KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Superintendent Christine Tucci Osorio about the latest graduation results for School District 622, celebrating a year of outstanding achievement. She shares what contributed to the district's success and the efforts behind improved student outcomes. At the same time, Tucci Osorio acknowledges challenges from recent community disruptions, including significant student absences during the winter months that may impact future performance. The conversation highlights both optimism and realism as the district continues working to support students and maintain academic progress. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Debra Hurston and Aquilla Robinson about the mission of the Association for Black Economic Power (ABEP) and its work to expand financial access and build long-term wealth in underserved communities. They highlight the creation of Arise Community Credit Union, Minnesota's first Black-led community credit union, and explain how ABEP's approach focuses on sustainable, systems-level impact. The conversation explores why financial empowerment is especially critical right now and shares real-world examples of how their work is making a difference. They also preview their upcoming May 21 fundraising event, inviting the community to get involved, support the mission, and take part in an inclusive and engaging experience. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Emma Balázs about The People's Museum for Prince, a unique, community-powered project that invites fans to share personal stories, artwork, and memories of the iconic artist. She explains how the traveling museum centers everyday voices to preserve Prince's cultural impact beyond traditional timelines and facts. Opening June 7, Prince's birthday, the exhibit will be hosted at Roberts Gallery in North Minneapolis, honoring the neighborhood where he grew up. The conversation also highlights the significance of the 10-year anniversary of his passing, encouraging listeners to contribute their own experiences and be part of shaping his living legacy. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams about Minneapolis Public Schools' transition back to full in-person learning following a period of online options. She shares how the district is supporting students both academically and emotionally during the adjustment, while also providing an update on the ongoing budget process and new transparency tools for the community. Dr. Sayles-Adams highlights student accomplishments, including chess tournament winners and those advancing to the Minnesota History Day competition. She also invites the community to celebrate the Emerson Dual Language School Centennial and recognizes important April observances that honor staff, volunteers, and student support professionals.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Wil Dorsey about his debut memoir Looking for Czar, a heartfelt exploration of the bond between humans and their dogs. Inspired by a dream years after losing his beloved dog, Dorsey shares how the book blends personal storytelling, original artwork, and emotional reflection. He introduces the concept of attunement, encouraging people to slow down and deepen their awareness of their relationships. The conversation highlights themes of love, loss, and connection, offering listeners both an emotional perspective and practical ways to strengthen bonds with those they care about.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Clare Fuyuko Bierman and Erika Ji about their work in musical theater and their involvement with Theater Latté Da's NEXT Generation Commission as well as being awardees. They discuss how the program supports bold, original storytelling by historically underrepresented artists, providing both funding and long-term development opportunities. Bierman and Ji share insights into their collaborative projects and the importance of creating stories that challenge perspectives and reflect diverse voices. The conversation highlights how initiatives like this help expand the musical theater landscape while fostering the next generation of creative talent. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rep. Esther Agbaje about urgent legislative efforts to support Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), a critical safety net hospital serving the Upper Midwest. She discusses her upcoming “Ball Park” tax bill and the need for bipartisan cooperation as the legislative session winds down. Rep. Agbaje emphasizes that the future of HCMC impacts all Minnesotans, from urban communities to rural areas, making it a statewide concern. The conversation highlights the importance of securing sustainable funding to ensure continued access to essential healthcare services.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with G. Phillip Shoultz, III about Sing Democracy 250, a nationwide choral initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. He highlights the upcoming signature concert in Minneapolis at Orchestra Hall, featuring premieres of powerful new works inspired by themes of democracy, citizenship, and justice. Shoultz also emphasizes the significance of Minneapolis as a national hub for choral music and the collaborative effort bringing together ensembles from across Minnesota. The conversation underscores the transformative power of music to unite communities and inspire reflection during this historic milestone.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Crystal Brinkman about summer employment opportunities available through the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. She highlights programs like Teen Teamworks, which helps youth ages 14–18 build essential job skills, responsibility, and confidence through hands-on work experiences. Brinkman also discusses opportunities for young adults through the Minneapolis Park Corps, along with the broader benefits of gaining early work experience. The conversation encourages listeners to apply soon, noting upcoming deadlines and where to find more information about available positions. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Matt Bertram about how the American Red Cross is evolving volunteer opportunities to meet the needs of today's communities. He discusses the “Reimagining Volunteerism” initiative, which focuses on making it easier and more flexible for people to serve through tools like opportunity finders and on-demand scheduling. Bertram also highlights the personal and community benefits of volunteering, especially for those looking to reconnect and make a difference. The conversation encourages listeners to take action during National Volunteer Month and explore accessible ways to get involved.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Khalique Rogers and Samia Mohamud about growing concerns over proposed changes to Minnesota's Post Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program. They explain how the program provides free college credit to high school students while saving families and taxpayers millions, and why new restrictions could limit access, especially for first-generation and low-income students. Samia shares her firsthand experience as a student advocate, testifying at the state level and pushing for equitable access to education opportunities. The conversation also highlights a broader coalition effort calling for transparency, enforcement of existing laws, and a pause on changes until a full review is completed. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Mary Moore Easter about her poetry collection Free Papers, inspired by the testimony of Eliza Winston, a Mississippi slave who won her freedom in a Minnesota court in 1860. Easter shares the research process behind the book, including her deep dive into historical court transcripts and what moved her to bring this story to life through poetry. She also highlights her upcoming book reading at the Hennepin History Museum, where attendees can engage in discussion, ask questions, and purchase signed copies. The conversation underscores the importance of preserving and sharing powerful local histories that continue to resonate today.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speaks with Leela James about her latest project, the 2B Honest EP, and the inspiration behind its soulful and honest sound. She reflects on her career evolution, blending classic soul influences with contemporary R&B, and what continues to drive her artistry. Leela also shares details about her ongoing tour and what fans can expect from her upcoming performances, including her May 2nd show. Additionally, she highlights her song “Rise and Shine” being featured in the upcoming film You, Me, and Tuscany, marking another exciting chapter in her career.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Jay Haapala about AARP's Fraud Prevention Month and the growing threat of scams and identity theft. He highlights common and emerging scams, including jury duty text scams, job-related fraud, and targeted messages tied to local permits, emphasizing how criminals use urgency and fear to exploit victims. Haapala shares practical tips for protecting personal information and recognizing red flags, while encouraging listeners to stay informed as scams evolve. He also promotes the upcoming Twin Cities Scam Jam event and AARP's Fraud Watch Network as valuable resources to help individuals safeguard their finances and support others in their communities.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Ruth Lynfield about the importance of syphilis awareness and public health education. She explains that anyone who is sexually active can contract syphilis, but emphasizes that it can be easily detected through a simple blood test at a clinic. Dr. Lynfield highlights the serious risks of untreated syphilis, particularly during pregnancy, where it can cause significant harm to babies. She also reassures listeners that syphilis is curable with proper treatment, underscoring the importance of regular testing and early intervention. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rodney Hamilton about his visit to Minneapolis to teach in the Katherine Dunham Dance Residency at Lundstrum Performing Arts. He shares insights into the life and legacy of Katherine Dunham, a pioneering dancer and anthropologist who blended African and Caribbean traditions with modern dance. Hamilton explains the cultural and spiritual roots of many modern dance forms and why preserving this history is important today. He also highlights opportunities for the community to participate in classes and auditions, emphasizing accessibility and inclusion for dancers of all levels.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Elizabeth Keenan about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and the importance of inclusion and accessibility in education. She shares that Minneapolis Public Schools serves about 6,000 students through special education, with support systems in place from birth through age 22. Dr. Keenan highlights key resources like assistive technology, sensory rooms, and transition programming designed to help students thrive. She also discusses ongoing improvement efforts and the challenges of underfunding, while encouraging families to explore available services and supports through the district.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Christine Tucci Osorio about how School District 622 is stabilizing after months of disruption tied to recent immigration enforcement activity in the Twin Cities. She shares that while the situation has improved, the district continues to support families through outreach, food assistance, and ongoing vigilance. Osorio outlines next steps focused on getting students back into classrooms consistently and prioritizing academic recovery. She also highlights efforts to restore normalcy while remaining responsive to community needs as conditions continue to evolve.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speaks with Pamela Weems about her inclusion in The American Flag, a book featuring historic images from the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. She shares the story behind how her photograph—originally captured for The Washington Post—became part of the museum's permanent collection, and its connection to the movement following George Floyd's death. Weems reflects on what it means to be part of a visual legacy that highlights the resilience and contributions of African Americans from slavery through the Civil Rights Movement to today. The conversation also explores the importance of preserving Black history for future generations and her Barnes & Noble book signing event. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Edgar R. Olivo about how the American Red Cross is preparing for an expected increase in disasters this spring. He shares insights on the types of emergencies impacting communities, from home fires to wildfires, and how the Red Cross supports families with shelter, food, and emergency assistance. Olivo emphasizes the importance of preparedness and offers practical steps families can take now to stay safe before disasters strike. The conversation also highlights the critical role of donations and volunteers in enabling rapid response efforts. He encourages listeners to get involved with Red Cross Giving Day on March 25 to support communities in need.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams about the ongoing budget process at Minneapolis Public Schools, including a projected $50 million gap driven by rising costs, declining enrollment, and underfunding. She shares how the district is advocating at the state level for more stable funding while working to minimize cuts to programs and staff. Dr. Sayles-Adams also highlights opportunities for community input, including a rescheduled transformation meeting and extended survey deadlines. The conversation celebrates student success stories, from a National Merit Scholar to standout performances by student-athletes in wrestling and swimming. She also reminds families of important upcoming dates, including Eid al-Fitr, Spring Break, and the return to full in-person learning in April. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with legendary R&B singer Karyn White about her powerful return to the spotlight with her new single, “You're Gonna Want Me Back.” She reflects on seeing it climb the Billboard Top 30 R&B chart, marking her first major chart success in decades. White also discusses the global response to the single and how her journey, faith, and life experiences have shaped this new chapter in her music career. The conversation highlights her enduring legacy as the voice behind classic hits like “Superwoman” and her continued impact on the world of soul and R&B.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Amber Banks about the mission of the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs and the role Black-led community development financial institutions play in expanding access to capital. She explains how CDFIs help entrepreneurs start businesses, support homeownership, and invest in communities often overlooked by traditional financial institutions. Banks also discusses why leaders from across the Midwest are gathering in Minneapolis to collaborate and share strategies to grow community investment. The conversation highlights the Black Renaissance Fund, which provides grants and low-interest capital to strengthen Black-led CDFIs and increase their ability to support economic growth in underserved communities. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Dr. La Tonya Overton about how Minneapolis Public Schools is celebrating Women's History Month. She highlights the upcoming “Who's That Lady?” event at the Davis Center, where students will dress as influential women in history and share their stories with the community. Dr. Overton also reflects on the legacies of trailblazers like Nellie Stone Johnson and Lucy Craft Laney and why it's important for students to learn about women who helped shape history and social change. The conversation emphasizes the power of education, representation, and community events that inspire young learners to recognize the impact of women past and present.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Jay Haapala about the spike in IRS imposter scams during tax season. He explains how criminals pose as IRS agents through voicemails, texts, and emails to demand payment, steal personal information, or gain access to devices and financial accounts. Haapala outlines common red flags—including requests for payment by gift cards or cryptocurrency—and reminds listeners that the IRS does not initiate contact in these ways. He also highlights protective tools like the IRS Identity Protection PIN program and encourages people to stay informed through AARP's Fraud Watch Network to avoid becoming victims. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell welcomes Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams to share an encouraging message to the Minneapolis Public Schools community following several challenging months. She thanks families and supporters for rallying around students while highlighting continued flexibility with online learning and the inspiring resilience shown across the district. The conversation spotlights achievements including Teacher of the Year nominees, new Student School Board representatives, Future City finalists, student-athlete successes, and Roosevelt High School's National Unified Champion recognition. Dr. Sayles-Adams also previews upcoming events like the District Spelling Bee, underscoring the pride and momentum building throughout MPS. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcome Christine Tucci Osorio back for another “Chat with Christine” to discuss how things are evolving in District 622. She shares that the community is calmer after last month's heightened ICE activity, while the district continues outreach, monitoring resources, and providing support such as supervision and food delivery for affected families. Looking ahead, Osorio emphasizes the importance of getting students fully reengaged in school and focusing on academic recovery. She closes with a positive note, wishing listeners a Happy Lunar New Year and highlighting celebrations within the district's Chinese Immersion program. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings speak with G. Phillip Shoultz, III as he discusses the upcoming WITNESS: Symphony of Spirituals concert taking place February 22 at Northrop, highlighting its role in celebrating Black History Month through powerful choral performance. He explains how the WITNESS project honors Black contributions to American arts and why this year's focus on spirituals is especially meaningful. The conversation explores how spirituals, created by enslaved Americans, carried messages of hope and resilience that later fueled the Civil Rights movement. Shoultz also reflects on the music's continued relevance today, noting its resonance within Twin Cities communities seeking unity and shared humanity. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speaks with Tephanie Delaney as she shares how her two decades in entertainment and brand strategy led to the creation of UNBX TV, a platform designed to prioritize community, participation, and creator ownership. She explains how the ecosystem differs from traditional streaming models by focusing on collaboration rather than algorithms and competition. Tephanie also unpacks the meaning behind “Stream Outside the Box” and how it encourages creators to rethink how they share and monetize their work. The conversation highlights her broader mission of building cultural marketplaces where creatives can grow together and sustain long-term impact. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speak with Dr. Andrew Bergersen about a community event offering free PSA testing through the Minnesota Urology Foundation. He explains how the simple blood test helps screen for prostate cancer, a disease that affects 1 in 8 men and disproportionately impacts Black men, who face significantly higher diagnosis and mortality rates. Dr. Bergersen outlines who should consider screening—men over 50 and Black men over 45—and what participants can expect, including results mailed within a few days. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early detection and accessible community health resources.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcome Alexis Love to discuss her work in Career & Technical Education (CTE) at Minneapolis Public Schools and her vision for the future of public safety. Love shares how her background in law enforcement and ministry shaped her belief that public safety should center on servant leadership, empathy, and “noble character.” She outlines the wide range of CTE pathways available across MPS, from healthcare and public safety to skilled trades, IT, engineering, and media arts, preparing students for high-wage, high-skill, high-demand careers. The conversation also highlights student success stories, rising enrollment among girls, and how families can explore CTE programs that offer hands-on learning and even articulated college credit.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with public history researcher Jeremiah Ellis about his Minnesota Historical Society–published article, The Overlooked Legacy: Black Women of the Twin Cities Ordnance Plant. Ellis shares the powerful stories of the “Black Rosies” who worked at the New Brighton plant during World War II, breaking racial and gender barriers while helping power the war effort. The conversation highlights how these women moved beyond domestic work into skilled and leadership roles, despite facing discrimination and danger, and how their economic gains helped strengthen Minnesota's Black middle class. Ellis also explains why these stories were erased for decades and how reclaiming them reshapes our understanding of history, justice, and the foundations of today's civil rights movements.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell welcomes Danielle Hughes, the new principal of Benjamin E. Mays, to discuss the school's upcoming Afrocentric program launching in fall 2026. Hughes explains how the program centers Black history, cultural pride, and racial identity development to create a rigorous, affirming learning environment for students in grades PreK through 5. She shares how African-centered values and Dr. LaGarrett J. King's principles of Black Historical Consciousness guide the curriculum and help students develop confidence, self-awareness, and academic excellence. The conversation also highlights the school's Rondo neighborhood roots, districtwide transportation, and important application details for families interested in enrolling.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings are joined by Dr. David Mair of the American Red Cross to discuss a serious blood shortage affecting hospitals and patients nationwide. Dr. Mair explains how winter weather, illness, and a severe flu season have led to thousands of missed blood donations, while the need for blood continues every day. He highlights why Black donors are especially important, particularly for patients with sickle cell disease who rely on closely matched blood transfusions. The conversation emphasizes the safety of donating, how listeners can help, and upcoming opportunities, such as local blood drives, to save lives by giving blood. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell is joined by immigration attorney Flavia Santos Lloyd, Esq., for an important conversation about immigration enforcement and family protections. Drawing on her more than 20 years of experience—and her own background as a former immigrant—Lloyd explains what recent public sentiment and polling reveal about growing concerns nationwide. She offers clear, practical guidance for listeners on how to respond if law enforcement arrives, including understanding warrants, knowing the right to remain silent, and avoiding signing documents under pressure. The discussion emphasizes preparation, calm decision-making, and the importance of seeking legal advice early to protect individual rights and family stability.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rod Adams and Paige Ingram about the urgency of Black unification and solidarity in the current moment. The conversation centers on the goals of the Black Mass Meeting following February 5 and why collective action and policy-driven power building are critical for Black communities. Adams and Ingram share ways individuals can stay connected and engaged even if they are unable to attend in person. They also outline what sustained, long-term community engagement looks like and how listeners can remain involved in shaping the future of the movement. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell is joined by Jay Haapala of AARP Minnesota to discuss the growing threat of scams and fraud impacting Minnesotans. Haapala explains how scammers impersonate trusted figures such as family members, government agencies, banks, faith leaders, tech support, and even immigration enforcement to trigger fear or urgency and override good judgment. He breaks down why emotional manipulation is central to these schemes and how technology is used to make scams more convincing and costly. The conversation closes with practical advice on slowing down, verifying information, talking to trusted people, and using resources like the AARP Fraud Watch Network to stay protected. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell welcomes Tikonwaun (Tiki) Blackamore from Minneapolis Public Schools to highlight Black History Month and the importance of community engagement. Tiki shares why celebrating Black history matters and how MPS creates meaningful opportunities for students, families, and the broader community to connect, learn, and reflect. The conversation spotlights public events such as the “Exhaling” art exhibit, the popular “Cooking with Soul” series, and music and wellness-centered programs throughout February. Tiki also highlights family-focused events like National African American Family Involvement Day and encourages listeners to explore the full calendar of activities on the MPS website.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings welcomes Stephanie Davies-Larson and Grace Mobosi-Enwesi from Minneapolis Public Schools to spotlight National Magnet School Month. The conversation explores what makes magnet schools unique and how MPS offers theme-based learning in fine arts, global studies and humanities, STEM/STEAM, Montessori, and Spanish dual language programs. The guests share examples of innovative learning happening at magnet schools across the district and discuss how community partnerships enhance real-world learning experiences. They also provide guidance on school tours, upcoming deadlines, and where families can go to learn more about magnet school options at MPS. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings talk with Jason Marque Sole, a formerly incarcerated abolitionist, criminal justice educator, and adjunct professor at Hamline University. Sole reflects on being recently pardoned and what that moment means personally and for broader conversations about justice and accountability in Minnesota. He discusses the importance of staying informed about what is happening in the state and how community-based responses to harm can create real change. The conversation also highlights the Humanize My Hoodie Movement and how it uplifts youth by challenging harmful perceptions and fostering dignity, connection, and healing in the Twin Cities and beyond. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with educator, film producer, and author Derek Francis about Minnesota's often-overlooked school integration story. Francis discusses his new children's book, Our First Bus Ride, which commemorates the 55th anniversary of Minneapolis' Hale–Field elementary school integration and is told through the eyes of two second graders experiencing change for the first time. He explains how the book and his film Separate Not Equal: Minnesota Integration Story make complex history accessible for young readers, families, and educators. The conversation also highlights upcoming community events, conversations with integration alumni, and the ongoing importance of building inclusive, culturally responsive schools today. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcomed Christine Tucci Osorio, Superintendent of School District 622, for a “Chat with Christine” focused on the current challenges facing the school community. Osorio discusses how ICE activity and broader community stressors are impacting students, families, and staff across the district. She outlines the district's evolving response, emphasizing safety, student learning, family outreach, vigilance, and accommodations to meet changing needs. Osorio closes with a call for collective support of young people, highlighting the importance of predictable routines, opportunities for joy, and healthy stress management. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings talks with Rose McGee, President and Founder of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie®, about the organization's Annual MLK Holiday Weekend of Service. Rose explains how this year's event includes a food and supplies drive for the PRISM Food Shelf and reflects a deeper focus on protecting constitutional rights and community freedom during challenging times. She shares the powerful origin story of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, which began after the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, and why sweet potato pie is considered a sacred symbol of care and connection in Black culture. The conversation highlights how service, storytelling, and shared meals can heal, unite, and strengthen communities while honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty about the joint effort between the Hennepin County Attorney's Office and the Minnesota Attorney General's Office to collect and preserve evidence in the killing of Renee Nicole Good. Moriarty explains the decision to move forward after the FBI rescinded its cooperation agreement with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability. She discusses the public evidence submission portal, how evidence is reviewed, and why collecting as much information as possible is critical to building a complete case file. Moriarty also outlines the careful process prosecutors use when determining whether charges can be brought and the challenges involved in pursuing justice in high-profile cases.