Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

The City of Seattle has launched a restoration project to renew and preserve 11 Pan-African flag crosswalks in the Central District, which have long served as powerful symbols of Black history, culture, and community presence. This initiative addresses recent community concerns that markings on the crosswalks signaled a removal of the neighborhood's Black identity, instead affirming their significance as iconic landmarks born from a movement to safeguard Black identity and ownership amidst rapid displacement. The project encompasses repairs, cleaning, and repainting to ensure these historic symbols remain visible for years to come.

The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards, initially conceived as a community recognition campaign, has evolved into a significant regional initiative. Designed to celebrate businesses, organizations, leaders, and changemakers, the campaign has garnered widespread participation from nominees and community members. Keisha Credit, nominated in four categories, has been particularly instrumental in amplifying the campaign's reach, sparking considerable engagement across social media. This widespread promotion has not only driven voting but also fostered the discovery of new businesses, organizations, leaders, and entrepreneurs across the region.

The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) plays a crucial role in bolstering the state's economy by empowering small businesses, including microenterprises, sole proprietors, gig workers, and early-stage entrepreneurs. The organization facilitates access to vital capital, technical assistance, and essential resources necessary for growth and success. A cornerstone of its efforts is Evergreen BizLink, a complimentary online resource navigator designed to connect entrepreneurs with reliable business support organizations throughout their communities. The WSMA's overarching mission is to fortify the network of entrepreneurial support across Washington, fostering a thriving environment for business development.

King County is launching the next phase of its Participatory Budgeting process, inviting residents to join the Community Advisory Board. This board will help shape funding decisions in Skyway and White Center by designing the 2026 Participatory Grantmaking process and developing community engagement strategies. The initiative aims to ensure residents, particularly those historically marginalized, have a meaningful voice in identifying local priorities. Applications for the paid advisory board are open until June 7. Gloria Biggs shares the details on this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Nearly two years after the tragic shooting death of Garfield High School student Amarr Murphy-Paine, his family is transforming profound grief into community action. A series of events, including an official proclamation recognizing Amarr Murphy-Paine Day, a community "Chalk and Talk" memorial at Garfield High School, and a Gun Violence Awareness Summit, aim to honor his legacy while raising critical awareness about gun violence, youth mental health, and community engagement. At the forefront of these efforts is Amarr's father, Arron Murphy-Paine, who established the Amarr's Heart Foundation to support grieving fathers and assist families navigating the profound loss of a child. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Best of the Best Northwest Reader's Choice Awards has advanced to its voting phase, following weeks of community nominations from across the Pacific Northwest. This initiative empowers the public to determine winners in categories spanning business, education, food, athletics, community leadership, and nonprofit service. The program distinguishes itself by allowing community members to both nominate and select the ultimate recipients, solidifying its foundation as a genuine readers' choice award. Josiah Scott shares more information about the voting phase. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle's Preschool Program (SPP) and the City's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) are actively working to expand access to early childhood education, addressing a critical challenge for families seeking affordable, high-quality care. The Seattle Preschool Program is currently open for enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year. Concurrently, the Child Care Assistance Program offers financial support to eligible families, offsetting the cost of licensed child care and potentially saving them an average of $10,000 annually. Leilani Dela Cruz, Director of Programs with the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, and Erica Linear, Executive Director and CEO of Seed of Life, one of DEEL's preschool partners, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more about the program. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium has launched its inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Reader's Choice Awards, an initiative designed to recognize influential businesses, organizations, leaders, and changemakers across the Pacific Northwest. A key category, 'Black Beverage Maker,' aims to spotlight Black winemakers, brewers, spirit makers, and non-alcoholic beverage creators. This effort is supported by Urban Connoisseurs, an organization dedicated to elevating Black food, wine, and cultural experiences in the region, underscoring the importance of such recognition for community impact. Marcia Jones, Founder and CEO of Urban Connoisseurs, shares more on the Rhythm & News Podcast.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

King County has agreed to a $3.5 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit concerning the 2022 in-custody death of Michael Rowland, a 63-year-old Black man. Rowland died at the King County Jail after being restrained by correctional officers during the booking process while experiencing a mental health crisis. His family contended that his arrival by ambulance on a gurney should have prompted medical intervention rather than incarceration. This case has brought to light critical questions regarding jail protocols for individuals with mental illness, the application of restraint techniques, and accountability for deaths occurring in custody. On the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about this issue is attorney James Bible of the Bible Law Group. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Amidst ongoing economic uncertainty, financial experts are advocating for families to cultivate long-term financial stability through consistent habits, moving away from short-term solutions. Shak Adebimpe, Market Director for Chase in Washington, emphasizes that financial wellness is achieved not through perfection, but by establishing sustainable habits that foster continuous progress. Key strategies for strengthening one's financial foundation include diligent budgeting, consistent saving, robust fraud protection, and strategic future planning. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Acts On Stage has premiered "Black Man Goes To Therapy," a new play written by and starring Jeremy Rubin. The production addresses the critical, often-avoided discussion of mental health, healing, and vulnerability among Black men. The narrative follows a reluctant wanderer who, through an encounter with a struggling therapist, is compelled to confront his past, pain, and potential for healing, adeptly blending humor, emotion, and reflection. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

New legal claims filed by veteran Black Seattle police officers Michael Griffin and Corey Foy are raising renewed questions about workplace culture, accountability, and racial discrimination within the Seattle Police Department. Filed in King County Superior Court by Attorney James Bible, these claims detail allegations of years of racial harassment, unequal treatment, retaliation, and hostile workplace conditions. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black entrepreneurs in Seattle are confronting increasing pressure from rising costs, labor shortages, economic uncertainty, and shifting political and policy landscapes, challenging the traditional promise of entrepreneurial stability and resurfacing past hardships for many local Black business owners. This critical situation, highlighted by figures such as Lillian Rambus of Simply Soulful Café and Red Jackson of Lil Red's Takeout & Catering, underscores a growing struggle for survival within the community. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Linda Taylor has been appointed Chief Programs Officer for the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, following nearly three decades of dedicated service. Her elevation signifies the organization's commitment to institutional memory, community-rooted leadership, and bridging generational gaps in leadership and community work. With the Urban League approaching a century of service, Taylor's new role highlights the ongoing importance of legacy, leadership, and sustaining mission-driven initiatives. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium has launched the inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Reader's Choice Awards, a new community-driven initiative designed to celebrate individuals, businesses, organizations, and leaders making significant contributions across the Pacific Northwest. This campaign aims to recognize impactful efforts in diverse areas, including business, education, food, wellness, youth programs, and community leadership. Currently in its nominations phase, the program emphasizes the critical importance of community participation in identifying those who will advance to the final voting round. Josiah Scott shares more about the Best of the Best on this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Public Schools is set to implement a new district-wide cell phone policy next week, mandating that students keep their devices powered off and out of sight throughout the school day. The initiative aims to enhance student focus, minimize classroom distractions, and establish uniform expectations across all district campuses. The policy introduces more stringent regulations for younger students, while high schoolers will be permitted limited usage. Seattle Public School's Superintendent Ben Shuldiner shares more details about the new policy on this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black Panther Park has officially opened in Skyway, Seattle, marking a significant community achievement dedicated to preserving the legacy of Seattle's Black Panther Party. The new space, spearheaded by Nurturing Roots and founder Nyema Clark, aims to commemorate the Party's historical contributions to community empowerment, food justice, and self-determination. It features public art, community resources, and designated areas for gathering, reflection, and healing, reflecting a long-standing community effort to honor this impactful heritage. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

A new report from Washington state reveals a pervasive issue of workplace harm affecting Black women. Conducted by the Washington State Women's Commission and Blacks United in Leadership & Diversity, the survey found that nearly every Black woman reported experiencing microaggressions, exclusion, and barriers to advancement, despite their qualifications and commitment to public service. This finding emerges amidst a period where over 300,000 Black women nationwide have lost their jobs, often coinciding with the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Ayanna Colman, Chief Human Resources Officer for the Office of Administrative Hearings, shares more about the report on this episode of the Rythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle has appointed Seattle native James Bush as its new Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. This significant leadership change marks a new chapter for the organization, aiming for expanded impact and growth across the region. In his new role, Bush will be central to shaping the delivery of critical services, including housing, education, workforce development, and public health, reinforcing the Urban League's commitment to community well-being. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The City of Seattle has announced a street designation in honor of Rev. Dr. Robert L. Manaway Sr., recognizing his more than 40 years of leadership as the senior pastor of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. Under his guidance, the church has expanded from a small congregation to a cornerstone institution serving over 1,700 members, significantly impacting the community through initiatives addressing housing, food security, and broader community support. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks are approaching the 2026 season with a strategy to reload rather than rebuild. Despite key departures, including Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, the team is implementing strategic moves to maintain its competitive standing. Possessing limited draft capital, the Seahawks utilized their first-round selection to acquire Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price, a decision signaling a clear intent to rebuild the backfield and ensure offensive balance. JB, co-host of gametime sports talk, breaks down the Seahawks' draft, offseason moves, and what fans can expect moving forward. Interview by Chris B. Bennett. 

The Seattle and King County Clinic is set to offer free dental, vision, and medical services from April 23 through April 26 at Seattle Center. This four-day event will provide essential care to individuals without requiring insurance, identification, or proof of residency. A decade-long effort, the clinic has already served over 33,000 people across the region and anticipates assisting more than 3,000 patients this year. For many, particularly immigrants, refugees, and underserved communities, the clinic represents a vital lifeline for accessing basic medical care. Azmi Haroun with the Seattle Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs shares more details. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Urban Connoisseurs will host the Men, Wine, and Spirits Dinner in Seattle, an event designed to celebrate Black excellence within the wine and spirits industry. The dinner will showcase an array of Black winemakers and distillers, while simultaneously honoring the pioneering legacy of John June Lewis Sr., recognized as the first Black winery owner in the United States. While tickets for the current year's event are no longer available, this initiative's broader impact extends beyond a single evening, aiming to foster increased space, opportunity, and visibility for Black professionals within the wine and spirits sector. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Detective Denise "Cookie" Bouldin, a trusted figure in Seattle law enforcement and a bridge between the police department and communities of color, has reached a $750,000 settlement with the City of Seattle following allegations of decades of racial and gender discrimination within the Seattle Police Department. While the settlement legally closes the case, her attorney, James Bible, asserts it does not fully reflect the scope of her experiences during over 40 years of service. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Community advocate Deaunte Damper has been named a grand marshal for the 2026 Seattle Pride Parade, an honor recognizing his impactful work at the intersection of Black identity, public health, and LGBTQ advocacy. This development aligns with Seattle Pride 2026's theme, "Rally," which underscores unity, visibility, and collective action in response to increasing challenges faced by LGBTQIA2S+ communities. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Experts assert that financial communication is paramount for the long-term success of relationships. Couples are advised to engage in open and honest discussions concerning shared expenses, debt, long-term objectives, and financial values. This collaborative financial planning is essential for shaping both daily life and future prospects. On the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about how couples can build a strong financial foundation and avoid some of the most common pitfalls is Quincy Crawford with Chase. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

A coalition of 15 state attorneys general and the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), challenging efforts to roll back key fair housing protections, including the critical use of 'disparate impact.' Advocates warn that weakening these safeguards could impede accountability for discriminatory practices and exacerbate housing discrimination, particularly as access to affordable housing remains a significant national concern.  On the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about this issue is Charlene Crowell, a longtime advocate and expert on economic justice. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

iUrban Teen is set to host its Illuminating Futures: Seattle Gala 2026 on Saturday, April 4, at Block 41. The event serves as a crucial fundraiser, supporting programs designed to equip young individuals with skills for careers in STEM, leadership, and innovation. The gala will feature a performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Howard Hewett and a distinctive "Sneaker Balling" experience, blending formal elegance with individual expression. Deena Pierott, founder of iUrban Teen, shares more about the event. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Washington state's Covenant Homeownership Program, a pioneering initiative, aims to rectify historical systemic exclusion of Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color from homeownership. Championed by State Representative Jamila Taylor, the program offers crucial down payment and closing cost assistance, enabling hundreds of families to achieve homeownership and build generational wealth. However, the program's expansion now faces federal scrutiny, prompting critical discussions on equity, policy, and the nation's approach to addressing discriminatory legacies. Representative Jamila Taylor, the architect of the Covenant Homeownership legislation, shares what's at stake moving forward. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle native Kyla Marks, a fourth-year dental student at Meharry Medical College, has been crowned Miss Meharry, becoming the first student from Washington state to earn the title. This historic achievement reflects her journey rooted in resilience, representation, and a deep commitment to serving underserved communities through healthcare. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Church by the Side of the Road, in collaboration with the Low Income Housing Institute, has inaugurated CBSR Village, a 40-unit tiny home community in Tukwila. This initiative aims to offer shelter, stability, and supportive services to individuals, couples, and families experiencing homelessness. Rev. Terrence Proctor, senior pastor of the Church by the Side of the Road, elaborated on the village during an appearance on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Young people across Washington are taking significant steps to advance mental health support within their communities, utilizing leadership, peer support, and advocacy. The Therapy Fund Foundation is at the forefront of this initiative through its Youth Mental Health Ambassador Program, which equips young individuals to aid their peers and dismantle the stigma associated with mental health, with a particular focus on Black communities. This program was highlighted on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, featuring Ashley McGirt, founder and CEO of The Therapy Fund Foundation. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The City of Seattle is enhancing early learning opportunities by expanding the Seattle Preschool Program to include approximately 2,600 seats citywide, with an additional 100 seats funded through the Family Education Preschool and PromiseLevy. This initiative, free for most families, seeks to deliver high-quality early education to children from diverse backgrounds, equipping them for future success. Enrollment for the 2026-27 academic year is currently open.  Dr. Duane Chappell, Director of the Department of Early Learning here in the City of Seattle, and also Leilani De La Cruz, Director of Programs, join the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more information. Interview by Chris B. Bennett. 

A new musical titled Aviatrix, penned by veteran journalist Angela Poe Russell, chronicles the inspiring journey of Bessie Coleman, the pioneering aviator who became the first Black and Native American woman to secure a pilot's license. The full production is set to premiere this spring at the Seattle Public Theatre. However, audiences can catch an exclusive preview during the Seattle Association of Black Journalists' Black Voices Matter event on March 14th at the Northwest African American Museum. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN), a pivotal health service provider in the Pacific Northwest, has announced the appointment of Ernest Walker as its new executive director. A Seattle native and University of Washington alumnus, Walker brings extensive community ties and national nonprofit leadership experience to the position. Established in 1987 in response to the AIDS epidemic, POCAAN has evolved to play a crucial role in promoting health equity and delivering culturally responsive care to communities of color across the region. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Financial stress is a pervasive issue affecting individuals' mental and physical health. Experts in the financial sector recommend actionable strategies to alleviate this burden. Key measures include pinpointing the underlying causes of financial strain, devising a feasible budget, and establishing an emergency savings fund. Incremental actions can substantially enhance financial resilience and mitigate stress. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast commemorates the legacy of Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement and former presidential candidate. The episode includes insights from Hazel Trice Edney, editor-in-chief of the Trice Edney News Wire, who shares her personal and professional experiences with Rev. Jackson. Additionally, the discussion addresses the closure of the Richmond Free Press, a significant Black newspaper where Edney began her journalism career under founder Ray Boone.  Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The closure of the Richmond Free Press, a distinguished Black newspaper, has heightened concerns regarding the precarious state of local journalism within the Black Press. For nearly two centuries, Black-owned newspapers have been pivotal in chronicling history, advocating for accountability, and safeguarding narrative power in communities frequently neglected by mainstream media. The loss of such a publication signifies the disappearance of a vital watchdog, a historical record-keeper, and a trusted community voice. The preservation of these institutions is crucial to the community's ongoing struggle for equity and representation. Dr. Toni Draper, CEO and publisher of The AFRO-American Newspapers, joins the podcast to share more. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place in Seattle will host its inaugural community science fair, "Our Science Fair: Energy Conservation Matters," on February 28th from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free event will offer interactive experiments, resource tables, information on summer youth programs, and cash incentives for participants. The fair seeks to celebrate the contributions of Black innovators in science, technology, and energy, while engaging the community in educational activities. Dr. Angela Griffin, CEO of Byrd Barr Place, joins the podcast to share more. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The nation is mourning the loss of Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., the civil rights icon, two-time presidential candidate, founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and a global advocate for justice and human rights. He passed away at the age of 84, closing a chapter on more than half a century of activism that reshaped American politics and expanded the possibilities of Black political power. While much of his work was national and international, his impact was felt deeply here in the Pacific Northwest. Community activist Eddie Rye, Jr. reflects on Rev. Jackson's life, his influence on the social and political fabric of the region, and the legacy he leaves behind. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

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.