Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

Cierra Sisters will host a community event, Wellness on the Block, at the Skyway Resource Center in Seattle on July 19th. The event aims to promote community wellness through a block walk, food, games, prizes, vendors, and various activities. Shayla Akande, the new CEO of Cierra Sisters, alongside Board President De De Scott, share more information about the event and reflect on the organization's commitment to uplifting and supporting the local community. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its second annual Block Party, a community-focused event celebrating the cultural heritage of Seattle's Central District. Scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. on 18th Avenue, the event will include live music, diverse food offerings, local vendor shopping, and entertainment such as bouncy houses. Performances by DJ Topspin and headliner Royce the Choice will highlight the festivities. Rosie Grant from Byrd Barr Place provides further insights into the celebration and its anticipated impact on the community. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

King County's property tax relief program for seniors and disabled residents has expanded, increasing income eligibility to broaden access. Despite this progress, the system remains challenging to navigate, particularly for seniors unfamiliar with online applications. The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle is actively assisting elders in accessing these benefits, ensuring they can age in place with dignity and stability. Linda Taylor, Housing Director for the Urban League, elaborates on the program's workings and the organization's efforts to support seniors in securing these essential benefits. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Controversy surrounds the potential demolition of the historic building that once housed the Seattle Opportunities Industrialization Center (SOIC) and later the Seattle Vocational Institute (SVI), a site of profound significance to the Central District and African American community. Established in 1966 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Samuel B. McKinney, SOIC played a crucial role in training and placing African Americans into the workforce during a time of scarce opportunities. Community activist Eddie Rye, Jr. is actively raising awareness about the threat to this landmark, highlighting its historical importance and the need to preserve its legacy. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a budget proposal that seeks to reduce Pell Grant funding by $9 billion, a move that could significantly impact low-income, first-generation, and adult students who rely on these grants for educational support. The proposal includes measures to decrease the maximum grant award and impose stricter eligibility criteria, potentially restricting access for many students. Charlene Crowell, a prominent advocate for financial justice, is available to provide insight into the implications of this development. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Sheila Winston, a Senior Business Banking Consultant with Chase Bank, emphasizes the dual nature of small business ownership, highlighting both its challenges and rewards. She underscores the critical role of trust and collaboration, advocating for the support of reliable allies, consultants, and confidants as essential in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles without state consent has evoked comparisons to 2020, when similar measures were employed by the Trump administration to suppress Black-led protests advocating for justice and reform. This development has resulted in an increased federal presence in majority-Black cities and a resurgence of rhetoric that criminalizes protest and dissent. Political commentator Opio Sokoni addresses these concerns on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, highlighting the implications for the future of Black cities, Black mayors, and Black-led movements. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Tommie Burton, renowned for his gospel and soul music, has been appointed as the official national anthem singer for the Seattle Kraken. Burton's musical career began modestly with karaoke nights and open mic sessions, evolving to performances before 17,000 spectators at Climate Pledge Arena. He reflects on his musical journey and the elements that sustain his vocal and spiritual vitality on this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett

Kwabi Amoah-Forson, the visionary behind the All You Can Eat campaign, has initiated a grassroots movement to combat youth food insecurity in Seattle, Tacoma, and beyond during the summer months. Launched three years ago in Tacoma and now expanding nationally, the campaign ensures children, teens, and college students receive free meals at participating restaurants daily from July 1 to September 1, addressing the gap left by school-based meal programs during summer. This initiative reflects a growing effort to tackle the pressing issue of food access for young people when traditional support systems are unavailable. Interview by Chris B. Bennett. 

The Central Area Senior Center in Seattle is set to host a Father's Day celebration on Friday, June 13, offering free haircuts, entertainment, food, and more. The celebration seeks to foster community engagement and deliver a joyous and memorable experience for seniors. Dian Ferguson, the executive director of the center, will be present at the event and shares more information in this episode.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The complexities of deciding whether to buy or rent a home are underscored by rising housing costs, fluctuating interest rates, and economic uncertainty. Quincy Crawford, Branch Manager with Chase, engages with the Seattle Medium to explore the advantages and disadvantages of renting versus buying. This dialogue seeks to assist individuals in determining if the current climate is conducive to pursuing homeownership.

The MLK Gandhi Empowerment Initiative is providing free training, mentorship, and essential skills in high-demand tech fields such as cybersecurity, AI, and cloud computing, aiming to dismantle barriers and expand tech career opportunities for underserved communities. With over 150 students currently enrolled, the program demonstrates significant potential. Eddie Rye and Omer Qureshi join Chris B. Bennett to tell our listeners more about the initiative.

In a continued effort to support early childhood education, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, alongside the Department of Education and Early Learning, has announced one-time payments of up to $555 for nearly 5,000 childcare educators across the city. This initiative, now in its fifth year, seeks to acknowledge and retain the dedicated professionals nurturing Seattle's youngest residents, many of whom are women of color.  Dr. Dwane Chappelle, director of the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, joins today's Rhythm & News Podcast to share more about the program. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place will host its inaugural Health and Wellness Fair on May 17 at the Rainier Community Center in Seattle, from 12 to 4 p.m. The event is tailored to the Black and African American community, offering complimentary health screenings, vaccinations, wellness resources, and workshops aimed at promoting comprehensive care. Wendy Armour, Director of Advancement for Byrd Barr Place, discusses the event with Christopher B. Bennett on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

The 2025 legislative session in Washington State concluded with notable developments affecting the Black community, as highlighted by Ed Prince, Executive Director of the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs. In a discussion with Christopher B. Bennett on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, Prince elaborated on the session's outcomes and their potential implications for the Black community.

Seattle Public Schools is tackling the critical shortage of teachers of color with a strategic focus on increasing the presence of Black men in the classroom. Through the Academy for Rising Educators, the district is implementing initiatives to cultivate teaching talent from within the community, thereby dismantling stereotypes and fostering enduring transformation. This program emphasizes professional development for teachers of color, while the district concurrently strives to establish an inclusive educational environment for all students, irrespective of race or ethnicity. Dr. Sarah Pritchett, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Seattle Public Schools, meets with Christopher B. Bennett for this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Kristi Brown, the esteemed owner and executive chef of Communion Restaurant & Bar, has embarked on a remarkable culinary journey spanning several years. Her dedication and passion have culminated in the establishment of a family-owned and operated restaurant, earning her numerous accolades both locally and internationally. In a recent podcast, Brown discusses the evolution of her restaurant and the experiences that have shaped her culinary path. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Gun violence continues to impact communities nationwide, with Seattle being no exception. Recently, community members, leaders, and youth convened at the Northwest African American Museum for an event titled Voices for Change: A Future Without Gun Violence. Organized by Seattle Cares Mentoring Movement and the 4C Coalition, the event focused on fostering open dialogue and developing community-driven solutions to tackle the issue.

In 2020, Target committed $2 billion to support Black communities, but has since reduced its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, prompting a nationwide boycott. Initiated by Rev. Jamal Bryant, the boycott has reportedly cost Target $12 billion. The National Newspaper Publishers Association, under Dr. Ben Chavis, urges Target to invest fully in Black-owned media.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett. 

Under a recent executive order by President Trump, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) has been drastically reduced, now operating with only three employees to fulfill its mission. Concurrently, the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, crucial for affordable housing and small business loans, is experiencing substantial cutbacks. Charlene Crowell, a prominent advocate for economic justice, cautions that these actions may adversely affect Black, Latino, and underserved communities. Charlene Crowell, a leading voice in advocating for economic justice in America, speaks with Christopher B. Bennett about this issue in this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast.

The Trump administration has initiated an ideological offensive against America's higher education institutions, targeting private universities, DEI programs, and international students and faculty. Harvard University has resolutely defended its academic freedom, despite the risk of forfeiting over $2 billion in federal funding. Conversely, smaller private colleges and historically Black institutions may be significantly more susceptible to political encroachment. Hazel Trice Edney, a Harvard alum and publisher of the Trice Edney News Wire, speaks with Christopher B. Bennett about this issue in this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast.

In a recent and troubling development under President Donald Trump's second term, the U.S. National Park Service has quietly edited and removed key content related to Black history and the horrors of slavery. This includes deleting a photo of Harriet Tubman and eliminating references to enslaved African Americans on its Underground Railroad webpage. Additionally, tributes to Jackie Robinson and the Tuskegee Airmen have been removed from Defense Department pages, and nearly 400 books, including works by Maya Angelou and Holocaust memorials, have been purged from the U.S. Naval Academy library. These actions indicate a broader pattern of rewriting or erasing history. Political analyst and commentator Opio Sokoni shares his perspectives on the issue in today's Rhythm & News podcast episode. Interview by Chris B. Bennett

In a recent decision, the U.S. Senate voted 52-48 to overturn a rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau that would have capped overdraft fees at big banks to a reasonable $5. Instead, banks are now permitted to charge fees upwards of $35 per transaction. This vote has been characterized by advocates as a $21 million gift to big banks at the expense of working families. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau had aimed to address regulatory gaps exposed by the 2008 financial crisis. Nationally syndicated columnist Charlene Crowell shares more information on today's Rhythm & News podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Public Health—Seattle & King County will host its annual "Every Month Is Black History Month: A Community Health & Resource Fair" on April 12th at the Northwest African American Museum in Seattle. The event will feature health screenings, a Black business marketplace, and free mammograms and car seats for those who make an appointment. The initiative aims to provide essential resources and support to the Black community in Seattle and King County. Daphne Pie with Public Health—Seattle & King County has the details. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle Guild hosted its inaugural 'Trailblazing Black Women in Washington' Gala at the Northwest African American Museum, celebrating five Black women leaders for their significant contributions to education, healthcare, civic leadership, literature, and community empowerment. The event underscored the vital role of storytelling, mutual support, and the preservation of Black history and excellence for future generations. Collette Robinson, President of the Guild shares more details about the event. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Public Health—Seattle & King County will host its annual “Every Month Is Black History Month: A Community Health & Resource Fair” on April 12th at the Northwest African American Museum in Seattle. The event will offer free meals, museum admission, and a range of services and activities, including health screenings, parenting resources, a Black business marketplace, and free mammograms and car seats for those with appointments. Devon Love, Equity and Community Engagement Manager with Public Health—Seattle & King County, shares details on the upcoming event. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration-Continuation Committee is set to host its annual Day of Remembrance and Awards Program, marking the 57th anniversary of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. Hayward Evans, a host of the event, discussed the upcoming program during an interview on the Rhythm and News podcast with Christopher B. Bennett. 

Brenda Miller, owner of Velvet's Big Easy in Tacoma, transitioned from a successful career at Boeing to pursue her culinary passion. With the support of Chase's Coaching for Impact Program, Miller received mentorship and hands-on assistance from Sheila Winston, Vice President and Certified Senior Business Consultant at Chase Bank. This guidance helped Miller transform her business from a food truck and catering service into a thriving brick-and-mortar restaurant. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Rho Lambda Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority is offering scholarships to young women in King County aiming to advance their college education. With the application deadline approaching, the organization is committed to supporting these aspiring scholars. Rachel Steward, the sorority's president, will provide insights into the organization and the scholarship on the Rhythm & News podcast.

Dr. Brent Jones, Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, has announced he will step down from his role on September 3, 2025. A Seattle native and Franklin High School graduate, Dr. Jones has led the district through significant challenges, including financial instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure saw accelerated academic growth, strengthened mental health services, secured major voter support for education levies, and the launch of innovative programs. Dr. Jones will be remembered for his dedication to equity reforms and his impactful leadership in shaping the district's future. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Rhythm & News Podcast interview with national columnist Charlene Crowell discussing Donald Trump's recent attacks on the Department of Education and the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau and the effects this will have on the economy and Black borrowers. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The removal of Black Lives Matter Plaza near the White House is raising significant concerns about the trajectory of civil rights under Trump's second term. The mural, once a potent symbol of resistance against police brutality and systemic racism, has been eradicated amidst escalating conservative opposition to racial equity, Diversity Equity and Inclusion programs, and local government autonomy in Washington, D.C. Political analyst Opio Sokoni joins the discussion to examine the implications of the mural's removal, the broader backlash against racial justice initiatives, and the potential threats to Black political and economic power under Trump's agenda. Interview By Chris B. Bennett.

Coach Mike Bethea has solidified Rainier Beach High School's legacy in Washington high school basketball by leading the Vikings to 10 state championships. His tenure has seen numerous former players advance to the NBA, notably All-Star and Seattle basketball icon Jamal Crawford. In a significant development this year, Crawford has returned to his alma mater to serve as an assistant coach alongside Bethea. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black-owned small businesses in the United States are demonstrating a strong sense of optimism about the economy, as revealed by the JPMorgan Chase 2025 Business Leaders Outlook Survey. Entrepreneurs express confidence in their industry's performance, access to funding, and potential for growth, despite facing significant challenges such as inflation, cybersecurity risks, and talent shortages. Sheila Winston, Chase Vice President and Certified Senior Business Consultant, discusses the current state of black-owned small businesses and the strategies these entrepreneurs are employing to thrive. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Civil rights leaders and activists are mounting a robust resistance against Donald Trump's anti-woke agenda and proposed budget cuts, which threaten to impact Black communities significantly. The backlash encompasses economic boycotts, legal challenges, and grassroots mobilization aimed at safeguarding DEI programs and ensuring the future of economic and social justice in America. The proposed budget cuts by Trump could have devastating effects on Black communities, and the resistance is gaining momentum. The Seattle Medium interviews political commentator Opio Sokoni to discuss what's at stake for the future of economic and social justice in America. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

President Donald Trump's executive action to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across the federal government has ignited a movement spearheaded by civil rights leaders, including former Seattle NAACP President Dr. Carl Mack. Companies such as Target have begun phasing out their DEI initiatives, raising significant concerns about the future of racial equity in both public and private sectors. Dr. Mack joins the discussion to address this growing movement and its potential impact. Interview by Chris B. Bennett. 

Target Corporation, once hailed as a leader in corporate diversity, is now facing a firestorm from both conservative groups and civil rights organizations. Following its decision to scale back DEI initiatives, Target is being sued by right-wing groups while also facing boycotts from civil rights advocates who say the company has abandoned its commitments to diversity.

President Donald Trump has issued executive orders to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within the federal government, leading civil rights leaders to initiate an economic boycott to safeguard these essential initiatives. Corporations such as Target have started to eliminate their DEI programs, raising concerns about the future of racial equity in both public and private sectors. Former Seattle NAACP President Dr. Carl Mack contributes to the dialogue on this expanding movement and its implications.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett

A new GOP-led bill seeks to dismantle the Washington State Office of Equity, established to ensure equitable access to state services and promote racial justice. Proponents argue it would reduce taxpayer expenditure, while opponents view it as a direct assault on communities of color. Paula Sardinhas, President and CEO of FMS Global Strategies and a prominent critic of the bill, discusses the potential consequences. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Dr. Norward Brooks, a distinguished leader in Seattle's Black community, has released a new book, "A Man of Many Firsts: Memoirs of Norward J. Brooks, PhD." The book details his journey from modest beginnings in New Iberia, Louisiana, to a trailblazing career in public service, his efforts to uplift the Black community, and his involvement in pivotal moments in Seattle's history. Accompanying him for a discussion and signing event is his daughter, Cleo Brooks. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The 2025 Black History Month Awards Ceremony, organized by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Committee, will recognize African American pioneers in labor, education, and public service on Monday, February 17, at the Holgate Street Church of Christ. The event includes a complimentary networking dinner followed by an awards ceremony, and will be hosted by community leaders Eddie Rye and Hayward Evans. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place is hosting the Unsung Heroes of Black Seattle Luncheon, an event honoring individuals who have significantly impacted the community through education, business, and civic service. The luncheon celebrates the legacy and contributions of Black leaders, activists, and community builders.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Today, the Cierra Sisters community will convene to raise awareness and commemorate the legacy of their founder, Bridgette Hempstead, a breast cancer survivor and staunch advocate. Bridgette devoted her life to dispelling fear and enhancing knowledge about breast cancer, particularly in African American and underserved communities. Her daughters will perpetuate her mission through Cierra Sisters and host a World Cancer Day event this Saturday at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center. Chris B. Bennett interviews Dee Scott for this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

De'Sean Quinn has been appointed to the King County Council District 5 seat following Dave Upthegrove's election as Washington State Land Commissioner. Quinn, with extensive experience from his tenure on the Tukwila City Council and King County Metro, will represent Renton, Kent, Des Moines, SeaTac, and Normandy Park. He will outline his priorities for District 5 and his vision for its future. Chris B. Bennett interviews De'Sean Quinn for this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

The Seattle Black Fire Fighters Association has achieved a significant legal victory in their ongoing effort to retain a historic property in Seattle's Central Area. A King County Superior Court judge determined that the executive board's sale of the property contravened a prior court order, holding the defendants in contempt and imposing financial penalties. The final decision on whether to annul the sale will be made later this month, representing a critical step in the endeavor to maintain the landmark within the Black firefighters' community who established its legacy.

Seattle Public Schools and Metro League Athletic Director Tara Davis has joined the Rhythm & News Podcast to discuss the Seattle Metro League's participation in the State Basketball Playoffs. As the regular season concludes, the focus shifts to the playoff push for numerous teams, particularly those within the Metro League. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Donald Trump's recent attacks on DEI policies, which could result in significant job losses for Black federal employees and private-sector workers, are under scrutiny. Political analyst Opiyo Sokoni joins Chris B. Bennett to discuss the implications of these policies, including the elimination of DEI programs and the threat to affirmative action policies.

The Washington State Legislative session is in full swing, with numerous bills under consideration. Chris B. Bennett, host of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, engages in a discussion with Ed Prince, Executive Director of the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs, about the current legislative session.

The historic property owned by the Seattle Black Fire Fighters Association has long stood as a symbol of heritage and community in Seattle's Central Area. Recently, the sale of this property has incited outrage among retired members and community leaders, who argue it was sold improperly and without proper consent. The legal battle over the property persists, with delays in court decisions exacerbating the frustration of those striving to retain it as an asset of the Seattle Black Fire Fighters Association. Clarence Williams, retired firefighter and former SBFFA President, and attorney Yohannes Sium are addressing this issue on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News podcast.

Frank P. Barrow, a revered community leader, will be honored at a celebration of his birthday and work anniversary at the Royal Esquire Club this Sunday. The event will feature a discussion on Barrow's impactful career and his significant contributions to the community. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.