Podcasts

Buffalo legends Jeni Arroyo and Will Marcy join Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, a.k.a. The Full-Time Black Man, on Igniting Hope Radio to talk about Project Homeless Connect Buffalo 2025 — the 17th annual one-day, one-stop event helping our neighbors experiencing homelessness. 📅 Event Date: Thursday, September 19th 📍 Location: Buffalo, NY This is the ONE day each year where Buffalo comes together to connect hundreds of individuals with housing, healthcare, food, clothing, education, legal support, and more — all with kindness, respect, and neighborly love. 💡 How YOU Can Help: 🏠 Landlords & Developers: Donate or lease unused properties. 👕 Community Members: Bring clothing, toiletries, and supplies. 💸 Businesses & Philanthropists: Sponsor services, food, and resources. 🙌 Volunteers: Join us on the 19th to serve, support, and uplift our neighbors. Together, we can make a real impact in the lives of Buffalo’s most vulnerable. Don’t just watch — come out and be part of the solution! #BuffaloNY #ProjectHomelessConnect #HomelessnessAwareness #CommunityAction #IgnitingHopeRadio #FullTimeBlackMan #BuffaloStrong

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Igniting Hope Radio, powered by the Buffalo Center for Health Equity! 🌟 In this powerful conversation, host Samantha Hidalgo, a passionate staff member at the Center, sits down with Alia Amer, our brilliant High Road Fellow from Cornell University, for a deep and energizing discussion on maternal health and wellness across the globe. 🌍👶🏽💕 During her time interning at the Center, Alia explored global maternal health practices—from North America to communities across the world—and examined how these approaches can inform, inspire, and improve maternal health outcomes here in Buffalo. 🏥✨ Together, Samantha and Alia dive into: ✅ Culturally rooted maternal wellness practices ✅ Policy innovations that support birthing people 🌺 ✅ Community-centered care models ✅ What Buffalo can learn—and lead—with ✅ The resources and investments needed for change 💸 ✅ And the beauty of learning across borders 🌐 This is a strength-based, solutions-driven conversation filled with insight, warmth, and hope. 💬❤️ Whether you're a public health professional, parent, policymaker, or passionate advocate, this episode will leave you inspired to think globally and act locally. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more uplifting conversations and community-driven change! #IgnitingHope #MaternalHealth #BuffaloCenterForHealthEquity

In this powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks—Buffalo native and full-time Black man—sits down with a bold new voice in local politics: Anthony Tyson-Thompson, a young, grassroots mayoral candidate with a mission to rebuild Buffalo from the ground up. Born on Buffalo’s East Side and shaped by the city’s struggles, Anthony is running not to play politics—but to disrupt the status quo. This episode pulls no punches as we dive into the real issues facing Buffalo’s Black communities: crime, gentrification, youth violence, red tape, and whether City Hall actually works for the people. 🔥 Topics We Cover: Why older Black leaders need to make space for younger voices What defunding vs. defending public safety could really mean Gentrification vs. revitalization on Buffalo’s East Side Why Anthony believes change can't wait—and how he’ll make it happen This isn’t your average campaign interview. This is a deep, honest conversation about what Buffalo could be—if we dared to lead with courage. 📢 Like, comment, and subscribe to keep the conversations going. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. #AnthonyTysonThompson #BuffaloMayorRace #BuffaloPolitics #IgnitingHopeRadio #BuffaloBlackLeadership #GentrificationBuffalo #EastSideBuffalo #DisruptTheSystem #FullTimeBlackMan #ShermanWebbMiddlebrooks #BuffaloYouth #ChangeCantWait Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. The appearance of any political candidate on this podcast does not constitute an endorsement, support, or opposition of any candidate, party, or campaign by the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. This conversation is intended solely for educational and informational purposes in alignment with our mission to advance health equity and civic engagement. The Buffalo Center for Health Equity is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization and does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.

In this insightful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, host Sherman Webb Middlebrooks—a lifelong Buffalo resident and the full-time Black man—sits down with Talia Rodriguez, candidate for the West District seat on the Buffalo School Board. Talia opens up about her experiences as a working mother, political scientist, and advocate for children and immigrant families. She shares her vision for educational equity, food justice, and supporting vulnerable student populations—including ESL learners, parenting students, and LGBTQ+ youth. This powerful conversation is part of our commitment at the Buffalo Center for Health Equity to amplify voices that shape the social determinants of health and education in our community. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This interview is not an endorsement of any political candidate. The Buffalo Center for Health Equity is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and does not engage in political endorsements. This is an informational discussion for community awareness and education. 👉🏽 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help spread awareness. 🌐 Visit us at: www.buffalohealthequity.org

In this powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, hosted by lifelong Buffalo resident and The Full-Time Black Man Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, we welcome Dr. Jamal B. Williams, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine. Sherman and Dr. Williams go way back to their days at D’Youville College, and in this engaging, down-to-earth conversation, they reflect on Dr. Williams’ journey from growing up on Buffalo’s East Side to becoming a leading researcher studying the brain, ADHD, epigenetics, and their impact on Black communities. Together, they dive into the challenges and triumphs of breaking barriers, building knowledge, and centering community health in the fight for equity. This episode also highlights the upcoming Igniting Hope Conference on September 20th at the Jacobs School of Medicine, following Community Day on May 19th at MLK Park. This annual gathering brings together residents, scholars, and organizations committed to advancing health equity in Buffalo. Dr. Williams, who began as an intern and helped shape the conference for years, now returns in a new role—as a participant—bringing his story full circle. Tune in for inspiration, insight, and a reminder that equity work is a collective journey.

Join us for a powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio hosted by Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks—lifelong Buffalo resident and full-time Black man—alongside Joel Nicholas and Giovanna Como-Brown of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. This special conversation features legendary jazz bassist Sabu, as we explore his incredible journey from Buffalo to the global jazz stage, and his reflections on life, music, love, and the deep cultural harm inflicted by the tobacco industry on Black communities. 🎶 From performing with Ahmad Jamal and Charles Mingus to mentoring the next generation at the University at Buffalo, Sabu brings decades of wisdom and lived experience to this conversation—especially on the intersection between jazz, Black culture, and targeted tobacco advertising. 🗓️ Don’t miss our live event on Saturday, June 28th, 3–6 p.m. 📍 Pocket Park | 589 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 🎷 Featuring Sabu, Adeola’s Oasis, and more at this Anti-Menthol Jazz Concert – a bold alternative to Big Tobacco’s co-opted cultural sponsorships. ✅ Register now and learn more at buffalohealthequity.org 📲 Follow the Buffalo Center for Health Equity on all social media platforms. Let’s honor our culture while fighting for our health. #NoMentholBuffalo #IgnitingHope #JazzForJustice

In this powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, hosted by Pastor George Nicholas and produced by Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks (The Full-Time Black Man), we sit down with the Honorable Jennifer Mecozzi — West District Board Member of Buffalo Public Schools. Jennifer shares her journey as a proud Buffalo native, mother, grandmother, and nationally recognized speaker. Together, we dive deep into the importance of public school board elections, how community involvement can shift outcomes for our youth, and why healing from trauma and promoting wellness in our schools is urgent and necessary. This is a conversation about equity, accountability, and action — for the future of Buffalo’s children and communities. Don’t miss it. 🎙️ Sponsored by the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that inspire health, justice, and hope.

In this eye-opening episode of the Igniting Hope Podcast, presented by the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, host Samantha Hidalgo sits down with Keelan from the Partnership for the Public Good (PPG) to discuss the transformative power of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) in Buffalo. Produced by Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, lifelong Buffalo resident and 'The Full-Time Black Man,' this episode dives into why Buffalo's current voting system limits real choice and how RCV could change the game. With a historic mayoral election approaching in 2025, now is the time for Buffalo to embrace a fairer, more democratic way to vote.

In this powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, aka The Full-Time Black Man, sits down with Scott and Anubias to explore the raw truth about resilience, overcoming addiction, and breaking free from violent pasts. Scott, a facilitator with Nurturing Fathers of Western New York and volunteer at the Buffalo City Mission, shares his journey of transformation and the powerful work he's doing with Badass Men's Alliance. Anubias, a young man in his 20s, opens up about his experiences growing up in Buffalo and the life-changing mentorship he's received from Scott and other men in the community. We also dive into the bold idea of leaving Buffalo to find love and what it means for those trying to heal and grow beyond their past. PLUS: We welcome Brother Bryant, who recently moved to Buffalo from the New York City area to join his fiancée. He shares his heartfelt journey of transitioning from the fast-paced life of NYC to the community-focused spirit of Buffalo, all in the name of love. His story of faith, commitment, and adaptation is a testament to the power of love and resilience. Join us for this candid and inspiring conversation that sheds light on the strength of community, the power of mentorship, and the hope for new beginnings.

Welcome to the very first episode of ICYMI: Buffalo & Beyond — the new monthly video podcast powered by the Buffalo Center for Health Equity 🎙️ Hosted by The Full-Time Blackman, this show keeps it 💯 as we break down: 📰 The latest news you may have missed 💉 Public health updates that matter 🗳️ Hot takes on politics (local & national) 💼 Behind-the-scenes action from our BCHE team In this episode: • Buffalo news + national headlines • Why health equity is more urgent than ever • Workforce development, research, & upcoming events • Plus, meet the amazing folks behind the mission – Gia, Kim, Samantha H., and Samantha N. ✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for monthly drops! 📲 Stay plugged in. Stay informed. Stay active.

In this soul-stirring episode of the Igniting Hope Podcast, host Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, The Full-Time Black Man, sits down with internationally acclaimed pianist, composer, and educator Walter Kemp 3 to explore the profound connection between music, mental health, and healing. Kemp, a Viscount-endorsed artist and the mastermind behind The Black Whole, Kemp + the Reyvolation, and Walter Kemp 3oh!, shares how live instrumentation and creative expression serve as powerful tools for wellness and emotional restoration. They dive into: 🎵 The science behind music as a form of therapy 🎵 How improvisation and jazz mirror the unpredictability of life 🎵 The impact of live music on mental health & personal growth 🎵 Walter’s journey as an artist, educator, and father navigating the music industry Whether you’re an artist, a mental health advocate, or simply a lover of music, this episode will open your ears—and your heart—to the transformative power of sound. 🔥 Tap in, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

In this powerful episode of the Igniting Hope Podcast, host Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks, aka The Full-Time Black Man, sits down with his friend and mentor, Dr. Christopher St. Vil, to explore the critical role of research in shaping policies, influencing advocacy, and telling the stories that matter. Dr. St. Vil, an esteemed researcher and professor at the University at Buffalo School of Social Work, brings his expertise in trauma, violence, and health disparities—particularly among Black men—to the conversation. Together, they break down: ✅ The power of data in advocating for systemic change ✅ How storytelling backed by research can shift public perception and policy ✅ The intersection of violence, trauma, and social work in Black communities ✅ Why research isn’t just numbers—it’s a tool for healing and empowerment This episode isn’t just about academia—it’s about action. Whether you’re a student, activist, or policymaker, this discussion will challenge you to think critically about how we gather, evaluate, and use data to create real, lasting impact. 🔥 Hit that like button, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments—because informed conversations lead to inspired action! #ResearchMatters #DataDrivesChange #IgnitingHopePodcast #BuffaloCenterForHealthEquity

Buffalo’s housing crisis is no secret—systemic inequities, unaffordable rents, and predatory development practices have left too many families struggling to find stable, dignified housing. In this powerful episode of Igniting Hope Radio, Pastor George Nicholas sits down with experts from Partnership for the Public Good (PPG) and PUSH Buffalo to break down the root causes of these disparities and explore solutions that put people over profit. 🔹 Why are Black and Brown communities disproportionately affected by housing instability? 🔹 What policies are needed to ensure equitable access to safe, affordable housing? 🔹 How can community-led advocacy and grassroots organizing make a real difference? With insights from some of Buffalo’s leading housing justice advocates, this episode sheds light on the fight for fair housing policies, tenant protections, and sustainable community development. 🎙️ Produced by Sherman “The Full-Time Black Man” Webb-Middlebrooks, this discussion is a must-listen for anyone invested in equity, justice, and the future of Buffalo’s neighborhoods. 🖥️ Learn more & take action: buffalohealthequity.com