Philadelphia is preparing for a once-in-a-generation moment—a historic summer in 2026 that will bring the world to our city. From the global excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game 2026 and the celebration of America’s 250th birthday, more than half a million visitors are expected. Joining us is Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s Director for 2026, along with Deputy Director Tyrone Dixon, to discuss how the city is preparing for this global moment—and how they’re working to ensure every neighborhood benefits through economic opportunity, community engagement, and safe, accessible experiences for residents and visitors alike.  

Then, as Philadelphia celebrates World Heritage Month this May, we turn to the power of food to connect cultures. Chef Mia Castro—a Puerto Rican chef, television personality, and author—joins us ahead of her appearance at the Free Library of Philadelphia on Wednesday, May 14th from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. She’ll share stories and recipes from her debut cookbook Cocina Puerto Rico: Recipes from My Abuela’s Kitchen to Yours as part of A Celebration of the Global Culinary Arts, presented in partnership with Global Philadelphia Association.  

We also speak with Atima Omara, a nationally recognized political strategist, speaker, and author of the forthcoming book The Instigators: How Black Women Have Been Essential to American Democracy (And What We Can Learn From Them). Drawing on more than two decades of experience in progressive politics, Atima highlights the powerful—and often overlooked—role Black women have played in shaping American democracy, offering both inspiration and a roadmap for today’s political moment. Stay with us.

🌐 More Information & Resources:
• City of Philadelphia: https://www.phila.gov
• Philadelphia 250: https://www.philadelphia250.us
• Visit Philadelphia: https://www.visitphilly.com
• Free Library event details: https://www.freelibrary.org
• Global Philadelphia Association: https://globalphiladelphia.org
• Atima Omara: https://atima-omara.com/ 📱 Follow for Updates:
• @VisitPhilly | @PHL250
• ChefMiaCastro (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook)
• Atima Omara: Instagram @atima_omara

How is healthcare showing up where it’s needed most? Today, we explore how Temple Health is transforming community care in North Philadelphia through innovative partnerships and neighborhood-based services. At the center of this effort is the Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center, a groundbreaking initiative developed in collaboration with community leaders and organizations like Called to Serve CDC. Located in the heart of North Philadelphia, the center brings healthcare, education, workforce development, and social services together under one roof—making care more accessible, trusted, and community-driven.

We’re joined by Dr. Nina O’Connor, Chair of Family and Community Medicine at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, and Reverend Mike Major Sr. of Called to Serve CDC. Together, they explore how the Sullivan Community Impact Center is creating new pathways for health, empowerment, and connection in North Philadelphia.
 🔗 Learn more:
Temple Health: https://www.templehealth.org
Sullivan Community Impact Center: https://www.calledtoservecdc.org/sullivanimpactcenter.html

For Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati’s monthly feature “VLS Journeys,” she speaks  with Shakia Williams, founder of Cyrenity Sips Winery—a Black woman–owned, family-run micro-winery just outside Philadelphia. Cyrenity Sips is a boutique winery where everything—from fermentation to bottling—is done on-site, creating a hands-on, community-centered experience. One of the few Black woman–owned wineries in the country, the business is rooted in a mission to make wine more accessible, inclusive, and culturally connected.

Shakia shares her journey into winemaking, how she’s redefining wine culture, and what makes her small-batch wines—from traditional blends to creative seasonal flavors—stand out. The tasting room offers wine flights, educational experiences, and private events designed to welcome everyone into the world of wine. Learn more:
🌐 Website: https://cyrenitysips.com
📱 Instagram: @therealcyrenitysipswinery
📘 Facebook: Cyrenity Sips Winery


In her monthly feature “What Is Philadelphia Reading,” Vanesse also speaks with Barnett Wright, the new Managing Editor of The Philadelphia Tribune. He shares insights on the future of the historic publication, the importance of Black media, and how the Tribune continues to inform and empower the community.

At every stage of life, more people are rethinking what it truly means to live well—seeking balance, connection, and affordability in an increasingly complex world. What if the future of living isn’t about going it alone, but about building community with intention? In this episode, we’re joined by Danielle Cohn, Founder and President of My Inspirement, a nonprofit platform helping people design more connected, affordable, and fulfilling lifestyles with friends and family. Through innovative tools, education, and ideas around shared living, care, and community, My Inspirement is reimagining what the next chapter of life can look like—at any age.

You can explore their beta planning tool and learn more at www.myinspirement.org, and follow on Instagram @myinspirement.

Then, we mark a powerful milestone—50 years of service from the Women’s Center of Montgomery County. Executive Director Maria Macaluso joins us to discuss the organization’s life-saving work supporting survivors of domestic violence through critical services like a 24-hour hotline, safe housing, legal advocacy, and counseling. If you or someone you know needs help, the Women’s Center’s 24-hour confidential hotline is 1-800-773-2424—support is always available.

 As the need continues to grow, the Women’s Center remains a vital resource in the community—working alongside schools, law enforcement, and healthcare providers to protect and empower survivors. Their 50th anniversary celebration will take place on October 15th at Highlands Mansion and Gardens in Fort Washington, marking five decades of impact and looking ahead to the future of their mission. Learn more about their services, volunteer opportunities, and how to support at www.wc.montco.org.

May is World Heritage Month, and Philadelphia is taking center stage as the first World Heritage City in the United States. In this episode, we’re joined by Zabeth Teelucksingh, President of the Global Philadelphia Association, to talk about how this month-long celebration highlights the city’s global significance, rich history, and vibrant cultural diversity. World Heritage Month features a wide range of events across the city throughout May—from cultural festivals and international programs to educational events and community celebrations that reflect Philadelphia’s deep connections to the world.  

Learn how the Global Philadelphia Association has spent more than a decade promoting the region as a hub for global engagement—creating economic and cultural opportunities while uplifting the voices of diverse communities. Whether you're a lifelong Philadelphian or new to the city, this is your invitation to explore, connect, and celebrate what makes Philadelphia truly global.
🌐 Website & Socials:
Website: globalphiladelphia.org
Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @GlobalPhila  

Today, we’re sharing two powerful stories about the impact of compassion, mentorship, and showing up for others. First, we’re joined by Monique Thomas Fillis, a dedicated direct service provider whose life changed when she stepped in to support Isaiah, a man living with Down Syndrome and Autism. What began as a professional role has grown into a nine-year bond rooted in trust, advocacy, and chosen family.

We’ll also talk about the upcoming 34th Annual “My City, My Place” Brighter Futures Awards, which recognize individuals making extraordinary contributions to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and autism.

Then, we turn to the power of mentorship and representation with Leslie Morris, Founder of Women of the Dream. What started as a vision to highlight the success stories of Black women graduates of Simmons University has evolved into a transformative program serving more than 3,000 girls in Camden—preparing them for leadership, education, and opportunity. We’re also joined by Zahira, a 17-year-old student participant, sharing her firsthand experience. Stay with us.
📅 Event Details – Brighter Futures Awards
• Event: 34th Annual “My City, My Place” Brighter Futures Awards
• Date: Friday, May 15, 2026
• Time: 9:00 AM (Vendors & Program) | 12:00 PM (Awards Ceremony)
• Location: Live! Hotel Philadelphia, 900 Packer Avenue
• Details: Honors individuals outside provider agencies who have made a meaningful impact supporting people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism
• Nominations: Now being accepted
• Info/Tickets: 215-685-4680 | IDS.PublicAwareness@phila.gov
🌐 Learn More & Get Involved DBHIDS (Brighter Futures Awards):
• Website: dbhids.org
• Instagram: @dbhids
• Facebook: Philadelphia Dept. of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services
• LinkedIn: Philadelphia Dept. of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services

 Women of the Dream:
• Website: https://womenofthedream.org
• Instagram: @womenofthedream
• Facebook: Women of the Dream
• LinkedIn: Women of the Dream
• Email: leslie.morris@womenofthedream.org
 ✨ Women of the Dream is currently seeking mentors, facilitators, STEM presenters, and volunteers—an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young women in underserved communities.  

April is Earth Month, and on this episode of Insight, we’re celebrating the beauty, impact, and future of Philadelphia’s incredible park system. Joining us is Tony Sorrentino of the Fairmount Park Conservancy to talk about how the Conservancy helps care for more than 10,000 acres of public green space across the city—and how you can be part of it. From free Earth Month events to hands-on volunteer opportunities, there are so many ways to get involved this spring. The Conservancy is also leading a major effort to plant more than 800 trees, helping improve air quality, expand the tree canopy, and strengthen neighborhoods across Philadelphia. Looking ahead, Love Your Park Week offers even more ways to connect, with volunteer projects and events happening in more than 100 parks citywide.
🌐 Learn more: myphillypark.org
📸 Instagram: @myphillypark
📘 Facebook: @myphillypark
🔗 LinkedIn: @myphillypark
🌳 Love Your Park Week registration: loveyourpark.org
Then, we take a beautiful journey where art and nature come together at Grounds For Sculpture. We’re joined by Janis Napoli and Grace Yasumura to talk about stunning seasonal blooms, immersive landscapes, and dynamic exhibitions that evolve throughout the year. Don’t miss:

• “Opening the Vault: A Look Inside the GFS Collection” – opening May 17, 2026
• Outdoor installation: “Ruins of Empire II” by Kiyan Williams
• “Shantell Martin: Past, Present, Future” – opening September 20, 2026

Plan your visit: groundsforsculpture.org
Follow: @groundsforsculpture on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn
And, we’re sharing powerful stories of courage—moments when ordinary people stepped beyond fear, crossed lines of difference, and chose compassion. This is Where Courage Lives: Moments That Bring Us Together.