Podcasts about community voices

Tom Felkner, Executive Director of the San Diego Museum Council, Brian Drechsler, Executive Director of the Navy SEAL Museum, and Alethea Arguilez, Executive Director of First 5 San Diego, discuss Museum Month, leadership, service, and expanding access for 70+ museums across the region. This episode explores nonprofit leadership, early childhood education, veterans' impact, public-private partnerships, and how executives can strengthen community engagement and workforce development. Listen Where You Live!About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 20 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

Jeff C. Williams joins Randy Eccles and other contributors as a new co-host, editor, and producer of Community Voices as it enters its sixth year of production.

What should a 30-acre, 537,000-square-foot hospital become after a century of care? We sit down with Centra's Denise Woernle, urban planner Suzanne Schulz, and Lynchburg's economic development director, Marjette Upshur, to map a community-first path for reimagining Virginia Baptist Hospital. The conversation unpacks adaptive reuse in plain terms: listen first, decide later. Together, we walk through the process from January listening sessions to February goal-setting to a March community charrette designed to build trust, reduce surprise and turn lived experience into actionable plans.We connect the study to Centra's modernization plan, including new facilities coming online and service transitions that open space at VBH. Rather than let the campus go dark, the team explores how partnerships, potential tax incentives and careful market analysis can spark a viable future. With strong architecture, a prime location between downtown and Liberty University and a deeply personal legacy for neighbors and staff, VBH stands out as a rare chance to blend preservation with progress. We address the stakes plainly: an empty site drains value, while an engaged process can create jobs, honor history and keep the neighborhood vibrant.For more content from Centra Health check us out on the following channels.YouTubeFacebookInstagramTwitter

In this episode of TOA Talks 70 years of Ajax, we take a glimpse at Ajax's future in conservations with Abigail Chiu, Youth Engagement Advisory Committee (YEAC) member and Patricia Bolger, an active participant in the Town's 55+ Community.

UND launches a new campus master plan, Fargo welcomes Maria's Homestyle Mexican, and a North Dakotan in Minneapolis shares a firsthand view of immigration enforcement.

"the microphone is a mirror for our culture – when leaders start listening, cultures start changing..."What if your voice, not just your words, could build deeper trust and connection? Tom highlights that audio communication activates the brain's pleasure centre. People often trust what they hear more than what they see.This trust mechanism is invaluable for leaders aiming to foster genuine two-way communication. It moves beyond formal messaging, making leaders more relatable. Human trust is becoming more and more important as we move into an AI generated era.AI will not replace humans enjoying each other's company, having interactions that an audience can feel, and building niche communities that create impact beyond monetisation, spark movements, and give rise to new communities in turn.Think about it: have you ever felt like you “know” a podcast host, even without meeting them? This phenomenon creates a powerful, intimate connection. Tom Fox calls it “your voice is in my head” and notes how listeners pick up on inflections, emotions, and authenticity. Tom and I discuss how organisations can leverage this and Tom outlines five reasons in the business world to have a podcast: thought leadership, relationship building, audience engagement, content creation, and sales – a B2B podcast does all five, conveying information and creating an authentic voice.The power of this approach is also that people get the chance to use their voice to build and inspire communities, wherever they sit in the hierarchy, and all voices can be heard.What untapped communities or conversations exist within your organisation that, if amplified, could lead to significant cultural shifts?The main insights you'll get from this episode are :Initially a segue from corporate compliance (making businesses more successful) and blogging (for marketing purposes as a sole trader) to podcasting (and the community behind it) as a means of communicating beyond writing.The audio format of podcasting is very different from video - hearing something instils more trust than seeing it, and voices/inflections are remembered and recognised – despite being as old as humankind, storytelling still resonates.The effectiveness of podcasts is measured in terms of social media touchpoints with an audience (listens, engagements, views, etc.) based on an IAB certified download (listened to for 60 seconds or longer).This method highlights customer engagement and the impact of voice - leaders can use internal podcasting as a supplemental form of communication to share messages and foster two-way communication within their organisations.Podcasting is about having fun while learning - it is informal and very important in the hybrid world; its democratising power offers companies leverage to surface diverse perspectives and facilitate bottom-up communication.The choice of guests and hosts on internal podcasts must be considered –successfully navigating the politics of internal podcasting must focus on the ultimate goal, e.g. personalise the C-suite or explain a policy.The human attention span has changed dramatically, and a corporate podcast could replace other forms of communication, being used for short-form content as snippets for inclusion in a video, for instance.AI will not replace humans enjoying each other's...

From measles outbreaks in South Carolina schools

In this episode of Above the Sides, we sit down with Brent Kakesako, Executive Director of the Hawaiʻi Alliance for Community-Based Economic Development (HACBED). Brent shares stories from his upbringing in Honolulu, Hawai'i and reflects on the experiences that shaped his path into community-based economic development. We explore HACBED's approach to development rooted in active listening, facilitation, and uplifting community voice. The conversation also touches on aloha in action and Brent's connection to Pono Shim and the integration of the aloha values into his day-to-day life. We hope you find this conversation to be a thoughtful look at how values, relationships, and place-based work can shape a more caring and connected future for Hawaii. Learn more about HACBED at: https://hacbed.org/Episode Highlights00:52 Brent's Background 01:57 HACBED's Mission and Approach02:40 Programs and Community Impact07:36 The Power of Active Listening10:29 Brent's Journey into Economic Development17:57 Influence of Mentors and Community Connections20:07 Aloha in Action and Personal Reflections25:40 Navigating Parenting25:51 Understanding Oluolu 26:40 Incorporating Aloha in Daily Life27:09 Honoring Mentors and Community Values27:39 Economic Development Grounded in Values27:59 Hopes for Hawaii's Economy28:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Community Work32:34 Institutional Commitment to Community37:44 What is Enough? Workplace Culture and Wellbeing - 4 Day, 32 Hour Work Weeks45:33 Reflections on Aloha and Community Engagement Welcome to the Above the Sides podcast! Join us on our journey to uncover what it means to think, act, and live aloha. The inspiration for this podcast is the late Pono Shim, former President and CEO of the Oʻahu Economic Development Board. His stories capture the essence of what it means to live aloha. He made it known that aloha is a lifestyle. It is not a solution to problems, a marketing brand or to be used as an advantage over anyone else. Aloha is to be honored and practiced.The name of this podcast is in reverence of Hawaiʻi's Queen Liliʻuokalani, who wrote: "To gain the kingdom of heaven is to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, and to know the unknowable – that is Aloha. All things in this world are two; in heaven there is but One.” Through these episodes, we seek to find that singular perspective, the one that is "above the sides" as we strive for universal peace.We welcome you to pause with us as we share the stories and voices of Hawai'i business leaders, educators and community members who have chosen to be lifelong students of aloha. Mahalo nui loa for listening.

Recent changes to the Cape Town Minstrel Festival, or the Klopse, have sparked concern over the future of this historic, community-rooted celebration. From ticketed entry to the rerouting of the iconic Road March and commercial sponsorship, many fear these moves threaten the festival’s heritage and local livelihoods. Lester Kiewit speaks to Cape Town Minstrel Carnival Association chairperson Sedick Soeker about why these changes are being challenged and what’s at stake for the communities that brought the Klopse to life. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Eccles is the NPR Illinois Morning Edition anchor and host. She also produces the First Listen daily podcast and publshes the NPR Illinois Daily newsletter. Michelle is heavily involved in the Springfield community. She shares more in this Community Voices discussion.

Today, Clancy speaks with Dr. Renee Fillette, Executive Director of Dutchess Outreach and a longtime leader in food security work across New York's Hudson Valley. You won't want to miss their conversation about the hidden power dynamics in food distribution, what the 2025 SNAP crisis revealed, and why local, community-led systems are the only real path to dignity and lasting change.

Clarence Ford spoke to Fine art photographer Ajay Lalu about his Kaapse Klopse memories in his debut book titled A Mountain Divides. Views and News with Clarence Ford is the mid-morning show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour long programme shares and reflects a broad array of perspectives. It is inspirational, passionate and positive. Host Clarence Ford’s gentle curiosity and dapper demeanour leave listeners feeling motivated and empowered. Known for his love of jazz and golf, Clarrie covers a range of themes including relationships, heritage and philosophy. Popular segments include Barbs’ Wire at 9:30am (Mon-Thurs) and The Naked Scientist at 9:30 on Fridays. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Views & News with Clarence Ford Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 09:00 and 12:00 (SA Time) to Views and News with Clarence Ford broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/erjiQj2 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BdpaXRn Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grid expansion is a challenge. On this, almost everyone can agree. But what will it take to expand electric grid capacity and what barriers need to be broken to advance transmission siting and permitting?On this episode of Alternative Power Plays Christina Hayes, Executive Director at Americans for a Clean Energy Grid (ACEG) and Cici Vu, Director of Energy and Climate Equity at DNV Energy Insights USA, join hosts Alan Seltzer and John Povilaitis for a conversation on ACEG's Report addressing the important issue of public acceptance of new electric infrastructure projects.ACEG is a non-profit public interest advocacy coalition focused on the need to expand, integrate and modernize the North American high-voltage electric grid. Christina has 20 years of experience as a regulatory energy attorney, including a decade at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. She previously served as Vice President for Federal Regulatory Affairs at Berkshire Hathaway Energy. At ACEG, Christina has been a leading advocate for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or FERC's landmark rule reforming regional transmission planning, Order No. 1920.Cici works to design strategies that address complex environmental and social challenges, with an emphasis on infrastructure, policy, and community-centered planning. She is a co-author of a report came out in January of this year and is called “The PACE of Trust: A Framework by Community Voices for Advancing Transmission.”To learn more about ACEG, visit: https://www.cleanenergygrid.org/To learn more about Christina Hayes, visit: https://cleanenergygrid.org/team/christina-hayes/To learn more about Cici Vu, visit: https://www.iesna.com/speaker/cici-vu/To learn more about Alan Seltzer, visit: https://www.bipc.com/alan-seltzerTo learn more about John Povilaitis, visit: ⁠https://www.bipc.com/john-povilaitis

Local author Luke McQuillan sits down with Community Voices to discuss his recent novel, "Love in the Light." This is Luke's first published novel. In addition to writing the book, Luke has also created an entire musical for the reader to enjoy as they move through each chapter.

Jonathan Reyman joins Community Voices to discuss his new book Pueblo Bonita and Chaco Canyon Revisited, his time at the Illinois State Museum, and his love of anthropology and archeology.

Kim Villanueva joins Community Voices to discuss her long history of feminist activism with the National Organization for Women. She also speaks about the ways that her experiences in Springfield helped prepare her to lead a national organization. Kim also discusses why it matters and how you should get involved in causes and organizations you believe in.

Ladd Mitchell introduced himself to the Community Voices audience to share his first novel, Theory Markspurn. After running a label and playing in California, he's returned home to launch his authorhood with a story of a high performing athlete and how the pressure is fracturing her health.

Disclaimer: The term woman is frequently used in this episode and Kanwal's book Taking Care of You, to refer to the target audience, although the material discussed applies to anyone with a uterus, cervix, or vagina. We recognize that not all people with these body parts identify as a woman and that not all people who identify as a woman have these body partsKanwal Haq is dedicated to improving health and care for women across the world. With 17+ years of experience working in various healthcare roles and spaces, Kanwal brings dedication, creativity, and humility to keep learning and moving forward. Kanwal founded TCY Women to build better tools, resources, and systems of care to support women's health, across the lifespan. Kanwal completed her B.S. in biology from the University of Missouri, her M.S. in medical anthropology from Boston University, and is working on her PhD in public health at UTHealth. Kanwal is the co-author of “Taking Care of You: The Empowered Woman's Guide to Better Health (Mayo Clinic Press 2022). Kanwal's rural midwestern roots cultivated her passion to make health education and care both accessible and appropriate for every woman.When we look at the research, a clear pattern emerges — women and gender diverse people are too often dismissed, undertreated, and left behind by our healthcare system. The 2024 KFF Women's Health Survey found that one in three women reported being ignored or disbelieved by a healthcare provider, and data from the PNAS (2024) study showed that clinicians consistently rated women's pain as less severe than men's for the same symptoms. Together, these studies tell a sobering truth — gender bias is not anecdotal, it's structural. 

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Held announced his retirement from professional swimming in August. The Springfield native earned both of his gold medals as part of the U.S. Men's 4×100 Freestyle Relay teams in 2016 and 2024.Held joins Community Voices to reflect on his swimming career, share his ongoing ties to his hometown of Springfield, and talk about the importance of supporting young athletes. He also discusses his career transition to a role at Goldman Sachs, and how swimming will continue to play a role in his life beyond competition.

In this enlightening episode of the Book Faire Podcast, we dive into the world of children's literature with author and illustrator Christy Mandin. Host Anthony explores the creation of 'Millie Fleur Saves the Night,' a unique YA literature work that embraces themes of darkness and ecological awareness, particularly addressing the issue of light pollution. Christy discusses the challenges of illustrating such themes and the critical role her protagonist, Millie Fleur, plays as a disruptor in modern children's literature. They also delve into pressing topics such as recent book bans in libraries, highlighting the importance of literature in fostering knowledge empowerment and community change among young readers. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how children's and YA literature are evolving to tackle complex social and environmental issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:23 Exploring the Moon Garden04:12 Artistic Challenges in Nighttime Illustration10:22 Navigating Editorial Feedback14:14 Personifying the Dark19:14 Millie Fleur's Mission to Save the Night21:58 The Ecological Message Behind the Story24:25 Connecting with the Inner Child36:26 Texas School Libraries Under Scrutiny39:57 Controversies Surrounding Mobile Library Services42:42 Community Voices on Children's LiteratureKeywordsChristy Mandin, Millie Fleur, children's literature, book bans, library policies, ecological themes, storytelling, darkness, light, disruption

Nathan Peak, chef at The Foundry Kitchen inside of Anvil and Forge Brewing and Distilling, talks to Community Voices about his passion for making memorable food. He discusses what brought about his passion for cooking, and how his creativity has evolved over his years in the kitchen. Nathan also speaks about what is next on his culinary journey.

ArRell Bradly is the CEO of ArRell Accessories and is 10 years old. Her mom joins Community Voices for a discussion of business and why it's never too soon to start learning.

The new Mid-Illinois Communications Association is hosting the Mid-Illinois AI for Communicators Workshop Oct. 23 at the UIS Student Union. MICA joined Community Voices to preview the conference and explain how AI is a tool if you learn it.

Jessica Baumberger and Dr. Neetu Singh joins Community Voices to update the use of AI in higher education and why learning it is advantageous.

Ross returns to Community Voices to discuss the lessons he's learned three years into his Beardstown based floral show, Rosebud and Co. He also discusses the impact of recent economic tariffs have had on his business and why it is important to use small floral shops for your special occasions.

Bea Bonner does her exit interview on Community Voices with Sean Crawford and Randy Eccles after eight years at NPR Illinois.

 Industrial Water Week 2025: Careers Friday brings the celebration back to first principles—mentors, disciplined training, and field diagnostics that go beyond the screen. Trace reflects on the people who invested in his craft, recognizes guest contributors across the week, and issues a practical challenge to invest in one new professional before the day ends.   Foundations that Compound A candid mentorship story anchors today's episode. Trace recalls how early-career intimidation turned into decades of teaching fundamentals and math at AWT—proof that asking better questions grows better practitioners. Careers Friday becomes a prompt to text the person who built your foundation—and to be that person for someone else.  Fieldcraft Over Flash: A Detective H2O Lesson  The Detective H2O case distills high-value diagnostics for cooling systems: TTPC biocide can mask PTSA and fool controllers into overfeeding inhibitor; missing blowdown lockout during biocide feed wastes product; and stabilized bromine can become over-stabilized in long-HTI systems—driving ORP spikes, corrosion risk, and poor microbial control. Technology is essential, but interpretation is the craft.  Community Voices and a Career Pledge  Careers Friday features greetings from industry professionals and closes with Water You Know, a reminder that water often carries purchased energy (heat, cooling, pressure, flow, pre-treatment) that leaders must account for. The day ends with a clear ask: celebrate your mentors, share your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O, and pledge to help one newcomer discover industrial water treatment.  Durable careers are built on shared knowledge, thoughtful diagnostics, and intentional mentorship. Use today to do all three.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:20 — Opening: Industrial Water Week recap (Pretreatment, Boiler, Cooling, Wastewater) leading into Careers Friday. 03:15 — Community recognition: Scaling Up Nation “20,000+ members” and daily celebration via #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 05:20 — Careers Friday actions: take photos with equipment, mentors, or customers; share to celebrate the craft. 05:29 — Team traditions: the Industrial Water Week cake (including the infamous “water cake” anecdote). 09:16 — Mentorship story: meeting Bruce Ketrick Sr. and Jay Farmery; intimidation becomes investment. 13:12 — Writing the Fundamentals program with Mark Lewis to build durable entry-level foundations. 14:18 — Personal note: when Trace's father passed, how Bruce showed up—mentorship beyond the classroom. 16:15 — Careers greetings begin (Lee Bainbrigge, SMS Environmental): be open-minded, keep learning, focus on customer assurance. 18:07 — Episode reference: Lee's prior appearance (Ep. 370) for Legionella perspectives. 18:21 — Careers greeting (Kalpna Solanki): environmental operator roles as purposeful, global, and essential. 21:39 — Detective H2O — The Case of Knowing It All begins. 38:21 — CWT pathway: free prep resource and 100-question practice exam walkthrough . 42:46 — Water You Know with James McDonald 44:38 — Gratitude for James McDonald's ongoing community impact. 45:04 — Careers Friday challenge: thank your mentors; post your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 46:15 — Final pledge: help one person discover industrial water treatment this week.    Connect with Mike Taraszki  Phone: 510.368.4549  Email: michael.taraszki@wsp.com  Website: www.wsp.com  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeltaraszki/  linkedin.com/company/wsp/    Connect with Kalpna Solanki  Phone: 778.688.9196  Email: kalpnasolanki1980@gmail.com Water Environment Federation (WEF)  LinkedIn: in/kalpnasolanki    Connect with Lee Bainbrigge  Email: l.bainbrigge@sms-environmental.co.uk  Website: https://sms-environmental.co.uk/  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lbainbrigge/  linkedin.com/company/sms-environmental-ltd/    Connect with James Courtney Phone: +1 443 878 2407 Email: james@csctech2o.com Website: https://www.csctech2o.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-courtney-cwt-leed-ap-379a6877/    Connect with Laith Charles   Phone: 941-301-1309   Email: laith@ewatermark.net   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMuigehZdcquaY14QtGm    Connect with Mark Lewis  Phone: 704.322.5406 Email: MLewis@SELaboratories.com Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-lewis-01a3b56    Connect with James McDonald   Email: james51471@gmail.com Website: chemaqua.com Industrialwaterweek.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcdonald-pe/     Links Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  Industrial Water Week  Water Cake Recipe  031 The One with Mark Lewis  034 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT  062 The One with the Pulsafeeder Guy  112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis  141 The One About Neglected Accounts  149 The One About Some of the Lesser-Used Technologies  224 The One About The Internet Of Things (IoT) Augmented Industrial Water Treatment  355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality  362 Navigating 97-005: Insights and Impacts on Potable Water  370 Unlocking Legionella Solutions: Perspectives on Regulations and Best Practices  394 Visibility and Value: Enhancing Sustainability in Water Treatment  404 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 1 – Essential Strategies  406 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 2 – Essential Strategies    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What forms of purchased energy may be present in water?       

Community Voices contributor Craig McFarland talks with cast members Olivia Garrett and Jackson Thornton along with directors Nicole and John Sivak about the musical created from the film coming to the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

At the Sea World Diwali event, community leaders from across Queensland shared their reflections on the significance of celebrating Diwali in Australia, how it compares to traditions in India, and what the festival means in the context of current national debate on migration. Rav Kaur, Pushpinder Oberoi and Seema Chauhan's insights offer a glimpse into the evolving cultural landscape and the role of festivals in fostering inclusion and understanding.

Elnora Brooks and Calia Cole join Community Voices to share the work of R&B Live Ladies Edition and to elevate R&B in the central Illinois music scene.

In Episode 7 of Voices of Sevathon, we speak with Pramod Karuthedathumana from Pallium India-USA. What started as a personal journey of discovery turned into a mission to support palliative care through awareness and fundraising. In this conversation, Pramod shares how Pallium India is building bridges of compassion and why the ICC Sevathon has become a powerful platform to amplify their cause.Join host Fiza Najeeb as we explore how community, purpose, and collective action come together at Sevathon to create lasting impact.Host: Fiza NajeebGuest: Pramod K, Representative - pallium India USA#TALRadioenglish #VoicesOfSevathon #Sevathon2025 #PalliumIndia #CommunityOfCare #ICCSanFrancisco #SevathonStories #BuildingCommunity #NonprofitVoices #FundraisingForGood #PalliativeCareAwareness

Welcome to this week's Blonde Intelligence, I am your host Ms. Roni and I always seek to give you exquisite cranial repertoire. What happens when commercial interests collide with cultural authenticity? The recent Drake-Kendrick Lamar rap beef and Young Thug's leaked jail calls have sparked crucial conversations about hip-hop's soul as the genre marks its 50th anniversary.Diving deep into this cultural moment, we explore how Kendrick's pointed lyrics in "The Heart Part 4" serve as a critical response to perceived inauthenticity in contemporary hip-hop. When Mos Def famously dismissed Drake's music as "Target shopping music," he highlighted the growing tension between commercial success and cultural integrity. Meanwhile, Young Thug's controversial jail call comments reveal troubling dynamics where personal conflicts overshadow the artistry hip-hop was built upon.Hip-hop emerged from 1970s Bronx as more than music—it was a powerful voice for marginalized communities facing social injustice and economic disparity. True hip-hop carries profound responsibilities: community upliftment, youth engagement, authentic representation, and social activism. As the genre evolves, with hip-hop elements likely appearing in virtually all music by 2025, artists must navigate their responsibilities carefully, balancing innovation with respect for the culture's foundational values.This episode challenges both artists and listeners to consider what it means to honor hip-hop's legacy while embracing its evolution. Are we preserving the authentic voice that made hip-hop revolutionary, or sacrificing cultural integrity for commercial appeal? The conversation isn't just about music—it's about cultural preservation, community responsibility, and the power of authentic expression.Subscribe on YouTube, follow on social media, or listen on all major podcast platforms to join the conversation about hip-hop's past, present, and future. The show is returning to its original name, "Blonde Intelligence"—same insightful content with the original branding you've come to know.Support the show

We speak with actor and activist Casey Adler, John Parker, co-founder of the Harriet Tubman Center, and Lulu Hammond, co-founder of SoCal Uprising. Together, they are organizing Labor 4 Palestine: An Arms Embargo Rally and Teach-In Series, happening Saturday, September 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Downtown Los Angeles City Hall. The event will bring together workers, activists, and community members to demand an end to U.S. support for the war on Gaza. Featured speakers include Chris Smalls, the Amazon Labor Union president and nationally recognized organizer, and Lily Greenberg Call, the first Jewish Biden administration official to resign in protest over Gaza — along with many more voices for justice. Find more information here https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/event/836392/ — Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post Labor 4 Palestine Rally & Teach-In: Activists, Union Leaders, and Community Voices Gather in Los Angeles, Sept. 6 appeared first on KPFA.

Allison Lacher is the Director of the UIS Visual Arts Gallery and a practicing visual artist whose work blends metallic surfaces, vibrant colors and domestic objects to create emotionally charged spaces. She spoke to Community Voices about her journey to Springfield, her recent curator-in-residence position in Pittsburgh and what's in store for the UIS Visual Arts Gallery this fall. Lacher also discussed her current exhibition at the Illinois State Museum, her work with STNDRD Exhibitions and her hopes for the future of Springfield's arts community.

Drs. Teena and Ashish John are pediatricians based in Springfield. They spoke with Community Voices about how they met, what inspired them to pursue careers in pediatrics, and how Disney influences the compassionate care they provide to their patients. The conversation also offers a glimpse into Dr. Ashish John's musical side, including his involvement in a band.

Community Voices talks with former NPR Illinois reporter Hannah Meisel.

From heartfelt reflections to hilarious heat-induced moments, Vanessa's send-off was equal parts emotional and entertaining.

Prairie Insulation is celebrating 20 years of operation. Fiore Belmonte and Jeremy Nihiser spoke to Community Voices about the business's growth. They shared how Prairie Insulation got its start in Springfield, how insulation technology has evolved and what it means to take a people-first approach in the trades.

Greg Peterson is a local public defender with a knack for trivia. He has been a contestant on "Teen Jeopardy," "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," and "The Chase." Greg spoke with Community Voices about the behind-the-scenes world of game shows, the strategies he used to compete, and why he encourages everyone to apply. He also shared his thoughts on former "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek and legendary game show contestant James Holzhauer.

Sangamon County ROSC is a group that connects people with the resources they need to address substance use challenges and build a foundation for lasting recovery. They work to identify and reduce barriers and gaps for individuals and families, ensuring they have the support and resources necessary for success. Whitney Devine, Sangamon County ROSC Program Manager, and Austin Dambacher, Sangamon ROSC Coordinator, spoke with Community Voices about community support, the stigma people in recovery face, and their 2025 Community Survey Findings & Strategic Plan. Find more about Sangamon County ROSC here.

Jean Follin is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a long-time volunteer at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. In fact, the volunteer award at the Hoogland Center is named in her honor. She spoke to Community Voices about her love of music and theatre, and her inspiration to help others through counseling. She also reflected on her time with the Sound Celebration Chorus, a women's acapella chorus, and gave a preview of what to expect at the chorus' upcoming concert on Sept. 13.

Jaden Saunders is a local tap dancer who's been making a name for himself through his many performances in Springfield. His mother, Tiffani Saunders, is a sociologist and former professor at the University of Illinois Springfield. In this Community Voices interview we learn how Tiffani enrolled Jaden in tap at a young age as an outlet for his rambunctious energy. We also hear Jaden's plans for the future, and we discuss the roots of tap dancing and the barriers to entry for young people.

Park-N-Chill is a small snack and ice cream shop located in Washington Park, run by the Klyczek family. Steve Klyczek spoke with Community Voices about how they started the business, the variety of offerings they provide, and the most rewarding aspects of being part of the community. Click here to learn more.

Lauren Williams is a policy analyst, baker, and she recently appeared as Maria in Springfield Theatre Centre's production of “The Sound of Music.” She spoke to Community Voices about her passion for public service, and her adventures singing with the Springfield Choral Society, including a memorable Sound of Music tour in Austria.

Community Voices addresses the recent cuts to CPB funding.

In this multi-grantee episode, Hawaiʻi Rising speaks with three organizations uplifting their communities through filmmaking. First, we speak with Pua Case from Mauna Kea Education & Awareness and filmmaker Jalena Keane-Lee about their feature-length documentary Standing Above the Clouds, which premiered last year. Building on an earlier short film with the same name released in 2020, the feature-length documentary follows three families of Native Hawaiian mother-daughter activists standing to protect sacred Mauna Kea from the construction of the massive Thirty Meter Telescope. Next, we revisit our 2022 conversation with Vera Zambonelli, the founder of Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking. Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking is a longtime HPF grantee partner committed to advancing gender equity in filmmaking and advocating for women to tell their stories through film with an intersectional lens. HWF's Reel Camps are filmmaking camps for girls and femme-identifying youth. Finally, we turn to the important behind-the-scenes work of archiving film footage with the initiative Hoʻomau Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina. In this conversation recorded in 2023, we speak with Aunty Joan Lander of Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina and Emma Broderick from Puʻuhonua Society about this effort to catalog and archive over 6000 video tapes of footage shot by documentary organization Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina. To learn more about these hui, listen to our full episodes with them: 23. Mauna Kea Education and Awareness: Standing Every Day for the Mauna 32. Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking: Getting Reel about Social Change 48. Mauna Kea Education and Awareness: A Pillar for the Lāhui 56. Puʻuhonua Society: Hoʻomau Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina   Tags: Hawaiʻi, Hawai'i, Hawaii

Today's episode we're back to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county's agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it's the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today's episode, we'll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let's explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: vincentsy@northampton.k12.nc.us, chemdeb@embarqmail.com, aw6kwas@gmail.com Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

Family, this is your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn, and this is Queer News — your favorite weekly news pod where race & sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. This week, we're wrapping up Pride month with headlines you need to know: the Supreme Court keeps lifesaving HIV prevention free under the Affordable Care Act, Chicago is officially named the #1 safest travel destination for LGBTQ folks, and Netflix drops a powerful new documentary honoring ballroom legend Venus Xtravaganza. From legal wins to cultural milestones, let's get into it. Want to support this podcast?

Today's episode takes us to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county's agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it's the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today's episode, we'll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let's explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: vincentsy@northampton.k12.nc.us, chemdeb@embarqmail.com, aw6kwas@gmail.com Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

NOTE: An early version of this audio has an error around 4:50. If you hear that error, it's likely because your podcast player downloaded the first version. Please re-download the episode to hear the correct version! And forgive us, as we're merely human beans