KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Khalique Rogers and Samia Mohamud about growing concerns over proposed changes to Minnesota’s Post Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program. They explain how the program provides free college credit to high school students while saving families and taxpayers millions, and why new restrictions could limit access, especially for first-generation and low-income students. Samia shares her firsthand experience as a student advocate, testifying at the state level and pushing for equitable access to education opportunities. The conversation also highlights a broader coalition effort calling for transparency, enforcement of existing laws, and a pause on changes until a full review is completed.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Mary Moore Easter about her poetry collection Free Papers, inspired by the testimony of Eliza Winston, a Mississippi slave who won her freedom in a Minnesota court in 1860. Easter shares the research process behind the book, including her deep dive into historical court transcripts and what moved her to bring this story to life through poetry. She also highlights her upcoming book reading at the Hennepin History Museum, where attendees can engage in discussion, ask questions, and purchase signed copies. The conversation underscores the importance of preserving and sharing powerful local histories that continue to resonate today.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speaks with Leela James about her latest project, the 2B Honest EP, and the inspiration behind its soulful and honest sound. She reflects on her career evolution, blending classic soul influences with contemporary R&B, and what continues to drive her artistry. Leela also shares details about her ongoing tour and what fans can expect from her upcoming performances, including her May 2nd show. Additionally, she highlights her song “Rise and Shine” being featured in the upcoming film You, Me, and Tuscany, marking another exciting chapter in her career.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Jay Haapala about AARP’s Fraud Prevention Month and the growing threat of scams and identity theft. He highlights common and emerging scams, including jury duty text scams, job-related fraud, and targeted messages tied to local permits, emphasizing how criminals use urgency and fear to exploit victims. Haapala shares practical tips for protecting personal information and recognizing red flags, while encouraging listeners to stay informed as scams evolve. He also promotes the upcoming Twin Cities Scam Jam event and AARP’s Fraud Watch Network as valuable resources to help individuals safeguard their finances and support others in their communities.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Ruth Lynfield about the importance of syphilis awareness and public health education. She explains that anyone who is sexually active can contract syphilis, but emphasizes that it can be easily detected through a simple blood test at a clinic. Dr. Lynfield highlights the serious risks of untreated syphilis, particularly during pregnancy, where it can cause significant harm to babies. She also reassures listeners that syphilis is curable with proper treatment, underscoring the importance of regular testing and early intervention.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Rodney Hamilton about his visit to Minneapolis to teach in the Katherine Dunham Dance Residency at Lundstrum Performing Arts. He shares insights into the life and legacy of Katherine Dunham, a pioneering dancer and anthropologist who blended African and Caribbean traditions with modern dance. Hamilton explains the cultural and spiritual roots of many modern dance forms and why preserving this history is important today. He also highlights opportunities for the community to participate in classes and auditions, emphasizing accessibility and inclusion for dancers of all levels.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Elizabeth Keenan about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and the importance of inclusion and accessibility in education. She shares that Minneapolis Public Schools serves about 6,000 students through special education, with support systems in place from birth through age 22. Dr. Keenan highlights key resources like assistive technology, sensory rooms, and transition programming designed to help students thrive. She also discusses ongoing improvement efforts and the challenges of underfunding, while encouraging families to explore available services and supports through the district.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Christine Tucci Osorio about how School District 622 is stabilizing after months of disruption tied to recent immigration enforcement activity in the Twin Cities. She shares that while the situation has improved, the district continues to support families through outreach, food assistance, and ongoing vigilance. Osorio outlines next steps focused on getting students back into classrooms consistently and prioritizing academic recovery. She also highlights efforts to restore normalcy while remaining responsive to community needs as conditions continue to evolve.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings speaks with Pamela Weems about her inclusion in The American Flag, a book featuring historic images from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. She shares the story behind how her photograph—originally captured for The Washington Post—became part of the museum’s permanent collection, and its connection to the movement following George Floyd’s death. Weems reflects on what it means to be part of a visual legacy that highlights the resilience and contributions of African Americans from slavery through the Civil Rights Movement to today. The conversation also explores the importance of preserving Black history for future generations and her Barnes & Noble book signing event.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Edgar R. Olivo about how the American Red Cross is preparing for an expected increase in disasters this spring. He shares insights on the types of emergencies impacting communities, from home fires to wildfires, and how the Red Cross supports families with shelter, food, and emergency assistance. Olivo emphasizes the importance of preparedness and offers practical steps families can take now to stay safe before disasters strike. The conversation also highlights the critical role of donations and volunteers in enabling rapid response efforts. He encourages listeners to get involved with Red Cross Giving Day on March 25 to support communities in need.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams about the ongoing budget process at Minneapolis Public Schools, including a projected $50 million gap driven by rising costs, declining enrollment, and underfunding. She shares how the district is advocating at the state level for more stable funding while working to minimize cuts to programs and staff. Dr. Sayles-Adams also highlights opportunities for community input, including a rescheduled transformation meeting and extended survey deadlines. The conversation celebrates student success stories, from a National Merit Scholar to standout performances by student-athletes in wrestling and swimming. She also reminds families of important upcoming dates, including Eid al-Fitr, Spring Break, and the return to full in-person learning in April.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with legendary R&B singer Karyn White about her powerful return to the spotlight with her new single, “You’re Gonna Want Me Back.” She reflects on seeing it climb the Billboard Top 30 R&B chart, marking her first major chart success in decades. White also discusses the global response to the single and how her journey, faith, and life experiences have shaped this new chapter in her music career. The conversation highlights her enduring legacy as the voice behind classic hits like “Superwoman” and her continued impact on the world of soul and R&B.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Amber Banks about the mission of the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs and the role Black-led community development financial institutions play in expanding access to capital. She explains how CDFIs help entrepreneurs start businesses, support homeownership, and invest in communities often overlooked by traditional financial institutions. Banks also discusses why leaders from across the Midwest are gathering in Minneapolis to collaborate and share strategies to grow community investment. The conversation highlights the Black Renaissance Fund, which provides grants and low-interest capital to strengthen Black-led CDFIs and increase their ability to support economic growth in underserved communities.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Dr. La Tonya Overton about how Minneapolis Public Schools is celebrating Women’s History Month. She highlights the upcoming “Who’s That Lady?” event at the Davis Center, where students will dress as influential women in history and share their stories with the community. Dr. Overton also reflects on the legacies of trailblazers like Nellie Stone Johnson and Lucy Craft Laney and why it’s important for students to learn about women who helped shape history and social change. The conversation emphasizes the power of education, representation, and community events that inspire young learners to recognize the impact of women past and present.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Jay Haapala about the spike in IRS imposter scams during tax season. He explains how criminals pose as IRS agents through voicemails, texts, and emails to demand payment, steal personal information, or gain access to devices and financial accounts. Haapala outlines common red flags—including requests for payment by gift cards or cryptocurrency—and reminds listeners that the IRS does not initiate contact in these ways. He also highlights protective tools like the IRS Identity Protection PIN program and encourages people to stay informed through AARP’s Fraud Watch Network to avoid becoming victims.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell welcomes Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams to share an encouraging message to the Minneapolis Public Schools community following several challenging months. She thanks families and supporters for rallying around students while highlighting continued flexibility with online learning and the inspiring resilience shown across the district. The conversation spotlights achievements including Teacher of the Year nominees, new Student School Board representatives, Future City finalists, student-athlete successes, and Roosevelt High School’s National Unified Champion recognition. Dr. Sayles-Adams also previews upcoming events like the District Spelling Bee, underscoring the pride and momentum building throughout MPS.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcome Christine Tucci Osorio back for another “Chat with Christine” to discuss how things are evolving in District 622. She shares that the community is calmer after last month’s heightened ICE activity, while the district continues outreach, monitoring resources, and providing support such as supervision and food delivery for affected families. Looking ahead, Osorio emphasizes the importance of getting students fully reengaged in school and focusing on academic recovery. She closes with a positive note, wishing listeners a Happy Lunar New Year and highlighting celebrations within the district’s Chinese Immersion program.