Group Chat Bentley

Today’s chat sprints into the 2024 Olympics, Paralympics and world of Adaptive Sports - with a surprise topic at the finish line! Bentley is thrilled to welcome back Group Chat stars, Dr. Naila Ansari and Ashleigh Chrisena Ricci. Joining them is athletic powerhouse Ben Richard from Greater Buffalo Adaptive Sports. They dive into Sha’Carri Richardson’s blazing comeback, Simone Biles’ awe-inspiring return to the floor, and the mixed reviews over Team USA’s uniforms. The conversation takes a powerful turn into Adaptive Sports, reshaping our views on athleticism and inclusivity. Catch this dynamic sports chat with a golden pop culture twist at the end (hint: it’s not just gold medals we’re talking about)!

Bentley and her guests delve into Paramount's drastic content purge, society’s craving for unapologetic stars, the rise of AI companions, and more! This episode features Dr. Naila Ansari, Buffalo State University Professor, choreographer, podcaster, and performing artist; Akram Shibly, filmmaker, podcaster, and Content Producer at Buffalo Toronto Public Media; and Patrick Hosken, Arts Writer at Rochester's CITY magazine, adjunct Professor at Syracuse University's Newhouse School, and former MTV News editor. The crew talks about the ripple effects of Paramount’s media wipeout that erased years of content from websites like MTV News, Comedy Central, and CMT. The chat heats up with a dive into upcoming movies like “Twisters” and “Joker: Folie à Deux,” and the ascent of authentic, unapologetic celebrities. In a fascinating twist, the convo ventures into augmented reality, chatbots, and AI companions, exploring their impact on human connection. Join Bentley, Naila, Akram and Patrick as they gather at the intersection of pop culture, media preservation, and technology!

Bentley and her guests kick off this week’s chat with today's most explosive pop culture feuds! Joining her are Cory McCants, performer and host of Buffalo Toronto Public Media’s (BTPM) Compact History and Compact Civics; Ashleigh Chrisena Ricci, performer and host of BTPM’s Let’s Go!; Donny Kutzbach, Co-Owner of Town Ballroom; and special guest, Charles Gilbert, WBFO Producer and hip-hop aficionado. Together, they unpack everything from fierce musical rivalries to the Nielsen Top 10 Streaming list. They talk about the impact of viral performances like Kendrick Lamar’s Juneteenth concert and break down the cultural significance of diss tracks. The conversation takes a turn into chart-topping shows like Bridgerton and the fine line between artistic liberties and historical accuracy. Join this week’s crew as they cruise through the hottest pop culture showdowns and binge-worthy series.

Prepare for an epic collision of culinary excellence and pop culture as host Bentley brings three professional chefs together - Chef Stephen Forman, Regional Executive Chef for Delaware North Sportservice and owner of Thyme-N-Honey; Chef Camille Le Caër, Private Chef and seasoned competitor on Food Network; and Chef Zina Lapi, owner of Casa Azul. The group talks about their culinary journeys, the intense world of professional kitchens, and how shows like The Bear reflect real kitchen life. Plus, they get into Buffalo’s vibrant food scene and must-haves for the ultimate 4th of July BBQ. Grab a snack and get ready for this week’s sizzling group chat!

For the second week in a row, Bentley welcomes another trio of new guests, author and former librarian, Jessica Topper, Managing Director of Raíces Theatre Company, singer, actor, and the author of a new children's book, María Pérez Gómez, and avid reader Danielle Gabamonte, who loves to analyze adaptations from book to big screen. They talk everything from the rise in book clubs, popular reading apps, the future of libraries, and adaptation successes and blunders. Come along as we celebrate the written word on Group Chat!

Join host Bentley and our trio of new guests, Gi Swords, Director of Programs at GLYS (Growing LGBTQ+ Youth Services), Sebastian Newell, Theatre Production and Art History student at Niagara University, and Morgan Koziel, Buffalo State University student and Audio Operations Assistant at Buffalo Toronto Public Media, as they chat about the influence of pop culture on Queer youth. They talk everything from inspiring role models and iconic movies to favorite video games, along with advice they’d give to their younger selves. Plus, you'll hear about the important work GLYS is doing for LGBTQ+ youth and families. Come along as we keep the Pride month celebrations rolling!