Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast explores the perennial question of whether it is the right time to buy or sell a home. Housing advocates and professionals assert that it is always the right time to purchase a home, emphasizing the importance of individual readiness. Linda Taylor, Director of Housing for the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, offers guidance on planning and resources to prepare prospective buyers for homeownership. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The high school winter sports season is concluding, marking the commencement of playoffs in Seattle, where Metro League basketball is at the forefront. Tara Davis, the Director of Athletics for Seattle Public Schools, provides insights into Metro League sports on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

This weekend, Seattle will capture the attention of the football world as the Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 60, vying for the NFL championship. For Seahawks fans, this game holds special significance, and JB, co-host of Gametime Sports on 1620 AM KYIZ, will provide insights into the game, the team, and the broader implications of the Super Bowl.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Pacific Northwest is set to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr., a distinguished historian and the founder of BlackPast.org, during a special Celebration of Life and Black History in Kent this Saturday. Dr. Taylor, who passed away in September, was renowned for his mentorship, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to the preservation of Black history, with a focus on the American West. LaNesha McCoy, Executive Director of BlackPast.org, discusses Dr. Taylor's enduring impact and the ongoing influence of his vision on the organization's mission nearly two decades after its inception on this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The United States Postal Service has implemented a policy change regarding postmarks that could significantly affect voting and healthcare access. The updated rule specifies that postmarks now indicate the date mail is first processed at a sorting facility, rather than when it is deposited in a mailbox. This alteration could lead to the rejection of ballots or healthcare documents if they are postmarked late, potentially disadvantaging vulnerable communities. The shift is poised to impact mail-in voting and medical paperwork, both of which depend heavily on timely postmarks. Dr. Carl Mack joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast recently featured an insightful interview with Anthony Smith, a student journalist interning during this year's legislative session in Olympia. Smith has been diligently covering pivotal legislative proposals that hold the potential to significantly alter Washington's tax framework, educational policies, and food security measures. Among the notable bills he has been tracking are the contentious "millionaire's tax" and proposed regulations on the use of artificial intelligence in educational settings. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

A recent report by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies indicates that Black America is already facing a recession, characterized by significant job losses and declines in housing, broadband access, federal employment, and artificial intelligence policy. The 2025 economic downturn has had a disproportionate impact on Black Americans, underscoring systemic inequities. NNPA Senior National Correspondent Stacy Brown joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more on this study. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

As more Americans pursue independence in their careers, solopreneurship is emerging as a transformative force in the small business landscape. These entrepreneurs operate businesses single-handedly, relying solely on their own hustle, strategy, and vision. Whether as a side hustle or a full-time endeavor, the trend of solopreneurship is gaining momentum. Sheila Winston, business consultant with Chase, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast recently featured an insightful discussion with Kiara Doyal, the lead high school sports writer for The Seattle Medium, focusing on the developments and highlights of the current high school basketball season within Seattle's Metro League. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Judge LeRoy McCullough, a distinguished figure in the legal community, retired from the King County Superior Court on December 31, 2025, marking the end of a career characterized by fairness and a humanistic approach to justice. Throughout his tenure, Judge McCullough has championed the law as a tool for empowerment and transformation rather than punishment. His legacy includes mentoring countless individuals and contributing to the development of community-supportive institutions, consistently advocating for the realization of human potential. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place, an organization based in Washington, is actively addressing the challenges of displacement and housing instability faced by Black communities statewide. Through its new initiative, the "For the Record" Community Needs Assessment, the organization seeks to prioritize the lived experiences of Black individuals by documenting their narratives. This effort aims to inform policy, advocacy, and future investments. By engaging directly with community members, Byrd Barr Place endeavors to ensure that decisions impacting Black communities are aligned with their voices and needs. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Families, educators, students, and community leaders convened at Garfield High School to tackle ongoing racial disparities in academic achievement impacting Black and Brown students. Organized by Principal Tarance Hart and community advocate Chukundi Salisbury, the meeting highlighted troubling data on declining proficiency in core subjects and significant achievement gaps between Black students and their peers. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black consumers in the United States wield a formidable annual spending power estimated between $1.6 and $1.8 trillion, comparable to the economies of many nations. However, this substantial economic influence has not translated into equitable wealth distribution, as Black communities continue to grapple with significant wealth gaps, underinvestment, and limited ownership. The lack of scrutiny regarding the allocation of this spending power exacerbates these disparities. Pamela J. Oakes, owner and principal of The Profitable Non-Profit, underscores the urgent need for strategic investment in Black communities to address these systemic issues. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Washington lawmakers have commenced a new legislative session with significant proposals on the agenda, including a 9.9% "millionaire's tax" on incomes exceeding $1 million. Governor Bob Ferguson advocates that this tax could yield billions for education, infrastructure, and tax relief for working families. Additionally, the session will address investments in housing, transportation, education, public safety, and protections for immigrant communities—issues that disproportionately impact African Americans and other marginalized groups throughout the state. Ed Prince shares more information on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

In the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, Sheila Winston, a business consultant with Chase, provides insights into effective budgeting strategies. As financial pressures mount due to increasing costs and competing priorities, budgeting emerges as a crucial instrument for financial management. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

In a significant move addressing the contentious debate over race and history, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland of Washington's 10th District is spearheading a bipartisan initiative to prevent the reinstatement of Confederate names on U.S. military bases. This effort comes in response to the Trump administration's indication of plans to reverse previous renaming efforts aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Political commentator Opio Sokoni joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk more about this issue. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Washington State Transportation Commission has approved the renaming of a 10-mile stretch of Benson Highway in South King County to Martin Luther King Jr. Way, following nearly two years of advocacy and public engagement. This decision reflects the legacy, resilience, and power of community action. Gwen Allen-Carston, executive director of the Kent Black Action Commission, played a pivotal role in leading this effort. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

In a historic move, Rhonda Lewis has been appointed to represent District 2 on the King County Council, marking her as the first Black woman to serve in this capacity. Her appointment signifies a pivotal shift, as women now constitute the majority of the nine-member council for the first time in the county's history. Lewis's presence on the council is expected to introduce fresh perspectives and priorities, underscoring the evolving dynamics of local governance.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle King County NAACP's readiness to progress is under scrutiny as Dr. Carl Mack, its former president, returns to the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Last week's discussion raised questions about the branch's future trajectory, suggesting potential challenges. This morning's dialogue seeks to explore these concerns further, providing clarity on the branch's capacity to advance. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Douglass-Truth Branch of the Seattle Public Library, named in honor of abolitionists Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth, commemorates its 50th anniversary with a community celebration on December 13. Elisa Murray from the Seattle Public Library shares more information on the historical significance of the branch's name change and the planned festivities. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Washington State Department of Commerce has appointed Truclusion as the consulting firm to lead the state's inaugural reparations study for descendants of enslaved Africans. This decision has prompted scrutiny from community leaders regarding the firm's credentials, its connection to Washington's Black community, and the transparency of the state's procurement process. Former State Representative Jesse Wineberry, a key advocate for the reparations legislation, is addresses these concerns on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle–King County NAACP, recognized as the oldest NAACP branch west of the Mississippi, has resumed full operations following the national office's decision to lift the suspension on local elections. This development comes after an internal review addressed database anomalies from the branch's 2024 elections. Dr. Carl Mack, former president of the Seattle–King County NAACP, elaborated on the matter during an appearance on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

As the holiday season unfolds, the threat of scams looms large, with fraudsters employing increasingly sophisticated tactics. Last year, nearly one-third of Americans were ensnared by online holiday scams, resulting in losses exceeding $302 million for Washington state consumers alone. To safeguard their finances and avert falling prey to such schemes, individuals are advised to exercise caution, particularly regarding deceptive travel websites and fraudulent package delivery notifications. Quincy Crawford, Branch Manager at Chase Bank, talks about how people can help protect their money and avoid falling victim to holiday scams. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium and Bennett Media Group are set to host their annual food drive this Saturday, a community initiative designed to assist families facing economic hardship. Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2600 South Jackson Street, the event is bolstered by the support of partners such as KRIZ, KYIZ, KBMS, the Bible Law Group, Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, among others. Jawaan Bennett joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more information about the food drive.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The King County Council has approved a $20 billion biennial budget for 2026-27, featuring historic investments to uplift Black communities across the region. Outgoing Councilmember De'Sean Quinn, who was instrumental in the budget's passage, discusses its impact on the Black community in the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. The budget allocates funds for housing stability, small business development, civic involvement, youth services, and reparative actions, addressing the county's longstanding discriminatory policies. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Kent Black Action Commission (KBAC) is spearheading a petition to rename nearly 10 miles of Benson Highway through Renton, Kent, and parts of unincorporated King County with honorary signage bearing Dr. King's name. With support from State Representative Mia Gregerson and coordination from the Washington State Department of Transportation, this effort aims to extend Martin Luther King Jr. Way from Seattle deeper into South King County—without impacting existing addresses or road names. The initiative invites community involvement through petition signing and engagement with local representatives, underscoring the importance of honoring Dr. King's legacy in the region. Executive Director Gwen Allen-Carsten joins us to share more about this movement, its significance, and how the community can get involved. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Black Members Caucus convened a town hall at Highline College to address the political, economic, and social challenges confronting Black Washingtonians. This gathering served as a rallying cry for action amid escalating threats to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts nationwide, particularly with the 2024 election on the horizon. Paula Sardinas of the Washington Build Back Black Alliance joined the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast to discuss the event's significance. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Mayor Harrell has formally conceded the mayoral race, acknowledging his tenure characterized by crisis recovery, substantial housing investments, and initiatives to foster unity within the city. As Seattle transitions to new leadership under Mayor-elect Katie Wilson, the implications of Harrell's legacy on the city's Black community and broader societal impact will be examined. Nate Miles joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share his perspective on Harrel's legacy.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium has announced its endorsements for pivotal local races in the 2025 general election, encompassing positions such as Seattle's mayor, city attorney, and city council roles. These endorsements underscore a meticulous evaluation of leadership, accountability, and the potential impact on the community. Jawann Bennett of the Bennett Media Group provides an in depth analysis of the endorsed candidates, highlighting those who distinguished themselves, the rationale behind the paper's support, and the implications for voters in this election. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Judge Charles V. Johnson Youth & Law Forum will host a free, daylong event for middle and high school students, parents, and guardians. This year's theme, "Call to Action: Your Voice, Your Power," seeks to inspire and empower youth to understand their rights, use their voices, and envision themselves as future leaders in law and justice. Scheduled for November 1st, the event will be held at Church By the Side of the Road and Tukwila Municipal Court. Bobby Alexander and Fae Brooks joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about this milestone year and why this program continues to make such a powerful impact. Interview by Chris B. Bennett

Cierra Sisters, a nonprofit dedicated to educating, empowering, and uplifting Black women and women of color affected by breast cancer, is set to host a Sip & Pour Brunch event this Sunday. The event will feature a custom candle pour and a curated brunch, designed to support the organization's life-saving work within the community. Dee Dee Scott of the Cierra Sisters joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more details on this event. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The prolonged federal government shutdown is exerting financial pressure on millions of retirees nationwide, as delays in Social Security Cost of Living Adjustments and increased Medicare Part B premiums take their toll. Financial analyst Charlene Crowell highlights that these developments could significantly impact the 22 million Americans who depend exclusively on Social Security for their income. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Erika Evans, a former federal and city prosecutor, is campaigning for the position of City Attorney in Seattle with a commitment to restoring fairness, rebuilding trust, and ensuring justice for all. Her platform emphasizes the importance of balance, compassion, and community within the City Attorney's Office. Evans, who carries a family legacy of civil rights and public service, has received an endorsement from The Seattle Medium. She seeks to leverage her professional experience and personal conviction in her pursuit of the role. Interview By Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle natives Mary Wideman-Williams and her daughter Marquinta Obomanu have inaugurated SistahBoss, a leadership initiative dedicated to empowering Black women through connection, growth, and mutual support. The organization offers mentorship, coaching, and workshops designed to enhance leadership skills while affirming identity and shared experiences. SistahBoss is at the forefront of redefining leadership paradigms for Black women in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Public Library has launched an initiative to provide free, drop-in tutoring and study support for K-12 students at nine branches citywide through its Homework Help program. This effort seeks to address the challenges of accessing affordable academic support, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related disruptions. Elisa Murray, Communications Strategist for The Seattle Public Library, will elaborate on the expansion of this crucial resource and its role in enhancing educational accessibility for all students. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) faces allegations of undermining fair housing protections, a foundational element of civil rights for nearly sixty years. Whistleblower complaints and congressional investigations have highlighted concerns regarding potential erosion of these safeguards. Charlene Crowell will address this pressing issue on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place, one of Seattle's oldest and most trusted community organizations, is organizing a Candidates Forum aimed at empowering residents to engage directly with electoral candidates. This initiative provides a platform for voters to pose questions and gain insights into the candidates' positions on critical issues affecting their daily lives. The forum represents a broader movement by community groups to enhance voter awareness and participation as the election season draws near. Dr. Angela Griffin, CEO of Byrd Barr Place joins us for today's Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about to talk about this important civic engagement effort. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the urgent need for early detection and support, particularly among Black women who face significant disparities in health outcomes. Despite progress in treatment and awareness, Black women are diagnosed with more aggressive breast cancer at younger ages and have a nearly 40% higher mortality rate compared to their white counterparts. Public Health - Seattle & King County is actively addressing these racial health gaps, focusing on initiatives that promote early detection and provide support to those affected within Black communities. Callista Kennedy, with Public Health — Seattle & King County joins us for today's Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about breast cancer awareness, early detection, and what's being done to close these racial health gaps. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

As Week 5 of the Metro League football season approaches, the competition is intensifying with several compelling narratives emerging. Among the highlights are O'Dea's esteemed Coach Monte Kohler, Ballard's exceptional quarterback Elli Gebbie, and the remarkable recoveries of athletes at Rainier Beach. Additionally, the impactful leadership of newly appointed coaches at Roosevelt and Franklin has garnered attention. Seattle Medium journalist Kiara Doyal has been meticulously documenting the season, offering in-depth profiles on players, coaches, and the captivating stories that unfold under the Friday night lights. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The deployment of the National Guard into U.S. cities under President Donald Trump has ignited significant controversy, leading to protests, legal challenges, and concerns over potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits military involvement in civilian law enforcement. Seattle is preparing for the potential arrival of federal troops, despite local officials highlighting a decrease in crime and the absence of civil unrest. This decision has faced criticism for opposing the preferences of governors and mayors and for contributing to the militarization of policing efforts. Civil rights leader, historian, and political commentator, Dr. Carl Mack, has more on this issue. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

For nearly two centuries, the Black Press has served as a trusted voice for Black America, chronicling stories and speaking truth to power. As it nears its 200th anniversary, its continued existence hinges on collective support. Attorney Ben Crump has pledged $50,000 to the Black Press, urging others to follow suit. Hazel Trice Edney, Editor-in-Chief of the Trice Edney News Wire, underscores the critical role of the Black Press and the urgent need for its support. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Governor Lisa Cook, the first Black woman appointed to the Federal Reserve in its 113-year history, faces a contentious removal effort that has ignited national debate. President Trump has declared his intention to dismiss her, and the Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation, despite the absence of documented misconduct. This controversy underscores the critical need for diverse representation in economic policymaking and raises concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence. Interview by Chris B. Bennett,

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its second annual fundraising gala, Legacy in Motion: Resistance Through Reclamation, on September 27 at the Hyatt Regency in Seattle. The event will convene community leaders, advocates, and supporters for an evening dedicated to celebration and reflection. Dr. Angela Griffin, president and CEO of Byrd Barr Place, will address attendees about the significance of the event. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Pastor Demetrius Devers of Greater Mt. Baker Baptist Church, alongside First Lady Cristi Devers, is set to mark his second pastoral anniversary this Sunday. The event, which celebrates his leadership and service, welcomes the community to join in the commemoration. Interview By Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Municipal Court will hold its annual Community Resource Day on September 12th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rainier Community Center. This initiative seeks to unite the court with local service providers to assist residents in resolving issues like warrants and tickets, while offering access to essential services such as housing, healthcare, employment, and education. Victoria Moreland with Seattle Municipal Court shares details on this event.. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black entrepreneurship is marked by resilience and vision but is hindered by systemic barriers, including limited access to capital and isolation. Many Black-owned businesses remain sole proprietorships, lacking the resources and support necessary for growth. Pamela J. Oakes, Owner and Managing Director of The Profitable Nonprofit, addresses these challenges, their significance, and potential solutions on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview By Chris B. Bennett.

The resumption of student loan repayments and credit reporting has led to a significant decline in credit scores for over 2 million borrowers, impacting their capacity to purchase vehicles, secure housing, and more. This financial burden disproportionately affects older borrowers and communities of color, particularly Black and Latino families who are already contending with existing wealth disparities. Charlene Crowell, Senior Fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending, provides insight into the implications of this development. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Jaebadiah Gardner, founder and CEO of Gardner Global, is spearheading a multimillion-dollar real estate initiative known as The Sarah Queen, set to rise in Seattle's Central District, a neighborhood of profound cultural and historical importance to the Black community. Gardner's professional journey, marked by determination and vision, spans from construction work to earning a law degree, culminating in leadership roles in real estate development. He will elaborate on his career trajectory and the significance of The Sarah Queen project on this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has been mandated to disburse nearly $32 million in previously sanctioned funds to private fair housing organizations, which manage the majority of fair housing complaints filed across the nation. Despite the Fair Housing Act being enacted over five decades ago, housing discrimination persists, with 2022 witnessing a record 33,000 complaints. These funds are crucial for enabling these organizations to persist in their efforts to combat housing discrimination. Charlene Crowell has more information. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle basketball icons Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton are set to reunite at the Kent YMCA for the Community in the Unity Back to School Fair on August 17. Scheduled from 1 to 6 p.m., the event invites youth 18 and under to participate in a day of sports, music, and resources. A highlight of the fair is the "Battle on the Blacktop," a 3-on-3 basketball competition where Kemp and Payton will lend their expertise as celebrity coaches. Paula Sardinas of FMS Global Strategies has more details on the event.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett

The Odessa Brown Children's Clinic is set to celebrate the grand opening of its new Central District location on August 9, featuring live music, games, arts and crafts, giveaways, community resources, and a vaccine clinic. This event signifies a return to the neighborhood where the clinic first established its roots over 50 years ago. Dr. Shaquita Bell, Senior Medical Director at OBCC, and Christian Love, a member of the OBCC Governance Council, will provide insights into the event and the significance of the new location. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.