Closer Look with Rose Scott

First, Jennifer Lester, a psychotherapist, life coach and the founder of The Purpose Project discusses the importance of prioritizing mental health during the pandemic.Then, we turn to Miriam Phields, a registered yoga teacher and sound path practitioner.And finally, Briana St. Holder, an Atlanta-based plant curator and interior designer shares why she believes creating a green space in your home can be a form of self-care. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Molly Wood, host and senior editor of “Marketplace Tech” and the co-host of the podcast “Make Me Smart,” discusses a new three-part episode series,“The Economy, What Now?”And, Ebonie Martin, program director at Wilderness Works, shares how her organization is working to provide outdoor enrichment activities to Atlanta youth, particularly those who are homeless.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First, Corianne Payton Scally, a principal research associate in the Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center at the Urban Institute, discusses the findings of a new analysis that finds one in four United States rental units were covered by he CARES Act eviction moratorium.Then, Dan Immergluck, a professor in the Urban Studies Institute at Georgia State University, discusses how the pandemic has affected affordable housing in Georgia, as well as his recommendations for solutions at the state and federal level.And finally, a roundtable of guests including Don Coleman, co-managing attorney at Atlanta Legal Aid, Alison Johnson, executive director of the Housing Justice League, and Georgia Legal Services eviction prevention director Susan Reif, share what they are hearing directly from tenants and landlords across the city and state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Pam Tatum, CEO Quality Care for Children CEO Pam Tatum shares some of the challenges childcare workers are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic.And, Kristin Lewis, director of Measure America, discusses the the findings of a new report, "A Decade Undone: Youth Disconnection in the Age of Coronavirus."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Chang, executive director of redefined atlanta and Dr. Kenneth Zeff, executive director of Learn4Life, discuss the findings of a new report that measure COVID-19's impact on student achievement in the metro Atlanta area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Atlanta Dream point guard and WNBA champion Renee Montgomery shares why she’s sitting out this basketball season to focus on social justice issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Agnes Scott College will begin the fall academic semester remotely. Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College Christine Cozzens discusses the college’s plans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Margaret Huang, new president and C-E-O of the Southern Poverty Law Center shares her her goals for the organization amid protests, the pandemic, and recent internal changes within the nonprofit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Mary Newton, a behavioral health program coordinator for the Atlanta Regional Commission and Angela White, a behavioral health coach for the Atlanta Regional Commission discuss the expansion of a behavioral health coaching program that aims to help older adults who are at risk of eviction. Then, Reverend Dr. Mark LaRocca-Pitts, host and founder of Death Cafe Atlanta, shares how local Death Café chapters offer a safe space for conversations about mortality during the pandemic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, a conversation about how pandemic and a previous shutdown has affected the state's restaurant industry with Karen Bremer, the CEO of the Georgia Restaurant Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newly-named President and CEO of the Carter Center, Paige Alexander provides details on how the Center will continue its mission during this pandemic. And finally, a conversation with Kiah Williams, SIRUM, a non-profit tech company that aims to make prescription medication more affordable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Xernona Clayton, Congressman John Lewis and Reverend C.T. Vivian were close friends for several decades. Today’s program begins with a conversation with the journalist and fellow civil rights pioneer about their friendship and what she wants the world to know about their lives and legacies.Then, we turn to a conversation about Lewis’ political career with Denis O’Hayer, host of the WABE podcast,“Political Breakfast.” We also revisit a previous conversation with former Republican U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, who spoke with Rose in December 2019 about his friendship with Lewis.Finally, Spelman College President Mary Schmidt Campbell, Doug Shipman, president and CEO of the Woodruff Arts Center, Maurice Hobson, author and assistant professor of African-American Studies at Georgia State University, Dr. Meria Carstarphen, former Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent and Dr. Robert Franklin, the James T. and Berta R. Laney Professor in Moral Leadership at Emory University, talk about Lewis’s legacy, mentorship and leadership style.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pioneering broadcaster and fellow activist in the movement Xernona Clayton reflects on the life Reverend C.T. Vivian. Plus, Atlanta City Councilmember Joyce Shepherd responds to residents’ calls for an end to gun violence and more resources, following the shooting deaths of Rayshard Brooks and 8-year-old Secoriea Turner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Incumbent District Attorney Paul Howard and his former chief deputy prosecutor Fani Willis join “Closer Look” host Rose Scott for a debate ahead of early voting on Monday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Rebecca Rice, the Georgia Kids Count Manager, discusses the findings of an annual report that tracks the child well-being nationally and state-by-state. Also, award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter talks about the backstory behind the new documentary, ‘John Lewis: Good Trouble.’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Representative Ed Setzler, who created House Bill 481, responds to the federal judge’s ruling. Then, we hear from Kwajelyn Jackson, executive director of the Feminist Women’s Health Center.Next, a conversation with Dr. Tiffany Bussey, director of the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, and Allan Adams, state director for the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center, about a new partnership to support economic development in the city’s West End. Finally, Mark Farmer, economic development manager with Gwinnett County, discusses a new program that was established to help Gwinnett small business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter shares the backstory behind the new documentary, “John Lewis: Good Trouble.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Also, Erica Wright, founder and CEO of Project U First Incorporated, shares how her non-profit is helping Atlanta’s homeless population. Plus, co-authors Brenda Jones and Krishan Trotman, discuss their new book series, ‘Queens of the Resistance.’  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Councilmember Andre Dickens shares his thoughts on the mayor’s decision. Also, J.C. Roper and Douglas Burrell, equity partners at the Atlanta-based law firm Drew, Eckl & Farnham, discuss their firm’s approach to diversity and inclusion. Finally, children’s book author Anastasia Higginbotham shares ways parents can talk with their children about racism and racial equity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Also, Dragon Con’s in-person convention has been canceled. Spokesperson Dan Carroll discusses plans to host a virtual gathering.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta City Council President Felicia Moore is calling on councilmembers and the mayor to come together to address a deadly holiday weekend of gun violence in Atlanta.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First, we hear from two local teenagers – Grey Cohen and Braxton Chadwick – who started their own initiatives to help those in need during the pandemic. Then, Kirk Chase Leacock, a southwest Atlanta resident, shares what it was like to receive the gift of free groceries from Tyler Perry. And finally, Desai and Amy Comeau, vice president of marketing strategy and support at Emory Healthcare, discuss a new video series that sheds light on a day in the life of Emory frontline workers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, a conversation about keeping the culture and land for Gullah Geechee descendants on Saeoplo Island with Victor-Alan Weeks and Jennifer Thompson, recent graduates of Davidson College, and Maurice Bailey, Sapelo Island Resident and Community Liaison. And finally, Adam Gelb, CEO and President of the Council on Criminal Justice, discusses a recently published 15-step report with recommendations for reform the United States' criminal justice system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, election integrity advocate Marilyn Marks discusses the state’s new voting machines, cybersecurity and other concerns she has surrounding Georgia’s voting process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Jelani Favors, associate professor of history at Clayton State University and author of “Shelter in a Time of Storm: How Black Colleges Fostered Generations of Leadership and Activism,” gives historical context to today’s Black Lives Matter protests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Fulton County and Atlanta Hawks officials announced plans today to create what they call ‘Georgia's largest-ever voting location’ at State Farm Arena.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, WABE health reporter and host of the podcast “Did You Wash Your Hands?” Sam Whitehead provides an update on the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Georgia. And, in other health-related news, College Park-based celebrity photographer and director Derek Blanks shares his experience being diagnosed with COVID-19.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fulton County Director of Registration and Elections Richard Barron discusses his plans for addressing voting challenges in this year’s upcoming elections. Plus, “Closer Look” meets Rebecca Serna, executive director of the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, on the BeltLine’s Eastside trail for a socially-distant conversation about how the pandemic has affected the city’s transportation landscape and traffic. And finally, Adam Roseman, co-founder and CEO of Steady, discusses the challenges gig workers are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, state librarian Julie Walker discusses the process of re-opening the states’ libraries. And, newly named President of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Katie Kirkpatrick shares her vision for the organization’s future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We hear from WABE reporter Emily Green live on the scene at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Plus, Natosha Reid Rice, the founder of Fresh Rain for Life Ministries and minister for public life at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, discusses the growing need for racial reconciliation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, we revisit last week’s conversation with Samuel Lee Reid, executive director of Atlanta’s Citizen Review Board. Also, a conversation with Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robb Pitts, who addresses his decision to form a election task force to address voting problems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Then, local immigration attorney and founder of the firm Owings MacNorlin Immigration Law firm, Sarah Owings, provides analysis of what this ruling means AND what's to come. Plus, Representative Brenda Lopez Romero shares her reaction to the high court’s ruling. And, finally, there are marches and events happening around the city and state today to commemorate the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes weighs in on proposed hate crime legislation in Georgia. And finally, veteran law enforcement officer Marvin Reddick discusses the ‘blue wall,’ and the reforms he would like to see in law enforcement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, this Sunday, “Closer Look” was on the scene at the Wendy’s on University Avenue as community members gathered in response to the death of 27-year-old Rayshard Brooks, who was fatally shot by an Atlanta police officer on Friday. Today, we’ll hear from community members calling for change in light of Brooks’ death, as well as local representatives and lawmakers including Atlanta City Council Member Joyce Sheperd and state lawmakers Rep. Park Cannon, Sen. Nan Orrock.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Also, Yusef Salaam, a member of the “Exonerated Five,” reflects on current protests, the shooting of Rayshard Brooks and his vision for police reform. Plus, we hear part-two of yesterday’s conversation on effective de-escalation training. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Sunday, “Closer Look” was on the scene at the Wendy’s on University Avenue as community members gathered in response to the death of 27-year-old Rayshard Brooks, who was fatally shot by an Atlanta police officer on Friday. Today, we’ll hear from community members calling for change in light of Brooks’ death, as well as local representatives and lawmakers including Atlanta City Council Member Joyce Sheperd and state lawmakers Rep. Park Cannon, Sen. Nan Orrock. Then, we turn to WABE legal analyst and defense attorney Page Pate who for his analysis. And finally, two veterans of federal law enforcement, Ray Moore, the owner of Moore and Associates, Security Consultants and former secret service member, and Douglas Shipley, a retired Supervisory Special Agent with Federal Bureau of Investigation, discuss current de-escalation techniques and training for law enforcement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Roseman, co-founder and CEO of Steady, an Atlanta-based fintech company shares how his start-up is helping hourly and gig workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, Derek Blanks, celebrity photographer and director, shares how his story, from being diagnosed with COVID-19 to recovery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton and Smyrna Police Chief Joseph Bennett discuss a newly-passed resolution that condemns racism. And finally, Troya Jackson, foster care program manager at Families First, and Jennifer King, executive director for Georgia CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), share how the foster care system, court proceedings and custody hearings have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We hear reaction to the many problems Georgia voters experienced during yesterday’s primary election. First, Aunna Dennis, Executive Director of Common Cause Georgia shares why her organization is calling for the resignation of Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Then, Jake Evans, an attorney and chair of the Republican National Lawyers Association's Georgia chapter shares his perspective. And finally, we hear from Fani Willis, who appears to be heading into a run-off against long time Fulton County district attorney Paul Howard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samuel Reid III, the executive director of the Atlanta Citizen Review Board, discusses his response to recent protests in light of the death of George Floyd and the role his board plays in the City of Atlanta.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Walter Ley, a Georgia Tech graduate who recently launched the Atlanta-based start-up Branch discusses how he hopes his company will help inform voters heading into Tuesday's general elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Kayla Smith, a rising senior and social justice fellow at Spelman College, joins “Closer Look” to reflect on the protests that are happening in Atlanta and around the world. And, Pastor Arthur Breland, the lead pastor at United Church Atlanta, shares how he thinks local churches can help communities heal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta tech entrepreneur Jewel Burks Solomon, head of Google For Startups for the US and managing partner of Collab Capital, Justin Dawkins, managing partner at Collab Capital and co-founder of Goodie Nation, and Barry Givens, Managing Director at Techstars and Managing Partner at Collab Capital, join the program for a roundtable conversation on the role of technology in modern day activism. Plus, Ashley Robinson, Principal of the BLUE Institute, discusses a new virtual leadership training program for young millennials of color. And, we hear the latest on today’s preliminary hearing for the three men charged with the killing of Ahmaud Arbery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Closer Look’s” week-long series, “After the protests, what's next, Atlanta?” continues. First, Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard joins the program the day after announcing six Atlanta Police officers are facing charges related to the tasing two AUC students on Saturday night. Then, Devin Barrington Ward, a community organizer and managing director of the Black Futurists Group, shares his approach to organizing an effective demonstration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We hear a roundtable conversation with local experts Illya Davis, director of the New Students & Transition Programs and professor of philosophy at Morehouse College, Maurice Hobson, author and associate professor of African-American Studies at Georgia State University and Nsenga Burton, professor, multimedia journalist and co-director of Film and Media Management at Emory University. The professors will discuss the history of protest in Atlanta and share what they believe is next for the city following this weekend’s demonstrations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, John Haber, CEO of the Atlanta-based company Spend Management Experts, discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nation's supply chain. And, WABE Health reporter and host of the podcast “Did You Wash Your Hands?” Sam Whitehead recaps this week in coronavirus news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, we'll hear how the Atlanta-based family business, Bronner Bros., switched from producing hair products to hand sanitizer, and how the annual Bronner Bros. hair show will be different this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, Shannon Smith, the owner and founder of SoulShine, discusses her decision to re-open her two childcare centers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sanjay Satagopan and Kelly Balcarczyk share what it was like adopting their baby during the COVID-19 pandemic with the help of Diane Hood, the International and Domestic Adoption Program Coordinator for Families First. Plus, Matthew Hurd, executive director of the non-profit Open Doors discusses a new initiative aimed to help Atlanta residents seeking housing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plus, how MARTA, the airport, the city of Atlanta and a non-profit are coming together to help those seeking shelter inside Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International airport. And, the story of an Atlanta man who survived COVID-19 and donated his plasma in hopes of helping others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.