Shows
WURD RadioDr. Walter P. Lomax Jr.'s Freedom Journey | WURD RadioBefore WURD Radio gave Philadelphia a Black-owned voice, Dr. Walter P. Lomax, Jr., was building something just as radical: culturally competent, community-centered healthcare—under one roof, in the neighborhoods that needed it most.
That same belief—that Black people deserve institutions they own and control—led to Dr. Lomax’s founding of WURD Radio.
This is his Freedom Journey as told by WURD Radio President and CEO Sara M. Lomax.
#freedomjourneys #America250 #Philadelphia250 #WURDRadio #blackmedia
2026-01-0803 min
WURD RadioNoah Felder - 1.8.26 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesNoah Felder joins the show. He is the owner of Delhi St Bakery. Noah talks shop with Kiea Hutty of Bank of America and Iola Harper of the Women’s Opportunities Resource Center, on this edition of "WURD on Business"
2026-01-0815 min
The Week on WURDPublic Safety Beyond Policing, SNAP Cuts, and Political Power in PhillyJeff Jones, a national award–winning organizer and social impact strategist from Germantown, joined Evening WURDs to talk about reimagining public safety in Philadelphia beyond traditional policing. Drawing on more than two decades of grassroots work, he discussed community-centered approaches rooted in education, sustainability, and economic opportunity, arguing that long-term safety comes from investment rather than punishment.Zoe Reid, a reporter for WHYY, joined Wake Up With WURD to explain upcoming federal changes to SNAP benefits that could affect roughly 140,000 Pennsylvanians, including tens of thousands of Philadelphians. She walked through new work requirements, how exemptions function, and wh...
2026-01-0744 min
WURD RadioSara Lomax | Evening WURDs - 12.31.25For the final Evening WURDs with Dr. Peterson, President and CEO of WURD radio joins Dr. Peterson to reflect on 2025 and discuss the rollout of WURD's Freedom Journeys launching tomorrow — Thursday, January 1st.
2026-01-0116 minThe Week on WURDThe Year on WURDThe Year on WURD is a one-hour recap of the conversations that shaped 2025 — featuring powerful interviews, timely analysis, and moments that helped listeners make sense of a challenging year.From national politics and democracy to local accountability, justice, business, culture, and community, this special brings together voices from across WURD Radio’s programming. These are the conversations that informed, challenged, and grounded us — and reminded us why independent Black media matters.If you want to go deeper, you can listen to the full, unedited interviews featured in this special at wurdradio.com/yearinreview.If aft...
2025-12-2659 minWURD RadioAntonio Valdés 12.19.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesIn continuation of WURD's "Philly Gives" series, Antonio "Tony" Valdés joins the show. He is Chief Executive Officer of the Children's Crisis Treatment Center, (CCTC). Children’s Crisis Treatment Center, serves the emotional needs of children and families beginning in early childhood, meeting children where they are and helping them reach their full potential regardless of their challenges.
2025-12-2209 minThe Week on WURDParamount vs. Netflix, Prison Justice, and the AI Divide Shaping Black FuturesFilm critic Tim Gordon joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to unpack the shifting media landscape driven by a high-stakes bidding war between Paramount and Netflix over Warner Bros. Discovery. Gordon examined how growing media consolidation increases political influence, limits creative independence, and ultimately harms consumers and media integrity.Leigh Owens, education and advocacy director at the Pennsylvania Prison Society, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to address the humanitarian consequences of mass incarceration. Owens discussed the aging prison population, referenced the case of Mumia Abu-Jamal, and underscored how incarceration separates...
2025-12-181h 07The Week on WURDNational Security Blind Spots, Diagnosing Whiteness, and a $5M Investment in Community MediaDr. Nola Haynes, national security and foreign policy expert, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to unpack several unfolding global crises. She raised concerns about the scarcity of information surrounding the shooting of two National Guard soldiers, examined the potential illegality of recent Venezuelan boat strikes, and assessed why peace negotiations in Ukraine continue to fail. Haynes urged closer scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy decisions that increasingly affect domestic safety and global stability.Author Dante King joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to explore the arguments in his new book, Diagnosing Whiteness & Anti-Blackness. King...
2025-12-101h 08WURD RadioDamon Tyner - 12.8.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesAttorney Damon Tyner is a former Atlantic County Prosecutor and former Superior Court Judge. He is currently Managing Member of The Law Offices of Damon G. Tyner, LLC, an Atlantic County based law practice. Damon takes a fresh look at the Supreme Court ruling on Texas maps that could mean the loss of Black districts.
2025-12-0913 min
WURD RadioEvyonna Stevenson | The Midday Break Room w/ Candace Johnson - 12.8.25Evyonna Stevenson is the founder and creator of The Crochet Star. She is a fiber artist who creates one-of-a-kind handmade crochet pieces that bring warmth, color, and joy into everyday life. Her work includes items for the home and for the entire family—moms, dads, kids, and even pets. The Crochet Star will be featured as a vendor in WURD’s Empowerment Experience.
Evyonna joins the show to further discuss her business, The Crochet Star, and her thoughts on her business being featured as a vendor in WURD’s upcoming Empowerment Experience.
2025-12-0914 minWURD RadioAlana Bell-Benjamin | The Midday Break Room w/ Candace Johnson - 12.8.25Alana Bell-Benjamin is the owner and founder of ‘Bell Naturals’, a skin care company whose mission is to help individuals find the ideal face kit to having a body oil that brightens their skin. Bell Naturals will be featured as a vendor in WURD’s upcoming Empowerment Experience.
Alana joins the show to further talk about her business, and her thoughts on her business being featured in WURD’s upcoming Empowerment Experience.
2025-12-0817 minWURD RadioKevin Bethel - 12.4.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesPhiladelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel joins the show. He talks to us about the decrease in homicide numbers for the city, and what he feels contributed to the decline.
2025-12-0816 min
WURD RadioSara Lomax and Mitra Kalita - Evening WURDs 12.4.25Sara Lomax is the President and CEO of WURD Radio, and Co-Founder of URL Media. Mitra Kalita is a Journalist, and the CEO & Co-Founder of URL Media.
They joined Dr. Peterson to discuss URL Media securing a $5 Million Knight Foundation grant to build unprecedented sustainable infrastructure for community media.
2025-12-0533 minWURD RadioErnest Owens - Evening WURDs 12.4.25Ernest Owens is the President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists, author of the book “The Case For Cancel Culture”, and the host of WURD Radio’s “On The Record with Ernest Owens". He joined Dr. Peterson to discuss a proposed legislation from Philadelphia City Councilmembers, and DEI.
2025-12-0532 minWURD RadioPatricia King - 12.3.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesPatricia King joins the show. She is Manger of community engagement for PECO. Dec 4 is LIHEAP Day at PECO. Customer can get signed up on the spot for LIHEAP. Patricia will discuss the overall event, eligibility for LIHEAP and other available energy assistance programs.
2025-12-0405 minThe Week on WURDTracking Police Violence, Defending Immigrant Rights, and Securing Black FuturesDr. Terence Keel, UCLA professor of Human Biology and Society and author of The Coroner’s Silence: Death Records and the Hidden Victims of Police Violence, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to examine the country’s broken system for tracking deaths in police custody. He outlined how coroners and medical examiners often obscure or misclassify police-involved deaths — a crisis that hides the true scale of state violence and affects Black, Latino, Indigenous, and poor white communities nationwide.Minority Leader Kendra Brooks, Philadelphia City Councilmember At-Large, joined ecoWURD Magazine with P.O.C. to address...
2025-12-031h 08WURD RadioDr. Nola Haynes - 12.3.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesNational security expert Dr. Nola Haynes joins the show. She talks to us about the tensions with Venezuela, and the attack that led to the death of a member of the National Guard in Washington D.C
2025-12-0317 minWURD RadioDr. Dave Oxman - Evening WURDs 12.2.25As a medical student and resident at Temple University, Dave Oxman got top-flight medical training and a master class in how injustice and inequality affect people’s health. Dr. Oxman has done in-depth training in infectious diseases, critical care and medical ethics. His writings tackle issues such as gun violence, the opioid epidemic, and our broken health insurance system.
He joined Dr. Peterson for this week's Citizen WURD segment to discuss a current National Health Plan article he wrote for the Philadelphia Citizen — “Could A National Health Plan Finally Be Good Politics”, let’s welcome to “Evening WURDs”.
Article link: https://thephi...
2025-12-0316 minWURD RadioMichael Coard - 12.1.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesMichael Coard is a WURD Radio host, lawyer, columnist, and the angriest Black man in America. He joins us to talk about an ATAC meeting on the President’s House exhibit.
2025-12-0213 minWURD RadioTerence Keel - 11.26.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesTerence Keel joins the show. He is Professor of Human Biology & Society UCLA. He’s the author of the new book, "The Coroner’s Silence: Death Records and the Hidden Victims of Police Violence". Keel’s advocacy for families and loved ones of those who pass in police custody to be involved in death determinations, and uncovers how often biases impact coroner’s findings.
2025-11-2614 minWURD RadioMarsha Levick - 11.25.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesMarsha Levick joins the show. She is co-founder and Chief Legal Officer of Juvenile Law Center. Marsha talks to us about her decision to step down Dec 31st
2025-11-2614 minWURD RadioLiz Pancotti & Nicolas O'Rourke - 11.25.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesLiz Pancotti, Managing Director of Policy & Advocacy at Groundwork Collaborative. and Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke join the show. As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week by carving turkey and watching football, many will face sticker shock at the grocery store as inflation and high prices persist. A new report from Groundwork Collaborative shows that Thanksgiving staples are more expensive this holiday season, leading many Americans to pull back on their festivities.
2025-11-2615 minWURD RadioCharlie Tombasco - 11.25.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesCharlie Tombasco joins the show. He is the Technical Operations Manager at Comcast. The holidays are here—and your family and guests expect your house to be ready! From gaming consoles and smart devices to streaming movie marathons and video calls, homes are about to experience a surge in connected activity. Nearly 57% of Black Friday and Cyber Monday spending is expected to go toward electronics, which means more devices competing for bandwidth.
2025-11-2607 minWURD RadioAnton Moore - 11.25.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesAnton Moore joins the show. He is the newly appointed director of public engagement and neighborhood affairs for the City of Philadelphia. Anton talks to us about his non-profit, "Unity in the Community" and how that work will translate to his new role for the City.
2025-11-2608 minWURD RadioSandy Brown | Turkey Giveaway Live Event - 11.24.25Tiffany Bacon is joined by Sandy Brown, Executive Vice President Brown’s Super Stores and longtime supporter of WURD Radio.
2025-11-2419 minWURD RadioDr. Timothy Golden - 11.24.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDr. Timothy Golden is a visiting Professor of Philosophy at Whitman College. For 20 years, he was a criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia and in the federal courts. Tim talks to us about the Supreme Court, who met privately to discuss President Donald Trump’s birthright citizenship order, which declares that children born to parents who are in the U.S. illegally or temporarily are not American citizens.
2025-11-2419 minWURD RadioKatie Berge - 11.24.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesKatie Berge joins the show. She is Senior Director of Federal Affairs at Blood Cancer United. This year, 429,551 people in Pennsylvania received a critical tax credit that helped lower their monthly premium payments to make quality, comprehensive health insurance coverage more affordable. But this tax credit is set to expire at the end of 2025, meaning fewer Pennsylvanians would be able to afford coverage at all, including children and families, people with chronic conditions, early retirees, small business owners and hourly workers.
2025-11-2409 minWURD RadioBMEC Panel - WUWW 11.21.25Wake Up With WURD covers the Black Men in Education Convening moderated by Rachel Skerritt discussing Policy and Community: The Path Forward for a Healthy Black Teacher Pipeline. The Panel features Kaya Henderson, Dr. John King, Jr., Dr. Lisette Nieves, and Superintendent Tony Watlington.
2025-11-2157 minWURD RadioThe Impact of City DEI Rollbacks - 11.20.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesSOLOMON JONES SITS DOWN FOR A CRUCIAL, NO-HOLDS-BARRED ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION WITH BUSINESS SECTOR LEADERS AND CONTRACTORS, AS THEY EXAMINE THE REAL-WORLD IMPACT OF THESE DECISIONS ON YOUR WORK, YOUR BUSINESS, AND YOUR LIVELIHOOD…AND WHAT THIS MEANS IN THE LARGER LANDSCAPE OF ATTACKS ON DIVERSITY PROGRAMS ACROSS THE NATION.
2025-11-2150 minWURD RadioSolomon Jones - Evening WURDs 11.20.25Solomon Jones, host of WURD Radio’s “Wake Up With WURD” moderated a panel on his show earlier today regarding the Mayor’s DEI initiatives. He joined Dr. Peterson to discuss what came out of the panel.
2025-11-2113 minWURD RadioErnest Owens - Evening WURDs 11.20.25Ernest Owens is the President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and host of WURD Radio’s “On The Record with Ernest Owens”. He joined Dr. Peterson to discuss a recent city council related press release regarding legislation seeking to make water bills more affordable for Philadelphians.
2025-11-2014 minThe Week on WURDState Budget Wins, DEI Losses, and Investing in Community: Joanna McClinton, Jordan Harris, Tayyib Smith, and Crystal Jacobs ShipmanPennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton and State Representative Jordan Harris, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to break down the newly passed $50.1 billion state budget after months of delays. They highlighted major victories — including historic school funding increases, a new tax credit for working families, and restored resources for domestic violence and rape crisis organizations. They also addressed the growing controversy over DEI rollbacks in Philadelphia, calling the moment a critical test for equity and governance across the Commonwealth.Tayyib Smith, curator of the art exhibition “The...
2025-11-201h 18WURD RadioONE PA - 11.18.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesResidents from throughout Philadelphia packed a City Hall hearing, calling on City Council to amend Mayor Cherelle Parker’s proposed budget for the H.O.M.E. Initiative to prioritize low-income renters and homeowners.
2025-11-2012 minWURD RadioMichael Sierra-Arévalo 11.19.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesAs ICE agents spread out in Democratic cities, we’ll speak with Professor Michael Sierra-Arévalo, author of "The Danger Imperative: Violence, Death, and the Soul of Policing." Do ICE agents follow standard policy practices or do they follow their own set of rules?
2025-11-1914 minWURD RadioAtif Saeed - 11.19.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesWith Thanksgiving coming and the government shutdown over, the FAA has restored all flights. Philadelphia International Airport CEO Atif Saeed joins us to talk about it.
2025-11-1913 minWURD RadioRishaun Hall - 11.19.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesRishaun Hall, Co-Vice President of Young Involved Philadelphia, joins us to talk about their new report on Youth in Philly.
2025-11-1912 minWURD RadioKristen Demilio - Evening WURDs 11.18.25Kristen Demilio is an investigative journalist who spent several years living and working in the Middle East. Kristen now lives in Philadelphia and reports on quality-of-life issues.
She joined Dr. Peterson for this week's Citizen WURD segment to discuss her recent article “Philly, Porch Pirate City”.
Article link: https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/philly-porch-pirate-city/
2025-11-1917 minWURD RadioTwin Sister Docs - 11.18.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDr. Delana Wardlaw and Dr. Elana McDonald are board certified physicians and they are twins. The doctors join us to talk about researchers at Penn, who say a blood pressure drug called hydralazine can potentially help fight cancer.
2025-11-1810 minWURD RadioNicholas O'Rourke - 11.18.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesCouncilman at large Nicholas O'Rourke joins the show. He talks to us about changes to the city's contract goals, and what it means for minority contractors.
2025-11-1817 minWURD RadioDr. Tim Golden - 11.17.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDr. Timothy Golden is a visiting Professor of Philosophy at Whitman College. For 20 years, he was a criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia and in the federal courts. Tim talks to us about President Donald Trump said House Republicans should vote to release the files in the Jeffrey Epstein case, after previously fighting the release, even as a growing number of those in his own party supported it.
2025-11-1815 minWURD RadioLarry Krasner - 11.17.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDA Larry Krasner Joins us to talk about crime in Philadelphia and the charges against Philadelphia Police officers in connection with a boxing program.
2025-11-1718 minWURD RadioJasper Liem - 11.14.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesJasper Liem joins the show. He is Executive Director of The Attic Youth Center, one of this year's Philly Gives nonprofit partners. The Attic Youth Center’s mission is to create opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community and to promote the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society.
2025-11-1610 minWURD RadioJasmine Goodwin - 11.14.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesJasmine Goodwin joins the show. She is the Founder and CEO of The Black Girl Agenda, A community where Black women grow, glow, and secure the bag together. Jasmine specializes in digital marketing and community building for e-commerce beauty, fashion, and consumer goods brands.
2025-11-1609 minWURD RadioL..G. Austin Davis - 11.14.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesLieutenant Governor Austin Davis joins the show. He talks to us about the newly approved State Budget, which includes a new state earned income tax credit that will provide nearly $200M in tax relief to low-income, working families
2025-11-1607 minWURD RadioIsa Segalovich - 11.13.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesIsa Segalovich joins the show. She is a media producer and content creator. She joins us to talk about a viral video she posted, which talks about the firing of the Philadelphia Art Museum CEO and how it may be grounded in diversity issues
2025-11-1312 minWURD RadioPatricia King - 11.13.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesPatricia King PECO Energy Manager, Community Engagement. While the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is on hold due to the federal government shutdown, PECO is reminding customers that several programs are available to assist both low-income and other customers with managing their energy bills
2025-11-1306 minWURD RadioJoanna McClinton & Jordan Harris 11.13.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesHouse Speaker Joanna McClinton and State Rep. Jordan Harris, who is chair of the House appropriations committee join the show. They talk to us about the newly passed state budget deal
2025-11-1318 minThe Week on WURDElections, Empowerment, and Expression: Mustafa Rashed, S. Mitra Kalita, and Kevin Powell on Politics and ProgressMustafa Rashed, president and CEO of Bellevue Strategies, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to break down the results of Tuesday’s elections across the country. Rashed highlighted key Democratic victories, examined what effective political messaging looks like in 2025, and warned of the Supreme Court’s growing threat to Black voting rights.S. Mitra Kalita, veteran journalist and co-founder and CEO of URL Media, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to unpack the New York City mayoral race, where voters decisively supported Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani. Kalita explored the social and political forc...
2025-11-1258 minWURD RadioKareem Rosser - 11.12.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesKareem Rosser, from the "Work to Ride" Program joins the show. It is a program which exposes young "at-risk" kids to equestrian sports. They just finished a massive renovated complex in fairmount park
2025-11-1210 minWURD RadioSenator Vincent Hughes - 11.12.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesSenator Vincent Hughes joins the show. Pennsylvania’s top legislative leaders and Gov. Josh Shapiro have agreed to a $50.1 billion state budget deal behind closed doors. Senator Hughes gives us some of the details behind the deal.
2025-11-1208 minWURD RadioMayor Cherelle Parker - 11.12.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesMayor Cherelle Parker joins the show. She talks to us about her Housing Opportunities Made Easy Program, as well as what her plan is for Philadelphia should President Donald Trump send in the National Guard.
2025-11-1219 minWURD RadioJamisha Ryans - 11.11.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesJamisha Ryans joins the show. She is the owner of “BLK Berry Juice Bar”. As part of WURD's "Ready Set Grow" initiative, Jamisha talks to us about how she is preparing for the increase of tourism in Philadelphia for the 250th anniversary in 2026
2025-11-1211 minWURD RadioMustafa Rashed - 11.11.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesAs eight Democrats break ranks to reopen the government, political commentator Mustafa Rashed joins us to talk about what it all means for the future of the affordable care act.
2025-11-1218 minWURD RadioSean Casey 11.10.25. Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesSean Casey joins the show. He is Senior Director of Military Affairs at Comcast. Sean talks to us about Comcast's 60+ year military legacy, starting with founder Ralph Roberts, a WWII Navy veteran
2025-11-1106 minWURD RadioNola Haynes - 11.6.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDr. Nola Haynes is a former adjunct senior fellow for the Technology and National Security Program at the Center for a New American Security, and served in the Biden-Harris administration as a member of the International Security Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of State. She joins us to talk about the Trump administration’s use of the military against Venezuelan boats, the deployment of the National Guard in Democratic cities, and the president’s about-face on Ukraine. Dr. Haynes talks to us about President Trump's threat to Nigeria, after accusations of African Christians being murdered.
2025-11-1116 minWURD RadioMichael Coard | The Midday Break Room w/ Tiffany Bacon - 11.6.25Michael Coard is the host of WURD’s Saturday afternoon program, ‘Radio Courtroom’, from 1-3 pm. Michael is also a Criminal Defense Attorney and Activist, who has more than 15 years of trial experience.
Michael joins the show to discuss how the government shutdown has affected his activist work in Philadelphia, and to give his thoughts on the state of Philadelphia after the elections, as well as New York having their first Muslim Mayor, and the significance of what this could mean for America moving forward.
2025-11-0722 minWURD RadioErnest Owens - Evening WURDs 11.6.25Ernest Owens is the President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists, and the host of WURD Radio’s “On The Record with Ernest Owens”. He joined Dr. Peterson to discuss Councilman Kenyatta Johnson's free food giveaway announcement, Chester County's commitment to investigating the poll books, Nancy Pelosi's decision to not seek reelection, the FAA's 10% reduction in airline traffic, and the election results from election day on November 4th.
2025-11-0723 minWURD RadioMustafa Rashed - 11.5.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesMustafa Rashed joins the show. He is the president & CEO of Bellevue Strategies. Mustafa talks to us about the outcome of yesterday's elections, and why the Democrats won in such an overwhelming fashion.
2025-11-0516 minThe Week on WURDAbby Phillip, Isaac Hayes III, and Leigh Owens on Power, Platforms, and Prison ReformCNN anchor Abby Phillip joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to discuss her debut book, A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power. Phillip reframes Rev. Jesse Jackson not as a fringe figure, but as a foundational architect of modern progressive politics — connecting his legacy to Barack Obama’s coalition-building and today’s struggles for voting rights and democracy.Isaac K. Hayes III — music producer, tech innovator, and son of the legendary soul artist Isaac Hayes — joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to share how his social med...
2025-11-0555 minWURD RadioDr. Delana Wardlaw and Dr. Elana McDonald - WUWW 11.4.25Dr. Delana Wardlaw and Dr. Elana McDonald are board certified physicians. They joined Wake Up With WURD to discuss some new studies, puberty, and a new data that indicates that nearly 400,000 students have experience gun violence at school.
2025-11-0414 minWURD RadioEducation Equity Summit Hour 2 - 10.25.25Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia and WURD Radio presented the Educational Equity Summit on Saturday, October 25 at Germantown Friends School. Moderator Dr. James Peterson guided an important conversation on diversity, equity, and innovation in education.
The panel featured some of the region’s most dynamic leaders: Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, chair of City Council’s Education Committee, on how policy shapes opportunity; Dr. Khalid Mumin, superintendent of Reading School District and former Pennsylvania Secretary of Education, offering state and local insights; Cara McClellan, director of Penn Law’s Advocacy for Racial and Civil Justice Clinic, connecting equity to legal reform; Michelle Palmer, execut...
2025-10-3154 minWURD RadioEducation Equity Summit Hour 1 - 10.25.25Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia and WURD Radio presented the Educational Equity Summit on Saturday, October 25 at Germantown Friends School. Moderator Dr. James Peterson guided an important conversation on diversity, equity, and innovation in education.
The panel featured some of the region’s most dynamic leaders: Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, chair of City Council’s Education Committee, on how policy shapes opportunity; Dr. Khalid Mumin, superintendent of Reading School District and former Pennsylvania Secretary of Education, offering state and local insights; Cara McClellan, director of Penn Law’s Advocacy for Racial and Civil Justice Clinic, connecting equity to legal reform; Michelle Palmer, execut...
2025-10-3150 minWURD RadioKen Martin - 10.30.29 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDemocratic Nation Committee Chairman Ken Martin joins the show. He talks to us about the upcoming election and his thoughts about the Trump administration blaming Democrats for the government shutdown.
This interview is a part of Every Voice, Every Vote, a collaborative project managed by The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. The William Penn Foundation provides lead support for Every Voice, Every Vote in 2024 and 2025 with additional funding from The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, Comcast NBC Universal, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Henry L. Kimelman Family Foundation, Judy and Peter Leone, Arctos Foundation, Wyncote Foundation, 25th Century Foundation...
2025-10-3015 minWURD RadioSenzwa Ntshepe - 10.29.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesSenzwa Ntshepe joins the show. He is the Founder of "The Connect PHL", Philly's black and brown professional networking group. They released a report called Al and the Black Community.
2025-10-3012 minWURD RadioLauren Cristella - 10.29.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesLauren Cristella joins the show. She is the President & CEO at the Committee of Seventy. Lauren gives us a look at what to expect on the ballot for this coming election.
2025-10-3010 minWURD RadioAngela Brooks - 10.29.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesAngela Brooks joins the show. She is the Chief Housing and Urban Development officer for the city of Philadelphia. Angela talks to us about City Council, which is considering the $194.5M package to start the mayor's housing initiative.
2025-10-3012 minWURD RadioDr. Alycia Marshall - 10.28.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesDr. Alycia Marshall joins the show. She is the new president of Community College of Philadelphia. Dr. Marshall talks to us about her vision for CCP, as well as their new partnership with Cheney University.
2025-10-2912 minWURD RadioAbby Phillip - 10.28.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesCNN's Abby Phillip joins the show. She talks to us about her new book, "A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power."
2025-10-2910 minWURD RadioHans Menos PHD - 10.27.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesHans Menos, PhD, is the Vice President of Public Safety Innovations at the Center for Policing Equity. He formerly served as Executive Director of the Philadelphia Police Advisory Commission. He joins us to talk about the racial implications of Trump’s Exemption for National Guard troops in San Francisco.
2025-10-2715 minWURD RadioMillion Man March Live Event - 10.26.25WURD was on the ground at LOVE Park for the 30th Anniversary of the Million Man March. Dr. James Peterson was broadcasting live in conversation with community leaders, residents, organizers, and elected officials reflecting on the movement’s legacy and its meaning for Philadelphia today. The event was organized by Philly Truce, the Nation of Islam, and the Urban League of Philadelphia.
2025-10-261h 35WURD RadioErnest Owens | Evening WURDs - 10.23.25President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists, author of the book “The Case For Cancel Culture” and the host of WURD Radio’s On The Record, Ernest Owens joins Dr. Peterson to discuss the candidate Dr. Ala Stanford, who was a recent guest on " On The Record". Ernst further shares his opinions on why some voters treat politics like a popularity contest.
2025-10-2428 minWURD RadioCouncilmember Kendra Brooks - WURD Radio, WVON and The Triibe Simulcast 10.15.25Philadelphia Councilmember Kendra Brooks is in her second term serving as Minority Leader of City Council, and is the first Working Families Party member elected to Philadelphia City Council in history.
She joined Dr. Peterson, WVON's Atiba Bachanan and LaDonna Raeh, and The Triibe's Tiffany Walden to discuss a resolution she introduced in City Council condemning Trump's National Guard deployment.
2025-10-2316 minWURD RadioMaurice Woodard - WURD Radio, WVON and The Triibe Simulcast 10.15.25Maurice Woodard is an activist from Chicago, who witnessed federal agents choking a Black man on Chicago's West Side. He joined WURD Radio's Dr. Peterson, WVON's Atiba Bachanan and LaDonna Raeh, and The Triibe's Tiffany Walden to discuss what is happening in Chicago.
2025-10-2226 minWURD RadioCindy Bass - 10.20.25 Wake Up With WURD w/ Solomon JonesCouncilmember Cindy Bass joins the show. She talks to us about the tragic discovery of Kada Scott's body at the vacant Ada Lewis Middle School, which is located in her District. Cindy wrote a letter to the Philadelphia School District about what should happen with the vacant building next.
2025-10-2210 minThe Week on WURDChicago Tensions, Resilience of Black Women, and the Fight for Clean CommunitiesWVON host Cleopatra Draper joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to share firsthand insight into what’s unfolding in Chicago following the deployment of the National Guard and ICE. Draper described how these actions are heightening fear and tension in Black neighborhoods and reflected on how residents are organizing and responding in real time.Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson featured Dr. McKinley Melton, chair of Africana Studies at Rhodes College, who discussed how the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement continue to shape today’s struggles for justice. Melton also spoke about his w...
2025-10-151h 08The Week on WURDLarry Krasner on Authoritarian Overreach, Starletta DuPois on New Roles, and Michael Coard on Protecting Black HistoryPhiladelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to respond to the Trump Administration’s deployment of the National Guard in Democratic-led cities, many governed by Black mayors. Krasner argued such actions are unconstitutional without a legitimate emergency, warned of the risk of authoritarian overreach, and shared what Philadelphians can do to protect their communities should troops come to the city.Dr. Starletta DuPois, acclaimed actress of stage, film, and television, joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to reflect on her decades-long career, spanning more than 90 film and TV...
2025-09-2550 minThe Week on WURDCharlie Kirk’s Death, Trymaine Lee on the True Cost of Violence, and the Debate Over Data CentersTrymaine Lee, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to discuss his new book A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America. Lee spoke about the history of African Americans and guns, his reporting on the gun industry, and his own lived experience—including surviving a heart attack at 38, which forced him to confront the deep toll of racism, violence, and generational trauma.Dr. Tim Golden, lawyer and philosophy professor, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to discuss the murder of Turning Point USA co-fo...
2025-09-171h 03The Week on WURDHerb Murrell’s Stylistics Legacy, Race-Baiting in Politics, and the National Guard in D.C.Herb Murrell, Philadelphia native, founding member, and longtime vocalist of The Stylistics, joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to preview the group’s upcoming performance. He reflected on The Stylistics’ legacy, their chart-topping classics like “You Make Me Feel Brand New” and “Betcha by Golly, Wow”, and their impact on Philadelphia’s music scene.Gregory Jackson, former Biden administration official and national policy strategist in gun violence prevention and racial equity, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to discuss his recent comments in The New York Times about President Trump’s use of race-baiting rheto...
2025-09-111h 03The Week on WURDRichard Lawson on Tyler Perry, Angela Matthews on Investing, and Adam Mahoney on Hurricane Katrina's ImpactsRichard Lawson, actor best known for roles in Dirty Harry, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Grey’s Anatomy and more, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to discuss Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black. He also reflected on his 50-year career and the ways Perry has supported Black media professionals in Hollywood.Angela Matthews, investment strategist and founder of the Happy Investor Method, joined Soulful Sunrise with Karen Taylor Bass to address the investment gap between Black men and women. She shared her personal journey into investing and offered insight into what...
2025-09-031h 01The Week on WURDLuenell on Comedy and Life on the Road, Vanessa German on Art and HealingLuenell, the “Original Bad Girl of Comedy” and one of LA Magazine’s top 25 funniest people in Los Angeles, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson for a candid and hilarious conversation. She talked about the comedians who inspired her, life on the road touring city to city, and her thoughts on the next wave of up-and-coming women in comedy.Vanessa German, nationally acclaimed artist, speaker, and sculptor, joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to preview her first Philly-area solo show at Rowan University, Breathe from the Diaphragm: our eyes are in our lungs. Sh...
2025-08-271h 12The Week on WURDKrasner on Federal Policing, Gia Peppers on Healing and Culture, and Future Cain on Mental Health at WorkPhiladelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to weigh in on the federal takeover of the DC Metropolitan Police Department. Krasner discussed whether a similar intervention could occur in Philadelphia and explained the state laws that shape how such actions can be applied.Gia Peppers, award-winning journalist and producer, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to talk about her podcast Healed Girl Era, a space for women navigating their healing journeys. She also explored the long history of Black vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard and shared insights on the recent fede...
2025-08-201h 50The Week on WURDJohn Graham on Black Marriage, Trinitee Stokes on Life After Disney, and Reginald Streater on School InfrastructureJohn Graham, founder and CEO of Upfront Marital Technologies, joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs to discuss the state of Black marriage and the historical forces that have strained Black relationships over generations. He spoke about the structural barriers couples face, the role strong families play in building thriving communities, and how he hopes his app Upfront — a platform designed to help Black professionals heal before they date — will support lasting love and resilience.Trinitee Stokes—19-year-old author, singer, actor, and songwriter best known for her role as Judy Cooper on Disney’s K.C. Undercover—joined The Mi...
2025-08-131h 04The Week on WURDSEPTA’s Deadline, Clipse’s Comeback, and Fibroid FactsSEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to explain the public transit agency’s ongoing structural budget deficit and what it means for Philadelphia commuters. He outlined the potential for widespread service cuts and fare hikes if lawmakers don’t reach a budget agreement by August 24.Justin Hunte, journalist and media critic, joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to break down the return of hip-hop duo Clipse and their new album Let God Sort Them Out. Hunte and Peterson also explored recent ad campaigns by American Eagle and Dunk...
2025-08-061h 07The Week on WURDTeaching While Black; Malcolm-Jamal Warner and the Black TV Legacy; Future of DEIFilm critic Tim Gordon joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to reflect on the career and cultural impact of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Gordon discussed Warner’s legacy within the Black community and how his role on The Cosby Show shaped his identity as “America’s son.”Dr. Alaysia Black Hackett, former chief diversity and equity officer at the U.S. Department of Labor, joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to discuss her book The Diversity Illusion. She shared insights on how diversity initiatives have been diluted in government and corporate spaces—and why D...
2025-07-301h 06The Week on WURDReform and Resistance: Summer Lee, Andre Carroll, and Keith Ellison, Summer Lee and Andre Carroll on Reform and ResistanceCongresswoman Summer Lee—the first Black woman elected to Congress from Pennsylvania—joined Wake Up With WURD guest hosts James Peterson and Keir Bradford-Grey to break down the new student loan law, the lack of federal aid, and how it could impact Black students and families.PA State Rep. Andre Carroll talks with Evening WURDs guest host P.O.C. about House Bill 1506, which would make it easier for incarcerated individuals to stay in touch with their loved ones through more affordable and accessible phone services.Minnesota Attorney General Keith Elliso...
2025-07-231h 26The Week on WURDThe Trump Mega Bill, Sesame Street’s First Black Female Puppeteer, and the Untold Story of Harriet Tubman’s War RaidPennsylvania State Representative Malcolm Kenyatta, who serves the 181st District, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to break down what he calls the Trump “mega bill.” He outlined how the legislation would raise taxes on economically disadvantaged Americans, channel billions toward ICE and the military, and slash funding for vital programs like Medicare—directly impacting seniors and people with disabilities.Megan Piphus, a four-time Emmy-winning producer and nationally recognized ventriloquist, stopped by The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon. Known for her role as Gabrielle on Sesame Street since 2020, Piphus shared her journey into...
2025-07-091h 02The Week on WURDSherri Shepherd; Josh Shapiro; Musiq SoulchildActress, comedian, author, and host of the Daytime Emmy-nominated talk show Sherri, Sherri Shepherd joined The Midday Break Room with Tiffany Bacon to discuss her career journey, her struggles in the entertainment industry, and her latest role in Tyler Perry’s new film, Straw.Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to discuss his delayed budget proposal amid a divided legislature. He also addressed key issues including the future of SEPTA, mass transit funding, and how his administration is navigating challenges under the Trump administration.Philly-born R&B and neo-soul icon Mus...
2025-07-021h 29The Week on WURDLeah Litman; Meg Berlin; Keir Bradford-GreyLeah Litman, author and law professor at the University of Michigan, joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs to discuss the Supreme Court’s increasingly conservative leanings and her view that the political system selectively protects certain groups.Meg Berlin, organizer of the “No Kings Coalition” march, spoke with Wake Up With WURD about the demonstration’s anti-Trump focus and its push to stop a Senate bill threatening major cuts to Medicaid and food assistance for millions.Attorney Keir Bradford-Grey, head of civil rights litigation at Marrone Law Firm, appeared on Evening WURDs to unpack a Ph...
2025-06-181h 00The Week on WURDCarl Singley; Kevin Bethel; Jasmine WrightCarl Singley, retired dean of Temple University Law School and founder of one of Philadelphia’s largest Black law firms, joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs to discuss how former President Donald Trump is undermining the foundations of American democracy through a sweeping series of executive orders.Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel appeared on Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to provide an update on the ongoing investigation into the Lemon Hill shooting. Commissioner Bethel shared how the department is leveraging social media and forensic technology to move the case forward....
2025-06-1159 minThe Week on WURDLauren Underwood; Rick Krajewski; Jennifer JonesCongresswoman Lauren Underwood of Illinois joins Solomon Jones on Wake Up With WURD to break down the House Republican budget proposal—and why she says it prioritizes tax breaks for the rich over essential programs like healthcare and nutrition.PA State Rep. Rick Krajewski sits down with Amadee Braxton on Solutions to discuss federal efforts to block states from creating AI regulations—and his new bill to regulate algorithm-driven rent pricing in Pennsylvania.Author and former Radio City Rockette Jennifer Jones joined Tonya Pendleton on Reality Check to share her journey as t...
2025-06-0533 minThe Week on WURDDr. Michael Eric Dyson; George Fatheree; Natasha Terrell and Jasmine AndersonDr. Michael Eric Dyson is a Vanderbilt University professor and author. Dr. Dyson joined Evening WURDs to discuss the "State of the People" power tour, reflect on the 5th year anniversary of George Floyd's murder and provide commentary on the current state of Black affairs in the country.George Fatheree is the founder of the Black Land Loss Narrative Archive Project. A nonprofit initiative dedicated to collecting, preserving and amplifying the overlooked stories of Black land loss in America. He joined Wake Up With WURD and discussed how Black Americans are continuously affected by...
2025-05-2844 minThe Week on WURDDr. Jelani Cobb; Dr. Abike James; Linn WashingtonDr. Jelani Cobb, author, political commentator, and dean of the Columbia Journalism School, joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs. They discussed the arrest and detention of Newark, N.J. Mayor Ras Baraka and the cultural impact of the new movie "Sinners."Dr. Abike James is an OBGYN at Penn Medicine. Dr. James spoke with Karen Taylor Bass on Soulful Sunrise about how trauma can imprint on Black women’s bodies after enduring domestic violence, in light of Cassie Ventura’s testimony in the federal trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs. Linn Washing...
2025-05-211h 25The Week on WURDQuetcy Lozada; Dr. Timnit Gebru; Sharif El-MekkiCouncilwoman Quetcy Lozada spoke on Wake Up With WURD to expand on her impassioned speech advocating for a bill affecting her Kensington district. On Thursday, City Council passed 13-3 legislation that Lozada said will bring structure to rehabilitated/addicted individuals in hubs and away from residential neighborhoods, children and senior residents.Dr. Timnit Gebru is an Ethiopian-born computer scientist and a leading voice in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) ethics. She is renowned for her work on algorithmic bias, data mining, and advocating for diversity and accountability in AI development. Dr. Gebru joined WURD Radio's special program "Artificial Intellige...
2025-05-1453 minThe Week on WURDRichard Kreitner; Michael Steele; Allison RussellJournalist Richard Kreitner joined Evening WURDs to discuss his new book "Fear No Pharaoh: American Jews, the Civil War, and the Fight to End Slavery." The book explores the complex roles American Jews played in the Civil War, from Jewish abolitionists to Confederate supporters, and how this legacy shapes Black-Jewish relations today.Michael Steele, former chair of the Republican National Committee and co-host of the new MSNBC show "The Weeknight" with Symone Sanders-Townsend and Alicia Menendez, joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to talk about challenging Trumpism, the fight for democracy and...
2025-05-0748 minThe Week on WURDSean Vereen; Malcolm Nance; Casey PeeksSean Vereen is the president and CEO of Heights Philadelphia, an organization dedicated to giving low-income communities resources they need for economic mobility. Vereen spoke with Tonya Pendleton on Reality Check and gave his expertise on why Philadelphia’s economy is stagnant and how the organization leads young people to create opportunities for themselves.National security expert Malcolm Nance joined Solomon Jones on Wake Up With WURD to discuss the Trump administration's potential withdrawal from negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Nance analyzed the implications of this move for the United States, emphasizing the importance of conti...
2025-04-3048 minThe Week on WURDDr. Meredith D. Clark; Dr. Marlene Daut; Sharif StreetDr. Meredith D. Clark is an associate professor at Northeastern University and the founder of the Center for Communication, Media Innovation and Social Change. Dr. Clark spoke with Tonya Pendleton on Reality Check on the importance of intimate Black social spaces through Twitter and what changed after Elon Musk’s leadership. Dr. Marlene Daut is a Yale University professor and recent author of "The First and Last King of Haiti." She joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs and talked about how American media has revised current events in Haitian livelihood and politics and ho...
2025-04-2949 minThe Week on WURDKevin Shird; Mazzie Casher; Cherelle ParkerKevin Shird is a three-time published author, activist and lecturer. He joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to discuss his latest book, "A Life for a Life: Poor Choices and Unresolved Trauma Is Killing America."Mazzie Casher is the co-founder and executive director of the Philly Truce Foundation. He spoke with Reality Check host Tonya Pendleton about the initiative for Philly Truce, the motive for creating it and the services it offers the community. Mayor Cherelle Parker joined Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones to talk about the...
2025-04-171h 05The Week on WURDAimee Inama; Walter M. Kimbrough; Gabriel EscobarAimee Inama is PennDOT’s press officer for driver and vehicle services. Inama joined Tonya Pendleton on Reality Check to remind listeners of the upcoming travel deadline to file for Real ID and the quick process to obtain yours before May 7, 2025.Walter M. Kimbrough is the president of Talladega College and author of a recent op-ed article on the hazing death of Omega Psi Phi pledge Caleb Wilson. He joined Evening WURDs with Dr. James Peterson to contextualize hazing traditions at historically Black colleges and universities and the mixed reactions to Wilson’s death.Gabriel Esco...
2025-04-0947 min
The Week on WURDMary Gay Scanlon; Maurice Mitchell; Jared BassThe Week on WURD: Mary Gay Scanlon; Maurice Mitchell; Jared Bass showcases U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, National Director for the Working Families Party (WFP), Maurice Mitchell and Jared C. Bass who is the senior vice president for education policy at Center for American Progress.Details:U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon spoke with Solomon Jones on Wake Up With WURD about The Atlantic editor-in-chief viewing classified war plans that were sent to him hours before they were enacted. Scanlon also talked about the Trump administration's insurrection pardons, attacks on free...
2025-04-0259 min