KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Rose McGee joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie® and how storytelling continues to bring people together across cultures and communities. She reflects on the recent 30th anniversary production of her acclaimed play, Kumbayah: The Juneteenth Story, which celebrates the history and enduring significance of Juneteenth through music, storytelling, and community engagement. McGee also previews the Annual Pie Showcase on July 15, where participants are invited to share a favorite pie and the personal, cultural, or family story behind it, demonstrating how food can spark meaningful conversations and deeper connections. She concludes by looking ahead to Sweet Potato Comfort Pie’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. community celebration in January and encourages listeners to stay connected with the organization’s upcoming events and opportunities to build community together.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala joins Chantel Sings to discuss AARP Minnesota’s 2026 Community Challenge grants, which are supporting 18 projects across the state that improve quality of life and help communities become more livable for residents of all ages. He highlights initiatives ranging from technology training for older adults and innovative home-sharing programs to safer streets, improved public spaces, transportation assistance, and accessibility enhancements. Haapala explains how small investments can spark lasting community change and encourages local organizations to explore ideas that can be replicated in communities throughout Minnesota. The conversation also emphasizes AARP’s decade-long commitment to helping people live independently, stay connected, and thrive as they age.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Dr. Barbara Hutchinson joins Chantel Sings to discuss ATTR-cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CM), a serious and progressive heart condition that is frequently misdiagnosed because its symptoms often resemble normal aging or other forms of heart failure. She explains why common warning signs—including shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs or feet, irregular heartbeat, and even conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome—should not be ignored, particularly since one in 25 Black Americans carries a genetic variant associated with hereditary ATTR-CM. Dr. Hutchinson also highlights new survey findings showing that 95% of Black women surveyed had never been screened for the condition, underscoring the need for greater awareness and earlier diagnosis. The conversation encourages listeners to have informed discussions with their health care providers about persistent symptoms and the importance of early evaluation and appropriate care.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Dr. Janice M. Williams-Porter joins Freddie Bell to discuss the inspiration behind her new book, The Women’s Leadership Blueprint, and why effective leadership begins with self-awareness, clarity, and strong personal values. Drawing from more than three decades of experience in education and executive leadership, she shares practical strategies for helping women develop confidence, strengthen communication, make purposeful decisions, and lead authentically without imitating others. Dr. Porter also explains how meaningful relationships, mentorship, and professional networks contribute to long-term leadership success while overcoming challenges with integrity. The conversation highlights how The Women’s Leadership Blueprint serves as both a guide and a leadership development pathway for women at every stage of their personal and professional journey.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Floyd Jones joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of BackBlack and its work connecting Black-led nonprofits with funding, resources, and greater visibility. He highlights the impact of investing in organizations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and shares how BackBlack helped direct more than $11.5 million to Black-led nonprofits last year. Jones also previews Black Philanthropy Month in August, a global celebration of generosity, community leadership, and collective impact, centered on the theme “Many Voices. One Movement.” The conversation explores Minnesota’s vibrant Black philanthropic ecosystem and encourages listeners to support local organizations through volunteering, mentoring, advocacy, and charitable giving. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Damon Jenkins, Senior Vice President and Minnesota Regional Market President for First Independence Bank, joins Freddie Bell & Chantel Sings to discuss the grand opening of the bank’s new St. Paul branch in the heart of the Frogtown and Rondo communities. As Minnesota’s first Black-owned bank and a Minority Depository Institution, First Independence Bank is expanding its commitment to financial education, homeownership, small business growth, and wealth-building opportunities. Jenkins explains why the bank chose to partner with the Neighborhood Development Center and how the new location will serve residents, entrepreneurs, and families throughout St. Paul. The conversation also explores the importance of community banking, economic empowerment, and creating pathways to generational wealth for future generations. 

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Reverend James Stacey, Minister of Unity South Twin Cities in Bloomington, joins Freddie Bell for the Community Builders Series to discuss the power of community building through service, compassion, and shared purpose. Drawing on decades of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership, Rev. Stacey shares how the simple question, "How can we help?" has guided his congregation's work and strengthened relationships across communities. He reflects on how Unity South supported a neighboring Hispanic/Latino congregation during and after the ICE surge, providing financial assistance and encouragement to families facing fear, housing instability, and uncertainty. The conversation highlights the importance of showing up for one another, building bridges across cultures, and creating communities where people feel seen, honored, and respected.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Natalia Terfa joins Freddie Bell to discuss her new book, It All Counts. Drawing from her experiences as a pastor, writer, and community member, Terfa explores how ordinary moments, relationships, and daily choices can carry profound meaning, even when life feels overwhelming. She shares insights on cultivating hope, paying attention to what matters most, and finding purpose in the midst of busy schedules and uncertainty. The conversation offers listeners practical ways to embrace gratitude, deepen connections with others, and recognize that every act of kindness, courage, and compassion truly counts.