Ellie 2.0 Radio – September 25, 2021

Our featured idealist is Dr. James Whitfield, a Colleyville TX high school principal (the first black high school principal) who in June 2020 wrote an impassioned letter to his school colleagues about the need to fight white supremacy; 14 months later, after only getting tremendous supportive responses to his letter, he was fired. Someone claimed…

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Covid Booster Shots

Dr. Anthony Fauci discusses booster shots this week with Freddie Bell. Jay Haapala from AARP Minnesota talks about moving scams. Kitty Harris from the Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center gives details about Breast Cancer testing. Joe McKenzie, founder of Ripple Connects talks about discovering your super powers. Special thanks to Unity South Twin Cities.

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Impact of FDA Approved Vaccine

Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith is an associate professor of medicine and epidemiology at the Yale School of Medicine, where she is also Associate Dean for Health Equity Research and founding Director of the Equity Research and Innovation Center join New Beginnings. She talks with Freddie Bell about FDA approval of the Covid vaccine. Co-host Joe McKenzie…

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FDA Approval of Pfizer Vaccine

Dr. Anthony Fauci, White House Advisor, shares his views on the FDA approval of the Pfizer vaccine. Co-host Joe McKenzie talks with Freddie Bell about how the pandemic is changing job-search strategies. We also acknowledge our partners including AARP Twin Cities, The Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center and Unity South Twin Cities.

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The Matt McNeil Show – September 7, 2021

On today’s show: The old lawn game marked to children, Jarts! The MN COVID-19 update Schools reopening in Minnesota and how many will likely have major COVID outbreaks The latest on the legal problems of former prominent MN Republican fundraiser Anton Lazzro How bad are things for the MN Republicans after Jennifer Carnahan’s resignation A…

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Matt McNeil Speaks with Bonnie Bina and John Peters

Matt McNeil speaks with Bonnie Bina, chair of the Douglas County DFL and John Peters, 2020 DFL state Senate opponent of Paul Gazelka. They discuss a fundraiser for rural DFLers this Saturday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Alexandria City Park with Governor Tim Walz as one of the speakers. Find more info at:…

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Covid and Protecting the Youth

Dr. Nathan Chomilo, Medical Director, Vaccine Equity Director, Minnesota Department of Health, shares his concerns in protecting the youngest Minnesotans against Covid. With regard to child, Minneapolis superintendent of schools, Ed Graff talks about masking students this Fall. Joe McKenzie offers tips on how to make career decisions during the pandemic. We also hear from…

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Vax to School

Incentive campaigns like Vax to School are underway in Minnesota. Elizabeth Ebot, Vaccine outreach Director for the Minnesota Department of Health talks with Freddie Bell. Mary Jo George, Associate State Director, AARP Minnesota outlines changes in assisted living licensure. Kitty Harris, Property Manager, Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center shares details of an upcoming Blood…

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Fighting the Delta Variant

Jan Malcom, Commissioner Minnesota Department of Health, Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan talk mitigation efforts in fighting the Delta variant. AARP Minnesota is announcing local Community Challenge Grants recipients and their work to make their communities more livable. Kitty Harris, Property Manager, Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center shares details on Moving…

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Thriving on Wild Salmon with Noah Locke – July 18, 2021

Meet Noah Locke, the Community Supported Fishery Director for the Midwest region for the Kwee-Jack Fish Company. He dives into the concept of community-supported fisheries, how he began salmon fishing and his path to working for Kwee-Jack, which currently carries out fishing in Alaska. Learn about the Alaskan experience of fishing and the protocols in…

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Vaccine Booster Shots

Dr. Anna Durbin, Epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins Public Health Department in Baltimore, MD responds to questions regarding the possible need for Covid Vaccine Booster shots. Joe McKenzie, co-host for New Beginnings talks with Freddie Bell about striving for small wins during career expansion. The rev. James Stacey, Senior Minister, Unity South Twin Cities continues a…

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Wall of Power Radio Hour – July 31, 2021

We had a great conversation with many of the players that are involved with the Honeybee Festival taking place at the Oldenburg House in Carlton, MN on August 6-7, 2021. We started with Scott Lillo who is on the Board of Directors for the OACC.org (Oldenburg Arts Community and Conservation.) We also spoke with Jeff…

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Matt Gertz of Media Matters (7/30/21)

Brett Johnson recently spoke with Matt Gertz of Media Matters. They discussed two of Matt’s most recent writings for Media Matters, including “Tucker Carlson’s NSA allegation fell apart, so he’s lying about it” and “Fox News manufactures dissent over officers’ searing select committee testimony.”

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The Delta Variant

Dr. Michael Osterholm Epidemiologist and professor, University of Minnesota, and presidential advisor talks with Freddie Bell about the spread of the coronavirus delta variant. Jay Haapala, Associate Director of Community Engagement for AARP Minnesota shares eye-opening updates on the latest scams. The Rev. James Stacey, Senior Minister, Unity South Twin Cities begins a lesson on…

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Vaccine Hesitancy

Dr. Nathan Chomilo, Vaccine Equity Director, Minnesota Department of Health , talks with Freddie Bell concerning vaccine hesitancy among some state residents. Joe McKenzie tells how to stand out in the hiring process. Kitty Harris, Property Manager, Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center shares details about an event involving the Senior Rock Group, Alive and…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – July 17, 2021

With this being Pride Weekend in the Twin Cities, our theme is “Pride and Puppies.” We begin by highlighting the recent executive order of Governor Walz that directs health insurers in MN to attest that they don’t provide coverage for conversion therapy—the practice of trying to counsel LGBTQ youth to suppress their sexual or gender…

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Kendall Scudder on TX Dem Walkout

Brett Johnson spoke with Kendall Scudder, host of the podcast “Pod Bless Texas.” They discussed Texas Democrats leaving the state to block a right wing voter suppression bill. They also talk about what kind of pressure needs to be put on national Democrats to get a voting rights bill passed through Congress.

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Protection Against Delta Variant

Dr. Nathan Chomilo, Vaccine Equity Director for the Minnesota Department of Health says current vaccines offer protection against the Delta variant. Joe McKenzie, co-host on New Beginnings says telling your career story is important in advancing your career. The Rev. James Stacey, Senior Minister at Unity South Twin Cities, continues a lesson on “What is…

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New Vaccine Initiatives

Elizabeth Ebot, Vaccine Equity Director for the Minnesota Department of Health, outlines initiatives designed to help keep people safe from Covid variants. New Beginnings Co-host Joe McKenzie examines how your career can be vibrant even after 50 years old. A previous AARP Andrus Award recipient says nominations are open for this year’s honor. Kitty Harris,…

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Vaccine Programs

Vaccine Director for the Minnesota Department of Health, Elizabeth Ebot talks with us about special programs designed to more people vaccinated. Kitty Harris, property Manager for the Cora MCCorvey Health and Wellness Center share details of a major reopening. AARP Minnesota says nominations are now open for the Andrus Awards. Joe McKenzie, founder of Ripple…

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Vaccine Event

A huge vaccine event took place in Minneapolis’ Northside today. It was hosted by by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. State Epidemiologist Kris Ehressmann comments about the event. We also learn more about the effectiveness of COVID 19 vaccines. As COVID is on the retreat in Minnesota, The Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center is…

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Essential Oils as a Practical Solution with Joyce Sobotta – June 13, 2021

Meet Joyce Sobotta, a breast health educator and founder of Healthy Girl’s Breast Oil and Aromatherapy Nature’s Way. She shares her journey of how she was introduced to essential oils and the way she took it further and created special blends for treating common ailments like sleeplessness and muscle pain. Sobotta also creates customized blends…

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Relationship Roles in Career Choices

Kris Ehressmann, Director of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology for the Minnesota Department of Health clarifies Mask Mandates and talks with Freddie Bell about the increasing vaccine take rates. New Beginnings Co-Host Joe McKenzie examines the role relationships play in career choices. The Rev. James Stacey, Senior Minister, Unity South Twin Cities begins a four-part lesson…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – May 22, 2021

We begin this week featuring Mercy for Animals (MFA), an international animal protection nonprofit that works to prevent cruelty to farmed animals, and which promotes compassionate food choices and policies. One of the ways that MFA operates is through investigations where people go undercover into factory farms or animal processing sites to document and record…

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Critical Steps in Your Career Path

Elizabeth Ebot Vaccine Director for the Minnesota Department of Health says COVID Vaccines are now open to people as young as 12 years old. Freddie Bell and Joe McKenzie discuss critical steps forward along your career path. We also hear from AARP Minnesota and Unity South Twin Cities. Special thanks to West Metro Hypnosis and…

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New Vaccine Eligibility

Twelve to fifteen year-olds are now eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines. Elizabeth Ebot, Vaccine Outreach Director for the Minnesota Department of Health discusses the details with Freddie Bell. To thrive in our economy, New Beginnings co-host, Joe McKenzie tells how to become a discerning job seeker. Thanks to AARP Minnesota for information from Rainbow Health,…

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Vaccine Distribution Methods

State of Minnesota Vaccine Coordinator, Elizabeth Ebot, shares information about unique methods the state is using to get vaccine into the arms of its residents. Jay Haapala, Associate Director for Community Engagement for AARP Minnesota provides help on protecting you from new scams. New Beginnings Co-host Joe McKenize talks about new hiring trends as a…

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Mobile Vaccine Clinics

Elizabeth Ebot The Vaccine Director for Minnesota talks about Mobile Vaccine Clinics and administering the shots to those 16 and over. We learn about an upcoming Mammogram event coming up later this month at the Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center and the latest scams from AARP Minnesota. Special thanks to co-host Joe McKenzie, West…

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Reopening of the Economy

How job seekers leverage the reopening of the economy is Joe McKenzie’s focus this weekend on New Beginnings. Freddie Bell and the New Beginnings team also share Covid Vaccination information. Special thanks to The Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center, AARP Twin Cities, West Metro Hypnosis, The Minnesota Department of Health and Unity South Twin…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – May 1, 2021

Our featured idealist is Van Jones, best-selling author, nonprofit creator, and CNN commentator, who’s used his imagination to change the social justice landscape. The Big Interview is with Fawzia Kahn, a physician-turned-artist, whose installation, “Becoming Visible,” highlights the invisible roles that women play. I’m happy to say that I was one of the women featured…

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The First Halal-Certified Skincare and Wellness for Everyone with Annie Qaiser – May 2, 2021

Meet Annie Qaiser, the founder and creator of Silk Road Wellness, the first Halal-certified wellness brand in the U.S. Qaiser explains the various benefits of the natural ingredients in her skincare and wellness products that abide by prophetic traditions. Her brand integrates South Asian common remedies into our routine care seamlessly. To learn more, go…

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Volunteering as a Career Growth Plan

Elizabeth Ebot, Vaccine Outreach Coordinator, MDH talks about the pause in the Johnson and Johnson vaccine as well as the new Vaccine site at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Epidemiologist, Dr. Michael Osterholm talks about vaccines for younger children. New Beginnings Co-host Joe Mckenzie, says volunteering is an often overlooked career growth plan. We also hear…

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Healing Through the Power of Naturopathy with Dr. Margaret Litchi Miller – April 18, 2021

Meet Dr. Margaret Litchey-Miller of Neighborhood Naturopathic in Edina, MN. Dr. Litchey-Miller is an expert on naturopathic medicine who helps to identify and resolve disturbances in an individuals’ health by supporting their body’s inherent capacity to function optimally. She shares her journey of becoming a naturopathic doctor and explains the common maladies in women’s health.…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – April 17, 2021

Our featured idealist is Katie Porter, the California Congresswoman who represents Orange County and who’s known for using a whiteboard when questioning witnesses testifying before Congress. The Big Interview is with Sondra Samuels who shares about The Itasca Project’s “First Thousand Days” initiative aimed at protecting the physical and mental health of babies in their…

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Vaccines and Springtime

As Springtime is upon us, and Epidemiologist Michael Osterholm tells Freddie Bell there could be darker days ahead. Property Manager Kitty Harris from the Cora McCorvey health and Wellness Center talks about the vaccination activity at her property. Joe McKenzie continues a discussion about unearthing the Hidden Job Market.

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Improving Vaccine Access

Dr. Nathan Chomilo, the new Vaccine Equity Director for the State of Minnesota talks with Freddie Bell about improving access for Minnesotans. New Beginnings Co-Host Joe McKenzie shares details concerning the hidden job market. Special thanks to the Cora MCCorvey Health and Wellness Center, AARP MN, and Unity South Twin Cities.

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – April 3rd, 2021

This week’s idealist is Steven Donziger, an attorney who took on Chevron for polluting the Ecuadoran jungle and won a $9.5 billion judgment. When Donziger attempted to collect the judgment, Chevron fought back; now Donziger is on his 600th+ day of home confinement awaiting a contempt of court trial. The Big Interview is with Jamey…

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Relieving Stress During Difficult Times

Elizabeth, Vaccine Outreach Director for Minnesota’s Vaccine Response Team shares the benefits of having received the COVID-19 vaccine. Co-host Joe McKenzie shares tips for relieving stress during difficult times. We also thank our partners from AARP Twin Cities, the Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center and Unity South Twin Cities.

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Choosing to Heal Naturally with Melissa Cathcart – March 28, 2021

Meet Melissa Cathcart of Dynamic Functional Healing in Minneapolis, MN, an expert in acupuncture and natural healing. Cathcart talks about her journey and explains concepts like visceral manipulation and pelvic floor rehabilitation, and how alternative healing methods can be used to treat various health conditions. Learn how she combines acupuncture, natural therapy, and rehab as…

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Stand Out As a Job Candidate

Knowing what makes you stand out as a job candidate could be a key to your success. Joe McKenzie explains. The AARP MN supported Twin Cities Jazz Festival continues operating in the pandemic. This week, we learn more about Thursday Night Jazz. Listen for special contributions from Unity South Twin Cities, West Metro Hypnosis, and…

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Career Transition

Rough days are ahead, Dr. Michael Osterholm’s warning, even as new vaccine’s come onto the scene. He is among the nation’s leading epidemiologists. Kitty Harris, Property Manager, Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center talks about inoculating seniors residing in the city’s public housing facilities. Joe McKenzie of Ripple Connects talks about career transition and preparing…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – March 13, 2021

Our highlighted idealist is Marc Elias, an attorney who’s represented the Democratic National Committee and many other Dem entities; he also served as general counsel to the election campaigns of John Kerry and Hillary Clinton. Most importantly, he oversaw efforts to protect President Biden’s win versus the Big Lie about election fraud and he’s now…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – March 6, 2021

We begin with a story about Stockton CA’s experiment of giving 125 random people $500/mo. for two years, no string attached. The results of this experiment are in and they show that overwhelmingly, people didn’t spend the stipend on cigarettes or alcohol, but instead on necessities in ways that greatly improved their lives. I also…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – February 27, 2021

Our featured historical idealist is Chiune Sugihara, who as a Japanese diplomat posted to Lithuania in the summer of 1940 provided thousands of visas to Jews seeking to escape persecution. By some estimates, Chiune’s actions benefited 100,000 people (those who escaped and their descendants). The Big Interview is with Benya Kruas, co-founder of Lead for…

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Pathways to a Second Career

Freddie Bell talks with Elizabeth Ebot, the Vaccine Outreach Director to Minnesota’s Covid Vaccine Response Team. We learn about the Vaccine Connector. Joe McKenzie of Ripple Connects shares various pathways to a second career. Special thanks to AARP Twin Cities, The Cora McCorvey Health and Wellness Center and Unity South Twin Cities.

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Engaging Your Professional Network

Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has served as the Director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases since 1984, joins Freddie Bell on New Beginnings this week. Co-host Joe McKenize talks about engaging your professional network to enhance your career. It’s the start of tax time and Freddie has some important information. We acknowledge…

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Integrating Herbs in Your Daily Life with Linda Conroy – February 21, 2021

Meet Linda Conroy, practicing herbalist and the owner of Moonwise Herbs based in Stoughton, WI, and the founder of the Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference. Conroy discusses how herbs can be used for relaxation and wellness as well as incorporated in our daily routine to boost our health. Learn about the various categories of herbs and…

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Matt McNeil Show for February 22, 2021

On today’s show Matt talks about how streaming services have changed movie and TV awards season. The MN COVID-19 update. Torey Van Oot, Twin Cities reporter for Axios, joins Matt during the 2nd half of hour 1. Mike Lindell is facing a 1.3 billion dollar lawsuit from Dominion over his fake election fraud claims. And…

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Minneapolis City Counil Member Jeremy Schroeder (2/19/21)

Brett Johnson spoke with Minneapolis City Council Member Jeremy Schroeder (ward 11) about a proposed city charter amendment that would change police and law enforcement in Minneapolis. They discussed how the amendment would create a new city department of public safety and how oversight of law enforcement would change under the proposal.

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DFL House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (2/5/21)

Brett Johnson is joined by DFL house majority leader Ryan Winkler (46A) as they talk about Winkler’s bill that would legalize recreational cannabis in Minnesota. They discuss what his bill would do and efforts being made to get Republican senators on board. They also talked about COVID economic relief packages being proposed at the legislature.

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Prof. David Rapp on the Psychology of Believing Disinformation

Brett Johnson recently spoke with Minnesota native and Northwestern University psychology professor David Rapp. They discussed a topic David has been studying for the past few years, the psychology of why people believe disinformation. It’s an especially important topic in the wake of the January 6 Capitol attack.

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The Vaccine Rollout

Lynn Bahta is a public health nurse at the Minnesota Department of Health. As a vaccine expert, she is sharing information about a vaccine program launched this week. Shirlynn LaChapelle, of the Minnesota Black Nurses Association, and Yolanda Adams Lee are working together to help Minnesotans manage their health during COVID-19. They talked about their…

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Ellie 2.0 Radio – January 24, 2021

It’s an Ellie’s Talking Head Show and this week’s featured idealist is Amanda Gorman, the 22-year-old Poet Laureate who recited at the Inaugural. I also share about two instances of humans being good to other humans. In my C-Block, I make an offer to speak at schools and churches in my effort to spread a…

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