Loraine Ballard Morrill

Loraine Ballard Morrill

Listen to Loraine on Insight on Sundays 6-7am + keep up on her latest news updates here!Full Bio

Insight Spotlight: Marsha Greene-Jones, Deputy Director of Employee Benefits on City Careers

What's Going On: City of Philadelphia Career Opportunities, Avoiding Scams

I’m joined by Marsha Greene-Jones, Deputy Director of Employee Benefits for the City of Philadelphia. Marsha provides an in-depth look at the innovative programs designed to support the health, well-being, and work-life balance of City employees. From wellness initiatives to retirement security, we explore how these programs foster personal and professional success.   To learn more about career opportunities with the City of Philadelphia, visit www.work.phila.gov.  

 With so many scams out there, it’s important to know the red flags that can keep you and your loved ones safe. In this episode, I sit down with U.S. Postal Inspector George Clark, who gives us an inside look at some of the most common scams, how they operate, and tips to avoid falling victim. Learn how to protect yourself from fraud and spot potential scammers before it’s too late. For more information, visit:
U.S. Postal Inspection Service
FBI: Common Scams and Crimes    

Insight Pt. 2: Career Opportunities w/ City of Philadelphia, Jai the Gentleman

Navigating the world as both Black and gay comes with unique challenges at the intersection of race and sexuality. I sit down with Jai the Gentleman, host of the Dear Black Gay Men Podcast and founder of the Banned Book Club. Together, we delve into the powerful ways he’s elevating conversations around visibility, acceptance, and equality  Connect with Jai the Gentleman:First,  I’m joined by Marsha Greene-Jones, Deputy Director of Employee Benefits for the City of Philadelphia. Marsha provides an in-depth look at the innovative programs designed to support the health, well-being, and work-life balance of City employees. From wellness initiatives to retirement security, we explore how these programs foster personal and professional success.   To learn more about career opportunities with the City of Philadelphia, visit www.work.phila.gov.  

Insight Pt. 1: An Affordable Housing Opportunity

As housing costs continue to rise, the need for affordable, accessible homes is one of the most pressing challenges facing communities nationwide. Philadelphia Housing Authority President & CEO, Kelvin A. Jeremiah, shares details about a new partnership aimed at renovating 53 vacant and distressed homes in the rapidly changing Brewerytown neighborhood of North Philadelphia. These homes will be made affordable for low- and middle-income families, helping to create sustainable and inclusive communities.
Learn more at www.pha.phila.gov.

What's Going On: Committee of Seventy, "Boost Up for Winter," Death Clock

Where can you find trusted information about elections, the political process, and even how to run for office? My go-to is the Committee of Seventy, celebrating 120 years of fostering active civic engagement. I speak with Lauren Cristella, President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, about their mission and resources.Links:
We also highlight iHeartMedia Philadelphia's partnership with Boost Mobile and Cradles to Crayons® for the "Boost Up for Winter" campaign, running through December 22nd. This initiative aims to collect and distribute 20,000 warm winter coats and essential items to children and families in need across Greater Philadelphia. I chat with Shawn Anderson, Director of Sales and Distribution for Boost Mobile, and Michal Smith, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons, about the campaign's life-changing impact.

Finally, I speak with Brent Franson, founder of Death Clock, about this revolutionary app that combines data science, AI, and existential curiosity to help users visualize the potential outcomes of their daily habits. Brent shares how the app’s newest AI feature predicts future appearances and offers tips to age gracefully—or even reverse the clock.Links:

Insight Pt. 2: A Prayer for the Nation, Fathers and Children Together, Death Clock

Join us for another edition of Insight,  featuring Pastor Nick Taliaferro of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, as he shares details about a Citywide Prayer Gathering for our city and nation. The event takes place December 1st, 3:00-5:00 PM, at Zion Baptist Church, located at Broad and Venango.

We also delve into the inspiring work of Fathers and Children Together (FACT), an extraordinary program that strengthens bonds between incarcerated fathers at SCI Phoenix and their children, breaking the cycle of incarceration. I speak with Keturah Moore, President of FACT, alongside mothers Sierra Brooks, Rochelle Hill, and seven-year-old Abdullah Holder, who share their heartfelt stories


.Later, I explore the intersection of technology and self-awareness with Brent Franson, founder of Death Clock. This revolutionary app uses data science, AI, and existential curiosity to visualize the impact of daily habits. Brent discusses the app's latest AI feature, which predicts future appearances and offers practical tips for graceful aging or even turning back the clock.Links:

Insight Pt. 1: Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati - VLS Journeys

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati welcomes Dr. Jim Smith Jr., “The World’s #1 Speaker and Performance Coach,” to share valuable tips on maintaining mental wellness during the holiday season. Dr. Smith also joins us for the monthly segment, “What is Philadelphia Reading?”, where we dive into the books shaping minds and conversations.

Learn more about Dr. Jim Smith Jr.:
https://www.drjamessmithjr.com/

What's Going On: Fine Wine and Good Spirits Holiday Advice, Author Colin Hamilton, Great Family Gathering

 I chat with Russell Johnson, Wine Specialist at Fine Wine & Good Spirits, who shares expert tips for creating unforgettable holiday wine pairings. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or looking to master wine and food pairings, Russell offers invaluable advice to elevate your celebrations. For more ideas, visit the “Learn & Entertain” section at FWGS.com, and check out the “Recipes” section for creative cocktail inspiration.  

 Next, we explore the vital role of libraries as community hubs. I speak with Colin Hamilton, celebrated author and arts advocate, about his latest book, The Discarded, and his recent talk at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Author Series. Joining us is Daniel Blank, who leads the library’s Author Events program, to preview upcoming speakers and events. Learn more at colinhamiltonwriter.com and Free Library Author Events.  

I speak about  the inspiring work of Lavanda “Bonnie” Earl and Sabrina Adams, organizers of the annual Great Family Gathering. Each year, this initiative provides Thanksgiving dinner and school supplies to over 5,000 homeless individuals. Learn how you can contribute to this impactful effort by donating here.  

Insight Pt. 2: Philadelphia Tribune's 140 Anniversary, PA Youth Vote, Great Family Gathering

We celebrate the 140th anniversary of The Philadelphia Tribune, America’s oldest continuously published African American newspaper. I sit down with Robert Bogle, the Tribune’s esteemed Publisher, to discuss the legacy of this iconic institution, its commitment to advocacy, and its role as a cornerstone of Philadelphia's media landscape. Learn more about the Tribune’s remarkable history at phillytrib.com.

Next, I speak with Kamryn Davis, Philadelphia Regional Director of PA Youth Vote, about the 2024 election results and their impact on Black women, youth, and marginalized communities. Kamryn shares her insights on empowering first-time voters, creating collective power, and inspiring long-term civic engagement. Stay connected with PA Youth Vote:First, I talk with Lavanda “Bonnie” Earl and Sabrina Adams about the annual Great Family Gathering, which provides Thanksgiving dinner and school supplies to over 5,000 homeless individuals. Learn how you can support this life-changing event by donating here: GoFundMe.

Insight Pt. 1: iHeartMedia, Boost Mobile, Cradles to Crayon's Boost Up for Winter

iHeartMedia Philadelphia has partnered with Boost Mobile and Cradles to Crayons® for the "Boost Up for Winter" campaign, running through December 22nd. This large-scale community coat drive supports Cradles to Crayons' Gear Up for Winter initiative, with a goal of collecting and distributing 20,000 warm winter coats and essential items to children and families in need across Greater Philadelphia. Items will be distributed through Cradles to Crayons’ network of Service Partners, including hospitals, schools, and community centers. In this episode, I speak with Shawn Anderson, Director of Sales and Distribution for Boost Mobile, and Michal Smith, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons, about the campaign's impact. Learn more and get involved at iHeartMedia Cradles to Crayons Boost Up for Winter.