We shine a light on the life-saving work of the Gift of Life Donor Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. We’re joined by Richard Hasz, President & CEO of Gift of Life, and Justin Trotman, a Philly native, husband, father, and kidney transplant waitlist patient. As one of the nation’s oldest and largest organ procurement organizations, Gift of Life continues to lead in organ and tissue donation. Their 28th Annual Donor Dash unites thousands to honor donor heroes, support recipients, and raise awareness for those still waiting. More than 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waitlist—including nearly 5,000 in our region. It takes just a minute to become a registered donor and potentially save a life.
🌐 Learn more and register: Donors1.org
📲 Socials: @donors1 on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey’s 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children’s Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.
We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.
💙 Support kids like Nikos: www.give2csh.org/chw

🌈 In our SpeakOUT segment, we’re joined by Angela Giampolo, a nationally respected attorney, entrepreneur, and LGBTQ+ activist. Founder of Giampolo Law Group (GLG), Angela specializes in LGBTQ+ legal advocacy, estate planning, civil rights, and family law.
We discuss the impact of Trump-era executive orders on the LGBTQIA+ community—and what that means for civil rights, safety, and equality in today’s America. 🔗 Learn more and connect with Angela Giampolo:
• Website: www.giampololaw.com
• Instagram: @yourgaylawyer
• Facebook: Angela Giampolo
• X (formerly Twitter): @phillygaylawyer
• LinkedIn: Angela Giampolo

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey’s 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children’s Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.
We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.
💙 Support kids like Nikos: www.give2csh.org/chw
🌈 In our SpeakOUT segment, we’re joined by Angela Giampolo, a nationally respected attorney, entrepreneur, and LGBTQ+ activist. Founder of Giampolo Law Group (GLG), Angela specializes in LGBTQ+ legal advocacy, estate planning, civil rights, and family law.
We discuss the impact of Trump-era executive orders on the LGBTQIA+ community—and what that means for civil rights, safety, and equality in today’s America.
 🔗 Learn more and connect with Angela Giampolo:
• Website: www.giampololaw.com
• Instagram: @yourgaylawyer
• Facebook: Angela Giampolo
• X (formerly Twitter): @phillygaylawyer
• LinkedIn: Angela Giampolo
💡 Finally, we close out the episode with six practical tips for everyday Americans navigating the real-world impact of economic policies under the Trump administration—from taxes and healthcare to inflation and labor protections.
These strategies are simple, actionable, and focused on building resilience in uncertain times.

This week, we bring you two powerful conversations about justice, community, and hope. First, we speak with Reverend Gregory Holston, founder of Just Nation, an organization dedicated to fighting racism at every level of government. Reverend Holston shares details about the upcoming Coalition to Defend Democracy Mass Rally, happening Tuesday, April 22, from 6–8 PM at 10th Memorial Baptist Church (1328 N. 19th Street, Philadelphia).
📘 Follow Rev. Holston: facebook.com/reverendgregory.holston
🌐 Learn more: pennpolicy.org  

Then, we shine a light on the life-saving work of the Gift of Life Donor Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. We’re joined by Richard Hasz, President & CEO of Gift of Life, and Justin Trotman, a Philly native, husband, father, and kidney transplant waitlist patient. As one of the nation’s oldest and largest organ procurement organizations, Gift of Life continues to lead in organ and tissue donation. Their 28th Annual Donor Dash unites thousands to honor donor heroes, support recipients, and raise awareness for those still waiting. More than 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waitlist—including nearly 5,000 in our region. It takes just a minute to become a registered donor and potentially save a life.
🌐 Learn more and register: Donors1.org
📲 Socials: @donors1 on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

This week marks Black Maternal Health Week, a time to raise awareness about the alarming disparities in care experienced by Black mothers and babies. In this episode, we hear from Jenne Johns, founder of Once Upon a Preemie, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black families navigating the challenges of premature birth. Jenne recently testified before Philadelphia City Council to advocate for increased awareness, education, and culturally responsive support for families impacted by preterm birth. Learn more about her powerful mission and the resources available through her organization:
🌐 www.onceuponapreemie.org
📸 Instagram: @onceapreemie
📘 Facebook: @onceuponapreemie
💼 LinkedIn: once-upon-a-preemie-academy #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #OnceUponAPreemie #PrematurityAwareness #EquityInCare #Podcast

Thinking about buying a pre-owned car? It can be a smart financial move—but only if you know what to look for. I’m joined by Joshua Blum of Joshua Motors to share expert advice on how to shop smart. From spotting red flags to avoiding common mistakes, Joshua breaks down what makes a reliable used car and how to ensure you're making a sound investment.
Learn more at jmccauto.com  

Books, big ideas, and bold voices—we're joined by Daniel Blank, Managing Director of Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, to talk about their dynamic spring Author Events Series. This season features guests like Maria Shriver, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and a highly anticipated conversation with Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. With accessibility in mind, the series now offers a new $5 ticketing model. Daniel shares what’s driving this momentum and why it’s become one of the most beloved cultural programs in the city.
Visit freelibraryfoundation.org for the full schedule.
Follow them on Instagram & Facebook: @freelibraryfdn    

What’s the future of cancer research—and other critical breakthroughs in medicine?
I speak with Dr. Ron Collman, a critical care physician and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, who participated in the Stand Up for Science rally at Philadelphia City Hall—not in his professional capacity, but as a concerned citizen. He shares why restoring federal funding for scientific research is vital to public health, medical progress, and the future of lifesaving innovation. Learn more at standupforscience2025.org
Join the conversation on social media using #StandUpForScience

I’m joined by Gloria Malone from Vital Strategies and Keli McLoyd, Director of the Overdose Response Unit for the City of Philadelphia, to talk about the You Can Save Lives campaign. At a time when overdose deaths continue to rise in the Black community, this initiative raises critical awareness about the life-saving power of Naloxone and the urgent need for overdose prevention strategies that match the scale of the crisis. They share how Philadelphians can access free Naloxone and Fentanyl test strips. 
Learn more at youcansavelives.org and substanceusephilly.com
Follow Vital Strategies on Instagram: @vitalstrategies  

Later in the show, we spotlight a powerful nonprofit working to uplift Philadelphia neighborhoods by renovating aging homes: Rebuilding Together Philadelphia. I speak with Rudolph “Coach” Edge, a homeowner whose block was transformed by this initiative; Stefanie F. Seldin, President and CEO of Rebuilding Together Philadelphia; and Craig Carnaroli, Senior Executive Vice President at the University of Pennsylvania, a key supporter of this community-centered work.
Learn more at rebuildingphilly.org
Follow Rebuilding Together Philadelphia:
Instagram: @rtphiladelphia
Facebook: facebook.com/rebuildingphilly
LinkedIn: Rebuilding Together Philadelphia

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with acclaimed poet, performer, and recording artist Ursula Rucker in celebration of National Poetry Month this April.
Follow Ursula on Instagram and Twitter: @urucker for more of her powerful words and performances.

Also featured in this episode is Dr. Ellyn Jo Waller, First Lady of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, human rights activist, and children’s book author of The Fruitful Sisters, for the segment "What is Philadelphia Reading." Learn more about her work at ellynjowaller.com.

Kim Fraites-Dow, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania joined us to talk about the highly anticipated GirlzDay: Our World, Our Way, happening on May 17, 2025, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This event is designed to empower and inspire girls in grades K-12, offering a full day of leadership, creativity, and fun. Kim will also share insights into the Calling All Girl Bosses initiative and how Girl Scouts continues to support and uplift young changemakers in our communities. For more details on GirlzDay and how to register or become a sponsor, visit www.gsep.org/girlzday.
Follow Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania on social media:
📷 Instagram: @girlscoutsepenn
📘 Facebook & LinkedIn: Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania


Diana A. Torralvo is the Director of Community Relations & Communications for NBC10, Telemundo62, and NBC Sports Philadelphia. She plays a key role in strengthening relationships with local organizations and ensuring the stations’ deep-rooted commitment to serving the Greater Philadelphia community. As the NBCUniversal Local Impact Grants return in 2025 with over $227,000 in funding for local nonprofits, Diana shares insights on this impactful initiative, how organizations can apply, and the program’s long-term impact on the region. Nonprofits can apply now through April 11 at localimpactgrants.com or becasdeimpactolocal.com (Spanish-language site). Follow NBC10 & Telemundo62 for updates:
🌐 Website: NBC10.com | Telemundo62.com
📢 Twitter/X: @NBCPhiladelphia | @Telemundo62
📷 Instagram: @NBCPhiladelphia | @Telemundo62
📘 Facebook: NBC Philadelphia | Telemundo62