What do you really know about Philadelphia?
Do you know Philly is a city of soul? This is where Gamble met Huff, where Jill Scott was a burgeoning new poet, and where Black Thought met Questlove in their high school principal’s office, while Boyz II Men might’ve been singing down the hall.
Do you know Philly is a city of limitless innovation? Here, two Forbes 30 Under 30 alums can enable creatives to live out their dreams. Here, a young brotha can tap his Jamaican heritage and love of healthy living to create delicious kombucha. In Philly, a sista can grow her love of reading from a bookstore into a movement.
Do you know Philly is a city of tastebud dreams? Some of the most applauded chefs in the world — Top Chefs, Iron Chefs, James Beard Award-winning chefs — call this city home and can be found cooking in kitchens ranging from food trucks to fancy spots.
If you don’t know about Philly, it’s definitely time for you to listen to Love + Grit.
This Philadelphia podcast celebrates all of the dope things about Philadelphia you should know. We promise you’ll discover so much about the love and the grit that drives Philadelphians to greatness — and will drive you to come visit us.
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Check out the most recent episode of Love + Grit right here.
Terrill Haigler and Jena Harris are two people who are all about love and grit. Born out of the 2020 pandemic, the West Philly Bunny Hop is a food pantry created by Harris that now feeds more than 350 families each week. Next up is Haigler, known as Ya Fav Trashman on social media. He talks about how starting a job as a sanitation worker inspired his activism and raising awareness for the sanitation industry. The fundraiser he led to purchase PPE, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies for sanitation workers soon turned into Trash2Treasure, a non-profit whose mission is to clean Philadelphia block by block.
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Love + Grit: two words that define the spirit of Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection is all about the love — but it’s the grit of this city’s residents that propels them to places they might’ve thought were beyond the realm of possibility. This podcast explores some of Philadelphia’s best-kept secrets and the locals repping Philly love on a national scale. Love + Grit provides the stage for authentic and diverse stories of the city to inspire all people — travelers and locals alike — to visit (or re-visit) the region.
The podcast and its hosts continue to give listeners an insider’s look at the fascinating Philadelphians people should know, the award-winning foods they should try and the critically acclaimed attractions they should explore.
Love + Grit is hosted by Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi, with music by local producer and DJ Dan “Dilemma” Thomas.
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Love + Grit tells the insider’s story of our city; not only is it a beautiful, historic destination, but there are dozens of institutions, attractions and museums that give real reasons to visit.
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Blew Kind and Dr. Sheena Howard are taking a creative approach to inspiring the next generation of activists in Philadelphia and beyond. Kind is the founder of Kensignton-based Franny Lou’s Porch, named after Fannie Lou Hamer and Frances E.W. Harper, two influential black women from the Civil Rights movement. The Afro-centric cafe is focused on activism, health, history, art and culture in the Black community. Next up is Howard, an award-winning author and professor at Rider University. She uses her passion for comic books and social justice to discuss representation in this space in her newly released book, “Why Wakanda Matters: What Black Panther Reveals About Psychology, Identity, and Communication.”
Love + Grit Season 3 kicks off with an all star reunion featuring Jeannine A. Cook, Chef Omar Tate and Cybille St. Aude-Tate who continue to amplify their visions and make Black history as they do. First, Cook discusses growing Harriett’s Bookshop nationwide, a visit from Will Smith, calls from Oprah and a vow of silence. Then, we catch up with TIME100 Next’s Chef Omar Tate and his wife Cybille, founders of Honeysuckle Projects. The husband-and-wife duo are set to open their first brick-and-mortar this spring.
Dr. Janice Johnson Dias and Ellen Yin have been sources of inspiration for women and girls, giving them spaces to grow and develop their skills to succeed in the face of adversity. Johnson Dias, the mother of the 16-year-old activist and writer Marley Dias, talks about her new book “Parent Like It Matters: How to Raise Joyful, Change-Making Girls.” Wharton graduate, Ellen Yin, who owns High Street Hospitality Group, is one of the leading forces behind the Sisterly Love Collective (an alliance of women restaurateurs and food entrepreneurs responsible for the Sisterly Love Food Fair). Her most recent ghost kitchen concept, The Wonton Project is inspired by a family recipe and benefits local non-profits combating social issues close to her heart.
On this week’s episode, we talk to PHILADANCO’s Dr. Joan Myers Brown, a true dance pioneer. After founding the Philadelphia Dance Company in 1970, she went on to create the International Association of Blacks in Dance and the International Conference of Black Dance Companies. As she steps down (but not away) from her role at PHILADANCO, she reflects on her achievements and the impact she has made on the dance community globally. Also on the show: Ben “BoxWon” Barnes-McGee, who will take break dancing to the 2024 Olympics for the first time ever with the help of the World Dance Sport Federation’s Breaking for Gold USA. This West Philadelphia native is a four-time world champion b-boy and founder of a Bred2Burn, a hip-hop dance education and development mentorship program.
— Photo courtesy Khalil Munir / Photo by Tricia Pompilio
Khalil Munir is a performer, educator and author who has defied the odds and equips his students with the tools to do the same. His first book, The Crown is Yours, is inspired by the challenges he faced growing up with dyslexia, a disorder he turned into “his superpower.” Also on this episode is Natalie Pompilio, talking about her new book, This USED to be Philadelphia. A former reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer and the Daily News, Pompilio has harnessed her Philly knowledge to write several books, and her newest is sure to open your eyes to the city’s best-kept secrets.
— Photo courtesy Trey Brown / Photo courtesy Mz. Icar
This episode features 15-year-old — yes 15-year-old —Trey Brown. The founder of SPERGO, a trendsetting streetwear and lifestyle brand, turned his passion for design and community into a six-figure company in only three years. One of the most sought-after youth speakers in the country, Brown has been featured on a billboard in Times Square, opened up two stores, received a key to the city and just received a deal on ABC’s Shark Tank. Also on this episode is Mz. Icar, the woman behind a dope (and anonymous) art collective creating works that celebrate women, global Blackness and play. Comprised primarily of Black women artists specializing in different media, this collective’s work has been recognized by the art community’s most elite and is part of the Love + Grit Storefronts Project.
When it comes to visual arts in Philadelphia, Michelle Angela Ortiz is a local legend. Her work has been presented in all forms — on canvas, lightboxes, building walls and now TV screens with her first documentary, “Las Madres de Berks.” The New York Times recently shouted out the Moore College of Art grad with South Philly roots for her work in the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s New Grit exhibition. Also featured in The New York Times and on this episode of the podcast is Kensington-born Roberto Lugo, known as “The Ghetto Potter.” Roberto is reinventing the idea of fine China and will install a mural in honor of The Roots’ Black Thought on the Clay Studio building opening in Olde Kensington in spring 2022.
— Photos courtesy of Mural City Cellars / Jennifer Zavala
Jennifer Zavala kicked off Philadelphia’s birria taco craze with a graffiti truck and a pop-up shop at Underground Arts. Tune in to hear from the South Philly-based owner of Juana Tamale as she prepares for her brick-and-mortar opening later this year on Passyunk Ave. In Kensington, Nicholas Ducos and Francesca Galarus have opened the city’s first independently owned urban winery with the goal of making wine more affordable and accessible. Hear about how Nicholas’ sommelier skills and Francesca’s eye for arts and love of community has helped Mural City Cellars bloom into a welcoming destination for good wine and chill vibes.
— Photo courtesy Love City Brewing / Photo courtesy Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises (HACE)
Contributing to Philadelphia’s business community is a conscious effort for the two women featured on this episode. Tess Hart brought her mission to life in the Spring Arts District when she co-founded Triple Bottom Brewing, dedicated to putting people, the planet and profit on equal footing. In Centro de Oro’s Business District, Maria N. Gonzalez manages a $100 million budget for commercial and housing development. As president of the Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises (HACE), she’s charged with making sure the district’s Good Lands 2025 plan, aimed at providing a road map for the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhoods, is executed.
— Photo by B. Morillo for WHYY / Photo by Visit Philadelphia
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a salsa song dedicated to Philly’s Latinx neighborhoods and a sip of the city’s first Latinx-distilled whiskey. Strivers’ Row Distillery, based in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood, is owned and operated by Brooklyn ex-pat and the Al Día 40-Under-40-nominated Francisco Garcia. Also on the episode: Alba Martínez, who after a 12-year run at a top financial firm and 23 years dedicated to law, human services and government, is ready to use her expertise to fuel two of her passions: the financial wellness of women and minorities and Latinx arts. Her new salsa song “La Gua Gua 47” pays homage to SEPTA’s 47 bus route.
David and Aaron Cabello were delivering for Uber Eats and Caviar in Center City when they saw a hole in the market. They created Black and Mobile and became the first delivery service based in Philadelphia to partner with and highlight Black-owned businesses. Live music is back and the Vice President of Business Development and Operations at Live Nation Urban, Brandon Pankey, is working to build the industry back in the most inclusive way. From his Meet the Execs series on BlackStream Live to launching his own network, APEX, and not to mention producing Philly’s favorite picnic (yes — The Roots one), Brandon is on a mission and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
This episode’s guests are two women inspired by their children to build thriving Philadelphia businesses. Charisse McGill combined her farmers market expertise and inspiration from her daughter to launch Lokal Artisan Foods. As the first Black woman to vend at Spruce Street Harbor Park and the first Black woman in Pennsylvania with her own craft beer, she’s just getting started. When Tina Dixon Spence could not find a baby store that matched her son’s burgeoning style, she created Buddha Babe, a luxury design studio focusing on accessories for babies, toddlers and the home (and kids parties). She fearlessly launched her Mt. Airy brick-and-mortar amidst a pandemic and aims to make the shop a staple in neighborhoods across the city.
The BlackStar Film Festival, also known as “Black Sundance,” is the nation’s premier fest for Black, Brown and Indigenous filmmakers. And it’s centered in Philly! On this episode of Love + Grit, hear from local directors screening their work at the 2021 festival. West Philly neighbors and respected filmmakers Raishad M. Hardnett and Aidan M. Un teamed up to produce a short film about Harriett’s Bookshop in Fishtown for the 10th annual festival’s “Stories in Place” series about small businesses. And Nasya Jenkins discusses her short documentary From Digital Divide to Digital Equity about Philly activists leading the fight for digital equity in education.
You can’t talk about Philly’s hip-hop scene without mentioning Lady B and Bri Steves. These two women are essential to the city’s place in the music industry. One of the first female rappers, Lady B recorded her first single, To the Beat, Y’all, in 1979. The “Godmother of Hip-Hop” has been blazing trails ever since as a performer, DJ and podcaster, paving the way for stars like Bri Steves. At just 26, East Falls native and Temple University grad Steves has already opened for H.E.R., Mary J. Blige, Pharrell and Kendrick Lamar, and landed a BET nomination for her song ANTI QUEEN. Her debut album drops July 30, 2021.
Ask anyone to name the most iconic Philadelphians and Questlove is at the top of the list. The West Philly native is the drummer for The Roots and musical director of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon; cofounder of digital music and media platforms Okayplayer and OkayAfrica; a James Beard Award-nominated cookbook author; plant-based cheesesteak maker and more. He joins Love + Grit to talk about his career, health and his latest project, Summer of Soul, debuting in theaters and on Hulu on July 2, 2021. With the new film comes a new look: A dramatic weight loss that Questlove attributes in part to better sleeping and breathing. Tune in for a rare discussion of the music icon’s deeply personal journey.
As the birthplace of a new nation, Philadelphia sees independence not just as a single day, but a full season that bridges the celebrations of Juneteenth and July 4th. The guests on this episode of Love + Grit have devoted their careers to centering the stories of African Americans and the African Diaspora. Ivan Henderson is the vice president of programming at The African American Museum in Philadelphia who has curated Juneteenth events that will join the City of Philadelphia’s 2021 celebration of freedom and liberty. Kamau Ware brings the Black Gotham multimedia project to Philly, joining a series of walking tours, events and art collections that aim to celebrate the history and culture of African American and Black communities in Philadelphia.
Philly’s music scene is one of love, authenticity and community, with people like Kenny Gamble, Dyana Williams and Patti LaBelle supporting and producing unforgettable beats created in the City of Brotherly Love. Today’s hitmakers keep it real. West Philly’s Beano French and North Philadelphia’s Brianna Castro join the Love + Grit hosts in this episode to talk about their burgeoning music careers as Philly — and the nation — celebrates Black Music Month. Both artists are part of the Love + Grit Concert Series Presented by VISIT PHILADELPHIA®, an original series streamed exclusively on BlackStream Live, a new Twitch channel delivering curated live programming focused on Black culture, premiering June 1, 2021.
Two inspiring creators representing Latinx communities join this episode of Love + Grit to discuss their work, their influences and the challenges of turning major artistic experiences into virtual events. Nayara Lopes got her start in Brazil before eventually moving to Philadelphia to join the Pennsylvania Ballet, where the first soloist has starred in The Nutcracker and Cinderella, and is currently filming a new season of original performances for digital audiences. Also going virtual this year: the 10th annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, led by Marángeli Mejía Rabell. The Puerto Rican-born arts and culture organizer and cofounder of AFROTAINO has turned PHLAFF into an international event that elevates U.S.-based Latinx and Latin American stories.
Dine Latino Restaurant Week is a way for Philadelphia — and all who visit — to support the growth of local businesses and taste the flavors of Colombian, Mexican, Dominican and other cultures. More than 20 restaurants offer deals for the spring 2021 edition of Restaurant Week, and the guests on this episode have dedicated their careers to supporting the work of Philadelphia’s Latinx communities and food businesses. Jennifer Rodríguez, President & CEO of Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shares details of the many incredible restaurants serving authentic Latin flavors and discusses her work advocating for the 22,000 Latinx-owned business in the Greater Philadelphia region. One of those restaurants is Sazon, Chef Judy Suzarra-Campbell’s Venezuelan spot that makes amazing arepas as part of an almost entirely gluten-free menu.
Poet, recording artist and native Philadelphian Ursula Rucker has created a legacy for herself in print, in the studio and even in augmented reality. Whether she’s leading vocals for DJ King Britt, collaborating with The Roots or releasing her own book of haikus, Rucker is always advancing the city’s arts and culture scene. She’s now the virtual reality host of OverTime, an augmented reality app from public art and history studio Monument Lab, which allows users to tour portions of Philadelphia using just their phones. On the musical side of things, Orrin Evans continues to make Philly proud. The City of Brotherly Love-raised jazz pianist has more than 25 albums to his credit, his own record label and a focus on helping young, innovative musicians. Any Philly music history lesson is incomplete without Rucker and Evans.
If there’s one thing you need to know about Philly’s food scene it’s that the space is full of people who use their culinary talents to give back. Look no further than Michael Carter and Muhammad Abdul-Hadi of Down North Pizza. Their North Philadelphia pizza-and-wings joint serves delicious, inventive pies and exclusively employs formerly incarcerated individuals as part of its mission to reduce recidivism rates in Black communities. Dustin Vitale also knows a thing or two about using food for good. The middle school history teacher turned his love of cheesesteaks into a Philly-wide effort to help his mom achieve something big. He chats with hosts Justin, Rachel and Laiya in this episode all about two things Philadelphia does best: food and community.
Debra Powell-Wright has a long history in Philadelphia of elevating Black, Brown and African-descended women’s voices. As the founder of the city’s first female spoken word ensemble, a published essayist and social justice artist, Powell-Wright is credited with building a sisterhood. She joins the Love + Grit hosts to talk about her career and her latest work, For Women: In Tribute to Nina Simone, a collection of short stories and poems. In keeping with the theme of community and healing, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin also welcome Kiki Aranita. The Poi Dog Philly founder brought local Hawaiian cooking to Philadelphia, but had to close her beloved restaurant in the face of COVID-19. She recounts her story about pivoting to ecommerce as a way to support herself and continue sharing her history.
On this episode of Love + Grit, meet two women making a monumental impact on the arts and education. Kimberly McGlonn’s sustainable clothing line and West Philadelphia storefront Grant Blvd sources reclaimed fabrics manufactured exclusively in Philadelphia and supports people who were previously incarcerated — one of the social issues the doctor of philosophy (and Jenkintown Borough council member!) is most passionate about. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin also welcome Dyymond Whipper-Young, a Temple University graduate and arts educator who most recently made national headlines for creating the biggest drawing in the world made by one person as part of the Crayola IDEAworks exhibit at The Franklin Institute. Hear more from these two inspiring guests making waves during Women’s History Month and beyond.
This episode kicks off with Hakim’s Bookstore owner Yvonne Blake and a discussion about community building. She runs the shop — one of the oldest African American bookstores in the country — that her father opened in West Philadelphia in 1959. Then, the hosts catch up with Will Toms and Dave Silver, two multi-talented Philadelphians making names for themselves and making space for Black creators. The pair, who made Forbes’ 2021 30 Under 30 list, founded studio/shop/production house/event space REC Philly to put the city’s creative economy into the hands of makers. Their grant-funded #BlackMusicCity project helps Black creators pursue their goals. Tune in to hear how these passionate Philadelphians are creating real, sustainable change by sharing knowledge and resources.
Season 2 of Love + Grit kicks off with love and positive energy. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome Tommy and Codie Elaine Oliver, the power couple behind Black Love Inc. After Philly native Tommy met Codie Elaine at a film festival, the two poured their passion for storytelling into a multimedia company and digital platform that’s worked with Viola Davis, Tia Mowry and other celebrities to tell dynamic stories of love that often go overlooked, including their Doula Dads series featuring Sterling K. Brown. The positive vibes continue with Crystal Streets, a jeweler and diamond concierge (and proud Central High School grad from Mt. Airy!) — who works with ethically sourced materials and healing crystals to make sure stars like Rihanna, Jay-Z and Mariah Carey look — and feel — stunning.
On this episode of Love + Grit, meet two of the women drawing the world’s attention to Philadelphia. Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon is racking up accolades for her South Philly restaurant, Kalaya Thai Kitchen. Most recently: a 2020 James Beard Award nomination for Best New Restaurant and Esquire’s Best Restaurant in America. Nok talks to hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin about what brought her to Philly, how business has changed during the pandemic and, of course, her delicious food. Next up, Delaware County-based film producer Jenifer Westphal (Athlete A, Knock Down the House, Won’t You Be My Neighbor) discusses helping women and nonbinary filmmakers of color and chats about her latest documentary, Maybe Next Year, which tells the story of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning season through the eyes of diehard fans.
Harriett’s Bookshop has been open less than a year, but owner Jeannine A. Cook has already turned the space into a community hub elevating and celebrating Black women’s voices. Her independent Fishtown bookstore is thriving — even though it opened just as COVID-19 safety precautions closed some Philadelphia storefronts — thanks to Cook’s focus on activism and empowerment. She joins hosts Laiya, Justin and Rachel on this episode of Love + Grit, along with author Cheldin Barlatt Rumer, CEO and host of Center City-based This is it TV, whose new book, Scream Your Dream: How to Build an Effective Personal Brand, helps readers leverage their personal experiences to develop an authentic, powerful voice.
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Philly chefs have a way of weaving their experiences into their culinary creations so the result is irresistible, unforgettable food. In this episode of Love + Grit, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome two talented people who’ve recently returned to the City of Brotherly Love with incredible stories and the food to match. Germantown native Chef Omar Tate (and Esquire’s 2020 Chef of the Year!) worked his way up from Philadelphia hotel kitchens to private chef life and even the Smithsonian before returning to his hometown, where he’s cooking up flavors of the Black experience and funding a community center. And Executive Chef Robert Watson, who entered the Philly service industry as a teen, flew back from Arizona to open Steak 48 on the Avenue of the Arts. But COVID-19 had other plans, so Watson found an interim gig — volunteering to help end hunger.
Philly brings it on the big screen and on the stage, and the guests on this episode of Love + Grit work behind the scenes to make it all happen, proving that the heart and soul of a travel destination are the people we meet. Shawn Finnie’s journey is an incredible example of our city’s resilience and grit. His career path brought him from Philly to experiencing homelessness in New York City to Los Angeles, where he now works for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, ensuring that diverse voices and backgrounds aren’t just represented, but also engaged and activated. And in Philly, Wilma Theater Managing Director Leigh Goldenberg — also the brains behind the annual Philly Theatre Week — joins the conversation to discuss efforts to increase diversity on local stages and expand the prestigious Barrymore Awards with honors for gender-inclusive performances.
Two Philadelphia powerhouses talk creativity and hospitality in this episode of Love + Grit. Hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin welcome YOWIE founder Shannon Maldonado to discuss how her background working with top fashion brands led to the development of her popular storefront, creative brand and design studio. While Maldonado keeps Philly stylish, Jezabel Careaga keeps the city fed. The entrepreneur and cook runs the beloved Jezabel’s Cafe in West Philadelphia, where she serves up traditional foods from her native Argentina and is hard at work establishing her new furniture studio. Tune in to hear these two talented women share their stories, and learn how their successes have helped Philadelphia shine.
Hospitality can change a neighborhood and nurture its culture. Just ask Valerie Safran and Marcie Turney, whose Safran Turney Hospitality has been part of the transformation of 13th Street in Philly’s Gayborhood, opening storefronts like Barbuzzo and Open House along the shopping and dining corridor. After catching up with the power duo, hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin chat with self-taught photographer and West Philadelphia native Antoino Johnson, whose new book, You Next: Reflections in Black Barber Shops, captures the sacred spaces where Black male identity is fostered.
This episode of Love + Grit is all about delicious beverages of the fermented variety — no surprise, since Philly is a city that takes beer seriously. Jamaar Julal of Philly-headquartered JamBrü kicks things off as he breaks down the mystery of kombucha — that delicious, trendy, good-for-you fermented tea. And hosts Laiya, Justin and Rachel also welcome Love City Brewing owners Kevin and Melissa Walter to discuss innovation and activism in the beer community, which has a deep history in Philadelphia. Tune in to hear how these Philadelphia beverage makers are adapting to the ever-evolving coronavirus world and welcoming visitors in search of a cold one.
Kenny Gamble is a true Philadelphia treasure. The “Sound of Philadelphia” he created with his partner Leon Huff put Philly on the music map, and almost 50 years and tons of gold and platinum albums later, Gamble continues his legacy by reinvesting in the South Philly community where he grew up. In this episode, hear how he has evolved his “Message in the Music” motto into a video podcast. Next up: Rob Wasserman has proudly helmed Rouge, Rittenhouse Square’s see-and-be-seen restaurant, for more than 20 years now, along with other neighborhood favorites Audrey Claire and Twenty Manning. With priorities of fine dining shifting as a result of COVID-19, Wasserman has been focused on supporting families in need of a healthy meal. Hear why the “We Are Philly” campaign is delivering for Philadelphians and so many others.
In this episode, our podcast hosts chat with two Philadelphians who are a cut above the rest: one cuts meat, the other cuts hair.
Since she founded Primal Supply Meats in 2016, Heather Marold Thomason has continually taken the business to new heights. She started by providing meats to notable Philly chefs. Now she supports more than a dozen regional farmers and a family-owned slaughterhouse, and runs neighborhood butcher shops inSouth Philly and Brewerytown.
People often ask, “Who’s the barber that’s the man in Philly?” The answer is Faheem Alexander, renowned for what he can do to both beards and heads. Just ask any of his big-name clients.
August 4, 2020
This week, our hosts chat with an actor (Nakia Dillard) and an MC (Chill Moody). First up: Nakia Dillard, who takes his role of Philadelphia actor very seriously. Dillard developed his acting chops here in the City of Brotherly Love, and though he’s appeared in at least 80 productions (including Black Lightning and The Wire), he has never left Philadelphia physically. Learn how and why he does it, and get the scoop on his favorite place to chill in Philly. Next up is arguably Philly’s hardest working MC: Chill Moody. The Philly music ambassador works hard for his hometown. His lyrical storytelling is deeply rooted in Philadelphia stories, and his community activism often offers opportunities to other burgeoning Philly talent. Hear why Moody is a Philly faithful, and find out what two flavors of water ice he mixes together. Listen to Episode
July 21, 2020
In this episode, our hosts talk to two dope Philly ladies: one who fills our bellies in all kinds of delicious ways and another who feeds our souls through the characters she plays. Philly foodies know Talula’s Table in Kennett Square, as well Talula’s Garden and Talula’s Daily in Philadelphia’s Washington Square neighborhood. That’s all thanks to West Chester’s own Aimee Olexy, who talks about how she brings the deliciousness to each one of these places. Next up: a conversation with a Lancaster-born, Philly-bred MC who is a Yale School of Drama graduate, recipient of the prestigious Princess Grace Award and Leonore Annenberg Fellowship for Performing Arts. Her name is Miriam A. Hyman. You know her from shows like Blue Bloods, Grey’s Anatomy, NCIS, Orange is the New Black, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Master of None, Law & Order, The Wire and The Laundromat. She currently stars in season three of Showtime’s The CHI and has a new album out under her MC moniker Robyn Hood. Among many things, Miriam dishes on her favorite Philly cheesesteak place: Dalessandro’s in Roxborough.
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July 7, 2020
In this episode, the podcast team talks to two of their favorite folks from the local sports scene: Tom McCarthy, voice of the Philadelphia Phillies, and Jazmine Smith, who leads the charge to diversify field hockey and lacrosse with Eyekonz Field Hockey and Lacrosse. With baseball about to return, our hosts check in with McCarthy, the man who knows everything about the Phillies, to learn more about life in and out of Citizens Bank Park. Then, Smith — who for the last 18 years has been a force to get girls of color to play lacrosse and field hockey — updates us on how her athletes are staying active on the field and in the community.
June 23, 2020
To get to the root of festival life, the podcast team called in the big bosses! Episode 13 begins with Shawn Gee, who honed his management skills with legendary Roots manager Rich Nichols. Over the years, Gee has managed The Roots and Jill Scott and served as business manager for Drake, Nicki Minaj, Meek Mill, Lil Wayne and a slew of others. Gee — who’s also the president of Live Nation Urban — gives us the lowdown on this year’s virtual Roots Picnic, which he has produced in Philly for over a decade now. Also virtual this year: Wawa Welcome America, Philadelphia’s annual Fourth of July festival. What’s in store for 2020? The festival’s CEO, Michael Delbene, gives us the scoop on the big acts and how and where they’ll be performing live.
June 9, 2020
— Left: Dyana Williams; Right: VINCINT photo courtesy of Matthew Takes
While the country is going through a cycle of change, the podcast team in Philadelphia wants to offer some hope. Rachel, Laiya and Justin dive into a couple of remarkable Philly stories this week during a special edition of Love + Grit. First up: Dyana Williams. The media personality and strategist has been a Philly tastemaker for more than 40 years, and is even the inspiration behind some of your favorite love songs. Known as the mother of Black Music Month (which occurs every June), Williams is the reason the annual celebration is recognized worldwide. Also on this episode, special guest VINCINT, who definitely looks like a star, though it’s his voice that gives him burgeoning icon status. You know him from the hit show The Four, and now you can hear his voice in the theme song of the new season of Queer Eye that’s based in Philadelphia. Hear his Philly story and how he is utilizing his platform for change.
May 19, 2020
Philadelphia native Angela Nissel, one of Hollywood’s most in-demand writers, gained popularity with her blockbuster memoir The Broke Diaries: The Completely True and Hilarious Misadventures of a Good Girl Gone Broke and as a producer and writer on hit television shows Mixed-ish, Scrubs and more. She helps kick off this episode of Love + Grit with a discussion about her entertainment journey. Then, NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle recaps her conversations with Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola about teaming up with Yuengling for “Cheers PA,” and with Davida Janae, the local fashion blogger keeping folks polished and stylish while working from home. Spike Eskin, program director for SportsRadio 94WIP, hits the (virtual) hardwood with our hosts to end the episode. A second-generation Philadelphia sports talk radio personality and co-host of The Rights to Ricky Sanchez, Eskin explains the origins of his name and his 76ers podcast’s name, and speculates about the future of sports.
Nicole Marquis, owner of vegan eateries HipCityVeg, Charlie was a sinner. and Bar Bombón, has always kept a dizzying pace at the office. On this episode of Love + Grit, she gives listeners a peek into her life amid COVID-19, which includes staying open for takeout and delivery, and helping the city’s restaurant industry recover. Then, NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle shares the stories of Dolaine Benjamin, a licensed nail technician now making press-on nail kits; and Stuff’d Buns, a local food truck parlaying one good deed into weeks of feeding those on the front lines. Duafe Holistic Hair Care owner Syreeta Scott, who’s worked with Janet Jackson and Ava DuVernay, helps wrap up the episode with a reminder about the importance of self-care.
May 12, 2020
Back at their mics for another episode of Love + Grit, our hosts catch up with 2020 James Beard Award nominee and Top Chef winner Nick Elmi of popular restaurants Laurel and ITV. Elmi shares theories about the current bread-baking craze and his family’s ingredient-foraging adventures. Then, we hear from DJ Diamond Kuts, the first female mixer on Philadelphia radio. The Philly native, who’s worked with President Barack Obama, Nicki Minaj and Lil Uzi Vert, gets real about her rock-and-roll-loving son and how exploring new creative outlets improves her mental health
May 5, 2020
Philadelphia’s own Eugene “Man-Man” Roberts helps kick off this episode of Love + Grit with a conversation about being John Legend’s music director, Instagram and live-streaming platform Twitch. Then, NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle introduces our hosts to three West Chester University students using music to thank first responders and other heroes for their work during the COVID-19 crisis. And finally, Laiya, Rachel and Justin check in with Nerd Street Gamers CEO John Fazio to discuss how gaming can create important connections in many communities, and the inspiration he found on a Christmas Day adventure during his childhood.
April 28, 2020
On this episode of Love + Grit, James Beard Award-nominated chef Eli Kulp of Fork and High Street on Market talks about reinventing his life following the 2015 train crash that left him paralyzed and his new CHEF Radio Podcast about all aspects of the food industry. Then, NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle shares Black hair care tips from local stylists and reports on daily deliveries Simply Good Jars provides to hospital workers around Philadelphia. Finally, Nasheli Juliana Ortiz-González, fashion designer and department chair at Moore College of Art & Design and contestant on the Netflix’s Next in Fashion; and Marién Vélez, lighting designer and founder of 22 Studio, talk about the Spanish language mask-making tutorials they created to help people stay safe.
April 21, 2020
While spending time at home and talking about the region they love so much, the Love + Grit hosts kick off this episode by sharing their favorite regional craft breweries offering delivery before discussing vegetarian cuisine and the future of the restaurant industry with Vedge owners and James Beard Award honorees Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby. Then, Laiya, Rachel and Justin catch up with NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle, who shares the story of 11-year-old boxing twins Steven and Daniel Grandy and gives the details on Xyntek, the Bucks County engineering firm creating and donating personal protective equipment to healthcare workers. Next, the trio talks with Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon of the husband-and-wife music duo Kindred the Family Soul about the challenges of being at home full time with six children, the importance of celebrating Juneteenth and their upcoming album.
April 14, 2020
In another episode that finds our hosts heeding advice to stay and home and stay safe, entertainment industry pioneer Charlie Mack, known as Philadelphia’s Big Brother, talks with the Love + Grit team about his work with stars like Will Smith, DJ Jazzy Jeff and Bryshere Gray (better known as Yazz). Next, NBC10 Philly Live host Aunyea Lachelle discusses the importance of fostering pets during this time.
The episode wraps with tips for staying entertained at home. BlackStar Film Festival founder Maori Karmael Holmes shares movie and TV recommendations for streaming, and master mixologist André Darlington reveals the secret to a perfect cocktail and offers inventive musical pairings for your next drink.
April 7, 2020
In this episode of Love + Grit, designed to help all of us get through COVID-19, we embrace the importance of laughter as our guests tell us about how they’re navigating these uncertain times. First, Philadelphia comic and Temple University alum TuRae Gordon talks about writing new material and really getting to know his wife during the extended stay at home. Then, NBC’s Philly Live host Aunyea Luchelle joins us to discuss good news: the “hunger heroes” of the Share Food Program and Save Philly Eats. Finally, Iron Chef and James Beard Award winner Jose Garces drops in from his kitchen — in the midst of living his best #DadLife — to share how he’s keeping his family busy, the current state of the restaurant industry and what he’s cooking at home.
March 31, 2020
On this episode of Love + Grit, our hosts highlight the people of Greater Philadelphia and their stories of positivity, ingenuity and compassion in response to the impact of COVID-19 on the region. First, Jennifer Carroll — Top Chef finalist, Philadelphia native and Spice Finch executive chef — shares easy make-at-home recipes and discusses some of the ways to support restaurant employees. Then, Aunyea Lachelle, host of VISIT PHILADELPHIA broadcast partner NBC10’s Philly Live, joins in for a new weekly segment showcasing the region’s many acts of kindness and hope. This week, her focus is on Handwash, a song from a group of young men from the Caring People Alliance after-school program at R.W. Brown Community Center in North Philadelphia.
March 24, 2020
Note: Love + Grit is here to inform and bring the fun, but we want you to know that this episode was recorded before COVID-19. Upcoming episodes will share stories of the region’s vibrancy and the fun we’ll have when Philly is Philly again.
In this episode of Love + Grit, hosts Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi meet West Philadelphia-born DJ Aktive to discuss his work with Janet Jackson, Kanye West and The Roots. Then, Ursula Augustine, nationally recognized cosmetology expert and founder of Ursula’s About Phace Rittenhouse Studio, shows Rachel and Laiya how to create the perfect brow — using a familiar test subject. The episode ends as all should, with shareable cocktails and apps at The Notary Hotel in Center City. Our hosts dive deep into why Justin loves the drinks from their bar and the Spanish tapas from their kitchen.
February 25, 2020
In the first episode of Love + Grit, learn why hosts Laiya St. Clair, Rachel Ferguson and Justin Pizzi love Philadelphia as much as they do (and why you should, too). Then listen as they chat with three women making an impact on the city.
First, the hosts talk to Rashia Bell, a West Philadelphia native and crystal designer for the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, about the healing power of crystals and how special it was for her to return to her hometown. Next, they stop at The Colored Girls Museum in Germantown to hear from founder Vashti DuBois about Sunday hair sessions and the accomplishments of the everyday African American women featured here. Then, Patrice Banks, founder of Girls Auto Clinic, gives a quick lesson in car repair with her all-female team of auto mechanics.
Explore Philadelphia’s unexpected treasures and time-honored traditions through the stories of its biggest fans and most buzzy innovators, and learn more about what this amazing city has to offer each time you hit the play button.
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