KMOJCast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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