Philadelphia Community Podcast

Philadelphia Community Podcast

Each week, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks to community leaders and groups in the Philadelphia region about topics affecting our local communities and upcoming events. Insight airs Sunday on WDAS FM 6-7 am and 7-7:30 am on Power 99. What's Going On airs Sundays on Q102, ALT 104.5, and 1480 Breakthrough Radio.

Episodes

August 1, 2025 9 mins
I welcomed four inspiring guests from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Calling All Girl Bosses initiative—a free, yearlong leadership program helping girls in grades 6–12 become confident changemakers in their communities. Joining us are two remarkable Girl Scouts: Jasmine Wielgoszinski from Northeast Philly and Kinsley Jackson from West Philadelphia. They’ll share how their Gold Award projects are making an impact—from ad...
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  🎧 What’s Going On – Changing the Narrative on Gun Violence + Wilmington Heart Walk Spotlight

This week on What’s Going On, we speak with Sammy Caiola, Co-Director of the Association of Gun Violence Reporters, and Eric Marsh Sr., Director of Operations at the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting. They discuss the urgent need for trauma-informed journalism and community-centered storytelling in reshaping the national conv...
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In this episode of Insight, we’re highlighting three powerful community events making a difference in our region. First, we spotlight the Nicetown CDC Giveback Festival, an annual North Philly tradition filled with music, resources, and empowerment. Guests Majeedah Rashid, COO of Nicetown CDC, Zakariyya Abdur Rahman, President & CEO, and Tammy Boney, Production Manager and host, share how the festival promotes safety, wellness,...
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n this episode, host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with award-winning author Jason Mott, whose latest novel People Like Us delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the power of story. Mott, a National Book Award winner, shares his creative process, his thoughts on representation in literature, and what continues to inspire his work. 📚 Join Jason Mott in Philadelphia!
He’ll be appearing on Tuesday, August 6 at 6 PM at Barnes &...
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Today’s episode is packed with powerful voices and community-driven stories—from educational planning and youth leadership to rising music talent.   First, we’re joined by Colonel Oz Hill, Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia. With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement, Colonel Hill shares how the District is inviting families, students, and staff to he...
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In this episode, we’re highlighting three powerful voices working at the intersection of opportunity, advocacy, and artistry.

🎧 Omar Nelson, Executive Director of the Samuel Staten, Sr. Pre-Apprenticeship Program (SSSPAP), shares his journey from social services to leading one of the region’s most impactful workforce development initiatives. With over 20 years of experience in case management and workforce programming, Omar is help...
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Today we’re joined by Colonel Oz Hill, Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the School District of Philadelphia. With decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community engagement,. This summer, the District is hosting community engagement sessions as part of Phase Eight of its comprehensive Facilities Planning Process. These sessions give families, students, and school staff a chance to help shape how the Distr...
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Creating Inclusive Spaces for Individuals with Autism
Fostering equity and accessibility means creating environments where everyone feels welcome. At Comcast, this mission has come to life through the development of a sensory-friendly room—designed to support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. Christina Wong, Comcast’s Executive Director and Producer of Experiential Content, joins us in studio to share how this initi...
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On this episode of Insight, we’re highlighting powerful leaders, creative changemakers, and events that are building stronger, healthier communities. We begin with Tanya T. Morris, visionary entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and Founder/CEO of Mom Your Business. Tanya is on a mission to empower Black and Brown women entrepreneurs through access to capital, coaching, and community. Her innovative pitch competitions are opening doors ...
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I speak to Rev. Herb Lusk III  about a day of purpose, remembrance, and community impact at the 7th Annual Herb Lusk Golf Classic for Children, taking place Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. Hosted by Rev. Lusk III in loving memory of his father, Rev. Herb Lusk II—the former Philadelphia Eagle and visionary faith leader—this event brings together civic leaders, athletes, and supporters to champion ...
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We’re joined by Mike Papantonio, renowned trial attorney, legal analyst, and bestselling author. A senior partner at Levin Papantonio Rafferty, Mike has led high-profile legal battles against Big Pharma, tobacco companies, weapons manufacturers, and human traffickers. His latest novel, The Middleman, is a gripping legal thriller that delves into the shadowy world of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and their role in skyrocketing dr...
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🎧 Episode Spotlight: Community, Care & Change 🩺 Brian Clark – Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc. (GPHA)
Today we’re joined by Brian Clark, Chief Executive Officer of Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc. — better known as GPHA. For 55 years, GPHA has been a trusted pillar in the region, providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare to thousands of individuals and families across Philadelphia. With a robust network ...
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Tyler Bond is the Research Director at the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS), a nonprofit focused on strengthening retirement security in the U.S. He breaks down how federal policy decisions—and looming Social Security shortfalls—could impact millions of future retirees. As America faces a retirement crisis, Bond’s insights are more urgent than ever.
🔗 nirsonline.org
📱 @NIRSonline on Twitter/X, Facebook & LinkedI...
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Today we’re joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They’re leading Trash Talkin’ — a new community conversation series addressing Philly’s illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Department, the project centers residen...
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Today we’re joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They’re leading Trash Talkin’ — a new community conversation series addressing Philly’s illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Department, the project centers residen...
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Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati sits down with former Philadelphia City Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown, author of the powerful memoir Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels. In this candid and inspiring conversation, Blondell shares what it takes to navigate the bruising arena of big-city politics as a Black woman leader, and how she carved out a legacy of public service, resilience, and purpose.
📖 Learn more about th...
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🕊️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace
Alim Howell is a passionate activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, committed to building safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to share details about the upcoming 6th Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown. Sponsored by the Haverford Township Police Departme...
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🎙️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace
Alim Howell is an activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, dedicated to fostering safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to preview the 6th annual Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown. Sponsored by the Haverford Township Police Department, this free event fea...
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I’m  joined by Robin Williams Sr., CEO of Ronaj Movie Productions, and Karen Moore, Administrative Executive. We’re talking about their powerful new documentary, "The Legendary Marion Williams"—a heartfelt tribute to one of gospel music’s greatest voices. This film is more than just a biography—it’s a musical and cinematic journey that honors a legacy. From its world premiere at Pavilion Afrique during the Cannes Film Festival to i...
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Welcome to SpeakOUT, a monthly segment inside What’s Going On where we explore the legal, political, and cultural forces shaping the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm proud to co-host this conversation with Angela Giampolo, founder of Giampolo Law Group and the voice behind Philly Gay Lawyer. Together, we break down the headlines — from Supreme Court rulings and executive orders to grassroots resistance and community advocacy. Wheth...
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