Advertise on podcast: NEXT with Marcus Atkinson

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 Media network with a podcast bearing the same name. Donald discusses the wisdom, memories and life lessons passed down through conversations with his father—and how preserving those stories can strengthen families across generations. In the second half, Marc Blount of Blount Conversations joins Marcus for a serious discussion about the disappearance and death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells. Together, they examine the known timeline, the conflicting accounts and the lingering questions surrounding the case, while separating verified facts from online speculation. From the conversations that shape a life to the questions a grieving family still needs answered, this episode reminds us why stories, truth and legacy matter. NEXT airs on BlaXcess Media, 92.7 FM WICU-HD2, with an expanded hour-long broadcast on WQLN NPR on the fourth Sunday of every month.

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 outspoken advocates for accountability and change. This episode also provides an update on the Marchello Woodard case, explores the state of activism in Erie, and introduces Deonte’s new BlaXcess Media program, The Social Impact. Expect honest dialogue, strong opinions, and a conversation rooted in culture, community, and change.

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, utility assistance, and community partnerships, GECAC’s work reaches thousands of residents every year. But this conversation goes beyond programs. It looks at the Community Action network across America, the continued fight against poverty, and why local leadership matters when families, seniors, workers, and neighborhoods are facing real economic pressure. This is a conversation about dignity, data, service, and the power of community action, right here in Erie.

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 way. What began as guidance and encouragement in childhood has grown into a real-life example of what long-term mentorship can produce: trust, growth, talent, and purpose. This episode highlights the impact of investing in young people over time and shows what can happen when someone is given the support to develop into their full potential.

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 to reflections on America’s 250th anniversary and more, this episode brings bold discussion, strong opinions, and thoughtful perspective. Hear NEXT on its longtime home, WQLN, and now across the growing reach of BlaXcess Media, as the conversation continues on both the old and the new networks.

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 already seeing in young people’s lives, and why investing in our kids isn’t “charity,” it’s community survival. From mentorship to money, from encouragement to opportunity, this conversation is a call to action for all of us: step up, show love, and help the next generation of Erie leaders believe in what’s possible—on today’s episode of NEXT.

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, BlaXcess Media delivers Black radio 24/7—right here in Erie. Marcus shares the vision behind the network, what listeners can expect from the programming, and why creating a dedicated platform for authentic voices and stories matters now more than ever. Tune in and be part of the movement—because the culture isn’t just something we celebrate… it’s something we broadcast.

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 during a confrontation with U.S. Border Patrol/federal agents, following the earlier death of Renée Nicole Good, shot and killed on Jan. 7 by an ICE officer while she was in her vehicle. As thousands take to the streets in freezing conditions, the community is wrestling with grief, fear, and a growing insistence on accountability and transparency. Host Marcus Atkinson is joined by Deonte Cooley and Malcolm Pullium for a wide-ranging conversation connecting national headlines to local pain: the murder of Marchello Woodard in Erie, the ongoing fight for justice, and what it means—right now—for everyday citizens to raise their voices without losing their humanity. Together, they ask the hard questions: Who is protected? Who is policed? And what does responsible civic action look like when the system feels unmoved? On this episode of NEXT2.0.

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 Jr. Memorial Center in the wake of the passing of longtime Executive Director James C. Sherrod. Airing on WQLN NPR 91.3 FM, this episode addresses a topic of significant public interest: the search for the MLK Center’s next permanent Executive Director. With the organization playing a vital role in Erie’s civic, cultural, and social justice landscape, the transition has drawn thoughtful questions and deep concern from the community. In this candid and transparent conversation, Marcus discusses:  The immediate challenges following a sudden leadership loss  The board’s approach to stability, stewardship, and continuity  How the Executive Director search process is being structured  The importance of public trust, accountability, and clear communication This interview is part of a broader effort by Marcus and the MLK Center’s Board of Directors to proactively inform the public, dispel misinformation, and invite the community into an open dialogue about the future of the organization. Honest, reflective, and grounded in service, this episode of NEXT2.0 exemplifies the show’s mission: exploring leadership, community impact, and the real conversations that shape Erie’s future.

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 human as it is technological. In this episode, we examine ten key entrepreneurial trends shaping 2026 and ask a critical question: Is AI truly leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs—or simply changing the rules? From the growing number of Americans choosing business ownership over traditional employment, to the rise of “blue-collar entrepreneurship” and non-AI-dependent industries, we explore where real opportunity is emerging. Join host Marcus Atkinson and his special guest, Regional Artist and entrepreneur Kenny Base, for a timely conversation about technology, humanity, and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape—where AI may be a powerful tool, but human values remain the true differentiator. Today, On NEXT2.0

Marcus Atkinson sits down with long-time basketball coach, Shannon Pulliam to discuss topics like coaching, mentorship and passing the torch.

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.

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 arguments, and its ultimate failure to substantiate its central claims. The panel situates this specific piece as part of a larger, systemic pattern of discourse, examining what such writings reveal about the current landscape of public argument and intellectual rigor. This episode offers a measured, analytical dissection of how ideas gain traction and why robust critical evaluation remains essential.

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 the Bible's teachings, cautioning against the trend of importing external meanings or popular online interpretations that diverge from the text. Sharing their own journeys to ministry, Pastor Beall and Pastor Hunter explain their shared dedication to a principled, Bible-centered approach to pastorship. This conversation explores the challenges and necessities of maintaining theological integrity in the modern age.

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 honors his profound dedication to Erie. They explore the nature of his legacy, the personal impact of his work, and how his guidance inspired a deeper commitment to community engagement and stronger local leadership. This episode serves as a tribute to a man whose work continues to resonate throughout the city he served.