Join Mike, Zoe, and the committed Dr.Claudia Vandiver who began her news & education outlet Maywood Watchdog to bring high quality information to a local audience. From writing a property tax boot camp guide to an exposé on village board members ignoring long-over due environmental protection concerns, this upstanding citizen has taken matters of education into her own hands.

Join Mike, Zoe, & Northwest Austin Council's Executive Director Steve Robinson for a conversation on witnessing transformation through decades of community organization. From vibrant neighborhoods to systemic challenges, Steve shares grassroots efforts that sparked real change from church congregations and citizen block clubs.

The mission of the Northwest Austin Council (NAC) is to mobilize residents of Chicago's Austin community to take action on the issues which directly affect their lives. We conduct grassroots organizing campaigns on issues of housing discrimination youth development.

Join Mike & Zoe as they partake in a discussion about a recent Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act that challenges the protection of minority populations across the nation, and the great refresher with the warm, knowledgeable, and keen cuisine super-star Chef Ora. Starting her LLC Urban Excellence Ent post-pandemic, she has taken off to soaring heights with a full-time catering business Cafe 322 Urban Bistro, as well as an annual event highlighting Black Excellence with her talented culinary colleagues occurring this Spring on May 16th in Broadview.

Join Mike, Zoe, and esteemed CEO of Destiny Unlimited & Executive Development Producer Danita Patterson. Learn more about her journey from the Windy City to LA to achieve her dreams and make instrumental decisions with Hollywood icons such as Will Smith. Danita's precise understanding of the entertainment business has allowed her to produce creative endeavors, including her nonprofit Destiny Outreach that equips young minds interested in the field with experience, workshops, and employment opportunities through their dynamic programs alongside partners at Cine City Studios (North Lawndale).

Dive into the rich stories of power couple Jamion & Reesheda Nicole Berry on how the West Side of Chicago is transforming its cultural landscape through arts, community-driven projects, and intergenerational collaboration. This episode reveals powerful initiatives that are building bridges and igniting pride in local neighborhoods.

Read about Kindred Civic Arts Forum 2026 summer project: Love Is On The Green Line Community Kickoff – The Culture

Welcome! In recent years opportunities have been sprouting on the Westside for those interested in construction or a career in the trades.

This episode we talk with Leonard Alexander about his Fearless Dreamers construction training for youth/reformation and Deondre Rutues' new center that will facilitate a program this summer on the importance of facilitating hands-on activities with proper tools/machinery, integrating social skills for professionalism, and the promising evolution of green trade such as heat pumps (or geothermal heating if you're fancy.)

Learn about Leonard's Fearless Dreamers Program: https://www.fearlessdreamers.org/

And Deondre's Rutues Center:https://deondrerutues.com/rutuescenter/

Join Mike, Zoe. and Renee as she explores the power of poetry and storytelling rooted in Chicago’s West Side. Discover how legends like the Candy Lady and historical narratives shape community identity and resilience. Renee's journey from Cabrini-Green to the vibrant West Side offers a mirror to our shared history and future.

Join Mike & Rebecca as they anticipate the Green Living Summit on April 25th.

It’s time to get educated on what really supports environmental justice—because knowledge is the first step to collective change. From an impassioned youth to an environmental chair lead, Rebecca shares her wisdom to emphasize that individual actions matter, but policy change is key for bigger impact. From compost bins to protesting price hikes, her work is about empowering us to reclaim control over our environment.

Learn more about the Summit here: https://cwbnaacp.org/environmental/

In this insightful interview, Deborah Vines, founder of The Answer Incorporated, shares her 20-year journey supporting families with autism. Topics include the upcoming 18th annual Walkathon, community resources, misconceptions about autism, and advocacy efforts to empower families.

Join Mike and P.Rae in a riveting conversation on the muddy crux of American politics and adapting to an unyielding system. From Chicago's West Side to the White House, P.Rae dives in on the truth behind her experience with systemic injustices and why Democratic leaders failed to look after the people. Tune in for a bold take on breaking free from political norms.

Read more @ ourculture.us