WBCA Podcasts

Kristi Judkins, Executive Director of Iowa Right To Life, joins host Brendan O'Connell from Iowa to discuss Life Matters. Kristi shares some Iowan highlights like the Iowa State Fair, where we can find The Butter Cow Lady sculptures (Elvis Prestley, Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne) and IowaRTL's booth celebrating life. Our guest and host explore topics that are impacting the Iowan community like the history of the Fetal Heartbeat Law, improving access to Medicaid after pregnancy, expanding Safe Haven laws and helping its citizens become more knowledgeable in understanding prenatal development, among other topics. Judkins also offers testament of her journey on the pro-life movement and becoming a real advocate, her personal experience tackling the challenges of choice and relying on more than simply faith when coping with personal trauma resulting from her choice. Our friend for life Brendan O'Connell welcomes us to join the conversation with hopes of learning more about Life Matters.

MBTA reintroducing late night service on weekends, 55th Annual August Moon Festival in Chinatown, Boys & Girls Club fashion show for first day of school, interview with Asher Thomas & Olivia Monarch about Boston Tough Luck Fest Alternative Music Festival. toughluckfest.com

Sharon Hinton invites Sonya Gilmore to the show to share her experiences working as a BPS cafeteria employee, the disgusting state of the kitchens, mice eating food & messing the kitchens, disorganization and irresponsibility among staff & management, & more.

Today on "Words On Film", Dan Burke reviews "Weapons", "The Pickup", "Ebony and Ivory", and "Sorry, Baby". Mr. Burke also gives a spoken-word preview of movies subject to being released into theaters for the week of August 11th - 15th, 2025.

Elder Betty McGuire from CrossTown Church International joins our host Rochelle Jones in speaking life, restoration and healing over body, mind, spirit and soul. Elder Betty welcomes listeners to experience Boston Healing Rooms where believers can convene to pray for restoration of wellbeing. Scriptures referring to the healing power of God are shared to remind the faithful of his promises to direct these to a path laden with support, strength, restoration and rescue. Rochelle reminds us there is no need to never give up if there is trust and comfort in faith for plenitude in the power of God.

Host Ken Meyer interviews author Kim Cross about her book "In Light Of All Darkness: A Look Inside the Polly Klaas kidnapping", the bone-chilling manhunt story, how this case advanced law enforcement procedures and technology, 20/20 coverage of her book and the case, how the book changed Kim's life, and more! Author website: kimhcross.com On Instagram: @Kim Cross Where you can find the book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kim-cross/in-light-of-all-darkness/9781538725085/ Where you can read The Alchemists: https://www.bicycling.com/culture/a62503930/afghanistan-cyclist-evacuation-taliban-us-troop-withdrawal/

Mayor Wu's Summer Dance Party Series continues at City Hall Plaza, BSide Newsletter's Best Day Ever event at Artist for Humanity Center, interview with Amy Epstein, Exec. Dir. of CASA, about how the organization addresses youth mental health, substance prevention, & community connection & more.

Haywood Fennell interviews veteran and documentarian Bob Nesson. Together, they discuss Nesson's recent documentary, Holding Up the Sky, which follows two men convicted of homicide when they were teenagers and the lives they built for themselves both in prison and after being granted parole. Haywood and Bob also discuss the Stanley Jones Clean State Project, the importance of CORI reform, and the issues the VA healthcare system faces under the current political administration.

Join dale and Cheryl for some delicious mississippi mud brownies! Ep.# 321 PSA Free!

Host Kristen Halbert and guests Armani White of Reclaim Roxbury and Marisol Santiago of MassVOTE!

Host Colbe Mazzarella talks to Julie Fitzgerald President Operation Rescue, about programs, resources, and support Operation Rescue offers to families.

The North End's Italian community gathers for the feast day of patron saints such as Saint Agrippina of Mineo. Roxbury Presbyterian Church's executive director Krystal Pegram discusses the importance of mental health and community through turmoil and trauma, as well as the "You Deserve Joy" event which focuses on healing through creative arts.

Host Rachel Miselman discusses "Pink Slime Journalism", the importance of professional journalistic training & preparation, false reporters & journalists, seeking viral notoriety over journalistic integrity, & more.

Larry Higginbottom urges listeners to focus on acquiring "high income skills" rather than relying on social programs.

Today on "Words On Film", Dan Burke reviews "The Naked Gun" (2025), "The Fantastic Four: First Steps", "Happy Gilmore 2", "Oh, Hi!", and "Together". Mr. Burke also runs down the movies subject to being released into theaters for the week of August 4th - 8th, 2025.

Rochelle Jones is here to share with us that we are not alone. Times can make folks feel weary and tired, battered nearly broken, and our host's connection with a higher power concerns itself with uplifting those that need the coach in their corner. The belief is there: that you can get up, stay motivated, find those to surround you with positivity, that seeds prosper into new life. The ability to move forward is within your power and taking account of today with confidence is what it takes if you will it so with the testimony of your survival story of any challenges you face. Everyone loves a comeback story and miracles in life require the courage to see that your story is not over yet. Find the grace to turn the page and move on to the next chapter, where giving up is not an option, with Rochelle Jones.

The Mayoral Forum on Arts & Culture offers a glimpse into candidates' perspectives on the future of arts and culture in Boston. Learn the proposed policies from Mayor Michelle Wu, Josh Kraft, and Domingos Darosa. "Live Long And Well,", Boston's population health equity agenda, continues its mission to improve health outcomes for all Bostonians. Hear an interview with Danny Guadagnoli of the Fallon Company, a community-centered real estate group that collaborates with local non-profits to provide young adults with training in real estate and entrepreneurship. Learn about the company's partnership with Street2Ivy, a non-profit that connects and nurtures future leaders.

Host Haywood Fennell Shares his view of veterans being a under used and overlooked community resource. As well as the erasure of African American veterans in history.

Join Dale and Cheryl for Dale's delicious crockpot apple sausage mushroom stuffing! Ep.#320 PSA Free!

Host Mary Tamer! Guests Greg Maynard (Founder & Exec. Dir., Boston Policy Institute, Inc.) & Annissa Essaibi George (former City Councilor & Owner, Stitch House).

Brendan O'Connell, host of Life Matters, tackles the ponderous task of addressing safety issues with "chemically-induced" abortions. Brendan shares his insights on attending the 54th annual National Right To Life Conference in Overland Park, Kansas. Statistics on the use of mifepristone and misoprostol, FDA-regulated medications utilized by health care providers under the Mifepristone REMS program, are explored as women across the nation take measures throughout various states to access health options for terminating pregnancies and encounter complications through the use of these medications. Different laws and the way they carry conflicts across state borders as women try to navigate options for their wellbeing are illustrated in examples of cases where medical care has been inadequate or mishandled and led to scrutiny by the healthcare and judicial system. Safeguards, legislation and increased reporting efforts are suggested as necessary actions to ensure the protections of at-risk newborns and expecting mothers in the nation.

Boston's Annual Puerto Rican Festival in Franklin Part brings together Boricuas and fellow Bostonians in a celebration of culture and music. Artists from across the world gather for the International Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach. Hear an interview with Emily Schario, head of content at the B-Side, a weekday newsletter for young Bostonians to stay in tune with Boston happenings, and learn about the upcoming Best Day Ever festival.

Host Rachel Miselman talks about the viral "Coldplay Affair" between former Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot focusing on the surrounding effects of blatant cheating, as well as a secondary focus of feminism and women in politics in Massachusetts. Join in and share your opinion.

Larry Higginbottom discusses the importance of essential high income skills, how ADOS political & social capital has been squandered, how civil rights laws & affirmative action came to benefit more than just ADOS whom it was originally intended for, politics failing ADOS, the Democratic party promoting an impoverished lifestyle of welfare programs, & more.

Host Sharon Hinton speaks to fellow BNN producer Nellie Mae Live. She shares how she got interested and involved in media production and the people that inspire her. Sharon recounts her chance meeting with James Earl Jones. Sharon and Nellie discuss interviewing techniques.

Helen Credle joins Deborah and Linda once more, this time to discuss Malcolm X following his hundredth birthday. Helen shares her experiences meeting Malcolm X, and how they bonded over their relationships with Melnea Cass. Hear a personal perspective of the civil rights leader.

Local musician, producer, and rapper Missterious Glow visits the studio for a live performance and interview. Learn the meaning behind her artist name, get insight into her songwriting process, and hear how music has helped her express her true self.

Rochelle Jones talks to people who almost made it to the finish line and then stumbled, who lost it all before the win, and offers words of encouragement for moving forward. Get up, and try again!

Guest Upton Bell!

Upton Bell 2023 interview. Upton's feedback on the current state of Boston sports! Check out the Upton Bell Collection http://scua.library.umass.edu/upton-bell-collection/

Healthcare Workers Union 1199 SEIU pickets at Upham's Corner Health Center to protest the poor working conditions of home healthcare workers. The Gardens of Egleston project celebrates community gardens in Boston's Egleston Square. Plus, an interview with Kim Todd, president of Dress For Success Boston, a non-profit that empowers job seekers to look and feel their best.

Join Dale and Cheryl for mushrooms stuffed with crabmeat and a rice, broccoli, and cheese casserole! Ep.# 319 PSA Free!

On the 1st half, 9th Suffolk State Rep. John Moran & Boston City Councilor John FitzGerald. On the 2nd half, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Eastern MA Monica Roberts & 7th Suffolk State Rep. Chynah Tyler.

The Roxbury Unity Parade celebrates black culture and community pride. Festival Betances transforms Villa Victoria into a colorful celebration of Puerto Rican culture. Hear an interview with Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, CEO of Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA), a community development corporation that provides affordable housing, as well as education and arts programs. She discusses IBA's upcoming development plans, including La CASA.

Host Larry Higginbottom shares why he prefers the phrase American Descendants of Slaves (ADOS) over African American, discusses his issues with immigration, and encourages people to develop "high-income skills" to get ahead in American society.

Today on "Words On Film", Dan Burke reviews "Smurfs", "Eddington", "Superman" (2025), "Madea's Destination Wedding", and "Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore". Mr. Burke also gives a spoken-word preview of movies subject to being released into theaters on July 26th, 2025.

On this historic episode, host and co-host Deborah Shariff and Linda Solomon welcome Helen Credle and Marcia Davis talk about their experiences being taught and raised by Elma Lewis, founder of the Elma Lewis school of Fine Arts. Learn their stories and journey—living proof that "Service is sacred and story telling is survival."

Host Brooklyn Ang and Nellie Mae start spicy with the effects of porn on a relationship, then go in to Miss Nellie Mae her Journey from nothing to something and what comes next. Tune in!

Rochelle talks about answering the call of God and continuing to worship during times of hardship. She also lays out steps to reconnect with God when feeling disconnected from your purpose, such as reading scripture, connecting with the Christian community, reflecting on what God has already done in your life, and more.

Ken Meyers interviews guest Stephen Sawicki about his book "Teach Me To Kill", Stephen's background and what lead him to write the book, the strange truths of the Pam Smart case and the murder of her husband, what's next for Stephen, & more!

Welcome Home Initiative for new homeowners in Dorchester, Seniors Health & Wellness programming at Elk Center in West Roxbury, interview with Chad Hassey, Dir. of Operations for The Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester, about their summer programming and job opportunities for teens.

Join Dale and Cheryl as they make some gravy and cook two turkey breasts, one in the oven and one on the grill! Ep.318 PSA Free!

Brendan O'Connell invites Scot Fischbach (Exec. Dri., National Right to Life Committee) to the show to discuss the Medina vs Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic Supreme Court ruling, commemorating the 3rd anniversary of the Dobbs decision and its effects for Right to Life, the One Big Beautiful Bill ending tax payer funding of the abortion industry, the FDA reviewing mifepristone, designating June as "Life" Month, & more.

MBTA fallout prompting rescue, Boston heat emergency, common power outages in Boston, Boston Convention & Exhibition Center renamed in honor of Mayor Menino, Boston's Safe Shopping Initiative to detour shop-lifting increase, Upcoming Summer Events, report from the Charles River Jazz Festival.

Host Rachel Miselman discusses the importance of appearance and its relation to how one feels about themselves, beauty standards for women and related discourse, and the need for significant representation from multiple political parties in Suffolk County and Massachusetts.

Larry Higginbottom opines further on illegal immigration, how America doesn't owe immigrants anything over what it owes its citizens, taxpayer money supporting immigrants, Boston not keeping track of immigration funding, the failure of immigration enforcement in the past decades, the Democratic party designed to keep black people poor, & more.

Sharon Hinton speaks to Talia Whyte, worker-owner at the Rozzie Bound Co-op Bookstore, a community-owned bookstore that promotes literacy and freedom of speech. Talia shares how a cooperative works, explains what community-owners and consumer-owners are, and discusses the importance of reading. Learn about how you can support independent book stores in the midst of book bannings, tariffs, and other threats. To find out about upcoming events at Rozzie Bound, you can visit rozziebound.com

Deborah Shariff and co-host Linda Solomon interview Dr. Aminah Fernandes Pilgrim and Dr. Carine Sauvignon about implementing a Black Studies Associate's Degree at Massasoit Community College. This episode continues the conversation in a series highlighting the importance of Black Studies in academia and their development. The doctors join our hosts to inform us of their efforts, along with many others in higher education, to meet with students at the intersection of academic development and social justice issues. There is a phenomenal opportunity to impact the future of our communities through an education on how the black experience contributes to our society and its members-- through history, culture, media, civic engagement, technologies, and much more. Urban empowerment today leads to better urban communities tomorrow and education offers incredible tools to build up our communities. Join the conversation.

Never Give Up heats up this week with a burning question for when things get real. What do you do when your faith gets tired? Host Rochelle Jones is joined by Cassandra Desrosiers to explore ways in which personal faith can be reinvigorated and how to overcome trials of spiritual fatigue. Words of encouragement are offered up by the program where giving up is not an option. Cassandra and Rochelle remind us that faith is strengthened through trials and belief is the way through. Belief calls for new ways of thinking at times and how we feel can be rested by words offered by a higher power. Find ways to silence the noise and rest in the ways of faith without fear.

Guest long-time radio veteran Nancy Quill!