Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati welcomes Dr. Jim Smith Jr., “The World’s #1 Speaker and Performance Coach,” to share valuable tips on maintaining mental wellness during the holiday season. Dr. Smith also joins us for the monthly segment, “What is Philadelphia Reading?”, where we dive into the books shaping minds and conversations.

Learn more about Dr. Jim Smith Jr.:
https://www.drjamessmithjr.com/

I chat with Russell Johnson, Wine Specialist at Fine Wine & Good Spirits, who shares expert tips for creating unforgettable holiday wine pairings. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or looking to master wine and food pairings, Russell offers invaluable advice to elevate your celebrations. For more ideas, visit the “Learn & Entertain” section at FWGS.com, and check out the “Recipes” section for creative cocktail inspiration.  

 Next, we explore the vital role of libraries as community hubs. I speak with Colin Hamilton, celebrated author and arts advocate, about his latest book, The Discarded, and his recent talk at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Author Series. Joining us is Daniel Blank, who leads the library’s Author Events program, to preview upcoming speakers and events. Learn more at colinhamiltonwriter.com and Free Library Author Events.  

I speak about  the inspiring work of Lavanda “Bonnie” Earl and Sabrina Adams, organizers of the annual Great Family Gathering. Each year, this initiative provides Thanksgiving dinner and school supplies to over 5,000 homeless individuals. Learn how you can contribute to this impactful effort by donating here.

We celebrate the 140th anniversary of The Philadelphia Tribune, America’s oldest continuously published African American newspaper. I sit down with Robert Bogle, the Tribune’s esteemed Publisher, to discuss the legacy of this iconic institution, its commitment to advocacy, and its role as a cornerstone of Philadelphia's media landscape. Learn more about the Tribune’s remarkable history at phillytrib.com.

Next, I speak with Kamryn Davis, Philadelphia Regional Director of PA Youth Vote, about the 2024 election results and their impact on Black women, youth, and marginalized communities. Kamryn shares her insights on empowering first-time voters, creating collective power, and inspiring long-term civic engagement. Stay connected with PA Youth Vote:

• Website: payouthvote.org
• Instagram: @payouthvote, @therealkamryne
• Facebook: PA Youth Vote, Kamryn Davis
• Threads & TikTok: @payouthvote, @therealkamryne
• LinkedIn: PA Youth Vote

First, I talk with Lavanda “Bonnie” Earl and Sabrina Adams about the annual Great Family Gathering, which provides Thanksgiving dinner and school supplies to over 5,000 homeless individuals. Learn how you can support this life-changing event by donating here: GoFundMe.

iHeartMedia Philadelphia has partnered with Boost Mobile and Cradles to Crayons® for the "Boost Up for Winter" campaign, running through December 22nd. This large-scale community coat drive supports Cradles to Crayons' Gear Up for Winter initiative, with a goal of collecting and distributing 20,000 warm winter coats and essential items to children and families in need across Greater Philadelphia. Items will be distributed through Cradles to Crayons’ network of Service Partners, including hospitals, schools, and community centers. In this episode, I speak with Shawn Anderson, Director of Sales and Distribution for Boost Mobile, and Michal Smith, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons, about the campaign's impact. Learn more and get involved at iHeartMedia Cradles to Crayons Boost Up for Winter.

Kathleen Titus, Race Director for the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, shares exciting updates about one of the city's most celebrated sporting events. From November 22 to 24, a record-breaking 37,000 participants will take part in the AACR Philadelphia Marathon, Dietz & Watson Half Marathon, and Rothman Orthopaedics 8K. The weekend also features a free Health & Fitness Expo and a Children’s Zone for families. This milestone year saw race registration sell out nearly two months earlier than last year. Learn more at PhiladelphiaMarathon.com and AACR.org.  

Hugh Organ, Chief Program Officer of Covenant House Pennsylvania (CHPA), joins us to mark Youth Homelessness Awareness Month and the 25th anniversary of CHPA’s work supporting homeless youth. Hugh discusses the significance of their annual Sleep Out event on November 21, where participants spend the night outside with only a cardboard box and a sleeping bag to raise awareness and funds for youth homelessness. Discover how CHPA is making a difference at CovenantHousePA.org. Sleep Out. Follow them on social media:  

• Facebook: Covenant House PA
• Instagram: @covenanthousepa
• Twitter: @CovenantHousePA
• LinkedIn: Covenant House Pennsylvania

 Finally, Angela Giampolo of Giampolo Law Group returns for our monthly SpeakOUT feature. This week, Angela delves into the potential impact of Donald Trump's re-election on LGBTQIA+ rights and the broader community. Learn more Trump's re-election on LGBTQIA+ rights and the broader community. Learn more at Philly Gay Lawyer | Giampolo Law Group.

Russell Johnson, Wine Specialist from Fine Wine & Good Spirits, shares expert tips for creating memorable holiday wine pairings. From planning the perfect party to mastering wine pairing guides, Russell provides invaluable advice for elevating your holiday celebrations. Explore more tips in the “Learn & Entertain” section at FWGS.com, and get creative cocktail inspiration in the “Recipes” section.  

Elizabeth Wellington, a respected columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer, discusses her recent piece on the intersectional fatigue Black women face as they balance self-care, activism, and the emotional toll of political engagement. During significant election cycles, Black women often bear a unique burden at the crossroads of civic duty and personal well-being. Wellington’s work sheds light on their resilience and provides profound insights into the lived experiences of Black women in today’s complex political landscape. Read her article here.

Octavius Blount, a leader at Philadelphia's Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), joins us to discuss his role managing the Engaging Males of Color (EMOC) initiative. Octavius, who uses he/him pronouns, is committed to addressing behavioral health challenges faced by males of color across Philadelphia. In honor of International Men’s Day on November 19, he shares insights into this year’s event, which aims to empower men and boys while celebrating the positive influence of male role models in our communities.   International Men’s Day Details

• Date: November 19, 2024
• Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Behavioral Health Training and Education Network (BHTEN), 7th Floor
• Address: 520 Delaware Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19123

Connect with EMOC and DBHIDS

• Website: emocphilly.org
• X (formerly Twitter): @dbhids
• Instagram: @dbhids
• Facebook: Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services
• LinkedIn: Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services

Medicare can be complex, with a range of plans and options that often raise questions for newcomers or those considering changes to their coverage. Karina Chavieri, Director of Medicare Sales at Independence Blue Cross, joins me to break down Medicare basics, explain the different parts, and provide insights on making informed healthcare decisions. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age or helping a loved one navigate their options, Karina's expertise will help clarify the choices available. Learn more at ibxmedicare.com.

I speak with  Megan, a survivor of domestic abuse who has shown immense courage in sharing her story. Megan’s journey is a powerful example of the complexities many survivors face, often in silence. Recently, she attended iPledge, an event sponsored by Women Against Abuse that inspired her to become more involved in raising awareness and helping others. Her story is not just about the physical aspect of abuse but also the emotional, mental, and psychological trauma that often goes unnoticed. Megan’s experiences shed light on the hidden forms of abuse, and she hopes to make a difference by sharing her journey with us today.  

https://www.womenagainstabuse.org/
If you or someone you know needs help, call the toll-free 24-hour Hotline: 1.866.723.3014  
https://www.theladywholaughs.com/

We look at  into the ripple effects of Donald Trump’s presidency with Keir Bradford-Grey, Head of the Civil Rights Division at Marrone Law Firm and a leading advocate for criminal justice reform. Keir offers a nuanced perspective on how Trump's policies and rhetoric will impact the justice system, influence marginalized communities, and reshape public conversations on crime and accountability. She discusses the legacy of his administration and its potential implications for the future.  

 Medicare can be complex, with a range of plans and options that often raise questions for newcomers or those considering changes to their coverage. Karina Chavieri, Director of Medicare Sales at Independence Blue Cross, joins me to break down Medicare basics, explain the different parts, and provide insights on making informed healthcare decisions. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age or helping a loved one navigate their options, Karina's expertise will help clarify the choices available. Learn more at ibxmedicare.com.

"How do we find opportunities that are truly meaningful and fulfilling? In this episode, I sit down with Joy Morgan—life coach, pastor, and motivational speaker—to explore insights on pursuing purpose-driven goals, building resilience, and creating lasting change in our lives.
Learn more about Joy at joymorganmotivates.com."