N'DIGO STUDIO

Join host Hermene Hartman on N'Digo Studio for an inspiring conversation about how Chicago's historic Woodlawn neighborhood is experiencing a cultural and economic transformation. This episode explores the powerful intersection of art, entrepreneurship, and community development as the Obama Presidential Center prepares to open its doors in spring 2026.

Meet Quandra Speights, CEO/co-owner of the Urban Market Exchange and human resources professional turned community developer, who shares her vision for bringing minority-owned businesses back to the South Side. After experiencing corporate layoffs and completing entrepreneurial training at Sunshine Enterprises, Quandra purchased a building in Woodlawn that will house private studio spaces, a community café with transparent walls showcasing artists at work, retail pop-up stores, and specialty rooms equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and podcasting equipment.

Fine artist Dana Todd Pope discusses her journey creating paintings that celebrate Black childhood joy on Chicago's South Side. Growing up in Woodlawn with the Museum of Science and Industry nearby, Dana experienced a beautiful childhood that contrasted sharply with negative media portrayals. Her children's series emerged from a desire to paint the joy she knew rather than tragedy. Through Sunshine Enterprises, Dana found mentorship and resources that helped her exhibit at Chicago Public Schools, Gallery Guichard, and Navy Pier.

Yohance Lacour brings an extraordinary story of transformation. A Pulitzer Prize and Peabody Award winner for his investigative journalism podcast "You Didn't See Nothing" with the Invisible Institute, Yohance examined the 1997 beating of thirteen-year-old Lenard Clark in Bridgeport. While incarcerated, he taught himself leatherworking, learning from fellow inmates. Today, he creates bespoke leather shoes, purses, and bags.

The Urban Market Exchange represents a strategic response to community needs revealed during the pandemic. When Illinois sought 3,000 protective masks for minority communities, Quandra realized local makers lacked equipment and space to scale production. Opening March 2026, concurrent with the Obama Presidential Center, the space will serve artists in painting, jewelry making, cobbling, textile design, and 3D printing while prioritizing community members and youth through workshops and mentorship.

This conversation addresses neighborhood transformation realities. While the Obama Presidential Center brings investment and tourism to Woodlawn, the speakers acknowledge displacement concerns. Their response creates economic opportunities and cultural anchors serving existing residents first, building wealth and skills that help people stay in their neighborhoods.

The episode captures what Yohance calls a "second Chicago Black renaissance"—artists and makers working in community creating inspiration, camaraderie, and innovation while honoring Woodlawn's rich African-American history.

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On this episode of N'DIGO Studio with host Hermene Hartman, we shine a light on the fight to keep Black storytelling alive in Chicago and across America. Leslie Fields-Cruz, Executive Director of Black Public Media, joins us to discuss the devastating impact of federal defunding on public media and why preserving authentic Black narratives is essential to America's cultural record. Black Public Media is seeking 1.8 million donors to replace lost federal funding—donate at blackpublicmedia.org to support African American voices in public broadcasting.

Then, meet Chicago filmmakers Arlieta Hall and Brittany Alsot, first-time documentary filmmakers behind Finding Your Laughter—a heartfelt film about Alzheimer's caregiver experiences, dementia communication, and finding joy through comedy and improv. As a certified dementia communication specialist and stand-up comedian, Arlieta shares her powerful caregiver journey caring for her father, former Chicago principal Milton Hall Sr., who lived with Alzheimer's disease. Their film, supported by Black Public Media's Pitch Black Incubator, turns pain into purpose and celebrates the love between a father and daughter navigating Alzheimer's with grace and humor.

This episode explores the critical intersection of public media funding, African American storytelling, and caregiver advocacy. Leslie Fields-Cruz discusses how the elimination of federal support threatens Black documentaries, independent filmmakers, and the infrastructure that brings diverse stories to audiences nationwide. Without organizations like Black Public Media, films like Finding Your Laughter might never reach the communities that need them most.

Arlieta and Brittany share behind-the-scenes insights into their documentary filmmaking process, the challenges of being first-time creators, and how comedy became an unexpected tool for dementia care and communication. Arlieta's unique approach combines her professional comedy skills with dementia care expertise, offering fresh perspectives on Alzheimer's caregiving that prioritize joy, connection, and dignity. Her father's legacy as a respected Chicago educator adds depth to this intimate family story.

The conversation also addresses the broader crisis facing public broadcasting and Black media entrepreneurship. As federal funding disappears, grassroots support becomes essential for preserving Black cultural narratives and supporting emerging African American filmmakers who tell stories that mainstream media often overlooks.

Tune in for a powerful discussion on the future of Black documentaries, caregiving through comedy, the importance of representation in public broadcasting, community support for independent media, and the healing power of laughter and storytelling in the face of Alzheimer's disease.

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Host: Hermene Hartman
Guests: Genealogist Christopher Smothers of Unearthing Your Roots and Dr. Steven Rogers

In this compelling N’Digo Studio conversation, host Hermene Hartman explores how discovering your ancestry can rewrite both personal and public history.
Recorded in Chicago, this episode dives into African American genealogy, family identity, and a surprising headline story, that the newly appointed Pope Leo XIV, born on the South Side of Chicago, may have African American ancestry traced through New Orleans and Haiti.

Genealogist Christopher Smothers breaks down how oral history, DNA testing, and legal records reveal forgotten legacies — from enslaved ancestors to Civil War freedom fighters.
Historian Dr. Steven Rogers shares how tracing his family led him to discover a six-year-old enslaved boy named Ishmael Brown, who later fought for the Union Army, transforming grief into pride and giving names to those erased by history.

Together, they unpack:

• How families can start researching their own ancestry

• Why genealogy matters for identity, healing, and even future reparations

A moving exploration of history, heritage, and hope — told through the voices of Chicago’s own storytellers.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and ndigo.com.

👉🏾 Follow host Hermene Hartman (@iamhermenehartman) and visit ndigo.com for more stories.

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In this episode of the N'Digo Studio Podcast, Hermene Hartman sits down with Dion Dawson and Jackie Hoffman, two inspiring voices for community wellness in Chicago. Together, they discuss public health, food justice, and how local initiatives like “One Mile a Day” help strengthen mental health and solidarity across the South Side & West Side of Chicago neighborhoods.
Through their stories, discover how leadership, consistency, and local engagement can create lasting change and inspire a new generation of community changemakers

From Englewood community fridges to West Side marathons, these dreamers prove that consistency and community can transform lives.

🎙️ Topics:

• Ending food insecurity through Dion’s Chicago Dream

• Building wellness movements with Peace Runners 773

• The power of consistency: “One mile a day”

• Collaboration, longevity & community impact

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and ndigo.com.

👉🏾 Follow host Hermene Hartman (@iamhermenehartman) and visit ndigo.com for more stories.

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In this special episode of the N’DIGO Studio Podcast, host Hermene Hartman sits down with Yusef Jackson (executive producer and son of Rev. Jesse Jackson) and producer Bill Keys for an intimate conversation about the making of the new Rev. Jesse Jackson Documentary, exploring his legacy as a cultural icon and civil rights leader.

Through these cultural conversations, they share behind-the-scenes insights into documenting one of America’s most powerful voices in the civil rights movement, as well as his role in shaping Black history, political leadership, and the fight for social justice. The discussion highlights how the film captures both the challenges and triumphs of Rev. Jackson’s lifelong mission, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

If you’re interested in documentary film, cultural history, or Chicago’s role in Black excellence, this conversation offers a powerful and personal perspective on a historic figure.

👉🏾 Follow host Hermene Hartman (@iamhermenehartman) and visit ndigo.com for more stories.

🎧 Subscribe to the N’DIGO Studio Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

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Discover how North Lawndale, a historic Chicago neighborhood, is transforming after decades of disinvestment. This episode dives into the grassroots initiatives redefining the area — from preserving Black culture and building affordable housing to launching a global chocolate cooperative and more.

Learn how:

• A forgotten community turned into a model for urban renewal

• Locals led sustainable change with global reach

• Black culture and history were reclaimed and preserved

Guests include:

• Michael McMurray Board Member Lawndale Christian Development Corporation

• Whitney L. Smith, Deputy Director & Counsel Lawndale Christian Development Corporation

• Rev. Marvin Hunter, Developer of Grace Manor Apartments

Their stories offer powerful insight into what’s possible when community leaders unite to drive change. Tune in for inspiration, unexpected twists, and a hopeful look at how North Lawndale became a blueprint for neighborhoods across the country.

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Step into the world of Chicago fashion like never before! In this episode of N'DIGO Studio, we’re spotlighting the bold, diverse, and creative talent behind Chicago Fashion Week. Join me as I sit down with some of the city’s top designers, stylists, and fashion insiders to explore what makes Chicago’s fashion scene truly stand out.

From the hard work and hustle behind the runway to the power of personal style and self-expression, this conversation is a must-listen for fashion lovers, creators, and anyone curious about the heart of Midwest style.

My special guests are:

Maggie Gillette. Organizer of Chicago Fashion Week
Curio Show

Team — The Curio

Manny Gentesina. Designer
Cabrera Label

Alex McDermott/I Am Studios

Alex McDermott: From Oil Painting to Fashion’s Cutting Edge

Sal Yvat/Stylist

Fashion Focused Studio - By Sal

✨ Whether you're looking to level up your own look or just love discovering fresh creative energy, this episode is packed with inspiration.

🎧 Listen now for a front-row seat to Chicago’s fashion movement.

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In this REWIND episode, N'DIGO Studio presents the remarkable journey of former congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. seeking a presidential pardon after incarceration. His powerful story transforms from political power to prison revelation, offering exclusive insights on criminal justice reform, redemption, and America's pardon system.

With vulnerable honesty, Jackson shares his legislative battles, personal struggles, and pursuit of official forgiveness. The congressman's unexpected prison discovery challenges conventional understanding about second chances and restorative justice in America. Join our in-depth conversation that redefines how we view pardons, rehabilitation, and social justice reform in today's political landscape.

Jesse Jackson Jr., son of civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson and Jacqueline Jackson, brings a unique perspective forged through both privilege and hardship. For 17 years, he represented Illinois' 2nd congressional district, championing social justice and political reform before his career was derailed by legal troubles. With roots deeply embedded in America's civil rights movement, Jackson offers intimate insights into his childhood, political journey, and the profound lessons learned from both his time in Congress and federal prison. His story of fall and potential redemption provides a compelling lens through which to examine our justice system, political accountability, and the long path toward personal restoration.

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In this episode of N'Digo Studio with host Hermene Hartman, we sit down with Forrest Claypool, a seasoned political strategist and public servant with decades of experience shaping Chicago’s urban landscape. From serving as CEO of Chicago Public Schools and superintendent of the Chicago Park District to working as chief of staff for Mayor Richard M. Daley, Claypool has been at the center of key political and infrastructural transformations.

Now, he’s sharing an insider’s perspective in his latest book, The Daley Show: Inside the Transformative Reign of Chicago's Richard M. Daley. Claypool delves into the policies, controversies, and leadership style that defined Daley’s tenure, shedding light on the inner workings of Chicago politics, urban development, and city governance.

Tune in as we discuss the past, present, and future of Chicago’s political scene, and uncover the lessons that still resonate today.

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Is America Moving Forward or Just Spinning Its Wheels?

In this REWIND edition of N’Digo Studio, we uncover the hard truths behind the 2024 presidential election—from media influence to political strategy and the state of civil rights advocacy.

Host Hermene Hartman is joined by an expert panel:
🔹 Robert Starks – Emeritus professor
🔹 Atiba K. Buchanan – WVON talk show host
🔹 Rev. Dr. Janette Jenkins – National Director, Push Excel
🔹 Rep. La Shawn K. Ford – Illinois State Representative

Together, they break down the impact of Trump’s presidency, the Democratic Party’s strengths and struggles, the evolving role of women in politics, and whether the fight for civil rights has lost momentum.

🎧 Tune in for a bold, unfiltered discussion on the future of American democracy.

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