Best WYXR Podcasts (2024)

1
Meagan May with Backbeat Tours (Part 2) 47:06

2d ago47:06

47:06

“This is OUR city.” This episode of Just Bluffin’ features a bonus episode with Megan May of Backbeat Tours. Megan is such a wealth of Memphis knowledge that we had to dedicate another episode just to her! We cover a variety of fun things to do, see, and eat in the city. She also tells the infamous Elvis story that started his career and discusses …

1
S1E159 - Ted Townsend; Leslie Taylor and Norman Blake; and Vincent C. Perry 57:15

3d ago57:15

57:15

Episode Notes My guests include Ted Townsend, President/CEO Greater Memphis Chamber. There is a lot of building going on downtown these days as one can see, and he joins me to share his goals, the overall direction of the city and the concerns about crime and how it might affect future growth. Speaking of crime, the criminal justice system can be a…

1
Lori Jones with DeNeuville Learning Center for Women 46:15

16d ago46:15

46:15

“If we really want to change the outcome for Memphis children, we have to support their mothers.” On this week’s episode, we chat with Lori Jones from the DeNeuville Learning Center for Women about the impact of quality education for women and girls and the importance of an organization like this in Memphis. In this episode, we learn more about DLC…

1
S1E158 - Althea Greene, Brian Harris, and August White 56:57

17d ago56:57

56:57

Episode Notes My guests include MSCS Board Chair Althea Greene. Difficult times filled with frustration does not begin to describe the many issues the board has had to address over the past year plus, but now the selection of a new school superintendent has finally been completed. She tells me what the path forward now looks like for our students a…

1
Moog Show 58:34

21d ago58:34

58:34

Today on the show I feature songs with the Moog synthesizer. I had the opportunity to visit the Moogseum in Asheville, NC. It is funded by the Bob Moog Foundation and I feature tunes from Lisa Bella Donna's commissioned album for the Moogseum's 15 anniversary. Bob Moog saw himself as a tool maker, creating tools for artists and muscians to bring th…

1
S1E157 - Durell Cowan, Angela Owens, and Otis Sanford 58:28

24d ago58:28

58:28

Episode Notes My guests include Durell Cowan, founder and executive director of Heal 901. Since 2018, this organization has focused on violence prevention especially within youth populations. He tells us the challenges they face as well as the successes they continue to see. Next, remember the days when physicians actually made house-calls? Angela …

1
Meka Egwuekwe with Code Crew 39:57

1M ago39:57

39:57

“In the Bluff City, we just bluffin’.” On this week’s episode, Shannon and Cecilia talk to Meka Egwuekwe of Code Crew. He teaches us about the value of a skill like coding and how AI will continue to impact our society. We learn about all the programs and classes available at Code Crew, including a special upcoming program for toddlers. He also tal…

1
S1E156 - Bacarra Mauldin, Mack Weaver, and Kadesha Gordon 58:33

1M ago58:33

58:33

Episode Notes My guests include Bacarra Mauldin, Interim CEO of MATA. She is the first Black female to head the transit organization. She speaks to me about the significance of being selected to this position as well as the challenges and her vision for the future. Mack Weaver has been with the Memphis in May organization for over 25 years, and was…

1
MMI X Unapologetic Partnership 58:39

1M ago58:39

58:39

On Sonosphere today we hear live from the WYXR studios my chat with Kid Maestro of Unapologetic collective and Brandy Cassius with the Memphis Music Initiative. They teamed up to put on a free arts workshop for Memphis youth! On March 16, MMI is partnering with UNAPOLOGETIC. for an artist & engineer music recording workshop. Kid is and the UNAPOLOG…

1
Jeremy Park with City Current 50:34

2M ago50:34

50:34

“You have to go deeper in order to make positive change.” On this week’s show we talk with Jeremy Park from City Current, a nonprofit in Memphis and Nashville that connects businesses with nonprofits. We chat about volunteerism and the importance of giving back in our community. Jeremy tells us about his time in LA and how playing tennis led him to…

1
S1E155 - Ramesh Akbari, Kevin Ritz, and Sondra Kaye King 1:00:32

2M ago1:00:32

1:00:32

Episode Notes Guests include State Senator Ramesh Akbari. She is having a busy legislative season with a primary focus on public safety. She speaks about her sponsorship of a bill that could soon become law which would reduce medical deaths in police custody among other things. U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz is the Chief federal law enforcement officer i…

1
S1E154 - Dr. Reginald Boyce, and Carol Jackson 55:01

2M ago55:01

55:01

Episode Notes My guests include Rev. Dr. Reginald Boyce, Dir. Office of Community Affairs and Special Assistant to Mayor Young. This week, the City of Memphis begins a listening tour called One Memphis beginning in Whitehaven. Dr. Boyce shares its intent and why it’s important for all citizens to be involved. Next, we all know how important the fam…

1
Geoff Calkins with the Daily Memphian 56:56

2M ago56:56

56:56

“It is a privilege to get to tell people’s stories.” On this episode of Just Bluffin’ we are joined by The Daily Memphian’s Geoff Calkins. Shannon and Cecilia discuss what it means to be a sports fan in a city like Memphis. Geoff tells us about his family up north, his favorite columns, and why community journalism matters. We learn why Geoff chose…

1
S1E153 - Dwania Kyles and Leigh Mansberg 58:20

2M ago58:20

58:20

Episode Notes My guests include a true Memphis trailblazer and barrier breaker in 1961. As she was a member of the Memphis 13, who helped open doors in education many of us take for granted. Dwania Kyles shares her story as one of the first Black students to integrate a Memphis City School. Next, Junior Achievement of the Mid South is an organizati…

1
S1E152 - Erika Sugarmon, Madeline Lyles and Dana Taylor; and Trey Moore 59:37

2M ago59:37

59:37

Episode Notes My guests include Shelby County Commissioner Erika Sugarmon. It has already been a busy legislative session with several issues at the forefront. One of those is the appointment of a civilian review board for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. She tells me as sponsor, why it was so important to the community. Next, as we celebrate Bl…

1
Mia Henley with Creative Aging 42:55

2M ago42:55

42:55

We want to make Memphis a good place to live, work and retire.”This week, Shannon, Cecilia, and Sophie chat with Mia Henley from Creative Aging! She explains how creativity and the arts can help older adults thrive during retirement. In our conversation, we discuss Creative Aging's many programs and events, including the often-sold-out theater perf…

1
S1E151 - Kirsten Hipkins, Andrew Humphrey, and Stan Bell 1:00:13

2M ago1:00:13

1:00:13

Episode Notes On this episode of Real Talk Memphis, my guests include Kirsten Hipkins from the Community Alliance for the Homeless. Recently, as the Coordinated Entry Director, her team went into our streets for the Point in Time Count. Their goal is to not only help the homeless but to one day eliminate it. Next, weather in the Mid-South can be on…

1
S1E150 - Jerri Green, Sam McKenzie, and Sarah Houston 59:35

3M ago59:35

59:35

Episode Notes My guests include Newly elected Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green. She is one of seven women on the body and recently voted no to reappoint now Interim Chief CJ Davis. She gives her reasons and what steps she thinks should happen next. Last week, a City Hall press conference was held to announce the introducing a new amendment to …

1
Laird Veatch with University of Memphis Athletics 1:00:36

3M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

On today’s episode of Just Bluffin’, we chat with Laird Veatch, the Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at The University of Memphis. He tells us all about the future of Memphis collegiate sports and what is to come for Simmons Bank Memorial Stadium among other exciting development projects. We chat about everything from NIL to…

1
S1E149 - Paul Young, Toni Williams, and Evan Wu 58:52

3M ago58:52

58:52

Episode Notes My guests include the honorable Mayor Paul Young who after only being in office barely a month already has a full plate. A major snow storm that brought things to a grinding halt and a new City Council that put the brakes on the reappointment of Police Chief Davis. He talks about that and the rest of his agenda. Toni Williams is the I…

1
Josh Campbell with Spillit Memphis 48:32

3M ago48:32

48:32

"If we got into those neighborhoods and really listened to each other, then we could make some real progress.” During this week’s show, Shannon and Cecilia are joined by Josh Campbell of Spillit Memphis. He tells us about his love for storytelling and how the Spillit Grand Slam came to be. We discuss the impact of good stories and how storytelling …

1
S1E148 - Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, Pearl Eva Walker, and Tarik Sugarmon 59:37

3M ago59:37

59:37

Episode Notes My guests include newly elected City Councilwomen Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, Super district 8-3 and Pearl Eva Walker who represents District 3. They are part of history as two of seven women elected making them the majority for the first time since the Mayor-Council form of government. I ask them why they decided to run, what their consti…

1
Al Kapone 44:47

4M ago44:47

44:47

“We are the world, we are the Memphis.” On this very special episode of Just Bluffin’, we chat with Al Kapone. The Memphis hip-hop legend gives us an in-depth history of the Memphis sound and the “gangsta walk.” He talks about his start in music and how he was influenced by Stax and other local legends. Cecilia and Al bond over their love of “takin…

1
S1E147 - Randy Taylor, Justin J. Pearson, and Otis L. Sanford 58:34

4M ago58:34

58:34

Episode Notes My guests include Randy Taylor, MPD officer, community activist and founder of Hope Activated. He felt this to be a calling he had to follow in order to save the lives of young men by making right choices. He shares his ministry which involves his own two sons. To say this year has been a whirlwind for State Representative Justin J. P…

1
Dacquiri Baptiste with Orpheum Memphis Group 25:57

4M ago25:57

25:57

“What I have noticed about Memphis is people tend to leave and come back because there is space to think and be creative here.” Shannon and Cecilia are joined by Daiquiri Baptiste from the Orpheum Memphis. We chat about her day-to-day at the Orpheum and how not one day looks the same. She tells us all about her history as a dancer and how it impact…

1
S1E146 - Rhonda Logan, Trevia Chatman, and Dr. Steve Threlkeld 58:55

4M ago58:55

58:55

Episode Notes My guests include Councilwoman Rhonda Logan who will begin her second term representing district 1 January 1. As she prepares for the last council meeting of 2023 and the addition of several new members I ask the important questions; how do we get a handle on crime, strengthen the economic picture and what her overall agenda looks lik…

1
S1E145 - Ike Griffith, Rhonda Treadwell, and Tiffani Morrow Smith 57:35

5M ago57:35

57:35

Episode Notes My guests include Ike Griffith, Director Memphis Office of Youth Services. He will tell us about the Summer Employment Registration, (MPLOY) signup program for ages 14-22 and also bringing back another community initiative involving our young people. Next, being designated a Neighborhood Champion is no small feat, but one organization…

1
Ciara Neill with LPI Memphis 37:18

5M ago37:18

37:18

On this episode of Just Bluffin’, we talk with Ciara Neill with LPI Memphis about her academic background that indirectly led her to be the marketing pro she is today. Listen as she shares all the fun details on upcoming events in Overton Square, Broad Avenue Arts District, and all the other LPI entertainment districts that help Memphis thrive. ---…

1
S1E144 - Amy Kalb and Kache Brooks; Brian Harris, and Charlie Caswel 58:17

5M ago58:17

58:17

Episode Notes My guests include Amy Kalb and Kache Brooks who will share information and details about a County program that deals directly with both youth and families hopefully keeping them from making dangerous choices. There is also a new mental health component included that meets young people where they are. Brian Harris will proudly tell any…

1
Jessica Lotz with Innovate Memphis 31:15

5M ago31:15

31:15

“I know in Memphis, we are hard on ourselves on everything that we want to improve, but it's always so great when you see people from other cities just be blown away.”On this week’s show we chat with Jessica Lotz of Innovate Memphis about the impact of community engagement in Memphis and how Innovate Memphis supports the city. We also talk about ho…

1
S1E143 - Carol Jackson, Chris Hope, and Wendi C. Thomas 58:00

5M ago58:00

58:00

Episode Notes My guests include Carol Jackson, Executive Director of Families Matter. This organization is intentional as they dedicate themselves to the betterment of children while caring for and instructing parents in understanding their God given role within the family. She tells me about their latest initiative. The Chris Hope Foundation is a …

1
S1E142 - Dr. Derek Kelly, Kym Clark, and Tiffani Perry 59:00

6M ago59:00

59:00

Episode Notes Guests include Dr. Derek Kelly, Pediatric Orthopedic surgeon for Campbell Clinic and LeBonheur Children's hospital. Kym Clark is a long time and very popular news anchor for WMC TV Action News 5. My former colleague joins me to discuss her legendary career which spans almost three decades and how the business has changed. Finally, we …

1
Bill Webb Jr. and Memphis Weirdos 46:15

6M ago46:15

46:15

It's spooky season in the 901! On this special Halloween episode of Just Bluffin’ we talk with paranormal enthusiast Bill Webb, founder and host of the short wave radio show Memphis Weirdos and local haunted tour guide. He tells us all about Memphis’s spooky history, his most experiences as a paranormal investigator, and how much the yellow fever i…

1
S1E141 - Kimberly Gaither, Stephanie Ferreira, and Robert Salone 58:38

6M ago58:38

58:38

Episode Notes My guests include Kimberly Gaither who, as we honor Breast Cancer Awareness month is a survivor more than once. She was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, (TNBC) which is an aggressive less common type of breast cancer affecting women younger than 40. She shares her story of struggle, courage and survival. We all enjoy a go…

1
S1E140 - Mark Russell, Ponya Dodson, and Ursula Logan 56:46

6M ago56:46

56:46

Episode Notes My guests include Mark Russell, Executive editor of the Commercial Appeal newspaper. He shares what it’s like to run a daily paper in digital and in print, and determining what is important to readers. Also, in a changing world, how has the newspaper business changed for today’s audience. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month a…

1
Meagan May with Backbeat Tours (Part 1) 45:45

6M ago45:45

45:45

“We have a responsibility to bring Memphis history to an entire new generation of people.” On this episode of Just Bluffin’ we chat with Meagan May of Backbeat Tours. Meagan tells us all about Memphis history and what makes us the music city of the world. She shares stories about her favorite Memphis landmarks and we learn about the impact of the N…

1
S1E139 - Britney Thornton, Brett Batterson, and Joyce Franklin-Smith 55:35

6M ago55:35

55:35

Episode Notes My guests include District 10 County Commissioner Britney Thornton who is rescheduled from last week. I speak with her about her first year in office, the challenges and the triumphs. Also, what she sees as the road ahead and what other issues she wants to tackle. Brett Batterson is the President and CEO of the Orpheum Theatre Group. …

1
Jackson McNeil with Commute Options 40:35

7M ago40:35

40:35

“Memphis needs to build up, not out.” This week, we chat with Jackson McNeil from Commute Options about Memphis transportation and our city’s transit and safety needs. He discusses how childhood impacted his love for cities and movement. From city density to bicycling to work and how Memphis is superior to Nashville, this is an episode you won’t wa…

1
Optic Sink: Live DJ Set at WYXR Studio 50:45

7M ago50:45

50:45

On this week's Sonosphere show on WYXR 91.7 FM, Optic Sink joined me for a live DJ set! You'll hear lots of dance tunes and a couple tracks from Optic Sink's latest album, Glass Box out now. Check it out! The band is on tour in Oct. don't miss them in your town!By Sonosphere Podcast

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S1E138 - Patrice Robinson, Vinessa Brown, and Dr. Reginald Boyce

7M ago

—

Episode Notes My guests include Memphis District 3 City Councilwoman Patrice Robinson. She is winding up her second and final term and as she prepares to leave, I ask her about the high and low points, where the city is at today from her view and about her upcoming new position with TVA and why it’s so important for MLGW customers. LifeLine to Succ…

1
Gwyn Fisher with the Greater Memphis Chamber 59:42

7M ago59:42

59:42

“Those smaller wins at the neighborhood level are the ones that strengthen Memphis.” This week, we chat with Gwyn Fisher with the Greater Memphis Chamber about the importance of economic development in Memphis. Tune in to learn more about the impact of projects like Blue Oval City and how much fun Memphis is on the weekends. ----- Just Bluffin’ is …

1
S1E137 - Sarah Houston, Monique Williams, and Dr. Childi Zacheaus 58:59

7M ago58:59

58:59

Episode Notes Guests include Sarah Houston, the Executive director of Protect the Aquifer. Water, as we know is our most precious resource and it is imperative that we do all we can to keep it safe and pure. Sarah gives us the latest update and tells us about the new fellows position. Monique Williams is a woman of many talents including being a re…

1
S1E136 - Steve Mulroy, Katherine Burgess, CJ Thomas 58:02

7M ago58:02

58:02

Episode Notes My guests include Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. He has just finished his first year in office and to say it’s been challenging is an understatement. From Eliza Fletcher to Young Dolph to Tyre Nichols just to name a few, his office has been under the hot glare of the spotlight. He tells me how it’s been and what other n…

1
Jared Boyd with WYXR 1:02:01

8M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

“I can only hope that my children experience the spirit of Memphis the same way where we just have such a specific culture.” On this week’s episode, we chat with Jared Boyd from WYXR, our favorite local radio station. We discuss Memphis music, culture and a really awesome trip to New York where Jared brought Memphis to New York. ----- Just Bluffin’…

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S1E135 - Johnnie Mosley, Kermit Moore, and Carol Coletta 58:25

8M ago58:25

58:25

Episode Notes My guests include Johnnie Mosley, Chairman, Citizens for Better Service. Recently, a group of concerned citizens held a community meeting about problems and issues facing the bus riders of MATA. They met with CEO Gary Rosenfeld and Congressman Steve Cohen about issues ranging from delayed to ‘no show’ buses on fixed routes to scheduli…

1
Lar’Juanette Williams with Memphis Black Arts Alliance 59:46

8M ago59:46

59:46

“Memphis is the cultural heartbeat of the world.” During this week’s episode, we chat, laugh, and learn with Lar’Juanette Williams from Memphis Black Arts Alliance. We discuss the power of performing arts and its impact in neighborhood communities like the ones in Memphis, TN. She shares stories from her Broadway tour days and we learn all about he…

1
S1E134 - Leta McCollough Seletzky; Rosalyn Nichols and Janiece Lee; and Karen Vogelsang 57:10

8M ago57:10

57:10

Episode Notes My guests include Leta McCollough Seletzky, author of ‘The Kneeling Man’ with an unbelievably true life story involving a member of her own family. When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr was shot and killed in Memphis April 4, 1968 at the Lorraine Motel, several people were with him on that balcony including one man who knelt next to him afte…

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S1E133 - Ernest Strickland, John Ray Clemmons, and Girls on the Run 58:25

8M ago58:25

58:25

Episode Notes My guests include Ernest Strickland, President of the Black Business Association of Memphis. They are tasked to improve the economic well being of Memphis by developing successful entrepreneurs through business development. He will tell us about a very important event they are hosting called Building Wealth in the Black Community and …

1
Major Talent: C Major's Sonic Tonic 59:25

8M ago59:25

59:25

C Major shares his journey through his career in music.And we'll hear a few tracks he shares, why he chose them and some advice he has for anyone looking to come up in the music industry. Join us!www.sonospherepodcast.comBy Sonosphere Podcast

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S1E34 - Ep. 34: Tish Henley 27:04

8M ago27:04

27:04

Episode Notes On today's episode our host, Silver, spoke with Elvis Presley's long-time nurse and friend, Tish Henley. Tish has an amazing new book out called 'Taking Care of Elvis' and it is a page turner! They spoke about Elvis' love of reading (and being read to), his penchant for mischief, and a whole lot more. Tish was a pleasure to talk to an…

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