Loraine Ballard Morrill

Loraine Ballard Morrill

Listen to Loraine on Insight on Sundays 6-7am + keep up on her latest news updates here!Full Bio

What's Going On: Launching Careers & "SpeakOUT" Legislative Attacks on LGBTQIA+ Rights

Insight Pt 2: Justice, Second Chances & The Power of Art

Pulitzer Prize-winning podcaster, educator, and returning citizen Suave Gonzalez joins us with Julietta Martinelli, senior producer and reporter at Futuro Media, to discuss the remarkable story of Frank Ross, who was released from prison at the age of 93 after serving nearly 50 years. Ross's release raises important questions about compassionate release, aging in prison, and whether our justice system provides meaningful opportunities for mercy.

The two also discuss the case of Michi (Marie Scott) which examines the specific reproductive and trauma related healthcare challenges women in prison face.   Drawing from his own lived experience and award-winning journalism, Suave shares why Frank and Michi's  story matter, what it reveals about the challenges facing elderly incarcerated individuals, and how storytelling can influence public understanding and policy.
Learn more:
https://futuroinvestigates.org/investigative-stories/released-to-die/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suave/id1548544921
Follow
  • Instagram: @futuromedia
  • X: @futuromedia
  • Facebook: Futuro Media

🎨 The Life of an Artist
In our second segment, Philadelphia Youth Network WorkReady student Omar Burnett interviews his former teacher and mentor, Philadelphia artist James Jones. A painter, graphic designer, educator, and father, Jones reflects on his artistic journey, his passion for teaching, and his transition back to creating his own fine art. He explains why he sees art as problem-solving, how he encourages students to find their own creative voice, and why authenticity matters more than perfection. It's an inspiring conversation about mentorship, creativity, and the lifelong pursuit of purpose—through both art and education.

Resources

Insight Pt 1: Strengthening Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is strengthening its response to sexual violence. The Philadelphia Sexual Assault Response Center (PSARC) has officially transitioned to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, ensuring stable funding and continued access to 24/7, trauma-informed medical and forensic care for survivors. On this episode of Insight, Philadelphia City Council At-Large member and Public Health Committee Chair Dr. Nina Ahmad discusses the advocacy that helped secure permanent City funding for PSARC, why this transition is so important, and what more Philadelphia must do to support survivors and prevent sexual violence.
Resources: 

City Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad
Philadelphia Sexual Assault Response Center (PSARC)
WOAR – Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence
  • Website: https://www.woar.org
  • 24/7 Crisis Hotline (Call or Text): 215-985-3333
  • Main Office: 215-985-3315
  • Instagram: @woarphila
  • Facebook: WOAR Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence
Philadelphia Police Department – Special Victims Unit
Philadelphia District Attorney's Office
Need Help Now?

What’s Going On: Benjamin Franklin Rocks & A Gluten-Free Celebration

What if Benjamin Franklin was America's very first rock star? On this episode of What's Going On, we meet the creative team behind The Sound of America, an original Philadelphia musical that reimagines one of our nation's Founding Fathers through 23 original rock songs, an all-Philadelphia cast, and an unforgettable theatrical experience. Actor Kohl Pilgrim, who stars as Benjamin Franklin and Kaedon Knight, who plays the villain, Lord Alexander Wedderburn, discuss the inspiration behind the production, its unique post-show walking tours through historic Old City, and why supporting Teen Cancer America is at the heart of the show. The Sound of America:
  • Now through August 1, 2026
  • FringeArts, Philadelphia
  • Features an all-local cast, original music, and post-show Old City walking tours.
  • A portion of ticket proceeds benefits Teen Cancer America.
Website: https://www.thesoundofamericamusical.com
Instagram: @soundofamericamusical
Facebook: @soundofamericamusical

Then, we head to Oaks for one of the nation's largest celebrations of gluten-free living. Abby Helman Kelly, founder of the Wicked Gluten Free Expo & Food Festival, joins us to talk about creating a safe and delicious experience for people living with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and food allergies. Learn what visitors can expect from more than 110 gluten-free vendors, cooking demonstrations, family activities, and a special "Freedom from Gluten" celebration honoring America's 250th anniversary. Wicked Gluten Free Expo & Food Festival:
  • Saturday, July 18, 2026
  • 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
  • 100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA
  • More than 110 gluten-free restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, brands, and exhibitors.
  • Timed-entry tickets start at $27.50 for adults and $8 for children ages 6–12. Children 5 and under are free, and parking is included.
Website: https://wickedglutenfree.com
Facebook: Wicked Gluten Free
Instagram: @wickedglutenfree

Insight Pt. 2: Standing Against Hate & Preparing for the Future of Work

On this episode of Insight, we discuss two important issues affecting our communities today. First, following the attempted arson attack at the Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center, we speak with Ahmet Tekelioglu, Executive Director of CAIR-Philadelphia, about the impact of the attack, the community's response, the importance of interfaith solidarity, and how residents can stand against hate and support religious freedom. Resources:
Then, we examine the challenges facing today's college graduates as artificial intelligence reshapes the hiring landscape. Julia Toothacre, Chief Career Strategist at ResumeTemplates.com, explains what employers are looking for, why entry-level hiring is changing, and the practical skills recent graduates need to compete and succeed in today's evolving workforce. Resources:

Insight Pt. 1: Wicked Gluten Free Expo & Food Festival

We head to Oaks for one of the nation's largest celebrations of gluten-free living. Abby Helman Kelly, founder of the Wicked Gluten Free Expo & Food Festival, joins us to talk about creating a safe and delicious experience for people living with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and food allergies. Learn what visitors can expect from more than 110 gluten-free vendors, cooking demonstrations, family activities, and a special "Freedom from Gluten" celebration honoring America's 250th anniversary. Wicked Gluten Free Expo & Food Festival
  • Saturday, July 18, 2026
  • 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
  • 100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA
  • More than 110 gluten-free restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, brands, and exhibitors.
  • Timed-entry tickets start at $27.50 for adults and $8 for children ages 6–12. Children 5 and under are free, and parking is included.
Website: https://wickedglutenfree.com
Facebook: Wicked Gluten Free
Instagram: @wickedglutenfree

What's Going On: Wells Fargo Help for Homebuyers, Moms Clean Air Force, Venezuela Earthquake Relief

Building the Dream of Homeownership with Wells Fargo
Homeownership remains one of the most powerful ways to build wealth, strengthen communities, and create generational opportunity. On this episode of Insight, we're joined by Ernest L. Campbell Sr. and Gustavo Laserna from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Together, they discuss practical steps first-time homebuyers can take to prepare for homeownership, explain how Wells Fargo's Dream. Plan. Home.® program and Homebuyer Access Grant can help reduce upfront costs, and share how community partnerships are expanding access to affordable homeownership throughout the region. They explain why financial education is the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or simply planning for the future, this conversation offers valuable guidance and resources.
 Resources: ·        
🎙️Clean Air, Climate Policy & Our Families
Today we’re talking about clean air, climate policy, and what it all means for our families. Joining us is Patrice Tomcik, Senior National Field Director for Moms Clean Air Force, where she leads national field programs, campaigns, and operations. Moms Clean Air Force partners with Environmental Defense Fund to advocate for strong environmental protections that safeguard children’s health. Patrice’s advocacy began when gas wells were permitted to be fracked just a half mile from her children’s schools in southwestern Pennsylvania — a moment that transformed her into a national voice for clean air protections.

In this episode, we break down what the “Endangerment Finding” means, why it’s under legal challenge, and how climate and air pollution policies directly affect families — especially in urban communities.
Learn more:
🌐 Environmental Defense Fund: https://www.edf.org/ Follow Environmental Defense Fund:
📲 X: https://x.com/envdefensefund
📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/environmental_defense_fund
📲 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnvDefenseFund/
📲 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@environmental_defense_fund
Follow Moms Clean Air Force:
🌐 https://www.momscleanairforce.org/
📲 Instagram: @momscleanairforce
📲 Facebook: Moms Clean Air Force  

Helping Venezuela After the Earthquake
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela, thousands of families are facing enormous challenges as rescue, recovery, and humanitarian relief efforts continue. International aid organizations and community partners are working to provide food, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies to those affected. On this episode of What's Going On, we're joined by Carmen Line, founder and executive director of the Del Carmen Foundation. She discusses the impact of the disaster on communities throughout Venezuela, the urgent humanitarian needs on the ground, and how people here can make a meaningful difference through donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships. If you've been looking for a trusted way to help, this conversation provides practical information on how your support can bring hope to families during this difficult time.
How to Help:

Insight Pt. 2: Wells Fargo Help for Homebuyers, Celebrate Mantua, Venezuela Earthquake Relief

Building the Dream of Homeownership with Wells Fargo
Homeownership remains one of the most powerful ways to build wealth, strengthen communities, and create generational opportunity. On this episode of Insight, we're joined by Ernest L. Campbell Sr. and Gustavo Laserna from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Together, they discuss practical steps first-time homebuyers can take to prepare for homeownership, explain how Wells Fargo's Dream. Plan. Home.® program and Homebuyer Access Grant can help reduce upfront costs, and share how community partnerships are expanding access to affordable homeownership throughout the region. They also explain why financial education is the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or simply planning for the future, this conversation offers valuable guidance and resources. Resources: ·        
 
Celebrate Mantua – 250 Black Moves
Movement is more than dance—it's history, culture, resilience, and community. On this episode of Insight, we welcome Iquail Shaheed, Executive Artistic Director of DANCE IQUAIL!, to discuss the upcoming Celebrate Mantua Festival and this year's inspiring theme, "250 Black Moves." Iquail shares how the festival grew from the 2020 Art Thrives from Black Lives rally into one of West Philadelphia's signature community celebrations. We also discuss how dance, wellness, education, and the arts can foster belonging, inspire young people, and preserve the rich legacy of Black movement and activism. Plus, hear about the exciting vision for the new Mantua Enterprise for Community, Culture, and Artistry. Event Details Celebrate Mantua Festival
  • 📅 Saturday, July 11, 2026
  • 📍 Miles Mack Playground, West Philadelphia
  • 🎉 FREE admission
  • Featuring live performances, drill teams, youth showcases, wellness activities, food trucks, family fun, and community resources.
Learn More

Helping Venezuela After the Earthquake
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela, thousands of families are facing enormous challenges as rescue, recovery, and humanitarian relief efforts continue. International aid organizations and community partners are working to provide food, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies to those affected. On this episode of What's Going On, we're joined by Carmen Line, founder and executive director of the Del Carmen Foundation. She discusses the impact of the disaster on communities throughout Venezuela, the urgent humanitarian needs on the ground, and how people here can make a meaningful difference through donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships. If you've been looking for a trusted way to help, this conversation provides practical information on how your support can bring hope to families during this difficult time. How to Help

Insight Pt. 1: Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambatti - VLS Journeys

This week on Insight, guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambatti uncovers hidden chapters of American history with renowned historical archaeologist, author, and preservationist Dr. Cheryl LaRoche. Dr. LaRoche discusses her latest book, Apostle of Liberation: AME Bishop Paul Quinn and the Underground Railroad, and shares how archaeology, historical research, and storytelling are helping preserve the legacy of free Black communities and the Underground Railroad. She also previews a special community event in Philadelphia celebrating history, culture, and preservation.  

Then, in her monthly feature "What Is Philadelphia Reading?" Vanesse welcomes Richard E. Ashby, Jr., Director of the Sharon Hill Public Library, President of the Pennsylvania Library Association, and Co-Founder of Literacy Nation. Ashby discusses the importance of libraries, literacy, and supporting independent authors across Pennsylvania through initiatives like Delco Reads. He also invites listeners to the upcoming Literacy Nation Independent Authors Book Fair, a free community event connecting readers, writers, and local authors.   Whether you're passionate about history, books, or lifelong learning, this episode celebrates the power of stories to educate, inspire, and connect communities.  

Featured Event – Dr. Cheryl LaRoche
Monday, July 6, 2026
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
LOVE LAB at The Fashion District Philadelphia
932 Market Street, Philadelphia  

Literacy Nation Independent Authors Book Fair
Saturday, August 8, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Container Village
West Philadelphia
Free and open to the public.  

Resources
• Dr. Cheryl LaRoche: https://www.drcheryllaroche.com
• Literacy Nation: https://www.literacynation.org
• Pennsylvania Library Association: https://www.palibraries.org

 Follow Our Guests
Dr. Cheryl LaRoche
• Instagram: @drcheryllaroche
• Facebook: Dr. Cheryl LaRoche
• LinkedIn: Cheryl LaRoche  

Richard E. Ashby, Jr. / Literacy Nation
  • https://literacynationinc.org/
  • Email: contact@literacynation.org
  • Facebook: Literacy Nation 

What's Going On: Compassion Cafe, Elevate 215, Africatown Diaspora Fest, FCC & 6ABC

On this episode of What's Going On, we explore two inspiring stories about creating opportunities, building community, and empowering people to thrive.

First, we travel to the Jersey Shore to learn about Compassion Cafe, a unique nonprofit coffee shop that is changing lives through meaningful employment. Sue Sharkey, Co-Founder and Trustee of Compassion Cafe, joins us to discuss the organization's mission of providing paid employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Now celebrating its sixth season, Compassion Cafe has become a beloved destination at the Sea Shell Resort in Beach Haven, New Jersey, where employees not only serve coffee and light fare but also share their talents through music, poetry, art, and personal connections that leave a lasting impact on visitors. We'll talk about the power of inclusion, dignity in the workplace, and how community support continues to fuel the cafe's success.
📍 Compassion Cafe
Oceanfront at The Sea Shell Resort & Beach Club
10 N. Delaware Avenue
Beach Haven, NJ 08008
🌐 Website: https://www.compassioncafe.org
📸 Instagram: @compassioncafelbi
📘 Facebook: Compassion Cafe LBI

Next, we welcome Dr. Stacy Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215, to discuss the first year of Apply Philly Charter's new Rank and Match enrollment system. The innovative approach is helping Philadelphia families navigate school choice more easily by allowing them to rank schools based on preference and receive placement offers through a streamlined process. Dr. Holland shares what the first-year results reveal, lessons learned, and what families can expect moving forward. 
🎓 Apply Philly Charter / Elevate 215 2025-26 Results:
 🌐 Website: https://www.elevate215.org
 📸 Instagram: @elevate_215
💼 LinkedIn: Elevate 215 Guest:

Don't miss one of Philadelphia's signature cultural celebrations of the summer. The Africatown Diaspora Festival and PHL250 Celebration takes place Sunday, June 28, from Noon to 8 p.m. along the 5900–6500 blocks of Woodland Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia. The free, family-friendly event features live music, cultural performances, food vendors, merchandise, and a celebration of African, Caribbean, and African American culture under the theme, "One People • One Cause • One Destiny."
 📅 Sunday, June 28, 2026
🕛 Noon – 8:00 PM  5900–6500 Woodland Avenue, Southwest Philadelphia
🎟️ Free and Open to the Public
🌐 https://www.acanaus.org
🌐 https://www.africatownphilly.org
📸 Instagram: @acanaus
📸 Instagram: @africatownphilly

Finally - an editorial about the FCC's move to challenge the TV licence of 6ABC and what that means for all of us.

Join us as we celebrate inclusion, educational opportunity, and the rich cultural traditions that continue to strengthen our communities.