The Voice of Dr. Edda Fields-Black

The Voice of Dr. Edda Fields-Black

As we step into May, I sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Miami native Dr. Edda Fields-Black for a powerful conversation on history, storytelling, and the voices too often left unheard. Fresh off her groundbreaking book COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War, she shares the decade-long journey behind her research from walking historic rice fields to uncovering overlooked names and stories. We explore the importance of telling history through the perspectives of the freed, the emotional weight of this work, and the discipline of bringing research to life for a broader audience. She also reflects on her Miami roots and the personal discoveries that shaped her work, including her own family’s connection to this history.

The Voice of Kirk Franklin

At our 21st Annual Reclaim The Dream Memorial & Gospel Concert, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Grammy Award-winning gospel legend Kirk Franklin for an uplifting conversation on faith, purpose, and the power of music. Held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, this gathering blends reflection with a call to action, and Kirk embodies that spirit. He reflects on his journey from church beginnings to redefining gospel music, and the responsibility of using his platform to inspire others. Rooted in the energy of this meaningful event, our conversation is filled with authenticity, joy, and purpose.

The Voice of Florida State Representative Ashley Gantt

In celebration of Women’s History Month, I sit down with Florida State Representative Ashley Gantt for an honest and uplifting conversation about service, sisterhood, and the strength it takes for women to lead. Representative Gantt shares her journey from Miami-Dade teacher to attorney, legislator, and trailblazer, opening up about balancing long stretches in Tallahassee with her legal practice, carving out time for rest, and the community moments that keep her grounded. We discuss the pressures facing Florida families, from rising insurance costs to the need for real bipartisan solutions, and the importance of protecting your peace when the work feels endless. Beyond policy, she reflects on being the first in her family to break barriers, the joy of inspiring young people, and the women who shaped her path—from her own mentors to icons like Harriet Tubman and Gwen Cherry. Filled with humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom, this episode is a reminder that when women lead with authenticity and purpose, they don’t just make history, they make change.

The Voices of Damien Escobar and Adam Hawley

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, I welcome world-renowned musicians Damien Escobar and Adam Hawley for a soulful conversation on artistry, purpose, and the power of music to bring people together. Fresh for their performances at our Sunday Jazz in the Park concert at Legion Park in Miami's District Five, both artists share the journeys that shaped them, from childhood lessons and early touring to discovering the sounds that defined their careers. We talk about the universal language of music, the healing energy of live performance, and the discipline it takes to balance constant travel with family, creativity, and self-care. Damien opens up about falling in love with the violin and carving out his own lane in contemporary soul, while Adam reflects on the full-circle moment of signing with Earth, Wind & Fire’s Maurice White and eventually launching his own label. Beyond the stage, this episode celebrates the cultural legacy of Black musicians, whose work transcends both genre and generation. Whether reminiscing about the songs that shaped them or the dreams that still drive them, Damien and Adam remind us that music is history, heritage, and heart, an enduring gift that continues to move us forward.

The Voice of Sandy Moise

As a new year begins, many of us set intentions for healthier lives and stronger communities. In this January episode, I sit down with my neighbor, educator, and environmental advocate Sandy Moise to talk about protecting and growing Miami’s green future. From our city’s ongoing revision to the tree ordinance to creative ways development and the environment can thrive together, Sandy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for preserving what makes Miami lusciously green and special. We discuss the importance of tree canopy in combating heat, protecting wildlife during nesting season, and keeping our bay clean and vibrant. Sandy also shares stories from her own journey, from growing up surrounded by trees in Ohio to championing pollinator-friendly landscaping and advocating for cooling stations for outdoor workers. This thoughtful, forward-looking conversation is a perfect reminder that every small action, from planting a native flower to protecting a mature tree, can have a big impact in 2026 and beyond.