KMOJCast

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Floyd Jones joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss the mission of BackBlack and its work connecting Black-led nonprofits with funding, resources, and greater visibility. He highlights the impact of investing in organizations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and shares how BackBlack helped direct more than $11.5 million to Black-led nonprofits last year. Jones also previews Black Philanthropy Month in August, a global celebration of generosity, community leadership, and collective impact, centered on the theme “Many Voices. One Movement.” The conversation explores Minnesota’s vibrant Black philanthropic ecosystem and encourages listeners to support local organizations through volunteering, mentoring, advocacy, and charitable giving.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Reverend James Stacey, Minister of Unity South Twin Cities in Bloomington, joins Freddie Bell for the Community Builders Series to discuss the power of community building through service, compassion, and shared purpose. Drawing on decades of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership, Rev. Stacey shares how the simple question, "How can we help?" has guided his congregation's work and strengthened relationships across communities. He reflects on how Unity South supported a neighboring Hispanic/Latino congregation during and after the ICE surge, providing financial assistance and encouragement to families facing fear, housing instability, and uncertainty. The conversation highlights the importance of showing up for one another, building bridges across cultures, and creating communities where people feel seen, honored, and respected.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Natalia Terfa joins Freddie Bell to discuss her new book, It All Counts. Drawing from her experiences as a pastor, writer, and community member, Terfa explores how ordinary moments, relationships, and daily choices can carry profound meaning, even when life feels overwhelming. She shares insights on cultivating hope, paying attention to what matters most, and finding purpose in the midst of busy schedules and uncertainty. The conversation offers listeners practical ways to embrace gratitude, deepen connections with others, and recognize that every act of kindness, courage, and compassion truly counts.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, best-selling author, poet, and journalist Clint Smith joins Freddie Bell to discuss his acclaimed book How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning With the History of Slavery Across America and his upcoming appearance as the featured speaker at the Minnesota Humanities Center's Juneteenth Brunch. Smith reflects on why confronting the history of slavery is essential to understanding the United States today, how communities can build a nation that lives up to its highest ideals, and why efforts to erase African American history are ultimately unsuccessful. The conversation explores the power of storytelling, historical memory, and public dialogue in shaping a more informed and equitable future. Smith also shares insights from his work as a writer and educator and discusses the enduring importance of Juneteenth as a moment for reflection, celebration, and collective learning.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Kia Bratz, Manager of Marketing Events at Mystic Lake Hotel Casino, joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to preview The Great Midwest Rib Fest, taking place June 25–27 in Prior Lake. She discusses the family-friendly event featuring award-winning pitmasters from across the country, free live entertainment, food vendors, and the opportunity for attendees to vote for their favorite ribs. Kia also highlights the growing rivalry between Minnesota-based Just North of Memphis BBQ and Carolina BBQ, two family-connected teams competing for top honors. The conversation includes details about the World Rib Eating Championship, cash prizes for competitors, and what visitors can expect during one of the region’s biggest summer food festivals.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams joined Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to spotlight a season of celebration across Minneapolis Public Schools, highlighting the accomplishments of students, educators, and athletic teams. She congratulated music educators Lesley Earles and Laurie Meyers for being named quarterfinalists for the 2027 Grammy Educator of the Year Award and recognized the district’s 2026 Athena Award winners for excellence in athletics and leadership. Dr. Sayles-Adams also celebrated championship moments for Anthony Middle School girls flag football, Roosevelt High School’s adapted bowling team, and Southwest High School’s Unified soccer team, while applauding Olson Middle School teacher James Ellis for earning Fox9’s Top Teacher Award. The conversation wrapped with excitement around the Class of 2026 as MPS prepares for 15 graduation ceremonies and encourages seniors to dream big and continue making a difference.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Chief Joe Dotseth joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss his vision for public safety across the Twin Cities transit system and how the Metro Transit Police Department is taking a whole-community approach to policing. He explains how beat policing, neighborhood engagement, and partnerships with social service organizations are helping improve safety while connecting riders experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges to support. Dotseth also highlights outreach efforts, including the Northside Community Engagement Team and initiatives designed to build trust between law enforcement and the communities Metro Transit serves. The conversation explores early results from Metro Transit’s Safety and Security Action Plan, including increased proactive policing efforts and reductions in serious crime across the transit system.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Marquita W. Stephens joins Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings to discuss her historic leadership as the first female President & CEO of Urban League Twin Cities and how the organization is responding to today’s political and economic climate. She shares how Urban League Twin Cities continues to provide critical workforce services, helping individuals gain skills, secure employment, and build long-term stability. Stephens also highlights the organization’s family stabilization efforts, designed to support families navigating economic uncertainty and systemic barriers. The conversation explores the importance of investing in youth development, including the need for continued funding for summer programs that create safe spaces, leadership opportunities, and pathways to success for young people.