Bridging Philly

Terrill Haigler might be better known in Philadelphia as Ya Fav Trashman. The former sanitation worker has built a reputation and an online as an advocate for sanitation workers and cleaner streets. He's written a children’s book that teaches kids about clean communities. And now he's running for Philadelphia City Council. Racquel Williams sits down with Haigler to talk about why he's running and his big ideas for Philadelphia. Our Philly Rising Changemaker is Crystal Jackson, the founder of the Perfectly Flawless Foundation, a Philadelphia nonprofit that gives clothes to people in transition. Shara Dae Howard sits down with Jackson to talk about her story, what the Perfectly Flawless Foundation does, and the message she wants to get out. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The City of Philadelphia is working with the American Cancer Society to remind everyone to get screened for cancer. Today on Bridging Philly, we talk with some doctors from ACS about the importance of early detection. Dr. Carmen Guerra is a professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Medicine. Dr. Guerra talks with Racquel Williams about cancer screenings, the disparities in cancer screenings, and the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on cancer screenings and cancer outcomes. We also talk with Dr. Arnold M. Baskies, a surgeon, past chairman of the National Board of Directors of the American Cancer Society, and chair of the Philadelphia Region for the American Cancer Society, to ask some questions about what happens when surgery is needed after a breast cancer diagnosis. Shara Dae Howard talks with Casandra Gunkel and Gloria Davis from the Sankofa Artisans Guild about a traveling exhibit honoring Harriet Tubman's legacy, currently in Bucks County. The Philly Rising Changemaker of the week is Abdellah Abdul-Qawi, who is working to tackle food insecurity in Philadelphia and Camden as director of Muslims Serve, an organization that prepares and serves free meals to those in need. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I'm Listening is a Bridging Philly special presentation about suicide prevention and the importance of talking about mental health. In this special edition of the show, we talk about the importance of checking in on your mental health and how to get support when you need it, how kids are doing in these times of change and uncertainty, the unique struggles faced by people in marginalized communities, and the devastating impact of gun violence. KYW's Racquel Williams speaks with Dr. Ann Rosen Spector, a clinical psychologist in Philadelphia, about the state of our mental health, why there's stigma around talking about it, when to know you need help, and how to find it. KYW's Mike DeNardo speaks with Samantha Anthony, a clinician at the Uplift Center for Grieving Children in Philadelphia, about how grief and trauma affect children. KYW's Shara Dae howard speaks with Rashida Henry, the founder of mental health and counseling company Knows No Face, about mental health in marginalized communities. KYW's Kristen Johanson speaks with Melany Nelson, director of the Philadelphia DAO's CARES Unit, about the impact of gun violence, traumatic stress and unresolved trauma, PTSD, and the very long road to healing for families impacted by gun violence. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Bridging Philly, Sistahs in Transformation speak on their upcoming Women's Empowerment Conference happening at the end of September. Sistahs in Transformation is a non-profit that was founded amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We hear how three local women came together to make a safe space for Black and Brown women to be empowered by taking control of their mental, physical, and financial health, while supporting others along the journey. Our Newsmaker of the Week highlights Raheem Bell. Bell was a victim of a carjacking attempt when he got shot at close range earlier this year. Now, the public school teacher is inspired to share his experience while healing through community give-back events. This week’s Philly Rising Changemaker started out by spending a day feeding the homeless in Kensington. That grew into serving the community every day by helping those recovering from addiction. As National Recovery Month begins, we talk with Darnell Hinton , President and CEO of Teach One Feed One, which helps individuals get through every stage of recovery. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Bridging Philly, we highlight Healthy Aging Month, which was designed to focus on the positive aspects of aging. We sit down with the President and CEO of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Najja Orr. He shares the efforts the organization is doing to help the local elder community, such as health and nutrition job training and advocating for elders when it comes to financial abuse and legal services. We then hear from former Marketing Director of KYW, Kyle Ruffin on her journey of leaving her career and becoming her mother’s sole caregiver. Kyle’s mother suffered from 3 strokes, and now Kyle has a book sharing her experience as a caregiver. Our Philly Rising Changemaker is working his way into markets and grocery stores after teaming up with Drexel’s Good Food Accelerator Program. Arthur Browne, Chef and Owner of Authentic Cuisine, shares his desire to bring authentic West African food products into homes. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is officially over for many students and the Philadelphia School District is still trying to fill teacher vacancies. This episode, we sit down with the president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, Jerry T. Jordan, to speak on the national teacher shortage and efforts in retaining school teachers in classrooms. A shortage of teachers is not the only issue Pennsylvania is facing. According to the State Department of Education, there's a plan to increase the number of teachers by 2025 with teacher apprenticeships, easing teacher certification guidelines, and more recruiting. But one Camden, NJ teacher is urging school districts to focus on hiring Black educators. Rann Miller of Camden Academy Charter High School speaks on the importance of having more teachers of color in front of the classroom. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly highlights a motivational speaker and transformational life coach and his efforts in helping youth become empowered, boost their confidence, and value their lives. South Philly native Maxwell Brown shares his story of years in incarceration and his teenage decisions to demonstrate how thinking controls actions, behaviors, and outcomes through his workshop and programs. The Bridging Philly Newsmaker highlights Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers and their efforts in developing an algorithm to help define differences between ADHD symptoms from other conditions. We speak with Dr. Hakon Hakonarson, the director of the Center for Applied Genomics at CHOP. Dr. Hakonarson believes this new tool will lead to more precise clinical trials and better treatments. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

August is Black Business Month. Black business owners make up 10% of the businesses in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. KYW’s Racquel Williams sits with the president of the African American Chamber of Commerce, Regina Hairston, to talk about the importance of supporting Black Businesses and giving tips on starting a business here in Philadelphia. In honor of this month, we check in with a local business, Dillonades LLC. Dillonades is a mom-and-son duo business started by Tiffany Greene with her 14-year-old son Dillon. Tiffany talks about her challenges when turning a side hustle into a business. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly invited the Philadelphia Parking Authority to get a better understanding of the authority and their mission. KYW’s Racquel Williams sits down with Beth Grossman, Board Chairman, Dennis Weldon, PPA General Counsel and Acting Executive Director, and two Deputy Executive Directors, Clarena Tolson and Corrine O’Connor, to speak on the misconceptions surrounding the authority, some programs PPA has and are starting, and the rise of threats and assaults PPA employers have been going through. The Bridging Philly Newsmaker celebrates two local men working in the Philadelphia community to give young black men a way off the streets and on to a sustainable career path. Lonnie Clover Umar and David Baker are Philly tradesmen with a passion for teaching and mentoring. Both are licensed contractors, electricians, roofers, and plumbers. Through their training programs, they teach life and trade skills that can pave the way for what they hope can be a bright future off the streets. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Animal Shelters across Philadelphia are filling up with pets. Many pet owners are forced to give up their pets, and many can no longer afford vet bills, food, and other pet necessities. This week Bridging Philly invites Philly Paws Executive Director Melissa Levy to discuss the importance of adoption and fostering pets and the things people should consider before adoption. The newsmaker of the week highlights Senator Shariff Street sharing his ongoing efforts in embracing the Philadelphia community through programs focused on food insecurity and gun violence. Our Philly Rising Changemaker honors Philly local Carol Wong and her work in educating and empowering immigrant and Asian-American communities. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ECA’s Heater Hotline team serves numerous calls each week from low-income families who have no hot water. The program plans to assist families with water heater replacements at no cost. This week Bridging Philly speaks with CEO of ECA, Steve Luxton, and Director of Community Programs, Lorraine Horton, on the recent launch of the Philadelphia Water Heater Emergency Fund, along with tips on how your family can start conserving energy and promote a sustainable household. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many students in the Philadelphia School District rely on school meals during the school year. With school being out, kids no longer have access to free lunches. This week Bridging Philly tackles food insecurity in Philadelphia. KYW’s Racquel Williams sits with Community Impact Director Anita Anim of the American Heart Association and Jamese Newsome-Williams, Director of Adult Programs and Community Services of North 10, on their partnership to feed the community in North Philly. KYW’s Shara Dae Howard meets with Program Coordinator Ron Brown at Smith Playground in South Philly. Ron has been a volunteer at the playground and coordinator of programming for seven years, and in that time, he’s become a father figure and mentor to the community. His goal is to keep kids fed and off the streets while helping them. The Philly Rising Changemaker runs the streets and neighborhoods of Philadelphia for Mental Health Awareness and gun violence prevention. KYW’s Antionette Lee speaks with two organizations, Black Men Run and Swagger House Run Club. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade sparked a lot of reactions and protests across the nation. Kimberly Mutcherson, co-dean and law professor at Rutgers Law School joins KYW’s Racquel Williams to talk about the legal implications of what’s next to come and discuss some privacy rights at risk. KYW’s Shara Dae Howard speaks with local Philadelphia doctors as they share challenges and legal risks after Roe’s overturning, from determining provider care when the life of a mother is at risk to medical treatments. The Philly Rising Changemaker is Philadelphia Family Pride, discussing the uptick of high demand from the LGBTQ+ families seeking counsel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Through justice work, advocacy, non-profits, and weekly events, the Philadelphia LGBTQ Community is keeping Pride afloat. This week on Bridging Philly, KYW’s Racquel Williams, Shara Dae Howard and Antionette Lee first sit down with State Representative for the 181st District and is the first openly LGBTQ person of color elected to the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, and co-facilitator a social support group at the William Way LGBT Center called Transway to speak on policies still needed to be placed to protect members of the LGBTQIA+ Community. The ladies also sit with the Executive Director of William Way LGBT Community Center, Chris Bartlett, and his mission to preserve and tell the stories and memories of those who lost their lives through a crisis such as the aids epidemic, gun violence, and Covid-19. He also shares stories of historical events that happened here in Philadelphia. Lastly, KYW’s Shara Dae Howard, speaks with Philly Drag Legend, Brenda J. Lamour, who began her drag career more than three decades ago. Lamour joins in to tell her story and speak on her countless work and fellowship mentoring youth in the LGBTQ community. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Bridging Philly we honor the history of Juneteenth. We invite Tamara Staley, President of The Philadelphia Juneteenth Family Inc, and Cornelia Swinson, Executive Director of The Johnson House as they both give us a little history lesson on the federal holiday. Our Newsmaker of the week is Nikki Powerhouse, an LGBTQ community Philly poet and author of color who advocates for POC through her plays. Hear about her recent break out play I AM. Our Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Bilal Qaayum as he speaks on his work in the community honoring Father's Day and Juneteenth. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly invites Melany Nelson to highlight and share her new position in the DA’s Office as the director of the Philadelphia CARES Unit, providing immediate crisis response to families impacted by homicide deaths throughout the city of Philadelphia. Our Newsmaker of the week is Duiji Mshinda, founder of Vinyl Tap 215, a DJ production company that is at the forefront of Night Life and major events in the City with a focus on making the industry a safe space for marginalized community members such as POC, LGBTQ and women DJs. The Philly Rising Changemaker recently started last March, as a way to create queer community and learn and explore some of Philly’s feathered friends, hear from Queer Birding. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly invites Pastor G. Lamar Stewart to speak on the rise of gun violence in Philadelphia and how his new initiative, Corners to Connection, works in collaboration with local Philly Pastors and their efforts to speak to the community in most crime-ridden neighborhoods. This month we are highlighting Philly Pride. Philly's PHL Pride March and Festival is part of PHL Pride 50. Our Newsmaker of the week highlights Ashley Coleman, who is one of the several organizers of this year's Pride events shares what this month has in store. The Philly Rising Changemaker is Mentor Leaders Produce Mentor Leaders, a local nonprofit working to develop young boys across the city into prosperous men. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the uncertainty of Covid-19, Inflation, baby formula shortage, and the recent tragedies of mass shootings, the nation may feel anxiety, angry, hopeless, powerless, or even desensitized. Bridging Philly held a group discussion this week with local psychologist Dr. Valerie Braunstein of Philly Psychology, LLC. Dr. Braunstein gives tips on coping with loss and grievance and how to talk to your kids about the recent events. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Philadelphia Prisons have been at the forefront of the news for the past couple of months. KYW’s Racquel Williams sits with the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Prison Society on their investigation of allegations towards Philadelphia Prisons and how the crisis continues to brew. You will hear from Philadelphia Prison Commissioner Blanche Carney as she addresses those allegations and highlights how the pandemic impacted their operations and staff shortages. The Newsmaker of the week pays tribute to our community moms raising children in the midst of the violence nationally and locally. KYW’s Shara Dae Howard speaks with North Philly mother Yolanda Sydnor on her efforts in keeping her 3 sons out of trouble and her family on track from the struggle. Our Philly Rising Changemaker is Myon Butler, whom the Philadelphia School District recently highlighted as the Student of the Month. Earlier this year Butler found himself at the Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Center, and he's now on his journey to finish school and become the first in his family to graduate college. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Childcare providers, mothers, and educators rallied at City Hall for National Day Without Child Care on Monday in an effort to raise awareness of low pay. KYW's Racquel Williams was at this rally speaking to many providers on the issue most childcare providers are facing today. Diane Barber, Executive Director of Pennsylvania Child Care Association joined Bridging Philly to speak on solutions and the importance of Early Childhood Learning. The Newsmaker of the week is Jen Devor, President & Co-founder of Better Civics, a nonpartisan civic engagement non-profit, speaks on their released second election toolkit which focuses on educating and empowering local citizens when they vote in the May primary. Our Philly Rising Changemaker is Delaware County Judge Keith Williams II. Judge Williams II is helping to inspire and mentor young boys in the area through an organization called Men on a Mission. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend we are celebrating Mother’s Day with KYW’s Racquel Williams, Michelle Durham, Carol Mackenzie, and Denise Nakano as they remember their mothers and discuss the ups and downs of motherhood. Family therapist Ann Rosen Spector LCW also joins the discussion in speaking on ways to overcome hardships in parenting and work-life balance. Our newsmaker of the week pays tribute to a local Philly woman with 3 sons from the heart of North Philly. Yolanda Sydnor shares her efforts in keeping her sons out of trouble and keeping her family on track through the struggle. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and since the pandemic, many people have been keeping stock of what's important in their life. This week Bridging Philly sits with motivational speaker and life coach Joy Morgan of Joy Morgan Motivates as she gives advice and insight on moving past pandemic challenges. Our Newsmaker of the week highlights Dr. Esther Castillo and her efforts in launching the Support the Chinese Immigrant Families Wellness Initiative and the continuance of bridging the gap between marginalized communities through education. The Philly Rising Changemaker is a West Philly native, writer, and activist Lorene Cary. Cary uses her craft to preserve stories, especially Black legacies for the next generations. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly highlights a non-profit working to provide resources and support necessary to enable residents to live healthy, prosperous lives in a self-sustaining community. Hearts of Camden was originally founded by 1984 by Monseigneur Michael J. Doyle, of the Sacred Heart Church, and located in the Waterfront South neighborhood of Camden City. The community based organization is putting their residents first in creating quality housing, safe spaces, arts and culture education. Heart of Camden's Board President, Ben Hill and Executive Director, Carlos Morales speak on the importance of the non profit mission, need of more volunteers and future upcoming events. The Newsmaker of the Week has be growing her food pantry into a community center in Upper Darby feeding hundreds of families suffering with food insecurity since the pandemic started. Shara Dae Howard speaks with Desiree Lamar Murphy, founder of Murphy’s Giving Market on how she got started and how it's going post pandemic. Our Philly Rising Changemaker is Delaware County Judge Keith Williams II. Judge Williams II is helping to inspire and mentor young boys in the area through an organization called Men on a Mission. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly highlights a local non-profit, Tri-State Canine Response Team, and their paws on the ground efforts for those in need. CEO and Founder, Janice Campbell joins KYW's Racquel Williams to speak on the benefits of the human and canine bond, the pieces of training the canines go through, and share some of the services requested from other states who faced crises such as the Boulder, Colorado mass shooting. The Newsmaker of the week brings awareness for Autism Acceptance Month. KYW's Shara Dae Howard sits with KYW's Traffic Anchor Sue Schilling and her daughter Jessica, who is non-verbal, as they discuss misconceptions about autism and how the two are making history together later this month. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Shane Darby of Delaware Co. and her non-profit, Black Mothers in Power, in training more women to be doulas in fighting to end health inequity for Black women's pregnancy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

According to a 2020 report from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health's Maternal Mortality Review Committee, half of the city's 26 pregnancy-related deaths could have been prevented. Between 2013 and 2018, 73% of pregnancy-related deaths in Philadelphia were Black women. This week Bridging Philly held a group discussion Dr. Elana McDonald from Twin Sister Docs on Maternal Equity and the actions needed to prevent Black women and infants from dying during childbirth. The Newsmaker of the week highlights therapist, doula, and CEO of Oshun Family Center, Saleemah McNeil, and her ongoing study with Temple University on how having support from Black doulas, mental health services, and lactation experts can improve heart health outcomes for pregnant Black women and raising awareness of birth trauma amongst Black women. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the first since the Supreme Court’s founding in 1790, a Black woman could sit on the bench. This week on Bridging Philly we highlight Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson and her process into the Supreme Court. Former judge Renee Cardwell Hughes joins in the discussion to give her reaction to judge Ketanji Brown Jackson and discuss the struggle of trying to break glass ceilings. The Newsmaker of the week is Tracey L. Gordon. She’s the Register of Wills for the city but spent much of her career as a community advocate and decided to go this route to affect change within the communities for which she was previously advocating. The Philly Rising Changemaker is a former Temple Graduate and now Crown Act Champion, Adjoa B. Asamoah. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we end Women's History Month, this week's Bridging Philly episode focuses on women working in male dominated industries. We highlight Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw and the work she has done in the city and the solutions the Philadelphia Police Department has for the uptick on gun violence and carjackings in the Philadelphia area. Our Newsmaker of the week is Councilmember Cindy Bass of District 8 and her goal during her term as the Chair of City Council's Committee on Parks, Recreational, and Cultural Affairs of safer community spaces and neighborhoods. The Philly Rising Changemaker introduces Nairobi Colon, a Camden teacher sharing her journey as a nonbinary trailblazer on social media platforms educating those on nonbinary pronouns and reminding students to be who they are. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly focuses on bridging the gap between the Asian and Black communities in Philadelphia. After a series of tragic incidents during the pandemic. Romana Lee-Akiyama, Director, Office of Public Engagement, Jeanette Bavwidinsi, Director, Office of Youth Engagement and Rob Buscher of the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia and Japanese American Citizens League, speak on their efforts in speaking to both communities through their Black and Gold series held by the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement. Our Newsmaker of the week highlights Dr. Esther HioTong Castillo and her efforts in launching the Support the Chinese Immigrant Families Wellness Initiative. Our Philly Rising Changemaker honors Philly local Carol Wong and her work in educating and empowering immigrant and Asian-American communities. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly invited Honorary Consul of Ukraine, Iryna Maur, and President of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Philadelphia Branch, Eugene Luciw to give their perspective on the conflict in Ukraine. Hear how you can connect with the Philadelphia Ukrainian community and help in aiding families in Ukraine. The Newsmaker of the week highlights two volunteers at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center in Jenkintown. Hear their efforts to collect aid and donations. The Philly Rising Changemaker honors Linda Shockley for Women's Month, of the Lawnside Historical Society, and her dedication to preserving and maintaining Black History, such as the historical Peter Mott House in Lawnside. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Black History Month honors the history makers who made a difference in this country and in the community, but what happens when the month is over. This week Bridging Philly speaks with Executive Director of Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, Chad Dion Lassiter, he shares his expertise with civil rights, diversity, and inclusion as well as how to keep the conversation on Black history going. The Newsmaker of the week highlights the Claybourne-Napier family and their efforts to create a movie that depicts a Black fairy tale, 'The Rainbow Prince', inspired by their 10-year-old daughter, Marea. The Claybourne-Napier family did complete the film and showcased it at schools during Black History Month. The Philly Rising Changemaker is honoring Women History Month, this week is a West Philly native, author, educator, and activist, Lorraine Carey. Carey uses her writing and storytelling to connect youth with history and legacies. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly is closing out Black History Month by highlighting Temple University's effort to unravel systemic oppression through advocacy, education, and scholarship. Assistant Professor, Civil Rights Attorney, and now led Director of the Anti-Racism Research Center, Timothy Welbeck, speaks on some of the toughest topics of racism and some solutions the research center is working to change in the community. The Bridging Philly Newsmaker of the week is Gwen Ragsdale, curator of the Lest We Forget Museum of Slavery. Ragsdale speaks on the importance of children learning their history, and hear her family's direct connections with Black Wall Street and the Tulsa Massacre. Our Philly Rising Changemaker highlights two twin doctors making changes in the medical field and the community. TwinSisterDocs, Dr.Delana Wardlaw, and Dr. Elana McDonald on their efforts to serve those in underserved black and brown communities through quality service and education on health, while building a pipeline for diversity in doctors. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly discussed The NAACP annual Convention with Atlantic City NAACP Chapter President Kaleem Shabazz. Shabazz shares how this year's convention is going to focus and cater to the youth, issues within law enforcement, and Black businesses. Our newsmaker of the week is Helen Gym, who joined the Philadelphia City Council in 2016 since then Gym has led a human rights agenda focusing on Philly's youth and as chair of Council's Children and Youth Committee, she has made public schools a priority. Gym speaks about the positive benefits of the new ABC show created by Philly native Quinta B called Abbot Elementary, has in focusing on inner-city school districts and reinforcing teachers in the public schools. The Philly Rising Changemaker honors Linda Shockley, of the Lawnside Historical Society, and her dedication to preserving and maintaining Black History, such as the historical Peter Mott House in Lawnside. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly holds a group discussion focusing on the rich history of the National Panhellenic Council of Philadelphia inviting Visit Philly's chief innovation and global diversity officer, Rachel Ferguson to discuss their Black History Month initiative highlighting prominent members of the Black organizations and some of their favorite places in Philadelphia. The Newsmaker of the week is Melvin Payne, President of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc efforts in keeping the legacy of the men and women, black and white through conversations, education, and scholarships in honor of the airmen. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Dr. Sheena Howard and her new comic "BLAM! Black Lives Always Mattered' which profiles Black leaders in history and will be distributed to Black students throughout Philadelphia. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the National Black HIV/AIDs Awareness Day coming February 7th, this week KYW's Racquel Williams sits with the Health Resource and Services Administrations, Dr. Laura Cheever on their efforts to raise awareness on HIV/ AIDs and the stigma impacting the community of colors. The Newsmaker of the week highlights Self Inc's President and COO, Mike Hinson, Jr. Self Inc, is the largest provider for emergency housing services for the homeless in Philadelphia. Mike Hinson Jr, is also an HIV/AIDS educator and civil rights advocate. Hinson shares his work in keeping marginalized communities at the forefront of priorities for policymakers throughout Philadelphia. The Philly Rising Changemaker caught up with Mykey Cooper, a 16-year-old star in the making, from North Philadelphia with many talents including acting, rapping, entertainer, and named one of the youngest writers for the Jimmy Fallon kid show. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly focuses on Philly's small art organizations relying on relief funds to survive while catering to their communities. The senior vice president at the Esperanza Arts Center, Bill Rhoads, shares how the local North Philly organization is surviving on relief funds while catering to the Hispanic community in the area and his concerns on ongoing funding for other BIPOC- serving organizations like his own. The NewsMaker honors Ann Ishi of the Asian Arts Alliance and her efforts to bridge the black, brown, and Asian communities since taking the position of Executive Director. Ishi also shares the organization's new events for this year's Black History Month. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights the Testimony Project and their effort to encourage individuals to open up and share their life testaments from mental health to drug addictions to help others learn and grow on their paths. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

January is Human Trafficking Awareness month this week. Bridging Philly highlights two local organizations working to combat sex trafficking in Philadelphia and supporting women and children who experienced and overcame sexual exploitation. Alea Cummings, a trauma-focused therapist with the Philadelphia Children's Alliance, shares the warning signs of child victims of trafficking and the services involving trauma control her organizations offer for families in need. You will also hear from Carla Clanagan, the program director of The Well, a community for women recovering from sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and sex trafficking. Clanagan shares the mission of The Well Program and the steps Philadelphia needs to take to prevent human trafficking. Our Newsmaker of the week is Heather LaRocca, head of the New Day's Anti-trafficking Taskforce for the Salvation Army. She works closely with the Philadelphia Police Department & DA's office, offering intensive, comprehensive mobile case management to survivors engaging with them and supporting them through their healing journey. The Philly Rising Changemaker is 21-year-old Tyler Riddick, a local entrepreneur who opened her creative studio in Fishtown to give Philly youth a safe place to create. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly highlights some helping heroes just in time for Martin Luther King Day. After the devastating fire killing 12 people including 8 children in the Fairmount community, one organization sprang into action to help support the families involved in the Fairmount fire. Children First Pa's Executive Director joins Bridging Philly to share both how they raised money and provided services to the families, and their inspiration to carry on the bigger fight for health, equity, and opportunity for every child. Our News Maker highlights Todd Bernstein, founder and director of the Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service which will be held virtually at Girard College January 17th. KYW’s Shara Dae Howard spoke with Bernstein about the significance of the event and the impact it is meant to have on the Philadelphia community. Our Philly Rising Change Maker is Dr. Tawanna Jones-Morrison who is an educator and school psychologist by trade. Her passion for girls' wellness and empowerment led her to start We REIGN, Inc (Rooting, Empowering, Inspiring a Girl's Nation). To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Bridging Philly launched its first episode focusing on managing debt, specifically Student Loans. Last year, U.S. Student Loan Debt totaled 1.6 trillion. The Biden Administration temporarily paused federal student loan payments for another until May 1, 2022. Bridging Philly invites Student Loan Doctor LLC's founder Sonia Lewis, to discuss tips on monthly budgeting and services her company offers to prevent student loan debt, such as affordable repayment plan selections, consolidation, and money management. Our Bridging Philly Newsmaker, Representative Darisha Parker of the 198th Legislative District, shares her efforts encouraging President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to eliminate student loan debt affecting HBCU graduates. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Ant Brown, an anti-violence activist and local rap artist spreading a positive message to Philly Youth through his program, The ABRO Experience. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Out with the old and in with the new! This week Flashpoint ends the year discussing goal setting and the importance of self-awareness. Local clinician and author Deana Davis joins KYW's Racquel Williams, Antionette Lee, and Shara Dae Howard, giving tips on making realistic, attainable goals and healthily coping with failure. Reiki Master, Tarot Mystic, and founder of Rooted Alchemy Co., Eboni La'Che, join the ladies to discuss healing and give a little insight on what to expect in 2022 through intuitive readings. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint brings back Northwest Victim Services Executive Director Melany Nelson and court and community advocate Wendell Louissaint to update us on their victim services and resources since the uptick of gun violence in the city. The Newsmaker this week highlights a Delco native and Temple graduate, Lydia Peterson, who is set to debut her first film “Walking On.” Her film is already being compared to movies like Love and Basketball. She says her mission is to “tell stories we want to see.” The Philly Rising Changemaker of the week presented by Patriot Homecare is the Chocolate Ballerina Company. Their mission is to illustrate the experiences and successes of African American culture through dance that will inspire change. This month, the community-based dance company took the stage performing Philly's first all-black cast performance of ' The Nutcracker....dipped in Chocolate.' To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint invited the Philadelphia Citywide Coalition Project's Co-Founder Charlotte Brown and Dr. Deshawnda Williams to discuss their ongoing prevention and intervention strategies against gun violence through their pop-up event. The Pop-Up Community Resource Center is held weekly from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and plans to provide job application services, Tech and Business opportunities, and community resources. For more information, please email [email protected]. The Flashpoint Newsmaker highlights Lynette Medley and her daughter Nya's efforts in delivering period supply care packages to women and girls across the Delaware Valley. Medley also runs sexuality empowerment nonprofit, No More Secrets, Mind Body Spirit Inc. and this past year opened The Spot, a 2,500 square-feet "menstrual hub" in Germantown, the first of its kind in the nation. The Philly Rising Changemaker is Ryan Harris, founder of "As I Plant This Seeds," created a haven for at-risk youth in Hunting Park, where they could get an education, family values, and mentorship they might otherwise miss out on. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint meets up with the Ertz Family Foundation to hear their latest project initiative with the Grace and Peace Community Fellowship building. Executive Director Lisa Ertz and Program Director Manager Kiersten Ferguson tell us how the House of Hope Project plans to develop and implement critical resources and services to the North Philadelphia community. Our Newsmaker of the week is the founder of Urban Kings & Queens, Inc. Haneef Hill is bringing together communities from across Philadelphia and surrounding areas, and he’s using sports and education to do it. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Shameka Sawyer, an award-winning local filmmaker and founder of 5 Shorts Project whose goal is to create spaces to teach Philly youth who faced hurt by gun violence to own their stories through her organization 5 Shorts Project. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint rides out with Erin Brown, also known as The Concrete Cowgirl, and the Executive Director of Philadelphia Urban Riding Academy, on the meaning of Horsemanship and how today's youth can benefit from equestrian programs. The newsmaker of the week is Danny Kilson, owner of 410 Specialties, deals in BMW automobiles and is one of few men of color in the industry to do so, but his work educating black youth to bridge that gap within the world of luxury automotive technicians is how he's making a name for himself in the Philadelphia area. The Philly Rising Changemaker of the week presented by Patriot Homecare is the Chocolate Ballerina Company. Their mission is to illustrate the experiences and successes of African American culture through dance that will inspire change. This month, the community-based dance company plans to take the stage performing Philly's first all-black cast performance of ' The Nutcracker....dipped in Chocolate.' To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint is recapping the best of our segments from earlier this year. The podcast dives into a deep discussion on the community relationship with and trust in media. Many news outlets' have been criticized for how reporters report on crime, and specifically on gun violence. With local news outlets reporting the 400th homicide this year, we wanted to discuss ways media can improve their reporting on crime while maintaining their mission to serve the public with facts. We hear from a community leader and founder of the Young Chances Foundation, KYW Newsradio's Brand Manager and Program Director, and lastly, Jessica Beard, a trauma surgeon at Temple University Hospital and Director of the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting. The newsmaker of the week is Angela Anderson, a Master’s level Therapist with a background in Child psychology who now works in Philadelphia public schools helping students cope with the pressures of school, home, and peers. The Philly Rising Changemaker of the week presented by Patriot Homecare is Crystal Evans, founder of Money Talks, a local non-profit dedicated to promoting urban issues, hosting financial discussions, provide resources and personal finance tips to Philadelphia youth. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint brings back Northwest Victim Services Executive Director Melany Nelson and court and community advocate Wendell Louissaint to update us on their victim services and resources since the uptick of gun violence in the city. The Newsmaker this week highlights a Delco native and Temple graduate, Lydia Peterson, who is set to debut her first film “Walking On.” Her film is already being compared to movies like Love and Basketball. She says she wants to “tell stories we want to see.” The Philly Rising Changemaker is Reuben Jones, founder of Frontline Dads Community Food Bank. Jones shares their efforts in being a mutual aid in making deliveries to seniors, veterans, pregnant mothers, and people living with disabilities amid the pandemic and just in time for the holidays. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

So far we've talked to mothers who lost their children to gun violence, community leaders working to prevent violence, and medical experts about the state of Philadelphia's gun violence crisis. This week's Flashpoint focuses on the solutions to gun violence and hearing from youth and their perspective on how youth can make an impact in finding solutions to prevent gun violence. This week's newsmaker highlights Swarthmore College's collaboration with local groups and activists in the launch of Delco's first homicide database with CeaseFire Pa's Executive Director, Adam Garber. The Philly Rising Changemaker honors the Shelton T. Hayes Foundation created by Rhonda Gore, after the death of her son in 2018, in an effort to help other families survive the grief of losing a loved one to gun violence. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint discusses the domestic violence issue amid the pandemic and highlights the recent uptick in domestic homicide. Marcella Nyachogo, Assistant Director of the Bilingual Domestic Violence Program at Lutheran Settlement House shares the impact of safe housing, but there are many barriers that prevent survivors from obtaining, maintaining safe and affordable housing. Jess Ivey is a domestic violence survivor and consultant advocating awareness of domestic abuse that leads to domestic homicide. The newsmaker of the week is Angela Anderson, a Master’s level Therapist with a background in Child psychology who now works in Philadelphia public schools helping students cope with the pressures of school, home, and peers. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Bucks County's only domestic violence shelter, A Woman's Place, and the increase in demand for their help during the pandemic. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week's Flashpoint is focused on education and critical race theory. KYW's Jay Scott Smith sits with Kristin Leubbert, a local Philadelphia school teacher who has taught mostly Black and Brown students, explains why she is not afraid of critical race theory. The newsmaker of the week is Yolanda Wisher, the third Poet Laureate of Philadelphia as well as an educator who uses spoken word poetry focusing on her experiences as a Black woman as well as the collective Black experiences in Philadelphia. The Philly Rising Changemaker highlights Ron Curtis of Final Touch Academy. Curtis shares his story of once being incarcerated and opening his dream academy for those chasing their dreams. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The recent tragedy of the rape of a woman on public transportation last week has sparked national outrage and resentment. Many reports claimed that witnesses watched the incident transpire and took videos of it for their own gratifications. NBC10 reported District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer "That is simply not true. It did not happen. We have security video from SEPTA that shows that is not the true narrative.” This week Flashpoint will focus on the importance of bystander intervention. KYW's Antionette Lee speaks with WOAR's Teresa White-Walston, Director of Education Services, and Rachel Copen, Director of Counseling Services on their bystander intervention program in their efforts to fight against sexual violence. Our Newsmaker of the week is Sappho Fulton CEO of Sappho and LaRoyce Foundation an organization specifically for the QTBIPOC community. Sappho has been a long-time community activist with a focus on domestic abuse and violence within the communities. The Philly Rising Changemaker is Dr. Helena Fontes of the NewView Institute and her efforts to aid domestic violence and counsel young men to prevent domestic violence. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Flashpoint is highlighting National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, which occurs every October. Marisa Brahney, a TV host from New Jersey, shares her experience in losing her first daughter and her effort to continue to raise awareness and understanding for families in need. Dr. Rayna Markin is a local therapist who focuses on maternal mental health, pregnancy loss, and infertility with women and couples who have experienced pregnancy loss/infertility advises parents who need support. Our Newsmaker of the week is Asasiya Muhammad, founder of Inner Circle Midwifery in Germantown. Muhammad is one of few midwives of color in Philadelphia and has been a tested community source of support for women of color during pregnancy. The Philly Rising Changemaker is a local non-profit catering to parents and families who are grieving the loss of a child. Three Little Birds LLC was founded by Kristen Samuelson who is working to bring awareness of infant loss. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices