Advertise on podcast: Power to the People Show with Darius Pridgen

This week on Power to the People, we’re asking some uncomfortable questions about the direction America is heading. Is the United States becoming communist? We unpack why that word is being used in today’s political debate and whether what people are seeing actually fits the definition. We also discuss the escalating battle between the White House and the press, after CNN, MS NOW, and Politico were barred from White House access before a federal judge temporarily ordered their credentials restored. What happens when an administration decides which journalists get access based on their coverage? Then we return to the case of Nolan Wells. A Mississippi grand jury declined to bring criminal charges in connection with the 18-year-old’s death, finding no credible evidence of criminal wrongdoing. His family, however, says important questions remain unanswered and is seeking further investigation. Finally, with artificial intelligence changing how we learn and work, we ask a question facing a lot of families: Is college still worth it? If AI can perform tasks that once required years of education and specialized training, what will a college degree be worth in the next generation? From government and media to justice, education, and AI, America is changing. The question is whether our institutions are changing with it. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

This week on Power to the People, we start with the new home of the Buffalo Bills. Now that fans have had a chance to experience the new Highmark Stadium, what do we think? We share our opinions on the look and feel of the stadium, the atmosphere, amenities, and the overall game-day experience. Then we turn to artificial intelligence and content creation. As AI-generated content becomes more sophisticated, what happens when AI begins learning from and building upon content that was itself created by AI? And what does that mean for human creators, originality, and the future of creativity? Finally, Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader Leah Halton-Pope joins us to discuss the city’s Charter Revision items headed to voters this November. We break down what’s being proposed, why these changes are on the ballot, and what Buffalo residents should know before casting their votes. From the future of the Bills to the future of creativity and the future of Buffalo government, we’re looking at a city and a world in the middle of change. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

This week on Power to the People, we’re looking beyond the outrage and asking who’s in the room when decisions are being made? We unpack the social media firestorm surrounding Texas Roadhouse and what happens when an unverified claim spreads quickly enough to shape public opinion. Then we discuss Target’s controversial Halloween costume, the company’s apology, and the bigger question: How did something like this make it through the approval process in the first place? From there, we take the conversation into America’s corporate boardrooms. Who sits on the boards of our biggest retailers? Does diversity at the top change the decisions that eventually reach store shelves? And as major corporations reconsider diversity requirements for their boards, does representation in the room really matter? From social media outrage to corporate accountability and representation, we’re asking whether the people making the decisions truly understand the people they’re selling to. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

What does it take to build stronger communities? In this special episode of Power to the People, we bring together two judges and a Black developer for a conversation about the future of our neighborhoods. From housing stability and neighborhood revitalization to homeownership, generational wealth, and community investment, we explore the challenges our communities face and the solutions that can create lasting change. Together, we'll discuss the role that residents, landlords, developers, the courts, and local leaders all play in creating neighborhoods where families can live, grow, and thrive. Join us for an important conversation about how we can strengthen our communities, one neighborhood at a time. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

In this episode of Power to the People, we tackle the stories making headlines across our community and the nation. We discuss the latest developments surrounding the Buffalo School Board, break down President Trump's recent controversies, including the Penn Station proposal and other national issues, sit down with Duncan Kirkwood to discuss his new book and the message behind it, and examine the ongoing questions and public attention surrounding the Nolan Wells case. From local leadership and national politics to community conversations and stories that continue to impact Western New York, we connect the headlines to the issues that matter most. Join us for another real conversation on Power to the People. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

In this episode of Power to the People, we tackle some of the issues affecting our families and communities. We discuss men's health and why taking care of ourselves has to become a priority, explore what young people really need to succeed beyond academics, and break down the latest developments surrounding the Buffalo School Board. From health and education to leadership and community, we connect today's headlines with the conversations that matter most. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

In this episode of Power to the People, we discuss why Juneteenth is more than a celebration, it's a reminder of the work that still lies ahead. As communities across the country reflect on freedom, progress, and history, we talk about why investing in our neighborhoods, supporting one another, and staying engaged matters now more than ever. We also break down current events and the issues impacting our communities today, connecting the past to the challenges and opportunities in front of us. Join us for a conversation about unity, responsibility, and the importance of keeping our focus where it matters most. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

--- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

We discuss the anti-weaponization fund and why many are asking how these priorities continue moving forward while reparations for Black Americans still remain unresolved. We also break down the controversy surrounding Tiffany Henyard and what leadership accountability should really look like. Plus, with Keisha Lance Bottoms entering the race for governor, we talk about the political landscape, representation, and what leadership means in this moment. And in a powerful conversation on faith, we ask an important question: What training does the church need beyond just knowing the Bible? From leadership to mental health to community engagement, we unpack what ministry preparation should look like today. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

In this episode of Power to the People, we sit down with Kathy Hochul for a wide-ranging conversation on the issues shaping New York right now. From the Tops remembrance ceremony in Buffalo to immigration reforms, public safety, and the fight against illegal and 3D printed guns, Governor Hochul discusses the priorities driving the latest New York State budget. We also break down housing affordability, child care efforts, and the new proposed auto insurance regulations in New York State, and what they could mean for drivers facing rising costs. This is a conversation about leadership, policy, and how decisions made in Albany impact everyday people across Buffalo and beyond. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

Join us for an important conversation on Jury Service Education and Outreach. We are joined by the Hon. Craig Hannah, Judge Susan Eagan, and Dr. Christine Farrow as we break down why jury service matters, what people should know, and how it impacts our communities. This is about understanding the system and your role in it. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

A major Supreme Court decision on voting rights is raising serious questions across the country. At the same time, social media attacks and online narratives are shaping how people see these issues in real time. We break it all down in this episode of Power to the People. Tap in and join the conversation 👇 #PowerToThePeople #VotingRights #SupremeCourt #SocialMedia #StayInformed --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

--- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

Buffalo named a new police commissioner, and do her ties to Atlanta bring both familiarity and expectations? What does this appointment mean for leadership, accountability, and the direction of public safety? At the same time, we’re asking a bigger question: Are influencers starting to replace traditional community leaders? From social media voices to grassroots organizers, the landscape of influence is changing in real time. We break down what leadership looks like today, who people are really listening to, and what that means for our communities moving forward. Tap into Power to the People. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD

It’s one of those weeks where everything feels like it’s hitting at once. Gas prices are climbing again, putting pressure on everyday people. Meanwhile, there’s a bold proposal on the table that would stop paychecks for federal elected officials and their staff during government shutdowns, raising real questions about accountability and leadership. Down in Atlanta, traffic is about to reach another level, and if you thought it was bad before, just wait. We’re also tapping into culture with conversations around Druski and what’s really going on there, plus a look at Prophet Brian Carn and the reactions surrounding him. Different topics, one reality, people are feeling the weight of it all. We’re breaking it down, connecting the dots, and giving it to you straight. --- Power to the People is a weekly talk show hosted by Rev. Darius Pridgen and produced by Marc Pope, delivering bold conversations on politics, faith, culture, and the issues shaping our communities. We go beyond headlines and bring you real dialogue with elected officials, community leaders, and voices that matter. From national news to local impact, we ask the hard questions and create space for honest discussion. New episodes air every Friday at 12 PM. If you care about civic engagement, leadership, accountability, and meaningful change, this channel is for you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the conversation. Host: @dgp7161 Producer: @mrmarcpope Merchandise and more: https://linktr.ee/PowertothePeopleShowD