The Briefing Room
You've heard NEXT2.0 but here you can see how the host(s) REALLY feel; Live, unedited and uncut from Marcus' "Briefing Room." Tap in to what's happening in the 2024 election with a touch of niche' conversations on the side. Listen, learn, share, but most of all SUBSCRIBE. https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-briefing-room--5656912/support
Episodes
July 4, 2025 • 13 mins
In this episode of NEXT2.0, Justice Sonia Sotomayor's recent dissenting court ruling has sparked significant reflection this 4th of July season. Her impassioned stance challenges us to reconsider fundamental principles of equality and justice, resonating deeply in today's charged political climate. As we celebrate our nation's independence, Sotomayor's dissent serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle to uphold the idea...
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June 27, 2025 • 58 mins
Join Marcus Atkinson on the latest episode of NEXT2.0 as community voices converge to discuss President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran’s nuclear facility, as others sound off on social media about a fight that broke out among teenagers at an outdoor movie night. From insightful perspectives on current affairs to personal reflections, please tune in to hear diverse opinions shaping our communities today. Don't miss this engaging conv...
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June 20, 2025 • 34 mins
Boys II Men is a program developed by Anthony McGowan in Erie, Pennsylvania, focused on fostering brotherhood among young men. Mr. McGowan aims to help these young men avoid becoming statistics related to gang involvement and to treat one another like family. The program offers various resources, teaching valuable skills such as how to perform oil changes, play football, and box. These resources offer young men the opportunity to c...
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June 20, 2025 • 26 mins
Existential hyperpartisanship poses a critical challenge to American democracy, fueling deep divisions and undermining essential democratic values. As political polarization intensifies, bipartisan cooperation becomes increasingly elusive, hindering progress on crucial issues. This hyperpartisanship not only erodes trust in institutions but also perpetuates a cycle of gridlock that stifles meaningful legislative action. To safeguar...
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June 13, 2025 • 26 mins
In this inspiring episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Erie native Paul Flemmings to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the My Brother’s Keeper Scholarship, co-founded by Flemmings and sponsored by the Uplift Foundation.The conversation traces the origins of the scholarship—rooted in a deep commitment to uplift young Black men through education and community support—and explores why Paul continues to return to Er...
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June 6, 2025 • 46 mins
In this heartfelt and timely episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Dr. Baker of Impact E.R.I.E. to explore the evolving and diverse experiences of fatherhood. From the emotional to the practical, Dr. Baker shares insights from his work in fatherhood research and community leadership, emphasizing the importance of supporting men as they strive to become better fathers, husbands, and leaders.Together, they discuss ...
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May 30, 2025 • 35 mins
In this week's episode of NEXT on WQLN, Marcus Atkinson sits down with County Councilman Rock Copeland to discuss the Democratic party's endorsement of Daria Devlin for Mayor of Erie, challenging incumbent Mayor Joe Schember. Copeland shares insights into the implications of this endorsement on Erie's political landscape, highlighting key issues and the party's strategy in the lead-up to the upcoming elections. Tune in as they expl...
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May 23, 2025 • 60 mins
In this fresh episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by intern Aaron Cronin to unpack the recent Erie County primary elections. From the surprising results of the mayoral race—featuring Daria Devlin—to shifts in the city council landscape, the team dives into the local political developments that could shape Erie's future.They highlight the notably civil tone of Erie's city races, a stark contrast ...
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May 18, 2025 • 63 mins
Marc Blount and Vanessa Belen sit down with City Council Candidate Jasmine Flores.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-briefing-room--5656912/support.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-briefing-room--5656912/support.
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May 16, 2025 • 36 mins
Erie’s recent DEI battles between its county government, county council, mayor, and black and brown community made national headlines via The Washington Post. In a time when newly elected President Trump has declared DEI programs anathema, how will ERIE respond? We’re joined by former Erie County Council President Carl Anderson, who was sitting at the epicenter of this fact at the time. He gives us the backstory and a first-hand pe...
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May 12, 2025 • 15 mins
There is no evidence that Brittney Griner has undergone a gender transition or identifies as a man. She is an openly lesbian woman who has consistently used she/her pronouns and has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Griner has spoken candidly about her experiences with gender expression and societal perceptions, but she has never identified as transgender or indicated any intention to transition. But in light of a recent...
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May 9, 2025 • 62 mins
In this timely and challenging episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Rev. Angela Denker—Lutheran pastor, journalist, and author of the new book Disciples of White Jesus: The Radicalization of American Boyhood. Together, they explore the unsettling trend of radicalization among young white men in America, and the role that right-wing Christianity, online influencers, and cultural isolation have played in shaping t...
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May 2, 2025 • 50 mins
Today, we explore the contentious topic of partisan gerrymandering and its profound impact on our electoral system. Host Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Carol Kuniholm, Fair Districts PA's co-founder, expert on fair redistricting, and their NW PA Representative, Michael Bucell. They both bring extensive knowledge and advocacy to shed light on the real-world consequences of gerrymandering. It can skew representatio...
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April 25, 2025 • 56 mins
In this episode Chuck Cammarata chats with Mayor Joe Schember, running for a third term and a chance to extend his legacy of hope and service. When Joe originally ran for mayor he made it known that he wanted to rid the city of racism and make Erie a more welcoming city. He also inherited a city that was deeply in debt, had a significant urban blight problem, and a self esteem deficit.In his seven years as mayor the city has, among...
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April 18, 2025 • 51 mins
Would America's reaction to specific presidential actions differ if they were attributed to former President Obama rather than President Trump? The question of white (male) privilege, tolerance, and public perception weighs heavily on how political actions are judged in the public eye, shaping ongoing debates about accountability and political standards. As politically engaged citizens, it's up to each of us to shape this perceptio...
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April 11, 2025 • 57 mins
One Hundred Black Men began in 1963 to organize African American men to explore ways to improve conditions in Black communities. The national organization, The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., was established on October 2, 1986. The organization's objectives are focused on mentorship, leadership development, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment. Join JES Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson, ...
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March 28, 2025 • 43 mins
In this insightful episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Dr. Tyler Titus, president of the Erie School Board and a dedicated advocate for youth in the foster system. As a full-time therapist and former director of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth, Dr. Titus has spent their career fighting for the well-being of the most vulnerable members of the community.The conversation begins with a reflection on a ...
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March 21, 2025 • 57 mins
In this special episode of NEXT 2.0, co-host Chuck Cammarata and Marc Blount sit down with Daria Devlin, lifelong Erie resident and candidate for Mayor of Erie, Pennsylvania. With a deep commitment to health, education, and economic equity, Daria shares her vision for the city's future and the transformative projects she has championed over the years.From leading a coalition that secured $14M for Erie’s Public Schools to overseeing...
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March 14, 2025 • 59 mins
In this thought-provoking episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata sit down with Amanda Tyler, lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism, and Professor Jeff Bloodworth, an expert in modern American political history and genocide studies, to define and discuss the rise of the Christian nationalist movement. Together, they examine the movement’s origins, its impact on communities, and misinfo...
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March 7, 2025 • 50 mins
In this heartfelt episode of NEXT 2.0, special guest host Daryl Craig—better known as Brother D—leads a powerful conversation honoring the life and legacy of Sister Lou, one of Erie’s most influential and respected community figures.Joined by friends and family, Brother D explores the profound impact Sister Lou had on the streets of Erie, the lives she touched, and the community she built through unwavering determination and prayer...
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