PODCAST · society
Rooted in Progress with Deanne King
by WFLA Now
Join hosts Deanne King and Terrance Middlebrooks at the kitchen table. Every week, Rooted In Progress will focus on an issue impacting the black Tampa Bay community with topics like gentrification, Tampa's racial conciliation committee, and more.
Episodes
-
Part 2: Behind the Scenes of "Paper Made" with USF Professor Ryan Watson | Rooted in Progress
Ryan Watson is currently traveling the country promoting his latest film, Paper Made. The USF Professor shares how he balances being in the classroom along with entrepreneurship, getting funding for major projects, utilizing campus resources and more. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted...
-
NEW TEAM, NEW ERA: Professional Women's Basketball Upshot League Comes to Tampa | Rooted in Progress
Upshot League is bringing a professional women's basketball team to Tampa and we're talking about everything it's taking to get this team up and running by May of 2027. From hiring a head coach, filling the stands and coming up with a name. Senior Vice President of Upshot Tampa, Mercedes Gorge…
more -
A Different World Sequel: Behind the Scenes with Actress Kennedi Reece | Rooted in Progress
Netflix's A Different World sequel takes viewers back to Hillman College and follows a new set of college students four decades after the late 80s and 90s sitcom. Actress, Kennedi Reece, who plays Hazel, takes us behind the scenes and gives some insight into Season 2. ----- Connect with Rooted in...
-
Nolan Wells: What Happens Next After Mississippi Grand Jury Doesn't Indict | Rooted in Progress
Civil Rights and Social Justice Attorney, Michele Rayner explains what happens next with the Nolan Wells after a Mississippi grand jury found insufficient evidence to criminally charge anyone in the death of 18-year-old, Nolan Wells.
-
Celebrating 100 Years of History: Leonard Reid House | Rooted in Progress
Sarasota's historic Leonard Reid House is celebrating 100 years. The CEO/President of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition talks about the history of the Reid family, Newtown and how the organization is preserving and honoring Black History. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress!…
more -
Former Bucs Player Ian Beckles Talks Life After NFL | Rooted in Progress
Rooted in Progress celebrates its 100th episode! We talk with former Tampa Buccaneers player Ian Beckles about life after his 7 seasons in the NFL . Beckles shares how the league has changed from the 90s, his thoughts on the Bucs ahead of their home opener and his new ventures, including a Kava...
-
Behind the Badge: Getting to know Tampa Fire Chief Barbara Tripp | Rooted in Progress
Chief Barbara Tripp is the first black woman to serve as chief of Tampa Fire Rescue. During this episode we discuss her 30 years of serving this community, adversity she faced while being a minority in this field. We also get an update on the department's operations and future outlook. Connect…
more -
From Dolly to BLM Murals: Beyond the Brush with Visual Artist Cam Parker
Cam Parker is the mind and talent behind countless murals across Tampa Bay. In this episode of Rooted, he shares what fuels his passion while also discussing how he uses his talent and voice to advocate for so many. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube:...
-
Tampa Entrepreneur Launches BIG Fest: Tampa's Largest Free Black Business Expo | Rooted in Progress
Camille-Adrienne Washington is the Founder/CEO of Indie Noire Market and the Camille-Adrienne Foundation, and she's bringing with biggest Black Business Expo to Tampa Bay, and it's free. She talks about her passion behind the project and the impact to local entrepreneurs and the community at…
more -
Paper Made: USF Professor Blends Martial Arts, Black History and Greek Life in New Film | Rooted in Progress
Ryan Watson, A University of South Florida professor, is mixing Black history, martial arts and Greek life in his latest film: Paper Made. He joined Rooted, alongside Myles Truitt, who stares in the film, to discuss the inspiration, its intended impact and the making of the historic film. -----...
-
Update on Nolan Wells Death Investigation | Rooted in Progress
Nolan Wells was found dead after going on a boat trip with friends and so many questions still remain as to what happened to him. In this episode of Rooted in Progress we provide the most up-to-date timeline and latest details surrounding the death investigation into 18-year-old, Nolan Wells.…
more -
St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch Discusses Promises and Progress on the Gas Plant District | Rooted in Progress (unlisted upload)
After four decades, St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch is moving forward with the Historic Gas Plant District Redevelopment Project. He talks about who's paying for it, how long development will take, the affordable housing options included and more. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in...
-
Swimming Toward History: Maritza McClendon's Journey to the Olympic Podium | Rooted in Progress (first upload, unlisted)
Maritza McClendon was diagnosed with scoliosis at 6 years old and instead of surgery she turned to swimming and eventually made history as the first woman of color to make the U.S. Olympic team. Hear how she pushed through physical and familial obstacles to earn an Olympic medal. ----- Connect…
more -
Kym Whitley Talks Comedy, Family and New TV Series | Rooted in Progress
Award-winning actress, comedian and podcast host, Kym Whitley, has been on our TV screens for decades and she's talking about her new comedy tour, new TV series and how she's always been able to evolve throughout her career. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube:...
-
Getting Motivated with McIntyre: Army Vet Uses Platform to Inspire Children | Rooted in Progress
Jay R McIntyre is an army veteran who is using his experiences in the military and growing up in California as a way to motivate the next generation. See how he uses his platform to inspire veterans and children from underserved communities. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in…
more -
'The Lorraine' Stage Play: Uncovering More Than MLK's Assassination | Rooted in Progress
"The Lorraine' stage play is coming to Tampa and it takes audiences on a journey of the historic Lorraine Motel. Hear from Tampa native Writer/Producer Marvin Coleman and actress Latraia Savage who share the meaning behind the play. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on...
-
Celebrating 2 Years of Excellence | Rooted in Progress
Rooted in Progress celebrates two years of impact and excellence with special guests and shoutouts locally and globally. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3zeThMU Rooted in Progress on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z5k66m Rooted in Progress on Apple...
-
St. Pete Police Chief talks 'teen takeovers' | Rooted in Progress
St. Pete Police Chief Anthony Holloway is live on Rooted in Progress to discuss ways to prevent rowdy "teen takeovers" and free programs available to children and teens.
-
Hue Ave. Creates Pathways for Underrepresented Communities in TV and Film | Rooted in Progress
Hue Ave Inc. is a new non-profit based in St Petersburg that's creating opportunities for underrepresented communities to break into the TV and Film industries. The Founder and Executive Director, Tamia Iman Kennedy, shares the opportunities and mission behind the organization. ----- Connect with...
-
Make a Joyful Noise: Gospel workshop returns to Tampa | Rooted in Progress
A powerful weekend of faith, harmony, and community connection is returning to the Tampa Bay area next week. Musicians, singers, songwriters, producers- this is for you! ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3zeThMU Rooted in Progress on Spotify:...
-
‘Banking While Black’: Attorneys reactions to viral video | Rooted in Progress
A Chase Bank employee in Tampa called 911 on a Black man whom they called 'suspicious' as he waited in his car for the bank to open, all caught on body camera video. Attorneys Michele Rayner and Grady Irvin share their thoughts and potential next legal steps for the man involved. ----- Connect…
more -
A Mother Discharged from Hospital While in Labor Turns Trauma into Advocacy | Rooted in Progress
Mercedes and Leon Wells were denied care at an Illinois hospital while in active care and ultimately delivered their baby on the side of the road. They are now turning their traumatic experience into advocacy with their Luv to Love Organization providing resources and education to pregnant and...
-
Getting to the Root of Hair Discrimination | Rooted in Progress
States are beginning to curb hair discrimination in the workplace and in school through new laws, including the Crown Act. Hairstylist and Salon Owner, Latoya Rucker, talks about the growth in educating all stylists on all hair textures, while also sharing how she's educating the next generation…
more -
FAMU's Head Drum Major Talks Historic College Career, Faith and Her Future
Oluwamodupe Oloyede is the first female head drum major for the Marching 100 band at FAMU. As she approaches graduation, she looks back on her many blessings including her ''Sinners' performance at the Oscars, viral Delta Sigma Theta new member presentation and making history as FAMU's first…
more -
Redefining Wealth and Success with Dr. Renée Baker | Rooted in Progress
Building wealth may sound like a morbid idea in today's economy, but financial expert and serial entrepreneur, Dr. Renée Baker shares how you can start to build wealth and success despite today's economy. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3zeThMU...
-
Yung Joc & B5 Discuss B2K Bow Wow Boys 4 Life Tour | Rooted in Progress
Grammy Nominated Rapper, Yung Joc and St. Petersburg Natives and R & B Group, B5, talked about the past, present and future ahead of their Tampa stop on the B2K Bow Wow Boys 4 Life Tour. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3zeThMU Rooted in…
more -
Hope & Healing: Licensed Mental Health Counselor Shares Resources | Rooted in Progress
At a time when things are really heavy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Dr. Karmen Smith, shares advice and resources to help maintain a healthy mental state. Founder of 3H Counseling in Pinellas County, Smith talks about warning signs, treatment options and how to take the first step to…
more -
Tampa Entrepreneur Honors Mom's Legacy through Women's Empowerment Event | Rooted in Progress
Pamela Pacheco is an entrepreneur, life coach and mentor who is carrying out her mother's legacy by pouring into other women through her Women Winning Wars Empowerment event. Hear what fuels her passion and how women can grow and flourish through this event. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress!...
-
Laugh out Loud with Comedian/Actor Rod Minger | Rooted in Progress
Atlanta-based comedian, actor and internet sensation, Rod Minger, stopped by Rooted in Progress to share his journey through the entertainment and comedy industries. Hear what upcoming projects the viral sensation has coming out soon. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in Progress on...
-
Honoring Black History: Preview to our Special | Rooted in Progress
On today's episode of Rooted in Progress, we are giving you a sneak peak at our Black History Month Special titled "Voices of Mercy Hospital". During the 30-minute program we shine a light on a untold piece of history in 1920s St. Petersburg. You will hear from a woman born at the hospital, a...
-
Honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson | Rooted in Progress
Civil Rights leader and Baptist Minister, Rev. Jesse Jackson, inspired and changed our nation and the world. His last couple of visits to Tampa Bay took place at the 34th Street Church of God, and Bishop Thomas Scott shared the impact that visit had on his church and our city. ----- Connect with...
-
Sam Barrington: From USF to chasing a Super Bowl ring in the NFL
NFL Veteran and USF Alum, Sam Barrington, used his 5 years of NFL experience to help catapult his entrepreneurial career in the crane and rigging business. The father, entrepreneur and philanthropist shares his journey to the NFL and life afterwards. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted…
more -
The History of Grand Krewe De Libertalia | Rooted in Progress
We take you decades back, before people of all ethnic backgrounds were welcomed to participate in Gasparilla and the pirate invasion. The Grand Krewe De Libertalia shares their role on intergrating the parade and discuss their community work. ----- Connect with Rooted in Progress! Rooted in...
-
From Historic 'Sinners' Oscar Noms to Historic Civil Rights Trolley Rides in St. Pete | Rooted in Progress
Award season continues in Hollywood. Nominations for the most coveted night were released this morning. Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” has made history with 16 nominations for the 2025 film. Those nominations include best lead actor, best director, best picture and best original score. ----- Connect…
more -
Our Voice, Our Destiny: Honoring Dr. King's Life and Legacy | Rooted in Progress
The Tampa Organization of Black Affairs is getting ready for its 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast. One of the original members, James Ransom, takes us through the decades of service TOBA has rendered across Tampa Bay. This year's breakfast co-hosts, Candace Cowen and...
-
Revealing Truth Ministries: Building Community through Arts & Outreach Initiatives | Rooted in Progress
Pastor Bryan Powe, of Revealing Truth Ministries in Tampa is not only sharing words of encouragement, but also sharing the wide variety of community initiatives open to the Tampa Bay community. Hear how he's using his role as Pastor to make a difference in the community. ----- Connect with Rooted...
-
Turning Scripts Into Pages: Tiffany Black Talks 'This Christmas in Love' | Rooted in Progress
St. Petersburg native, Tiffany Black, is an actress, writer, producer and author who is taking the industry by storm. Her latest project, This Christmas in Love, is a book about love, friendship and self-discovery. Tiffany shares the inspiration behind her book and what readers can expect in the...
-
Bucs Rookie Spotlights Domestic Violence Advocacy After Mother's Story of Survival | Rooted in Progress
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Defensive Lineman, Elijah Roberts, is using his NFL platform to advocate for survivors of domestic violence through his mother's non-profit, Pain 2 Purpose.
-
The Voices of Triumph: The Making of a Civil Rights Documentary
We're taking you behind the scene of the new WEDU PBS documentary, Triumph: Tampa's Untold Chapter in the Civil Rights Movement. The film shares the stories of Black high school students who conducted sit ins, which ultimately desegregated Tampa. Triumph's Producer and Director, Danny Bruno, and...
-
Digital Healing for Heroes: A Look into a new Free Mental Health App for Vets
Coping and dealing with mental health is important to so many, but especially to our nation's heroes. In this episode of Rooted in Progress we discuss several free options for veterans across the state of Florida, including a new, free, mental health app: Here Now Help. ----- Connect with Rooted…
more -
Mother discharged from hospital while in labor shares her story & advocates for change
Mercedes and Leon Wells are sharing their heartbreaking story of being forced to leave an Indiana hospital while in active labor. Together, the Wells describe delivering their baby on the side of the road and how they are now pushing for change. Tampa nurse and doula, Yamel Belen, shares how this...
-
Community, Culture & Cuisine: 7th + Grove Owners Discuss their Recipe for Success and Impact
Mixing community, culture and cuisine isn't just for show for Khalilah McDuffie and Dr. Jamaris Glenn, it's in their DNA. As owners of 7th + Grove and Madame Fortune, the two entrepreneurs have built businesses built on faith, community and Black history. Tune in to hear the lessons they've…
more -
TBABJ Honoring Journalistic Excellence with Return of Griot Drum Awards | Rooted in Progress
The Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists is bringing back its esteem Griot Drum Awards Banquet. Local journalists will be honored for their community work and leaders will be honored as well for their selflessness. WFLA's Marilyn Parker, TBABJ's Secretary, and Kenya Woodard, journalist and...
-
Enough is Enough: Domestic Violence Abuse Survivors Share their Stories of Resilence | Rooted in Progress
As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to an end, two brave survivors open up about the moment they chose freedom. One found healing in baking after escaping New York; another fled California with nothing but her baby and a bag of hope. She now has a foundation to help other women living...
-
Built on Passion: The Success Behind Mangos Southern Kitchen + Bar | Rooted in Progress
David and Nadege Andre, the owners of Mangos Southern Kitchen + Bar in Tampa, share their journey from hosting events to opening two restaurants. They say they always felt purpose in community and knew their love in the kitchen will translate to entrepreneurship.
-
Unfiltered Before the Stage: Aries Spears Unplugged | Rooted in Progress
A weekend of jokes, roasts and maybe some impressions. Over the next few days, Aries Spears takes over Funny Bone Tampa for three nights of shows. But before he took the stage to deliver jokes, he delivered gems and the story of how he got started with us
-
Changing the Narrative on Down Syndrome | Rooted in Progresss
Every October we celebrate multiple themes: Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness. However, Down Syndrome Awareness is not often in the spotlight, that's until now. The Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay, Craig Woodard Sr. shines a light on the...
-
Entrepreneurship, Community and People: Getting to know Gary Hartfield | Rooted in Progress
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Tampa Bay serial entrepreneur Gary Hartfield. Not only is he a business and family man, Hartfield is also an author, motivational speaker, and dedicated community advocate. He shares his journey with us -- and it's nothing short of inspiring.
-
Tampa ends Racial Reconciliation Committee | Rooted in Progress
The City of Tampa has ended the Racial Conciliation Commitee to comply with federal law. The committee was disbanded without a vote among councilmembers. So where do we go from here? Committee Chairwoman Connie Burton and NAACP President in Hillsborough County Yvette Lewis joined the episode.…
more -
Keeping Black Lit Alive: Tampa Bay Black Author Expo Returns | Rooted in Progress
The 4th annual Tampa Bay Black Authors Expo is back this weekend, featuring 23 different authors. This year's theme is "Keeping Black Lit Alive" and will honor the memory of the late Gwen Henderson, who owned the Black English Boosktore. Poet and author Troy Legette is participating. He discusses...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join hosts Deanne King and Terrance Middlebrooks at the kitchen table. Every week, Rooted In Progress will focus on an issue impacting the black Tampa Bay community with topics like gentrification, Tampa's racial conciliation committee, and more.
HOSTED BY
WFLA Now
Loading similar podcasts...