KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Marklyn T. Johnson joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss Pull Up a Chair: An Honest Conversation About Race in America, a book that combines real-life interviews, personal stories, and research to encourage thoughtful conversations about race in the United States. Rather than speaking only from his own perspective, Johnson amplifies the voices of everyday people and concludes each chapter with a "Mirror Moment," inviting readers to examine their own beliefs, experiences, and relationships. He also explains why he added a chapter addressing today's evolving conversations about race and how the book is intended to foster understanding rather than assign blame. The conversation explores how honest dialogue, practical action, and a willingness to listen can help people build stronger connections across differences and move toward meaningful change.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Peyton Scott Russell joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss a community mural project made possible through a Minnesota State Arts Board grant that brought together North High School students, emerging artists, and local organizations. He shares how the project began with an artist residency focused on expressive portraiture, encouraging students to explore creativity and self-expression by studying influential artists such as Picasso, Basquiat, and Butler. The second phase paired North High students with members of Russell's advanced SPRAYFiNGER program, creating one-on-one mentorships that culminated in a collaborative public mural. Russell also highlights the many businesses, artists, and community partners whose support demonstrates how public art can inspire young people, strengthen neighborhoods, and bring communities together. He said that there will also be an official unveiling of the mural on Saturday, July 18th on the corner of Penn & Broadway.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Lyneir Richardson joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss an innovative wealth-building opportunity that could transform commercial real estate ownership in North Minneapolis. As CEO of The Chicago TREND Corporation, Richardson explains how Hawthorn Crossings Shopping Center is being positioned as Minnesota's first community co-owned shopping center, giving local residents the chance to invest in and benefit from a major neighborhood asset. He highlights the importance of expanding access to commercial property ownership, which has traditionally been concentrated among a small percentage of investors, and shares details about special matching funds available to qualifying residents who live near the shopping center. The conversation also explores why North Minneapolis is poised for growth, how community ownership can help strengthen local economies, and what interested investors need to know before the July 31 deadline to become co-owners.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Darrail Hughes joins Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of PCYC Freedom Schools and how the Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools program helps prevent summer learning loss while empowering young people through literacy, enrichment, and leadership development. He highlights this year's National Day of Social Action on July 15, when scholars will march along West Broadway in North Minneapolis to raise awareness around the theme, “Are the Children Well?” with a focus on mental health and social-emotional wellness. Hughes explains why providing young people with opportunities to have their voices heard is essential to building stronger communities and brighter futures. He also recognizes the statewide network of Freedom Schools, including fellow Minneapolis sites at Nellie Stone and Lutheran Social Services, that are working together to support and uplift children throughout the summer.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Rose McGee joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie® and how storytelling continues to bring people together across cultures and communities. She reflects on the recent 30th anniversary production of her acclaimed play, Kumbayah: The Juneteenth Story, which celebrates the history and enduring significance of Juneteenth through music, storytelling, and community engagement. McGee also previews the Annual Pie Showcase on July 15, where participants are invited to share a favorite pie and the personal, cultural, or family story behind it, demonstrating how food can spark meaningful conversations and deeper connections. She concludes by looking ahead to Sweet Potato Comfort Pie's annual Martin Luther King Jr. community celebration in January and encourages listeners to stay connected with the organization's upcoming events and opportunities to build community together.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala joins Chantel Sings to discuss AARP Minnesota's 2026 Community Challenge grants, which are supporting 18 projects across the state that improve quality of life and help communities become more livable for residents of all ages. He highlights initiatives ranging from technology training for older adults and innovative home-sharing programs to safer streets, improved public spaces, transportation assistance, and accessibility enhancements. Haapala explains how small investments can spark lasting community change and encourages local organizations to explore ideas that can be replicated in communities throughout Minnesota. The conversation also emphasizes AARP's decade-long commitment to helping people live independently, stay connected, and thrive as they age.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Dr. Barbara Hutchinson joins Chantel Sings to discuss ATTR-cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CM), a serious and progressive heart condition that is frequently misdiagnosed because its symptoms often resemble normal aging or other forms of heart failure. She explains why common warning signs—including shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs or feet, irregular heartbeat, and even conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome—should not be ignored, particularly since one in 25 Black Americans carries a genetic variant associated with hereditary ATTR-CM. Dr. Hutchinson also highlights new survey findings showing that 95% of Black women surveyed had never been screened for the condition, underscoring the need for greater awareness and earlier diagnosis. The conversation encourages listeners to have informed discussions with their health care providers about persistent symptoms and the importance of early evaluation and appropriate care.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Dr. Janice M. Williams-Porter joins Freddie Bell to discuss the inspiration behind her new book, The Women's Leadership Blueprint, and why effective leadership begins with self-awareness, clarity, and strong personal values. Drawing from more than three decades of experience in education and executive leadership, she shares practical strategies for helping women develop confidence, strengthen communication, make purposeful decisions, and lead authentically without imitating others. Dr. Porter also explains how meaningful relationships, mentorship, and professional networks contribute to long-term leadership success while overcoming challenges with integrity. The conversation highlights how The Women's Leadership Blueprint serves as both a guide and a leadership development pathway for women at every stage of their personal and professional journey.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Floyd Jones joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of BackBlack and its work connecting Black-led nonprofits with funding, resources, and greater visibility. He highlights the impact of investing in organizations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and shares how BackBlack helped direct more than $11.5 million to Black-led nonprofits last year. Jones also previews Black Philanthropy Month in August, a global celebration of generosity, community leadership, and collective impact, centered on the theme “Many Voices. One Movement.” The conversation explores Minnesota's vibrant Black philanthropic ecosystem and encourages listeners to support local organizations through volunteering, mentoring, advocacy, and charitable giving. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Damon Jenkins, Senior Vice President and Minnesota Regional Market President for First Independence Bank, joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to discuss the grand opening of the bank's new St. Paul branch in the heart of the Frogtown and Rondo communities. As Minnesota's first Black-owned bank and a Minority Depository Institution, First Independence Bank is expanding its commitment to financial education, homeownership, small business growth, and wealth-building opportunities. Jenkins explains why the bank chose to partner with the Neighborhood Development Center and how the new location will serve residents, entrepreneurs, and families throughout St. Paul. The conversation also explores the importance of community banking, economic empowerment, and creating pathways to generational wealth for future generations. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Reverend James Stacey, Minister of Unity South Twin Cities in Bloomington, joins Freddie Bell for the Community Builders Series to discuss the power of community building through service, compassion, and shared purpose. Drawing on decades of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership, Rev. Stacey shares how the simple question, "How can we help?" has guided his congregation's work and strengthened relationships across communities. He reflects on how Unity South supported a neighboring Hispanic/Latino congregation during and after the ICE surge, providing financial assistance and encouragement to families facing fear, housing instability, and uncertainty. The conversation highlights the importance of showing up for one another, building bridges across cultures, and creating communities where people feel seen, honored, and respected.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Natalia Terfa joins Freddie Bell to discuss her new book, It All Counts. Drawing from her experiences as a pastor, writer, and community member, Terfa explores how ordinary moments, relationships, and daily choices can carry profound meaning, even when life feels overwhelming. She shares insights on cultivating hope, paying attention to what matters most, and finding purpose in the midst of busy schedules and uncertainty. The conversation offers listeners practical ways to embrace gratitude, deepen connections with others, and recognize that every act of kindness, courage, and compassion truly counts. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Anika Robbins, Founder and CEO of the ANIKA Foundation, joins Chantel Sings to discuss Juneteenth Minnesota 2026: A Family Celebration, taking place June 19 at the Minnesota State Capitol. The free, family-friendly event commemorates the 160th anniversary of emancipation while celebrating Black history, culture, music, and community through live performances, educational resources, food, art, and entrepreneurship. Robbins highlights performances by Billboard-charting R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn, local musicians, and the event's recognition of community leaders through the Community Griot Awards. The conversation also explores the importance of Juneteenth, the impact of scholarship opportunities for students and adult learners, and how the celebration continues to unite generations through reflection, empowerment, and joy.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, best-selling author, poet, and journalist Clint Smith joins Freddie Bell to discuss his acclaimed book How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning With the History of Slavery Across America and his upcoming appearance as the featured speaker at the Minnesota Humanities Center's Juneteenth Brunch. Smith reflects on why confronting the history of slavery is essential to understanding the United States today, how communities can build a nation that lives up to its highest ideals, and why efforts to erase African American history are ultimately unsuccessful. The conversation explores the power of storytelling, historical memory, and public dialogue in shaping a more informed and equitable future. Smith also shares insights from his work as a writer and educator and discusses the enduring importance of Juneteenth as a moment for reflection, celebration, and collective learning. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Helen Ferraro and Patrick Bass join Freddie Bell to discuss the upcoming Juneteenth Celebration at Centennial Lakes Park in Edina. The event brings together community organizations, local leaders, Black-owned businesses, artists, performers, and resource providers for an afternoon focused on empowerment, education, culture, and connection. Attendees can enjoy live music, dance, spoken word performances, youth activities, book giveaways, interactive art experiences, and more than 30 community resource tables. Organized through partnerships between the Anti-Racism Collective, the Joint Community Police Partnership Liaison, the Cities of Edina and Richfield, and numerous community volunteers, the celebration honors the spirit of Juneteenth while creating opportunities for learning, unity, and community engagement. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Kia Bratz, Manager of Marketing Events at Mystic Lake Hotel Casino, joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to preview The Great Midwest Rib Fest, taking place June 25–27 in Prior Lake. She discusses the family-friendly event featuring award-winning pitmasters from across the country, free live entertainment, food vendors, and the opportunity for attendees to vote for their favorite ribs. Kia also highlights the growing rivalry between Minnesota-based Just North of Memphis BBQ and Carolina BBQ, two family-connected teams competing for top honors. The conversation includes details about the World Rib Eating Championship, cash prizes for competitors, and what visitors can expect during one of the region's biggest summer food festivals. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Shawna Frazier and Fola Badwas join Chantel Sings to discuss The Next Chapter Home Tour, a special event designed to help individuals and families explore downsizing, right-sizing, and new construction options with confidence. Shawna explains why more homeowners are reconsidering what they need in a home and shares common questions people have about building new, financing options, and builder incentives available in today's market. Listeners will also hear practical advice about what to know before selling one home and buying another, along with how touring multiple communities in one day can provide clarity—even for those not planning an immediate move. The conversation also highlights event details for the Saturday, June 20 tour, including a complimentary lunch, mortgage insights from special guest speaker Fola Badwas, and how to register by texting “NEXT” to 952-220-0582.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Emmy Award-winning actor, director, and producer Leonard Searcy, alongside acclaimed producer Brenda Gilbert joins Freddie Bell to discuss MegaMiXer 2026, a three-day event bringing together creatives, entrepreneurs, and entertainment professionals from across film, television, music, sports, fashion, and media. Leonard shares how MegaMiXer was created to open doors, create opportunities, and showcase Minnesota's untapped creative talent while giving attendees direct access to industry leaders and decision-makers. Brenda reflects on her remarkable journey co-founding BRON Studios, producing award-winning films, and her upcoming fireside chat, “Peaks & Perils: Founding Your Production Company,” where she'll discuss the highs, challenges, and lessons of building a production company. Together, they explore why collaboration across entertainment industries matters, why Minnesota is poised to become a creative powerhouse, and how MegaMiXer is helping diverse voices find their place in the global entertainment economy.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Minnesota Realtor Shawna Frazier joins Freddie Bell to discuss The Next Chapter Home Tour, a special event designed to help individuals and families explore downsizing, right-sizing, and new construction options with confidence. Shawna explains why more homeowners are reconsidering what they need in a home and shares common questions people have about building new, financing options, and builder incentives available in today's market. Listeners will also hear practical advice about what to know before selling one home and buying another, along with how touring multiple communities in one day can provide clarity—even for those not planning an immediate move. The conversation also highlights event details for the Saturday, June 20 tour, including a complimentary lunch, mortgage insights from special guest speaker Fola Badwas, and how to register by texting “NEXT” to 952-220-0582.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Basketball Hall of Famer & Big3 coach Nancy Lieberman and Prostate Cancer Foundation President & CEO Gina Carithers join Freddie Bell to discuss a powerful new partnership between the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Ice Cube's BIG3 basketball league aimed at saving lives through early prostate cancer detection. They explain the “Check the Box! Saving Lives Together” campaign, which encourages men—especially Black men who face significantly higher risks—to take three simple steps: talk to a doctor, take a PSA blood test, and learn their PSA score. The conversation highlights the urgent need for awareness, the role sports can play in reaching communities, and how free screening opportunities at select BIG3 events are helping remove barriers to care. Lieberman also shares why using basketball as a platform for health advocacy can inspire action both on and off the court. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Malik Rucker, founding Executive Director of V3 Sports, joined Freddie Bell for the "Community Builders Series" to discuss his North Minneapolis roots and the experiences that inspired his mission to invest in the community through health, wellness, and opportunity. A fifth-generation Northsider, Rucker reflected on the vision behind V3 Sports and how the organization has grown from a one-person operation into a major nonprofit serving families through fitness, aquatics, youth programming, and education. He explained that V3's mission extends far beyond athletics, focusing on building healthier communities, creating access, and strengthening economic empowerment through intentional partnerships with Northside businesses. Rucker also shared the pride he feels seeing the completed first phase of the V3 Center in action and looked ahead to Phase II, which will bring an Olympic-sized pool and expanded programming to further serve the community. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Reverend William Pierce and Sannia Eliza joined Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to preview the 3rd Annual Miss Juneteenth Minnesota Pageant, celebrating Black excellence, leadership, and the historical significance of Juneteenth. They discussed the pageant's continued growth, including the addition of Mister and Mr. Juneteenth divisions and new age categories, bringing together more than 30 contestants competing for scholarships, awards, and opportunities for personal development. The conversation highlighted how the nonprofit pageant program goes beyond competition by offering mentorship, financial literacy, healthy lifestyle education, networking, and career exposure designed to empower Black youth and adults across generations. Listeners also learned about the June 6 event at North Central University's Trask Worship Center, featuring a special performance by the legendary group Sounds of Blackness and the crowning of Minnesota's newest Juneteenth royalty.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, LaVina Branscomb joined Chantel Sings to share how her North Minneapolis roots and personal journey have shaped her work as a multimedia artist blending graphic design, painting, digital art, and community storytelling. After losing her mother to breast cancer, Branscomb turned to art as a source of healing and transformed that experience into a mission to spread joy, uplift others, and celebrate community voices. She discussed her participation in The People's Artist competition, a national showcase recognizing artists who use creativity to inspire healing, connection, and social impact, with the winner receiving a $25,000 prize, a feature in Artforum magazine, and an exhibition opportunity in Los Angeles. Branscomb also reflected on the importance of young people seeing artists who reflect their neighborhoods and experiences, while honoring her mother's legacy by pouring love and purpose into her work. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala of AARP Minnesota joined Chantel Sings to review key outcomes from the 2026 Minnesota legislative session and discuss bipartisan efforts to improve financial security and quality of life for older adults. Haapala highlighted new legislation banning cryptocurrency kiosks beginning August 1, citing their growing use in scams and the difficulty victims face recovering stolen funds. He also discussed the expansion of Attorney General restitution funds for fraud victims, updates to Medicare coverage options for Minnesotans with pre-existing conditions, and strengthened protections for residents in assisted living, nursing facilities, and homeowners associations. Throughout the conversation, Haapala emphasized AARP's nonpartisan advocacy approach and encouraged listeners to get involved as volunteers working to shape policies that help people age with dignity and security. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Kevin Lindsey, CEO of the Minnesota Humanities Center, joined Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to preview a series of Juneteenth events designed to celebrate African American history, culture, and community while reflecting on the nation's continued pursuit of liberty and justice for all. Lindsey highlighted signature events including a Juneteenth Brunch and Community Conversation featuring bestselling author Clint Smith, Feeding Our Souls: The Essence of Juneteenth Joy with Black chefs and music from VocalEssence, the 30th anniversary performance of Kumbayah The Juneteenth Story, and a documentary screening of The Making of America. He discussed the importance of storytelling, shared history, and cultural celebration in building a more curious, connected, and compassionate society. Lindsey also encouraged listeners to register early for events, learn more about Minnesota Humanities Center programming, and take advantage of special ticket discounts for KMOJ listeners.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams joined Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to spotlight a season of celebration across Minneapolis Public Schools, highlighting the accomplishments of students, educators, and athletic teams. She congratulated music educators Lesley Earles and Laurie Meyers for being named quarterfinalists for the 2027 Grammy Educator of the Year Award and recognized the district's 2026 Athena Award winners for excellence in athletics and leadership. Dr. Sayles-Adams also celebrated championship moments for Anthony Middle School girls flag football, Roosevelt High School's adapted bowling team, and Southwest High School's Unified soccer team, while applauding Olson Middle School teacher James Ellis for earning Fox9's Top Teacher Award. The conversation wrapped with excitement around the Class of 2026 as MPS prepares for 15 graduation ceremonies and encourages seniors to dream big and continue making a difference.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, bdifferent joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss his new single, Done Looking 4 Love, dropping May 29, and the inspiration behind his latest music. He reflects on how Minneapolis has become a second home since 2020, sharing how the city embraced his early performances and played a role in his artistic growth. The conversation highlights his upcoming headline show, which features a carefully curated lineup of Minneapolis talent and reflects his commitment to supporting and investing in the local music community. bdifferent also talks about the growing national attention around his career, including support from artists and athletes like Hunxho, K Camp, CeeDee Lamb, and Kevin Durant, as well as the success of his 2026 mixtape Come On!!, which has amassed nearly four million streams. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chief Joe Dotseth joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss his vision for public safety across the Twin Cities transit system and how the Metro Transit Police Department is taking a whole-community approach to policing. He explains how beat policing, neighborhood engagement, and partnerships with social service organizations are helping improve safety while connecting riders experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges to support. Dotseth also highlights outreach efforts, including the Northside Community Engagement Team and initiatives designed to build trust between law enforcement and the communities Metro Transit serves. The conversation explores early results from Metro Transit's Safety and Security Action Plan, including increased proactive policing efforts and reductions in serious crime across the transit system.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Leslie E. Redmond joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to reflect on the significance of the sixth anniversary of George Floyd's murder and why preserving truth and collective memory remains essential in this moment. She discusses Win Back's annual Day of Remembrance, which brings together civic leaders, families, and community members to honor Floyd's legacy through healing, reflection, and action. Redmond previews this year's events, including the Yellow Flower Ceremony at George Floyd Square, scholarship presentations for local youth, and a historic conversation featuring representatives from the families of George Floyd and Emmett Till. The conversation also highlights Win Back's year-round work in youth mentorship, civic engagement, and community healing, emphasizing the importance of turning remembrance into lasting impact. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Marquita W. Stephens joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss her historic leadership as the first female President & CEO of Urban League Twin Cities and how the organization is responding to today's political and economic climate. She shares how Urban League Twin Cities continues to provide critical workforce services, helping individuals gain skills, secure employment, and build long-term stability. Stephens also highlights the organization's family stabilization efforts, designed to support families navigating economic uncertainty and systemic barriers. The conversation explores the importance of investing in youth development, including the need for continued funding for summer programs that create safe spaces, leadership opportunities, and pathways to success for young people. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Principal Erik Hensel joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to celebrate a major milestone as Emerson Dual Language Elementary School marks 100 years as a cornerstone of the Loring Park community. He shares the history of Emerson's Spanish immersion program, one of the oldest in Minnesota, and explains how the school's dual language model helps students build bilingual skills, cultural awareness, and academic success. Hensel gives listeners a preview of the Emerson Centennial Celebration on May 29, featuring student performances, cultural dance groups, food, and opportunities for the community to reconnect and share memories. The conversation also highlights how Emerson continues to serve families from across Minneapolis while honoring a century of learning and community connection. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Kevin Lindsey joins Freddie Bell to discuss what festivals reveal about Minnesota's identity and why communities across the state are eager to gather, celebrate, and share traditions. He explains how the Minnesota Humanities Center's festival grants support events that preserve stories, food, music, and cultural heritage while creating opportunities for neighbors to connect and learn from one another. Lindsey highlights the strong demand for funding, with applicants requesting more than $14 million this year, underscoring the value Minnesotans place on joyful, community-centered experiences. The conversation also explores the economic and cultural impact of festivals in both metro and rural communities, while previewing upcoming Minnesota Humanities Center initiatives, including Juneteenth events and new grant opportunities.

James Burroughs joins Freddie Bell to discuss the important work happening at Children's Minnesota and the organization's ongoing commitment to improving the health and well-being of children and families across the region. He shares how his leadership role connects equity and inclusion efforts with advocacy, government affairs, and community partnerships to address social determinants of health. The conversation also highlights how Children's Minnesota is strengthening organizational culture, supporting patient quality initiatives, and building deeper relationships with the communities it serves. Burroughs explains how new executive leadership roles are helping drive innovation, collaboration, and long-term impact for Minnesota families.

Terace Johnson joins Freddie Bell to discuss The Great Minnesota Career Expo, a major workforce development event designed to connect Minnesotans with career pathways, employers, and hands-on industry experiences. Hosted by Spotlight Staffing, the expo will take place May 21 at the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront and features interactive demonstrations in aviation, skilled trades, culinary arts, retail, and agriculture. Johnson explains that the event is more than a traditional job fair—it's focused on building community partnerships, expanding workforce opportunities, and helping people discover high-growth careers, including entry-level positions starting at $60,000 or more with no prior experience required. She also discusses the importance of reconnecting communities and employers following Operation Metro Surge and creating sustainable pathways into careers that strengthen Minnesota's economy.

Christine Tucci Osorio joins Freddie Bell for another “Chat with Christine,” sharing updates on the many end-of-year celebrations and student achievements happening across North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District 622. She highlights the AVID program and explains how it helps students build academic skills, strengthen college and career readiness, and create meaningful connections throughout high school. Tucci Osorio also discusses the importance of grades and credit completion as the school year wraps up, encouraging students and families to stay engaged and finish strong. The conversation closes with information about summer learning opportunities, including Freedom School, designed to help students continue growing academically and personally during the summer months. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Yee Yang joins Freddie Bell to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and discuss this year's theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together.” Representing Minneapolis Public Schools, Yang highlights the rich diversity and cultural contributions of AANHPI communities both locally and nationwide. The conversation includes a discussion of Hmong American Day on May 14 and the historical significance of the Hmong community's journey to the United States following the Vietnam War. Yang also previews MPS Hmong Heritage Night at the Davis Center, featuring food, performances, cultural activities, and opportunities for families and community members to connect. Listeners will hear about the deep roots and impact of Hmong Americans in Minnesota, as well as the importance of honoring heritage, resilience, and community throughout the month of May.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Mikeya Griffin joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to celebrate one year since Golden Thyme Restaurant reopened under the leadership of Rondo Community Land Trust. A proud “Rondo baby,” Griffin reflects on the importance of preserving culturally significant spaces that serve as anchors for community connection, history, and economic opportunity. She discusses the legacy of Golden Thyme's original founders and how the restaurant continues to bring neighbors together through food, music, and events that celebrate the spirit of the Rondo neighborhood. The conversation also highlights Rondo CLT's broader mission to support local businesses, expand housing opportunities, and ensure community assets remain rooted in the neighborhood for future generations. Listeners will also hear about upcoming programming at Golden Thyme, including R&B nights, Sunday suppers, game nights, open mic events, and other summer community gatherings.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Liz Schwab joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to explain why public interest in data centers is rapidly increasing as digital technology, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and online services become more central to everyday life. Representing Google's global infrastructure and energy team, she discusses the real-world purpose of data centers and clears up common misconceptions about how they operate and support modern communication, business, healthcare, education, and entertainment. Schwab also highlights the economic benefits these facilities can bring to local communities, including jobs, infrastructure investment, and partnerships with local stakeholders. The conversation explores how sustainable, energy-efficient digital infrastructure is being developed to meet growing technological demands while creating long-term community impact. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Esther Agbaje joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to provide an inside look at the final days of the Minnesota legislative session, highlighting key priorities, ongoing negotiations, and what residents can expect before adjournment. She reflects on the fast-paced session, sharing progress made on housing, taxes, and community investments, while also outlining what major issues remain unresolved. A major focus of the conversation is the future of Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), where Rep. Agbaje discusses her proposed “Ballpark” funding solution and the urgency of bipartisan action to preserve this critical safety-net hospital. She also breaks down elements of the newly passed housing package, including rental assistance and pilot programs aimed at expanding housing stability and homeownership education. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community engagement, collaboration across party lines, and long-term solutions that support Minnesotans statewide. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss how Minnesotans, especially older adults, can prepare for severe weather season as storms, floods, and emergencies become more likely. Representing AARP Minnesota, he highlights the unique vulnerabilities many older residents face, including mobility challenges, healthcare needs, and limited access to resources during disasters. He shares practical steps families can take now, from building emergency kits and securing important documents to signing up for local alerts and connecting with organizations like American Red Cross and The Salvation Army. Haapala also warns about the surge of scams that often follow disasters, including fake contractors, impersonators, and fraudulent charities targeting vulnerable populations. The conversation emphasizes staying informed, taking small preparedness steps, and remaining cautious to protect both safety and finances during emergencies.