Philadelphia Community Podcast

WDAS (WDAS-FM)

Each week, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks to community leaders and groups in the Philadelphia region about topics affecting our local communities and upcoming events. Insight airs Sunday on WDAS FM 6-7 am and 7-7:30 am on Power 99. What's Going On airs Sundays on Q102, ALT 104.5, and 1480 Breakthrough Radio.

  1. 5h ago

    What's Going On: Wells Fargo Help for Homebuyers, Moms Clean Air Force, Venezuela Earthquake Relief

    Building the Dream of Homeownership with Wells Fargo Homeownership remains one of the most powerful ways to build wealth, strengthen communities, and create generational opportunity. On this episode of Insight, we're joined by Ernest L. Campbell Sr. and Gustavo Laserna from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Together, they discuss practical steps first-time homebuyers can take to prepare for homeownership, explain how Wells Fargo's Dream. Plan. Home.® program and Homebuyer Access Grant can help reduce upfront costs, and share how community partnerships are expanding access to affordable homeownership throughout the region. They explain why financial education is the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or simply planning for the future, this conversation offers valuable guidance and resources.  Resources: ·         Wells Fargo Affordable Home Buying OptionsWells Fargo Home Mortgage🎙️Clean Air, Climate Policy & Our Families Today we’re talking about clean air, climate policy, and what it all means for our families. Joining us is Patrice Tomcik, Senior National Field Director for Moms Clean Air Force, where she leads national field programs, campaigns, and operations. Moms Clean Air Force partners with Environmental Defense Fund to advocate for strong environmental protections that safeguard children’s health. Patrice’s advocacy began when gas wells were permitted to be fracked just a half mile from her children’s schools in southwestern Pennsylvania — a moment that transformed her into a national voice for clean air protections. In this episode, we break down what the “Endangerment Finding” means, why it’s under legal challenge, and how climate and air pollution policies directly affect families — especially in urban communities. Learn more: 🌐 Environmental Defense Fund: https://www.edf.org/ Follow Environmental Defense Fund: 📲 X: https://x.com/envdefensefund 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/environmental_defense_fund 📲 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnvDefenseFund/ 📲 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@environmental_defense_fund Follow Moms Clean Air Force: 🌐 https://www.momscleanairforce.org/ 📲 Instagram: @momscleanairforce 📲 Facebook: Moms Clean Air Force   Helping Venezuela After the Earthquake In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela, thousands of families are facing enormous challenges as rescue, recovery, and humanitarian relief efforts continue. International aid organizations and community partners are working to provide food, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies to those affected. On this episode of What's Going On, we're joined by Carmen Line, founder and executive director of the Del Carmen Foundation. She discusses the impact of the disaster on communities throughout Venezuela, the urgent humanitarian needs on the ground, and how people here can make a meaningful difference through donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships. If you've been looking for a trusted way to help, this conversation provides practical information on how your support can bring hope to families during this difficult time. How to Help: 🌐 Del Carmen Foundation📧 General Information: info@delcarmenfoundation.org📧 Donations: donations@delcarmenfoundation.org📞 (267) 992-3601📸 Instagram @delcarmenfoundation

    30 min

  2. 5h ago

    Insight Pt. 2: Wells Fargo Help for Homebuyers, Celebrate Mantua, Venezuela Earthquake Relief

    Building the Dream of Homeownership with Wells Fargo Homeownership remains one of the most powerful ways to build wealth, strengthen communities, and create generational opportunity. On this episode of Insight, we're joined by Ernest L. Campbell Sr. and Gustavo Laserna from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Together, they discuss practical steps first-time homebuyers can take to prepare for homeownership, explain how Wells Fargo's Dream. Plan. Home.® program and Homebuyer Access Grant can help reduce upfront costs, and share how community partnerships are expanding access to affordable homeownership throughout the region. They also explain why financial education is the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or simply planning for the future, this conversation offers valuable guidance and resources. Resources: ·         Wells Fargo Affordable Home Buying OptionsWells Fargo Home Mortgage  Celebrate Mantua – 250 Black Moves Movement is more than dance—it's history, culture, resilience, and community. On this episode of Insight, we welcome Iquail Shaheed, Executive Artistic Director of DANCE IQUAIL!, to discuss the upcoming Celebrate Mantua Festival and this year's inspiring theme, "250 Black Moves." Iquail shares how the festival grew from the 2020 Art Thrives from Black Lives rally into one of West Philadelphia's signature community celebrations. We also discuss how dance, wellness, education, and the arts can foster belonging, inspire young people, and preserve the rich legacy of Black movement and activism. Plus, hear about the exciting vision for the new Mantua Enterprise for Community, Culture, and Artistry. Event Details Celebrate Mantua Festival 📅 Saturday, July 11, 2026📍 Miles Mack Playground, West Philadelphia🎉 FREE admissionFeaturing live performances, drill teams, youth showcases, wellness activities, food trucks, family fun, and community resources.Learn More DANCE IQUAIL!Instagram @danceiquailInstagram @celebratemantuaFacebook – DANCE IQUAIL! Helping Venezuela After the Earthquake In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela, thousands of families are facing enormous challenges as rescue, recovery, and humanitarian relief efforts continue. International aid organizations and community partners are working to provide food, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies to those affected. On this episode of What's Going On, we're joined by Carmen Line, founder and executive director of the Del Carmen Foundation. She discusses the impact of the disaster on communities throughout Venezuela, the urgent humanitarian needs on the ground, and how people here can make a meaningful difference through donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships. If you've been looking for a trusted way to help, this conversation provides practical information on how your support can bring hope to families during this difficult time. How to Help 🌐 Del Carmen Foundation📧 General Information: info@delcarmenfoundation.org📧 Donations: donations@delcarmenfoundation.org📞 (267) 992-3601📸 Instagram @delcarmenfoundation

    30 min

  3. 5h ago

    Insight Pt. 1: Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambatti - VLS Journeys

    This week on Insight, guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambatti uncovers hidden chapters of American history with renowned historical archaeologist, author, and preservationist Dr. Cheryl LaRoche. Dr. LaRoche discusses her latest book, Apostle of Liberation: AME Bishop Paul Quinn and the Underground Railroad, and shares how archaeology, historical research, and storytelling are helping preserve the legacy of free Black communities and the Underground Railroad. She also previews a special community event in Philadelphia celebrating history, culture, and preservation.   Then, in her monthly feature "What Is Philadelphia Reading?" Vanesse welcomes Richard E. Ashby, Jr., Director of the Sharon Hill Public Library, President of the Pennsylvania Library Association, and Co-Founder of Literacy Nation. Ashby discusses the importance of libraries, literacy, and supporting independent authors across Pennsylvania through initiatives like Delco Reads. He also invites listeners to the upcoming Literacy Nation Independent Authors Book Fair, a free community event connecting readers, writers, and local authors.   Whether you're passionate about history, books, or lifelong learning, this episode celebrates the power of stories to educate, inspire, and connect communities.   Featured Event – Dr. Cheryl LaRoche Monday, July 6, 2026 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. LOVE LAB at The Fashion District Philadelphia 932 Market Street, Philadelphia   Literacy Nation Independent Authors Book Fair Saturday, August 8, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Container Village West Philadelphia Free and open to the public.   Resources • Dr. Cheryl LaRoche: https://www.drcheryllaroche.com • Literacy Nation: https://www.literacynation.org • Pennsylvania Library Association: https://www.palibraries.org  Follow Our Guests Dr. Cheryl LaRoche • Instagram: @drcheryllaroche • Facebook: Dr. Cheryl LaRoche • LinkedIn: Cheryl LaRoche   Richard E. Ashby, Jr. / Literacy Nation https://literacynationinc.org/Email: contact@literacynation.orgFacebook: Literacy Nation

    11 min

  4. Jun 24

    What's Going On: Compassion Cafe, Elevate 215, Africatown Diaspora Fest, FCC & 6ABC

    On this episode of What's Going On, we explore two inspiring stories about creating opportunities, building community, and empowering people to thrive. First, we travel to the Jersey Shore to learn about Compassion Cafe, a unique nonprofit coffee shop that is changing lives through meaningful employment. Sue Sharkey, Co-Founder and Trustee of Compassion Cafe, joins us to discuss the organization's mission of providing paid employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Now celebrating its sixth season, Compassion Cafe has become a beloved destination at the Sea Shell Resort in Beach Haven, New Jersey, where employees not only serve coffee and light fare but also share their talents through music, poetry, art, and personal connections that leave a lasting impact on visitors. We'll talk about the power of inclusion, dignity in the workplace, and how community support continues to fuel the cafe's success. 📍 Compassion Cafe Oceanfront at The Sea Shell Resort & Beach Club 10 N. Delaware Avenue Beach Haven, NJ 08008 🌐 Website: https://www.compassioncafe.org 📸 Instagram: @compassioncafelbi 📘 Facebook: Compassion Cafe LBI Next, we welcome Dr. Stacy Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215, to discuss the first year of Apply Philly Charter's new Rank and Match enrollment system. The innovative approach is helping Philadelphia families navigate school choice more easily by allowing them to rank schools based on preference and receive placement offers through a streamlined process. Dr. Holland shares what the first-year results reveal, lessons learned, and what families can expect moving forward.  🎓 Apply Philly Charter / Elevate 215 2025-26 Results:  🌐 Website: https://www.elevate215.org  📸 Instagram: @elevate_215 💼 LinkedIn: Elevate 215 Guest: Don't miss one of Philadelphia's signature cultural celebrations of the summer. The Africatown Diaspora Festival and PHL250 Celebration takes place Sunday, June 28, from Noon to 8 p.m. along the 5900–6500 blocks of Woodland Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia. The free, family-friendly event features live music, cultural performances, food vendors, merchandise, and a celebration of African, Caribbean, and African American culture under the theme, "One People • One Cause • One Destiny."  📅 Sunday, June 28, 2026 🕛 Noon – 8:00 PM  5900–6500 Woodland Avenue, Southwest Philadelphia 🎟️ Free and Open to the Public 🌐 https://www.acanaus.org 🌐 https://www.africatownphilly.org 📸 Instagram: @acanaus 📸 Instagram: @africatownphilly Finally - an editorial about the FCC's move to challenge the TV licence of 6ABC and what that means for all of us. Join us as we celebrate inclusion, educational opportunity, and the rich cultural traditions that continue to strengthen our communities.

    29 min

  5. Jun 24

    Insight Pt. 2: HBCU Swingman Classic, Elevate 215, Africatown Diaspora Festival, FCC & 6ABC

    This week on Insight, we spotlight three powerful stories that celebrate opportunity, culture, and community engagement across Philadelphia. First, as Philadelphia prepares to host Major League Baseball's 96th All-Star Game, we speak with Kenny Johnson, Community Engagement Manager for the Philadelphia Phillies, about the HBCU Swingman Classic presented by USA Baseball. Co-created by Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., the event showcases 50 of the nation's top HBCU baseball student-athletes while celebrating the rich legacy and future of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Kenny shares how this exciting event kicks off MLB All-Star Week and highlights the Phillies' commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community impact. ⚾ HBCU SWINGMAN CLASSIC  📅 Friday, July 10, 2026 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA 🎟️ Tickets available through MLB All-Star Week and the Philadelphia Phillies  🌐 MLB All-Star Week: https://www.mlb.com/all-star 🌐 Phillies All-Star Information: https://www.mlb.com/phillies 📸 Instagram: @phillies 📘 Facebook: Philadelphia Phillies 🐦 X: @Phillies Next, we welcome Dr. Stacy Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215, to discuss the first year of Apply Philly Charter's new Rank and Match enrollment system. Designed to simplify the charter school application process for Philadelphia families, the new system resulted in nearly 11,000 students receiving school offers this year. Dr. Holland explains how the process works, what the results reveal about family preferences, and how the initiative aims to make school choice more transparent and equitable. 🎓 APPLY PHILLY CHARTER 🌐 Website: https://www.elevate215.org 📸 Instagram: @elevate_215 💼 LinkedIn: Elevate 215 We head to Southwest Philadelphia for a preview of the Africatown Diaspora Festival and PHL250 Celebration. Kou Dolo, Communications Director for the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), joins us to discuss this free, family-friendly festival celebrating the cultures, traditions, and contributions of African, Caribbean, and African American communities. Featuring live music, cultural performances, food vendors, art, and community engagement, the festival promises a vibrant day of unity under the theme "One People • One Cause • One Destiny."    🌍 AFRICATOWN DIASPORA FESTIVAL & PHL250 CELEBRATION 📅 Sunday, June 28, 2026 🕛 Noon – 8:00 PM 📍 5900–6500 Blocks of Woodland Avenue Southwest Philadelphia 🎟️ Free and open to the public 🌐 ACANA: https://www.acanaus.org 🌐 Africatown Philadelphia: https://www.africatownphilly.org 📸 Instagram: @acanaus 📸 Instagram: @africatownphilly 📘 Facebook: ACANA Finally - an editorial about the FCC's move to challenge the TV licence of 6ABC and what that means for all of us. Join us as we explore how sports, education, and culture are helping to build stronger communities and create opportunities for the next generation throughout Philadelphia and beyond.

    30 min

  6. Jun 24

    Insight Pt. 1: TCRC Community Healing Center

    On this episode of Insight, we sit down with J. Jondhi Harrell, a nationally recognized community activist, reentry advocate, and Executive Director of the TCRC Community Healing Center. Through innovative programs focused on food rescue, conflict resolution, and support for formerly incarcerated individuals, TCRC is helping tackle some of Philadelphia’s most pressing challenges—food insecurity, community violence, and the long-term effects of mass incarceration. Harrell shares his extraordinary journey from spending 25 years incarcerated to becoming a leading voice for healing, justice, and community empowerment. We discuss the realities facing Philadelphia families today, the importance of restorative approaches to public safety, and how communities can create pathways to hope, opportunity, and lasting change. Learn how TCRC is transforming lives through service, compassion, and community-driven solutions—and discover ways you can get involved in building a stronger Philadelphia. Learn More:Website: TCRC Community Healing CenterInstagram: @tcrcphillyFacebook: TCRC Community Healing Center Facebook#Insight #JJondhiHarrell #TCRC #CommunityHealing #FoodJustice #ViolencePrevention #Reentry #Philadelphia #CommunityEmpowerment #SocialJustice #PublicAffairs #LoraineBallardMorrill

    12 min

  7. Jun 17

    What's Going On: Africatown Diaspora Fest, Philadelphia Orchestra & Ensemble Arts, SpeakOUT

    Africatown Diaspora Festival & PHL250 Celebration Africatown Diaspora Festival & PHL250 Celebration Philadelphia’s Africatown community is preparing for one of the city’s most vibrant cultural celebrations of the summer. In this episode, we welcome Kou Dolo, Communications Director for the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), to discuss the upcoming Africatown Diaspora Festival and PHL250 Celebration. Taking place on Saturday, June 28, from noon to 8 p.m. along the 5900–6500 blocks of Woodland Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia, this free, family-friendly festival will feature live music, cultural performances, food vendors, cultural merchandise, and a celebration of the rich traditions and contributions of African, Caribbean, and African American communities. Kou shares the vision behind Africatown Philadelphia, the significance of the festival's theme—"One People • One Cause • One Destiny"—and how the event connects local communities to Philadelphia's 250th anniversary celebration. We also discuss the power of culture, music, food, and community-building in bringing people together across generations and backgrounds. Event Details Saturday, June 28, 2026 | Noon–8 PM 5900–6500 Blocks of Woodland Avenue, Southwest Philadelphia Free and open to the public Learn More ACANA: https://www.acanaus.org Africatown Philadelphia: https://africatownphilly.org Follow Instagram: @acanaus | @africatownphilly Facebook: ACANA  The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts: Connecting Communities Through the Arts We’re joined by Andrea Garcia, the new Vice President of Communications for The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts. Andrea brings more than a decade of experience in corporate, government, and nonprofit communications, including leadership roles with the City of Los Angeles and Comcast. Now she is helping shape the communications strategy for one of Philadelphia’s most iconic cultural institutions as it continues to expand its impact both locally and globally. Andrea discusses her professional journey, the importance of inclusive storytelling, and the many ways The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts engage communities throughout the region through music, education, and cultural programming. We also get a preview of the exciting 2026-27 season and learn how the organization is working to reach new audiences while honoring its world-class artistic legacy. Learn More www.philorch.org www.ensembleartsphilly.org Follow Instagram: @philorch | @ensembleartsphilly Facebook: @philorch | @ensembleartsphilly Threads: @philorch | @ensembleartsphilly TikTok: @philorch | @ensembleartsphilly LinkedIn: The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts  SpeakOUT: Pride, Progress, and the Future of Marriage Equality For our monthly SpeakOUT feature, we focus on issues affecting LGBTQIA+ communities and their impact on society as a whole. This month, we welcome back Angela Giampolo, founder of Giampolo Law Group and widely known as Philly Gay Lawyer. As Pride Month celebrations continue, Angela reflects on the progress that has been made for LGBTQIA+ rights while also highlighting challenges that remain. We discuss an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court case that could have significant implications for marriage equality, what is at stake for families across the country, and how individuals can become informed, engaged, and involved in protecting civil rights. Angela also offers practical ways listeners can support LGBTQIA+ communities year-round. Learn More https://www.giampololaw.com https://www.caravanofhope.org Follow Instagram: @yourgaylawyer Facebook: Philly Gay Lawyer TikTok: @Gaylawyer

    31 min

  8. Jun 17

    Insight Pt. 2: Africatown Diaspora Festival, Overcoming Bullying, New Treatment for Anal Fistula

    Africatown Diaspora Festival & PHL250 Celebration Philadelphia’s Africatown community is preparing for one of the city’s most vibrant cultural celebrations of the summer. On this episode, we welcome Kou Dolo, Communications Director for the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), to discuss the upcoming Africatown Diaspora Festival and PHL250 Celebration. Taking place on Saturday, June 28, from noon to 8 p.m. along the 5900–6500 blocks of Woodland Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia, this free, family-friendly festival will feature live music, cultural performances, food vendors, merchandise, and a celebration of the rich traditions and contributions of African, Caribbean, and African American communities. Kou shares the vision behind Africatown Philadelphia, the significance of the festival’s theme—"One People • One Cause • One Destiny"—and how the event connects local communities to Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary celebration. We also explore the power of culture, food, music, and community-building in bringing people together. Event Details: Saturday, June 28, 2026 | Noon–8 PM 5900–6500 Blocks of Woodland Avenue, Southwest Philadelphia Free and open to the public Learn more: ACANA: https://www.acanaus.org Africatown Philadelphia: https://africatownphilly.org Follow: Instagram: @acanaus | @africatownphilly Facebook: ACANA   Vaniece Washington: Overcoming Bullying Through Storytelling We explore the lasting impact of bullying, the importance of mental health awareness, and the power of storytelling to inspire healing and change. Our guest is Vaniece Washington, author, poet, screenwriter, advocate, and graduate student whose personal experiences with bullying inspired her faith-based book and award-winning screenplay, How I Overcame Middle School. At just 23 years old, Vaniece is using her voice to encourage young people to persevere through adversity and reminding them that they are seen, heard, and valued. During our conversation, she shares her journey from author to aspiring filmmaker, discusses the emotional toll bullying can take on students, and offers practical advice for parents, educators, and school administrators. Vaniece also talks about her advocacy for mental health, her pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Television Studies, and her dream of bringing her powerful story to audiences around the world through film. Learn more: Vaniece Washington Official Website Follow: Instagram: @iamvaniece TikTok: @vibin_wit_vaniece LinkedIn: Vaniece Washington   Anal Fistula Awareness & New Treatment Options with Dr. Philip Pearson Anal fistulas affect thousands of people every year, yet many suffer in silence because of the pain, stigma, and embarrassment surrounding the condition. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Philip Pearson, colorectal surgeon, educator, and social media personality known as the “Singing Surgeon,” about the physical and emotional impact anal fistulas can have on patients and families. Dr. Pearson explains what anal fistulas are, how they develop, and why early diagnosis and treatment are so important. We discuss the challenges associated with traditional treatment options and explore BioHealx, a new minimally invasive bioabsorbable implant designed to treat anal fistulas while preserving continence and reducing the need for repeat procedures. BioHealx received FDA De Novo authorization in 2024 and is offering new hope for patients seeking effective treatment with fewer complications. In addition to discussing advances in colorectal care, Dr. Pearson shares how he uses music and social media to educate the public, reduce stigma, and make difficult health conversations more approachable. Learn more: https://www.signumsurgical.com https://www.mainlinehealth.org/find-a-doctor/philip-y-pearson Follow: Instagram: @signumsurgical LinkedIn: Signum Surgical

    29 min
See All (1K)

About

Each week, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks to community leaders and groups in the Philadelphia region about topics affecting our local communities and upcoming events. Insight airs Sunday on WDAS FM 6-7 am and 7-7:30 am on Power 99. What's Going On airs Sundays on Q102, ALT 104.5, and 1480 Breakthrough Radio.

Information