NEXT with Marcus Atkinson

The hosts of Next 2.0, Marcus Atkinson, Chuck Cammarata, and Marc Blount, convene to analyze the results of the recent local Erie elections. The discussion focuses on the decisive sweep by Democratic nominees, including new County Executive Chair Christina Vogel and Mayoral winner Darya Devlin. The panel examines this significant political shift, considering the emergent trend of women ascending to Erie's highest offices and what this new leadership paradigm represents for the community. They explore the potential departure from a previous era of political style, discussing what this change in leadership tone and focus could mean for the future of the city and county.

Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by Kathy Dahlkemper, former U.S. Representative and Erie County Executive, for a critical examination of the county's top leadership position. Drawing on her unique experience, Dahlkemper clarifies the core responsibilities of the Executive Chair and discusses how the role is intended to foster collaboration and countywide prosperity. The conversation addresses the integral connection between the health of Erie's urban core and its rural communities, arguing that one cannot thrive without the other. Dahlkemper also offers a detailed endorsement of candidate Christina Vogel, breaking down the qualifications and leadership qualities she believes are necessary to effectively unite and move Erie County forward.

This week on next, Marcus Atkinson interviews Christina Vogel, Democratic candidate for Erie County Executive Chair. In this episode, Vogel outlines the qualifications that inform her candidacy, from her role as a small-business owner navigating a competitive landscape to her experience as a board member for the Erie County Community College. She discusses how personal challenges forged her resilience and shaped her commitment to public service. Vogel details her platform centered on expanding affordable education, ensuring reliable emergency services, and supporting family well-being, emphasizing that progress is achieved through collaboration with local businesses, labor, and municipalities. Join us for a substantive conversation on the priorities and partnerships needed to move Erie County forward.

Erie County Councilman Rock Copeland, Chair of the Finance Committee, sits down for a detailed discussion on the proposed 2026 county budget. In this episode, Councilman Copeland addresses recent statements from the County Executive's office, providing a point-by-point analysis to clarify the budget's framework and implications. He presents numerical evidence to highlight specific concerns, including potential misrepresentations within the proposal and the impact of problematic cuts. This conversation offers a critical, in-depth look at the county's financial planning and the process of codifying a budget that serves the public interest.

What's really at stake with Millcreek's proposed government change? Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by current Supervisor Kim Clear, who is not running for re-election, for a candid and crucial conversation. Free from campaign politics, Clear makes her case against the ballot initiative to switch to a five-member, part-time board. She delves into why she believes this model would hinder progress, discussing the scale of Millcreek's operations and the need for committed staff to tackle key projects the community wants. Tune in for an insider's view on how the structure of your government directly impacts your services and community's future.

What does it mean to care for a community? Host Chuck Cammarata talks with Kylie Morris, who is running for Millcreek Supervisor, about her journey from the healthcare field to the political arena. She explains how her passion for care is now being applied to the health of Millcreek itself, with a sharp focus on the infrastructure that affects daily life: streets, sidewalks, and stormwater drains. They tackle big questions about how the township is run and what should be done with vacant lots. Tune in to hear her plans for tangible change and a fresh perspective on local government.

Hosts Chuck Cammarata and Marc Blount sit down with Erie County Executive Brenton Davis for a comprehensive look at his vision for the region. In this episode of Next 2.0, Davis discusses his personal history of service and his deep dedication to Erie's future. The conversation covers a wide range of critical topics, including his plans for economic growth, his philosophy on strong leadership, and his perspectives on current issues, such as his stance on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. Join us for a substantive discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing Erie County.

Erie County is in the midst of a heated debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, with national coverage from The Washington Post and local reporting from GoErie.com highlighting both progress and resistance within county government. In this episode of NEXT, Marcus Atkinson sits down with Christina Vogel, Democratic candidate for County Executive of Erie County, PA. Vogel shares her personal journey, discusses her vision for Erie’s future, and addresses the county’s DEI challenges head-on. This episode offers viewers an inside look at the people, policies, and decisions shaping Erie, and provides a candid glimpse into how Vogel plans to navigate these pressing issues.

In this eye-opening episode of NEXT 2.0, hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata sit down with Carol Kuniholm, Co-Founder of Fair Districts PA, and Michael Bucella, Northwest Region Coordinator, to unpack the ongoing battles over redistricting and the threats they pose to democracy. From the controversial power grabs in Texas and California to the mechanics of gerrymandering—and even the lesser-known “dummymander”—the conversation breaks down how political maps are manipulated and what these tactics mean for voters across the country. The guests also share strategies for fighting back, highlighting how citizens can resist partisan map-drawing and work toward a system that ensures fair representation for all.

On the latest episode of NEXT2.0 on WQLN PBS NPR, Marcus Atkinson sits down for a powerful, one-on-one conversation with a local woman experiencing homelessness. In this candid and riveting interview, she shares her journey, the challenges she faces daily, and her hopes for the future. Marcus guides the discussion with empathy and insight, shedding light on the human stories behind the statistics and giving viewers an unflinching look at the reality of homelessness in our community. This episode is both eye-opening and profoundly moving, offering a platform for voices too often unheard. Tune in!

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump held a press conference in Erie, Pennsylvania, to address the case of Marchello Woodard, a local man whose death in police custody has sparked widespread concern. Crump, known for representing families in high-profile civil rights cases, called for a thorough and transparent investigation into Woodard's death. He emphasized the need for accountability and justice, highlighting the broader implications for police practices and community trust. The press conference drew attention to systemic issues and underscored the family's demand for answers and reform. His presence represents a seismic shift in the Woodard case. We were in the room to witness the unparalleled energy emanating from the podium. Tune in to hear more on this episode of NEXT2.0.

In this powerful episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Kristy Gnibus, Executive Director of the Erie County Human Relations Commission, to discuss the recent event Race, Place, and Belonging: Being Black in Erie, held on July 17th at the Blasco Library. Part of a broader series aimed at fostering cross-community understanding, the event provided a platform for honest dialogue around race, identity, and discrimination in Erie. Despite public disapproval from the County Executive, Kristy and her team continue to push forward with programming that brings marginalized voices to the forefront and encourages deeper empathy across demographic lines. This episode highlights the power of storytelling, the courage of local leadership, and the need for continued community education and connection.

You hear it all the time about Generation Z (people born between – roughly – 1995 and 2010) You hear, “Those kids, Gen Z, are so lazy, entitled, and soft...” Some of that is just the usual older folk lamenting “These kids these days!!” It has been going on forever, but, there are actually some things about this generation as it comes of age – these kids are now between 15 and 30 – that does in fact make them very different from previous generations. They are the first generation never to know a world without the internet, so technology and social media is in their DNA for both good and ill. In America they are the first generation to be majority non-white. They were born into and have grown up in the post 9/11 world where terrorism is far more prevalent than in most past generations. They are a generation facing a future of enormous challenges, from climate change, to assault on democracy in America, to reasserting a kind of “Gilded Age” economy that makes a mockery of the American Dream. They twice as likely as previous generations to report being depressed, anxious, and pessimistic about the future. They are a generation that has experienced the foundations that us older Americans depended on, crumbling beneath them. But, for all the bad news, and all the complaining about them, I find Gen Z to be thoughtful, compassionate, and amazingly creative as they tackle the problems we have left them to deal with. Today’s program is the first in a series on Gen Z, who they are, how they are different, and what we can learn about and from them. Interviewing a bunch of them over the past few weeks have been tremendously encouraging and hopeful for me. On today’s program you will hear Marcus and me discussing a series of issues with 4 members of Gen Z: Kaitlyn Falk is the Wellness Director for the City of Erie schools. Chris Rosato is the general manager of Ascend Erie, a wall climbing company in downtown Erie with a social conscience. Jenny Tompkins works in public policy with non-profits with a special emphasis on environmental issues. Aaron Cronin is a recent college grad who has been our technical assistant, producer and NPR intern this past year.

The Human Relations Commission of Erie, PA, recently hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion titled 'Being Black in Erie.' Community leaders, activists, and residents gathered to share personal experiences, challenges, and aspirations within the city. The event underscored the importance of dialogue and action in fostering inclusivity and understanding across Erie's diverse communities. As voices resonated with resilience and hope, participants explored avenues for meaningful change. The Human Relations Commission continues to lead vital conversations, advocating for equity and unity in Erie. The community's commitment to progress echoes loudly: 'Together, we thrive. Today is part one of this analysis, on NEXT2.0. Tap in!

In this episode, we explore the specifics of the shooting of Marchello Woodard, highlighting the importance of achieving justice. Our conversation revolves around why his parole officer committed this act, despite Woodard being unarmed and posing no apparent threat. Our guest, Daryl "Brother D" Craig, shares critical information and his unique perspectives, enriching our understanding of this compelling story. A key element is the visible sign promoting justice, a symbol of hope and inspiration in the pursuit of justice, on this episode of NEXT2.0.

In this episode of NEXT2.0, Justice Sonia Sotomayor's recent dissenting court ruling has sparked significant reflection this 4th of July season. Her impassioned stance challenges us to reconsider fundamental principles of equality and justice, resonating deeply in today's charged political climate. As we celebrate our nation's independence, Sotomayor's dissent serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle to uphold the ideals of liberty and justice for all. Tune in.

Join Marcus Atkinson on the latest episode of NEXT2.0 as community voices converge to discuss President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran’s nuclear facility, as others sound off on social media about a fight that broke out among teenagers at an outdoor movie night. From insightful perspectives on current affairs to personal reflections, please tune in to hear diverse opinions shaping our communities today. Don't miss this engaging conversation on NEXT, where every voice counts.

Boys II Men is a program developed by Anthony McGowan in Erie, Pennsylvania, focused on fostering brotherhood among young men. Mr. McGowan aims to help these young men avoid becoming statistics related to gang involvement and to treat one another like family. The program offers various resources, teaching valuable skills such as how to perform oil changes, play football, and box. These resources offer young men the opportunity to come together and form meaningful connections. Additionally, it provides guidance on how to submit a resume effectively and prepare for job interviews. Mr. McGowan created this program out of love for the community, to improve the environment for young men as they transition into adulthood and strive for a better quality of life.

In this inspiring episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Erie native Paul Flemmings to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the My Brother’s Keeper Scholarship, co-founded by Flemmings and sponsored by the Uplift Foundation. The conversation traces the origins of the scholarship—rooted in a deep commitment to uplift young Black men through education and community support—and explores why Paul continues to return to Erie every Father’s Day to honor this mission. Together, Marcus and Paul reflect on influential community leaders, the importance of giving back, and the enduring power of the "it takes a village" philosophy. This episode is a tribute to legacy, leadership, and the bonds that tie us to home.

In this heartfelt and timely episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson sits down with Dr. Baker of Impact E.R.I.E. to explore the evolving and diverse experiences of fatherhood. From the emotional to the practical, Dr. Baker shares insights from his work in fatherhood research and community leadership, emphasizing the importance of supporting men as they strive to become better fathers, husbands, and leaders. Together, they discuss the power of community and the need for inclusive spaces where men from all walks of life can grow, learn, and heal. The episode also highlights the upcoming Men’s Conference on Father’s Day, hosted at Second Baptist Church, 757 East 26th Street, Erie, PA 16503—an event designed to empower and uplift fathers in the Erie community. Tune in for a powerful conversation about redefining fatherhood and building a stronger, more supportive future for men and families alike.