Love + Grit: Recent Episodes
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made with love + inspired by grit: culture, music + stories from the heart of philadelphia + visit philly. new episodes drop every other thursday.
When thinking about Maryam Pugh, Tayyib Smith and Sam Katz, we think accomplished visionaries. First up, the revolution may not be televised but it will be featured thanks to Philadelphia Printworks founder, Maryam Pugh. Her mission to promotes social justice just got bigger since being featured in Target stores. This powerful partnership aims to amplify social justice messages and showcase artists from underrepresented communities. Next up, Tayyib Smith and Sam Smith bring their superpowers together to pay homage to the profound Black history of a specific Philadelphia area. Legacy Reclaimed: A 7th Ward Tribute honors the lives of the 19th-century Black residents of the 7th Ward in Philadelphia (located between 6th Street and 23rd Street and between Spruce Street and South Street).
Kyra Knox and Lady Alma are two dope ladies using their voices in different ways. Kyra is using her directing voice to make sure Philly’s basketball courts stay safe. Her passion for the arts created a project that Philly needs: the documentary Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia. The documentary discusses the impact of gun violence in city and highlights the non-profits working hard to create change. Lady Alma has been a legendary force in house music for decades. Around the world she IS the queen of house. We first heard her singing about happiness with Philly legend King Britt and now you can hear her touring around the world and on the Philadelphia Eagles' first Christmas album which raised $1.2M for local charities.
Two people that are the voices of Philadelphia: Alejandro Bedoya and GoGo Morrow. First up, Alejandro is not just the Philadelphia Union’s team captain, but also a passionate advocate to end gun violence. He’s also on the board of Live Work Philadelphia whose mission is to grow and diversify the middle-income population in the City of Philadelphia. Add to the list of accomplishments: helping secure Philadelphia's bid to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup! Next up, GoGo Morrow has been blessed to join the stage with the likes of Kanye West and Lady Gaga. She has also made her mark in her hometown of Philadelphia with a sold-out concert at the Theater of Living Arts and now has taken her Philly roots to Los Angeles. And yes, she still reps that 267 number.
Music and food on your mind? Khemist and Alisha Miranda are about to help sooth your musical and culinary requests. Philly is home to some of the greatest MCs and to add to the list we have Khemist. He’s a teacher, an academic and multi-instrumentalist who has released several studio albums and mixtapes. And now Khemist is working with organizations like the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Kimmel Cultural Campus bridging gaps between the music and local communities. Next, if you want to get the latest on good eats, Alisha Miranda is your person! You can find Alisha’s opinions in places like Eater Philly, the Philadelphia Inquirer, Thrillist, Philadelphia Magazine and Resy. And in her spare time, she produces and hosts #LatinxIndustryNight where she highlights all the tasty goods in Philly’s Latino community.
Philly loves options and that’s what Meeka Johnson and Rene Melendez are serving. Johnson has done it all. She's known in Philly for her sense of fashion innovation. She's put in decades of work as a fashion stylist and consultant. And she's even created her own fashion-forward clothing line. But now we are obsessed with her All Black Everything Pop-Up, which is essentially the Black version of QVC on Instagram that exclusively highlights dope Black-owned brands. Next up, Melendez is the owner of Izlas Latin Cuisine. He dishes on what all of our pallets have been waiting for: a Latino restaurant that presents food from several Latin-American countries. And it just so happens Izlas is a part of Dine Latino Restaurant Week which includes deals from some of the city’s best Latino-owned restaurants.
It’s the Oscars of food and we have Chad Williams and Jamila Robison talking all things culinary. It was 10 years ago when his now wife Hanna Williams introduced the thought to Chad to buy the Rittenhouse Square staple Friday Saturday Sunday. Two years into the gig and right before the opening, Chad and Hanna would make their commitment to each other and the restaurant official by marrying in its kitchen. Now they have the best restaurant in the country. Next up, not only is Jamila Robinson the first Black female judge on the World's 50 Best Restaurants panel, but she’s also the chair of the James Beard Foundation's Journalism Awards program. She also knows a thing or two about Philly’s culinary scene and how it can change communities.
Love + Grit celebrates all things Philly and the BlackStar Film Festival was full of Philly legends and up-and-comers including Emmy Award winner and Mural Arts Philadelphia Black Artists fellow Simone Holland. Simone initially came to the film festival as a cinematographer for another BlackStar Fellow project and returned a second time as a fellow herself. Live from the Daily Jawn Stage at the Kimmel Cultural Campus, Justin and Laiya talk with Simone about her premiere film, All That’s Left. The film challenges the perspective of existing, longing for acceptance, all around the epicenter of one's life: the kitchen table. We also had to quiz the audience on Philly’s TV and film influences. Can you finish the lyrics to the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” theme song? Can you name the Netflix western based on Philly’s urban riding club?
Philadelphia’s music scene has produced some of the most notable acts in hip-hop and R&B. Case in point Freeway and Julian King. This year, Freeway is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his debut album: Philadelphia Freeway. He’s also using his platform to better his life as a spokesperson and health ambassador for the National Kidney Foundation and the organization he founded, the Freedom Thinkers Academy. Next up, Julian King comes from the same institution, the High School for Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA), as some of your favorite musicians like Boyz II Men and Jazmin Sullivan. And today he has leaped to national stages such as John Legend’s team on NBC’s The Voice and writing and performing the theme song for the Emmy® Nominated film “All Boys Aren't Blue.” Freeway and Julian ARE Philly.
It’s not that our hosts are always hungry, it’s that we have dope people like Justin Coleman and Dionicio Jimenez! Coleman's Bake’n Bacon food truck stepped on the scene in 2019 and has continued to meet his challenge of twisting bacon into all kinds of delicious goodness - like a bacon beer. And soon you’ll get to enjoy Justin’s new brick and mortar restaurant! Next up, Chef Dio is no stranger to Philly’s culinary scene. A true success story, Dio started as a dishwasher, moved to kitchen prep, sous chef and moved up to executive Chef for restaurants like El Rey and Xochitl. And now he lights up Kensington with great aromas at his James Beard nominated Cantina La Martina.
Nikisha Bailey and Denice Frohman are two women taking arts and culture to new levels. Bailey wakes up every day and finds time to work on two things she loves: coffee and music! She’s a music executive who was named a 2x Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power Player and owner of Win Win Coffee Bar, a brand handpicked by Goldman Sachs to be a featured vendor at its 10KSB National Summit. Next up, Frohman’s accolades list starts as a Pew Fellow and Baldwin-Emerson Fellow and leads up to performing at the White House, the Lincoln Center and being featured by many national outlets including the New York Times. In addition to making a career out of poetry, Frohman also creates safe spaces for teens and facilitates workshops for adults and young people.
The Roots Picnic was loaded with legends and Black-owned businesses! Creative ambassadors Tina Dixon Spence, Shanti Mayers, Thomas (Tom) Davis and Kimberly McGlonn join Justin and Laiya for Philly trivia live on the Roots Picnic podcast stage. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, we had to ask questions around Philly’s musical influences. Can you finish the lyrics to Eve’s Grammy award winning “Let Me Blow Ya Mind?” Can you name the song that won the first award for Best Rap Performance presented to DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince? And it wouldn’t be Philly trivia without asking one of our audience members to list three of the best cheesesteak spots in Philadelphia.
We’re listening back at some of our favorite interviews and this week we have three dope guests: VINCINT, Dyana Williams and Charisse McGill! First up we’re celebrating Pride with VINCINT. You know him from the hit show The Four and hearing his voice in the theme song of Queer Eye that was based in Philadelphia. We’re also celebrating Dyana Williams aka the mother of Black Music Month discussing how Black music has touched everyone in some way. And it wouldn’t be love or grit without celebrating food! Charisse McGill, the first Black woman to vend at Spruce Street Harbor Park and the first Black woman in Pennsylvania with her own craft beer, was recently featured on NBC’s The Today Show.
We’re listening back at some of our favorite interviews and this week we have Ellen Yin and Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon! Ellen Yin’s name is synonymous with the hospitality industry. She recently celebrated 25 years of Fork, one of her many restaurants under the High Street Hospitality Group ownership. Ellen is also up for Outstanding Restaurateur in this year’s James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards. Another James Beard Award nominee, Chef Chutatip "Nok" Suntaranon recently moved her Kalaya Thai restaurant to the bustling Fishtown neighborhood. And Chef Nok is no stranger to accolades. In 2020, Esquire named Kalaya the Best Restaurant in America.
We’re listening back at some of our favorite episodes and this week we have Questlove and Roberto Lugo! Did you know Roberto Lugo, born in the Kensington neighborhood of Philly, has been featured in museums across the country including the Metropolitan Museum of Art? He’s also behind the Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter mural right outside the Clay Studio building. Yes, Black Thought from the Legendary Roots Crew who Questlove is also a member of. And just in case you needed a reminder of who Questlove is: musical director of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon; cofounder of digital music and media platforms Okayplayer and OkayAfrica; a James Beard Award-nominated cookbook author; plant-based cheesesteak maker and more.
James Jones, Lawrence Harrington and George Morse are representing Philly locally and nationally. First up, Harrington and Morse, both captains of the local Black Men Run chapter, explain the ins and outs of one of Philly's favorite running clubs which has been making its mark on the streets and communities of Philadelphia for over a decade. However, their mission goes beyond running, taking their core values of Brotherhood, Unity, and Health into the communities they run through. Next up, Jones was planning events in Philly before becoming a contestant on CBS's Survivor season 43. Spoiler alert: Although he didn’t win the $1 million cash prize, he is now curating vibes for all in our city.
Kimberly McGlonn and Jill Scott are two Philly queens making great moves in the “City of Sisterly Affection.” Black Ivy Thrift Store is an innovative shoppable museum that honors our past. You may remember McGlonn from her activism work and especially for her super dope store, Grant Blvd. McGlonn returns to the Love + Grit podcast to talk about her new project. Next up, Laiya has a one-on-one session with Philly’s own Grammy-award winning Jill Scott! She recently kicked off her anniversary tour in Philly, is putting the finishing touches on her upcoming album, and dedicates time to her almost two-decade old Blues Babe Foundation - a launch pad for Philly’s young brilliance.
Do what you love...that’s what Victor Tejada and Samantha Smith do. Tejada is improving small businesses through Delivery Guys, his food-delivery business. Launched during the pandemic, Tejada and his start-up have since been able to offer drivers significantly more opportunities, help small business owners keep more profit and employ drivers in the communities where they live. Next up, Samantha Smith is a young Philly actress who stole our hearts in the Peacock Original limited series, The Best Man: Final Chapters. Working in the industry for half of her life, Smith has booked national commercials, many voiceover gigs and a supporting role on The Last O.G.
Although he needs no introduction, DJ Jazzy Jeff “The Magnificent” is one of the most legendary artists to come out of Philadelphia becoming the first hip-hop recording to win a Grammy for best rap performance. DJ Jazzy Jeff is also one of the first hip-hop artists to take over our television screens. But there’s so much more to one of our favorite DJs, making history today during a groundbreaking performance celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. And yes, you’ll find out why the Philadelphia Eagles NFC Championship was Jeff’s first Eagles’ game he ever attended.
King Saladeen and Tiffani Barbour are taking Philadelphia’s arts & culture scene to the screen and Broadway! Self-taught and world-renowned visual artist King Saladeen not only recently worked on artwork for Netflix's ‘You People,’ but has also collaborated with the New York Stock Exchange, Neiman Marcus and much more! Also, the 1776 musical is launching its national tour in Philadelphia at the Forrest Theatre. Tiffani Barbour discusses the importance of having an all-female, transgender, and non-binary cast in a musical about the founding fathers discussing the declaration of independence.
Love + Grit is celebrating 50 Years of Hip Hop and continuing to tell Philly's most phenomenal stories. Musical mastermind Adam Blackstone joins the Love + Grit family for many reasons. To name a few: he is the reason many performers (Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, among others) are your favorite live show artist, he is the reason that you are still thinking about many Super Bowl Halftime shows, and most importantly he is Philly. And now after releasing his first studio album Legacy, he’s on the verge of winning a Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B. Should we go on?
Kevin Parker and Nakia and Taahirah Stith are three incredible Philadelphians walking the runway on this episode. Parker, a model turned designer, tells his story of how he created one of the country’s biggest fashion movements, Philly Fashion Week. The goal of the event, which has featured over 75 international brands and 1,000 local designers, was to develop the reputation of Philadelphia’s fashion industry, improving the local economy with jobs and educational opportunities in fashion. Next up Nakia and Taahirah, two dope sisters are celebrating one year at Dope Botanicals! The Rittenhouse shop has these healthy streets buzzing and offers visitors food, juice and other items to help you live a holistic lifestyle.
If you’re still looking for gift ideas, the hosts share their favorite Black-owned businesses around Philly!
We’re thankful for Rich Medina and Chef Kurt Evans promoting Philly’s most celebrated traits: arts and activism. International and legendary DJ Rich Medina shares with us his history expressing his heart, soul and activism through music for the last 30 years. Medina also provides the details surrounding Art Basel in Miami, why it’s important for the Black arts community and details about Love + Grit On The Road during Miami Art Week. Next up, Evans discusses bringing together food and activism to raise criminal justice reform awareness in America. Featured in major publications like Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, Good Morning America, and Eater, Evans also created the ground-breaking End Mass Incarceration (EMI) dining series which orchestrates dinners themed around the criminal justice system.
And if you’re looking for something to do in Philly other than drinking, the hosts provide their top things to do.
Chef Tonii Hicks and Steven CW Taylor are innovators and history makers. Hicks has worked in some of Philly’s most prestigious kitchens such as SOUTH and High Street Philly, and she’s also an activist, advocating for farm-fresh food in low-income communities. Most recently, Hicks was named a James Beard Foundation Fellow, enabling her to participate in 10 weeks of training in financial and legal matters, public relations, policy and advocacy, brand development and more. Taylor, owner of Ubuntu Fine Art, traded in his software-engineering job to pursue fine art photography. While doing this, he made history as the first Black photographer in the country to open his own gallery featuring exclusively his own works.
As always, the hosts discuss their favorite Philly things. This time around, the focus is on their must-do November activities.
Lori Lindsey and Khoran Horn might make you say, “Hey! I know them from TV!” Lindsey, a former United States women's national soccer team(USWNST) player and sports commentator, discusses her advocacy work for equal pay in sports and rights for trans athletes. She also dishes on the excitement about the FIFA World Cup™ coming to Philadelphia in 2026. At the other end of the table, Horn, owner of Guardhouse Café and winner of “It’s compli-plated!” on the Food Network, talks about how he’s never eaten meat — ever — and how he finds creative ways to make delicious dishes that taste like meat. The hosts also reveal their favorite scary Philly locations, including Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary.
This episode is bringing the heat. Shannon Maldonado returns to the podcast to fill us in on what’s new at Yowie and the biggest news in her life. Hint: it involves her opening a boutique hotel on South Street. Next up, Radhi Fernandez, owner of the Faiya Company, discusses how he got started with his hot sauce, his love for Philly and how Philly loves him right back. And yes, he’ll dish on where you can buy the hot sauce, including at the Reading Terminal Market.
Philly sports fans, this one’s for you! Get the scoop on what sports bars our hosts frequent to catch the game.
Food and fashion mix well in this episode. Just ask Chef Montana Houston, Chef Ja’mir Wimberly-Cole and Zakia Blain. First up, two of the hottest new chefs, both under 30, recently opened Rittenhouse Square’s Restaurant Aleksander. They’re putting their own spin on an American menu with Eastern European influences that pay homage to the culture and cuisine of the owner's family. Next up, Chester’s own Zakia Blain is celebrating 10 years working in the body-positivity space. This educator turned entrepreneur turned her Instagram movement into some of the best fitness fashion around. And if you’re hungry, listen up as Rachel, Justin and Laiya share their picks for Asian-owned restaurants.
Vikram and Vivek Nayar and Julieta Zavala are people we can rely on to talk about drinks and fashion! The Nayar twins, Two Robbers Seltzer Co. owners and founders, have lived all over the world, from New York City to New Delhi, but they decided to launch their brand of hard seltzers right here in Philly, because they believed it would be more interesting. Next up, fashion designer Zavala uses recycled materials to create vibrant pieces of clothing, each one an homage to her birthplace of Mexico City. She works with bright colors, various fabrics and even Frida Kahlo's image to reflect her roots.
The hosts also share their plans for Hispanic Heritage Month. No surprise that those plans include Dine Latino Restaurant Week!
On this episode, we have filmmaker Bilal Motley and chef Amanda Shulman. Motley's short animated film Quarantine Kids was an official selection at this year’s BlackStar Film Festival. Co-directed by his then 9-year-old daughter Bria, the film tells the courageous story of Bria's struggle through the COVID-19 pandemic. The film garnered the duo our first-ever Love + Grit Award! Next up, Her Place Supper Club owner and chef Amanda Shulman is doing things her way. Shulman whips up a menu that changes weekly, an ever-changing wine selection and reservations that need to be booked months in advance.
The hosts also share their top things to do in September.
We're taking you on a culinary journey with Dr. Maya, Dr. Kala Johnstone and Chef Hoon Rhee. Philly twins Dr. Maya and Dr. Kala began their careers as Philadelphia public school teachers, but soon felt the pull of their vision boards and decided to launch FoodChasers' Kitchen. Since opening in December 2021, they’ve cooked for memorable guests, including Salt-N-Pepa and Khelani, and were featured in a Pepsi commercial supporting Black-owned businesses. Philly born and bred, Chef Rhee was recently named executive chef at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. He’s done it all in the culinary industry, working as a line and pastry chef, bartender, barista and everything in between in restaurants around the world, including Philly’s Lacroix at The Rittenhouse Hotel, Jean-Georges Philadelphia, Morimoto, The Modern, Masa, Daniel and others. The hosts also share their perfect Philly itineraries.
Darrell Alston and Camille Bell are changing up the fashion and cosmetic industries respectively. Nationally recognized, Alston is the first Philadelphia brand designer to be carried in Footlocker with his company Bungee Oblečení. Bell is working to make everyone feel seen in the cosmetic world with her company Pound Cake. After seeing how a shade of lipstick on a model in a store looked different on her when she got home, she knew she needed to start creating inclusive makeup for all skin tones. Also, find out the hosts’ favorite places to watch movies outdoors (or indoors).
Philly is a city of champions, two of them being Travis Wolfe, Jr. and Kareem Rosser. Wolfe is a 16-year-old actor who’s been a show business veteran for a decade, starring in shows like Neighborhood and Grown-ish and most recently CBS’s Bob ❤️ Abishola. Next up, as an interscholastic polo champion, Rosser is everywhere including playing a major role in the inaugural Philadelphia Polo Classic. His biggest goal is to connect the two worlds of an elite sport to everyday folks in Philly. Also, find out which concerts in Philly our hosts are most excited for this summer!
Yaya Horne, Damion Ward and Eric “Bus Driver Doo” Lilley are showing off Philly in different ways, but spreading the love as they do. Horne and Ward, co-founders of Tiny Room for Elephants, discuss how their month-long festival fuses the work of artists and musicians committed to creating unexpected works. The inspiration for this year's festival is "'made with love and inspired by grit.” We like the sound of that! Next up is Lilley, a SEPTA bus driver who made a big impression on social media by sharing interesting stories from his routes. Over the years, he's watched passengers try to fit a mattress on his bus and doled out plenty of advice on how to be a good passenger.
Also, find out our hosts' favorite LGBTQIA+ business/spot in town!
Brandi Nicole and Brannon Johnson are two Philadelphians that know health and wellness! Nicole is the founder of Hike + Heal, which is so much more than hiking. With wellness retreats, healing circles, Nicole shows folks a way to find peace of mind in the City of Brotherly Love. Up next, we have Philly native Johnson, an elite accomplished athlete and head coach and owner of BLJ Community Rowing. A one of the most diverse community rowing programs in Philadelphia, Johnson is making sure the skill of rowing is available to all people of all backgrounds.
Also, find out what our hosts recommend to do in Philadelphia for July 4th weekend! Yes, it includes fireworks!
Suzann Christine, Gregory Corbin and Aja Graydon test their Philly knowledge live at the Roots Picnic. How well do you know your Reading Terminal Market merchants? Remember when the first Roots Picnic took place? Corbin, community activist, poet and educator, joins Team Justin, and Graydon, the lady from Kindred the Family Soul, and Christine, R&B artist, join Team Rachel for a good time and a great history lesson moderated by Laiya.
Pink Sweat$ and Dyana Williams represent the past, present and future of music. And that future is looking bright thanks to singer/ songwriter Pink Sweat$. Born and raised in West Philly, Sweat$ discusses how inspired he is by love—something that’s apparent on his newest album Pink Moon. Up next, Dyana Williams, the mother of Black Music Month, makes her return to Love + Grit. This time around, she talks about the importance of Black Music Month, how Black music has touched everyone in some way and what she’s been up to since her last podcast visit.
Siddiq Moore and Sofia Deleon are getting us in the mood for summertime with all their talk about water ice and street food. Siddiq of the eponymously named Siddiq’s Water Ice gives us the scoop about his shop being a community hub and his journey to owning two stores. And Deleon talks about how she brought her favorite childhood eats to Philly via El Merkury, serving up lauded Central American street food, and about what’s next for her.
Chef Kevin Cooper and DJ Diamond Kuts discuss the best of food and music. Chef Cooper is a three-time Food Network champion, winning ‘Guy’s Chance of a Lifetime,’ ‘Guy’s Grocery Games’ and ‘Cooks vs. Cons.’ He’s also launched one of Philly’s newest culinary offerings Succulent Imagination, a one-on-one cooking class, and will own and operate a Chicken Guy, a concept from Guy Fieri. DJ Diamond Kuts is a Philly-native making people dance globally. From traveling and performing on some of the biggest stages, including the Roots Picnic and the Philadelphia Flower Show, to hosting the new Yo! MTV Raps!
Two of Philly’s sons, Larry Miller and Mykey Cooper, take to the mic to share their stories of perseverance and hard work. Miller discusses his journey from juvenile offender to president of Nike’s Jordan Brand, and his controversial book, Jump: My Secret Journey from the Streets to the Boardroom. Next, Cooper breaks down how as a teenager, he balances major acting gigs and writing for the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, all while keeping those grades up.
Which women are considered to be the most powerful voices in Philadelphia? Laurin Talese and Patty Jackson are certainly contenders for this title. First up in this episode is Talese, a classically trained jazz singer who moved to Philly to further her vocal education and is the first cultural ambassador for American Music Abroad. The vice president of the city’s Grammy chapter is also releasing her second album. Up next, Jackson is a veteran radio personality whose voice has graced the airwaves of the city for four decades. She started in country radio and ended up in Philly for a long-term residence at WDAS FM.
Two people changing the game in sports and food: Kate Scott and JL Jupiter. Scott is used to making history. She was the first woman to call a men’s basketball game at the Olympics and the first to call an NFL game on the radio. And now she comes to Philadelphia as the first female announcer for the Philadelphia 76ers. Next up is Jupiter, a first generation immigrant that celebrates mom and pop restaurants and their international cuisines. His YouTube videos give an insider's look at his favorite restaurants and drive serious business to the spots he features.
Terrill Haigler and Jena Harris are two people who are all about love and grit. Born out of the 2020 pandemic, the West Philly Bunny Hop is a food pantry created by Harris that now feeds more than 350 families each week. Next up is Haigler, known as Ya Fav Trashman on social media. He talks about how starting a job as a sanitation worker inspired his activism and raising awareness for the sanitation industry. The fundraiser he led to purchase PPE, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies for sanitation workers soon turned into Trash2Treasure, a non-profit whose mission is to clean Philadelphia block by block.
Blew Kind and Dr. Sheena Howard are taking a creative approach to inspiring the next generation of activists in Philadelphia and beyond. Kind is the founder of Kensington-based Franny Lou’s Porch, named after Fannie Lou Hamer and Frances E.W. Harper, two influential Black women from the Civil Rights movement. The Afro-centric cafe is focused on activism, health, history, art and culture in the Black community. Next up is Howard, an award-winning author and professor at Rider University. She uses her passion for comic books and social justice to discuss representation in this space in her newly released book, “Why Wakanda Matters: What Black Panther Reveals About Psychology, Identity, and Communication.”
Love + Grit Season 3 kicks off with an all star reunion featuring Jeannine A. Cook, Chef Omar Tate and Cybille St. Aude-Tate who continue to amplify their visions and make Black history as they do. First, Cook discusses growing Harriett’s Bookshop nationwide, a visit from Will Smith, calls from Oprah and a vow of silence. Then, we catch up with TIME 100Next's Chef Omar Tate and his wife Cybille, founders of Honeysuckle Projects. The husband-and-wife duo are set to open their first brick-and-mortar this spring.
Dr. Janice Johnson Dias and Ellen Yin have both been sources of inspiration for women and girls, giving them spaces to grow and develop their skills to succeed in the face of adversity. Johnson Dias, the mother of 16-year-old activist and writer Marley Dias, talks about her new book “Parent Like It Matters: How to Raise Joyful, Change-Making Girls.” Wharton graduate, Ellen Yin, who owns High Street Hospitality Group, is one of the leading forces behind the Sisterly Love Collective (an alliance of women restaurateurs and food entrepreneurs responsible for the Sisterly Love Food Fair). Her recent ghost kitchen concept, The Wonton Project, is inspired by a family recipe and benefits local non-profits combatting social issues close to her heart.
PHILADANCO’s Dr. Joan Myers Brown is a true dance pioneer. After founding the Philadelphia Dance Company in 1970, she went on to create the International Association of Blacks in Dance and the International Conference of Black Dance Companies. As she steps down (but not away) from her role at PHILADANCO, she reflects on her achievements and the impact she has made on the dance community globally. Also on the show: Ben “BoxWon” Barnes-McGee, who will take break dancing to the 2024 Olympics for the first time ever with the help of the World Dance Sport Federation’s Breaking for Gold USA. This West Philadelphia native is a 4x World Champion Breaker and Founder of Bred2Burn, a hip-hop dance education and development mentorship program.
Khalil Munir is a performer, educator and author who has defied the odds and equips his students with the tools to do the same. His first book, The Crown is Yours, is inspired by the challenges he faced growing up with dyslexia, a disorder he turned into "his superpower." Also on this episode is Natalie Pompilio, talking about her new book, This USED to be Philadelphia. A former reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer and the Daily News, Pompilio has harnessed her Philly knowledge to write several books, and her newest is sure to open your eyes to the city’s best-kept secrets.
This episode features 15-year-old—yes 15-year-old —Trey Brown. The founder of SPERGO, a trendsetting streetwear and lifestyle brand, turned his passion for design and community into a six-figure company in only three years. One of the most sought-after youth speakers in the country, Brown has been featured on a billboard in Times Square, opened up two stores, received a key to the city and just received a deal on ABC’s Shark Tank. Also on this episode is Mz. Icar, the woman behind a dope (and anonymous) art collective creating works that celebrate women, global Blackness and play. Comprised primarily of Black women artists specializing in different media, this collective's work has been recognized by the art community’s most elite and is part of the Love + Grit Storefronts Project.
When it comes to visual arts in Philadelphia, Michelle Angela Ortiz is a local legend. Her work has been presented in all forms — on canvas, lightboxes, building walls and now TV screens with her first documentary, “Las Madres de Berks.” The New York Times recently shouted out the Moore College of Art grad with South Philly roots for her work in the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s New Grit exhibition. Also featured in The New York Times and on this episode of the podcast is Kensington-born Roberto Lugo, known as “The Ghetto Potter.” Roberto is reinventing the idea of fine China and will install a mural in honor of The Roots’ Black Thought on the Clay Studio building opening in Olde Kensington in spring 2022.
Jennifer Zavala kicked off Philadelphia’s birria taco craze with a graffiti truck and a pop-up shop at Underground Arts. Tune in to hear from the South Philly-based owner of Juana Tamale as she prepares for her brick-and-mortar opening later this year on Passyunk Ave. In Kensington, Nicholas Ducos and Francesca Galarus have opened the city's first independently owned urban winery with the goal of making wine more affordable and accessible. Hear about how Nicholas’ sommelier skills and Francesca's eye for arts and love of community has helped Mural City Cellars bloom into a welcoming destination for good wine and chill vibes.
Contributing to Philadelphia’s business community is a conscious effort for the two women featured on this episode. Tess Hart brought her mission to life in the Spring Arts District when she co-founded Triple Bottom Brewing, dedicated to putting people, the planet and profit on equal footing. In Centro de Oro’s Business District, Maria Gonzalez manages a $100 million budget for commercial and housing development. As president of the Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises (HACE), she’s charged with making sure the district's Good Lands 2025 plan, aimed at providing a road map for the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhoods, is executed.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a salsa song dedicated to Philly’s Latinx neighborhoods and a sip of the city's first Latinx-distilled whiskey. Strivers’ Row Distillery, based in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood, is owned and operated by Brooklyn ex-pat and the Al Día 40-Under-40-nominated Francisco Garcia. Also on the episode: Alba Martínez, who after a 12-year run at a top financial firm and 23 years dedicated to law, human services and government, is ready to use her expertise to fuel two of her passions: the financial wellness of women and minorities and Latinx arts. Her new salsa song “La Gua Gua 47” pays homage to SEPTA’s 47 bus route.
David and Aaron Cabello were delivering for Uber Eats and Caviar in Center City when they saw a hole in the market. They created Black and Mobile and became the first delivery service based in Philadelphia to partner with and highlight Black-Owned Businesses. Live music is back and the Vice President of Business Development and Operations at Live Nation Urban, Brandon Pankey, is working to build the industry back in the most inclusive way. From his Meet the Execs series on BlackStream Live to launching his own network, APEX, and not to mention producing Philly’s favorite picnic (yes -- the Roots one), Brandon is on a mission and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
This episode’s guests are two women inspired by their children to build thriving Philadelphia businesses. Charisse McGill combined her farmers market expertise and inspiration from her daughter to launch Lokal Artisan Foods. As the first Black woman to vend at Spruce Street Harbor Park and the first Black woman in Pennsylvania with her own craft beer, she’s just getting started. When Tina Dixon Spence could not find a baby store that matched her son’s burgeoning style, she created Buddha Babe, a luxury design studio focusing on accessories for babies, toddlers and the home (and kids parties). She fearlessly launched her Mt. Airy brick-and-mortar amidst a pandemic and aims to make the shop a staple in neighborhoods across the city.
The BlackStar Film Festival, also known as “Black Sundance,” is the nation’s premier fest for Black, Brown and Indigenous filmmakers. And it’s centered in Philly! On this episode of Love + Grit, hear from local directors screening their work at the 2021 festival. West Philly neighbors and respected filmmakers Raishad M. Hardnett and Aidan M. Un teamed up to produce a short film about Harriett’s Bookshop in Fishtown for the 10th annual festival’s “Stories in Place” series about small businesses. And Nasya Jenkins discusses her short documentary From Digital Divide to Digital Equity about Philly activists leading the fight for digital equity in education.
You can’t talk about Philly’s hip-hop scene without mentioning Lady B and Bri Steves. These two women are essential to the city’s place in the music industry. One of the first female rappers, Lady B recorded her first single, To the Beat, Y’all, in 1979. The “Godmother of Hip-Hop” has been blazing trails ever since as a performer, DJ and podcaster, paving the way for stars like Bri Steves. East Falls native and Temple University grad Steves has opened for H.E.R., Mary J. Blige, Pharrell and Kendrick Lamar, and landed a BET nomination for her song ANTI QUEEN. Her debut album drops July 30, 2021.
Ask anyone to name the most iconic Philadelphians and Questlove is top of the list. The West Philly native is the drummer for The Roots and musical director of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon; cofounder of digital music and media platforms Okayplayer and OkayAfrica; a James Beard Award-nominated cookbook author; plant-based cheesesteak maker and more. He joins Love + Grit to talk about his career, health and his latest project, Summer of Soul, debuting in theaters and on Hulu on July 2, 2021. With the new film comes a new look: A dramatic weight loss that Questlove attributes in part to better sleeping and breathing. Tune in for a rare discussion of the music icon’s deeply personal journey.
As the birthplace of a new nation, Philadelphia sees independence not just as a single day, but a full season that bridges the celebrations of Juneteenth and July 4th. The guests on this episode of Love + Grit have devoted their careers to centering the stories of African Americans and the African Diaspora. Ivan Henderson is the vice president of programming at The African American Museum in Philadelphia, who has curated Juneteenth events that will join the City of Philadelphia’s 2021 Wawa Welcome America Festival. The expansion of events will explore the historical significance of the two holidays and their themes of freedom and liberty. Kamau Ware brings the Black Gotham multimedia project to Philly, joining a series of walking tours, events and art collections that aim to celebrate the history and culture of African American and Black communities in Philadelphia.
Philly’s music scene is one of love, authenticity and community, with people like Kenny Gamble, Dyana Williams and Patti LaBelle supporting and producing unforgettable beats created in the City of Brotherly Love. Today’s hitmakers keep it real. West Philly’s Beano French and North Philadelphia’s Brianna Castro join the Love + Grit hosts in this episode to talk about their burgeoning music careers as Philly — and the nation — celebrates Black Music Month. Both artists are part of the Love + Grit Concert Series Presented by VISIT PHILADELPHIA®, an original series streamed exclusively on BlackStream Live, a new Twitch channel delivering curated live programming focused on Black culture, premiering June 1, 2021.
Two inspiring creators representing Latinx communities join this episode of Love + Grit to discuss their work, their influences and the challenges of turning major artistic experiences into virtual events. Nayara Lopes got her start in Brazil before eventually moving to Philadelphia to join the Pennsylvania Ballet, where the first soloist has starred in The Nutcracker and Cinderella, and is currently filming a new season of original performances for digital audiences. Also going virtual this year: the 10th annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, led by Marángeli Mejía Rabell. The Puerto Rican-born arts and culture organizer and cofounder of AFROTAINO has turned PHLAFF into an international event that elevates U.S.-based Latinx and Latin American stories.
Dine Latino Restaurant Week is a way for Philadelphians — and all who visit — to support the growth of local businesses and taste the flavors of Colombian, Mexican, Dominican and other cultures. More than 20 restaurants offer deals for the spring 2021 edition of Restaurant Week, and the guests on this episode have dedicated their careers to supporting the work of Philadelphia’s Latinx communities and food businesses. Jennifer Rodríguez, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shares details of the many incredible restaurants serving authentic Latin flavors and discusses her work advocating for the 22,000 Latinx-owned business in the Greater Philadelphia region. One of those restaurants is Sazon, Chef Judy Suzarra-Campbell’s Venezuelan spot that makes amazing arepas as part of an almost entirely gluten-free menu.
Poet, recording artist and native Philadelphian Ursula Rucker has created a legacy for herself in print, in the studio and even in augmented reality. Whether she’s leading vocals for DJ King Britt, collaborating with The Roots or releasing her own book of haikus, Rucker is always advancing the city’s arts and culture scene. She’s now the virtual reality host of OverTime, an augmented reality app from public art and history studio Monument Lab, which allows users to tour portions of Philadelphia using their phones. On the musical side of things, Orrin Evans continues to make Philly proud. The City of Brotherly Love-raised jazz pianist has more than 25 albums to his credit, his own record label and a focus on helping young, innovative musicians. Any Philly music history lesson is incomplete without Rucker and Evans.
If there’s one thing you need to know about Philly’s food scene it’s that the space is full of people who use their culinary talents to give back. Look no further than Michael Carter and Muhammad Abdul-Hadid of Down North Pizza. Their North Philadelphia pizza-and-wings joint serves delicious, inventive pies and exclusively employs formerly incarcerated individuals as part of its mission to reduce recidivism rates in Black communities. Dustin Vitale also knows a thing or two about using food for good. The middle school history teacher turned his love of cheesesteaks into a Philly-wide effort to help his mom achieve something big. He chats with hosts Justin, Rachel and Laiya in this episode all about two things Philadelphia does best: food and community.
Debra Powell-Wright has a long history in Philadelphia of elevating Black, Brown and African-descended women’s voices. As the founder of the city’s first female spoken word ensemble, a published essayist and social justice artist, Powell-Wright is credited with building a sisterhood. She joins the Love + Grit hosts to talk about her career and her latest work, For Women: In Tribute to Nina Simone, a collection of short stories and poems. In keeping with the theme of community and healing, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin also welcome Kiki Aranita. The Poi Dog Philly founder brought local Hawaiian cooking to Philly, but had to close her beloved restaurant in the face of COVID-19. She recounts her story about pivoting to ecommerce as a way to support herself and continue sharing her history.
On this episode of Love + Grit, meet two women making a monumental impact on the arts and education. Kimberly McGlonn’s sustainable clothing line and West Philadelphia storefront Grant Blvd sources reclaimed fabrics manufactured exclusively in Philadelphia and supports people who were previously incarcerated — one of the social issues this doctor of philosophy (and Jenkintown Borough council member) is most passionate about. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin also welcome Dyymond Whipper-Young, a Temple University graduate and arts educator who most recently made national headlines for creating the biggest drawing in the world made by one person as part of the Crayola IDEAworks exhibit at The Franklin Institute. Hear more from these two inspiring guests making waves during Women’s History Month and beyond.
This episode kicks off with Hakim’s Bookstore owner Yvonne Blake and a discussion about community building. She runs the shop — one of the oldest African American bookstores in the country — that her father opened in West Philadelphia in 1959. Then, the hosts catch up with Will Toms and Dave Silver, two multi-talented Philadelphians making names for themselves and making space for Black creators. The pair, who made Forbes’ 2021 30 Under 30 list, founded studio/shop/production house/event space REC Philly to put the city’s creative economy into the hands of makers. Their grant-funded #BlackMusicCity project helps Black creators pursue their goals. Tune in to hear how these passionate Philadelphians are creating real, sustainable change by sharing knowledge and resources.
Season 2 of Love + Grit kicks off with love and positive energy. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome Tommy and Codie Elaine Oliver, the power couple behind Black Love Inc. After Philly native Tommy met Codie Elaine at a film festival, the two poured their passion for storytelling into a multimedia company and digital platform that’s worked with Viola Davis, Tia Mowry and other celebrities to tell dynamic stories of love that often go overlooked, including their Doula Dads series featuring Sterling K. Brown. The positive vibes continue with Crystal Streets, a jeweler and diamond concierge (and proud Central High School grad from Mt. Airy!) — who works with ethically sourced materials and healing crystals to make sure stars like Rihanna, Jay-Z and Mariah Carey look — and feel — stunning.
On this episode of Love + Grit, meet two of the women drawing the world’s attention to Philadelphia. Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon is racking up accolades for her South Philly restaurant, Kalaya Thai Kitchen. Most recently: a 2020 James Beard Award nomination for Best New Restaurant and Esquire’s Best Restaurant in America. Nok talks to hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin about what brought her to Philly, how business has changed during the pandemic and, of course, her delicious food. Next up, Delaware County-based film producer Jenifer Westphal (Athlete A, Knock Down the House, Won’t You Be My Neighbor) discusses helping women and nonbinary filmmakers of color and chats about her latest documentary, Maybe Next Year, which tells the story of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning season through the eyes of diehard fans.
Harriett’s Bookshop has been open less than a year, but owner Jeannine A. Cook has already turned the space into a community hub elevating and celebrating Black women’s voices. Her independent Fishtown bookstore is thriving — even though it opened just as COVID-19 safety precautions closed some Philadelphia storefronts — thanks to Cook’s focus on activism and empowerment. She joins hosts Laiya, Justin and Rachel on this episode of Love + Grit, along with author Cheldin Barlatt Rumer, CEO and host of Center City-based This is it TV, whose new book, Scream Your Dream: How to Build an Effective Personal Brand, helps readers leverage their personal experiences to develop an authentic, powerful voice.
Philly chefs have a way of weaving their experiences into their culinary creations so the result is irresistible, unforgettable food. In this episode of Love + Grit, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome two talented people who’ve recently returned to the City of Brotherly Love with incredible stories and the food to match. Germantown native Chef Omar Tate worked his way up from Philadelphia hotel kitchens to private chef life and even the Smithsonian before returning to his hometown, where he’s cooking up flavors of the Black experience and funding a community center. And Executive Chef Robert Watson, who entered the Philly service industry as a teen, flew back from Arizona to open Steak 48 on the Avenue of the Arts. But COVID-19 had other plans, so Watson found an interim gig — volunteering to help end hunger.
Philly brings it on the big screen and on the stage, and the guests on this episode of Love + Grit work behind the scenes to make it all happen, proving that the heart and soul of a travel destination are the people we meet. Shawn Finnie’s journey is an incredible example of our city’s resilience and grit. His career path brought him from Philly to experiencing homelessness in New York City to Los Angeles, where he now works for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, ensuring that diverse voices and backgrounds aren’t just represented, but also engaged and activated. And in Philly, Wilma Theater Managing Director Leigh Goldenberg — also the brains behind the annual Philly Theatre Week — joins the conversation to discuss efforts to increase diversity on local stages and expand the prestigious Barrymore Awards with honors for gender-inclusive performances.
Two Philadelphia powerhouses talk creativity and hospitality in this episode of Love + Grit. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome YOWIE founder Shannon Maldonado to discuss how her background working with top fashion brands led to the development of her popular storefront, creative brand and design studio. While Maldonado keeps Philly stylish, Jezabel Careaga keeps the city fed. The entrepreneur and cook runs the beloved Jezabel’s Cafe in West Philadelphia, where she serves up traditional foods from her native Argentina and is hard at work establishing her new furniture studio. Tune in to hear these two talented women share their stories, and learn how their successes have helped Philadelphia shine.
Hospitality can change a neighborhood and nurture its culture. Just ask Valerie Safran and Marcie Turney, whose Safran Turney Hospitality has transformed 13th Street in Philly’s Gayborhood with top restaurants like Barbuzzo and beloved shops like Open House. After catching up with the power duo, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin chat with self-taught photographer Antoino Johnson, whose new book, You Next: Reflections in Black Barber Shops, captures the sacred spaces where Black male identity is fostered.
This episode of Love + Grit is all about delicious beverages of the fermented variety —no surprise, since Philly is a city that takes beer seriously. Jamaar Julal of Philly-headquartered JamBrü kicks things off as he breaks down the mystery of kombucha —that delicious, trendy, good-for-you fermented tea. And hosts Laiya, Justin and Rachel also welcome Love City Brewing owners Kevin and Melissa Walter to discuss innovation and activism in the beer community, which has a deep history in Philadelphia. Tune in to hear how these Philadelphia beverage makers are adapting to the ever-evolving coronavirus world and welcoming visitors in search of a cold one.
Kenny Gambleis a true Philadelphia treasure. The “Sound of Philadelphia” he created with his partner Leon Huff has put Philly on the music map. Almost 50 years and tons of gold and platinum albums later, Gamble continues his legacy by reinvesting in the South Philly community where he grew up. We'll hear how he has evolved his “Message in the Music” motto into a video podcast.
Rob Wassrman proudly helms Rouge, Rittenhouse Square’s see-and-be-seen restaurant for more than 20years now, along with other neighborhood favorites Audrey Claire and Twenty Manning. With priorities of fine dining shifting as a result of COVID-19, Wasserman has been focused on supporting families in need of a healthy meal. We'll hear why the "We Are Philly” campaign is delivering for Philadelphians and so many others.
In this episode, our podcast hosts chat with two Philadelphians who are a cut above the rest: one cuts meat, the other cuts hair.
Since she founded Primal Supply Meats in 2016, Heather Marold Thomason has continually taken the business to new heights. She started by providing meats to notable Philly chefs. Now she supports more than a dozen regional farmers and a family-owned slaughterhouse, and runs neighborhood butcher shops inSouth Philly and Brewerytown.
People often ask, “Who’s the barber that’s the man in Philly?”The answer is Faheem Alexander, a Philly superstar, based on what he can do to both your beard and your head.
Our hosts chat with an actor (Nakia Dillard) and an MC (Chill Moody) this week. First up: Nakia Dillard, who takes his role of Philadelphia actor very seriously. Dillard developed his acting chops here in the City of Brotherly Love. And although he’s appeared in numerous productions (Black Lightning, The Wire)—at least 80 and counting—he has never left Philadelphia physically. Learn how and why he does it, and get the scoop on his favorite place to chill in Philly.
Next up is arguably Philly’s hardest working MC: Chill Moody. The Philly music ambassador works hard for his hometown. His lyrical storytelling is deeply rooted in Philadelphia stories, and his community activism often offers opportunities to other burgeoning Philly talent. Hear why Moody is a Philly faithful, and find out what two flavors of water ice he mixes together.
In this episode, our hosts talk to two dope Philly ladies: one who feeds our bellies in all kinds of delicious ways and another who feeds our souls through the characters she plays.
Philly foodies know Talula’s. There’s Talula’s Table in Kennett Square and Talula’s Garden and Talula’s Daily in Philadelphia’s Washington Square neighborhood. That’s all thanks to West Chester’s own Aimee Olexy, who brings the deliciousness to each one ofthese places.
Next up: a conversation with a Lancaster-born, Philly-bred MC who is a Yale School of Drama graduate, recipient of the prestigious Princess Grace Award and Leonore Annenberg Fellowship for Performing Arts. Her name is Miriam A. Hyman. You know her from shows like Blue Bloods, Grey's Anatomy, NCIS, Orange is the New Black, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Master of None, Law & Order, The Wire and The Laundromat. She currently stars in season three of Showtime's The CHI and has a new album out under her MC moniker Robyn Hood. Among many things, Miriam dishes on her favorite Philly cheesesteak place: Dalessandro’s in Roxborough.
We talk to two of our favorite folks from the local sports scene: Tom McCarthy, voice of The Phillies, and Jazmine Smith, leading the charge to diversify field hockey and lacrosse.
With baseball about to return, our hosts check in with the man who knows everything about the Phillies. Tom McCarthy speaks to us about life in and out of Citizens Bank Park.
For the last 18 years, Jasmine Smith has been a force to get girls of color to play lacrosse and field hockey. She updates us on how her athletes are staying active on the field and in the community.
To get to the root of festival life, we called in the big bosses!
This episode begins with Shawn Gee, who honed his management skills with legendary Roots manager Rich Nichols. Over the years, Gee has managed the Roots and Jill Scott and served as business manager for Drake, Nicki Minaj, Meek Mill, Lil Wayne and a slew of others. He's also the president of Live Nation Urban. Gee gives us the lowdown on this year’s virtual Roots Picnic, which he has produced in Philly for over a decade now.
Also virtual this year, Wawa Welcome America, Philadelphia’s annual Fourth of Julyfestival. So what’s in store this year? The festival’s CEO, Michael Delbene, gives us the scoop on the big acts and how and where they’ll be performing live.
While the country is going through a cycle of change, Philadelphia offers some hope. Rachel, Laiya and Justin dive into a couple of remarkable Philadelphia stories for a special edition of Love + Grit.
The mother of Black Music Month, media personality and strategist, Dyana Williams, has been a Philly tastemaker for over 40 years. She’s the person celebrities call when their mouths get them in trouble. She’s also the inspiration behind some of your favorite love songs and the reason Black Music Month is recognized worldwide.
Next, our hosts chat with VINCINT. You know him from the hit show The Four, and now you can hear his voice on the new season of Queer Eye that's based in Philadelphia. VINCINT shares his Philly story and talks about how he’s utilizing his platform for change.
Philadelphia native Angela Nissel, one of Hollywood’s most in-demand writers, gained popularity with her blockbuster memoir “The Broke Diaries: The Completely True and Hilarious Misadventures of a Good Girl Gone Broke” and as a producer and writer on hit television shows “Mixed-ish,” “Scrubs,” “The Boondocks” and more. She joins Laiya, Rachel and Justin to discuss her journey in entertainment.
Then, NBC10’s Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle tells us about her conversations with Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola, teaming up with Yuengling for “Cheers PA,” and, Davida Janae, the local fashion blogger keeping us polished and stylish while working from home.
Spike Eskin, program director for SportsRadio94WIP, laces ’em up and hits the (virtual) hardwood with our hosts to end the episode. A second-generation Philadelphia sports talk radio personality and host of “The Rights to Ricky Sanchez,” Spike explains the origins of his name and his podcast’s name and speculates about the future of sports during the pandemic.
Nicole Marquis, owner of HipCityVeg, Charlie was a sinner and Bar Bombón, has always kept a dizzying pace at the office. This week, she gives listeners an insider's view of her life during the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes keeping her restaurants open for takeout and delivery and working to help the city’s restaurant industry recover.
Then, NBC10Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle joins to tell the stories of Dolaine Benjamin ‒ a licensed nail technician now making press-on nail kits for her clients ‒ and Stuff’d Buns ‒ a local food truck owned by Rachel Knable and Monica Magalhaes ‒ parlaying one good deed into weeks of feeding those on the front lines.
Love + Gritwraps after a conversation with Syreeta Scott, owner of Duafe Holistic Hair Care. Syreeta has worked with Janet Jackson, Ava DuVernay, Jill Scott and Questlove and talks to Rachel, Justin and Laiya to discuss adapting her business to fit her clients’ needs and the importance of hair care and body care to mental health.
Rachel, Justin and Laiya talk to a 2020 James Beard Awards nominee and Top Chef winner: chef Nick Elmi (owner of Philadelphia’s Laurel, ITV and Royal Boucherie). In this episode, he shares his theories about the current bread-baking craze and his ingredient-foraging adventures with his son.
Then, our hosts check in with DJ Diamond Kuts, the first female mixer on Philadelphia radio. The Philadelphia native, born Tina Dunham, has worked with former President Barack Obama, Nicki Minaj and Lil Uzi Vert, and has spun at Roots Picnic. She gets real with our hosts about her rock-and-roll-loving son and how exploring new creative outlets are improving her mental health.
Laiya, Rachel and Justin talk to Philadelphia’s own Eugene “Man-Man” Roberts about being John Legend’s musical director, Instagram Live etiquette and Twitch, the leading live-streaming platform.
Next, NBC10 Philly Live’s Auynea Lachelle introduces us to three West Chester University students thanking first responders and other heroes for their work during the COVID-19 crisis.
And finally, our hosts speak with John Fazio, founder and CEO of Nerd Street Gamers, about how gaming provides important connections in many communities and about the lasting impact of an impromptu Christmas Day trip he took as a child.
On this week’s Love + Grit, Rachel, Justin and Laiya spend time with James Beard Award nominee Eli Kulp, the chef behind Fork, High Street On Market and High Street Hospitality Group and host of The CHEF Radio Podcast. They talk with Kulp about how he reinvented his life following a 2015 Amtrak crash that left him paralyzed and his new podcast, which explores all aspects of the food and restaurant industry.
Next, Aunyea Lachelle, host of NBC10’s Philly Live, shares black hair care tips from some local stylists and stories from fashion designers getting a boost from the Philadelphia Fashion & Garment Industry Task Force. She also reports on daily deliveries that hospital workers are receiving from Simply Good Jars.
Finally, the hosts speak to Nasheli Juliana Ortiz-González ‒ fashion designer and department chair at Moore College of Art & Design and contestant on the Netflix’s “Next in Fashion” ‒ and Marién Vélez ‒ lighting designer and founder of 22 Studio ‒ about how they’re creating high-concept ways to keep us safe and stylish.
While spending time at home and talking about the region they love so much, the Love + Grit hosts kick off this episode by sharing their favorite regional craft breweries offering delivery before discussing vegetarian cuisine and the future of the restaurant industry with Vedge owners and James Beard Award honorees Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby. Then, Laiya, Rachel and Justin catch up with NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle, who shares the story of 11-year-old boxing twins Steven and Daniel Grandy and gives the details on Xyntek, the Bucks County engineering firm creating and donating personal protective equipment to healthcare workers. Next, the trio talks with Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon of the husband-and-wife music duo Kindred the Family Soul about the challenges of being at home full time with six children, the importance of celebrating Juneteenth and their upcoming album
In another episode that finds our hosts heeding Mayor Kenney’s advice to stay at home and keep each other safe, Laiya, Rachel and Justin talk to Charlie Mack about his unofficial roles as Philadelphia’s Big Brother and star-maker (Will Smith, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Bryshere Gray). Next, they have a conversation with Aunyea Lachelle, host of NBC10’s Philly Live, about the importance of fostering pets during this time – before providing an update on her postponed wedding plans.
The episode wraps with tips for staying entertained while at home. First, you’ll need a pen and paper to write down TV and movie streaming recommendations from Maori Karmael Holmes, founder of the BlackStar Film Festival. Then, master mixologist Andre Darlington shares the secret to a perfect cocktail (a breakfast martini?) and suggests the best cocktail-and-music pairings.
In this special episode of Love + Grit, designed to help all of us get through COVID-19, we embrace the importance of laughter, as we listen to our guests tell us about how they’re navigating through these uncertain times. First, Temple University and Cardinal Dougherty High School alum and Philadelphia comic TuRae Gordon talks to Rachel, Laiya and Justin about writing new material and really getting to really know his wife during this extended stay at home. Then, Aunyea Lachelle, host of NBC’s Philly Live, joins the podcast to talk about more good news: the ‘hunger heroes’ of the Share Food program and Save Philly Eats. Finally, Iron Chef and James Beard Award winner Jose Garces drops in from his kitchen - in the midst of living his best #DadLife - to discuss how he’s keeping his family busy, the current state of the restaurant business and what he’s cooking at home.
On this week’s episode of Love + Grit, our hosts begin to emphasize the people of Greater Philadelphia and their stories of positivity, ingenuity and compassion in response to the impact of COVID-19 on our region. First, Jennifer Carroll, Top Chef finalist, Philadelphia native and Spice Finch executive chef, joins the hosts to share easy make-at-home recipes, talk about how to best support restaurant employees (Spice Finch Relief Fund; Save Philly Restaurants petition) and show off her bunnies: Turkey, Pickle and Lil’ Joanie. Then, Aunyea Lachelle, host of valued VISIT PHILADELPHIA broadcast partner NBC10’s ‘Philly Live’, joins in for a new weekly segment that highlights the region’s many acts of kindness and hope. This week, her focus is on “Handwash,” a song from a group of young men from the Caring People Alliance after-school program at R.W. Brown Community Center.
Note: Love + Grit is here to inform and bring the fun, but we want you to know that this episode was recorded before COVID-19. Going forward, we’ll focus on sharing stories of the region’s vibrancy and the fun we’ll have when Philly is Philly again. As always, we stand with you, and thank you for standing with us. P.S.: Wash your hands! There is light at the end of the tunnel! - LSC, RF & JP
This week on Love + Grit, Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi meet West Philadelphia-born DJ Aktive to discuss his work with Janet Jackson, Kanye West and The Roots. Then, Ursula Augustine, cosmetology expert and founder of Ursula’s About Phace Rittenhouse Studio, shows Rachel and Laiya how to create the perfect brow – using a familiar test subject. The episode ends at The Notary Hotel, as our hosts dive deep into why Justin loves their cocktail menu and authentic Spanish tapas.
In the first episode of Love + Grit, learn why hosts Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi love Philadelphia as much as they do (and why you should too) before they chat with three women making an impact on the city.
First, they talk to Rashia Bell (The Cristalline), West Philadelphia native and crystal designer for the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, about the healing power of crystals and how special it was for her to return to her hometown. Next, they stop at The Colored Girls Museum to hear from founder Vashti DuBois about Sunday hair sessions, the museum’s unexpected superhero exhibits and the lives and accomplishments of the everyday African-American women featured here. Then, Patrice Banks, founder of Girls Auto Clinic (GAC), gives a quick lesson in car repair with her all-female team of auto mechanics.
Love + Grit: two words often associated with Philadelphia, the City of Sisterly Love. Impossible to define, Philadelphia has long been regarded as an underdog city. That is no longer the case.
This uniquely Philadelphia podcast uses the authentic and diverse stories of the city to inspire all people — visitors and locals alike — to visit (or re-visit) the region. It gives listeners an insider’s look at the Philadelphians people should know, the foods they should try and the attractions they should explore — many of which are under-the-radar and unexpected. Love + Grit is hosted by Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi.