Real Talk Memphis with Chip Washington

Episode Notes My guests include the honorable Memphis Mayor Paul Young who will be joining me live in studio. He is about to enter his third year in office and it’s time to look back at what was, and what challenges lie ahead for 2026. Next, the State Legislative session begins in another week and they have an ambitious agenda. I speak with Representative GA Hardaway who joins me to give us a preview of what the agenda looks like including the National Guard presence and a possible takeover of the MSCS school district. Finally, as this new year year begins many of us are leaning on God in prayer for a better future. Rev. Dr. Reginald Boyce, Sr. Pastor of Riverside MB Church drops in to share his 5 things we’re leaving behind in 2025 to release and restart. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6pm on 91.7 WYXR FM. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to Talk Memphis!

Episode Notes My guests include MSCS Board Chairman Natalie McKinney who will breakdown a challenging year to be sure along with a pending lawsuit and possible school closures. Shelby County Commissioner Charlie Caswell makes a return visit after a long absence. Speaking of challenges, this commission had had more than its share; from voting to move the school board under the county election cycle next year cutting some terms in half, to the challenge of trying to fund a new jail not to mention budgetary issues which include the cost of the Memphis Safe Task Force. He gives me his take as we prepare to tackle even more in 2026. Finally, a man who has a reputation for never pulling punches and telling it as he sees it. Columnist, commentator and author Otis Sanford makes a special appearance and gives me his highs and lows of 2025. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Ben and Jessica Owen, founders of We Fight Monsters. This organization provides trauma informed care and shelter while helping those in need of help transform their lives from darkness to light just like they were both able to do. Speaking of transforming lives, the Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis is dedicated to empowering youth through arts and media. Their founder and CEO LaDell Beamon joins me to talk about maintaining their focus in the new year by offering programs to inspire change and resilience in Memphis. Lastly, where do our future leaders come from and how do we help them get there? Kesha Ivy, Chief Academic Officer from Junior Achievement of Memphis tells me how they are getting our children world ready by pushing them through hard work and effort to provide all the tools they need to become successful leaders of tomorrow. That and more both on air and online Monday nite, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests this week include Memphis Crime Beat Executive Director Leslie Taylor. We all know that many of the individuals that have been arrested are not first time visitors or offenders. She tells me just how big a problem the issue of recidivism is in Memphis and you might be surprised at the numbers. Next, the Youth, Justice and Education Center has a new leader as custody of juveniles is now in under the control of Shelby County Government and the Corrections Center. Reese Walker was recently named as Interim Executive Director of the center, and tells me about how emphasizing and encouraging them thru support and training can make a positive difference. Finally, as we get closer to the holidays, emotions can often times get the best of us allowing deep depression to set in. Therapist and counselor Alicia Denton joins me to share tips on how to cope thru a difficult period for so many people. That and more both on air and on line Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes We begin the year end countdown with my guests; Shelby County Commissioner Britney Thornton. From the Memphis Safe Task Force, to the funding of a new jail detention center and a budget shortfall it’s a busy time. She talks about the challenges coming into 2026. Next, the official holiday season is here and that means shopping in the stores and online. Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Calvin Grantham joins me to talk holiday shopping safety tips and how to keep yourself and others from becoming an easy target. Lastly, this time of year can be very difficult emotionally as we think about those who are no longer present physically but always in our hearts. Mental Health Counselor and author of, Under the Purple Clouds Alicia Denton joins me to talk about how we can cope with grief through this holiday season and how to overcome. That and more, Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also on the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy, who at present is juggling many more responsibilities these days. The Safe Task Force record number of arrests are straining court resources leaving him scrambling and looking for options. He joins me live to lay it all out. State Representative Gabby Salinas was one of the plaintiffs along with Mayor Lee Harris and other officials who sought an injunction against the Governor for the National Guard deployment. They won temporarily and now the state has appealed. She tells me what they expect. Next, the weather's changing and illnesses are on the rise. Shelby County Interim Health Director Dr. Bruce Randolph joins me to discuss that and other health disparities. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also on the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It's time to talk.

Episode Notes A public community affairs show that speaks to and addresses current issues that affect our lives.

Episode Notes My guests include MS State Senator Elect Theresa G. Isom. The former healthcare administrator was elected representing the 2nd District which includes parts of DeSoto and Tunica counties. The result of a special election becoming the first African American and female to represent DeSoto County. She tells me how she did it and finally broke the long-standing white majority. Dana Brooks is the Executive Director of the Shelby County Community Agency. They help people with rent and utility assistance with federal dollars but that has suddenly become more difficult and challenging with a new online system people must use while the government shutdown freezes funding. She explains how they must now help people to navigate a complicated system. Finally, for most of us getting the latest information regarding our everyday lives comes from our local TV news stations. Joy Redmond is the evening news anchor at WMC TV 5 and can be seen on the 5, 6 and 10 pm newscasts. I get a chance to visit with her for the first time to find out why she chose this field as a career, what goes into building the community trust and how she brings her own ‘Joy’ to every broadcast. That and more on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Scott Fortin, President and CEO of the Mid-South Food Bank. This has been a pretty stressful time to be sure, with the government shutdown putting federal employees out of work and food programs like SNAP being effectively shut down. With thousands being affected and inventory low, he tells me how they will continue to operate in spite of great challenges. In times of uncertainty, people of the mid-south don’t ask what the problem is, but how to solve it. Many people rely on area food pantries and recently at Advent Presbyterian Church, a rise in food insecurity brought on by SNAP benefits caused a traffic overload. Rich Lando coordinates the church’s efforts and says it’s another example of sharing God’s love. Finally, Gloria Browne-Marshall is an Emmy Award winning author, law professor and playwright. She has written a new book dealing with the history of protest movements, called A Protest History of the United States. She joins me to talk about the 500 year journey of protests highlighting the individuals and moments that have shaped our country. That and more on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include MICAH Memphis President Rev. Keith Caldwell. In the midst of what is happening in our city on a few fronts, he has been pretty busy of late. From the Federal intervention and the fear and uncertainty for many as it continues, to the refusal of the Mayor to sign a memorandum of understanding with unions, he shares his thoughts on a busy time. Next, the government shutdown is starting to have a real effect on federal workers and programs like SNAP and other vital programs people depend on to feed their families that are in real jeopardy. TN State Representative and Democratic Caucus Chair John Ray Clemmons joins me to express his concerns and what the Governor should do to help, not harm thousands who would be affected. Now that the weather is changing and turning cooler, illnesses are beginning to crop up. It’s time for a medical update from Infectious disease specialist Dr. Steve Threlkeld to tell us what to watch out for. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include the first appearance of Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris. He was one of the first public officials to speak out regarding the Memphis Safe Task Force in his opposition against it. Three weeks later, we have seen over 1000 arrests, thousands of tickets written, 200 ICE arrests and many unanswered questions. He joins me live to discuss his concerns. Another concern is the number arrests by 20 plus agencies and the THP as to where to put the individuals being charged. Josh Spickler, Executive Director of Just City is also wondering the same thing as the jail population goes above its limit. He returns to share his thoughts on the additional strain this will put on an already over burdened court system. Finally, In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I speak with Stephanie Yarbrough, a survivor with a story of support and encouragement to share in hopes of saving lives. That and more, on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include County Commissioner Erika Sugarmon. First, they vote to change the election cycle of the school board only to have the Mayor veto it. Will there be an override? Also, the state Comptroller has not approved the Shelby County budget so what could that mean? I ask and she responds. Natalie McKinney was elected to the school board in 2024 to a four year term. That was recently changed by the Shelby County Commission to a reelection in 2026 only to be vetoed by Mayor Harris. She was also recently elected by her peers to be the next board chair. She tells me what the priorities will be moving forward. State Representative Torrey Harris drops in to share his thoughts on the Federal incursion into our city, if it was necessary and what he has heard about the reaction from residents. That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes Guests include Maria Oceja and Hunter Dempster from the watchdog group Vecindarios 901. The Memphis Safe Task Force is here to watch us, but who is watching them? They join me to share what they have seen and discovered so far. Next, we have seen several pieces of information as to how people should respond if or when stopped. K. Durrell Cowan, founder and Executive director of Heal 901 adds to the conversation as to what our young people need to know and how to act accordingly. Finally, MSCS has launched a new, mandatory one-day gun safety course for all students to comply with a new Tennessee law, which focuses on the four safety rules: Stop, Don't Touch, Leave the area and tell an adult. Dr. Rahmod Traylor from MSCS explains why this is so important and could save lives. This and more on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 FM WYXR. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include MSCS Board member Amber Huett-Garcia. Recently, the County Commission voted to move their election cycle to 2026 with the rest of the county elections. I ask her what she thinks about the move and how it might affect their business moving forward. Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton is a woman who takes the responsibility of her duties very seriously. I ask her thoughts about MATA, and the force Federal effort by the President and Governor Lee coming to Memphis and if she thinks this is necessary or reactionary. Lastly, no matter what you think of the criminal justice system. There are many important upcoming cases on the docket. Attorney Michael Working will join me to share his views on some of them and what we might expect. That and more, on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR FM. Also on WYXR.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It’s time to talk.

Episode Notes On the next live and all new Real Talk Memphis; One big issue with three differing points of view. Guests include State Senator Raumesh Akbari. With the advent of the state national guard. State troopers and other federal assets, our city will under the microscope. She tells me what she hopes will happen and what the takeaway will be. Luke Cymbal, Vice Chairman, Republican Party of Shelby County joins me to say how their party believes this is a good thing and a way to restore law and order. Finally, the immigrant population will be watching this situation very closely as ICE is expected to increase their efforts. Latino Memphis Executive director Mauricio Calvo drops by to share his thoughts and concerns. That and more on an important conversation Monday, on air and online on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It's time to talk, and listen!

Episode Notes My guests include Leslie Taylor and Ron Walter from Memphis Crime Beat. They are a volunteer watchdog organization who follow various court cases and they are working to reduce crime by bringing transparency and accountability to the justice system. They tell us what's on the radar of late. Next, DA Steve Mulroy makes a return visit. I ask him about several high profile cases with interesting verdicts and how he feels about public opinion in regards to them. Lastly, the future of the MSCS Board still very much seems to be a topic of interest and conversation. Rachael Goodwin Spriggs is a community activist and a very involved observer. She shares her take on how we should best move for the future of our children's education. This and more on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts! It's time to talk.

Episode Notes My guests include County Commissioner Erika Sugarmon. A lot of attention has been directed towards the Commission lately regarding what to do about the MSCS Board in terms of changing the election cycle, potentially shortening terms and a potential landing spot for a new jail, we discuss. Speaking of a new jail, Shelby Country Sheriff Floyd Bonner has some things on his mind too regarding that issue and a recently filed lawsuit against Mayor Lee Harris over a $67 million dollar deficit. He says it puts his officers and inmates in jeopardy and keeps him from doing his job effectively. He joins me to explain. Finally, many of us have heard of the Hospitality Hub especially during these hot weather months with the cooling center. Kelcey Johnson is the Executive Director and tells us what their true mission is which is to work to end homelessness in Memphis by connecting individuals with the resources they need. That and more on air and online Monday, 6pm on WYXR. Also, wyxr.org, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include Sarah Carpenter, Executive director, Memphis Lift. They educate and empower parents to advocate for their children. She shares her thoughts on the beginning of this school year, thoughts about the current board and if she agrees with the County Commission. Next, are you aware that you can learn how to fly the friendly skies in college? There is a new course at TN Southwest Community College that takes the first step. Dr. Aaron Jagers oversees the program and explains how it works. Finally, relationships can be complicated at times which can cause stress and frustration among couples. Patrick and Shemika Herrington are the founders of Hiswife Herhusband coaching which helps couples from surviving to thriving from a biblical perspective. That and more Monday nite both on air and online on 91.7 WYXR. Also, WYXR.org, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk

Episode Notes My guests include LaTricea Adams, founder and president of Young, Gifted and Green. They are an environmental justice organization that influences policy change through political advocacy, mentorship, and training. We recently heard that 24 MSCS schools were found with excessive amounts of lead in the water. She explains the dangers of lead exposure and what needs to happen to keep students safe. Next, Rise Memphis empowers people to become self-sufficient by building and sustaining human and financial assets. Their executive director Malcom Rawls explains how they do that and why it’s so important. Finally, the City of West Memphis is on the rise in a very big way. I ask their Mayor, Marco McClendon to share the latest projects and how they got one of the biggest travel center franchises in the country! That and more both on air and online Monday, 6 pm on 91.7 WYXR. Also, the wyxr app, TuneIn, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes My guests include MSCS Board member Michelle McKissack. It has been quite a year from the education perspective and now that another year of school is beginning it’s time to assess and look forward. We talk expectations, County Commission issues, potential state takeover and more. The Community Foundation of Greater Memphis connects the Mid South with nonprofits, individuals and initiatives making an impact and change in our community. Veronica Jamison joins me to talk about Black Philanthropy Month and its support of Black led nonprofits who help to make Memphis strong. Finally, there have been many who are troubled by how the criminal system works in our city and why it seems to be so unequal and even broken. Josh Spickler is the Executive Director of Just City who recently announced a $50,000 community bail fund effort that will help non violent offenders to keep from spending so long behind bars thus giving those an opportunity to reclaim their lives in a clogged and overcrowded system. That and more Monday, 6 pm on WYXR. Also, the wyxr app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!