PODCAST · news
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson
by WQLN
The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today.In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the perspective of its next generation of voices – voices of those who are taking the lead on various aspects of the community. As it was during the days of the iconic Dr. King, the winds of change are often reflected in the actions and words of a younger and more idealistic age group.
Episodes
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Fathers, Legacy and Unanswered Questions: Donald Middleton & the Nolan Xavier Wells Case
This special dual episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson explores two powerful stories centered on family, legacy and the search for understanding. In the first half, Marcus sits down with Donald Middleton, author of the Conversations with My Dad book series and the newest addition to the BlaXcess...
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Speaking Truth to Power with Deonte Cooley
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson returns with a powerful community-centered conversation featuring activist, organizer, and media voice Deonte Cooley. From speaking passionately at Erie City and County Council meetings to organizing impactful community forums, Deonte has become one of the region’s most...
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GECAC and the Fight Against Poverty: Local Mission, National Impact
On this episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson, Marcus sits down with Ben Wilson, CEO of GECAC, to explore how one of Erie County’s most important human service agencies is connected to a much larger national movement. From senior services and workforce development to housing support, education,...
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Marcus Atkinson & Alex Staley on Mentorship, Media, and Growth
On this episode of NEXT 2.0, Marcus sits down with his engineer, 26-year-old Alex Staley, for a conversation that is years in the making. Marcus has mentored Alex since he was in the third grade through youth programs and media arts, and today, that relationship has come full circle in a powerful...
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Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata Join NEXT Live On Air
On this episode of NEXT, guest hosts Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata join Marcus Atkinson live on air for the very first time for a spirited and insightful conversation on the issues shaping our community and the country. From the Jefferson Elementary incident and Mayor Devlin’s leadership style…
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Giving Back, Lifting Up: Scholarships for Erie Youth
Erie pride is on full display as hometown champions Paul “Duke” Flemmings and Rhonda “Slupski” Caldwell join us in the studio to talk about the youth scholarships they’ve created—and the bigger mission behind them. They share the real stories that pushed them to give back, the impact they’re...
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Unlocking the Culture: NEXT2.0 Introduces the BlaXcess Media Radio Network
On this episode of NEXT2.0, host Marcus Atkinson pulls back the curtain on a major new chapter for local media: the launch of BlaXcess Media, a brand-new radio network operating under the Lilly Broadcasting umbrella on WICU-FM 92.7 HD2. Built to amplify culture, conversation, and community,...
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Leave the Twin Cities: When Federal Force Sparks a Citywide Outcry
In late January 2026, Minneapolis is in upheaval after two fatal shootings involving federal immigration enforcement—incidents that have ignited days of protest and renewed demands that ICE leave the Twin Cities. The latest flashpoint: Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and nurse, was killed on Jan. 24...
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Setting the record Straight on the MLK Center’s Executive Director Search
On this special and deeply personal episode of NEXT2.0, the tables are turned. NEXT2.0 host Marcus Atkinson steps out from behind the microphone as his co-hosts Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata take the lead, interviewing Marcus about his current role as Interim Director of the Martin Luther King...
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Is AI Leveling the Playing Field for Entrepreneurs?
As we head into 2026, entrepreneurship is surging—not just because of artificial intelligence, but because of a more profound shift in how people define work, opportunity, and success. While AI continues to dominate headlines, new data suggests that the future of entrepreneurship may be just as...
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Coaching and Legacy: Shannon Pulliam
Marcus Atkinson sits down with long-time basketball coach, Shannon Pulliam to discuss topics like coaching, mentorship and passing the torch.
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Bishop Quinn
Bishop Frankie Quinn and Marcus Atkinson sit down for an end-of-the-year discussion about resolutions, charity and blessings. Bishop Quinn also shares the story of how his church (of Christian faith) acquired a building that recently served as a Jewish synagogue.
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Deconstructing a Controversy: The Scholarly and Cultural Failings of a Public Essay
Host Chuck Cammarata leads a critical discussion with panelists Tyler Titus, Aaron Cronin, and Raven Cammarata on a recent, controversial public essay by Samantha Fulnecky. The conversation moves beyond initial reactions to analyze the work's fundamental academic shortcomings, its flawed cultural...
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Biblical Foundations: A Pastor's Call to Textual Integrity in Modern Christianity
Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Pastor Malcolm Beall and Pastor Kendall Hunter of Federated Church for a thoughtful discussion on scriptural fidelity in contemporary Christian practice. The pastors discuss the importance of grounding church teaching and personal faith in…
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A Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie
Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, the discussion...
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A New Political Era for Erie: Analyzing the Democratic Sweep and the Rise of Women Leaders
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.…
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The County Executive's Role: A Former Insider's Perspective with Kathy Dahlkemper
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…
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A Candidate's Vision: Christina Vogel on Leadership, Community, and Erie County's Future
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…
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Analyzing the 2026 Erie County Budget: A Conversation with Councilman Rock Copeland
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...
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The Future of Millcreek's Government: An Insider's Take with Supervisor Kim Clear
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...
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Streets, Sidewalks, and Systemic Change: Kylie Morris Runs for Millcreek Supervisor
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…
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Erie's Path Forward: A Conversation with County Executive Brenton Davis
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…
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DEI, Governance, and Community
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...
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Gerrymanders and Power Grabs: Defending Fair Elections
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...
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Formerly Addicted and Homeless: A Woman Shares Her Story
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...
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Attorney Ben Crump Shakes Up Erie
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...
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Race, Place & Belonging: Shining a Light in Erie
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...
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Gen Z, Who Are These People?
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...
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Being Black in Erie Part 1
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...
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The Tragic Death of Marchello Woodard
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"...
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Is the Spirit Behind the 4th of July Under Assault?
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…
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The Public’s Voices: What Happened, and What was the Public’s Response?
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...
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Boys II Men: A Journey in Mentoring
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,...
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It Takes a Village: 10 Years of the My Brother’s Keeper Scholarship
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...
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Redefining Fatherhood: A Conversation with Dr. Baker
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...
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One on One with Rock Copeland
In this week's episode of NEXT on WQLN, Marcus Atkinson sits down with County Councilman Rock Copeland to discuss the Democratic party's endorsement of Daria Devlin for Mayor of Erie, challenging incumbent Mayor Joe Schember. Copeland shares insights into the implications of this endorsement on...
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Primary Reflections: Erie County Votes and What Comes Next
In this fresh episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by intern Aaron Cronin to unpack the recent Erie County primary elections. From the surprising results of the mayoral race—featuring Daria Devlin—to shifts in the city council landscape, the team dives into the...
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Erie’s Embattled DEI Troubles Make National News
Erie’s recent DEI battles between its county government, county council, mayor, and black and brown community made national headlines via The Washington Post. In a time when newly elected President Trump has declared DEI programs anathema, how will ERIE respond? We’re joined by former Erie County...
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The Radicalization of Young White Men
In this timely and challenging episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Rev. Angela Denker—Lutheran pastor, journalist, and author of the new book Disciples of White Jesus: The Radicalization of American Boyhood. Together, they explore the unsettling trend of radicalization among...
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The History and Potential Danger of Gerrymandering
Today, we explore the contentious topic of partisan gerrymandering and its profound impact on our electoral system. Host Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Carol Kuniholm, Fair Districts PA's co-founder, expert on fair redistricting, and their NW PA Representative, Michael Bucell....
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Joe Schember – Building a Legacy
In this episode Chuck Cammarata chats with Mayor Joe Schember, running for a third term and a chance to extend his legacy of hope and service. When Joe originally ran for mayor he made it known that he wanted to rid the city of racism and make Erie a more welcoming city. He also inherited a city...
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If President Obama Had… (Fill in The Blank)
Would America's reaction to specific presidential actions differ if they were attributed to former President Obama rather than President Trump? The question of white (male) privilege, tolerance, and public perception weighs heavily on how political actions are judged in the public eye, shaping...
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This History and Importance of 100 Black Men of America Inc.
One Hundred Black Men began in 1963 to organize African American men to explore ways to improve conditions in Black communities. The national organization, The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., was established on October 2, 1986. The organization's objectives are focused on mentorship, leadership...
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Faith, Leadership, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Tyler Titus
In this insightful episode of NEXT 2.0, host Chuck Cammarata sits down with Dr. Tyler Titus, president of the Erie School Board and a dedicated advocate for youth in the foster system. As a full-time therapist and former director of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth, Dr. Titus has…
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Daria Devlin: A Vision for Erie’s Future
In this special episode of NEXT 2.0, co-host Chuck Cammarata and Marc Blount sit down with Daria Devlin, lifelong Erie resident and candidate for Mayor of Erie, Pennsylvania. With a deep commitment to health, education, and economic equity, Daria shares her vision for the city's future and the...
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Faith and Politics: Unpacking Christian Nationalism
In this thought-provoking episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata sit down with Amanda Tyler, lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism, and Professor Jeff Bloodworth, an expert in modern American political history and genocide studies, to define and...
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Sister Lou: A Legacy of Faith, Community, and Change
In this heartfelt episode of NEXT 2.0, special guest host Daryl Craig—better known as Brother D—leads a powerful conversation honoring the life and legacy of Sister Lou, one of Erie’s most influential and respected community figures. Joined by friends and family, Brother D explores the profound...
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Undocumented Stories
Stories have power. Humans have always known this. We have been telling stories for millennia. Stories break down unexamined stereotypes, and connect us with one another. They build bridges and increase understanding – and ultimately are tools for building peace and cooperation. Unfortunately we...
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Fighting for Justice: The ACLU’s Battle Against Executive Overreach
In this thought-provoking episode of NEXT 2.0, co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata, along with returning guest Marc Blount, sit down with Vic Walczak, Legal Director of the ACLU, to discuss the fight against unjust executive orders. Vic shares the ACLU’s ongoing efforts to challenge...
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Art, Identity, and the Super Bowl Halftime Show
In this dynamic episode of NEXT 2.0, host Marcus Atkinson brings together a panel of creatives and thought leaders to unpack the cultural significance of the latest Super Bowl halftime show. Joining the discussion are Kimberly Spidle, who empowers Black women to build confidence; Mercury Moon, a...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today.In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the perspective of its next generation of voices – voices of those who are taking the lead on various aspects of the community. As it was during the days of the iconic Dr. King, the winds of change are often reflected in the actions and words of a younger and more idealistic age group.
HOSTED BY
WQLN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does NEXT with Marcus Atkinson have?
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson currently has 162 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is NEXT with Marcus Atkinson about?
The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today.In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the...
How often does NEXT with Marcus Atkinson release new episodes?
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson publishes regularly with 162 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to NEXT with Marcus Atkinson?
You can listen to NEXT with Marcus Atkinson on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts NEXT with Marcus Atkinson?
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson is created and hosted by WQLN.
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