Best AJC Radio Podcasts (2025)

1
United Way of Greater Atlanta on improving access to services, economic mobility; The Southern Shmooze connecting consumers to local businesses 49:59

22h ago49:59

49:59

2025 marks 120 years for United Way of Greater Atlanta. Milton J. Little, Jr., president and CEO of UWGA, discusses their long-standing mission, their resiliency, and their ongoing efforts to improve economic mobility across 13 metro counties by providing access to services and resources. Plus, Grant Wallace, known for his lawncare and glass recycl…

1
Coffee Conversations: Supporting Georgia’s agricultural ecosystem 56:16

1d ago56:16

56:16

Agriculture is the oldest and number 1 industry in Georgia. Its economic impact is more than $74 billion every year, employing more than 399,000 Georgians. For the May installment of “Coffee Conversations”, the “Closer Look” team headed to Community Grounds Coffee Shop. The conversation focused on Georgia’s agriculture industry, exploring what’s th…

1
Analyzing Trump’s favorability in Georgia & the 2026 governor’s race; 60 Minutes Correspondent Scott Pelley on the work of a free press 51:28

6d ago51:28

51:28

The 2026 gubernatorial race is taking shape with confirmed and potential candidates. Rose talks with Atlanta-based political strategist and analyst Fred Hicks about who we could see on the campaign trail. He also shares his thoughts about President Donald Trump’s low approval rating in Georgia. Plus, Wednesday marks 100 days into President Donald T…

1
Black families on the challenges in navigating autism 49:13

3d ago49:13

49:13

April marks National Autism Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest data, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. Rose talks with Georgia Tech associate professor Jennifer Singh. She discusses autism symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment while highlighting inequitie…

1
Interfaith organization inspires faith communities on climate advocacy & justice; East Point-based Mākhers Studio transforms shipping containers into sustainable housing solutions 50:11

8d ago50:11

50:11

Georgia Interfaith Power & Light (GIPL) is an organization that aims to empower people of faith to engage in issues such as environmental injustices, pollution, climate change and more. Marqus Cole, who serves as the organizing director for GIPL, talks more about the organization’s work and impact. He also shares his thoughts about how faith inters…

1
Prom celebrates Cobb County's 'rockstars'; Chelsea Gardens residents evicted after complaints about now-condemned property 46:39

11d ago46:39

46:39

Residents spoke out about the poor conditions of the Chelsea Gardens apartments in College Park. Now, they must find a new place to live. The City of College Park has reportedly condemned the complex due to its deplorable state, giving residents short notice to move. Shakira Fortson with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, outgoing resident And…

1
Summit aims to spread awareness about how art can be used to process grief 56:12

12d ago56:12

56:12

The Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University is hosting the Arts and Wellbeing Summit: Artistic Expression and Processing Grief on April 25-26. Rose talks with Katie Ericson-Baskin, the Ingram director of education at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, and Laney Castle, an administrative coordinator for the education department at the Michael C. Car…

1
Energy justice advocate on the benefits of an energy audit; Mozley Park residents push for noise barriers between their homes and I-20 50:17

13d ago50:17

50:17

An energy audit can help new homeowners save money — not just through energy efficiency but with tax credits and more. However, an energy audit is not a required step in the homebuying process. Data also reveals that low-income households spend a larger share of their income on energy costs when compared to other households and that Georgia ranks i…

1
What to expect at the 56th AJC Peachtree Road Race; Local nonprofit uses equine-assisted therapy to foster healing 50:20

14d ago50:20

50:20

This year marks the 56th Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race. Rich Kenah, who serves as the race director and the CEO of the Atlanta Track Club, returns to “Closer Look” to talk more about this year's expanded race experience, which includes the return of a cherished tradition. Plus, Flying Change Equine Therapy fosters emotional heali…

1
Youth mental health and family support program expanding to more Georgia counties; Morehouse College to posthumously honor 1930’s lynching victim 50:28

15d ago50:28

50:28

Youth Villages is expanding its family support, mental and behavioral health services to reach more Georgia communities. The Intercept program is beginning in Rockdale, Douglas, and Paulding Counties. Tanya Anderson, the executive director of Youth Villages Georgia, and Jameta Wheeler, the state manager for In-Home Services at Youth Villages, talk …

1
Sustainable Georgia Futures spreads awareness about the harms of climate gentrification on Atlanta’s BIPOC communities; Wylde Center cultivates community and nature in Edgewood 50:28

19d ago50:28

50:28

On today’s special edition of "Closer Look," Rose and the team take listeners out into the community. First, we begin with a climate gentrification tour in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Rose talks with Adrienne Rice, the executive director of Sustainable Georgia Futures, about the nonprofit’s mission to help specific communities grow and …

1
“Closer Look” roundtable: How should Atlanta respond to this social & economic moment? 49:24

20d ago49:24

49:24

President Donald Trump’s 100-day mark for his second term is fast approaching. Since taking office, the Trump administration has already taken several executive actions on education, immigration and more. Today’s special edition of “Closer Look” focused on the potential economic and social challenges the Atlanta region could face within the next fo…

1
New book explores how Black Americans can close wealth gap through social and economic power 50:22

21d ago50:22

50:22

Beyond democratic freedoms, what factors into how Black Americans thrive socially and economically? It’s a theme that’s explored in the new book, “BLACK POWER SCORECARD: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It.” The book’s author, Professor Andre M. Perry is a nationally recognized expert on race, structural inequality, economic inc…

1
Appen Media and Decaturish.com buck trend by launching new print publication: Housing scholar Richard Rothstein examines the Trump administration’s proposed housing policies 49:54

22d ago49:54

49:54

Georgia-based Appen Media and Decaturish.com have launched a new print edition, Decaturish Ink. Dan Whisenhunt, the founder and editor of the online community news outlet, talked more about the new print component. He also shared details about the publication’s goals of providing deeper, more narrative-driven content that seeks to capture the spiri…

1
Former CDC employees express concern about mass layoffs, fate of health research 50:29

26d ago50:29

50:29

On today’s special edition of Closer Look with Rose Scott, we’re joined by a roundtable of former employees of the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since taking office for a second time, the Trump Administration has reportedly committed to cutting 10,000 federal employees from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service…

1
Organizers on Atlanta Hands Off! Protest; Bravest ATL calls for Atlanta Braves Name Change 50:37

27d ago50:37

50:37

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott: Over the weekend, a reported 3 million people in the U.S., and even some abroad, joined more than 1,200 demonstrations to protest the Trump administration’s wave of executive orders and other policies. Organizers for the Atlanta Hands Off! protest, Laura Judge, a communications official with Hands Off! and In…

1
Recap of 2025 Georgia legislative session 51:58

27d ago51:58

51:58

The 2025 Georgia legislative session has come to an end. Hundreds of debated bills await Governor Brian Kemp’s signature, while many more missed out on a vote. That includes a stack of controversial Senate priorities that went unpassed by the House. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to ‘Closer Look,’ to discuss the state bu…

1
Moral Leadership: Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy 57 years after his assassination 50:42

1M ago50:42

50:42

On this day, 57 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated while standing on the balcony of his motel room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Friday’s special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott" focuses on the life and legacy of King, specifically his efforts to lead with courage and integrity and to inspire others to be …

1
GA legislative session nears an end; NACCP launches Black Consumer Advisory; Journalist examines how AI can discriminate in job hiring process 50:04

1M ago50:04

50:04

Sine Dine is fast approaching as the 2025 Georgia legislative session nears an end. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to ‘Closer Look,’ to discuss the status of some of the most talked about bills. Plus, with more corporations turning away from diversity, equity and inclusion programs, the NAACP is empowering Black consumer…

1
Mableton Mayor on top priorities for the new city; Veterans respond to Trump administration’s plans for VA cuts; Soul singer Marvin Gaye’s story the focus of a new musical production 51:28

1M ago51:28

51:28

Mableton Mayor Michael Owens is approaching the two-year mark into his term as leader of the largest city in Cobb County. Mayor Owens returns to “Closer Look,” to talk more about how the relatively new city is fairing and his top priorities. He also shares details about how city leaders are addressing urban development, affordable housing, educatio…

1
Atlanta’s new interim inspector general talks top priorities 50:48

1M ago50:48

50:48

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens recently appointed Judge LaDawn Blackett to be Atlanta's interim inspector general. Her appointment comes in the aftermath of Shannon Manigault’s resignation over alleged interference and harassment. Interim IG Blackett joins “Closer Look” to discuss leading the OIG and her top priorities while assigned to lead the offic…

1
Night of Ideas: Is Atlanta common ground for its diverse communities? 52:02

1M ago52:02

52:02

Night of Ideas Atlanta is an annual event that fosters late-night discussions geared toward addressing specific global issues. This year, WABE partnered with Villa Albertine, the Goat Farm Arts Center and Night of Ideas Atlanta to host the event, which featured live music, art and several panel discussions. The theme of this year’s program, which t…

1
Coffee Conversations: Next-Gen philanthropy 55:24

1M ago55:24

55:24

According to the latest data from Giving USA, charitable giving reached $557.16 billion in the U.S. in 2023. As the philanthropic landscape continues to evolve, younger generations of Americans will soon be the beneficiaries of what is called the “Great Wealth Transfer.” This will position Gen X, millennials and Gen Z at the forefront of our nation…

1
New book seeks to break down the barriers of capitalism; Piloting the Journey: Ayoka Chenzira 50:04

1M ago50:04

50:04

The book, "It’s Not You, It’s Capitalism," explores the economic challenges Gen Z and millennials are facing in the current economy while offering up possible solutions from labor leaders, economists and more. Author Malaika Jabali, who is an attorney, activist, and the senior news and politics editor at Essence Magazine, talks about the inspiratio…

1
The "hidden homeless" of Atlanta; Legacy of Black woman labor activist detailed in new book 50:51

1M ago50:51

50:51

The new book, "There Is No Place For Us" features the stories of five Atlanta families struggling to find and keep safe, stable housing. These working families represent the country's "hidden homeless," people who sleep in cars or extended-stay motels but aren't tracked by government homelessness counts. Atlanta-based journalist Brian Goldstone, wh…

1
New book reveals how “forced apprenticeships” re-enslaved emancipated Black children; Piloting the Journey: GA State Sen. Nan Orrock 49:56

1M ago49:56

49:56

The new book, "Slavery After Slavery" reveals how some landowners in the South used “forced apprenticeships” re-enslave emancipated Black children. The court system supported a majority of these “forced apprenticeships,” resulting in many children being separated from their families in the years following the Emancipation Proclamation. Dr. Mary Fra…

1
Feedback Friday: Listeners share spending habits as prices for goods and services rise 51:14

2M ago51:14

51:14

Gallup polling shows the economy was the top issue for voters in the 2024 presidential election, and President Trump ran on a promise to immediately lower prices. Now, two months into his second term, Trump’s push for tariffs is raising recession concerns for some economists. Amid the economic uncertainty, consumers are witnessing rising costs for …

1
How companies are using AI in hiring process; B.E.S.T. Academy talks winning first basketball championship 49:41

2M ago49:41

49:41

Data suggest 68% of all companies will use AI in the hiring process by the end of 2025. Today, we begin a two-part series looking at the benefits and the harm of using AI in the job hiring process. Many companies are using AI to review resumes, reject candidates without human input or oversight, and even conduct entire interviews. Dan Beck is the p…

1
Hotel tax exemption causes economic concerns for Hapeville; Issues impacting Black transpeople the focus of two local organizations; Piloting the Journey: Ingrid Saunders Jones 47:32

2M ago47:32

47:32

Companies like Delta Air Lines are legally exempt from paying hotel/motel tax for their bookings that are more than 30 days. Hapeville Mayor Alan Hallman explains why this is a major concern for his city and why he supports the passage of House Bill 492. International Transgender Day of Visibility will be recognized on March 31. The day is used to …

1
Refugee resettlement disrupted in Georgia following Trump’s executive action; Georgia Equality critical of multiple “anti-LGBTQ bills” 49:43

2M ago49:43

49:43

President Trump recently signed an executive order to suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and resettlement funding. However, a federal judge has blocked Trump's actions — calling it an overreach. For a roundtable discussion, “Closer Look” is joined by Reverend John R. Moeller Jr., the president and CEO of Inspiritus, Aimee Zangandou, the ex…

1
Feedback Friday: ‘Closer Look’ callers discuss states shouldering responsibilities of DOE 50:16

2M ago50:16

50:16

This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced it was firing nearly 50% of its workforce. This all comes on the heels of President Trump’s ongoing efforts to eliminate the DOE and give its responsibilities to the states. On today’s Feedback Friday edition of “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott asked listeners this question: Do you have faith…

1
Analysis of the Courts’ legal response to Trump’s executive actions; Impact of DOE funding cuts on The Scholarship Academy 49:48

2M ago49:48

49:48

President Donald Trump is just over 50 days into his second term. In a matter of weeks, he has signed a flurry of executive actions that have spurred confusion, led to layoffs and even prompted lawsuits. Eric Segall, the Ashe Family Chair professor of law at Georgia State University, provides an analysis of some pending lawsuits and court rulings. …

1
Lawyer shares the risks of involving AI with health insurance claim processing; Piloting the Journey: State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver 51:12

2M ago51:12

51:12

Today, we continue our series focusing on AI and insurance claims. It’s been reported that several health insurance companies are under scrutiny for using AI to allegedly deny mass amounts of claims. The California-based Clarkson Law Firm is now leading class action lawsuits against three major insurance companies. Glenn Danas, a partner at Clarkso…

1
How AI is impacting health insurance claims; Trump actions confuse college government classes 51:30

2M ago51:30

51:30

Several health insurance companies are accused of using artificial intelligence to reject a massive number of claims - some as quick as 1.2 seconds. Today, we begin a two-day series focusing on A.I. and insurance claims. We hear from Rick Gundling, the senior vice president of professional practice with the Healthcare Financial Management Associati…

1
Recap of Georgia’s Crossover Day; Protecting yourself from measles amid confirmed outbreaks 50:26

2M ago50:26

50:26

Several bills crossed between the Georgia House and Senate following Crossover Day last week, while others were stalled. WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on the bills that are one step closer to becoming law and to discuss the latest news happening at the Georgia State Capitol. According to the Center…

1
Crossover Day at GA Capitol; Propel ATL reports “traffic violence”; 60 years since Bloody Sunday 50:00

2M ago50:00

50:00

It’s Crossover Day at the Georgia State Capitol. First, WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on the state’s budget and hurricane relief. He also discusses legislation that has caught the most attention and concern, including measures that would change how the state school superintendent is selected, onlin…

1
New Brookings commentary explores why Atlanta is not a model for police reform: Piloting the Journey: Elisabeth Omilami 48:41

2M ago48:41

48:41

In a new Brookings Institute commentary, experts explain why they believe Atlanta is not the blueprint for public safety reform. Through their analysis, they make the comparison to policing in Baltimore and St. Louis to highlight what does and doesn’t work, particularly following the creation of the heavily protested Atlanta Public Safety Training …

1
Report: Unmarked cameras spotted near homes of ‘Cop City’ opponents; Piloting the Journey: Former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin 50:38

2M ago50:38

50:38

According to an article published by The Guardian, unmarked boxes on utility poles that contain cameras are appearing around Atlanta. The cameras appear to be installed outside the homes of people who oppose the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, also known as 'Cop City.' Timothy Pratt, an Atlanta area-based reporter talks more about his invest…

1
South Fulton councilwoman launches bid for mayor; Mother pushes for change after son was “unjustly expelled; New report investigates the shortfalls of Georgia Pathways to Coverage 49:36

2M ago49:36

49:36

Councilwoman Carmalitha L. Gumbs currently represents the City of South Fulton’s District 2. She joins “Closer Look” to discuss her decision to run against incumbent Mayor Khalid Kamau for the city’s top seat. In 2023, Zaire Byrd says he was “unjustly expelled” from Tri-Cities High School in Fulton County. According to Byrd, it was due to a first-t…

1
Coffee Conversations: Community solutions to closing childhood literacy gap 54:15

2M ago54:15

54:15

Across the nation and right here in Georgia, educators are working to address lingering learning gaps that predate the pandemic. Those literacy gaps are especially concerning among Atlanta’s Black and Brown students. According to a 2024 report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, 21% of local Black third graders and 34% of local Latino third graders r…

1
Transit advocates debate future of light rail on the Beltline; Forest Park, GA Mayor on city’s $23.46 minimum wage 50:58

2M ago50:58

50:58

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens delivered the 2025 State of the City Address on Tuesday night. During his address, Dickens stressed the importance of connecting neighborhoods. Among his points, the mayor briefly mentioned that in less than 18 months, people will be able to take trails from the Beltline to the Chattahoochee River. However, people, both …

1
DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha Ramos explains abrupt departure 50:48

2M ago50:48

50:48

After a little more than five years job, DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha Ramos is stepping down. The announcement of Chief Ramos’ decision to step down comes as DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s office recently unveiled a new police retention and recruitment initiative. Ramos returns to “Closer Look,” to reflect on her tenure and to ta…

1
New learning portal makes civil and human rights history more accessible; 579 Atlantans receive e-bike rebates through city program 49:19

2M ago49:19

49:19

Amid ongoing nationwide efforts to put restrictions on teaching specific segments of American history, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights has launched a free learning portal to expand access. It aids teachers and parents in bringing a complete history about civil and human rights to students. Nicole Moore, who serves as the director of …

1
Doctor champions early literacy to improve pediatric health 50:53

2M ago50:53

50:53

Dr. Terri McFadden is a pediatrician at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding and a professor of pediatrics at Emory University. She earned her nickname, Georgia’s ‘Godmother of Literacy,' by promoting childhood literacy to improve pediatric health and development. McFadden does this work as a medical director at Reach Out and Read Ge…

1
Should AI be incorporated in journalism?; Local manufacturer uses shipping containers to address housing crisis 50:46

3M ago50:46

50:46

Artificial intelligence is becoming ingrained in many industries. This includes its increasing use among some news outlets. However, is there an ethical dilemma around transparency, cultural biases and potential job displacement? Laura Downey, the president of the Society of Professional Journalists Georgia, Dan Whisenhunt, the editor and founder o…

1
Nonprofit urges governments to pursue equitable climate change policies; Atlanta’s Canadian consul general addresses U.S.-Canada trade dispute 50:13

3M ago50:13

50:13

With a change in presidential administrations comes a change in priorities when it comes to climate change. With his second term in office, President Trump has once again withdrawn the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. At the same time, Atlanta-based Greenlink Analytics is working with local and state governments to create policies and programs addres…

1
Atlanta’s first-ever inspector general resigns, citing bullying and intimidation 50:42

3M ago50:42

50:42

On today's edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we bring you an exclusive interview with the now outgoing Inspector General for the City of Atlanta. This follows our series of interviews with Shannon Manigault about the challenges she says have emerged while investigating alleged corruption, abuse and fraud within city government. During a pre…

1
A recap of week 5 of Georgia’s legislative session; Documentary focuses on the 1898 Wilmington massacre 51:15

3M ago51:15

51:15

WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on the latest news from the Gold Dome, including a variety of proposed bills involving transgender athletes, Gov. Kemp’s civil litigation reform package, gun safety and Medicaid expansion. Plus, WABE, in partnership with the Atlanta History Center and the National Ce…

1
Book explores HBCUs role in shaping American democracy; Improv program helping caregivers of memory loss patients 51:05

3M ago51:05

51:05

Deondra Rose is an associate professor of political science and history who serves as the Kevin D. Gorter Associate Professor at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University. She joins “Closer Look” to discuss her latest book, "The Power of Black Excellence: HBCUs and the Fight for American Democracy." The book explores the history of HBC…

1
What “tort reform” could mean for Georgians; Local educator creates virtual learning pod for kids; Atlanta Councilwoman reimagines Greenbriar Mall 49:13

3M ago49:13

49:13

Governor Brian Kemp says big payouts from civil litigation is a major issue facing the state. Today, the first legislative hearing is being held on Governor Kemp’s “tort reform” package, which are being considered in SB 68 and SB 69. Georgia State University Law Professor Leslie Wolf and Elizabeth Chamblee Burch, with the University of Georgia Scho…

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