Philadelphia Community Podcast

Today on the show, we bring you three powerful conversations centered on health, awareness, and empowerment in our communities.

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. 

Today we're spotlighting The Velvet Whip Arts and Social Club, one of Philadelphia's newest hubs for live entertainment, culture, and community. Joining us is Nasir “Mizzy” Mack, Creative Executive Officer of SERF, a full-service creative agency behind major events like Wawa Welcome America, The Atlantic Festival, and the upcoming launch of Velvet Whip. Nasir shares insights on Velvet Whip's exciting debut in Callowhill, its place in Philadelphia's arts scene, and what we can look forward to at this unique venue.

Today we're joined by Reverend Zemoria Brandon (she/her), Administrator and Social Worker for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America – Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter (SCDAA-PDVC). Reverend Brandon is a passionate advocate for individuals and families impacted by sickle cell disease. She leads outreach, education, and advocacy efforts, and also chairs the SiNERGe “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell” campaign, raising awareness each year on during September - National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  Rev. Brandon continues to be a powerful voice for equitable healthcare and compassionate care.

We're joined by Tracy Davidson — award-winning journalist, breast cancer survivor, and co-anchor of NBC10 News at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tracy is also the founder and host of Lifting Your Voice, a powerful retreat designed to help women reset, refocus, and recharge. With more than 30 years in broadcast journalism and 14 Emmy Awards, Tracy is a fierce advocate for resilience, community, and purpose. She's here to tell us about the upcoming Lifting Your Voice event taking place Saturday, October 12th from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM at White Manor Country Club — with a special VIP Happy Hour Experience to follow!

We're joined by Tracy Davidson — award-winning journalist, breast cancer survivor, and co-anchor of NBC10 News at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tracy is also the founder and host of Lifting Your Voice, a powerful retreat designed to help women reset, refocus, and recharge. With more than 30 years in broadcast journalism and 14 Emmy Awards, Tracy is a fierce advocate for resilience, community, and purpose. She's here to tell us about the upcoming Lifting Your Voice event taking place Saturday, October 12th from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM at White Manor Country Club — with a special VIP Happy Hour Experience to follow!

  Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with Michael Harriot, an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, celebrated poet, and public historian hailed as “one of the most eloquent writers in America.” Since its 2023 release, his New York Times bestseller Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America has been the top-selling Black history book in the country. He is also the founder of the Black journalism collective ContrabandCamp.com.

 In this episode, I speak with Bruce Rush, Treasurer of the Achievement Foundation and member of Kappa Alpha Psi, and Keith Ellison, President of the Achievement Foundation. As part of its yearlong 30th Anniversary Celebration of the Kappa Achievement Center (5521 Germantown Avenue, Germantown), the Achievement Foundation—the charitable arm of the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.—is presenting the inaugural Germantown Avenue Food Truck Festival on Saturday, September 6, 2025 (12–6 PM) along the 5400 block of Germantown Avenue. Themed “Backpacks, Bites & Beats”, this free community event will feature food trucks, local vendors, live entertainment, an Art Village, a children's play area, and a bookbag giveaway. Rain date: Sunday, September 7.   https://www.instagram.com/p/DNQ6U3DJ2kT/    Next, I'm joined by Mark Wainwright, Founder & CEO of It Takes A Village To Feed One Child, a nonprofit fighting food insecurity through weekend meals for children, mobile food programs for the homeless, senior food delivery, and pop-up pantries. The organization is also hosting the Hunger Village Awards 2025 at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia this September.

I speak to  Dr. Kirk Noel Garratt, Medical Director of the Center for Heart and Vascular Health at ChristianaCare and former president of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. A nationally recognized leader in interventional cardiology, Dr. Garratt shares his insights on prevention, education, and equity in cardiovascular care—and invites listeners to the 2025 Wilmington Heart Walk, happening Sunday, September 7 at Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park.Event Details:

Honoring Minority Organ Donor Awareness MonthIn recognition of August as Minority Organ Donor Awareness Month, we're sharing powerful stories that highlight the lifesaving impact of organ donation within communities of color. This episode features Maxine Williams of Audubon, PA, widow of Al Williams — a U.S. Navy veteran, General Mills employee, coach, and kidney recipient. Al's transplant in 2011 gave him 12 more years of life, during which he witnessed milestones he once thought impossible while on dialysis — including his son Nico's high school and college graduations. Al was a passionate advocate for organ donation, sharing his gratitude publicly and inspiring others to register as a Gift of Life Ambassador.  Together, Maxine and her family continue this legacy through The Al Williams Foundation, promoting preventative health, wellness, and the power of organ donation. Their story embodies the profound gift of a second chance at life — and the importance of increasing organ donor registration in minority communities. 

Saving the Wanamaker Light ShowToday we're joined by Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, to talk about an exciting campaign to bring back two of Philadelphia's most beloved holiday traditions: the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village. For generations, families have gathered under the glow of the Light Show, listened to the majestic sounds of the Wanamaker Organ, and created cherished memories in the heart of Center City. When Macy's closed its Center City location, the future of these traditions was left uncertain. But thanks to the Philadelphia Visitor Center and its partners, there's now a plan to restore the magic for the 2025 holiday season and preserve it for generations to come. ✨ If you'd like to be part of saving one of Philadelphia's most treasured holiday traditions, visit SaveTheLightShow.org to learn more and make a donation. Every gift helps bring back the magic of the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village.  Girl Scouts of Eastern PA - Calling All Girl Bosses I welcomed four inspiring guests from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania's Calling All Girl Bosses initiative—a free, yearlong leadership program helping girls in grades 6–12 become confident changemakers in their communities. Joining us are two remarkable Girl Scouts: Jasmine Wielgoszinski from Northeast Philly and Kinsley Jackson from West Philadelphia. They'll share how their Gold Award projects are making an impact—from advocating for farm animal therapy to leading mural tours rooted in Black history. With them are their biggest supporters—moms and volunteers Adrienne Wielgoszinski and Lillian Jackson.

Barbers Who Care Free Haircut & Back-to-School DriveToday we're joined by Kenny Duncan, CEO and co-founder of Barbers Who Care — a celebrity barber, salon owner, and nationally recognized educator. For 16 years, Kenny and his team have been uplifting Philadelphia youth through mentorship, health and wellness, and their annual Barbers Who Care Free Haircut & Back-to-School Drive. This year's event takes place Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 10 AM – 3 PM at the West Philadelphia YMCA (5120 Chestnut Street). Along with free haircuts for children ages 5–17, families will receive bookbags, school supplies, and access to valuable community resources. 

Today we're joined by Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, to talk about an exciting campaign to bring back two of Philadelphia's most beloved holiday traditions: the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village. For generations, families have gathered under the glow of the Light Show, listened to the majestic sounds of the Wanamaker Organ, and created cherished memories in the heart of Center City. When Macy's closed its Center City location, the future of these traditions was left uncertain. But thanks to the Philadelphia Visitor Center and its partners, there's now a plan to restore the magic for the 2025 holiday season and preserve it for generations to come. ✨ If you'd like to be part of saving one of Philadelphia's most treasured holiday traditions, visit SaveTheLightShow.org to learn more and make a donation. Every gift helps bring back the magic of the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village.

  I speak with David Gutstadt, a Philadelphia-based hospitality and real estate executive with over two decades of experience in hotels, leisure, fitness, and real estate. He is the founder and CEO of Ballers, a hospitality-forward social sports brand launched in 2023. Ballers redefines urban recreation by combining elevated sport experiences—like pickleball, padel, squash, golf simulators, and turf—with refined design, dining, wellness, and community programming Ballers Website: ballers-us.comSocial Media: Follow at @ballers.social.sports (Instagram) Then, we dive into the future of emotionally intelligent gaming with William Santo, Chief Technology Officer at Kaiko Studios. With over 20 years of experience at major tech players like Amazon and Google, William is pioneering emotionally aware AI agents that go beyond thought to feel. At Kaiko Studios, the mission is to merge emotional intelligence with artificial intelligence—fostering game characters that respond, adapt, and evolve in real time for more immersive, human-centered experiencesKaiko Studios Website: kaikostudios.xyzSocial Media: @KaikoHQ on X (Twitter)Finally, our Summer Work Ready student UPenn's  Trinity Nieves speaks with Felicitas Tananibe, a rising senior at the University of Pennsylvania, about the critical role of art in healthcare, and how it's shaping her path as an aspiring medical practitioner.  

In this episode, I speak with Reverend Steven T. Robinson—Founder, Chairman, and Director of the Inter-Faith Social Change Movement, and Pastor of God's Missionary Baptist Church. Widely recognized as one of Philadelphia's most innovative and outspoken spiritual leaders, Rev. Robinson is a pioneer in the education of disadvantaged children, an accomplished author, and a musician. His decades of service have earned him numerous citations and proclamations from City Council, honoring his tireless work alongside government, civic, and community organizations. Rev. Robinson joins us to share details about the First Annual Addiction Awareness and Recovery Concert of Philadelphia, happening Saturday, September 27 at The Lutheranian Music Hall, 2715 E. Alleghany Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19134. Doors open at 6 PM, and the concert begins at 7 PM. Admission is a $20 donation.Website: www.ifscm.orgContact: Rev. S. Robinson – (215) 498-6882  We also shine a light on the urgent need for organ donation during National Minority Donor Awareness Month. More than 100,000 children and adults in the U.S. are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant—and nearly 60% are from Black and Brown communities. My guest, Phillip Davis, is a passionate educator and father who discovered he was in kidney failure on his 34th birthday. Since then, he has undergone dialysis treatments—four hours a day, three times a week—for over four years while waiting for his gift of life. Married to his wife Akelia since 2023, Phillip speaks movingly about her unwavering love and support, and continues to inspire as an educator, rapper, and advocate for organ and tissue donation.Learn more: www.donors1.org

This week, we remember Anita Conner, Co-Founder of the breast cancer awareness and resource nonprofit Praise Is the Cure, who was laid to rest alongside the memory of her late daughter, Kerri Conner Matchet. Anita and her family launched the organization to provide life-saving resources and mammograms, partnering with trusted messengers in faith-based institutions to reach women in need. Looking back through my archives, I found an interview from 2022 with Anita and her son, John, that captured her passion, determination, and commitment to the community. Anita Marie Thorne Conner — loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, trailblazing businesswoman, and founder of Praise Is the Cure — was born October 14, 1956, and was called home on August 4, 2025. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the vital work of her organization.Learn more and support the mission at: www.praiseisthecure.org

IBX Celebrate Caring 2025 – Honoring Nurses Who Inspire We're proud to highlight the 2025 Celebrate Caring campaign by Independence Blue Cross (IBX)—a heartfelt initiative launched during National Nurses Week that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary impact nurses make in our communities. This annual campaign recognizes nurses who go above and beyond, demonstrating compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to those they serve both inside and outside the clinical setting. Each year, three winners are selected to receive a $500 gift card, a $2,500 donation to a nonprofit of their choice, and the Sunshine Award, named in memory of IBX executive Paula Sunshine, who helped create the program.

August is recognized in the U.S. as National Minority Donor Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging organ, eye, and tissue donation within multicultural communities. This morning we tell the story of Joshua Lee, Lung Transplant Recipient – Age 64 . Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis as a teen, Joshua Lee's condition eventually damaged his lungs, making it difficult to breathe or work. By early 2024, he relied on oxygen machines and had to leave his job. In July, he was hospitalized and received a life-saving lung transplant at Temple University Hospital.   Now, Joshua calls himself a “living testimony” and credits his recovery to his wife's support and the gift of organ donation. Learn more about organ and tissue donation at www.donors1.orgFollow:

I welcomed four inspiring guests from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania's Calling All Girl Bosses initiative—a free, yearlong leadership program helping girls in grades 6–12 become confident changemakers in their communities. Joining us are two remarkable Girl Scouts: Jasmine Wielgoszinski from Northeast Philly and Kinsley Jackson from West Philadelphia. They'll share how their Gold Award projects are making an impact—from advocating for farm animal therapy to leading mural tours rooted in Black history. With them are their biggest supporters—moms and volunteers Adrienne Wielgoszinski and Lillian Jackson.

In this episode of Insight, we're highlighting three powerful community events making a difference in our region. First, we spotlight the Nicetown CDC Giveback Festival, an annual North Philly tradition filled with music, resources, and empowerment. Guests Majeedah Rashid, COO of Nicetown CDC, Zakariyya Abdur Rahman, President & CEO, and Tammy Boney, Production Manager and host, share how the festival promotes safety, wellness, and unity.

n this episode, host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with award-winning author Jason Mott, whose latest novel People Like Us delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the power of story. Mott, a National Book Award winner, shares his creative process, his thoughts on representation in literature, and what continues to inspire his work.

Today's episode is packed with powerful voices and community-driven stories—from educational planning and youth leadership to rising music talent.   First, we're joined by Colonel Oz Hill, Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia. With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement, Colonel Hill shares how the District is inviting families, students, and staff to help shape the future of school buildings through Phase Eight of its Facilities Planning Process. Community input will guide decisions to modernize, co-locate, repurpose—or even reimagine—school spaces for Philadelphia's diverse neighborhoods.

In this episode, we're highlighting three powerful voices working at the intersection of opportunity, advocacy, and artistry.

Today we're joined by Colonel Oz Hill, Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia. With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement,. This summer, the District is hosting community engagement sessions as part of Phase Eight of its comprehensive Facilities Planning Process. These sessions give families, students, and school staff a chance to help shape how the District uses its buildings—whether by modernizing, co-locating, or reimagining school spaces to better serve Philadelphia's diverse neighborhoods.To learn more and stay up to date, visit philasd.org/fpp and follow the District on social media:

Creating Inclusive Spaces for Individuals with AutismFostering equity and accessibility means creating environments where everyone feels welcome. At Comcast, this mission has come to life through the development of a sensory-friendly room—designed to support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. Christina Wong, Comcast's Executive Director and Producer of Experiential Content, joins us in studio to share how this initiative was developed in collaboration with partners like the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), The Arc of Philadelphia, and Southpaw Enterprises. Learn more: Comcast Center Campus Accessibility.Navigating Senior Living with ConfidencePlanning for senior living can feel overwhelming, but it's a vital step toward a secure and fulfilling future. Brian Kersey, Marketing & Sales Director at Foulkeways at Gwynedd—a premier continuing care retirement community rooted in Quaker values—joins us to discuss the importance of life planning, the benefits of senior living communities, and how to make informed decisions for yourself or your loved ones. Discover more: www.foulkeways.org.Rethinking Food Insecurity: Hunger in Unexpected PlacesWhen you think of food insecurity, Philadelphia often comes to mind—it's the big city with the highest poverty rate. But hunger exists in places you might not expect, including communities like Narberth and Lower Merion. In this episode, we revisit an insightful conversation with Ben Hearn, Board President of the Narberth Community Food Bank, to discuss the challenges of food insecurity in suburban areas and how the organization is making a difference.Learn more: narberthcommunityfoodbank.orgFollow them: Instagram: @narberth_food_bank | Facebook: Narberth Community Food Bank  

On this episode of Insight, we're highlighting powerful leaders, creative changemakers, and events that are building stronger, healthier communities. We begin with Tanya T. Morris, visionary entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and Founder/CEO of Mom Your Business. Tanya is on a mission to empower Black and Brown women entrepreneurs through access to capital, coaching, and community. Her innovative pitch competitions are opening doors and building generational wealth. We recap the Future Forward: Garden Party Pitch Competition, a stunning celebration of style, innovation, and economic empowerment held June 8 at the historic Belmont Mansion. Plus, we look ahead to the next big event happening August 13 in Camden, NJ.

I speak to Rev. Herb Lusk III  about a day of purpose, remembrance, and community impact at the 7th Annual Herb Lusk Golf Classic for Children, taking place Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. Hosted by Rev. Lusk III in loving memory of his father, Rev. Herb Lusk II—the former Philadelphia Eagle and visionary faith leader—this event brings together civic leaders, athletes, and supporters to champion youth empowerment through education, faith, and legacy. Proceeds will benefit the Frederick Douglass Christian School in Chester, PA, continuing Rev. Lusk's powerful commitment to uplifting future generations.   

We're joined by Mike Papantonio, renowned trial attorney, legal analyst, and bestselling author. A senior partner at Levin Papantonio Rafferty, Mike has led high-profile legal battles against Big Pharma, tobacco companies, weapons manufacturers, and human traffickers. His latest novel, The Middleman, is a gripping legal thriller that delves into the shadowy world of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and their role in skyrocketing drug prices. Drawing from real-life courtroom experience, Papantonio blends legal insight with suspense to shine a light on urgent consumer issues.

Tyler Bond is the Research Director at the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), a nonprofit focused on strengthening retirement security in the U.S. He breaks down how federal policy decisions—and looming Social Security shortfalls—could impact millions of future retirees. As America faces a retirement crisis, Bond's insights are more urgent than ever.

Today we're joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They're leading Trash Talkin' — a new community conversation series addressing Philly's illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City's Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Department, the project centers resident voices to uncover the root causes of waste and environmental injustice.

Today we're joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They're leading Trash Talkin' — a new community conversation series addressing Philly's illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City's Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Department, the project centers resident voices to uncover the root causes of waste and environmental injustice.

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati sits down with former Philadelphia City Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown, author of the powerful memoir Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels. In this candid and inspiring conversation, Blondell shares what it takes to navigate the bruising arena of big-city politics as a Black woman leader, and how she carved out a legacy of public service, resilience, and purpose.

I'm  joined by Robin Williams Sr., CEO of Ronaj Movie Productions, and Karen Moore, Administrative Executive. We're talking about their powerful new documentary, "The Legendary Marion Williams"—a heartfelt tribute to one of gospel music's greatest voices. This film is more than just a biography—it's a musical and cinematic journey that honors a legacy. From its world premiere at Pavilion Afrique during the Cannes Film Festival to its current success streaming on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and Pluto TV, the film is reaching audiences around the globe. We'll also discuss the power of multimedia storytelling in preserving Black cultural legacies, and highlight upcoming events in Philadelphia where their work will be showcased.Stay connected with them at ronajmovieproductions.comFollow on social media:

Welcome to SpeakOUT, a monthly segment inside What's Going On where we explore the legal, political, and cultural forces shaping the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm proud to co-host this conversation with Angela Giampolo, founder of Giampolo Law Group and the voice behind Philly Gay Lawyer. Together, we break down the headlines — from Supreme Court rulings and executive orders to grassroots resistance and community advocacy. Whether it's gender-affirming care, Title IX, or anti-drag legislation, Angela brings the legal clarity and action steps you need to stay informed and empowered. 

We're joined by Keir Bradford‑Grey, one of the nation's leading civil rights attorneys and a partner at Marrone Law. The former Chief Defender of the Defender Association of Philadelphia, Keir has spent her career fighting for justice and equity. In this powerful conversation, we explore the real‑world impact of Trump‑era policies and recent Supreme Court rulings on civil rights — from voting and policing to protest and free speech. What's at stake, and how can we fight back? Keir breaks it all down.Connect with Keir:• Twitter: @KeirBGLaw• LinkedIn: Keir Bradford‑GreyResources::• ACLU Pennsylvania• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

Despite a little rain, the Overbrook Night Market was back in full swing — celebrating five years of food, music, and community vibes! Held at 63rd & Lancaster Avenue, the event brought out hundreds of neighbors for an unforgettable night of live performances, family fun, and 30+ amazing food vendors. Presented by State Representative Morgan Cephas and Overbrook West Neighbors, the Night Market continues to uplift West Philly with local flavor and hometown pride. 

Today's guest is Dr. Bernadine Ahonkhai—educator, historian, and Founder of Coalition4Justice. A passionate advocate and author, Dr. Ahonkhai joins us to discuss her powerful new book, Reclaiming Our Forgotten Legacy: The African Blueprint for Educational Transformation. The book reclaims African history, examines the global diaspora, and celebrates a legacy of resilience, identity, and contribution.