jay Moran. We also hear from Syntyia Taylor of Buffalo Black Nurses, who discusses the importance of representation, patient advocacy, and health education as she prepares to serve as a panelist at the upcoming Sankofa Conference. A conversation about access, equity, and empowering communities through education and care.

Dr. LaGarrett King joins What's Next to discuss the upcoming Sankofa Conference in Buffalo on February 28 and why history remains essential to shaping the future.

As Buffalo prepares for the first annual Sankofa Conference, Marcus Watson and Nubian Goddess join What's Next to explore the relationship between continental Africans and African diasporans. They reflect on the importance of understanding historical roots, reclaiming Black identity, and fostering self-love and community support. A conversation about healing, connection, and building community through shared history.

Buffalo Prep has spent more than three decades expanding college access for underrepresented students across Western New York. On this episode of What's Next?, Jay Moran sits down with David Johnson, the organization's incoming Executive Director, to discuss Buffalo Prep's mission, the systemic barriers students continue to face, and how long-term academic and mentoring support can change outcomes. Johnson also reflects on his own journey, and the role mentorship has played in shaping his leadership.

As the community marks Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, this episode of What's Next highlights the annual MLK Day of Service and the impact of service-driven leadership.

On this episode, we highlight three standout conversations. First, we return to our tour of the Providence Farm Collective. Then, we continue Ekua Mends-Aidoo's conversation with Charisma DuBois of the Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology. And we close out the episode with Alicia Stark from Child and Family Services.

The African American Cultural Center has completed phase one of its renovation, marking a major moment for this historic East Side institution. Interim dance and drum director Robin Hibbert, Board Chairwoman Thembi Duncan, and Executive Director Leah Angel Daniels join Jay Moran to discuss the challenges of rebuilding, the community's response, and what lies ahead as the center prepares for new programs and its upcoming Kwanzaa celebration.

The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture is partnering with Buffalo's Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor to preserve local stories and family histories. In this episode, Dr. Doretha Williams shares an update on the community curation project and why documenting everyday lives matters.

On this episode of What's Next?, we explore two ways Western New York communities are responding to need and opportunity. Jennifer Rizzo Choi, Executive Director of the International Institute of Buffalo, joins us to unpack recent shifts in U.S. immigration policy, including the review of hundreds of thousands of recently admitted refugees and the pause on asylum applications. She also shares upcoming events at the Institute, from a Meet the Ambassador series to a regional Model UN conference, designed to foster cultural understanding and engagement. We also hear from Alicia Stark of Child and Family Services about their Adopt-a-Family program. She explains how the annual initiative supports over a thousand people each year, providing everything from winter boots and books to essential household items, and how community support is critical as local needs continue to grow.

Mayor elect Sean Ryan begins building his new administration, and co-chairs Dr. Marie Cannon and Trini Ross join us to discuss the work behind the transition. With more than a thousand applications for leadership positions, they outline the team's focus on inclusivity, transparency, and community engagement. We explore the key issues shaping Buffalo's future, including housing, public safety, and financial stability, and how Ryan's vision aims to address long standing inequities with fresh, community driven solutions.

This week on What's Next? we highlight two organizations strengthening connection, access, and belonging across Western New York. First, Tim Chen of Grassroots Gardens Western New York returns to discuss the expansion of their school garden network, now reaching thirty-five schools with the support of the Buffalo Bills Foundation. He reflects on the educational and community benefits of gardening, the importance of local leadership, and the challenges created by federal funding cuts. Then, Niagara Pride leaders Ron Pia Chesney and Sherry Fossett return to share the organization's evolution from a small meetup group to a nonprofit offering festival, youth and senior programs, scholarships, and legal support for the LGBTQ community. They speak about the growing demand for safe, affirming spaces and the obstacles that come with sustaining community-driven work. A conversation about resilience, visibility, and the power of grassroots leadership.

Buffalo's East Side is growing, creating, and healing in ways that deserve the spotlight. On this episode of What's Next?, we explore two community-driven forces shaping that future. First, we dive into REACH East, a marketing accelerator designed to elevate local entrepreneurs. Program founder Tamara Zantell and entrepreneur Zandra Cunningham share how the initiative invests directly in East Side businesses through hands-on mentorship, strategic marketing training, and funding that builds long-term visibility and resilience. Then, author, counselor, and animator Dorian Withrow Jr. joins us for a powerful conversation about mental health, creativity, and emotional truth. He reflects on the realities of grief and suicide in the community, the importance of connection, and how writing and animation can become pathways to healing and understanding. A conversation about growth, care, and the future of Buffalo's East Side.

On this episode of What's Next? we speak with Terry Abrams, curator at the Niagara History Center, about the often-overlooked consequences of the Erie Canal on the Haudenosaunee people. Abrams traces the history of dispossession that accompanied the canal's construction, beginning with the Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794, which affirmed Seneca territory, and the Treaty of Big Tree in 1797, which drastically reduced it. He also examines the environmental impact of the canal, including the spread of invasive species, and the cultural and economic adjustments Native communities were forced to make as the region transformed. Through his exhibit and public talks, Abrams invites audiences to reconsider a familiar chapter in American history and confront the deeper, more complex legacy of the Erie Canal.

On this episode of What's Next? we speak with Dr. LaGarrett King following his “Black Boy Joy, Black Girl Magic” conference, which brought together nearly two hundred attendees to examine the history of Black childhoods and the creativity and resilience of Black youth.

On this episode of What's Next? we sit down with Tom Ulbrich, President and CEO of Goodwill of Western New York, and author Megan Gorman about her latest book, All the President's Money.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we reflect on the life of Ely S. Parker, Tonawanda Seneca leader, engineer, and Civil War officer who helped draft the surrender at Appomattox.

We return to the Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT) for part two of our tour. We hear contributor Ekua Mends-Aidoo, high school senior Lillyan Goines, former student Teira Newell, adult learner Giselle Akal, and Senior Program Director Charisma DuBois.

On this episode of What's Next?, we explore how cooperative businesses are driving change in Western New York. Jay Moran speaks with Andrew Delmonte, Executive Director of Cooperation Buffalo, and Terra Dumas of Farmer Pirates Compost.

On this episode of What's Next we explore leadership and opportunity in Buffalo's education landscape with Jennifer Mecozzi, a candidate for re-election to the Buffalo School Board's West District, and Gina Burkhardt, the President and CEO of Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology.