On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell is joined by Jay Haapala of AARP Minnesota to discuss the growing threat of scams and fraud impacting Minnesotans. Haapala explains how scammers impersonate trusted figures such as family members, government agencies, banks, faith leaders, tech support, and even immigration enforcement to trigger fear or urgency and override good judgment. He breaks down why emotional manipulation is central to these schemes and how technology is used to make scams more convincing and costly. The conversation closes with practical advice on slowing down, verifying information, talking to trusted people, and using resources like the AARP Fraud Watch Network to stay protected. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell welcomes Tikonwaun (Tiki) Blackamore from Minneapolis Public Schools to highlight Black History Month and the importance of community engagement. Tiki shares why celebrating Black history matters and how MPS creates meaningful opportunities for students, families, and the broader community to connect, learn, and reflect. The conversation spotlights public events such as the “Exhaling” art exhibit, the popular “Cooking with Soul” series, and music and wellness-centered programs throughout February. Tiki also highlights family-focused events like National African American Family Involvement Day and encourages listeners to explore the full calendar of activities on the MPS website.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings welcomes Stephanie Davies-Larson and Grace Mobosi-Enwesi from Minneapolis Public Schools to spotlight National Magnet School Month. The conversation explores what makes magnet schools unique and how MPS offers theme-based learning in fine arts, global studies and humanities, STEM/STEAM, Montessori, and Spanish dual language programs. The guests share examples of innovative learning happening at magnet schools across the district and discuss how community partnerships enhance real-world learning experiences. They also provide guidance on school tours, upcoming deadlines, and where families can go to learn more about magnet school options at MPS. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings talk with Jason Marque Sole, a formerly incarcerated abolitionist, criminal justice educator, and adjunct professor at Hamline University. Sole reflects on being recently pardoned and what that moment means personally and for broader conversations about justice and accountability in Minnesota. He discusses the importance of staying informed about what is happening in the state and how community-based responses to harm can create real change. The conversation also highlights the Humanize My Hoodie Movement and how it uplifts youth by challenging harmful perceptions and fostering dignity, connection, and healing in the Twin Cities and beyond. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with educator, film producer, and author Derek Francis about Minnesota’s often-overlooked school integration story. Francis discusses his new children’s book, Our First Bus Ride, which commemorates the 55th anniversary of Minneapolis’ Hale–Field elementary school integration and is told through the eyes of two second graders experiencing change for the first time. He explains how the book and his film Separate Not Equal: Minnesota Integration Story make complex history accessible for young readers, families, and educators. The conversation also highlights upcoming community events, conversations with integration alumni, and the ongoing importance of building inclusive, culturally responsive schools today. 

Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcomed Christine Tucci Osorio, Superintendent of School District 622, for a “Chat with Christine” focused on the current challenges facing the school community. Osorio discusses how ICE activity and broader community stressors are impacting students, families, and staff across the district. She outlines the district’s evolving response, emphasizing safety, student learning, family outreach, vigilance, and accommodations to meet changing needs. Osorio closes with a call for collective support of young people, highlighting the importance of predictable routines, opportunities for joy, and healthy stress management. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chantel Sings talks with Rose McGee, President and Founder of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie®, about the organization’s Annual MLK Holiday Weekend of Service. Rose explains how this year’s event includes a food and supplies drive for the PRISM Food Shelf and reflects a deeper focus on protecting constitutional rights and community freedom during challenging times. She shares the powerful origin story of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, which began after the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, and why sweet potato pie is considered a sacred symbol of care and connection in Black culture. The conversation highlights how service, storytelling, and shared meals can heal, unite, and strengthen communities while honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty about the joint effort between the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office to collect and preserve evidence in the killing of Renee Nicole Good. Moriarty explains the decision to move forward after the FBI rescinded its cooperation agreement with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability. She discusses the public evidence submission portal, how evidence is reviewed, and why collecting as much information as possible is critical to building a complete case file. Moriarty also outlines the careful process prosecutors use when determining whether charges can be brought and the challenges involved in pursuing justice in high-profile cases.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings sit down with Dr. Phillip S. Porter, MBA—visionary leader, author, wealth educator, and AI-enhanced book development coach. Dr. Porter explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping small businesses, entrepreneurship, authorship, and leadership, and shares how to adopt a mindset that turns AI into a powerful tool rather than a threat. He also discusses insights from his books 12 Paths to Purpose and Profit Powered Partnerships, focusing on purpose-driven success, clarity, and building profitable, aligned partnerships.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings welcome Jacqueline (Jacki) Wincek, Physical Education teacher at Roosevelt High School and 2025 Minnesota State Assistant Coach of the Year. Jacki shares how unified and adapted sports at Minneapolis Public Schools create inclusive opportunities for students of all abilities. She discusses Roosevelt High School’s nationally recognized Unified sports program, honored by Special Olympics as the first school in Minneapolis to receive this distinction. Jacki also reflects on her passion for coaching, her many roles at Roosevelt, and the lasting impact these programs have on students, families, and the school community.