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What happens when you recognize that the life you're living is not the life you're being called to live? On this episode of Ms. Wanda's Full Circle Radio, Ms. Wanda sits down with actor, writer, producer, and creative Todd Anthony for an inspiring conversation about faith, purpose, perseverance, and the courage to embrace life's transformations. A Philadelphia native now based in Los Angeles, Todd shares how he transitioned from a career in social work to pursuing acting. What began as a moment of clarity at his desk became a journey of faith, taking acting classes, traveling to New York for opportunities, and eventually moving to Los Angeles to pursue his creative calling full-time. He opens up about the moments when he questioned the path, the practical challenges of making a living, and how trusting God's direction helped him keep moving forward. Trusting the Call: Todd explains how he recognized acting as his calling and why he believes nervousness doesn't have to become fear that keeps us from moving forward. The Power of Transformation: He reflects on the life experiences and transitions that shaped him, sharing why our circumstances and where we begin do not have to determine who we become. The Story Behind RED: Todd discusses his one-man stage production, RED: The Transformation of Malcolm X, which he conceptualized, wrote, and performs. Through the lens of Malcolm X's early life as Detroit Red, the production explores identity, purpose, personal growth, and the experiences that shape our journey. Why the Next Generation Needs This Story: Todd shares his desire to introduce Malcolm X's story to today's young people, particularly those who may not have had the opportunity to learn about his life and legacy in depth. He encourages students and young adults to recognize that who they are today does not determine who they can become tomorrow. The production is appropriate for audiences ages 12 and up. Discovering the Gifts Within: One of Todd's biggest takeaways from creating and performing RED is that we often spend so much time chasing what we want that we overlook the gifts, abilities, and resources already within us. He offers a meaningful perspective on discovering purpose by recognizing what comes naturally to us and how those gifts can benefit others. The Man Behind the Mission: Todd also shares personal reflections on family, perseverance, authenticity, and the importance of not losing yourself while fulfilling the roles and responsibilities of life. RED: The Transformation of Malcolm X comes to Sacramento's historic Guild Theater in Oak Park for three performances: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 Wednesday, November 11, 2026 Thursday, November 12, 2026 Bring your teens, college students, young adults, family, and friends to experience a powerful production that will challenge perspectives and spark conversations about identity, history, purpose, and transformation. Get your tickets: platform4purpose.co/events Experience RED in Sacramento!

November is Eye Donation Month, and this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio takes a closer look at the gift of sight and the life-changing impact of eye donation. Ms. Wanda welcomes Alyssa Hernandez of Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank for an informative and personal conversation about her journey into eye banking, the work of the eye bank, and the importance of helping people understand the possibilities of cornea donation. Alyssa's connection to donation is deeply personal. Her son, Noah, received a life-saving liver transplant at just six months old after being diagnosed with a serious liver disease. That experience introduced Alyssa to the world of organ, eye, and tissue donation and ultimately inspired her career with Sierra Donor Services. Together, Ms. Wanda and Alyssa explore what an eye bank does, how donated corneas are recovered, evaluated, and distributed for transplantation, and how cornea transplants help restore sight for individuals living with corneal blindness. They also clarify common misconceptions about eye donation. In this conversation, you'll learn: The mission of an eye bank: How Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank works with surgeons to provide donated corneas for transplantation. The gift of sight: How cornea transplants can help people with conditions such as Fuchs dystrophy and keratoconus regain their vision. One donor, multiple possibilities: How one eye donor can help up to 10 people through cornea transplantation and the use of other eye tissue. Who can be an eye donor? Why age, poor eyesight, cataract surgery, and even prior LASIK surgery do not automatically disqualify someone from becoming a potential donor. The global impact: How Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank works with partners to help meet the need for cornea transplants beyond the United States. The importance of family conversations: Why sharing your donation wishes with loved ones can help families make informed decisions when the time comes. This year's Eye Donation Month theme, "See Beyond Yourself," reminds us to look beyond our own circumstances and recognize how our decisions and compassion can make a difference in the lives of others. Continue the Conversation / Learn More Learn about eye donation and the work of Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank: https://SierraIBank.org Learn about organ, eye, and tissue donation registration: https://RegisterMe.org Explore Sierra Donor Services: https://SierraDonor.org A final thought from Ms. Wanda: You may know what you want when it comes to donation, but does your family know? Have the conversation. Share your wishes. Give your loved ones the opportunity to understand and honor your decisions.

What happens when a child struggles academically and begins to believe they simply aren't good at learning? How can parents recognize learning gaps, find the right support, and help their children rebuild confidence? On this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio, Ms. Wanda welcomes Sarilyn Cobb, an educator, mentor, and founder of Illuminate Learning Academy, for an important conversation about math achievement, academic intervention, and helping students recognize their potential. Sarilyn shares how her experience as a high school mathteacher, her own educational journey, and her commitment to mentoring young people inspired her to establish Illuminate Learning Academy. Her approach goes beyond teaching formulas and solving problems. She believes students needrelationships, encouragement, individualized instruction, and someone who believes in their ability to succeed. In this conversation, we explore: How academic challenges can undermine a child's confidence and create a belief that they simply cannot succeed. Why relationship-building and understanding a child's circumstances matter alongside academic instruction. How parents can support their children even when they don't feel confident in math themselves. About Illuminate Learning AcademyFounded by Sarilyn Cobb, Illuminate Learning Academyprovides personalized academic support designed to help students strengthen their skills, overcome challenges, and grow in confidence. Services include one-on-one and small-group tutoring, mathsupport, academic intervention, and support for schools and educators. Sarilyn works with learners from elementary school through college and offers both virtual and in-person options. Parents: Here's your next step If your child is struggling with math, falling behind, orlosing confidence in the classroom, don't assume they are incapable of learning. There may be foundational skills that need attention or a different approach that helps concepts click. Connect with Sarilyn Cobb: Website: IlluminateLearningAcademy.com Email: [email protected] Social media: Search for @SarilynElizabeth. Parents, caregivers, educators, and school administratorsare encouraged to explore how Illuminate Learning Academy may support their students or school community. Because every learner deserves the opportunity to thrive—and every child deserves to have someone who believes they can do difficult things.

What have you been carrying that may no longer belong in your next chapter? And what happens when you spend so much time pouring into others that you lose touch with yourself? In this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio, Ms. Wanda welcomes Dr. Kindra Denise Brooks, a nurse educator, resilience strategist, keynote speaker, and founder of Kindra Denise Speaks LLC, for an honest conversation about identity, belonging, emotional wellness, and the courage to release what no longer serves us. The conversation also explores her memoir, Where I Belong: A Memoir of Identity, Belonging, and the Courage to Come Home to Yourself. Through personal storytelling, Dr. Kindra examines how our experiences shape the way we see ourselves, and how honest reflection can help us move forward. Listeners will learn about her signature 4R Framework™: Review, Reflect, Receive, and Renew, a practical approach to examining our experiences, understanding their impact, finding meaning, and choosing how to move forward.  She also introduces Power of the Pour™ 2.0: Lay It Down, an immersive wellness experience designed to help participants identify what they are carrying, reflect on whether it is serving them, and make space for renewal. The experience will include guided work with the 4R Framework, a workbook, and community connection. In This Episode The pressure Black women can experience to prove themselves in professional spaces Navigating workplace bullying and learning to advocate for yourself How the 4R Framework™ can help us process difficult experiences Simple breathing and reflection practices to help us pause and reset The inspiration behind Where I Belong and Power of the Pour™ 2.0: Lay It Down What are you ready to lay down? Join Dr. Kindra Denise Brooks for an immersive wellness experience focused on reflection, renewal, and authentic connection. Whether you are a caregiver, leader, entrepreneur, healthcare professional, or someone who has spent years pouring into everyone else, this experience invites you to make space for yourself. Men are welcome, too. Event details Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 Time: 10 AM–1:30 PM Registration: Visit Eventbrite and search “Power of the Pour.” In Where I Belong: A Memoir of Identity, Belonging, and the Courage to Come Home to Yourself, Dr. Kindra Denise Brooks invites readers into a deeply personal exploration of adoption, identity, achievement, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Purchase the book: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at the Power of the Pour™ 2.0 event. Attend Power of the Pour™ 2.0: Lay It Down; Get the Book: Where I Belong

On this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio, we’re putting maternal heart health at the center of the conversation. Ms. Wanda welcomes Monica Alleje, Senior Community Impact Director with the American Heart Association, who shares her personal experience with preeclampsia and the unexpected health challenges she faced during and after childbirth. Monica discusses the importance of maternal heart health, recognizing potential warning signs, monitoring blood pressure, understanding family health history, and advocating for yourself when something doesn't feel right. The conversation also explores the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement, maternal health initiatives, community education, and resources that help families access heart health information and tools. We examine a message that extends beyond motherhood: women often put everyone else first, but our health cannot remain an afterthought. In this episode, we discuss: Monica’s personal journey through preeclampsia and postpartum complications. Why maternal health risks can continue after childbirth. Women’s heart health and the importance of recognizing potential warning signs. Knowing your blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and other key health indicators. The importance of family health history, quality sleep, healthy habits, and self-advocacy. Community resources and the American Heart Association’s efforts to improve women’s health outcomes. Take action: Make your health a priority. Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors, ask questions about your family health history, and seek prompt medical attention for concerning symptoms. If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, discuss your heart health and blood pressure with your healthcare team. Learn more about heart health education and community initiatives through the American Heart Association. Follow its Northern California chapter on Instagram at @AHA Northern California. Because taking care of yourself is not selfish. It’s essential.

This week, we dedicated the show to women's heart health, with conversations about maternal heart health, prevention, knowing your family history and the importance of putting our own well-being on the priority list. Ms. Wanda sat down with Dr. Reetu Sharma, cardiologist with Sutter Health and president of the American Heart Association's Sacramento board. Dr. Sharma helped us understand how cardiovascular risk changes throughout a woman's life, why menopause and pregnancy complications matter, and how factors such as family history, high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and mental health can affect our hearts. We also talked about the gender gap in cardiac care, the importance of recognizing warning signs, and why women must advocate for themselves. And don't overlook this important reminder: learning CPR can help save the life of someone you love. One message from this conversation really stayed with me: We cannot fix a problem we don't know exists. Awareness must lead to action. Family, don't just listen. Take a step toward better heart health. Schedule a checkup, learn your numbers, ask about your family history, and make time for your well-being. Learn more about women's heart health at goredforwomen.org. Share this episode with a mother, sister, daughter, friend, or any woman who needs this reminder. We deserve to live longer, healthier lives, and that starts with taking our health seriously.

Advocacy, Leadership & Black Youth How do we empower Black youth to use their voices, advocate for themselves and become leaders in their communities? On this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio, Ms. Wanda welcomes Lorreen Pryor, President and CEO of the Black Youth Leadership Project (BYLP), and members of her team for a conversation about supporting Black students and families. In this conversation, we explore BYLP’s work in student and family advocacy, mentoring, leadership and civic engagement, substance-use prevention, and mental health and wellness. We also discuss the importance of helping young people understand the systems that shape their lives and recognize that their voices matter. Plus, learn about BYLP’s Black v. The Board of Education podcast, a platform amplifying Black voices and encouraging meaningful conversations about education, equity, leadership and our communities’ future. Listen in and discover why investing in Black youth leadership is an investment in our collective future. Take Action: Learn more about the Black Youth Leadership Project and its programs, and share this episode with a parent, educator, community advocate or young person who needs to hear this conversation. Follow on Instagram @bylp or visit their website blyp.org

For the final episode of the 2026 Full Circle Men on the Move series, Ms. Wanda sits down with Hakeem Croom — certified life and leadership coach, speaker, educator, entrepreneur, transformational storyteller, author and founder and CEO of Defying All Odds. Born and raised in Harlem, Hakeem’s life story is one of resilience, determination, faith and purpose. His journey is captured in the documentary Bigger Than Me: The Hakeem Jubal Croom Story, which takes viewers inside the experiences that helped shape the man he is today. In this deeply personal conversation, Hakeem shares what it was like growing up in Harlem during the 1980s and 1990s, experiencing foster care as a young child, and developing an early sense that there had to be something more for his life. He talks about the opportunity that changed the trajectory of his life — leaving Harlem at 16 to attend Fishburne Military School in Virginia. There, he discovered that the leadership qualities he had developed growing up could reach far beyond the environment he knew. Hakeem also opens up about one of the most painful chapters of his story: losing his mother on his first day of college. He shares what gave him the strength to return to school after burying his mother, including the promise he had made to her and the support he received from his teammates and coaches, who were waiting for him when he arrived back at school at 4 a.m. We also talk about family, fatherhood, vulnerability, faith, Hakeem’s move from Virginia to California, and the calling he feels to use his story to help others see what is possible beyond their circumstances. And, of course, we talk about Bigger Than Me and why Hakeem felt compelled to turn his life story into a documentary. Hakeem’s next chapter is his upcoming book, Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot: How to Win This Game Called Life and Flourish. Using the childhood game as a metaphor, he explores the “hands” life deals us — and how we can use our experiences, choices and determination to overcome limiting beliefs, pursue our dreams and flourish. The book is scheduled for release October 14 and is currently available for pre-order. WATCH + SUPPORT HAKEEM If this conversation moves you, don’t stop with the podcast. Watch Bigger Than Me and experience Hakeem’s story for yourself. Then support his next chapter by pre-ordering Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot: How to Win This Game Called Life and Flourish. Visit hakeemcroom.com to watch the documentary and pre-order the book. Hakeem shared that both are available through his website. This is more than supporting a filmmaker and author. It’s supporting a story of perseverance, purpose and possibility — and helping a story that can inspire someone else reach them. And that brings us to the close of the 2026 Full Circle Men on the Move series. If you missed any of the conversations with this year’s Men on the Move, catch them all now and listen to the stories of men who are using their experiences, talents, voices and influence to make an impact.

We’re kicking off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our friend Reverend Tammie Denyse, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Carrie's Touch, as they celebrate an incredible 20 years of serving Black women and families impacted by breast cancer. Rev. Tammie shares the personal journey that inspired Carrie's Touch, the importance of making sure Black women are seen and supported throughout their breast cancer journey, and how the organization continues to provide education, advocacy, research and critical resources—including its Rapid Response Program. We also talk about the next chapter for Carrie's Touch and a very special way to celebrate this milestone: Dinner with the Youngers October 23–25 | Celebration Arts, Sacramento Inspired by A Raisin in the Sun, this powerful production explores family, chronic illness, grief, communication, healing and the importance of having difficult conversations together. It’s also a 20th anniversary celebration and fundraiser supporting the continued work of Carrie's Touch. Get your tickets and support Carrie's Touch at carriestouch.org. Twenty years is a remarkable milestone—but the mission continues. As Carrie's Touch says, the journey is “From Dream to Legacy.”

What does it really mean to create a safe community? This week on Full Circle Men on the Move, Ms. Wanda sits down with Khaalid Muttaqi — Chief Operating Officer of Advance Peace, community safety advocate, and the writer, director and producer of the powerful documentary The Paradox of Safety. Khaalid shares the personal journey that shaped his life's work, from growing up in a strong Black community in Seaside, California, to dropping out of high school, finding his way back through community college and eventually graduating from UC Berkeley. He talks candidly about the mentors, coaches, teachers and community members who helped keep him grounded — and why he believes today's young people need that same kind of support. The conversation takes a deeper look at youth violence, childhood trauma, the importance of building relationships with young people, and why Khaalid believes "the relationship is the intervention." We also talk about his journey into violence prevention in Sacramento, his work with Advance Peace, and what he learned from efforts to address youth gun violence. Then we get into The Paradox of Safety. Set in Sacramento, the documentary examines the complicated layers behind community safety, including youth violence, trauma, education, redlining, prevention and the systems that shape our communities. Khaalid explains why he felt it was important to tell this story and why he believes we have to create space to reimagine what safety can look like. It's a powerful conversation about young people, community, accountability, healing and hope — and a reminder that solutions require relationships, resources, honest conversations and community involvement. SEE THE FILM The Paradox of Safety has been selected for the 5th Annual Oak Park Black Film Festival on October 6. Ms. Wanda has seen the film — and calls it powerful and eye-opening. If this conversation moves you, don't stop with the podcast. Get your tickets and support the film. Support Khaalid and the local filmmakers who helped bring this Sacramento story to the screen. And stay for the conversation that follows the screening. Because some stories aren't meant to simply be watched. They're meant to start a conversation.

What happens when life takes you through grief, responsibility, sacrifice and seasons you never expected — and then asks you to figure out who you are on the other side? In this Men on the Move conversation, Ms. Wanda sits down with Craig C. Carlisle, a father of five, writer, music producer, engineer, podcaster and man of faith. Nearly 14 years after losing his wife to cancer, Craig opens up about the reality of raising five sons while navigating his own grief. He shares the emotional toll of shutting down, the anger that followed his loss, and the difficult lessons he learned about putting his family first while also losing touch with parts of himself. The conversation explores grief, healing, faith, fatherhood, purpose and legacy. Craig also reflects on his journey as a father and the importance of preparing the next generation while allowing children to experience life and become who they are meant to be. Now, with his sons grown and his youngest recently graduating from high school, Craig is entering a new season as an empty nester. He talks about rediscovering himself, reconnecting with his creative gifts and embracing what God has next. We also highlight music from Craig’s upcoming EP, Lost and Found, a deeply personal record that reflects his journey and the experiences that have shaped him. From fatherhood and faith to music, healing and finding himself again, Craig’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes a new chapter begins when we least expect it. *Music from Craig’s upcoming EP, "Lost and Found", is used with permission on this podcast.

In the second installment of the Full Circle Men on theMove series, Ms. Wanda sits down with Sacramento native Attorney George H. Jones, Esquire for a candid conversation about justice, business, legacy, family and service. George is a criminal defense and civil rights attorney withmore than 40 years of experience in the legal profession. He is also chairman of the board of the California Black Chamber of Commerce and its foundation, where his work includes supporting Black-owned businesses and helping entrepreneurs understand the resources and opportunities available to them. Topics Discussed:       * Law Office of George H. Jones: From Del Paso Heights to the courtroom        * CA Black Chamber of Commerce: Why Black businesses need to get in the room         * Estate Planning: Protecting what you've worked to build    * Lessons on legacy       * Advice for the next generation Connect with Attorney George H. Jones Phone: 888-675-2456Email: [email protected]: 816 8th Street, Sacramento, CA Note: The estate-planning discussion is for generalinformational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized legal advice.

The Men on the Move series is back on Full Circle! Throughout September, each Saturday we'll introduce you to men who are making an impact in their communities—not only through their professional accomplishments, but through their leadership, experiences, values and commitment to making a difference. We kick off the series with Jay King—President of the California Black Chamber of Commerce, songwriter, entertainer, entrepreneur, radio host and founder of the legendary singing group Club Nouveau. Jay King has made his mark in both the music industry and the business community. He made history on the Billboard Black Music Charts using independent distribution. His career has continued to evolve across music, media, entrepreneurship and community leadership. In this conversation, Ms. Wanda goes beyond the impressive résumé to get to know the man behind the movement. Jay shares insights about his journey, the people and experiences that shaped him, the importance of independence and ownership, and why understanding Black history matters when we're talking about the future of the Black community. But this episode isn't all business. Ms. Wanda gets personal, exploring Jay's values, lessonslearned, sources of joy and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. In This Episode * Jay's journey from music and entertainment and entrepreneurship and community leadership.* Founding Club Nouveau and his evolution in the music industry* The importance of independent artists and independent ownership* Why Black history is essential to understanding our future* The importance of Black-owned businesses and economic empowerment* Jay's thoughts on legacy and what he hopes to leave behind. If this conversation inspires you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Full Circle — Empowerment Through Conversation. #FullCircle #MenOnTheMove #JayKing #MsWandasFullCircleRadio#ClubNouveau #BlackBusiness #BlackEntrepreneurship #IndependentArtists#BlackHistory #EconomicEmpowerment #Sacramento

On this episode of Full Circle, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with our longtime partners at Sierra Donor Services (SDS). Ms. Wanda sits down with Cristian Morales, Senior External Affairs Coordinator, to talk about the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month, his personal connection to organ donation, and why increasing awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation is especially important in Latino communities. We also welcome Torreyana “Torrey” Tripette, the new External Affairs Director for Sierra Donor Services, as she shares her background, her passion for community engagement and her vision for her new role. Torrey brings more than 20 years of experience in communications, healthcare outreach, community relations and nonprofit engagement to her work advancing the life-saving mission of donation. The conversation addresses some of the barriers that can affect donor registration, the importance of family conversations, and how one donor can make a tremendous difference—saving up to eight lives through organ donation and improving up to 75 lives through tissue donation. As Full Circle continues its long-standing partnership with Sierra Donor Services, this episode is a reminder that community, culture, generosity and education can help save lives. Learn more and register to become an organ, eye and tissue donor:Sierra Donor Services: https://sierradonor.orgDonate Life: https://registerme.org Listen, share and join the conversation.

What happens when food, culture, community, and entrepreneurship come together? There’s a seat at the table for everyone. On this episode of Ms. Wanda’s Full Circle Radio, I’m joined by Melissa Muganzo, Founder of Mindy’s Kitchen, Ling Luc, Chief Marketing Officer for Mindy's Kitchen and Sydni R. Bell, founder of Naturals Night Out, to talk about the 2nd Annual Salad and Sip Soirée—a unique collaboration celebrating food, connection, culture, and Black women entrepreneurship. We talk about the journeys behind their businesses, the importance of creating intentional spaces for women, the power of collaboration over competition, and what it means for Black women entrepreneurs to build businesses while creating community. The Salad and Sip Soirée is presented by Mindy’s Kitchen in partnership with Naturals Night Out and hosted at Ever After Wine in Elk Grove. About the businesses: Mindy’s Kitchen is a Black woman-founded, Sacramento-based food business offering fresh, plant-based, dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free meals designed with the woman on the go in mind.Visit: Mindy’s Kitchen Naturals Night Out, founded by Sydni R. Bell, creates intentional experiences celebrating women through natural hair, beauty, culture, and shared experiences. Their gatherings are designed to help women feel seen, affirmed, connected, and empowered.Visit: Naturals Night Out Ever After Wine, founded by Nadia Mincey and Kelly Rhodes, is a story-inspired wine bar and shop in Elk Grove focused on natural and low-intervention wines, shared plates, and community-centered experiences. Although Nadia was unable to join us for the interview, we’re excited to highlight the beautiful space she and Kelly have created and the role Ever After Wine plays in this collaboration.Visit: Ever After Wine Want to attend the 2nd Annual Salad Soirée? Sunday, September 6, 202612:00–6:00 PMEver After Wine | Elk Grove, CA There are two attendance windows: 12:00–3:00 PM or 3:00–6:00 PM. Get your tickets/reserve your spot:https://www.mindyskitchen.com/ Listen, enjoy, and then share this episode with someone who believes in the power of Black women, collaboration, and community. Full Circle — Empowerment Through Conversation.