NEXT with Marcus Atkinson

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The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today. In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the perspective of its next generation of voices – voices of those who are taking the lead on various aspects of the community. As it was during the days of the iconic Dr. King, the winds of change are often reflected in the actions and words of a younger and more idealistic age group.

  1. 3D AGO

    Setting the record Straight on the MLK Center’s Executive Director Search

    On this special and deeply personal episode of NEXT2.0, the tables are turned. NEXT2.0 host Marcus Atkinson steps out from behind the microphone as his co-hosts Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata take the lead, interviewing Marcus about his current role as Interim Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Center in the wake of the passing of longtime Executive Director James C. Sherrod. Airing on WQLN NPR 91.3 FM, this episode addresses a topic of significant public interest: the search for the MLK Center’s next permanent Executive Director. With the organization playing a vital role in Erie’s civic, cultural, and social justice landscape, the transition has drawn thoughtful questions and deep concern from the community. In this candid and transparent conversation, Marcus discusses:  The immediate challenges following a sudden leadership loss  The board’s approach to stability, stewardship, and continuity  How the Executive Director search process is being structured  The importance of public trust, accountability, and clear communication This interview is part of a broader effort by Marcus and the MLK Center’s Board of Directors to proactively inform the public, dispel misinformation, and invite the community into an open dialogue about the future of the organization. Honest, reflective, and grounded in service, this episode of NEXT2.0 exemplifies the show’s mission: exploring leadership, community impact, and the real conversations that shape Erie’s future.

    52 min

  2. JAN 16

    Is AI Leveling the Playing Field for Entrepreneurs?

    As we head into 2026, entrepreneurship is surging—not just because of artificial intelligence, but because of a more profound shift in how people define work, opportunity, and success. While AI continues to dominate headlines, new data suggests that the future of entrepreneurship may be just as human as it is technological. In this episode, we examine ten key entrepreneurial trends shaping 2026 and ask a critical question: Is AI truly leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs—or simply changing the rules? From the growing number of Americans choosing business ownership over traditional employment, to the rise of “blue-collar entrepreneurship” and non-AI-dependent industries, we explore where real opportunity is emerging. Join host Marcus Atkinson and his special guest, Regional Artist and entrepreneur Kenny Base, for a timely conversation about technology, humanity, and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape—where AI may be a powerful tool, but human values remain the true differentiator. Today, On NEXT2.0

    48 min

  3. JAN 9

    Coaching and Legacy: Shannon Pulliam

    Marcus Atkinson sits down with long-time basketball coach, Shannon Pulliam to discuss topics like coaching, mentorship and passing the torch.

    27 min

  4. JAN 2

    Bishop Quinn

    Bishop Frankie Quinn and Marcus Atkinson sit down for an end-of-the-year discussion about resolutions, charity and blessings. Bishop Quinn also shares the story of how his church (of Christian faith) acquired a building that recently served as a Jewish synagogue.

    59 min

  5. 12/12/2025

    Deconstructing a Controversy: The Scholarly and Cultural Failings of a Public Essay

    Host Chuck Cammarata leads a critical discussion with panelists Tyler Titus, Aaron Cronin, and Raven Cammarata on a recent, controversial public essay by Samantha Fulnecky. The conversation moves beyond initial reactions to analyze the work's fundamental academic shortcomings, its flawed cultural arguments, and its ultimate failure to substantiate its central claims. The panel situates this specific piece as part of a larger, systemic pattern of discourse, examining what such writings reveal about the current landscape of public argument and intellectual rigor. This episode offers a measured, analytical dissection of how ideas gain traction and why robust critical evaluation remains essential.

    53 min

  6. 12/05/2025

    Biblical Foundations: A Pastor's Call to Textual Integrity in Modern Christianity

    Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Pastor Malcolm Beall and Pastor Kendall Hunter of Federated Church for a thoughtful discussion on scriptural fidelity in contemporary Christian practice. The pastors discuss the importance of grounding church teaching and personal faith in the Bible's teachings, cautioning against the trend of importing external meanings or popular online interpretations that diverge from the text. Sharing their own journeys to ministry, Pastor Beall and Pastor Hunter explain their shared dedication to a principled, Bible-centered approach to pastorship. This conversation explores the challenges and necessities of maintaining theological integrity in the modern age.

    59 min

  7. 11/28/2025

    A Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie

    Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, the discussion honors his profound dedication to Erie. They explore the nature of his legacy, the personal impact of his work, and how his guidance inspired a deeper commitment to community engagement and stronger local leadership. This episode serves as a tribute to a man whose work continues to resonate throughout the city he served.

    21 min

  8. 11/07/2025

    A New Political Era for Erie: Analyzing the Democratic Sweep and the Rise of Women Leaders

    The hosts of Next 2.0, Marcus Atkinson, Chuck Cammarata, and Marc Blount, convene to analyze the results of the recent local Erie elections. The discussion focuses on the decisive sweep by Democratic nominees, including new County Executive Chair Christina Vogel and Mayoral winner Darya Devlin. The panel examines this significant political shift, considering the emergent trend of women ascending to Erie's highest offices and what this new leadership paradigm represents for the community. They explore the potential departure from a previous era of political style, discussing what this change in leadership tone and focus could mean for the future of the city and county.

    50 min
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About

The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today. In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the perspective of its next generation of voices – voices of those who are taking the lead on various aspects of the community. As it was during the days of the iconic Dr. King, the winds of change are often reflected in the actions and words of a younger and more idealistic age group.

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