The PowerPLAY Show: Recent Episodes
Tonia Magras
On The PowerPLAY Show, we take on issues and guests and allow them to think about how power plays into the success and failures of our world. We'll ask the questions YOU want to know the answers to. We'll take on the hard topics and find the answer for those in and who desire power. Listen to The PowerPLAY Show each Thursday at ThePowerPLAYShow.com or search for The PowerPLAY Show where you listen to your podcasts.
Her name says it all! Once prisoned by thoughts of not being good enough, strong enough, or worthy enough – she found her answer in a bottle. But she no longer lives in that prison. Ayanna Freedom discusses how she became FREE from addiction and how she’s helping others like herself make that brave step forward. That’s next on The PowerPLAY Show.
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Arts in Boston is taking on a new life form – thanks to the contributions of some very famous local artists and a partnership with the Bay State Banner and the Museum of Fine Arts! It’s the Virtual Art Gallery Project and it’s going down on February 29th! That’s next week! We have the Editor and Publisher of The Bay State Banner Ron Mitchell and a PowerPLAY favorite, artist Rob Stull to talk about this exciting new initiative – you don’t want to miss it!
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This week on The PowerPLAY Show – it’s the holiday season, and whether you celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, or Kwanza, there’s always room for that special something for that special someone. So, if you’re looking for some last-minute gift ideas, tune in as we celebrate small businesses - coming up next on The PowerPLAY Show!
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Co-host Kimberly Perez flips the tables on producer, director, and editor Tonia Magras discussing her new documentary film, More Than Our Skin!
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From as long as he can remember – Jubaa was in love with music. He attended the Dr. Phillips High School’s Visual and Performing Arts Program, where he achieved numerous academic and musical distinctions, and his accomplishments continued through Belmont University and the esteemed Berklee College of music.
Jubaa is a singer, songwriter, pianist, composer, and record producer – whose work culminated in the highly-competitive Disney Dreamers Academy, where he won top honors as Disney Dreamers Academy Dreamer of the Year and the Ne-Yo, yes that guy – Entertainment Award, where he also earned an internship with the Grammy award winning artist.
But there’s more to this very talented young man.
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Recording Artist. Singer/Songwriter. Music Coach. Mentor. (Mostly) Punctual Carpool Dad...
After teaching music full time for over a decade, Michael Daughtry left his comfort zone to pursue his passion for musical connection as a recording artist. Michael was born in a tiny North Carolina town to an elementary school teacher and an agricultural entrepreneur. Discovering his grandmother’s piano at age 3, his musical devotion grew throughout his childhood, even though he admits he has yet to get that drum set he once requested on his Christmas list. Happily married and sharing his love of music with his school-age daughter, he remains dedicated to his local community.
Learn more at: michaeldaughtrymusic.com
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a month to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce the stigma so many experience
We talk to the counseling couple Kadeem and Sade Massiah on Mental Health - Beginning with the Basics - next on the PowerPLAY Show.
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From Civil Rights to Social Justice - for the last several years, attacks on our judicial system have permeated our news stories – from the White House to the Black Lives Matter movement. We’ve paid particular attention to who is prosecuted and why - and asked ourselves if our scales of balance need to be recalibrated.
Among those working to fight against this imbalance is Kenneth Edelin, Jr. an unrelenting for the underserved, underprivileged, and underrepresented.
His passion is in client-centered advocacy for those most challenged by historic injustice, discrimination, and powerlessness.
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Each season of the PowerPLAY Show – we premiere with renowned artist and dear friend Rob Stull. In the past, we’ve delved into conversations about art and culture, music – specifically hip hop, his work in museums around Boston, and even paid homage to his late father Donald Stull – the pioneering architect of the historic firm, Stull & Lee, Inc.
And this year – we kick off in the tradition of the powerplay show – however a bit different. Rob will be with us later this season, so until then we thought we would look back at some of the topics we’ve covered over the past three years in this special The Best of Rob Stull.
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Welcome to our season 3 finale of the PowerPLAY Show! On our final episode of the year, we are going to discuss my top 5 stories of the year – and my guests will share what their story of the year is.
Joining me for the season finale is my former boss and dear friend Linda Polach, former Executive Producer WGBH and Executive Director of the GBH studio at the Boston Public Library; Attorney Joseph Feaster, Counsel at Dain, Torpy, Le Ray, Wiest & Garner, P.C.; and Adrian Walker, Associate Editor and Columnist for the Metro Section of the Boston Globe.
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This week on The PowerPLAY Show – We’re almost a week away from mid-term elections. Locally, our next Governor and Attorney General are at stake. Nationally, races in Georgia and Florida are make news. We’ll break down what’s at stake with my guest George Chip Greenidge - coming up next on The PowerPLAY Show!
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As we start the new school year – and for some it has already started, I thought this would be a good time to sit down with some children’s book authors. First up – the authors of Aiden’s Spots. Aiden's Spots follows Aiden on his 1st day of school as he begins Kindergarten. Aiden has Vitiligo and is unsure what to expect or even how to explain it if called upon. Authors Tierza and Justin Hall are my guests this week.
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Wendy McAdams-Flores – once thriving as an advocation for social services in New Jersey as well as an educator in both New Jersey and North Carolina became a victim of the enormity of mental health in the COVID era.
She lost 14 family members to covid and quickly realized her symptoms of anxiety and depression were too hard to manage any longer.
Eventually, Wendy began seeking support through Counseling and joining community Christian groups, whose members are also living with anxiety and depression.
She now shares her story in hopes of helping others in her same path.
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Rosa Rodriguez Williams has devoted her life and career to help build communities where everyone feels they can fully participate, create, learn, engage, and thrive. She is committed to and passionate about not only advancing organizational diversity and inclusion practices, but also on the development and uplifting of its people.
Currently, Rosa is the Executive Director of the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion at Northeastern University whose mission is to value and celebrate diversity in all its forms. Prior to her current position, Rosa was the inaugural senior director of belonging and inclusion at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where she assessed equity pressure points, built capacity, and facilitated solutions for departments across the museum. The first position of its kind and the esteemed institution.
She has dedicated her entire career ensuring that everyone – particularly those in marginalized populations feel included, welcomed, and accepted.
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You never know what will happen when Yolanda A. Barnes, better known as Yogii with 2 I's, hits the stage. From poetry that will make you sit on the edge of your seat, to words that will make you stand to your feet. Even giving you a little comedy, singing a soulful song that will have you swooning, or a freestyle not to forget. You can best believe that you will get a show to remember.
Writing since 13, Yogii started penning raps, until one day it turned into something more...after showing it to a friend, it was decided that "This is poetry" and from that point on, poetry was all that was written. Although poetry was not the only creative outlet, this multitalented artist has over time become a photographer, graphic designer, visual merchandiser, author, spoken word artist, motivational speaker, and recording artist. Yogii draws from all her talents and life experiences when she hits the stage.
Currently, Yogii can be found cultivating new artists and creatives through workshops and consulting sessions. She is proud to announce a new book in the works and shows booked that will have Yogii on a stage this year. Poetry, motivational speaking, running workshops, the slam, and features, no matter the capacity, and your special events, Yogii (with 2 I's) is the poet that you have been waiting to hear.
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On this special week-long edition of the PowerPLAY RePLAY - I’m celebrating some women in power who are near to my heart. And are part of this weekend’s World Vitiligo Day Conference in Minnesota. I’m so proud to be a part of this community who live to support and empower people living with Vitiligo - the focus of the upcoming film documentary, More Than Our Skin.
As I’ve been sharing over the past year, I’ve been working on this project - focusing on the lives of five women: Valarie, Katrina, Millicent, Alicia, and Patricia - all living Vitiligo.
So each day this week, you will hear a bit of their journeys and how their pain became their purpose to help others in their communities.
It’s a special week-long PowerPLAY RePLAY with Millicent Meadows!
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On this special week-long edition of the PowerPLAY RePLAY - I’m celebrating some women in power who are near to my heart. And are part of this weekend’s World Vitiligo Day Conference in Minnesota. I’m so proud to be a part of this community who live to support and empower people living with Vitiligo - the focus of the upcoming film documentary, More Than Our Skin.
As I’ve been sharing over the past year, I’ve been working on this project - focusing on the lives of five women: Valarie, Katrina, Millicent, Alicia, and Patricia - all living Vitiligo.
So each day this week, you will hear a bit of their journeys and how their pain became their purpose to help others in their communities.
It’s a special week-long PowerPLAY RePLAY with Katrina Christian!
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On this special week-long edition of the PowerPLAY RePLAY - I’m celebrating some women in power who are near to my heart. And are part of this weekend’s World Vitiligo Day Conference in Minnesota. I’m so proud to be a part of this community who live to support and empower people living with Vitiligo - the focus of the upcoming film documentary, More Than Our Skin.
As I’ve been sharing over the past year, I’ve been working on this project - focusing on the lives of five women: Valarie, Katrina, Millicent, Alicia, and Patricia - all living Vitiligo.
So each day this week, you will hear a bit of their journeys and how their pain became their purpose to help others in their communities.
It’s a special week-long PowerPLAY RePLAY beginning with Valarie Molyneaux!
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This week on a PowerPLAY Re-PLAY - They work in ministering the next generation of youth – she is a best-selling author…he is soon to be a best-selling author – and they ain’t done yet! The Power Couple – Brandon and Crystal McLean - Coming up next on This PowerPLAY
RePLAY!
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This Week on a PowerPLAY RePLAY - she is the woman behind the efforts to bring films from filmmakers of color to an international audience. Lisa Simmons discusses her work with the Roxbury International Film Festival and the Color of Film Collaborative – and what she believes makes a great film.
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This week on a PowerPLAY Re-PLAY - we revisit my conversation with KidsPeace’s own Dominique Womack. Kids Peace is a non-profit organization devoted to helping children with emotional and behavioral challenges.
Dominique has dedicated years to helping them raise money for programs that help both foster children and foster parents have the emotional support and materials to continue to raise the youth through all circumstances.
And this year, she continues the tradition with the second annual Art Gallery of Hope fundraiser which displays art from kids that are looking for their forever homes and kids that want to help raise awareness for those in need.
My sit-down with Dominique Womack - next on this PowerPLAY RePLAY
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This week on The PowerPLAY Show - Part 2 of my special co-production with Defining You with Helena J. We discuss the changing business of journalism and how I got started on my current film project, More Than Our Skin. Part 2 of Defining You with Helena J coming up next on The PowerPLAY Show!
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This week on The PowerPLAY Show - It’s not often I have the opportunity to be on the receiving end of interviews, but that’s what’s happening on this two-part special co-production with Defining You with Helena J. We discuss how I got into this business; when I learned my purpose; and of course my film project, More Than Our Skin.
So here is Part 1 of Defining You with Helena J. Next on The PowerPLAY Show!
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Fade up – cue music – dissolve still store – cut live – fade to black. Words my guest this week has uttered for decades – and he had a little cameo in front of the camera as well. For 40 years, Stephen Lucas directed the major news stories that changed our world, and this week, he talks about his path, what he misses and doesn’t miss – and what’s next for the newly retired young man – that’s next on The PowerPLAY RePLAY!
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It’s been more than a week – and most of us are still in a state of shock. The conversations range from what’s wrong with him to how is he’s doing. And millions on social media are sharing thoughts, memes and anger over the slap seen around the globe. But at the core is the institutional rage black men have and continue to take out on one another. This time – for the entire world to see. So where do we go from here? The conversation this week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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March is National Women's Month and all month long we’ve shared our Empowering Women Series where brought you one of the amazing women from my upcoming documentary film, More Than Our Skin. Our last episode features Patricia Rossy, Vice-President of VITFriends. Patricia shares part of her journey and how she uses her voice and beauty to bring attention to this widely, misunderstood disease. This week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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March is National Women's Month and all month long we’re in our Empowering Women Series where I'm highlighting one of the amazing women from my upcoming documentary film, More Than Our Skin. This week my guest is Millicent Meadows, leader of the Connecticut Chapter of VITFriends. Millicent shares her journey of being diagnosed as a teenager and how she works to help other teens live with their beautiful skin. That’s Coming up next on The PowerPLAY Show!
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March is National Women's Month and all month long we’re in our Empowering Women Series where I'm highlighting one of the amazing women from my upcoming documentary film, More Than Our Skin. This week my guest is Katrina Christian, leader of the North Carolina Chapter of VITFriends. Katrina shares her journey and how she’s helping others in her community living with vitiligo. This week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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March is National Women's Month and I'm kicking off my Empowering Women Series where all month I'm highlighting one of the amazing women from my upcoming documentary film, More Than Our Skin. This week, my guest is Alicia Roufs, leader of the Minnesota Chapter of VITFriends. Alicia – the only one of the five women in this film who has had Vitiligo her entire life. Her story and her triumph. This week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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March is National Women's Month and I'm kicking off my Empowering Women Series where all month I'm highlighting one of the amazing women from my upcoming documentary film, More Than Our Skin. This week, Valarie Molyneaux, founder and CEO of VITFriends sits down with me to discuss her work - her hopes - and what it means for her to be a part of this important film project.
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Commissioner Christine Elow makes history – but it’s her story about how she made it to Top Cop that’s truly inspirational. On the final installment of our Celebrating Black Excellence series, I sit down with the newly appointed Police Commissioner for the City of Cambridge - the first woman to hold the position in the department's history! This Week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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He boarded a bus on a summer evening and his life changed. A false accusation of sexual assault, an allege unlawful arrest, fired from his job, and that’s not even the half of it. Attorney Timothy Fraser, along with his attorney Joseph Feaster on the fight for their day in court! – This Week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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He stood up to fight for the inclusion of Black Art – now more than 50 years later, a step forward in a powerful new exhibit at the museum of fine arts. Artist, Activist, and educator Dana Chandler - along with his daughter Dahna Chandler - discuss his career, experiencing the museum as a child, and what and how much has changed since he began his fight! The Celebrated Activist Artist this week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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They are a dynamic duo embarking on one of the biggest projects of their lives. Denise Gordon and her daughter Jestina Weems are co-creators of the upcoming, multimedia project, We Are The Dream, The Musical – and what they’re out to accomplish is simply extraordinary!
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This Week on The PowerPLAY Show - she is the woman behind the efforts to bring films from filmmakers of color to an international audience. Lisa Simmons discusses her work with the Roxbury International Film Festival and the Color of Film Collaborative – and what she believes makes a great film.
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His current work ranges from love to cemeteries to what it means to grow old. Filmmaker, multi-media artist and producer Roberto Mighty joins me to discuss his work, the love of his craft and what’s next for the man who continues to create the stories for diverse audiences.
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This Week on The PowerPLAY Show, I’m letting you in on a journey I’ve been on for the past three months that has changed my life. For years, I struggled with my health – being insulin dependent, high cholesterol – you name it. But one guest on my show last year changed my life. My journey – my coach, O’Neil Anderson is back – and you don’t want to miss this!
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Our Season 3 Premiere kicks off with my friend, renown artist Rob Stull. We'll discuss his work, how Hip Hop continues to be one of the greatest influences in his artistry, and Rob pays tribute to his dad, landmark architect Donald Stull.
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On the season finale of The PowerPLAY Show - reopenings, closings, hybrid models - all things many business had to endure during this ongoing pandemic - but churches?
And as we near the end of year 2 of COVID and its variants, how do faith leaders pivot from the traditional church to what we now know as virtual ministry?
My guest co-host Bishop Lawrence Ward of the Abundant Life church joins me with a panel from the faith community to discuss Pivoting in Year 2 on the season finale of The PowerPLAY Show.
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Seven years ago my grandmother, my second mother Frances S. Stedman passed away. I remember where I was and how I felt. I remember my mother’s pain slowly seeping through the tears she held back while keeping us all strong.
My grandmother was an extraordinary woman and several years before her passing, I had the remarkable opportunity to interview her. We discussed her childhood, becoming a mother and grandmother, and what she hoped for the next generations in the family.
My one on one with my grandmother, Nanny, Frances Stedman on a special edition of - The PowerPLAY Show.
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It’s something – unfortunately – we all experience at some point in our lives whether you’re a man, woman, transgendered, straight, or LGBTQ+ – harassment in any form is a part of our lives. This week – we bring you hollaback! – a global, people-powered movement to end harassment in all its forms. Their motto – we all deserved to be who we are, wherever we are.
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On this PowerPLAY RePLAY - To say my guest today is multi-talented, is quite the understatement. Joseph Reitman has appeared in major motion pictures including The Perfect Storm, Money Monster, and Lady in the Water, to name a few. He is also known for his roles on television series: Happy, 37 Problems, and Ray Donovan. But I remember Joe break dancing with some of our other classmates on the streets near Brookline High School.
What I didn’t know was the one major battle we both have fought and can talk about today.
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On this special Thanksgiving edition of the PowerPLAY Show - Edwin Sumpter has spent his career with the who’s who in Boston entertainment – even spending time in a limo with Stevie Wonder! This week, the entertainment journalist is on to discuss his latest project for the Music Museum of New England – A profile of Boston’s own Elma Lewis. Her life, her love, her contribution to the culture of Boston and why everyone should know her name.
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Fade up – cue music – dissolve still store – cut live – fade to black. Words my guest this week has uttered for decades – and he had a little cameo in front of the camera as well. For 40 years, Stephen Lucas directed the major news stories that changed our world, and this week, he talks about his path, what he misses and doesn’t miss – and what’s next for the newly retired young man!
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Medina Dixon, the top-ranked girls’ basketball prospect in the nation when she led Cambridge Rindge & Latin to a state title in 1981 - died Monday morning from pancreatic cancer.
The 6-foot-3 Medina went on to win an NCAA title at Old Dominion in 1985, was the leading scorer on the 1992 Women’s Dream Team that won bronze at the Barcelona Summer Olympics, and played 10 years of pro basketball in Italy, Japan, and Russia.
In 1997, Medina Dixon was elected to the Cambridge Rindge & Latin Hall of Fame and in 2011, became the seventh women’s basketball player to have her number retired at Old Dominion.
Then this past Spring, Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School Retired Medina’s number, #44 in a ceremony with her past coaches, teammates and guests. Medina was unable to attend the ceremony live but thanked everyone virtually.
This week on a special edition of the PowerPLAY Show - we will hear again from some of her closest friends and teammates about the powerhouse everyone called The Ice Woman.
To Medina’s wife, family and friends, my greatest sympathies go out to you during this time. I’m so proud I was able to meet her, if only for a fraction of her life. I know she’s be truly missed.
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My guests this week know what it means to be a power couple – and they’re using their power to influence a stronger, God-fearing generation of young people.
They work in ministering the next generation of youth – she is a best-selling author…he is, too! And there's no stopping them! The Power Couple – Brandon and Crystal McLean!
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Clennon King has spent much of his life as a journalist, documentarian, and social justice champion. His work transcends print, radio, and television.
As an award-winning content creator, he has delivered stories most have never heard of: the passage at St. Augustine and the story of a 1960 lynching. In addition, he’s tackled some of our most important issues: like covid’s impact, voter suppression, and the Black Lives Matter movement.
At heart, he is a true champion of truth and justice in all its forms and I’m proud to have spent just a tiny bit of my career with him.
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Mrs. Marion King was a young, pregnant mother who – while delivering clothes to jailed demonstrators in Camila Georgia on July 23 ,1962, was violented attacked by white police officers while her three young children watched in horror.
The attack on Mrs. King resulted in her losing her child. Her three children, Dr. Jonathan T. King, Dr. Edward Dubois King and Abena King have spent decades fighting to right the wrong done to their mother. Their hope is to put their mother’s attack in historical context and have the City of Camila recognize, own up and acknowledge what happened and make it right.
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Diana DiZoglio is a Massachusetts state senator representing the 1st Essex District in the Massachusetts Senate since 2019. The district includes her home city of Methuen as well as Newburyport, Haverhill, Merrimac, Amesbury, Salisbury, and four of eight precincts in North Andover.
Earlier this year, Senator DiZoglio announced her candidacy for Massachusetts state auditor.
As the daughter of a single mother, who had her at 17, Diana has always had to fight for the things that have mattered to her.
After serving in the legislature as an aide, and years of work for local nonprofits and community organizations, she won her first race for public office in 2012. In 2018 she was elected to the State Senate.
Currently, Diana serves as the Chair of the Joint Committee on Export Development and Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government, where she uses her experience as a champion for the people of Massachusetts to advocate for transparency and accountability in our government.
She is running for higher office to make sure that no one — no matter their background — receives different treatment on Beacon Hill.
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O'Neil Anderson is a collegiate athlete with over 10 years of health and wellness experience. He holds a master’s degree in applied nutrition from the University of New England. He holds multiple nutrition and fitness certifications and has worked with over 100 clients to improve their overall health.
He is a certified transformational nutrition coach through the Institute of Transformational Nutrition, which focuses on functional medicine and nutrition healing protocols.
He has spent the past few years working directly with functional medicine doctors in their New York clinics, leading their functional nutrition programs. There, he has been able to guide patients and clients to reverse and improve digestive diseases including colitis, acid reflux, IBS, chronic constipation and the likes through his nutrition and lifestyle program.
With a depth of experience, knowledge, and continued learning he is equipped to support his clients' health from multiple angles.
O'Neil is deeply passionate about health and wellness, and it shows in his work and his personal life.
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September is Suicide Awareness Month and it’s important to me to take some time to bring awareness and a voice for those healing from the loss of a loved one. For my two guests, it’s the unimaginable loss of a child. But through their work and faith, they are learning to heal and perhaps help others find some sense of purpose for those gone far too soon.
Attorney Joseph Feaster, Jr. did what any parent would do with a sick child...he took care of him. But when his son, Joseph, III, succumbed to his illness, he made it his ministry to be an advocate for mental health.
My husband drew closer to God and his faith. Through what was broken, he took his love for children and built an amazing space for children to learn and grow in their walk with God.
And that’s exactly what these two men have in common…a faith and purpose to help heal and others heal.
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Keith Mascoll is an Actor/Producer and Sneaker-head and is the Executive Director of the Triggered Project. Keith strives to use his art for social change in the black and brown community. He is committed to using his unique and innovative style to provoke love, laughter, and empathy in each story told.
His wife Roxann Mascoll is a staff psychotherapist at Brandeis University Counseling Center. She is also a lead clinical social worker at Boston Medical Center. Roxann holds a Masters in Social Work and Certificate of Urban Leadership in Clinical Social Work from Simmons College and Masters’ degree from the University of Massachusetts in nonprofit management. Roxann is the immediate past President of the Greater Boston Chapter of the Association of Black Social Workers.
Together - they work to nurture the healing of men of color who have been sexually abused while bringing a social awareness to light about not only the experiences of male trauma survivors – but women too - who are often victim to implicit bias descriptions.
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George “Chip” Greenidge is one of the greatest minds of this generation.
Chip is a Ph.D candidate in sociology at Georgia State University. He holds a master’s Degree in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard University Graduate School of Education and a Bachelor’s in Political Science and International Studies from Morehouse College.
His is the founder and director of the “Greatest Minds” - a non-profit organization that works with college students and young professionals to become the next generation of civic leaders through mentoring, volunteering and participating.
Chip has served in many capacities throughout his career in the fields of non-profit, government, philanthropy, and education. Most recently, he was President of the Boston Empowerment Zone, a federally funded HUD initiative aimed at economic investment in U.S. urban neighborhoods and the Founder and Executive Director of the National Black College Alliance, Inc., a nonprofit focused on providing alumni mentors to college and high school students. His work as a convener has also been recognized locally and nationally by several organizations including the Aspen Institute, National Urban League, and the Independent Sector.
But it’s his latest addition to his resume that he’s here to talk about today! Chip is now a visiting fellow at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School in his home town of Cambridge, Massachusetts.
He’s just a Kid from Cambridge, but his impact is being felt worldwide.
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Ruben Garcia is the very definition of a serial entrepreneur.
Ruben studied business and real estate while balancing family and work. But after college, and almost 12 years at UPS, he decided to make an impactful change in his life and jumped right into his dream career: real estate. Since making this major step, Ruben has had major accomplishments in his field since the beginning of his real estate career in 2014.
And there’s so much more to this visionary.
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In his book, Adult Conversations, my guest introduces a concept that he lives by which helps in communicating in any situation. He writes, "by learning more about the different egos and focusing on listening, he vastly improved his communication with others."
His book is based on something he read decades ago, “What do you say after you say hello?” by Eric Berne and it changed his life.
Well my guest today will break down this very simply technique to vastly improve any communication you have in any relationship. I’m so happy to introduce to you my guest this week, Robert Collins, Sr., - oh yeah, and he’s also my dad!
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This week on the PowerPLAY Show - we have a special encore presentation of my friend and renowned artist Rob Stull - who's work currently donne's the facade of the Museum of Fine Arts right here in Boston, Massachusetts. Rob’s work is part of a group in the exhibition “Writing the Future: Basquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation” which illuminates how this group’s work rocketed their creative voices onto the main stages of international art and music. The exhibit has been extended through July 25th and is a powerful portrait of hip hop life, music, art and culture. AND on June 19th - or Juneteenth as we know it - all visitors get in free to see this amazing moment in our culture.
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Amanda Smerage is the new Director Of Broadcast Production at Worcester Red Sox. She is a dynamic, multi-Emmy Award Winning Television Production Specialist with 20 years in the field. Adept at both Live- and Post-Production Broadcasts, Amanda primarily has worked as a Lead EVS Operator and Replay Specialist and is also a skilled Editor, Technical Director and Replay Producer.
Leveraging an impressive body of work and expansive knowledge base, Amanda has changed the game in TV production – standing out firmly on her technical expertise and command for authority in one of the most anxiety driven industries.
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Thomas Silcott, originally from Boston Mass., is a graduate of Salem State University in theatre and got his Masters in acting from New York University Tisch School Of The Arts. From there he went on to two Broadway tours of Bring In Da Noise Bring In The Funk. Tom has also done many regional shows from Merrimack Rep in Boston to The Mark Taper in Los Angeles and Berkeley Rep in San Francisco to The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta. He’s also made an Off Broadway appearance at the Signature Theatre. Tom has also guest starred on a number of television shows and commercials over the years. His recent commercial running is for AARP.
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My guest this week has made it her work to help the most vulnerable of our population, foster children.
Born and raised in Fayetteville, NC is not for the faint of heart but, for Dominique Womack it is the mere heartbeat of her existence. As a teen - she fell in love with helping the surrounding communities by volunteering. When high school came to an end, she joined Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity at East Carolina. Being a member of Kappa Kappa Psi allowed her to combine the two things she loved most music and service.
Fast forward many years and many projects later and her love for Fayetteville is still as strong as it was before. Since being back home, she has raised thousands of dollars each year for various causes mainly those dealing with our future. Cumberland County has always been ranked one of the top communities when it comes to children awaiting foster care and since this community raised her, Dominique is determined to do the same for the generations to come. That is why the organization KidsPeace is near and dear to heart.
KidsPeace is a non-profit organization devoted to helping children with emotional and behavioral challenges.
She has dedicated years to helping them raise money for programs that help both foster children and foster parents have the emotional support and materials to continue to raise the youth through all circumstances.
And this year, she has a very special idea to continue in the same vein of giving: The Art Gallery of Hope fundraiser will display art from kids that are looking for their forever homes and kids that want to help raise awareness for those in need.
It took a village to raise Dominique and that village is Fayetteville. Now it is her time to make sure that all our children have the same support.
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After not seeing each other for 34 years, Robert Ginyard and Tonia Magras pick up right where they left off discussing their lives, their struggles, and what they're up to now!
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Another day, another tragic reminder of the dangers Black and brown citizens face for being born into a world of hate that has branded them as suspects from day one.
On this week’s episode of the PowerPLAY Show – we will hear from those young voices – all of whom have witnessed – in large part to social media – the unending narrative of black and brown lives being lost way too soon.
Our Voices and police killings this week on The PowerPLAY Show!
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We know the man, we know the story, we know the accused and now we know the verdict.
As the nation learns the fate of Former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin - we have a special presentation of The PowerPLAY Show!
The jury deliberated for less than 11 hours and returned a verdict of guilty on all charged in the death of George Floyd.
Chauvin faces up to 40 years in prison for second-degree murder, up to 25 years for third-degree murder and up to 10 years for second-degree manslaughter.
Joining me for tonight's discussion is Attorney Joseph Feaster, Bishop Lawrence Ward and Pastor Kenneth Young!
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My guest today is making people’s dreams, like mine, stay alive. Darrell Byers is the CEO of Interise – a company whose mission is to create an inclusive economy by supporting established small businesses that are located in low-income communities or are minority owned.
From this – Interise STRONG was established specifically to support the millions of entrepreneurs facing the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by delivering online programs designed to meet small businesses challenges right now.
We’re going to get into all of this but first, let me tell you more about my guest. Darrell and I first met roaming the halls of WGBH. A Massachusetts native, Darrell has spent most of his career in non-profit, from Earth Justice to Easter seals to Habitat for Humanity before joining Interise. He said he joined Interise to help transform lives – a mission he has been doing his entire life.
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Michael J. Bobbitt has talked the talk because he’s walked the walk. He is a director, choreographer and playwright. Now Michael has cemented his dedication and contribution to the arts by being named the highest ranking cultural official when he took on the role as Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council.
What does the Council do and how will his new role continue the development of arts and culture projects in the state? I sit down with Michael to discuss arts, culture and what we can hope for in the months to come!
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Dr. Dorrance Kennedy is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. He is a graduate of Hampton University; received his Master of Social Work from Southern University, a Master of Theological Studies degree from Covenant Seminary, and a Doctorate of Education from Fayetteville State University. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who was employed for several years as a public school social worker in Louisiana, Illinois, and Missouri.
Currently, Dr. Kennedy is an Assistant professor of social work at Fayetteville State University. He is also an ordained minister.
He is the founder and CEO of Empower Your Purpose, a personal development corporation dedicated to bringing communities together. Over the last twenty years, he has spoken to a wide variety of audiences including schools, colleges, community organizations, churches and now, The PowerPLAY Show.
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My guest today is an award-winning writer and producer who’s worked for PBS, NBC, CBS and the Smithsonian Institute. She has won 9 Emmy Awards, 2 gold World Medals from the International Film and Television Festival of New York, A CEBA Award from the National Association of Black Journalists, and a Massachusetts Psychological Award for her contributions in broadcast media.
With such award winning productions: Journey of courage, Ellington’s Sentimental Mood, Surviving the Odds: Being Young, Black and Male in America and The making of Africans in America, her work has always explored a deeper understanding of the black experience in America.
Storytelling IS her first love. In 2014, she graduated from Grub Street’s Novel Incubator, a year-long advanced degree program and now is working on several novels which range from exploring the history of her ancestors in Barbados, to an intimate look at her mother’s life.
She wrote, “Stories hold the power to transform our lives and will remain an integral part of humanity for as long as we gather around campfires, open books, and stare at movie screens.”
It’s hard to put into words exactly what this woman has done to inspire me. As a young girl, I marveled in her presence as she stood firmly producing, directing and being the head woman in charge. She took my sister and I on an adventure that has defined us to this day. She was strong when I was weak. She loved me through my pain. She looks up to me with such pride and affection not realizing – and I tell her this all the time – YOU MADE ME.
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I first met Lynn Scornavacca when I was a production assistant. I didn’t know much about anything back then. But I marveled at her skills and the way she stood up to the boys in television. As I sit back and think about the women who impacted me in my professional career, there’s no way I could leave Lynn out.
Lynn began her professional career at Snow Sound in Hartford, Connecticut where she began honing her skills as an audio engineer. She moved to Boston in the early 80s where she began working in sports broadcasting. In 1981 – there were no other women mixing audio. She was the first A1 working in sports in the Northeast.
Fast forward to where we met at WGBH-TV. There, she shifted her focus to field audio, working with two wonderful people who also impacted my life: Kathy Gleason and Howard Powell.
From Say Brother to Antiques Roadshow, to Evening At The Pops, and so much more, Lynn stood out as a true professional and skilled production engineer.
Finally, in 2004 – Lynn took another bold step and launched her own company, Silver Lake Productions, Inc. where she and her staff specialize in stories for nonprofits.
Lynn is a woman I not only looked up to, but still call for advice to this day.
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If you haven’t heard the name Medina Dixon, well her story is the true definition of legendary. From the city of Cambridge to competing all around the world - Medina shattered records and earned dozens of honors including national championships and playing for the 1992 women’s basketball olympic team. But it’s her current fight which may be her biggest challenge. I sat down for a discussion with Medina Dixon with some of her closest friends and former teammates: Sharlene Blake, Katani Sumner, Rhonda Green and Ray Thomas of the Ray Thomas Variety Show Live.
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Rachel Foster has achieved what most women haven’t – a 303 pound squat, a 165 pound bench press, and a 374 pound deadlift – all just three weeks ago! AND almost reached a world record.
When she’s not performing her duties as Mayor of MetFit Training Facility in Natick Massachusetts – where she also trains to compete in powerlifting, Rachel is the Content Production Manager at PTC – where she leads a team through fast-paced pre & post-production editing to deliver high-quality content to their customers.
She’s a proud auntie of three and she does all of this while still going to bed by 8:30pm every night.
Oh, and one last thing, although she doesn’t use this as a way to define herself, Rachel is a cancer survivor.
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My guest has made her mark in helping to understand the world’s most deadly infectious diseases. Adrianne Gladden-Young is a senior research associate in Pardis Sabeti’s lab at the Broad Institute and Harvard University where she conducts genomic studies of the viruses responsible for some of the world’s most severe and deadly infectious disease outbreaks.
She is currently leading benchwork efforts to use COVID genomic epidemiology as a tool to understand the spread of COVID-19 during the pandemic. And, she uses her knowledge and expertise to ensure lab safety through her role as a representative of the Broad’s Environmental Health and Safety group.
For the past 15 years, Adrianne has conducted lab research to study viruses – including HIV, Lassa, Ebola, Zika, rabies, and Hepatitis A – in response to global public health crises. Adrianne has spent time working with a biotech company to evaluate a pathogen detection system prototype designed to identify biological threats found in the air, and in different sample types.
And as a former member of the Massachusetts General Hospital Hazardous Materials Response Team, Adrianne is formally trained in hospital-based response to hazardous biological and chemical mass casualty events.
And if that’s not enough, Adrianne has trained and mentored many students and scientists.
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Tania Blanco had dreams. Big dreams. As a single mother – it would have been easy to put those dreams to the side. But she persevered, with the love and support of so many others in her life. And last year, March 5, 2020, she made ONE of those dreams come true when she opened her own Insurance Agency.
And in a field where men are more prominent, Tania never gave it a second thought, saying, I never cared about that and she tells us why.
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Lisa Olivieri worked in the television industry in a number of roles - including Associate Producer - for over 15 years. She has also worked with a number of independent filmmakers on various documentaries. Her work has aired on Discovery Channel, History Channel, Lifetime Network and PBS. She was named one of the “Men and Women Who Make A Difference,” by Boston Spirit Magazine, for her work on BLINDSIDED.
Blindsided is an hour-long documentary narrative of Patricia Livingstone, a deaf-blind lesbian artist facing a series of unimaginable losses and historic gains. The film weaves intimate, real time scenes, shot over the course of eight years, with home videos and photographs, to relay the story of a woman whose spark did not fade even in the face of great hardship and loss.
Lisa is now working on her latest project, Recovery City, an intimate, unflinching portrait of four bold women who refuse to let themselves or their community give in to the stigma and despair of addiction.
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Sparkle W. Bass graduated North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where she received a BS in Electronic, Computer and Information Technology. She then received her MBA from Kaplan University.
Sparkle launched her career in North Carolina, where she worked with industry leading technology companies in the field of project management. This eventually led to her desire to own and manage her own company.
In 2014, Sparkle & her husband Travis, launched XII Enterprise, a transportation company. While assisting her drivers and owner operators in setting up their trucking business, XII Companies was born. XII Companies is a consulting firm that specialize in business start-ups, business finances, business taxes and insurance. XII Companies works with established businesses to create business plans, policies and procedures, obtain certified minority and women owned status certifications, business trademarks and more.
In 2020, Sparkle co-founded Wreck & Release which is Fayetteville’s first Rage Room. Sparkle also co-founded C&P Eatery, a food truck that specializes in America’s favorite foods.
Then in June last year, in the midst of a pandemic, Sparkle started her real estate career and now is a full real estate broker. Sparkle aspires to assist individuals purchasing their homes while educating them throughout the home buying process.
As a philanthropist, Sparkle’s desire is to see progression of others, especially the youth. With the help of her husband, Travis Bass, Sparkle co-founded a non-profit organization called the Cynthia Patterson Foundation (CPF), in honor of her mother who taught in North Carolina for over 20 years and was a paralyzed in a drive by shooting in 2005. The foundation’s focus is to assist the youth in the communities of North Carolina through providing resources, education, and career opportunities.
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Shaumba-Yandje Dibinga runs Shape Up with Shaumba dot com. ShapeUp with Shaumba works with school and programs throughout the year to get young people moving through dance and calisthenics. She also teaches children the importance of eating healthier and using their voice to relay how they are feeling. ShapeUp also runs smaller group programs which involve one on one and family involvement. Her background in training, teaching and performance experience includes all areas of dance: African, tap, hip-hop, swing, gospel, ballet, step, modern and jazz.
She says, "In working with young people, I have had the opportunity to hear their stories about being called names by their parents, siblings, and friends with respect to their weight. I have also had the chance to help them figure out how to make them feel great about themselves and voice how they are feeling to those who are making them feel small".
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Zenda Walker - licensed cosmetologist, beauty marketing executive, and now author. Originally from New York, Zenda has been honing her skills in hair care with a focus on maintaining healthy practices when it comes to healthy hair care. Her website, knowyourhairitage.com will soon offer consulting, books on products to help with your hair care, as well as valuable resources.
But Zenda is much more than the hair coach we all need. Her new, self-published book, Zara’s Wash Day, is a huge success! The book’s main character Zara, Zenda’s daughter, describes a day in which Zara must get her hair washed. Throughout the story, Zenda wonderfully describes the significance of our African American heritage. In it, Zenda writes, “Each strand tells our family’s story.” She also writes, our hair spirals, zigzags, and bends. It’s kinky, curvy and can sometimes coil. These are all characteristics of an ancestral link to people from African soil.”
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Actor, Producer, Director, Writer and may I add, high school classmate.
To say my guest today is multi-talented, is quite the understatement. Joseph Reitman has appeared in major motion pictures including The Perfect Storm, Money Monster, and Lady in the Water, to name a few. He is also known for his roles on television series: Happy, 37 Problems, and Ray Donovan. But I remember Joe break dancing with some of our other classmates on the streets near Brookline High School.
What I didn’t know was the one major battle we both have fought and can talk about today.
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Michael Curry has recently taken on leading the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers – where he plans – among many other things – to manage the fears and inequities of communities of color when it comes to the access and dissemination of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Formerly, Mr. Curry worked as the Senior Policy Analyst at Blue Cross Blue Shield, where counseled on legislative and regulatory matters in the state.
He also served as president of the Boston Branch of the NAACP from 2011-2016 where Mr. Curry worked on revitalizing the chapter and recruiting new members.
Michael Curry has made it his career to advancing the lives of African American people – not just in Massachusetts, but throughout the country
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From Breonna Taylor – a pandemic - to a new administration – this past year has been – well, challenging, to say the least.
We’ve seen protests, on both sides of the racial and political aisle – that has further divided us.
We’ve seen leaders use God for their idea of social justice, but not for the greater good of mankind or this country.
And with most churches closed – a pause in faith and purpose when it comes to the body of Christ.
Pastor Kenneth Young - pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Haverhill, Massachusetts - says part of his mission is to carry his ministry to impoverished regions helping in the areas of education, employment and yes, understanding social justice.
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On January 20, 2021, history was made. President Joseph Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States along with his Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman, African American, and woman of South Asian descent to be elected to the office. It was a different inauguration from those in the past, but even so - it was a signal of a new day; a new era; and a new administration vowed to unite a divisive nation.
Dr. Yvonne Spicer, Mayor of Framingham, Communications Director Darren Duarte, and Attorney and Chair of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts Joseph Feaster share their thoughts on this day in history.
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One of the most important factors that suffered significantly during the COVID pandemic, not including lives, of course, was the United States economy. From business closings, governmental shutdowns, and schools going remote – everything in our lives suffered economically.
The job losses of 2020 reached an all-time high and stressed the unemployment system to its capacity.
But it’s not ALL bad news! The pandemic has shifted real estate markets across the board and more and more people are buying, moving, or working on investment properties. There is still much to understand about this current economic climate and what YOU should be focusing on if you’re looking to buy, sell, or stay put.
Our returning guest on The PowerPLAY is founder, President and Executive Director of Financial Education Associates Jacqueline Cooper. Financial Education Associates provides high quality financial education seminars, and home buying and ownership courses. FEA offers home buyer education and financial education classes both online and in person for Massachusetts homebuyers and homeowners.
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We're kicking off Season 2 in the same way we premiered last year, with our guest and my friend, renowned artist Rob Stull!
Rob had a very busy 2020 – despite COVID! From the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – to the Mural Project, to donning the façade of the Museum of Fine Arts – the first every local artist to do so.
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On the Season Finale of The PowerPLAY, Bishop Lawrence Ward of the Abundant Life Church in Cambridge joins as guest co-host to faith, work and the challenges of ministering during this pandemic. 2020 was a challenging year for many, including those in the faith community. Learning new technologies just to be able to continue connecting and sharing the word of God changed the way most pastors work and minister.
Added to the challenges of the pandemic is the idea of “church” - the building – and how do believers continue to meet and worship together in this digital space.
The challenges are awesome. The solutions aren’t as easy to find. Our guest panel for Pastoring in a Pandemic are Bishop Brian Greene of Pentecostal Tabernacle, Reverend Lorraine Thornhill of the Kingdom Empowerment Center, and Larry Kim, Senior Pastor of the Central Square Church.
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For over two decades, and more than half of his life, Ramiro - the Freakin' Puerto Rican - has been on the air and in your ear! His home now is on Hot 96.9 with co-hosts Pebbles and Melissa - who start your morning off with laughs, music and fun!
Making the move to 96.9 was a reunion of sorts. Ramiro and Pebbles anchored the morning show at Jam'n 94.5 for over a decade. But the duo were split up. Ramiro went silent for 6 months before finding his new home with The GetUP Crew!
But there's so much more to the guy from the second date updates! My guest this week is the talent that goes by one name, Ramiro!
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Walter Beasley is an award winning saxophonist, singer and instructor whose musicianship has been described as an anomaly, says friend and fellow saxophonist Branford Marsalis. Marsalis describes Walter as a successful performing musician who possesses the rare skill of understanding the musical process beyond the intuitive. Walter has released several albums and since 1998, has been one of the top five best-selling African-American saxophonist in the world.
Walter came to Boston to attend the Berklee College of Music, and – stayed. The student became the teacher with what was supposed to be a temporary teaching gig – that turned into over three decades of passing along his talents to thousands.
At the time, he was the highest selling full-time professor and recording artist in history – having balanced an exemplary career as a recording artist and performer with the influential presence in music education. But life changed and Walter took upon the extraordinary opportunity to take care of his father in his last years. He shared much of their time together through posts and social media, much to the sadness of his fans when he had to announce to the world his father had passed. He shared spending this time with his dad was a true gift.
So, Beasley’s address may have changed, but his music - and his inspiration are more impressive than ever.
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The PowerPLAY interviews Jeffrey Summers, founder and manager of Jeffrey's House! Jeffrey’s House works to provide viable solutions in the battles of addiction. With 5 current locations, Jeffrey’s House works to provide a space for sober living and helps residents drastically increase the chances of maintaining a fulfilling sober life by providing safety nets and skills in order to succeed.
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Airline stocks soared with the news of a coronavirus vaccine, meaning - some may return to the friendly skies. However many are still skeptical when it comes to airline travel in the COVID era.
Most carriers are still racking up daily operating losses as air traffic remains at a third of pre-pandemic levels, averaging 785,000 passengers a day in the U.S., down from 2.3 million a year ago.
It’s clear travelers are reluctant to fly. So, what is being done to help customers feel safe?
Maurice Jenkins, Division Director of Aviation Services at Miami International Airport says, “It’s more important than ever to enable a touchless journey and explore the technologies required to enable a fully contactless experience throughout these large global transport hubs.”
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If you lived in Boston from the early 90’s on – you probably heard of the story of Boston Police Detective John Mulligan. Mulligan, 52 years old, was shot five times in the face on Sept. 26, 1993, while working a detail at a local Walgreens. Mulligan was reportedly inside his SUV, asleep, when the shooting occurred.
You also probably heard of the name Sean Ellis.
Two journalists familiar with this story and appeared in the 8-part docuseries Trial 4 – now streaming on Netflix - Boston Globe columnist Adrian Walker and Senior Investigative Reporter for WGBH-NEWS Phillip Martin - discuss the problems with the investigation, the Boston police department and will there ever be justice for Mulligan or Ellis.
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The Election is over, and our President and Vice president elect are in place. History has been made and the promise of a new day has been shared with the nation. EXCEPT – our sitting President has yet to concede; charges of voting irregularities and fraud have been spewed by several politicians with no substantial evidence; and millions are still waiting for stimulus money to be distributed. Also hanging in the balance is the hope of a vaccine that will end this
deadly pandemic.
What we do know? President Donald Trump's efforts to deny the outcome of the 2020 election cannot change an undeniable reality: Joe Biden won decisively, and his lead nationally and in key states has grown over time as more votes have been counted.
So, where do we go from here?
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With less than a week to what is sure to be one of the most divisive presidential elections in recent history – all eyes, ears and fingers are on the pulse of what will happen. Either way – what has happened over the last several months is a sad reflection of our political process.
Gone are the days of decency and a respectful difference of ideas and opinions. We’ve turned the election season into a barrage of name calling, personal attacks, and temper tantrums. So how do we begin to heal the racial and political divide this administration has let widen over the past 4 years? How do we begin to unite and truly make America great again for all citizens, black and white and everyone in between?
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Protests by African Americans for equality and justice did not begin in 2019 or 2020. Thousands of seeds were planted many years ago and through the present day. African Americans have been protesting and rebelling since slavery. Each one was a significant link to the protests of today. In the spring of 1970, eight members of the Syracuse University football team, African Americans, decided to take a stand for justice and equality. They were members of the 1969–70 Syracuse University football team known as the Syracuse 8.
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She made history and then she made the news. In 2017 – Dr. Victoria Greer became the first person of color to serve as Superintendent of Sharon Public Schools. Just some three years later – Sharon Public School Committee essentially booted Dr. Greer out – and despite many media inquiries – the Committee has remained silent with no public explanation of Greer’s dismissal.
Dr. Greer has now filed a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination alleging demeaning and abusive behavior AND racial discrimination despite receiving proficient or higher performance reviews, being appointed to Chair of the Commonwealth’s Gifted and Talented Education Advisory Council and recognized at the 2019 Black Excellence on the Hill Program.
Hear Dr. Greer’s story, in her own words.
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Breonna Taylor. Her name has permeated social media feeds and news headlines for months – and sadly for the grimmest of reasons. But the 12 million dollar question – exactly the amount the City of Louisville settled for with the family of Breonna Taylor – is did the grand jury get it right?
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It’s a bit like the million man march meets James Brown – The Funkin' Rock Rebellion – created by Aron Lee - is conspired of a collection of artists aligned against racism, injustice and inequity are taking it to the streets. What’s it? The power of socially-conscious beliefs set to hard funk. It makes you stop, listen and feel. The power of music at its best.
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Attorney Joseph Feaster, Jr. did what any parent would do with a sick child...he took care of him. But when his son, Joseph, III, succumbed to his illness, he made it his ministry to be an advocate for mental health.
The powerful story of one father's journey and his life's work to bring awareness to the complexities and stigmas of mental illness.
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We first heard Ashleigh's story this past winter - from her childhood to the beginning of her entering what she described as darkness - to her power, love and God. This month as we listen to stories of those affected by suicide, we thought Ashleigh's story could help others who think, this is too much, to know that God can handle all.
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You push and push, thriving through school and college to make it big in corporate America. Sleepless nights, working essentially every day – all in the name of fortune and success. You have it all! Until you realize your sleepless nights are now a normal occurrence. You haven’t eaten in days and getting out of bed is the last thing on your mind.
A knock at the door and you realize you almost succumbed to your death – if not for a knock at the door. This is just part of the story of Nieisha Deed. Nieisha spent over a decade working her way up through corporate America when one day, the pressure she had put on herself was so immense, she swallowed a bottle of pills. Nieisha discusses her failed suicide attempt and how she turned her diagnosis of depression and bipolar disorder into helping others through the organization she founded, PureSpark.
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September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and all month long – the PowerPLAY is bringing you stories on awareness, prevention and information. We’ll talk to families reeling from the loss of a loved one; how we can bring more awareness to the signs and resources available; and what you can do to help you or someone you know get the help they need.
Our first episode is near and dear to my heart. My husband has not just had to live through the pain and anger of a loved one committing suicide once, but twice. First, his father, when Greg was just a teenager. He literally held his father's body while another family member cut the rope his dad used to hang himself. After attempts of trying to revive him, he had to deal with the shock of his father being dead.
Then just three years ago, after what was described as an argument in the house where his oldest was living, Jamie took a gun from the home and was found dead two days later.
But despite the weight of the pain these two tragic losses held, Greg found purpose in their deaths.
My husband, Gregory Magras, tells his story for the first time on the PowerPLAY.
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Some individuals are still celebrating the Democratic ticket for president and vice president because of the historic selection of Senator Kamala Harris for vice president. Why the celebration you ask? Is it because she is the first African American and Asian American woman nominated by a major political party in this country or is it because of the talent and purpose she adds to the ticket?
Exactly, what is it that we are celebrating? Is it her race that makes the nomination worthy of celebration?
Unfortunately, people in America see one’s color first and immediately place the individual into a racial category with all of its attending character traits associated with one’s stereotypical image the person has formulated over the years. Do we all do it?
And what is Black enough?
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Mood swings. Sadness. Fatigue. Over-eating. Not eating. Drinking too much. Self-medicating.
Feeling sad, lonely, or depressed at times is a normal reaction to loss, life's struggles, or even low self-esteem. But when these feelings become overwhelming, cause physical symptoms, and last for long periods of time, they can keep you from leading a normal, active life.
Add to this our current pandemic which has ripped us all from our normalcy including: work, activities, and social engagements - and these symptoms can become unbearable.
So when is it time to ask for help?
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History Made! Presumptive democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden chooses Senator Kamala Harris to run as his Vice President. Senator Harris will be the first woman of color to be on a major ticket for the presidential race. But will this be enough to change the residence of the White House and undo the racial, political and economic strife President Trump has created over the last four years.
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Never since World War 2 has the disruption of professional sports been felt – and in this day and age, the effect is much more profound. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused most sporting events to be cancelled or postponed. Even the 2020 Summer Olympics – which were to take place in Tokyo have been rescheduled to 2021, hopefully. And for the first time in its history – the Boston Marathon was cancelled. Most noticeably in this strange time, spectators have been replaced with an applause audio track – making it –
dare I say – just bizarre to watch.
Players opting out, restricted access to their families, COVID cases putting the breaks on upcoming games, and no fans to help cheer them on – one must ask – is this even worth it?
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Eurie Stamps was killed by a policeman’s bullet on January 5, 2011. He was 68 years old. A Framingham Police Officer Paul Duncan, who was a town of Framingham SWAT team member fired the fatal shot. Officer Duncan is white. Eurie Stamps is an African American male. Police and the Middlesex District Attorney at the time, Gerald Leone, determined that it was an accident, that the officer merely tripped over Mr. Stamps as he laid prone face down on the floor of his home.
Sound familiar? Yes it does, another Black unarmed male killed by a white police officer, an innocent Black male. However, there were no protests like there are today. Protests that came many deaths too late. Even after seeing or reading about black men being killed by white police officers for such small transgressions - like walking from a store with a package of skittles, running away from an officer and being shot in the back, playing with a toy gun in a park, sleeping in one’s own home or selling untaxed cigarettes. Then there was George Floyd. A video seen around the world showing a white police officer essentially strangling the man to death by kneeling on his neck while he was on the ground. A large segment of the country then said enough.
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The Talking Drum – by author Lisa Braxton - explores intra-racial, class, and cross-cultural tensions, along with the meaning of community and belonging. The novel explores the profound impact gentrification has on people in many neighborhoods, and the way in which being uprooted affects the fabric of their families, friendships, and emotional well-being. Lisa is an essayist, short story writer, and novelist and discusses the journey to the completion of her book and her greatest inspirations: her parents!
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When we talk about sexual abuse or rape, it's often stories from women – like myself - but we seldom - if ever - do we hear about the abuse of men, particularly men of color. The conceptualization of men as perpetrators and women as victims remains the dominant sexual victimization paradigm. But we are slowly seeing a shift. Although the numbers don’t reflect the actual number of victims – on record 3% of men and boys have been the victim of sexual abuse or rape. That’s 1 out of 33 men and boys. We just don’t talk about it.
Keith Mascoll, project founder of The Triggered Project – Shattering The Silence and Nurturing the Healing - discusses his story and the work his project is doing by helping to unpack the sexual trauma AND cast a shadow over the wholeness of black male selfhood. The project allows for a sharing of cultural values in black and brown communities – that often demand men suppress their vulnerabilities and deal with their trauma alone.
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The civil rights movement had legislative aims; it was a political movement. But it was also a religious movement, sustained by the religious power unlocked within southern black churches. But are we hearing that same movement now? And when it comes to the fight for the lives killed at the hands of police – are we bringing faith and community to the table? Here to help us understand the power of the faith community in these important and divisive times is Dr. Virginia Ward, Dean of the Boston Campus of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and the Executive Director of the Northeast Region. Dr. Ward is also an Associate Pastor at the Abundant Life Church in Cambridge Massachusetts – where her work as an urban pastor, ministry organizer, and youth ministry expert – has taken her around the globe.
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Our guest today has been on the front lines reporting on some of the toughest stories: human trafficking, the Boston Marathon bombings, Whitey Bulger and, of course, police shootings – to name a few. Senior Investigative Reporter Phillip Martin’s work has taken him around the globe and into the very soul of mankind.
But in this divisive society - inflamed again over the latest murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks – can an African American reporter stay fair and
impartial, or does the pain of the systemic torture and killing of black men make it more and more difficult to simply report the news?
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In the weeks following the gruesome murder of George Floyd, Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone declared systemic racism in his city a Public Health Crisis – and proposes – among many things - a civilian oversight committee.
But will it make a difference when we continue to see the acts of the murderous few snuffing out the lives of our black sons and daughters? And will Somerville be an example to other cities in recognizing that racism must be eradicated? Our honest and open discussion on Recognizing The Pain with Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone.
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While the Country is looking at police accountability, Cambridge Police Department Commissioner Dr. Branville Bard takes a bold step in issuing an order that would allow for the prosecution of a sworn officer who doesn't intervene in the case of police misconduct.
Listen to this extraordinary discussion on how Commissioner Bard plans to change policing in the City of Cambridge.
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Northeastern University's School of Law Professor Ramirez is an expert in criminal justice. She has been a long-time advocate for policy changes in the criminal justice system. A graduate from Northwestern and Harvard Law School, Professor Ramirez was a research assistant with the Brookings Institute as well as a Soros Scholar. As an assistant US Attorney, Professor Ramirez efforts dealt with the unit of organized crime, narcotics and trafficking. However, it is the economic and social disparity of people of color that Ms. Ramirez had dedicated her profession to...understanding the enormous loss of potential that occurs when people of color are denied access to opportunities.
Professor Ramirez's paper on Policing Police outlines the case for mandatory professional liability insurance. The idea originated by University of Texas's Professor Noel Otu, provides an effective means for both justice and parity. In this paper, Prof. Ramirez uses the Eric Garner and Philando Castile cases to examine how effective treatment of insurance might have saved lives and taken the officers responsible for their deaths off the streets. In most cases, the settlements given to the families of victims is paid by the municipalities and tax-payers. It makes prudent sense for the tax-payers to know how liable these officers are before these tragedies occur. The mandatory professional liability offers a transparent look at who's a liability and may also reward good, solid police work.
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She's been on the front line of some of the world's most important stories. Now Emmy nominated and award winning television and radio anchor, host and reporter Tina Martin is molding the minds of future journalists as an Associate Professor of Practice for the Department of Journalism at Boston University. Tina's love for storytelling began as a young girl watching icon's like WBZ's Liz Walker and WCVB's Jim Boyd. She continues her passion in learning and discovering new things and has great advice for future journalists.
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On this episode of The PowerPLAY, we discuss some comments made by Suffolk District Attorney Rachael Rollins during an appearance on "Boston Public Radio" with Jim Braude and Margery Eagan on April 30, 2020. A criminal defendant called in to the show and told Rollins he was having trouble knowing his scheduled trial in the District Court. Rollins told him to call his lawyer for the date. In reply, the caller stated that his court-appointed counsel has not called him back. From there the irate District Attorney when on to criticize the entire class of lawyers in the Commonwealth who are court appointed to represent indigent criminal defendants.
We talk to renowned Defense Attorney Daniel Beck - who says this time, he feels D.A. Rollins got it wrong.
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Former Head Coach Mike Jarvis sits down with us to discuss his career in coaching and how he's made it his mission to continue what he started: mentoring and teaching, just now off the court.
His three books, Everybody Needs A Head Coach, Skills For Life, and the 7 C's of Leadership tell the very poignant stories of what made Mike Jarvis the man he is today. And, he says, when it comes to coaching - now through is relationship with God - he's reaching for that ultimate prize!
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He's the Chief of Probation for the Cambridge District Courts, in Cambridge Massachusetts. But there's more to this kid from Cambridge than you think. Damon Banks is changing the minds of what makes probation works - by using what he learned as a social worker to help those on probation succeed.
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Former sports reporter and anchor Gary Gillis on Boston sports, Colin Kaepernick and whether college athletes should be paid.
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He’s been writing for over 30 years. Mike Curry – born and raised in the Grove Hall section of Boston – was introduced to the so-called streets as a teen. With no father at home, Mike says the streets became his father and where he learned some tough lessons.
He made mistakes that cost him years in prison. It took his freedom but never his mind, Mike says. So, with nothing but borrowed time on his side, he wrote. Six manuscripts. He said writing was his therapy and his way of relieving stress.
And now, that creative work has paid off. Mike Curry, owner and Founder of Unseen Handz Publications and contributing writer at Street Consequences Magazine is our guest with his first released novel, 3 Pounds of Pressure.
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In a world of instant gratification - one millennial scoffs at the idea and wants to return to when folks sat down and had conversations.
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Days before the 25th anniversary of the observance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Day, we sit down with retired Massachusetts Superior Court Justice Charles T. Spurlock to discuss race in the criminal justice system, the New York Times' 1619 project, and why people need to get out in vote this presidential election like never before!
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Aron Lee, Founder and CEO of DEILAB joins us to discuss how he found his secret to success and how YOU can find yours too in part 2 of his amazing story.
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On The PowerPLAY, Rob Stull, the creator and curator of Sequential Art: The Next Step - a first of its kind traveling exhibit - spotlights the contributions of African Americans in mainstream comic book art and popular culture. The renown artist discusses how he uses art to tackle issues of race and power in our society; the inspiration he passes down to his students; and why Hip Hop - as we knows it - is dead.
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Imagine this - a childhood game we all played used to teach innovation by testing ideas, analyzing results, converting failure into an asset through structured yet playful iteration and rapid prototyping - AND - you don't have to be 5 years old to participate.
Aron Lee, Founder and CEO of DEILAB joins us to discuss how he found his secret to success and how YOU can find yours too in part 1 of his amazing story.
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