- African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC)
We’re joined by Regina Hairston, President & CEO of AACC. Under her leadership, the Chamber continues to advocate for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, providing vital resources and opportunities to grow and thrive. The Chamber is preparing for its 32nd Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 6–9 PM at the Bellevue Hotel, 200 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102. This year’s honorees include Congressman Dwight Evans (Vanguard Award), the Philadelphia 76ers, Black Nonprofit Chief Executives of Philadelphia (BNCEP), IMC Construction, and PureFuel.
🌐 Learn more: aachamber.com
📱 Follow: X: @official_AACC | Instagram: @official_aacc | Facebook: AAChamber | LinkedIn: African American Chamber of Commerce - Lupus Awareness & Walk to End Lupus Now
We speak with Shawn Triggs, Regional Director for the Lupus Foundation of America, PA Delaware Valley Region, and Lynnai Jay, lupus warrior and ambassador. They share insights on living with lupus and local support resources, as well as details about the upcoming Philadelphia Lupus Loop & Walk to End Lupus Now at the Navy Yard on Saturday, October 18th. Registration begins at 8:00 AM, with opening ceremonies at 9:30 AM, followed by a 5K run/walk.
🌐 Event details: lupus.org/pdv
📱 Follow: Instagram: @lfa_pdvregion | Facebook: Lupus Foundation of America, Pennsylvania Delaware Valley Region - Women Against Abuse – iPledge Campaign
On October 1st, I was honored to emcee the 18th Annual iPledge Campaign at City Hall, launching Domestic Violence Awareness Month with this year’s theme: HOPE—a powerful call to support survivors and build a safer future. We’ll share an excerpt from the event. https://www.womenagainstabuse.org/
If you or someone you know needs help, call the toll-free 24-hour Hotline: 1.866.723.3014
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Good morning. You're listening to Insight, a show about empowering
our community. I'm Lorraine Ballad. Tomorrow we're going to talk
about loopus, a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide,
but especially women of color. And we'll tell you about
an upcoming Philadelphia loop. And we'll tell you about the
upcoming Philadelphia Loopus loop and walk to end Loopus. Finally,
(00:20):
we'll share an excerpt from Women Against Abuse's I Pledge
event at City Hall to kick off Domestic Violence Prevention Month.
But first, let's talk about one of the most important
events supporting black businesses in the.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
Region, Regina Hairston, President CEO the African American Chamber of
Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.
Speaker 1 (00:39):
Well, we are joined by Regina, who is the head
of the African American Chamber of Commerce. Under her leadership,
the Chamber continues to advocate for black owned businesses and
entrepreneurs across the region, providing resources, visibility, and opportunities to
grow and thrive. This year, the organization is proud to
host its thirty second annual a dinner and award ceremony Wednesday,
(01:02):
October eighth from six to nine pm at the Bellevue Hotel.
The evening will honor distinguished leaders and we're so excited.
Thank you, Regina for joining us. For those who may
not be familiar, can you share the mission of the
African American Chamber of Commerce and how it serves the
black business community in Philadelphia?
Speaker 3 (01:22):
Absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (01:23):
The African American Chamber of Commerce was founded thirty two
years ago in nineteen ninety three as a response to
a legal challenge by black contractors not getting city work.
Speaker 3 (01:34):
So they felt they were being discriminated against as it
relates to city.
Speaker 2 (01:38):
Contracts, and so from that, the African American Chamber of
Commerce was stood up to support black businesses to ensure
that they have advocacy, advocacy to opportunities, advocacy to legislation,
and advocacy to regulations that are going to allow them
to grow and thrive in our region.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Regina, there are so many tools and resources that the
African American Chamber provides. Can you give us a quick
idea of what those tools and resources are?
Speaker 3 (02:10):
Absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
First and foremost, it's our advocacy be ensure that any
barriers that businesses are facing, that we help remove those
by advocating to our elected officials and to our corporate
partners to ensure those barriers have been removed. We provide
technical assistance or business development as we like to call it.
(02:31):
So if businesses need help scaling their business, we connect
them to the.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
Resources to scale.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
So let's say they need assistance with access to capital,
we have banking partners to find the perfect banking solution
for that business to help.
Speaker 3 (02:47):
Them access capital.
Speaker 2 (02:48):
And not just access at a capital, but making sure
that capital is affordable.
Speaker 1 (02:53):
The Chamber is celebrating it's thirty second annual Dinner and
Awards ceremony on the eighth. What makes this year celebration special?
Speaker 2 (03:01):
So there are a lot of things that make our
celebrations special, but I will say this year we are
honoring Congressman Dwight Evans. He is the Vanguard Awardie. And
why is that special Because in nineteen ninety three, when
Bruce Crawley started the Chamber, he went to Congressman Evans,
then State Appropriations chairman, and said the Chamber.
Speaker 3 (03:25):
Needs a budget.
Speaker 2 (03:26):
Appropriation needs funding to start the Chamber, and Congressman Evans
appropriated seventy five thousand dollars to Bruce Crawley and the
founders to stand up the African American Chamber of Commerce,
and we have been advocating for black businesses ensuring that
they have access to opportunities since Congressman Evans made that
(03:48):
investment in the Chamber so long ago.
Speaker 3 (03:51):
So we are so excited to honor him.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
It's wonderful to be able to give Congressman Dwight Evans
his roses because he has done so much for our community. Now,
this year's honorees also include the Philadelphia seventy six Ers,
b nceep, IMC Construction, and Pure Fuel. What do these
organizations in business represent about the spirit of leadership and
(04:13):
innovation in our community?
Speaker 3 (04:15):
Absolutely so no one can do it alone.
Speaker 2 (04:17):
The African American Chamber of Commerce looks to its partners
to ensure that we are moving black business forward, and
so when we talk about all of the honorees, they
have played a significant.
Speaker 3 (04:28):
Role in doing so.
Speaker 2 (04:30):
The Philadelphia seventy six Ers are looking to build a
new stadium in South Philadelphia. When you talk about opportunities
for black businesses, that is the type of opportunities we
look to connect our businesses to a once in a
lifetime billion dollar project that is going to allow our
businesses to really grow and throve. The Philadelphia seventy six
(04:52):
Ers were a partner in this. They came to us
and said, we want to make sure that black businesses
are connected to this project. Not only the they say,
we want to make sure that they're connected to it.
They said, African American Chamber of Commerce, we want you
to lead the way ensuring that they are ready when.
Speaker 3 (05:07):
The opportunity comes.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So they commissioned us to do a study around black
concessionaires in the city of Philadelphia, seeing what the landscape is,
seeing who was available, and making sure that by twenty
thirty one issue when the stadium is built, that those
concessionaires cannot only come into the opportunity come into the stadium,
(05:31):
but they can be sustainable and last because we will
have put in the guard rails in place to make
sure that they not only have an opportunity, but they thrive.
Speaker 1 (05:41):
So important beyond the dinner. The Chamber has recently launched
a new back office program for solopreneurs and open a
brand new office space a twentieth end market. How will
these initiatives support small business owners and fuel regional growth?
Speaker 2 (05:57):
So when you think about black businesses and the innovation
and the services they provide, they do it on a
smaller scale than their peers. Ninety four percent of black
businesses do not have employees. Think about that. Of all
the black businesses that we have, ninety four percent don't
have employees. And so what we're looking to do with
(06:17):
our back office support is to change that statistic.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
We are going to grow our black businesses.
Speaker 2 (06:23):
That means more opportunities, more jobs for the local economy.
That means more just growth and general for in general
for our economic development here in the region. And so
the Back office Hub will provide that back office support,
which is your HR, your legal, your marketing, and your accounting.
That will help these businesses grow by having the right
(06:45):
professional services to navigate that for them.
Speaker 3 (06:49):
And we are.
Speaker 2 (06:49):
Providing that at the African American Chamber of Commerce.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
Wow, that is so innovative. That is a great, great
idea and great campaign. Finally, how can business owners, community
and supporters get involved with the Chamber, whether through membership,
attending events like the upcoming awards ceremony, or supporting your programs?
Speaker 2 (07:08):
Absolutely so they can go to our website at aachamber
dot com that's aachamber dot com. They can follow us
on social media and reach out to us and we
will help get them plugged into the Chamber. And we
also are looking forward to having you as our MC
on October eighth as well.
Speaker 1 (07:25):
I'm so excited to be an MC. Regina Harriston, President
and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce. Under
her leadership, the Chamber continues to advocate for black owned
businesses and entrepreneurs across the region, offering resources, visibility, and
opportunities to grow and thrive.
Speaker 3 (07:43):
Thank you so much, thank you.
Speaker 4 (07:51):
Every child deserves a fair shot at a bright future,
no matter where they grow up. That's why Save the
Children head Start in minute's head start programs in rural America.
Head Start reaches kids from birth to age five, when
ninety percent of brain development occurs. It provides early learning,
(08:11):
nutritious meals, health checkups, and parenting support to the families
who need it most. We level the playing field early,
helping children start school strong, stay strong, and unlock their
full potential because education is the best path out of poverty.
Learn more at Savethechildren dot org.
Speaker 1 (08:34):
Slash Headstart want to make an impact and grow your career.
Join apm's job fare October twenty second, from ten am
to three pm at seven thirty West Burke Street in Philadelphia.
We're hiring in child welfare, foster care, early childhood education,
community and economic development, and more. We offer top tier
benefits medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and generous paid time off.
(08:56):
Be part of something bigger. Your work here truly changes lives.
Don't miss this chance to step into a career that matters.
For more information, visit apmphila dot org.
Speaker 5 (09:06):
I'm the threat that's already inside the house, in the closet,
under the bed, in the car. But I don't want
your money or your TV. I can't be scared away
or negotiated with. I'm patient and quiet. I don't sleep.
(09:33):
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protect your family, secure all your guns. Learn how to
make your home safer at endfamilyfire dot org. That's endfamilyfire
(09:59):
dot org. A public service announcement brought to you by
Brady and the AD Council.
Speaker 1 (10:07):
You're listening to insight Today we're talking about lupus, a
chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions worldwide. Joining us are
Sean Triggs, Regional director for the Pennsylvania Delaware Valley Region
at the Lupas Foundation of America, and Lenae j a
Lupus warrior, volunteer, ambassador and support group facilitator. We'll be
(10:31):
talking about local resources, the impact of lupas, and the
upcoming Philadelphia Lupus Loop and Walk to end lupis now
happening at the Navy Yard Saturday, October eighteenth. Sean and Lenay,
thank you so much for joining us, and I'm going.
Speaker 3 (10:45):
To start with you.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Can you tell us more about what lupas is? I
think people have heard the word but may not understand
exactly what it is.
Speaker 6 (10:55):
Sure, absolutely, thanks lorain So. Lupas is an autoimmune disease
effects everybody quite differently. Predominantly lupas effects women. Ninety percent
of people living with lupus are women, and then women
of color are two to three times more likely to
develop lupus. So extremely important to have our name as
the Lupas Foundation of America out there in our work
(11:17):
here in the Philadelphia area, making sure that we're serving
those populations that really need us most. But Lenae can
really speak a little bit more to that firsthand experience
and a little bit more to symptoms and you know,
day to day life and all that, as it's so
varying from person to person.
Speaker 1 (11:34):
Absolutely, Linee as both a lupis warrior and a volunteer ambassador.
Can you share a little bit about your personal journey
with lupus and also what inspired you to take on
this advocacy role. So what is lupas? What impact has
it had on you your life?
Speaker 7 (11:49):
Lupas has definitely impacted my life in many ways. I
mean even daily life of lupus is different each and
every day. So, like Sean said, lucas does affect women
and women of color, which I am much more than
you know every other group. Lupus takes about the average
of six years to diagnose. Still, even with all of
(12:11):
the advances that we've had, still does take time because
lupus mimics so many other diseases and there's just a
lot of misdiagnosis before getting the proper diagnosis. And so
for me, it actually took almost ten years to get
my diagnosis, which is you know, not the average. There's
people who have gotten their diagnosis immediately, but it took
(12:31):
much longer for me. Lupis affects any organ at any
time and can even change over time.
Speaker 8 (12:38):
Which organs have been affected.
Speaker 7 (12:39):
So originally for me it was my heart and lungs,
and now it's kind of progressed. I say, like every
year it's something different, but it has just it's in
fact my life.
Speaker 8 (12:51):
I can no longer work because of my lupis.
Speaker 7 (12:53):
But as a result of that, I am able to
advocate and volunteer with the Foundation, which has been so
helpful for me to have, you know, still a fulfilling life,
you know, being able to give back. And I decided,
you know, to become involved with the foundation because when
I got diagnosed, I didn't know anybody with lupus.
Speaker 8 (13:13):
I didn't even know what lupus was.
Speaker 7 (13:15):
And so I always say, like, I don't want anyone
to feel that way, so I.
Speaker 8 (13:20):
Just I advocate every day.
Speaker 7 (13:22):
Purple has always been my favorite color, and I literally
wear purple every day.
Speaker 8 (13:26):
My office is now.
Speaker 7 (13:27):
Purple, so I wear purple, and that's you know, kind
of my way to always, you know, kind of have
that armor on of being.
Speaker 8 (13:35):
A lupus warrior. So yeah, so I just I enjoy being.
Speaker 7 (13:39):
Able to help and advocate anyway, going to d C,
doing events like this, and you know, the Loop is
one of our biggest events, and just being able to
see see of purple is just amazing.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
Well, it just happens that my hair is purple this
month in solidarity with the lupis and the loopis Loop
and Seanna, I wonder just to talk a little bit
more about, say a person like Linee. She mentioned how
long it takes for a diagnosis, and that's not uncommon.
Hers was a little longer than normal, but it's still
often very misdiagnosed. And then you add on top of that,
(14:16):
you layer on top of that health disparities that exist.
So that's another factor. I wonder if you can talk
a bit more about not only the physical impact of lupus,
but also the emotional Lupus can have a very deep
and lasting emotional impact right on an individual who's living
(14:36):
with it.
Speaker 6 (14:37):
Yeah. Absolutely, it does go beyond just the physical toll
and effects that Renee discussed. You know, mental health of
course goes hand at hand with physical health, like with
so many chronic illnesses, which is why we really see
the importance of you know now more than ever, making
it very clear that one of our strategic goals is
to reduce that time of diagnosis. You know, you can
(14:57):
only imagine the stress that goes a long along with
endless doctor's appointments or multiple misdiagnoses. That's what we really
want to make sure across the foundation, across the nation
that we have our network of volunteers, our network of
Lucas advocates that are truly our boots on the ground
that are making sure that people don't feel feel overwhelmed
(15:18):
or feel isolated. We talked to so many folks regularly
who say when they were diagnosed they never met another
person living with lupus, or they don't know what lucas
is or how severe it really can can be and
attack your organs. So that's why people like Lenae and
other volunteers that are leading support groups across the country
(15:38):
are making sure that people are not alone to help
with that mental mental health piece of it, and really
make sure that people understand that we are here as
a foundation and as an army of LUCAS warriors and
supporters and advocates to be with them alongside their journey
through all of our programs and resources that we can
arm them with on their lupus journey.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Lennie, I wonder if you can talk to our listeners
and explain to them something that you would like them
to know about lupus, because so often we misinterpret or
we don't understand what someone like yourself is experiencing and
how it can impact everything you talk about, how you're
no longer able to work, and it can have it
(16:20):
can be tremendously painful, it can take so much energy
out of you that you can't even get out of that.
I mean, there's so many different aspects of lupus that
people don't always understand. So what would you like people
to know and understand about lupus.
Speaker 8 (16:35):
That's a great question.
Speaker 7 (16:37):
So one thing as a support group facilitator, one thing
that I always say in the emails that I sent
out and kind of ending our sessions is you know,
it's okay to not be okay because we just feel
I know a lot of women feel like they just
have to keep going, going, going, going going, and even
when you're feeling horrible, like yesterday was a really bad
(16:58):
day for me, I like, was an so much pain,
cannot even like I got out of the bed and
laid on the couch. So you know, sometimes it's just
doing what you can do and counting it as a win.
Like I always say to people, I'm like, even if
you just at least get out of the bed, take
a shower, if you have to lay down on the couch,
at least you got out of the bed, Like, count
that as a win for today you were able to
(17:19):
do something, and you know, breaking tasks down.
Speaker 8 (17:24):
Like I was just saying to someone I was talking
to earlier.
Speaker 7 (17:26):
I'm like, I have all these things I need to do,
like chores, you know in the house, you know, like
the things that you don't do every day, like the
dusting and all of that. And she was like, you
don't need to do all that. It will be there tomorrow.
So just knowing that your list, you may have your
list of things to do each day, but if you
don't get it done, it is okay, there is tomorrow.
And another thing is just asking for help, which is
(17:49):
hard to ask for help because I know for me,
I feel like I can just do everything, but actually
saying okay, I need help to do This not be
you know, needing help getting dressed or anything like that,
but it could be something simple as I need some
help with, you know, doing something around the house or
going somewhere. So asking for that help and just seeking
(18:12):
support if you feel that your family doesn't understand, because
that's one thing, like I have a very supportive family,
but they don't have lupus, and so being part of
a support group is so valuable. Or finding someone that
you can talk to that has lupus that understands because
lupus does affect each of us differently, but we do
all have lupus and we understand the toll that it
(18:34):
does take on on your life.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
Sean tell us about the Lupus Loop and Walk to
End Lupus Now that's happening on October eighteenth. What can
participants expect at this year's event?
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Sure?
Speaker 6 (18:48):
So, our Walk to n Lupus Now program is across
the Lupas Foundation of America right here in Philadelphia. We
are on our thirty fourth annual Lupis Loop and Walk
to Lupus Now Saturday, October eighteenth at the Navy Yard.
Super excited to be at that location. It's only our
second year at this new location. Last year we had
such a great positive response that we could not not return.
(19:12):
So that day people can expect, like that they said earlier,
an army of purple first and foremost with Lupus Warriors,
their caregivers, their family members, their loved ones, their colleagues,
our great corporate partners really all just coming out to
show their support of Lucis Warriors throughout the Pennsylvana and
Dela Orra Valley region. So we will have a band
that day. We have a great stage program where you'll
(19:34):
hear from our staff, you'll hear from people living with lupus.
We'll have different vendors and sponsors there to interact with
our participants. This year, we're really excited to welcome the
Philadelphia Union soccer team, some of their folks coming out
to engage with with families and have some different activities,
and they're going to bring their mascot out. So the
energy is just really great. I think everyone leaves their
(19:56):
really inspired to be part of community in PHILADELPA in
the Philadelphia area who so passionately want to give back
and so passionately want to help people living with lupus
everywhere and more importantly, also a community that wants to
raise funds for the Lupas Foundation of America and really
support our important work around research, education, advocacy, and supporting
(20:18):
those that really need it well.
Speaker 1 (20:20):
I have attended the Lupis Loop for many years, and
this is actually earlier in the year than I have
experienced in the past. I've been to Lupas loops where
it was dark as midnight, snowing, and yet people would
come out in the purple and dressed, often as superheroes.
I mean, the spirit of the Lupus Loop is just undeniable.
(20:45):
It's such an inspiring event to see that sea of purple. Leney,
why should people come out to this twenty twenty five
Philadelphia Lupus Loop and walk it in lupus Now?
Speaker 7 (20:56):
I think, like Sean said, just coming out and seeing
all of these people that are there for the same thing,
to raise awareness and to raise funds for lupus, especially
if you're affected by it.
Speaker 8 (21:09):
I talked to someone last year who was their first year.
Speaker 7 (21:11):
Coming and they just like broke down because they just
couldn't believe how many other people, you know, we're dealing
with what they were dealing with. So I say, you know,
if you are feeling like there's no one around that understands,
come out and you will see that there are so
many people. You'll be able to connect with others and
find support. Like Sean said, we have support groups, we
(21:32):
have so many resources, and those resources will be available
the day of. So I just say, come out and
you will be able to just see purple everywhere. And
it's just it's an amazing experience to come to and
you will find people, Like I said that you will
be able to connect with. There's a couple people that
I met, you know, last year, and been able to
(21:53):
connect with them throughout the year. So it's just it's
an amazing experience to come and see purple and be supported.
Speaker 1 (22:01):
It is a beautiful event. Sean. If people would like
to register for the Philadelphia loopis loop and walk to
end loops now on Saturday, October eighteenth, where do they
go to sign up for that and also to tap
into all the great resources and support that that's made
available by your organization.
Speaker 6 (22:20):
Yeah, everything you can find at loopus dot org. Slash
PDV that's our local region website for Pennsylvana Delaware Valley.
You go right to the event section. There you can
sign up for the loopis Loop as an individual, as
a team, you can just make a donation. If you
can't come out and join us that day. And our
event is a little bit unique. We have both a
(22:40):
run and walk option for the five k routes, so
if you're a runner, come out and join us. If
you'd rather walk with your family, we've got that option
for you as well. Fundraising is encouraged. It's not required,
but for people who do raise fifty dollars and above,
you'll get your Loopisloop event T shirt. And then for
our top fundraisers we call them our Trailblazers, who raise
(23:02):
one thousand dollars more and more, you get a fancy
metal We make a whole big deal when you arrive
and it's just a lot of excitement and energy that day.
And also on lubiscot org slash PDV you can find
all of our resources from our health education specialists who
can answer one on one non medical questions and help
connect you with other resources. We have our Lupus Connect program,
(23:25):
which is an online community where people can, at all
hours of the day, go on and post questions or
read about different topics if they're having a rough time
or if they're newly diagnosed, want to connect with other
people in an online community. We've got that and a
host of everything else right there on our website that
we also would love to share with you that day.
As Lena said, we'll be talking about our resources and
(23:46):
sharing all of that at the LUPAS Sloop on October
eighteenth as well.
Speaker 1 (23:49):
Fantastic Sean Triggs, Region of Director for the Pennsylvania Delaware
Valley Region at the LUPUS Foundation of America and Lenae
j a LUPUS Warrior volunteer, ambassador and work group facilitator.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
Again.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
The upcoming Philadelphia Loopus Loop and Walk to endloopis now
is happening at the Navy Yard on Saturday, October eighteenth.
See you there, Thanks so much for joining us.
Speaker 8 (24:11):
Are you hearing me?
Speaker 1 (24:30):
On October first, I was privileged to mc Women Against
abus's eighteenth annual Eyepledge campaign at City Hall to kick
off Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event featured of press
conference and community rally and focused on this year's theme Hope,
a call to raise awareness, support survivors, and cultivate a
safer future for Philadelphia. Here's an excerpt of the final
(24:53):
moments of that event. At this point, I'd like to
take a moment to pay tribute to someone that's been
lost to violence. My husband's beloved cousin, Cynthia Avilis, was
killed by her husband in a murder suicide.
Speaker 9 (25:10):
Each year, and this was actually a couple of days ago.
Speaker 1 (25:13):
Her family gathers together to remember a beautiful soul whose
life was tragically ended by domestic violence in twenty seventeen.
She was twenty seven years old. Much like many people
in those situations, she was isolated from her family and friends.
Her husband took her away from Philadelphia down to Florida,
(25:36):
and that's where it happened.
Speaker 9 (25:37):
She was all by herself alone. But that's what we're
here to talk.
Speaker 1 (25:41):
About, because nobody can or has to be alone. Because
that's what I pledge is all about. She and countless
souls are lost, and that's why we do what we do,
why we make this pledge to end relationship violets. We're
now ready to close out today's event with a group
(26:04):
preedge recitation that will be joined by members of city Council.
Speaker 9 (26:10):
So I'd like to ask all of today's.
Speaker 1 (26:12):
Speakers and any elected officials and attendance to please join
us on stage so we can recite this pledge together.
We ask you to raise your voice with us in
the language of your choice as we recite together.
Speaker 9 (26:32):
Let's raise our voices together.
Speaker 10 (26:35):
I pledge to take action as an advocate for healthy relationships.
I will believe survivors a relationship abuse and amplify the
voices of those who have been silenced. I will actively
work against oppression and commit to be part of the
(26:57):
change needed to create a community that is safe and
just for every person.
Speaker 9 (27:05):
Thank you for joining us today.
Speaker 1 (27:08):
We encourage you to sign the pledge before you leave
to symbolize your support in the movement to end domestic violence.
Speaker 9 (27:16):
Thank you for being here today. Thank you for taking
the pledge.
Speaker 1 (27:19):
Thank you for committing to the hope that someday we
can end domestic violence.
Speaker 11 (27:26):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
You can listen to all of today's interviews by going
to our station website and typing in keyword Community. You
can also listen on the iHeartRadio app ye Words Philadelphia
Community Podcast. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram at Lorraine.
I'm Lorraine Ballard Morrow, and I stand for service to
our community and media that empowers what will you stand
for You've been listening to insight and thank you
Good morning. You're listening to Insight, a show about empowering
our community. I'm Lorraine Ballad. Tomorrow we're going to talk
about loopus, a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide,
but especially women of color. And we'll tell you about
an upcoming Philadelphia loop. And we'll tell you about the
upcoming Philadelphia Loopus loop and walk to end Loopus. Finally,
(00:20):
we'll share an excerpt from Women Against Abuse's I Pledge
event at City Hall to kick off Domestic Violence Prevention Month.
But first, let's talk about one of the most important
events supporting black businesses in the.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
Region, Regina Hairston, President CEO the African American Chamber of
Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.
Speaker 1 (00:39):
Well, we are joined by Regina, who is the head
of the African American Chamber of Commerce. Under her leadership,
the Chamber continues to advocate for black owned businesses and
entrepreneurs across the region, providing resources, visibility, and opportunities to
grow and thrive. This year, the organization is proud to
host its thirty second annual a dinner and award ceremony Wednesday,
(01:02):
October eighth from six to nine pm at the Bellevue Hotel.
The evening will honor distinguished leaders and we're so excited.
Thank you, Regina for joining us. For those who may
not be familiar, can you share the mission of the
African American Chamber of Commerce and how it serves the
black business community in Philadelphia?
Speaker 3 (01:22):
Absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (01:23):
The African American Chamber of Commerce was founded thirty two
years ago in nineteen ninety three as a response to
a legal challenge by black contractors not getting city work.
Speaker 3 (01:34):
So they felt they were being discriminated against as it
relates to city.
Speaker 2 (01:38):
Contracts, and so from that, the African American Chamber of
Commerce was stood up to support black businesses to ensure
that they have advocacy, advocacy to opportunities, advocacy to legislation,
and advocacy to regulations that are going to allow them
to grow and thrive in our region.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Regina, there are so many tools and resources that the
African American Chamber provides. Can you give us a quick
idea of what those tools and resources are?
Speaker 3 (02:10):
Absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
First and foremost, it's our advocacy be ensure that any
barriers that businesses are facing, that we help remove those
by advocating to our elected officials and to our corporate
partners to ensure those barriers have been removed. We provide
technical assistance or business development as we like to call it.
(02:31):
So if businesses need help scaling their business, we connect
them to the.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
Resources to scale.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
So let's say they need assistance with access to capital,
we have banking partners to find the perfect banking solution
for that business to help.
Speaker 3 (02:47):
Them access capital.
Speaker 2 (02:48):
And not just access at a capital, but making sure
that capital is affordable.
Speaker 1 (02:53):
The Chamber is celebrating it's thirty second annual Dinner and
Awards ceremony on the eighth. What makes this year celebration special?
Speaker 2 (03:01):
So there are a lot of things that make our
celebrations special, but I will say this year we are
honoring Congressman Dwight Evans. He is the Vanguard Awardie. And
why is that special Because in nineteen ninety three, when
Bruce Crawley started the Chamber, he went to Congressman Evans,
then State Appropriations chairman, and said the Chamber.
Speaker 3 (03:25):
Needs a budget.
Speaker 2 (03:26):
Appropriation needs funding to start the Chamber, and Congressman Evans
appropriated seventy five thousand dollars to Bruce Crawley and the
founders to stand up the African American Chamber of Commerce,
and we have been advocating for black businesses ensuring that
they have access to opportunities since Congressman Evans made that
(03:48):
investment in the Chamber so long ago.
Speaker 3 (03:51):
So we are so excited to honor him.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
It's wonderful to be able to give Congressman Dwight Evans
his roses because he has done so much for our community. Now,
this year's honorees also include the Philadelphia seventy six Ers,
b nceep, IMC Construction, and Pure Fuel. What do these
organizations in business represent about the spirit of leadership and
(04:13):
innovation in our community?
Speaker 3 (04:15):
Absolutely so no one can do it alone.
Speaker 2 (04:17):
The African American Chamber of Commerce looks to its partners
to ensure that we are moving black business forward, and
so when we talk about all of the honorees, they
have played a significant.
Speaker 3 (04:28):
Role in doing so.
Speaker 2 (04:30):
The Philadelphia seventy six Ers are looking to build a
new stadium in South Philadelphia. When you talk about opportunities
for black businesses, that is the type of opportunities we
look to connect our businesses to a once in a
lifetime billion dollar project that is going to allow our
businesses to really grow and throve. The Philadelphia seventy six
(04:52):
Ers were a partner in this. They came to us
and said, we want to make sure that black businesses
are connected to this project. Not only the they say,
we want to make sure that they're connected to it.
They said, African American Chamber of Commerce, we want you
to lead the way ensuring that they are ready when.
Speaker 3 (05:07):
The opportunity comes.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So they commissioned us to do a study around black
concessionaires in the city of Philadelphia, seeing what the landscape is,
seeing who was available, and making sure that by twenty
thirty one issue when the stadium is built, that those
concessionaires cannot only come into the opportunity come into the stadium,
(05:31):
but they can be sustainable and last because we will
have put in the guard rails in place to make
sure that they not only have an opportunity, but they thrive.
Speaker 1 (05:41):
So important beyond the dinner. The Chamber has recently launched
a new back office program for solopreneurs and open a
brand new office space a twentieth end market. How will
these initiatives support small business owners and fuel regional growth?
Speaker 2 (05:57):
So when you think about black businesses and the innovation
and the services they provide, they do it on a
smaller scale than their peers. Ninety four percent of black
businesses do not have employees. Think about that. Of all
the black businesses that we have, ninety four percent don't
have employees. And so what we're looking to do with
(06:17):
our back office support is to change that statistic.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
We are going to grow our black businesses.
Speaker 2 (06:23):
That means more opportunities, more jobs for the local economy.
That means more just growth and general for in general
for our economic development here in the region. And so
the Back office Hub will provide that back office support,
which is your HR, your legal, your marketing, and your accounting.
That will help these businesses grow by having the right
(06:45):
professional services to navigate that for them.
Speaker 3 (06:49):
And we are.
Speaker 2 (06:49):
Providing that at the African American Chamber of Commerce.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
Wow, that is so innovative. That is a great, great
idea and great campaign. Finally, how can business owners, community
and supporters get involved with the Chamber, whether through membership,
attending events like the upcoming awards ceremony, or supporting your programs?
Speaker 2 (07:08):
Absolutely so they can go to our website at aachamber
dot com that's aachamber dot com. They can follow us
on social media and reach out to us and we
will help get them plugged into the Chamber. And we
also are looking forward to having you as our MC
on October eighth as well.
Speaker 1 (07:25):
I'm so excited to be an MC. Regina Harriston, President
and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce. Under
her leadership, the Chamber continues to advocate for black owned
businesses and entrepreneurs across the region, offering resources, visibility, and
opportunities to grow and thrive.
Speaker 3 (07:43):
Thank you so much, thank you.
Speaker 4 (07:51):
Every child deserves a fair shot at a bright future,
no matter where they grow up. That's why Save the
Children head Start in minute's head start programs in rural America.
Head Start reaches kids from birth to age five, when
ninety percent of brain development occurs. It provides early learning,
(08:11):
nutritious meals, health checkups, and parenting support to the families
who need it most. We level the playing field early,
helping children start school strong, stay strong, and unlock their
full potential because education is the best path out of poverty.
Learn more at Savethechildren dot org.
Speaker 1 (08:34):
Slash Headstart want to make an impact and grow your career.
Join apm's job fare October twenty second, from ten am
to three pm at seven thirty West Burke Street in Philadelphia.
We're hiring in child welfare, foster care, early childhood education,
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benefits medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and generous paid time off.
(08:56):
Be part of something bigger. Your work here truly changes lives.
Don't miss this chance to step into a career that matters.
For more information, visit apmphila dot org.
Speaker 5 (09:06):
I'm the threat that's already inside the house, in the closet,
under the bed, in the car. But I don't want
your money or your TV. I can't be scared away
or negotiated with. I'm patient and quiet. I don't sleep.
(09:33):
You can't call the cops on me. You can't even
see me. I'm the threat of family fire, and as
long as your guns aren't stored securely, I'll be there
protect your family, secure all your guns. Learn how to
make your home safer at endfamilyfire dot org. That's endfamilyfire
(09:59):
dot org. A public service announcement brought to you by
Brady and the AD Council.
Speaker 1 (10:07):
You're listening to insight Today we're talking about lupus, a
chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions worldwide. Joining us are
Sean Triggs, Regional director for the Pennsylvania Delaware Valley Region
at the Lupas Foundation of America, and Lenae j a
Lupus warrior, volunteer, ambassador and support group facilitator. We'll be
(10:31):
talking about local resources, the impact of lupas, and the
upcoming Philadelphia Lupus Loop and Walk to end lupis now
happening at the Navy Yard Saturday, October eighteenth. Sean and Lenay,
thank you so much for joining us, and I'm going.
Speaker 3 (10:45):
To start with you.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Can you tell us more about what lupas is? I
think people have heard the word but may not understand
exactly what it is.
Speaker 6 (10:55):
Sure, absolutely, thanks lorain So. Lupas is an autoimmune disease
effects everybody quite differently. Predominantly lupas effects women. Ninety percent
of people living with lupus are women, and then women
of color are two to three times more likely to
develop lupus. So extremely important to have our name as
the Lupas Foundation of America out there in our work
(11:17):
here in the Philadelphia area, making sure that we're serving
those populations that really need us most. But Lenae can
really speak a little bit more to that firsthand experience
and a little bit more to symptoms and you know,
day to day life and all that, as it's so
varying from person to person.
Speaker 1 (11:34):
Absolutely, Linee as both a lupis warrior and a volunteer ambassador.
Can you share a little bit about your personal journey
with lupus and also what inspired you to take on
this advocacy role. So what is lupas? What impact has
it had on you your life?
Speaker 7 (11:49):
Lupas has definitely impacted my life in many ways. I
mean even daily life of lupus is different each and
every day. So, like Sean said, lucas does affect women
and women of color, which I am much more than
you know every other group. Lupus takes about the average
of six years to diagnose. Still, even with all of
(12:11):
the advances that we've had, still does take time because
lupus mimics so many other diseases and there's just a
lot of misdiagnosis before getting the proper diagnosis. And so
for me, it actually took almost ten years to get
my diagnosis, which is you know, not the average. There's
people who have gotten their diagnosis immediately, but it took
(12:31):
much longer for me. Lupis affects any organ at any
time and can even change over time.
Speaker 8 (12:38):
Which organs have been affected.
Speaker 7 (12:39):
So originally for me it was my heart and lungs,
and now it's kind of progressed. I say, like every
year it's something different, but it has just it's in
fact my life.
Speaker 8 (12:51):
I can no longer work because of my lupis.
Speaker 7 (12:53):
But as a result of that, I am able to
advocate and volunteer with the Foundation, which has been so
helpful for me to have, you know, still a fulfilling life,
you know, being able to give back. And I decided,
you know, to become involved with the foundation because when
I got diagnosed, I didn't know anybody with lupus.
Speaker 8 (13:13):
I didn't even know what lupus was.
Speaker 7 (13:15):
And so I always say, like, I don't want anyone
to feel that way, so I.
Speaker 8 (13:20):
Just I advocate every day.
Speaker 7 (13:22):
Purple has always been my favorite color, and I literally
wear purple every day.
Speaker 8 (13:26):
My office is now.
Speaker 7 (13:27):
Purple, so I wear purple, and that's you know, kind
of my way to always, you know, kind of have
that armor on of being.
Speaker 8 (13:35):
A lupus warrior. So yeah, so I just I enjoy being.
Speaker 7 (13:39):
Able to help and advocate anyway, going to d C,
doing events like this, and you know, the Loop is
one of our biggest events, and just being able to
see see of purple is just amazing.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
Well, it just happens that my hair is purple this
month in solidarity with the lupis and the loopis Loop
and Seanna, I wonder just to talk a little bit
more about, say a person like Linee. She mentioned how
long it takes for a diagnosis, and that's not uncommon.
Hers was a little longer than normal, but it's still
often very misdiagnosed. And then you add on top of that,
(14:16):
you layer on top of that health disparities that exist.
So that's another factor. I wonder if you can talk
a bit more about not only the physical impact of lupus,
but also the emotional Lupus can have a very deep
and lasting emotional impact right on an individual who's living
(14:36):
with it.
Speaker 6 (14:37):
Yeah. Absolutely, it does go beyond just the physical toll
and effects that Renee discussed. You know, mental health of
course goes hand at hand with physical health, like with
so many chronic illnesses, which is why we really see
the importance of you know now more than ever, making
it very clear that one of our strategic goals is
to reduce that time of diagnosis. You know, you can
(14:57):
only imagine the stress that goes a long along with
endless doctor's appointments or multiple misdiagnoses. That's what we really
want to make sure across the foundation, across the nation
that we have our network of volunteers, our network of
Lucas advocates that are truly our boots on the ground
that are making sure that people don't feel feel overwhelmed
(15:18):
or feel isolated. We talked to so many folks regularly
who say when they were diagnosed they never met another
person living with lupus, or they don't know what lucas
is or how severe it really can can be and
attack your organs. So that's why people like Lenae and
other volunteers that are leading support groups across the country
(15:38):
are making sure that people are not alone to help
with that mental mental health piece of it, and really
make sure that people understand that we are here as
a foundation and as an army of LUCAS warriors and
supporters and advocates to be with them alongside their journey
through all of our programs and resources that we can
arm them with on their lupus journey.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Lennie, I wonder if you can talk to our listeners
and explain to them something that you would like them
to know about lupus, because so often we misinterpret or
we don't understand what someone like yourself is experiencing and
how it can impact everything you talk about, how you're
no longer able to work, and it can have it
(16:20):
can be tremendously painful, it can take so much energy
out of you that you can't even get out of that.
I mean, there's so many different aspects of lupus that
people don't always understand. So what would you like people
to know and understand about lupus.
Speaker 8 (16:35):
That's a great question.
Speaker 7 (16:37):
So one thing as a support group facilitator, one thing
that I always say in the emails that I sent
out and kind of ending our sessions is you know,
it's okay to not be okay because we just feel
I know a lot of women feel like they just
have to keep going, going, going, going going, and even
when you're feeling horrible, like yesterday was a really bad
(16:58):
day for me, I like, was an so much pain,
cannot even like I got out of the bed and
laid on the couch. So you know, sometimes it's just
doing what you can do and counting it as a win.
Like I always say to people, I'm like, even if
you just at least get out of the bed, take
a shower, if you have to lay down on the couch,
at least you got out of the bed, Like, count
that as a win for today you were able to
(17:19):
do something, and you know, breaking tasks down.
Speaker 8 (17:24):
Like I was just saying to someone I was talking
to earlier.
Speaker 7 (17:26):
I'm like, I have all these things I need to do,
like chores, you know in the house, you know, like
the things that you don't do every day, like the
dusting and all of that. And she was like, you
don't need to do all that. It will be there tomorrow.
So just knowing that your list, you may have your
list of things to do each day, but if you
don't get it done, it is okay, there is tomorrow.
And another thing is just asking for help, which is
(17:49):
hard to ask for help because I know for me,
I feel like I can just do everything, but actually
saying okay, I need help to do This not be
you know, needing help getting dressed or anything like that,
but it could be something simple as I need some
help with, you know, doing something around the house or
going somewhere. So asking for that help and just seeking
(18:12):
support if you feel that your family doesn't understand, because
that's one thing, like I have a very supportive family,
but they don't have lupus, and so being part of
a support group is so valuable. Or finding someone that
you can talk to that has lupus that understands because
lupus does affect each of us differently, but we do
all have lupus and we understand the toll that it
(18:34):
does take on on your life.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
Sean tell us about the Lupus Loop and Walk to
End Lupus Now that's happening on October eighteenth. What can
participants expect at this year's event?
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Sure?
Speaker 6 (18:48):
So, our Walk to n Lupus Now program is across
the Lupas Foundation of America right here in Philadelphia. We
are on our thirty fourth annual Lupis Loop and Walk
to Lupus Now Saturday, October eighteenth at the Navy Yard.
Super excited to be at that location. It's only our
second year at this new location. Last year we had
such a great positive response that we could not not return.
(19:12):
So that day people can expect, like that they said earlier,
an army of purple first and foremost with Lupus Warriors,
their caregivers, their family members, their loved ones, their colleagues,
our great corporate partners really all just coming out to
show their support of Lucis Warriors throughout the Pennsylvana and
Dela Orra Valley region. So we will have a band
that day. We have a great stage program where you'll
(19:34):
hear from our staff, you'll hear from people living with lupus.
We'll have different vendors and sponsors there to interact with
our participants. This year, we're really excited to welcome the
Philadelphia Union soccer team, some of their folks coming out
to engage with with families and have some different activities,
and they're going to bring their mascot out. So the
energy is just really great. I think everyone leaves their
(19:56):
really inspired to be part of community in PHILADELPA in
the Philadelphia area who so passionately want to give back
and so passionately want to help people living with lupus
everywhere and more importantly, also a community that wants to
raise funds for the Lupas Foundation of America and really
support our important work around research, education, advocacy, and supporting
(20:18):
those that really need it well.
Speaker 1 (20:20):
I have attended the Lupis Loop for many years, and
this is actually earlier in the year than I have
experienced in the past. I've been to Lupas loops where
it was dark as midnight, snowing, and yet people would
come out in the purple and dressed, often as superheroes.
I mean, the spirit of the Lupus Loop is just undeniable.
(20:45):
It's such an inspiring event to see that sea of purple. Leney,
why should people come out to this twenty twenty five
Philadelphia Lupus Loop and walk it in lupus Now?
Speaker 7 (20:56):
I think, like Sean said, just coming out and seeing
all of these people that are there for the same thing,
to raise awareness and to raise funds for lupus, especially
if you're affected by it.
Speaker 8 (21:09):
I talked to someone last year who was their first year.
Speaker 7 (21:11):
Coming and they just like broke down because they just
couldn't believe how many other people, you know, we're dealing
with what they were dealing with. So I say, you know,
if you are feeling like there's no one around that understands,
come out and you will see that there are so
many people. You'll be able to connect with others and
find support. Like Sean said, we have support groups, we
(21:32):
have so many resources, and those resources will be available
the day of. So I just say, come out and
you will be able to just see purple everywhere. And
it's just it's an amazing experience to come to and
you will find people, Like I said that you will
be able to connect with. There's a couple people that
I met, you know, last year, and been able to
(21:53):
connect with them throughout the year. So it's just it's
an amazing experience to come and see purple and be supported.
Speaker 1 (22:01):
It is a beautiful event. Sean. If people would like
to register for the Philadelphia loopis loop and walk to
end loops now on Saturday, October eighteenth, where do they
go to sign up for that and also to tap
into all the great resources and support that that's made
available by your organization.
Speaker 6 (22:20):
Yeah, everything you can find at loopus dot org. Slash
PDV that's our local region website for Pennsylvana Delaware Valley.
You go right to the event section. There you can
sign up for the loopis Loop as an individual, as
a team, you can just make a donation. If you
can't come out and join us that day. And our
event is a little bit unique. We have both a
(22:40):
run and walk option for the five k routes, so
if you're a runner, come out and join us. If
you'd rather walk with your family, we've got that option
for you as well. Fundraising is encouraged. It's not required,
but for people who do raise fifty dollars and above,
you'll get your Loopisloop event T shirt. And then for
our top fundraisers we call them our Trailblazers, who raise
(23:02):
one thousand dollars more and more, you get a fancy
metal We make a whole big deal when you arrive
and it's just a lot of excitement and energy that day.
And also on lubiscot org slash PDV you can find
all of our resources from our health education specialists who
can answer one on one non medical questions and help
connect you with other resources. We have our Lupus Connect program,
(23:25):
which is an online community where people can, at all
hours of the day, go on and post questions or
read about different topics if they're having a rough time
or if they're newly diagnosed, want to connect with other
people in an online community. We've got that and a
host of everything else right there on our website that
we also would love to share with you that day.
As Lena said, we'll be talking about our resources and
(23:46):
sharing all of that at the LUPAS Sloop on October
eighteenth as well.
Speaker 1 (23:49):
Fantastic Sean Triggs, Region of Director for the Pennsylvania Delaware
Valley Region at the LUPUS Foundation of America and Lenae
j a LUPUS Warrior volunteer, ambassador and work group facilitator.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
Again.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
The upcoming Philadelphia Loopus Loop and Walk to endloopis now
is happening at the Navy Yard on Saturday, October eighteenth.
See you there, Thanks so much for joining us.
Speaker 8 (24:11):
Are you hearing me?
Speaker 1 (24:30):
On October first, I was privileged to mc Women Against
abus's eighteenth annual Eyepledge campaign at City Hall to kick
off Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event featured of press
conference and community rally and focused on this year's theme Hope,
a call to raise awareness, support survivors, and cultivate a
safer future for Philadelphia. Here's an excerpt of the final
(24:53):
moments of that event. At this point, I'd like to
take a moment to pay tribute to someone that's been
lost to violence. My husband's beloved cousin, Cynthia Avilis, was
killed by her husband in a murder suicide.
Speaker 9 (25:10):
Each year, and this was actually a couple of days ago.
Speaker 1 (25:13):
Her family gathers together to remember a beautiful soul whose
life was tragically ended by domestic violence in twenty seventeen.
She was twenty seven years old. Much like many people
in those situations, she was isolated from her family and friends.
Her husband took her away from Philadelphia down to Florida,
(25:36):
and that's where it happened.
Speaker 9 (25:37):
She was all by herself alone. But that's what we're
here to talk.
Speaker 1 (25:41):
About, because nobody can or has to be alone. Because
that's what I pledge is all about. She and countless
souls are lost, and that's why we do what we do,
why we make this pledge to end relationship violets. We're
now ready to close out today's event with a group
(26:04):
preedge recitation that will be joined by members of city Council.
Speaker 9 (26:10):
So I'd like to ask all of today's.
Speaker 1 (26:12):
Speakers and any elected officials and attendance to please join
us on stage so we can recite this pledge together.
We ask you to raise your voice with us in
the language of your choice as we recite together.
Speaker 9 (26:32):
Let's raise our voices together.
Speaker 10 (26:35):
I pledge to take action as an advocate for healthy relationships.
I will believe survivors a relationship abuse and amplify the
voices of those who have been silenced. I will actively
work against oppression and commit to be part of the
(26:57):
change needed to create a community that is safe and
just for every person.
Speaker 9 (27:05):
Thank you for joining us today.
Speaker 1 (27:08):
We encourage you to sign the pledge before you leave
to symbolize your support in the movement to end domestic violence.
Speaker 9 (27:16):
Thank you for being here today. Thank you for taking
the pledge.
Speaker 1 (27:19):
Thank you for committing to the hope that someday we
can end domestic violence.
Speaker 11 (27:26):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
You can listen to all of today's interviews by going
to our station website and typing in keyword Community. You
can also listen on the iHeartRadio app ye Words Philadelphia
Community Podcast. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram at Lorraine.
I'm Lorraine Ballard Morrow, and I stand for service to
our community and media that empowers what will you stand
for You've been listening to insight and thank you
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Cardiac Cowboys
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.