The Stir 716

JazzCast Pros Network
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
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Are you looking for actionable ways to improve your community and well-being? Welcome to THE STIR 716! Live from Buffalo, NY, our episodes stir up essential conversations about how our local and global communities are impacted by public health policy and practice, wealth generation, the criminal justice system, and the state of education. On this podcast you can expect to hear from community members and leading industry experts who will challenge us to re-think, re-frame, and re-energize discussions to provoke action!  Tune in to hear inspiring stories and gain relevant insights from qualified professionals on topics including social justice, equity and inclusion, financial stewardship, community accountability, social cohesion and protection of rights! New episodes every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month on the JazzCast Pros Network. Website: The Stir 716 Follow us on IG @TheStir716 LinkedIn: The Stir Seven One Six Youtube: @TheStir716 This is THE STIR — the only podcast where education meets elevation. - Tasha, Natasha & Kim About the Hosts: Mrs. T aka “The Spark” (Expertise: Education) As a renowned author and public speaker, Tasha Pratcher-Brown, MS Ed, known as The Mrs. T a/k/a “The Spark”, delivers captivating keynote addresses and interactive workshops that inspire audiences to transition to new heights. Having obtained a Master of Science in Education, Mrs. T has served in roles ranging from Adjunct Professor to Program Director at several higher education institutions.  Kimberly Slew-Ngarambe aka “The Cool Cuz’n” (Expertise: Research) is a senior leader in health equity with over a decade of experience in research, policy development, and community engagement. She has been instrumental in reducing race-based health inequities both nationally and in Western New York. Kimberly holds a B.A. in History from SUNY University at Buffalo, an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Medaille University and is currently a Doctoral Student in Public Health (DrPH) at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Natasha Manning aka “The Doc” (Expertise: Healthcare) is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She aims to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. She utilizes evidence-based guidelines in addition to clinical experience, personal observation, and clinical judgment through her practice. As a PMHNP, her role is multifaceted, including adjunct educator, and mental health advocate. Music "Walkaway" by Moutaineer from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/walk-away License code: BCAQ6KHPOQGBLMZN

Episodes

  1. 11/11/2025

    Feeding Our People: SNAP Delays in the U.S. & Relief for Jamaica

    Ep. 8 If you can spare a meal, a minute, or your voice — please listen. Families in the U.S. and in Jamaica are hurting right now, and we need each other more than ever. On this episode of The Stir 716, we dig into what’s really happening on the ground. SNAP benefits have already been delayed, and millions of families across America are struggling to keep food on the table. We’re seeing it in grocery stores, in schools, at food pantries, and in the lives of people we know personally. We talk about how political gridlock and leadership disconnected from everyday people are forcing communities to carry the burden. Hunger didn’t just happen — it was caused by decisions made by people who don’t feel the consequences. We share the heartbreak of watching the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica — a place where our families live, where our roots are deep, and where recovery is slow and painful. People are displaced, without basic resources, and praying that help comes fast. We need responsible aid, accurate information, and real solidarity. 🔑 In this conversation, we explore: SNAP delays as the Government shutdown enters its second month. How food insecurity is spreading across households, schools, and neighborhoods Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica and why correct historical context matters How food, housing, education, and healthcare are tied to community health Why community power and policy change are the only way forward 💬 Some of the words we stand on: “The voice of the people needs to be the loudest voice in your ear.” — Tasha “You can tell a lot about a civilization by how they treat the elderly and the children.” — Kim “Until it touches their lives, nothing changes. That’s why community pressure matters.” — The Doc If you can help right now: Donate to local food banks and trusted Jamaica relief efforts Volunteer with distribution and meal programs: https://www.feedmorewny.org/programs-services/findfood/ https://211lifeline.org https://rcwny.org/services/outdoor-food-pantry/ Call your elected officials and demand immediate action Share this episode to bring awareness to those who can make a difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    33 min

  2. 10/14/2025

    Beyond Pink Ribbons: How Her Faith Kept Sadie Strong

    Ep. 7 What happens when a breast cancer survivor turns her pain into purpose? On this week’s episode of The Stir 716, hosts Natasha, Ms. T the Spark, and Cool Cousin Kim sit down with Sadie Sanford, founder of the Sadie Strong Project and president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, to talk faith, resilience, and the power of sisterhood 💕 Sadie shares how her unexpected diagnosis reshaped her life — from fighting for her health to fighting for every woman’s right to early detection, education, and support. This heartfelt conversation shines a light on the healthcare disparities facing Black women and reminds us that you can’t pour from an empty cup. 💪🏾 In This Episode: How faith and family fueled Sadie’s fight Why early detection saves lives The reality of healthcare disparities for Black women How community and sisterhood build strength in recovery 💻 Resources Mentioned: Sadie Strong Project — Awareness, education & empowerment for women battling breast cancer Delta Sigma Theta Sorority — Sisterhood, scholarship & service The Chi — A powerful TV show highlighting community and healing themes 🎧 Press play for an episode that will leave you inspired, informed, and reminded that with faith and community, no battle is fought alone. #TheStir716 #SadieStrong #BreastCancerAwareness #FaithOverFear #DeltaSigmaTheta #WomenSupportingWomen #HealingInCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  3. 09/23/2025

    From 9/11 Tragedy to Sudden Wealth + Leadership: A Teen Survivor’s Story

    Ep. 6 “The wealth of the wicked is laid up for the righteous.” In Part 2 of this moving conversation, Dr. Miles Travis Boyd Jr. reflects on life after losing his mother in the September 11 attacks—navigating grief, systemic injustice, and sudden wealth he wasn’t prepared to manage. At just 16 years old, he discovered he had access to over $1.4 million, but no one had ever taught him about budgeting, saving, or credit. Dr. Boyd’s testimony is both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope—showing that even when the money fades, God’s purpose remains. In this episode, you’ll learn: 💰 Why money without financial literacy can quickly vanish 🧾 The hidden costs of wealth and the lessons he learned the hard way 🙌 How faith, humility, and work helped him rebuild after hitting rock bottom 🌱 Why teaching financial literacy in our communities is a form of justice and empowerment 👤 About the Guest: Dr. Miles Travis Boyd Jr. is the senior pastor of Sharon Baptist Church in the South Bronx, New York City. A survivor of personal tragedy, he lost his mother in the September 11th attacks at just 12 years old. Today, he leads with a vision of faith, justice, and healing—building community programs, authoring a book about his journey, and serving as a voice of resilience and hope for his congregation and beyond. 🔗 Resources & Links: www.sbcbronx.com Watch this interview: The Stir 716 Podcast - YouTube The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is a federal program created to provide financial support to individuals injured or killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks, including responders and survivors who later developed health conditions from exposure at Ground Zero. Originally established in 2001, the fund was strengthened by the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which created the World Trade Center Health Program to provide medical monitoring and treatment. The fund was permanently reauthorized in 2019 through the Never Forget the Heroes Act, ensuring full funding for approved claims through 2092. Dr. Boyd reflects on the implicit inequality in compensation, revealing systemic biases where his settlement amounted to $999,999.99, suspiciously shy of the full million dollars and markedly less than others received. “The government gave us not a penny over to make it a million dollars.” Chapters: 0:00 – Mistaken Identity Sparks a Family Search2:05 – A Child’s Hope Shines Through Loss4:36 – Healing Trauma, Accepting the Past8:21 – A Son’s Journey to Self-Discovery10:08 – Rising Above Prejudice and Pain12:24 – 9/11 Victim Compensation: Life-Changing Impact13:31 – Fighting Systemic Racism in Legal Battles16:47 – Family Sacrifices Amid Market Ups & Downs20:54 – Hard Lessons in Money and Humility28:04 – Faith, Resilience & Community Strength34:59 – Honoring 9/11 with The Stir 716 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  4. 09/09/2025

    9/11 Through a Child’s Eyes: Waiting for Mom to Come Home

    Ep. 5 On September 11, 2001, 12-year-old Miles Travis Boyd’s world was shattered when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center—where his mother worked. In Part 1 of this conversation, Miles recounts the harrowing days and weeks he spent with his aunt and uncle, waiting and hoping for his mother’s return. His story pauses at a haunting moment: the phone call from a hospital saying they had found a woman with his mother’s name. This gripping first half lays the foundation for how grief would later call him into a life of faith, resilience, and leadership at the Sharon Baptist Church in the South Bronx, New York. 🔗 Resources & Links: www.sbcbronx.com Watch this interview: The Stir 716 Podcast - YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min

  5. 09/02/2025

    Youth & Justice: Bridging Gaps in the System with Judge McLeod

    Ep. 4 What does it really take to move justice from punishment to opportunity? This week on The Stir 716 we are honored to sit down with Retired Judge James A.W. McLeod — a true trailblazer in Buffalo’s legal and community landscape. Not only is he the great-nephew of civil rights icon Mary McLeod Bethune, but over nearly five decades he’s broken barriers, from serving as the first African American outside New York City to be a confidential law clerk, to leading the Legal Aid Bureau Public Defender’s Office. From family court to Erie County court, Judge McLeod has dedicated his career to equity, youth rehabilitation, and mentorship — and in this conversation, he shares wisdom that every one of us can learn from. ✨ Why mentorship and education are key to breaking cycles of crime ✨ The urgent need for mental health and youth-focused programs ✨ How businesses and schools can partner to fuel Buffalo’s growth ✨ The systemic challenges of racial disparities in justice 🔑 “Businesses thrive when you have a well-educated city.” – James McLeod If you care about justice, equity, and the future of Buffalo, this episode is a must-listen.  🔗 Resources Mentioned: The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander. Website: The Stir 716 Follow us on IG @TheStir716 LinkedIn: The Stir Seven One Six Youtube: @TheStir716 About the Guest:  Retired Buffalo City Court Judge James A.W. McLeod is a distinguished jurist and community leader with a career spanning nearly five decades. Judge McLeod earned his law degree from the University at Buffalo and became only the second African American attorney hired by a major Buffalo law firm. He went on to break multiple barriers as the first African American to serve as Erie County’s Second Assistant County Attorney and to head the Buffalo/Erie County Legal Aid Bureau. Throughout his career, Judge McLeod served on the bench in Buffalo City Court, Family Court, and Erie County Court, earning recognition for his commitment to equity, mentorship, and community service. Beyond the courtroom, he has been active in organizations such as the NAACP, Buffalo Urban League, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, while also serving on numerous civic boards. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 1:00 Welcome Judge James McLeod  3:00 What would you do as Mayor? 3:31 Revitalizing Buffalo Through Education and Business Collaboration 6:50 Business Tax 8:52 Why Did You Become a Lawyer? 9:40 Rising Crime Amongst Buffalo Youth 11:50 Reviving Community Involvement to Address Youth Challenges 14:59 Addressing Community Needs and Accountability in East Buffalo 17:41 Reducing Recidivism Through Education and Community Engagement 24:36 Generational Trauma and Evolving Respect in Youth 31:37 Encouraging Young Black Students to Pursue Careers in Law Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    39 min

  6. 08/12/2025

    For Richer, For Poorer | Wealth Manager Andrew Lavelle Cheatham

    Ep. 3 You’ve heard the saying “money can’t buy happiness” — but can partnership build wealth? 📈 In this eye-opening episode of The Stir 716, Mrs. T, Cool Cuz’n Kim, and Natasha sit down with wealth management expert Andrew Lavelle Cheatham to unpack the connection between race, marriage, and money. From breaking down the wealth gap to revealing why married couples have 74% higher net worth than single households, Andrew gets real about what it takes to create and sustain generational wealth — especially in the African American community. He also shares how financial literacy, strategic partnerships, and shifting cultural narratives can change the game for future generations. Whether you’re single, married, or somewhere in between, this conversation will challenge how you think about money, relationships, and your legacy. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The historical wealth gap could have been drastically reduced if African Americans had received their promised “40 acres and a mule.” Financial literacy is a must-have tool for overcoming generational disparities. Marriage, when rooted in mutual support, can be a powerful wealth-building partnership. Social media often distorts our understanding of true financial success. Community outreach and financial education are key to breaking cycles of poverty. Resources & Links: Connect with Andrew Cheatham: LinkedIn  Instagram: @drewlavalle 🎧 Listen now for practical tips, historical insights, and a fresh perspective on building lasting wealth in our communities. Chapters: 00:00 Intro to Building Wealth That Lasts 02:51 Buffalo’s Wealth Gap — What’s Really Holding Us Back 08:33 Marriage as a Money Multiplier 15:56 Church, Gender Roles and the Economics of Modern Relationships 22:17 Love, Vanity and the Price Tag of Expectations 26:54 Wealth Building in the Black Community: Partnership Over Isolation 32:03 From Prison to Prosperity: Teaching Inmates Financial Freedom 38:15 Faith, Networking and Leveling Up with The Stir 716 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min

  7. 07/22/2025

    Meet the 181st President of the AMA | Willie Underwood III, MD

    Ep. 2 What does it take to become one of the most powerful voices in American healthcare? Dr. Willie Underwood III didn't just beat the odds—he redefined them. From humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to the highest ranks of the American Medical Association, his story is a blueprint for turning purpose into power. 🩺🔥 Join hosts Mrs. T (The Spark), Natasha (The Doc), and Cool Cuz’n Kim as they sit down with the newly elected President of the AMA, only the third Black physician in the organization's 177-year history to do so and the 2nd Urologist inHistory. In this intimate and impactful conversation, Dr. Underwood breaks down the real-world impact of health disparities, why equity matters more than ever, and how community, mentorship, and mindset create lasting leaders. Key Takeaways: Leaders are created. Dr. Underwood’s story proves that with the right support system and self-determination, anything is possible. Health equity is a human right. Systemic disparities aren’t just unfair—they’re expensive and deadly. Prostate cancer prevention is urgent. Black and brown men face significantly higher risks, and early detection saves lives. Strategic planning = health justice. Building equity requires community-driven solutions that address root causes. Family matters. Parental expectations and belief in a child’s greatness help to shape future trailblazers. 🗣️ Memorable Quotes from Dr. Underwood: “You have to see greatness in yourself to see greatness in your children.” “Health inequity... if you’re rich, white, educated, and insured, your outcomes are better. That’s not equality.” “You do your part, and God will do the rest.” Willie Underwood, III, MD, MSc, MPH, FACS is a board-certified urologist, TEDx speaker, and the 2025 president-elect of the American Medical Association. With over 25 years in urologic surgery and a focus on health equity, he’s led numerous national health policy efforts and holds leadership roles across major medical organizations. Dr. Underwood is also a published researcher, prostate cancer innovator, and co-founder of KAPS Biotechnology. 🔗 Resources & Links: 🎓 Dr. Underwood's AMA President-Elect Bio 🏥 KAPS Biotechnology LLC  🏛️ American Medical Association (AMA) 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that greatness comes from grit—and the power of purpose. #HealthEquity #BlackDoctors #AMA #DrUnderwood #TheStir716 #BuffaloPride #ProstateCancerAwareness #LeadershipMatters Chapters: 00:00 Dr. Willie Underwood III Joins The Stir 716 Podcast 02:24 Childhood Influences and the Path to Becoming a Doctor 08:46 Overcoming Educational Inequities and Personal Challenges 14:26 From Struggling Reader to Academic and Athletic Leader 16:27 The Importance of Community Support in Personal Development 19:14 It Takes a Village 20:45 Lost Community Values and Generational Gaps 23:27 Cultural Expectations and Career Choices in Black Communities 24:35 Becoming a Morehouse Man and the Path to Medical School 31:56 Resilience and Sacrifice  37:56 Achieving Success Without a Father Figure 39:17 Addressing Health Equity to Enhance National Productivity 43:37 Maternal Mortality Disparities Persist in Modern Healthcare 46:40 Healthcare Policy Impacts on Black and Brown Communities 51:01 Prostate Cancer Awareness and Preventative Care 54:55 Empowering Children Through Intentional Parenting and Education Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr

  8. 07/08/2025

    What Does Independence Really Mean?

    Ep. 1 Think you're independent? Not so fast. What if your definition of independence has been shaped by fear, systems of control, or outdated expectations of what we should be? In this bold and unfiltered first episode of The Stir, Mrs. T aka The Spark, The Doc and your Cool Cuz’n Kim unpack what independence really means—from the deeply personal to the unapologetically political. These former radio co-hosts don’t hold back as they reflect on their own journeys as women, mothers, wives, professionals, and business owners navigating freedom in a society still learning what that word means. 💬 Quotes that stir: “I love my independence. And one of the things that I love about being independent and really being in this country... is that you can still be free in this place because you have to free your mind.” — Mrs. T aka The Spark “Independence for me is divorcing myself from people’s opinions... and operating in my God-given authenticity.” — Cool Cuz’n Kim “You have to build your own independency. You have the freedom to make those choices and make those decisions.” — The Doc 🌀  Ask yourself: What are some ways you can become more independent? In what ways has independence scared you? Do a SWOT analysis of your codependency: Where has it helped? Where has it hurt? 🎧 Subscribe now and join the Stirred community as we challenge norms, honor growth, and reclaim the power of choice. 📩 Email us: thestir@powershift.live 🌐 Visit: www.thestir716.com 📱 Follow: @thestir716 on Instagram & YouTube Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome to The Stir 00:44 - Independence Day vs. Juneteenth: Dual Realities 01:50 - What Does Independence Mean to You? 02:15 - Mrs. T on Freeing Your Mind 03:20 - The Doc Reclaims Her Voice After Divorce 05:12 - Cool Cuz’n Kim on Emotional Freedom & Authenticity 07:02 - Michelle Obama: The Balance of Power and Partnership 10:03 - Teaching Children Independence Early 10:54 - Black & Brown Communities and Systemic Dependence 12:44 - Historical Barriers to Women's Financial Freedom 14:22 - Fear as a Tool of Control & Suppression 17:06 - Building Your Own Independence 18:12 - Faith, the Church & Women's Role Preparation 20:00 - Independence ≠ Rebellion: Protecting Your Peace 23:18 - Mental Slavery and Independent Thinking 25:50 - The Power of Thought & Independent Learning 26:21 - Health Autonomy: Rethinking Modern Medicine 30:10 - Advocate for Yourself in Healthcare 33:06 - Listener Call to Action: What Independence Means to You 36:00 - Final Reflections: Feel the Fear & Do It Anyway 36:48 - Closing Blessings & What’s Next on The Stir Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    39 min

  9. TRAILER

    Introducing The Stir 716 Podcast

    When a seasoned educator, a frontline healthcare expert, and a health equity strategist come together, expect more than just talk — expect a movement! Welcome to The Stir 716 — where education meets conversation. Hosted by Mrs. T (The Spark), The Doc (Natasha), and your Cool Cuz'n Kim, this is the podcast that stirs up the real issues affecting the Black community: 🏥 Health 🏘️ Housing 📚 Education 🍽️ Food justice ⚖️ Equity — from the womb to the tomb. No fluff. Just fire. With lived experience and receipts to match, your hosts speak truth with care and clarity — breaking it all down for the culture, for the people. 🚨 FIRST EPISODE DROPS JULY 8 Don’t miss the fireworks after the 4th — hit subscribe and get ready for bold, unfiltered truth that inspires action. ☕ Grab a pen, grab a cup, even grab a spoon. Get ready to be inspired. This is The Stir 716! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2 min

Trailer

About

Are you looking for actionable ways to improve your community and well-being? Welcome to THE STIR 716! Live from Buffalo, NY, our episodes stir up essential conversations about how our local and global communities are impacted by public health policy and practice, wealth generation, the criminal justice system, and the state of education. On this podcast you can expect to hear from community members and leading industry experts who will challenge us to re-think, re-frame, and re-energize discussions to provoke action!  Tune in to hear inspiring stories and gain relevant insights from qualified professionals on topics including social justice, equity and inclusion, financial stewardship, community accountability, social cohesion and protection of rights! New episodes every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month on the JazzCast Pros Network. Website: The Stir 716 Follow us on IG @TheStir716 LinkedIn: The Stir Seven One Six Youtube: @TheStir716 This is THE STIR — the only podcast where education meets elevation. - Tasha, Natasha & Kim About the Hosts: Mrs. T aka “The Spark” (Expertise: Education) As a renowned author and public speaker, Tasha Pratcher-Brown, MS Ed, known as The Mrs. T a/k/a “The Spark”, delivers captivating keynote addresses and interactive workshops that inspire audiences to transition to new heights. Having obtained a Master of Science in Education, Mrs. T has served in roles ranging from Adjunct Professor to Program Director at several higher education institutions.  Kimberly Slew-Ngarambe aka “The Cool Cuz’n” (Expertise: Research) is a senior leader in health equity with over a decade of experience in research, policy development, and community engagement. She has been instrumental in reducing race-based health inequities both nationally and in Western New York. Kimberly holds a B.A. in History from SUNY University at Buffalo, an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Medaille University and is currently a Doctoral Student in Public Health (DrPH) at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Natasha Manning aka “The Doc” (Expertise: Healthcare) is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She aims to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. She utilizes evidence-based guidelines in addition to clinical experience, personal observation, and clinical judgment through her practice. As a PMHNP, her role is multifaceted, including adjunct educator, and mental health advocate. Music "Walkaway" by Moutaineer from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/walk-away License code: BCAQ6KHPOQGBLMZN

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