Loraine Ballard Morrill

Loraine Ballard Morrill

Listen to Loraine on Insight on Sundays 6-7am + keep up on her latest news updates here!Full Bio

Whats Going On: Overbrook Environmental Education Center, Roye Okupe Creator of Iyanu, WorkReady Summer Youth Employment Program

Insight Pt. 2: Overbrook Environmental Education Center, Roye Okupe Creator of Iyanu, WorkReady Summer Youth Employment Program

Today we’re joined by Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director, and Mitchell Bormack, Project Coordinator at the Overbrook Environmental Education Center. They’re leading Trash Talkin’ — a new community conversation series addressing Philly’s illegal dumping crisis. Backed by the William Penn Foundation and developed with the City’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, SEAMAAC, and the Sanitation Department, the project centers resident voices to uncover the root causes of waste and environmental injustice.
🌐 Learn more: overbrookcenter.org
📱 Instagram & X: @OverbrookEEC
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/OverbrookEducation
💼 LinkedIn: Overbrook Environmental Education Center

Next, I speak with Roye Okupe — award-winning creator of Iyanu, the breakout animated series rooted in Nigerian mythology and Yoruba culture. Premiering on Cartoon Network and streaming on Max, Iyanu follows a teenage orphan with divine powers on a mission to save her homeland. The hit show is now #1 with kids (2–12), renewed for Season 2, greenlit for two films, and expanding globally via Showmax and ITVX. Roye is also founder of YouNeek Studios, championing authentic African superhero stories. 🎥 Trailer: bit.ly/IyanuTrailer
🌐 Website: youneekstudios.com
📱 Instagram & X: @youneekstudios | @royeokupe
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/youneekstudios

Finally, we highlight the 2025 WorkReady Summer Youth Employment Program from the Philadelphia Youth Network. Each year, teens and young adults (ages 14–21) gain real-world job experience, build skills, and get paid. At iHeartMedia Philadelphia, we’re proud to host interns exploring the world of radio and podcasting. 🌐 Learn more: pyninc.org/workready
📱 Instagram: @pyninc
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/PhiladelphiaYouthNetwork
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-youth-network

Insight Pt. 1: Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati with VLS Journeys

Guest Host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati sits down with former Philadelphia City Councilmember Blondell Reynolds Brown, author of the powerful memoir Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels. In this candid and inspiring conversation, Blondell shares what it takes to navigate the bruising arena of big-city politics as a Black woman leader, and how she carved out a legacy of public service, resilience, and purpose.
📖 Learn more about the book and upcoming events at: www.moxiebrb.com
📱 Follow Blondell Reynolds Brown:
Instagram & X: @blondellreynoldsbrown
Facebook: facebook.com/BlondellReynoldsB Plus, in a fun role reversal, Vanesse becomes the guest in her own monthly feature, “What Is Philadelphia Reading?” — sharing what’s on her bookshelf and what’s inspiring readers across the city.

What's Going On: Ice Skating for Peace, The Power of Jury Duty, Sacred Work Around Death, Grief & Healing

🕊️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace
Alim Howell is a passionate activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, committed to building safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to share details about the upcoming 6th Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown. Sponsored by the Haverford Township Police Department, this free community event offers skating, food, and drinks—all in the spirit of unity, peace, and positive engagement.
🌐 Website: raceforpeace.org
📲 Instagram, Facebook & X: @RFPCSocialMedia

⚖️ Lauren Cristella & Patrick Martin | The Power of Jury Duty
We’re joined by Lauren Cristella, President & CEO of the Committee of Seventy, and Patrick Martin, Philadelphia Jury Commissioner, to highlight the critical civic responsibility of jury service. From ensuring justice to reflecting the diversity of our communities, jury duty is one of the most direct ways citizens can shape the legal system. Lauren and Patrick are working together to educate and empower Philadelphians to take their place in the courtroom and uphold democracy.
🌐 Learn more: https://seventy.org/jury-service-initiative

🕯️ Candi Wuhrman | Sacred Work Around Death, Grief & Healing
Death is one of society’s last taboos—but what if talking about it could help us live more fully? We’re joined by Candi Wuhrman—a Board-Certified Clinical Chaplain, Death Doula, Hospice Chaplain, and Grief Transformation Coach—who brings decades of experience guiding individuals through end-of-life, loss, and healing. Candi helps people transform grief into growth by creating safe spaces for emotional balance, core healing, and sacred conversation.
🌐 Website: www.sacredworkwithcandi.com
🎁 Free Gift for Listeners: bit.ly/FreeGiftFromChaplainCandi
📲 Social Media:
 

Insight Pt. 2: Ice Skating for Peace, Carole Boston Weatherford Honored, Fountain Fund Philadelphia, The Power of Jury Duty

🎙️ Alim Howell | Ice Skating for Peace
Alim Howell is an activist and advocate with the Race for Peace Committee, dedicated to fostering safer communities and stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement. He joins us to preview the 6th annual Ice Skating for Peace event—happening Friday, July 11th from 4:15 to 6:15 PM at the Skatium in Havertown. Sponsored by the Haverford Township Police Department, this free event features open skating, food, and drinks—all in the spirit of peace and unity.
🔗 raceforpeace.org
📲 Instagram, Facebook & X: @RFPCSocialMedia

📚 Carole Boston Weatherford | Children’s Literature Legacy Award
Carole Boston Weatherford is an acclaimed poet and author of over 50 children’s books, many centered on African American history and culture. Her work has earned numerous honors, including the 2022 Coretta Scott King Author Award for Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre and the 2024 Honor for How Do You Spell Unfair? This weekend, she’ll be honored with the Children’s Literature Legacy Award at the ALA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, as part of the Newbery-Caldecott-Legacy Banquet—featuring speakers like Grace Lin and George Takei.
🌐 Learn more at: https://info.libraryjournal.com/ala-2025

💸 Michael Butler | Fountain Fund Philadelphia
We’re spotlighting second chances and economic justice with Michael Butler, Director of the Fountain Fund Philadelphia. Backed by the GreenLight Fund, the organization has just surpassed a $1 million milestone in zero-interest loans—directly supporting Philadelphians impacted by incarceration. These funds empower individuals to pursue housing, education, transportation, and entrepreneurship, creating real pathways to stability and freedom.
🌐 fountainfund.org
📲 Facebook & Instagram: @TheFountainFundPhiladelphia | X: @TFFPhilly

  ⚖️ Lauren Cristella & Patrick Martin | The Power of Jury Duty
We’re joined by Lauren Cristella, President & CEO of the Committee of Seventy, and Patrick Martin, Philadelphia Jury Commissioner, to discuss the often-overlooked civic responsibility of jury service. From protecting constitutional rights to ensuring diverse representation in the courtroom, their mission is to strengthen our democracy through informed and engaged jurors.
 Learn how you can get involved and why your service matters.
🌐 Learn more: https://seventy.org/jury-service-initiative

Insight Pt. 1: "The Legendary Marion Williams"

I’m  joined by Robin Williams Sr., CEO of Ronaj Movie Productions, and Karen Moore, Administrative Executive. We’re talking about their powerful new documentary, "The Legendary Marion Williams"—a heartfelt tribute to one of gospel music’s greatest voices. This film is more than just a biography—it’s a musical and cinematic journey that honors a legacy. From its world premiere at Pavilion Afrique during the Cannes Film Festival to its current success streaming on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and Pluto TV, the film is reaching audiences around the globe. We’ll also discuss the power of multimedia storytelling in preserving Black cultural legacies, and highlight upcoming events in Philadelphia where their work will be showcased.
Stay connected with them at ronajmovieproductions.com
Follow on social media:
📸 Instagram: @thepoetiksol
📘 Facebook: Robin Williams Sr.
💼 LinkedIn: Robin Williams Sr. on LinkedIn

What's Going On: Special Pride Month Edition of the Feature SpeakOUT w/ Angela Giampolo

Welcome to SpeakOUT, a monthly segment inside What’s Going On where we explore the legal, political, and cultural forces shaping the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm proud to co-host this conversation with Angela Giampolo, founder of Giampolo Law Group and the voice behind Philly Gay Lawyer. Together, we break down the headlines — from Supreme Court rulings and executive orders to grassroots resistance and community advocacy. Whether it’s gender-affirming care, Title IX, or anti-drag legislation, Angela brings the legal clarity and action steps you need to stay informed and empowered.
 💼 Learn more: www.giampololaw.com
📲 Follow Angela Giampolo:
🛑 If you or someone you know is in crisis, you are not alone.
Here are LGBTQ+ affirming mental health and suicide prevention resources:
  • Trevor Project Lifeline (for LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386
    🌐 thetrevorproject.org
    Text “START” to 678-678 or use their online chat.
  • Trans Lifeline (for trans people, by trans people): 1-877-565-8860
    🌐 translifeline.org
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988, then press 3 for LGBTQ+ support (this feature no longer available.
    🌐 988lifeline.org
Please reach out — there is hope, and there is help. 🏳️‍🌈💙

Insight Pt. 2: Impact of Trump Policies on Civil Rights w/Civil Rights Lawyer Keir Bradford-Grey

We’re joined by Keir Bradford‑Grey, one of the nation’s leading civil rights attorneys and a partner at Marrone Law. The former Chief Defender of the Defender Association of Philadelphia, Keir has spent her career fighting for justice and equity. In this powerful conversation, we explore the real‑world impact of Trump‑era policies and recent Supreme Court rulings on civil rights — from voting and policing to protest and free speech. What’s at stake, and how can we fight back? Keir breaks it all down.
Connect with Keir:
• Twitter: @KeirBGLaw
• LinkedIn: Keir Bradford‑Grey

Resources::
• ACLU Pennsylvania
• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

Insight Pt. 1: On Location at the 5th Annual Overbrook Night Market

Despite a little rain, the Overbrook Night Market was back in full swing — celebrating five years of food, music, and community vibes! Held at 63rd & Lancaster Avenue, the event brought out hundreds of neighbors for an unforgettable night of live performances, family fun, and 30+ amazing food vendors. Presented by State Representative Morgan Cephas and Overbrook West Neighbors, the Night Market continues to uplift West Philly with local flavor and hometown pride.
 📲 Follow the hosts:

What's Going On: NRG’s 10th Annual Media Charity Flag Football Game, Deputy Sheriff Recruitment Drive, The Free Library’s Future

🎙️ NRG’s 10th Annual Media Charity Flag Football Game
We kick things off with an on-site interview featuring Dan McCunney, Senior Manager of Communications at NRG, during their 10th Annual Media Charity Flag Football Game. The event supports some of the region’s most impactful nonprofits and highlights how NRG customers can give back through their utility bills or receive rewards like airline miles.
🔗 Learn more or choose to give at: www.picknrg.com/choose-to-give
🎙️ Sheriff Rochelle Bilal – Deputy Sheriff Recruitment Drive
We’re joined by Sheriff Rochelle Bilal, the first African American woman elected Sheriff in Philadelphia. She leads with a focus on transparency, reform, and building stronger community relationships. Sheriff Bilal discusses the Second Deputy Sheriff Recruitment Drive, in partnership with PA Representatives Anthony Bellmon, Darisha Parker, and Senator Sharif Street—an initiative to recruit diverse and qualified candidates to serve the city with integrity. 🗓 Event Details:
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Sturgis Playground, 200 W 65th Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19126
🔗 More Info: www.phillysheriff.com
📱 Follow the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office:

🎙️ Kelly Richards & Monique Moore Pryor – The Free Library’s Future
Our final guests are Kelly Richards, President & Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia, and Monique Moore Pryor, President of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. They share how the Free Library is evolving as a civic hub—through inclusive programs like the Summer of Wonder, a citywide Strategic Planning Process, upcoming town halls, and surveys designed to engage every Philadelphia neighborhood in shaping the future of the library.
🔗 Get Involved: