This April, we recognize National Reentry Month by spotlighting the work of the Philadelphia Office of Reentry Partnerships and Executive Director Assata Thomas. We discuss the city's commitment to supporting justice-impacted individuals, along with several key events happening throughout the month—from job fairs to expungement clinics.
🗓️ Upcoming Events:

• April 25: Investafest (9AM–3PM) – Energy Hall, 2301 Market St.
• April 25: Know Your Rights Seminar w/ PLSE (11AM–1PM) – 1425 Arch St.
• April 26: Expungement Clinic w/ PLSE & Enon Tabernacle (11AM–2PM) – 2800 W. Cheltenham Ave.
• April 30: Reentry Job Fair w/ Temple University (10AM–2PM) – 1900 N. 13th St., Student Activity Center

🔗 Website: www.phila.gov/reentry
📸 Instagram: @reentryphila_
💼 LinkedIn: Office of Reentry Partnerships
📞 Office: 215-683-3770
As we mark National Second Chance Month, we're highlighting the return of Suave, the Pulitzer Prize-winning podcast from Futuro Studios. Season 2 follows David Luis “Suave” Gonzalez—this time as both subject and co-executive producer—joined by Maria Hinojosa and host Julieta Martinelli. Together, they explore reentry, parole, and the emotional aftermath of incarceration in a deeply personal and powerful way.

 🎧 Listen to Suave:
• Futuro Media: https://futurostudios.org/podcasts/suave/
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suave/id1548544921
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3O1Kh08wk4Owa6DbxX6l6P
• iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-suave-76112132/
🔗 Socials:
• Suave: IG @suavegonzalez215 | TikTok @counttimetv
• Maria Hinojosa: IG/Threads @maria_la_hinojosa | X @maria_hinojosa
• Julieta Martinelli: IG/Threads @jujuxwrites | X @itsjmartinelli

In this episode, we sit down with Louis King, President of OIC of America, to discuss their national impact, the urgency of diversifying the construction trades, and how the Pennsylvania Gas Tax plays a key role in funding opportunity. King breaks down who really benefits from the gas tax, the current diversity challenges within PennDOT’s workforce, and how community engagement can help drive solutions. We also preview OIC’s upcoming Town Hall Series, where community members can get informed and involved:

• April 17 – Southwest Philadelphia
• April 24 – Chester
• May 1 – Norristown (Montgomery County)
• May 15 – North Philadelphia

Follow OIC of America for updates:
🔗 Website: oicofamerica.org
📸 Instagram: @oicofamerica
📘 Facebook: OIC of America
💼 LinkedIn: OIC of America, Inc.

We shine a light on the life-saving work of the Gift of Life Donor Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. We’re joined by Richard Hasz, President & CEO of Gift of Life, and Justin Trotman, a Philly native, husband, father, and kidney transplant waitlist patient. As one of the nation’s oldest and largest organ procurement organizations, Gift of Life continues to lead in organ and tissue donation. Their 28th Annual Donor Dash unites thousands to honor donor heroes, support recipients, and raise awareness for those still waiting. More than 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waitlist—including nearly 5,000 in our region. It takes just a minute to become a registered donor and potentially save a life.
🌐 Learn more and register: Donors1.org
📲 Socials: @donors1 on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey’s 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children’s Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.
We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.
💙 Support kids like Nikos: www.give2csh.org/chw

🌈 In our SpeakOUT segment, we’re joined by Angela Giampolo, a nationally respected attorney, entrepreneur, and LGBTQ+ activist. Founder of Giampolo Law Group (GLG), Angela specializes in LGBTQ+ legal advocacy, estate planning, civil rights, and family law.
We discuss the impact of Trump-era executive orders on the LGBTQIA+ community—and what that means for civil rights, safety, and equality in today’s America. 🔗 Learn more and connect with Angela Giampolo:
• Website: www.giampololaw.com
• Instagram: @yourgaylawyer
• Facebook: Angela Giampolo
• X (formerly Twitter): @phillygaylawyer
• LinkedIn: Angela Giampolo

This week, we meet an extraordinary young hero: 6-year-old Nikos Kaymakcian, New Jersey’s 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion. Diagnosed with the most serious form of Spina Bifida before birth, Nikos has overcome tremendous challenges with the support of his family and care team at Children’s Specialized Hospital. A wheelchair basketball player, NY Giants superfan, and proud big brother, Nikos brings determination and joy to every part of his life.
We speak with Nikos and his mom, Nicole, about their journey and what hope looks like for families of children with complex medical needs.
💙 Support kids like Nikos: www.give2csh.org/chw
🌈 In our SpeakOUT segment, we’re joined by Angela Giampolo, a nationally respected attorney, entrepreneur, and LGBTQ+ activist. Founder of Giampolo Law Group (GLG), Angela specializes in LGBTQ+ legal advocacy, estate planning, civil rights, and family law.
We discuss the impact of Trump-era executive orders on the LGBTQIA+ community—and what that means for civil rights, safety, and equality in today’s America.
 🔗 Learn more and connect with Angela Giampolo:
• Website: www.giampololaw.com
• Instagram: @yourgaylawyer
• Facebook: Angela Giampolo
• X (formerly Twitter): @phillygaylawyer
• LinkedIn: Angela Giampolo
💡 Finally, we close out the episode with six practical tips for everyday Americans navigating the real-world impact of economic policies under the Trump administration—from taxes and healthcare to inflation and labor protections.
These strategies are simple, actionable, and focused on building resilience in uncertain times.  

This week, we bring you two powerful conversations about justice, community, and hope. First, we speak with Reverend Gregory Holston, founder of Just Nation, an organization dedicated to fighting racism at every level of government. Reverend Holston shares details about the upcoming Coalition to Defend Democracy Mass Rally, happening Tuesday, April 22, from 6–8 PM at 10th Memorial Baptist Church (1328 N. 19th Street, Philadelphia).
📘 Follow Rev. Holston: facebook.com/reverendgregory.holston
🌐 Learn more: pennpolicy.org  

Then, we shine a light on the life-saving work of the Gift of Life Donor Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. We’re joined by Richard Hasz, President & CEO of Gift of Life, and Justin Trotman, a Philly native, husband, father, and kidney transplant waitlist patient. As one of the nation’s oldest and largest organ procurement organizations, Gift of Life continues to lead in organ and tissue donation. Their 28th Annual Donor Dash unites thousands to honor donor heroes, support recipients, and raise awareness for those still waiting. More than 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waitlist—including nearly 5,000 in our region. It takes just a minute to become a registered donor and potentially save a life.
🌐 Learn more and register: Donors1.org
📲 Socials: @donors1 on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

This week marks Black Maternal Health Week, a time to raise awareness about the alarming disparities in care experienced by Black mothers and babies. In this episode, we hear from Jenne Johns, founder of Once Upon a Preemie, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black families navigating the challenges of premature birth. Jenne recently testified before Philadelphia City Council to advocate for increased awareness, education, and culturally responsive support for families impacted by preterm birth. Learn more about her powerful mission and the resources available through her organization:
🌐 www.onceuponapreemie.org
📸 Instagram: @onceapreemie
📘 Facebook: @onceuponapreemie
💼 LinkedIn: once-upon-a-preemie-academy #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #OnceUponAPreemie #PrematurityAwareness #EquityInCare #Podcast

Thinking about buying a pre-owned car? It can be a smart financial move—but only if you know what to look for. I’m joined by Joshua Blum of Joshua Motors to share expert advice on how to shop smart. From spotting red flags to avoiding common mistakes, Joshua breaks down what makes a reliable used car and how to ensure you're making a sound investment.
Learn more at jmccauto.com  

Books, big ideas, and bold voices—we're joined by Daniel Blank, Managing Director of Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, to talk about their dynamic spring Author Events Series. This season features guests like Maria Shriver, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and a highly anticipated conversation with Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. With accessibility in mind, the series now offers a new $5 ticketing model. Daniel shares what’s driving this momentum and why it’s become one of the most beloved cultural programs in the city.
Visit freelibraryfoundation.org for the full schedule.
Follow them on Instagram & Facebook: @freelibraryfdn    

What’s the future of cancer research—and other critical breakthroughs in medicine?
I speak with Dr. Ron Collman, a critical care physician and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, who participated in the Stand Up for Science rally at Philadelphia City Hall—not in his professional capacity, but as a concerned citizen. He shares why restoring federal funding for scientific research is vital to public health, medical progress, and the future of lifesaving innovation. Learn more at standupforscience2025.org
Join the conversation on social media using #StandUpForScience