Philadelphia Community Podcast

Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati Presents: A Conversation with E.B. Lewis Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati highlights an exciting upcoming event presented by the Library Association in Philadelphia, featuring the renowned illustrator E.B. Lewis. With more than 70 acclaimed children's books to his name—including Coming On Home Soon, The Other Side, and Preaching to the Chickens—Lewis has received prestigious honors such as the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award and a Caldecott Honor. Known for his captivating watercolor artistry, E.B. Lewis brings history and emotion to life on the page. He is also the featured subject in Vanesse's monthly segment, What is Philadelphia Reading?

⚖️ SpeakOUT with Angela GiampoloIn our monthly SpeakOut segment, we welcome back Angela Giampolo, founder of Giampolo Law Group and creator of the Caravan of Hope, a national initiative delivering free legal services to underserved LGBTQ+ individuals across the U.S. Angela, a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ legal expert and advocate, brings us timely insights into the Defense Secretary's recent decision to eliminate transgender military personnel and what this means for service members, civil rights, and broader LGBTQ+ inclusion in federal policy.

Arun Prabhakaran, Executive Director of the Urban Affairs Coalition, and Jeremy Williams, Producer of Philly Pride 365, preview the 2025 Philadelphia Pride March and Festival on Sunday, June 1. This year's theme, “Philly L.U.V. – Legacy, Unity, and Visibility,” highlights expanded programming, a 600-foot progress pride flag, and inclusive spaces for all.

As part of World Heritage Week, The Literary Café Books and Events, Global Philadelphia, and the Free Library of Philadelphia are proud to present two unforgettable literary experiences celebrating stories that span continents, cultures, and personal triumphs. Joining me are:• Annette A. Anthony, author of Always Enough: A Global Food Memoir, who takes readers on a flavorful global journey rooted in Black girl culinary identity.• Butch Meily, author of From Manila to Wall Street, whose inspiring story of international journalism and leadership highlights what it means to thrive on the global stage.

As part of World Heritage Week, The Literary Café Books and Events, Global Philadelphia, and the Free Library of Philadelphia are proud to present two unforgettable literary experiences celebrating stories that span continents, cultures, and personal triumphs. Joining me are:• Annette A. Anthony, author of Always Enough: A Global Food Memoir, who takes readers on a flavorful global journey rooted in Black girl culinary identity.• Butch Meily, author of From Manila to Wall Street, whose inspiring story of international journalism and leadership highlights what it means to thrive on the global stage.

Today we're joined by Dan Drake, President and CEO of Trinity Health Continuing Care, to talk about an innovative and compassionate model of senior care—Trinity Health PACE. PACE, which stands for Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, helps older adults remain in their homes while receiving high-quality, nursing-home-level care. With a strong presence in the Delaware Valley under the names Mercy LIFE and Trinity Health PACE, this program delivers medical, social, and transportation support for seniors and their caregivers.Learn more at TrinityHealthPace.org.

I'm joined by two powerful voices in journalism and education — Yvonne Latty, executive producer of the new podcast MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy and director of the Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting at Temple University, and Linn Washington, veteran journalist and podcast host who has reported on the MOVE story for more than 50 years. Their six-part podcast, produced in collaboration with The Philadelphia Inquirer, revisits the 1985 MOVE bombing — when Philadelphia police dropped a bomb on a residential home, killing 11 people (including five children) and destroying 61 homes. It remains the only time in U.S. history that a police force bombed its own city. Through firsthand accounts, rare archival audio, and the voices of journalists, survivors, and community leaders, MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy unpacks a story that Philadelphia — and the nation — must continue to confront.

May 8th was Black Teacher Appreciation Day—a national celebration led by the Center for Black Educator Development to honor the “Dreamkeepers” who educate, empower, and inspire every day. Held during National Teacher Appreciation Week, this year's theme is Radical Well-being, highlighting the urgent need to support the wellness and self-care of Black teachers in and beyond the classroom. Power99 is proud to partner with the Center this month to uplift Black educators and amplify the #WeNeedBlackTeachers movement. Starting at 12:00 AM on May 8th, listeners can visit Power99.com  and WDAS FM.com to nominate a teacher who's made a difference in just 99 words or less. Selected educators will receive wellness gifts and be featured on-air and across our platforms. Joining us now is Sharif El-Mekki, CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development, to share how we can all join the movement and why supporting Black teachers is a key to educational equity.  

I'm joined by two powerful voices in journalism and education — Yvonne Latty, executive producer of the new podcast MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy and director of the Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting at Temple University, and Linn Washington, veteran journalist and podcast host who has reported on the MOVE story for more than 50 years. Their six-part podcast, produced in collaboration with The Philadelphia Inquirer, revisits the 1985 MOVE bombing — when Philadelphia police dropped a bomb on a residential home, killing 11 people (including five children) and destroying 61 homes. It remains the only time in U.S. history that a police force bombed its own city. Through firsthand accounts, rare archival audio, and the voices of journalists, survivors, and community leaders, MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy unpacks a story that Philadelphia — and the nation — must continue to confront.

Honoring Coach Fred Rosenfeld's LegacyIf you're lucky, you've had a mentor like Coach Fred Rosenfeld—a Philadelphia legend whose impact as a teacher, track coach, and community builder lives on.Rachel Berger of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History and Steven Bayne, a former political consultant and Overbrook Track alum, share efforts to rename a street in Fred's honor and raise $30,000 to preserve his legacy.

Bridging the Capital GapWe're joined by Varsovia Fernandez, CEO of the Pennsylvania CDFI Network—a coalition of mission-driven financial institutions dedicated to closing the capital gap in underserved communities across Pennsylvania. Varsovia shares details on a new grant program designed to support small businesses—especially in regions that have historically lacked access to capital.

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati sits down with Zabeth Teelucksingh, President of the Global Philadelphia Association, to mark a major milestone—Philadelphia's 10th anniversary as the first World Heritage City in the United States. They discuss how this designation has elevated the city's global profile and the events planned to celebrate its rich heritage. 

Meet the Twin Sister Docs—Dr. Elana McDonald, a Board Certified Pediatrician, and Dr. Delana Wardlaw, a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician. On their biweekly podcast, now streaming on YouTube and Spotify, they break down health topics that matter most to our communities—from nutrition and mental health to the impact of social media. 

This week, we sit down with Loree Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance, to discuss the organization's 40th anniversary and the mounting challenges in the fight against hunger. As federal funding cuts slash critical food programs and inflation drives grocery prices higher, Philabundance is doubling down on its mission to feed communities across Southeastern PA and Southern NJ. Hear how the loss of programs like LFPA and TEFAP could mean over 1.1 million fewer meals—and what we can all do to help.

This April, we recognize National Reentry Month by spotlighting the work of the Philadelphia Office of Reentry Partnerships and Executive Director Assata Thomas. We discuss the city's commitment to supporting justice-impacted individuals, along with several key events happening throughout the month—from job fairs to expungement clinics.

In this episode, we sit down with Louis King, President of OIC of America, to discuss their national impact, the urgency of diversifying the construction trades, and how the Pennsylvania Gas Tax plays a key role in funding opportunity. King breaks down who really benefits from the gas tax, the current diversity challenges within PennDOT's workforce, and how community engagement can help drive solutions. We also preview OIC's upcoming Town Hall Series, where community members can get informed and involved:April 17 – Southwest PhiladelphiaApril 24 – ChesterMay 1 – Norristown (Montgomery County)May 15 – North PhiladelphiaFollow OIC of America for updates:

We shine a light on the life-saving work of the Gift of Life Donor Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. We're joined by Richard Hasz, President & CEO of Gift of Life, and Justin Trotman, a Philly native, husband, father, and kidney transplant waitlist patient. As one of the nation's oldest and largest organ procurement organizations, Gift of Life continues to lead in organ and tissue donation. Their 28th Annual Donor Dash unites thousands to honor donor heroes, support recipients, and raise awareness for those still waiting. More than 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waitlist—including nearly 5,000 in our region. It takes just a minute to become a registered donor and potentially save a life.

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey's 2025 Children's Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children's Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey's 2025 Children's Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children's Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.

This week, we bring you two powerful conversations about justice, community, and hope. First, we speak with Reverend Gregory Holston, founder of Just Nation, an organization dedicated to fighting racism at every level of government. Reverend Holston shares details about the upcoming Coalition to Defend Democracy Mass Rally, happening Tuesday, April 22, from 6–8 PM at 10th Memorial Baptist Church (1328 N. 19th Street, Philadelphia).

This week marks Black Maternal Health Week, a time to raise awareness about the alarming disparities in care experienced by Black mothers and babies. In this episode, we hear from Jenne Johns, founder of Once Upon a Preemie, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black families navigating the challenges of premature birth. Jenne recently testified before Philadelphia City Council to advocate for increased awareness, education, and culturally responsive support for families impacted by preterm birth. Learn more about her powerful mission and the resources available through her organization:

Thinking about buying a pre-owned car? It can be a smart financial move—but only if you know what to look for. I'm joined by Joshua Blum of Joshua Motors to share expert advice on how to shop smart. From spotting red flags to avoiding common mistakes, Joshua breaks down what makes a reliable used car and how to ensure you're making a sound investment.Learn more at jmccauto.com  Books, big ideas, and bold voices—we're joined by Daniel Blank, Managing Director of Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, to talk about their dynamic spring Author Events Series. This season features guests like Maria Shriver, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and a highly anticipated conversation with Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. With accessibility in mind, the series now offers a new $5 ticketing model. Daniel shares what's driving this momentum and why it's become one of the most beloved cultural programs in the city.Visit freelibraryfoundation.org for the full schedule.Follow them on Instagram & Facebook: @freelibraryfdn    What's the future of cancer research—and other critical breakthroughs in medicine?I speak with Dr. Ron Collman, a critical care physician and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, who participated in the Stand Up for Science rally at Philadelphia City Hall—not in his professional capacity, but as a concerned citizen. He shares why restoring federal funding for scientific research is vital to public health, medical progress, and the future of lifesaving innovation. Learn more at standupforscience2025.orgJoin the conversation on social media using #StandUpForScience  

I'm joined by Gloria Malone from Vital Strategies and Keli McLoyd, Director of the Overdose Response Unit for the City of Philadelphia, to talk about the You Can Save Lives campaign. At a time when overdose deaths continue to rise in the Black community, this initiative raises critical awareness about the life-saving power of Naloxone and the urgent need for overdose prevention strategies that match the scale of the crisis. They share how Philadelphians can access free Naloxone and Fentanyl test strips. Learn more at youcansavelives.org and substanceusephilly.comFollow Vital Strategies on Instagram: @vitalstrategies  Later in the show, we spotlight a powerful nonprofit working to uplift Philadelphia neighborhoods by renovating aging homes: Rebuilding Together Philadelphia. I speak with Rudolph “Coach” Edge, a homeowner whose block was transformed by this initiative; Stefanie F. Seldin, President and CEO of Rebuilding Together Philadelphia; and Craig Carnaroli, Senior Executive Vice President at the University of Pennsylvania, a key supporter of this community-centered work.Learn more at rebuildingphilly.orgFollow Rebuilding Together Philadelphia:Instagram: @rtphiladelphiaFacebook: facebook.com/rebuildingphillyLinkedIn: Rebuilding Together Philadelphia

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with acclaimed poet, performer, and recording artist Ursula Rucker in celebration of National Poetry Month this April.Follow Ursula on Instagram and Twitter: @urucker for more of her powerful words and performances.Also featured in this episode is Dr. Ellyn Jo Waller, First Lady of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, human rights activist, and children's book author of The Fruitful Sisters, for the segment "What is Philadelphia Reading." Learn more about her work at ellynjowaller.com.

Kim Fraites-Dow, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania joined us to talk about the highly anticipated GirlzDay: Our World, Our Way, happening on May 17, 2025, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This event is designed to empower and inspire girls in grades K-12, offering a full day of leadership, creativity, and fun. Kim will also share insights into the Calling All Girl Bosses initiative and how Girl Scouts continues to support and uplift young changemakers in our communities. For more details on GirlzDay and how to register or become a sponsor, visit www.gsep.org/girlzday.Follow Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania on social media:

We're excited to highlight an event that's all about economic empowerment and uplifting local Black and minority-owned businesses. I speak to  Lori Noel —Chair of the Economic Development Committee of the South Jersey Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She's here to talk about the Annual Black and Minority Business Expo, happening in collaboration with Cherry Hill West and East High Schools' African American Culture Clubs. It's a powerful day of community, connection, and commerce you won't want to miss.Event Details:

We're partnering with a coalition of Black community leaders, government officials, and health experts in Philadelphia and across seven cities today launched You Have the Power to Save Lives, a campaign to promote the use of the overdose-reversing naloxone in Black communities.  Here's an excerpt of a news conference announcing the campaign to raise awareness about overdose and the availability free life saving Narcan.  YouCanSaveLives.org

 In this month's SpeakOut with Angela Giampolo, aka Philly Gay Lawyer, we explore pressing issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. This episode the latest executive orders impacting the community and the elimination of over 200 words on government websites that not only impact LGTQIA+ but individuals in the wider community. Giampolo Law Group   X: @Philly Gay LawyerInstagram: @yourgaylawyerTikTok: @gaylawyer    

 In this month's SpeakOut with Angela Giampolo, aka Philly Gay Lawyer, we explore pressing issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. This episode the latest executive orders impacting the community and the elimination of over 200 words on government websites that not only impact LGTQIA+ but individuals in the wider community. Giampolo Law Group   X: @Philly Gay LawyerInstagram: @yourgaylawyerTikTok: @gaylawyer     Author, filmmaker, and producer Curtis Chin is coming to the Free Library of Philadelphia on Tuesday, March 26 at 7:30 PM to talk about his new memoir, Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. This humorous and heartfelt book reflects on his experiences growing up as a gay Chinese American in 1980s Detroit, with his family's Chinese restaurant serving as the cultural and emotional centerpiece of his story. Chin's storytelling explores themes of identity, family, community, and resilience with both wit and warmth. Don't miss this special event at the Free Library, where he'll share insights from his book and his journey as a writer and activist. For event details, visit: Free Library Author Events Follow Curtis Chin and learn more about his work at www.curtisfromdetroit.com, and on social media @curtisfromdetroit (Instagram) and @curtischin (Twitter/X).

I speak to Dr. Oluwadamilola "Lola" Fayanju, Chief of the Division of Breast Surgery at Penn Medicine.  Dr, Fayanju discusses the factors that have resulted in higher mortality rates for Black Women and the critical importance of early detection and knowing family history.  https://pennmedicine.org/BreastCancerCare  

The U.S. may be one of the world's wealthiest nations, but when it comes to the health of pregnant Black women, our maternal health outcomes rank alongside those of developing countries. Black maternal morbidity—pregnancy-related complications that cause short- or long-term health problems—continues to be a crisis. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health, in collaboration with Birth Justice Philly, has released a groundbreaking report: “Severe Maternal Morbidity in Philadelphia, 2016-2022.” This report sheds light on alarming disparities in maternal health. Dr. Aasta D. Mehta, Director of the Division of Maternal, Child, and Family Health, joins us to discuss the findings, the city's initiatives to address this crisis, and how this data can drive meaningful change.

Protecting Medicaid: The “Hands Off Medicaid”  CampaignMillions of Americans rely on Medicaid for essential health care, from seniors in nursing homes to children and expectant mothers. However, recent proposals in Congress threaten to slash Medicaid funding, potentially stripping health care from 72 million Americans to finance tax cuts for the wealthy and big corporations.

Greg DeShields is Executive Director of Greg DeShields Consulting LLC, and the host of the podcast Something to Say with Greg DeShields. Launched in April 2024, Something to Say amplifies the voices of diverse personalities making a meaningful impact. With a focus on passion, perseverance, and resilience, the podcast explores how overcoming adversity can lead to transformation and success. As he gears up for Season Two, launching in April 2025, Greg joins us to share insights on his journey, exciting upcoming guests, and the power of storytelling to inspire change.   

Cleaning Up Philly: Mayor Parker's “One Philly” VisionPhiladelphia is working toward becoming "the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation with economic opportunity for all." To achieve this, the Office of Clean and Green is launching initiatives to transform public spaces, improve quality of life, and engage residents in the fight against waste.

 Winter Assistance & LIHEAP: Keeping Families WarmWinter can bring financial strain for many families struggling to afford heating bills. Fortunately, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to help. This federally funded program provides grants to eligible households, ensuring they can keep their homes warm without the burden of repayment. With millions of dollars in assistance going unclaimed each year, PECO is working to spread awareness and help customers apply before the program deadline on April 4, 2025. You don't have to be on public assistance to qualify, and with massive government layoffs, many families stand to benefit from this grant. 

Winter Assistance & LIHEAP: Keeping Families WarmWinter can bring financial strain for many families struggling to afford heating bills. Fortunately, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to help. This federally funded program provides grants to eligible households, ensuring they can keep their homes warm without the burden of repayment. With millions of dollars in assistance going unclaimed each year, PECO is working to spread awareness and help customers apply before the program deadline on April 4, 2025. You don't have to be on public assistance to qualify, and with massive government layoffs, many families stand to benefit from this grant. 

What's Going On: LIHEAP: Keeping Families Warm, Cleaning Up Philly, The “Hands Off Medicaid” Campaign   February 28, 2025 • 30 mins Winter Assistance & LIHEAP: Keeping Families WarmWinter can bring financial strain for many families struggling to afford heating bills. Fortunately, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to help. This federally funded program provides grants to eligible households, ensuring they can keep their homes warm without the burden of repayment. With millions of dollars in assistance going unclaimed each year, PECO is working to spread awareness and help customers apply before the program deadline on April 4, 2025. You don't have to be on public assistance to qualify, and with massive government layoffs, many families stand to benefit from this grant.