Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

Acts On Stage has premiered "Black Man Goes To Therapy," a new play written by and starring Jeremy Rubin. The production addresses the critical, often-avoided discussion of mental health, healing, and vulnerability among Black men. The narrative follows a reluctant wanderer who, through an encounter with a struggling therapist, is compelled to confront his past, pain, and potential for healing, adeptly blending humor, emotion, and reflection.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

New legal claims filed by veteran Black Seattle police officers Michael Griffin and Corey Foy are raising renewed questions about workplace culture, accountability, and racial discrimination within the Seattle Police Department. Filed in King County Superior Court by Attorney James Bible, these claims detail allegations of years of racial harassment, unequal treatment, retaliation, and hostile workplace conditions.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black entrepreneurs in Seattle are confronting increasing pressure from rising costs, labor shortages, economic uncertainty, and shifting political and policy landscapes, challenging the traditional promise of entrepreneurial stability and resurfacing past hardships for many local Black business owners. This critical situation, highlighted by figures such as Lillian Rambus of Simply Soulful Café and Red Jackson of Lil Red's Takeout & Catering, underscores a growing struggle for survival within the community.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Linda Taylor has been appointed Chief Programs Officer for the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, following nearly three decades of dedicated service. Her elevation signifies the organization's commitment to institutional memory, community-rooted leadership, and bridging generational gaps in leadership and community work. With the Urban League approaching a century of service, Taylor's new role highlights the ongoing importance of legacy, leadership, and sustaining mission-driven initiatives.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium has launched the inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Reader’s Choice Awards, a new community-driven initiative designed to celebrate individuals, businesses, organizations, and leaders making significant contributions across the Pacific Northwest. This campaign aims to recognize impactful efforts in diverse areas, including business, education, food, wellness, youth programs, and community leadership. Currently in its nominations phase, the program emphasizes the critical importance of community participation in identifying those who will advance to the final voting round.

Josiah Scott shares more about the Best of the Best on this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Public Schools is set to implement a new district-wide cell phone policy next week, mandating that students keep their devices powered off and out of sight throughout the school day. The initiative aims to enhance student focus, minimize classroom distractions, and establish uniform expectations across all district campuses. The policy introduces more stringent regulations for younger students, while high schoolers will be permitted limited usage. Seattle Public School's Superintendent Ben Shuldiner shares more details about the new policy on this episode of the Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Black Panther Park has officially opened in Skyway, Seattle, marking a significant community achievement dedicated to preserving the legacy of Seattle's Black Panther Party. The new space, spearheaded by Nurturing Roots and founder Nyema Clark, aims to commemorate the Party's historical contributions to community empowerment, food justice, and self-determination. It features public art, community resources, and designated areas for gathering, reflection, and healing, reflecting a long-standing community effort to honor this impactful heritage.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

A new report from Washington state reveals a pervasive issue of workplace harm affecting Black women. Conducted by the Washington State Women’s Commission and Blacks United in Leadership & Diversity, the survey found that nearly every Black woman reported experiencing microaggressions, exclusion, and barriers to advancement, despite their qualifications and commitment to public service. This finding emerges amidst a period where over 300,000 Black women nationwide have lost their jobs, often coinciding with the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Ayanna Colman, Chief Human Resources Officer for the Office of Administrative Hearings, shares more about the report on this episode of the Rythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle has appointed Seattle native James Bush as its new Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. This significant leadership change marks a new chapter for the organization, aiming for expanded impact and growth across the region. In his new role, Bush will be central to shaping the delivery of critical services, including housing, education, workforce development, and public health, reinforcing the Urban League's commitment to community well-being.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The City of Seattle has announced a street designation in honor of Rev. Dr. Robert L. Manaway Sr., recognizing his more than 40 years of leadership as the senior pastor of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. Under his guidance, the church has expanded from a small congregation to a cornerstone institution serving over 1,700 members, significantly impacting the community through initiatives addressing housing, food security, and broader community support.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.