Real Talk Memphis with Chip Washington

Episode Notes My guests include newly appointed 9th District County Commissioner Matthew Szalaj and he joins me for a chat since taking the position. He recently had a meet and greet in front of a packed house and shares what drove his decision, gaining community trust, his priorities and what he wants to accomplish in his short tenure. Last week, the State legislature held a press conference to announce the findings of a long awaited financial audit to address various issues involving possible waste, abuse and fraud within MSCS. While only 25 percent complete, it shows what was found is to the tune of over $1.7 and $1.1 million dollars in policy issues and violations. State Representative Karen Camper, Democratic House Caucus Leader joins me to discuss. Lastly, the nationwide No Kings protest involved millions of people including a rally in Memphis. Jessica Miller of Indivisible Memphis and David Rahaim were participants, and he was one of three arrested. They share their experience. That and more Monday nite, 6pm 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 Memphis City Councilwoman Rhonda Logan. She catches us up on several priorities including the President’s recent visit, the No Kings Rally and downtown street violence involving our young people, absenteeism and curfews. Lastly, Geoff Calkins is a trusted voice in the world of newspaper journalism and after deciding to leave sports radio now writes a daily column for the Daily Memphian. He joins me to breakdown the issues of our sports teams and what comes next? That and more Monday nite, 6pm 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 We are back with another great show! My guests include Leshundra Robinson from the National Kidney Foundation. March is National Kidney Month and the time to spread awareness about a disease that affects nearly 40 million adults. She tells us about what we can do to help others thru transplant donation. Next, have you ever heard of immersive art? It’s part of a new exhibit experience called “Baron Von Opperbean and the River of Time” and is taking shape inside the river museum on Mud Island. Exhibit CEO Jee Vahn Knight joins me to talk about this one of a kind adventure and says, “So if you’ve ever wanted to jump inside your favorite movie and have an open world exploration from the inside out… that’s what we’re building here.” Finally, our city is proud to claim an HBCU of its very own. LeMoyne-Owen College continues to stand proudly in South Memphis and is doing some great things. College President Dr. Christopher B. Davis joins me to talk about a busy time including the annual Gala and a few more surprises. This and more Monday, 6 pm both 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!

Episode Notes In honor of Women's History Month, I speak to one of the best people I know. Memphis businesswoman Beverly Robertson. We discuss her amazing career as mentor and trailblazer. Monday nite, 6pm on 91.7 FM WYXR and Facebook Live!

Episode Notes Guests include Rev. Dr Earle Fisher. On the eve of a very important and consequential election for our county, I ask him about that and his thoughts on the Memphis Safe Task Force, positive or negative. Next, our city made the news again, this time by a couple of NBA players regarding their past stays in our hotels...let’s just say it wasn’t a glowing report. Carol Silkes, hospitality expert joins me to discuss. Finally, radio broadcasting has grown by leaps and bounds and one of the biggest areas is the podcast. There are literally thousands and radio media expert Ena Esco explains the why and about her latest project as the program director of a new communications center at her Alma mater Lemoyne Owen College. That and more Monday, 6pm 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 Dr. Joseph B. Kyles, President of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Memphis. With the recent passing of Civil Rights icon Rev. Jessie Jackson, I wanted to speak to someone who knew him well and can reflect on his life and legacy. Next, the health of our community is always important so I thought it was time for an update. Dr. Bruce Randolph is the Interim Director of the Shelby County Health Department and he stops by to give us an update on what things to look out for and how we’re doing as a community. Last but not least, Stacy Lattisaw Jackson was a teen R\&B singer and star in the 80’s and 90’s. Some of her biggest hits include ‘Let Me Be Your Angel’, Love on a Two-Way Street, Miracles and a number 1 R\&B hit with Johnny Gill called ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ in 1989. In addition, she was the opening act on the Jackson’s Triumph Tour in 1981. I find out what the experience was like, why she retired so early and if there is a comeback in her future. That and more both on air and online Monday on WYXR 91.7 FM. Also, the WYXR app, Tunein, Facebook Live, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. It’s time to talk!

Episode Notes Let's keep it going with another great show coming your way as I celebrate Black History Month with you. Don't miss it Monday nite, 6pm on 91.7 FM WYXR

Episode Notes How fitting that we celebrate Black History Month with a guest who has a new book out that tells the story of the Civil Rights Movement from a man who was one of the architects of it, Reverend James Lawson Jr. He along with journalist and author Emily Yellin co-authored Nonviolent: A memoir of Resistance, Agitation, and Love. It speaks of his role in shaping nonviolent action during the sanitation workers strike in 1968. She explains why this such an important piece. My next guest knows directly about second chances. Stacy Hobson is a living kidney transplant recipient who understands the importance of donor and tissue donation. She tells me how we can all provide a future to someone made possible by one decision. Next, the focus and success of our children has been and continues to be a priority of Brian Harris who is the Director, Office of Youth Services for the city of Memphis as well as Special Assistant to the Mayor. He speaks to me about the road to success and some of the key programs his office sponsors including the MPLOY Youth Summer Experience jobs program taking registrations now. That and more, 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 first guest is someone many of you may have heard of. The name Valerie Calhoun is a very familiar one to Memphis and the Mid South. As the long time morning news Co-anchor at FOX13 along with Ernie Freeman, she wakes us up daily with the latest news and information. She and I both broke in this market in the mid 90’s as part of the first morning team of Good Morning Memphis and now, after many years it’s the long awaited reunion! Next, we are all familiar with the amazing non profit organization called MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association). They have supported the independence of vulnerable seniors and families in crisis. Sally Jones Heinz joined the organization in 2007 and became President and CEO in 2011 as the 6th person to hold the position. She recently announced her retirement and she joins me to share her time and experience after nearly 20 years. Lastly, Colin Burress began his career with the Memphis Fire Department in 1998. 28-years later after rising through the ranks, he was recently appointed Fire Chief of the City of Memphis Division of Fire Services. He joins me to talk about his journey and why giving back is in his DNA. That and more Monday, 6pm 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 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!