Real Talk Memphis with Chip Washington

Episode Notes Chris Conlee is the Co-founder and Sr. Pastor of One City Church. In a country that seems more divided than together, healing is the word that comes to mind. He tells me about creating the Race for Reconciliation and why he thinks our city really needs a revival. Finally, our population is different and diverse but for many from different countries, adapting to a new way and language can be difficult. Devin Schniepp is the executive director of Multinational Memphis. Their mission is to show kindness to limited English speaking families living in Memphis to help them feel excepted, achieve academic success, understand our cultures and to feel the love of God. She explains why this is so gratifying. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green. She is part of an active group of elected officials who are fighting for change. I ask her about the accountability of MATA and what she would like to see change with the new board, also the gun control referendums overwhelming passing and what’s next. West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon is making big moves in his city and joins me to discuss how he got the very popular Buc-ee’s franchise to open a new location there, as well as a new park project that is very family friendly. Pam Ware spent 20 years in the death industry. She is now bringing a unique perspective to helping youth and educators resolve conflicts, reduce behavioral issues, and unlock their full potential for lasting positive change. She explains what we as a community needs to do to encourage and motivate our youth from taking a wrong path. That and more, Monday both on air and online on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes This week's guests include Deborah Clubb, Executive director, Memphis Area Women's Council. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. She joins me to talk about the latest trends in this troubling epidemic and what resources are available. Next, the upcoming election is probably the most important in our lifetime. Not only nationally, but locally with three gun control referendums. TN Democratic Party Chair Hendrell Remus joins me to break down the numbers as well as what else is at stake. Finally, MATA has a newly named board to bring much needed oversight to the organization. New member Cynthia Bailey joins me to talk about the importance of understanding the needs of the bus rider as she is one herself. That and more on air and online Monday on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Shelby County Assessor of Property Melvin Burgess. He says that if you own property in Shelby County, your taxes could be going up substantially because of rising property values. His office will host public meetings, but he will join me to explain what to expect. We are all aware that there is a major election soon, and there are issues related to gun control that are very important to our city and citizens. City Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton joins to talk about the importance of voting and what the passage of gun control referendums could mean for the safety of our city. Finally, there is a lot of pride in our city, especially for our many historic areas. One of those areas will feature a new play coming to the Orpheum Thestre entitled, “We All We Got: A Binghamton Play”. I speak with the writer Ann Perry Wallace and Santyria Johnson from the Orpheum to talk about this exciting project. This and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, the Tunein app, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Working. As we watched the conclusion to the Tyre Nichols Federal criminal case, many of us were left a bit confused as to why the three former officers involved were found guilty and convicted of a single charge, witness tampering. Working explains why people might be disappointed and what could happen in the state trial. Next, Pastor Hosea Houston understands the power of giving back to the community of Northaven by teaching others to be self sufficient by learning how to farm the land. Land which has been in his family more than 50 years. He says, to live is to learn, he explains. Finally, owning a home is the dream for many but what about low income housing for persons with disabilities and older adults? Earle Schwarz is the executive director of Intunity Homes which is providing opportunities for those who never thought they would get one. That and more Monday, 6-7 pm on air and online on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include; Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner. His administration is going through a few challenges recently such as much needed repairs to the jail. Initial estimates for emergency repairs are at about $17 million. I also ask about the recent school safety threats and the arrest of a 15 year old in connection to them. Next, I speak with two brothers who understand the streets better than most. Meet Brandon and Bryan Mathis. They were the victims of abuse from their father, gang members and leaders and quite honestly lucky to be alive. They are now helping to save our youth and lives thru the SWITCH program and Memphis Allies. They tell me how. Finally, prostate cancer claims thousands of lives a year an$ is the number two killer of men in this country. Dr. Samuel Riney, Medical Oncologist and interim Medical Director, Methodist Cancer Institute joins me share the importance of getting tested and possibly saving your life. That and more Monday both on air and online from 6-7 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also, WYXR.org, the Tunein app, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Memphis City Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton. She is quickly distinguishing herself as someone who is very committed to the citizens she serves. I ask her about a couple of recent issues; filing a lawsuit against the Shelby County Election Commission denying the citizens a chance to vote on a gun control referendum. Also, the latest on the state of MATA and a discrimination lawsuit filed by Black firefighters regarding a promotion process. Next, we all go through certain experiences, both challenging and difficult, it’s called life. Paula Mays is one such person who has written a book about her challenges and triumphs called, “God Got This.” It’s a deeply personal narrative she shares to help build the Kingdom of God during dark times with love and encouragement. Finally, Robdarius Brown is a very talented young man on a mission. He is a musician and Memphis native whose stage name is RobenX. He was born Albino, no skin color and was the subject of bullying. These days, he has taken his platform as a music artist, model and anti-bullying advocate and albinism advocate to a much greater audience. He explains how he is doing that both on air and online Monday live, 6-7 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also theWYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include City Council Chairman JB Smiley. There has been a lot of conversation of late regarding the state house leadership threatening our city by withholding tax revenues if we put a gun control initiative up for a vote. The Council has now filed a lawsuit against the local Election Commission and he tells me why it was necessary. Next, Lifeline to Success helps former inmates navigate life after incarceration. Recently, they held a ceremony to celebrate the opening of a new halfway house in Frayser. Co-founder and program director Vinessa Brown joins me to talk about what this and a grant award from Congressman Steve Cohen means and how it can help even more individuals stay on the right track. The Shelby County District Connector Program is an innovative initiative designed to strengthen community ties, connect residents to vital resources, and foster collaboration across all 13 Shelby County Commission districts. Program manager Ariell Gipson Martin joins me to explain how it works and how important connectivity can be to bring us all together. That and more on air and online, 6 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also available on the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.It’s time to talk!Thanks!

Episode Notes We talk about a variety of subjects; Paul Martin, VP of Health & Wellness for Trezevant will talk about the importance of both health and wellness and especially the physical, social and emotional well-being of our seniors. Next, so many are coping with family members who have either Dementia or Alzheimer’s. These diseases can cause such emotional heartbreak for everyone involved and many wonder how to navigate thru it. Christian Miller from Midsouth aging along with Marilyn Rucker join me to talk about an upcoming seminar about this delicate issue and answer the questions you may have in order to gain a better understanding. Finally, it’s coming….meaning the celebration of our fair city called 901 Day. This is the day we celebrate the city’s culture, community and creativity. Toni Holman-Turner from the City and dancer Ladia Yates drop by to tell us what to expect from the 2024 version as they bring on the party! That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Bacarra Mauldin, Interim CEO of MATA Transit. As many of you know, the organization is facing some steep financial challenges and difficulties to the tune of a $60 million dollar debt. She talks to me about some of the drastic changes they are looking at to right the ship. Natalie McKinney is a newly elected MSCS board member who is hitting the ground running as the new school year gets underway. She tells me what she sees as the biggest challenges the district faces and lays out her priorities. Lastly, recently, there was a big announcement in the historic Orange Mound community. The City of Memphis along with United Housing and My cup of tea announced a new building project that will bring more affordable housing for so many residents with the dream of home ownership. United Housing Exec. Dir. Amy Schaftlein joins me in studio to discuss this promising project which could be the beginning of great things to come. That and more Monday at 6 pm both on air and online on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also streaming live on WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include newly elected MSCS Board member Tamarques Porter. He is one of four new members responsible for helping guide our superintendent to best help our students to succeed. He tells me why he decided to run and what his priorities will be moving forward. If many of you are familiar with the STEM program you know that science and technology is going to guide us into the future. The long planned building project for the program at Whitehaven High has been put on hold for financial reasons. Education advocate Daryl Lewis joins me to discuss the issue and says that a prior commitment made by the district should be kept for the sake of the students. Finally, patient advocacy as regards to important medical issues and decisions is absolutely essential as we all get older. Dr. LaTonya Washington, chief medical officer for Methodist North hospital joins me to talk about its importance for both patients and caregivers. Also, about a special panel presentation surrounding National patient advocacy day. That and more on air and online Monday, 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Natalie McKinney, newly elected MSCS board member for District 2. She defeated incumbent and board chair Althea Greene. Now that she is in the seat, she tells me why she choose to run, what she sees as the major issues of concern and how she’s plans to help address them. Now that we are upon the beginning of another school year, how do you get your children mentally ready for a return to a regular routine. Counselor Meghan Paige gives parents important pointers on how getting them off to a good start could spell a successful school year. Finally, life can be difficult enough for most, but for those who have faced incarceration the road back can be almost impossible to navigate. Shelby County Director of Reentry DeAndre Brown joins me to talk about a new transitional housing project for non violent offenders that will give them a real shot of a second chance to make a difference in their lives. That and more both on air and online Monday 6-7 pm, WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes Guests include TN. State Senator Raumesh Akbari. As a delegate to the Democratic Party, and who some consider a rising star, what is her take on the change at the top of the ticket and can Kamala Harris make history twice. Also, what she thinks about the state Republican Party plan to take over Shelby County. Next, mental health issues are something that families through the generations have dealt with privately in the past but today it might starting to change a bit. Mental health professional Brandy Flynn joins me to talk about this sensitive issue and why it’s important to bring it out of the shadows and into the light. Next, there isn’t a person alive that hasn’t had to deal with an emotional loss of some kind. The question is the ‘how’ do we deal with loss? Counselor and Therapist Alicia Denton joins the conversation to discuss her new book and a special series of conversations and sessions thru the month of August in cooperation with a local area church in the hopes of making uncomfortable conversations a bit more comfortable. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6-7 pm on WYXR radio 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes Guests include Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. He joins me live in studio to talk about his ouster attempt from Sen. Brent Taylor and House Speaker Cameron Sexton. Also, his latest attempt at bail reform. State Rep. Karen Camper represents many areas including the Whitehaven community. It was scheduled for the second part of their million dollar redevelopment effort, but somehow the money earmarked for it has disappeared. She gives us an update on what she has found out. Finally, the Hope House mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by HIV and poverty. Yolanda Fant joins me to talk about a huge grant award and how it will help their mission. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live and wherever you get your podcasts .Its time to talk!

Episode Notes The new President of LeMoyne Owen College Christopher B. Davis. He joins me to talk about his journey, what makes the school so special and how he plans to lead it moving forward. Next, Dementia is an illness that affects thousands of people every year but the care is both expensive and exhausting. Meritan, Inc, a Memphis health care support provider has been selected for a new program to support care for those with dementia. Their President/CEO Melanie Keller joins me to explain how it works. Lastly, Memphis Area Legal Services is the primary provider of civil legal representation to low-income families in western TN and surrounding areas. They have a new CEO, Atty Nicole Grida, and she joins me to share the organizations continued vision. That and more Monday both on air and online, 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk!

Episode Notes Guests include Shelby County Election Commissioner Linda Phillips. With a big election just around the corner, it's time we got an update on what you can expect to see. New machines are also on the ballot and she explains everything you need to know to be an informed voter. Next, the recent revelation that MPD Asst. Chief Shawn Jones is still a Georgia resident while working here has people starting to talk. One in particular, former officer and MPA president Mike Williams joins me to share his thoughts on the situation and it's effects on the department. Finally, things have been relatively quiet on the medical front of late but with Covid numbers rising a bit and the Avian flu making noise it's time for a check up with Dr. Steve Threlkeld. That and more on air and online Monday, 6 pm on WYXR. 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Dr. Michelle Taylor, Director, Shelby County Health department. She joins me to discuss a few top of mind issues like the high incidence of HIV in our community and that gun violence is now a public health emergency. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office has its own set of challenges, one in particular, having enough officers to handle law enforcement efforts in the jail and on the streets. Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner joins me to talk about it. The new superintendent of education, Dr. Marie Feagins has set a challenging course and the MSCS school board is in charge of overseeing the process. Outgoing member Kevin Woods joins me to share his thoughts and hopes for the future. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It's time to talk!

Episode Notes On the next and all new Real Talk Memphis my guests include; Chandell Ryan, President/CEO of the Downtown Memphis Commission. She makes her first visit to the show to talk about her new position and how if anything she did as the former COO for the City of Memphis helped her. Also, now that we are in the midst of a busy tourist season how she is positioning her group moving forward. Van Turner is a familiar face to many in our city and these days he is still helping others. The Town of Mason is preparing to welcome Blue Oval City, but they also want to be an inclusive partner. Van explains how a community coalition wants a Community Benefits Agreement with Ford that will benefit everyone. Lastly, the number of juvenile shooting victims continues to grow and is putting a great strain on the area hospitals. Dr. Nick Watkins is an ER specialist at Le Bonheur. He tells me what it's like to be on the front lines of an overwhelmed emergency room. That and more on air and online Monday from 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Sarah Houston, aka the ‘water warrior’. With all the excitement and fuss about the new xAI supercomputer project, many people wonder what it all means and how it will affect certain things like our water. Sarah joins me to share the pros or cons. Next, gun violence can lead to tragic consequences. Bennie Cobb is a former deputy sheriff and gun safety expert. He tells us about an upcoming event that you might be interested in knowing more about. Geoff Calkins is an award winning sports columnist and radio host, in other words a man with opinions. He joins me to talk about what’s on his mind including paying now college players and his memories of the late Jerry West. That and more on air and online Monday 6-7 pm on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It’s time to talk!