365 Amplified
From Madison365, weekly discussion of the news for and from Wisconsin's communities of color and allies.
info_outline
Who Are Wisconsin Schools Really Working For?
12/19/2025
Who Are Wisconsin Schools Really Working For?
This week on 365 Amplified, Rob Chappell, Omar Waheed, and Stephanie Díaz de León dig into Wisconsin’s latest school district report cards and ask a hard question: who actually benefits from how schools are graded? The conversation explores racial achievement gaps, how DPI weights “economically disadvantaged” students, and why some districts can earn top scores while deep racial disparities remain. The crew also reacts to the newly announced women’s soccer team, Rally Madison, unpacking the name, branding, symbolism, and fan response — plus what it says about women’s sports, marketing, and who teams are really built for. Later, Rob sits down with Fitchburg City Council member Donald Dantzler, who’s running for re-election and for Dane County Board. Dantzler reflects on his first term, major city projects, housing and transportation challenges, and why county government plays such a critical — and often overlooked — role in people’s daily lives. The episode wraps with the weekly question: if you had a warning label, what would it say?
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39464340
info_outline
The No Wax Cloud Dancer Edition
12/12/2025
The No Wax Cloud Dancer Edition
As promised after last week's grammar discussion, Rob talks through the etymology of the word "sincere" and Omar coins a new slang term. All that only after: We get updates on stories we've been following in the Sun Prairie Area School District and the Dane County Department of Human Services.' We look ahead to the CEOs of Tomorrow "Pitch and Launch" event this weekend We note a few local elected officials who announced this week that they're running again Rock County Board Supervisor Genia Stevens joins us to tell us why she's not running again, how Rock County JumpStart is expanding and what new endeavor she's launching We make note of the "Color of the Year" and the issues with this year's selection Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism! If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Every donation through the end of the year is doubled! Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions on BlueSky, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39378105
info_outline
It's Bazaar & Gala Season
12/05/2025
It's Bazaar & Gala Season
In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, the team dives into a busy stretch of community events, local politics, sports news, and a thoughtful conversation with the leaders of the Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals. Highlights Holiday Black Bazaar returns bigger than ever, featuring 50+ Black-owned vendors, performances, and community gathering space at the Hub. Profile: Percy Brown — Omar talks about the new Carey Middle School principal and his winding journey through education and DEI work. Governor’s race update — Mandela Barnes enters; the crew discusses timing, name recognition, new potential candidates, and what redistricting could mean for 2026. Judo phenom — Seventh-grader Ilion Hoskins heads to Peru to represent Team USA at the Pan American Championships. Sports roundup — Badger volleyball advances in NCAA play; Forward Madison re-signs Derek Gebhard and adds veteran defender Mark Segbers; the new Madison women’s team unveils its branding December 12. Milwaukee soccer stadium — Still in the works, but no ground broken yet. Feature Interview Current and incoming YP presidents Kayla Conklin and Déja Mason join the show to discuss: YP’s growth and Central Region Chapter of Excellence recognition Why affinity spaces matter for young Black professionals Goals for 2026, including community service, advocacy, leadership development, and food security work
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39287980
info_outline
Will Rodney Rave be Wisconsin's first Native member of Congress?
11/28/2025
Will Rodney Rave be Wisconsin's first Native member of Congress?
On the podcast today, Rob talks through a few news items before chatting with Rodney Rave, who's running for Congress in Wisconsin's Third Congressional District, which covers most of Western Wisconsin. A former Ho-Chunk Nation legislator, Rave could become the first Indigenous person to represent the state in Washington. Today's episode is brought to you by . Support local nonprofit news at . All donations from now until December 31 will be matched!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39197405
info_outline
What is community journalism? with Kynala Phillips
11/21/2025
What is community journalism? with Kynala Phillips
Rob's flying solo today, with a few news updates: a new Congressional candidate in western Wisconsin, an effort to support a beloved local musician who collapsed on stage after a heart attack last week, a recap of Madison College's first-ever trip to the national junior college men's soccer tournament, and a review of "Planets as Stars," the poetry-driven performance we previewed on the podcast last week. Then, he talks to Kynala Phillips, the editor of a new community journalism project at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and an alum of Madison365's internship. Finally, he offers a bit of the Madison365 origin story, our philosophy, what community journalism means to us, and why we need you your support. All donations are doubled when you give now at .
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39118585
info_outline
A "cosmic romp" & local news controversy
11/14/2025
A "cosmic romp" & local news controversy
On the podcast today, Rob, Stephanie and Omar talk through some local news, including a summit of Milwaukee social justice nonprofits, a snow removal apprenticeship program and the Madison College soccer team's first-ever trip to the national tournament. Then, poet and performer Gina Cornejo joins the show to preview her new production at Theatre LILA, "Planets as Stars," opening this weekend. Then, we have an update on Channel 3000's unethical and erroneous reporting on Urban Triage and consider the larger context of racism and media ethics.
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/39030390
info_outline
A false news story, a response and what it all means
11/07/2025
A false news story, a response and what it all means
This week, News 3 Now published an erroneous news story about Madison-based nonprofit Urban Triage, and . On the podcast today, Rob, Nicholas and Omar talk through how that went down and what it means for the larger landscape of journalism and media. Plus, this weekend, Midwest Mujeres is hosting its fifth annual "Yo Quiero Dinero" storytelling event, so founder Araceli Ezparza and production manager Jonathan Delgado join the show for a preview, and Omar has a recap of the annual Black Parents Summit with Madison schools. It's NewsMatch time! Your donations in support of nonprofit local media are DOUBLED until the end of the year. .
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38949075
info_outline
FoodShare ends this weekend
10/31/2025
FoodShare ends this weekend
Hosts: Rob Chappell, Stephanie Díaz de León, Omar Waheed Guest: Prenicia Clifton Episode Overview This week, the team covers the end of SNAP benefits and its impact on Wisconsin families and small businesses, the return of Madison Nonprofit Day, the growing threat of media capture, and a few lighter conversations to close the show — including conspiracy theories they wish were true. SNAP Benefits Ending Nearly 700,000 Wisconsinites are about to lose Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as of November 1. Rob, Stephanie, and Omar discuss what this means for food pantries, families, and local economies. They also highlight that federal workers are unpaid during the shutdown and that the ripple effects extend to small businesses and farmers. LOUD's New Gallery Space Omar talks with Oscar Morales, founder of Latinos Organizing for Understanding and Development (LOUD), about opening a new gallery at Next Wave Studios on Madison’s east side. The first artist in residence, La Pistola from Oaxaca, led workshops and connected with Madison’s growing arts scene. Media Capture and the Importance of Local News Rob discusses a recent episode of the Question Everything podcast, focusing on “media capture” — when governments or their allies take control of the media. Starting November 1, every donation to Madison365 will be doubled through the Institute for Nonprofit News’ matching fund. Madison Nonprofit Day Returns Guest: Prenicia Clifton, organizer of Madison Nonprofit Day, joins to preview the event’s return on Friday, November 7 at TruStage. She explains that it’s a professional development opportunity for nonprofit professionals, board members, and community leaders — with sessions on funding, collaboration, safety, and leadership transitions. “Professional development is often the last thing invested in,” Clifton says. “But we need to develop ourselves to serve our communities safely and effectively.” Highlights include: Opening panel with Angela Davis (Madison Community Foundation), Angela Russell (TruStage), Renée Moe (United Way of Dane County), and Shiva Bidar-Sielaff (UW Health) Workshops on fundraising, partnership, and succession planning Clifton’s keynote on preventing abuse in youth-serving spaces Social Impact Happy Hour recognizing local changemakers 🎟️ Register: Roundtable Question: Conspiracy Theories We Wish Were True 365 Amplified is produced by Rob Chappell for the 365 Media Foundation, a nonprofit local media organization in Madison, Wisconsin. Follow Madison365 on , , , , and .
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38854980
info_outline
Pumpkins, politics & a rising Disney star
10/24/2025
Pumpkins, politics & a rising Disney star
Hosts: Rob Chappell, Stephanie Díaz de León, and Omar Waheed Guest: Nate Buescher, UW–Madison freshman and star of Disney Channel’s Electric Bloom Runtime: 53:38 On this week's podcast, we catch up on a range of news stories from the week, and get acquainted with a new neighbor who's a rising Disney star. 🌟 Leadership Summit Preview The eighth annual 365 Leadership Summit is just around the corner, happening Monday, November 3, at the Madison Concourse Hotel. Stephanie and Rob preview the lineup: Opening panel “Leadership Unscripted” with Henry Sanders, Dr. Sagashus Livingston, Karen Menendez Coller of Centro Hispano, and Chairman Tehassi Hill of the Oneida Nation. Honoring the 2025 Most Influential Leaders at the evening celebration. Presented by UW Credit Union and other key sponsors. “It feels like a homecoming,” Stephanie says — a reunion for changemakers across Wisconsin. Register now at . 🔫 Moms Demand Action at the Capitol Omar reports from the State Capitol, where Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action held their annual Advocacy Day, pushing for six common-sense gun safety measures: Banning guns on college campuses Universal background checks Extreme risk protection orders (“Red Flag Laws”) Tax-free gun safes Stricter liability for unsafe firearm storage Background checks for gun store employees Stephanie reminds listeners that “the Second Amendment is not absolute,” and Rob notes that every proposal sounded “pretty sensible.” 📚 Wisconsin Book Festival: Shobha Rao Returns Omar recaps his interview with novelist Shobha Rao, author of Indian Country, ahead of her Wisconsin Book Festival appearance. The book explores land, memory, and identity through a murder mystery lens. Rao recalls her “healing” time living in Madison as a young adult and her love of Wisconsin's own Laura Ingalls Wilder. 🏫 MMSD’s $507 Million Plan Madison voters approved a massive school facilities referendum, and the Sherman and Shabazz schools are first in line for new buildings. Omar details plans for larger classrooms, separate libraries, and a 13,500-square-foot gym — all ready by September 2027. Stephanie highlights how basic needs like warmth, air flow, and space “deeply affect how kids learn.” 🥫 SNAP Benefits Suspended Rob reports troubling news: 700,000 Wisconsinites could lose access to FoodShare (SNAP) benefits starting November 1 due to the federal government shutdown. The panel discusses who’s affected — families, seniors, and the disabled — and pushes back on myths about “lazy” recipients. 🎬 Guest Interview: Nate Buescher, Star of Electric Bloom Rob chats with Nate Buescher, a freshman at UW–Madison and co-star of Disney’s new teen series Electric Bloom, now streaming on Disney+. Nate shares: How he landed the role after months of auditions Filming in California and the culture shock from Chicago winters to LA His plans to study biology while continuing acting His lifelong passion for storytelling — from Weebles Wobbles commercials at age seven to now being part of Disney’s next big friendship series. “Even though the show’s for tweens,” Nate says, “my grandma watches it — and she loves it.” 💬 The Question: “What’s Your Ratio?” In the closing segment, Stephanie poses this week’s question: “What’s your ratio of pretending to know what’s going on versus actually knowing what’s going on?” After a wild story about a $88 million jewel heist at the Louvre, the crew confesses to plenty of “confident BSing.” Omar admits he’s “winging it 70% of the time,” while Rob recalls faking his way through a grad seminar, and somehow getting away with it. 🎧 Subscribe & Follow 365 Amplified is produced and edited by Rob Chappell for 365 Media Foundation, a nonprofit local independent media organization based in Madison, Wisconsin. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow Madison365 on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and Bluesky.
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38765780
info_outline
"Fascism aims to divide us:" a conversation with Francesca Hong
10/17/2025
"Fascism aims to divide us:" a conversation with Francesca Hong
Rob and Omar kick off this week’s 365 Amplified with stories making headlines across Madison365: Hmong New Year 50th Anniversary – A preview of this year’s celebration marking 50 years since Hmong families began arriving in Wisconsin, emphasizing renewed connections with elders and cultural traditions. Indigenous Business Conference – Omar reports from Milwaukee’s Potawatomi Casino, where hundreds of Indigenous entrepreneurs and tribal leaders gathered to discuss sovereignty, new trade opportunities, and economic independence. Funding Cuts for Nonprofits – At Madison’s Progress Center for Black Women, Alder Sabrina Madison called on the community to help sustain local nonprofits as public and philanthropic support declines, citing new data on wage and health disparities affecting Black women. No Kings Rallies – A look ahead to Saturday’s nationwide “No Kings” demonstrations, the difference between protests and rallies, and the importance of visible collective action in defending democracy. Main Interview: Rep. Francesca Hong The first Asian American member of the Wisconsin Assembly joins Rob to discuss her run for governor and her vision for a state grounded in community care and resistance to authoritarianism. Topics include: Why She’s Running: Hong frames her campaign as a movement against fascism and a push for imagination, solidarity, and working-class power. Public Safety and Community Protection: She calls for state action to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and urges residents to report ICE activity through community hotlines rather than social media. Economic and Care Policies: Universal child care up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, paid leave for all, and investment in care workers to strengthen families and local economies. Public Bank Proposal: Modeled after North Dakota’s public bank and Wisconsin’s existing WEDC infrastructure to provide low-interest loans and grants to small businesses. Healthcare Reform: Expand BadgerCare, hold large hospital systems accountable for costs, and reduce premiums for small business employees. Movement Building: Encouraging Democrats to compete in every district and support local candidates to build lasting working-class power statewide. On Protest and Democracy: Hong calls protest “direct democracy” and urges Wisconsinites to show up in the streets as visible proof that they are not alone in fighting fascism. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38611420
info_outline
Madison's first woman-centered sports bar is coming soon
10/10/2025
Madison's first woman-centered sports bar is coming soon
Two big stories to discuss on the podcast today: first, editor-in-chief David Dahmer joins the pod to preview the opening of Bernell's, Madison's first sports bar focused on women's sports. (Don't worry, they'll show the Packers too.) Then, Omar has a recap of the Sun Prairie Area School District, where voters passed a no-confidence motion against Superintendent Brad Saron. Finally, after the requisite mentions of Forward Madison and Milwaukee Brewers, we consider: what's the sound cue you want when you enter a room? Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38537280
info_outline
Madison College has a new president
10/03/2025
Madison College has a new president
On this week's 365 Amplified, Omar and Rob talk through a tense Common Council session on a new men's homeless shelter that ended in confrontations between alders and protesters. Then, we go over a change at the University of Wisconsin, where the Office of Human Resources has eliminated its Equity, Inclusion and Employee Wellbeing Department, and what that might mean for the university's faculty and staff. Then, new Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne joins the show to discuss her vision for the college, how it fits into the fabric of the community, and how it can empower more students. And she notes two things about Madison that surprised her -- the second of which you will never guess. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38451385
info_outline
The GenXPats
09/26/2025
The GenXPats
Today on 365 Amplified, Rob, Omar and Nick give an update on what we know -- and what we still don't know -- about who's been trying to enforce Madison parks rules with unhoused people on Madison's east side. Next, we've learned a lot about some disturbing allegations that led to the arrest of the Sun Prairie West High School Dean of Students on charges of child pornography and exploitation. There's quite a bit we still don't know -- including whether or not the dean of students ever actually applied for that job. Then, lots of people have said during the Trump era that they want to leave the country, but not many have actually done it. Longtime Madison residents Jonathan and Karen Brown join the show from their new home in Cuenca, Ecuador, where they moved just days before the most recent inauguration. They share their reasons for deciding to leave the US, the preparations and process, how they've been settling in and why they consider themselves immigrants, not expats. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38368210
info_outline
"A Court of Resistance." Judicial candidate Huma Ahsan
09/19/2025
"A Court of Resistance." Judicial candidate Huma Ahsan
In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, hosts Stephanie Díaz de León, Omar Waheed, and Rob Chappell dive into a wide range of local and national stories — from media censorship and free speech battles to community leadership and grassroots democracy — before welcoming a special guest. Featured Interview: Huma Ahsan Madison attorney Huma Ahsan, candidate for Dane County Circuit Court Judge (Branch 1), joins the show to talk about her journey from immigration law to tribal courts, her work rebuilding a judicial system from scratch on the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa reservation, and why she believes Dane County needs a “court of resistance” in the current political climate. Ahsan shares her background, her approach to justice, and what she hopes to bring to the bench. Other Topics This Week: Wisconsin politics: Two new names join the race for governor, plus . : A preview of this year’s speakers and themes, from abolition to ecological restoration. Media and free speech: The FCC threatens ABC over Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks — what it means for journalism, censorship, and corporate influence. Community leadership: A look ahead to Madison365’s annual list of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Latino Leaders. The most important question: Is a taco a sandwich? Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38274910
info_outline
Affordability, Equity, and the Road to 2026: David Crowley Joins the Race
09/12/2025
Affordability, Equity, and the Road to 2026: David Crowley Joins the Race
This week on 365 Amplified, the team dives into national, state, and local news—and sits down with Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who has just entered the race for governor of Wisconsin. Highlights from this episode: Political violence and rhetoric: The hosts discuss the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, the responses from both the right and the left, and the broader implications for gun control, public safety, and accountability. Wisconsin politics: David Crowley joins the show to talk about his campaign for governor, his path from youth organizing to county executive, and his priorities for affordability, public schools, health care, and rural outreach. He also shares his pick for favorite Wisconsin-born celebrity. Statewide races: Former State Rep. JoCasta Zamarripa announces her run for Secretary of State, adding to the shakeup in Wisconsin’s political landscape. Local reporting: Omar brings updates on Dane County rangers threatening unhoused residents near Yahara Park, and the community response to protect those living outside. Community & culture: Rasta Barista hosts Madison’s first-ever Jerk and Jollof Cookoff, a celebration of Caribbean and African food that also raises funds for youth empowerment programs. Sports: This weekend, Wisconsin football has a tall order in Alabama, and it's the Henny Derby between Forward Madison and Richmond Kickers. Fun & reflections: The hosts share childhood beliefs they held onto too long (and air some pet peeves about language and punctuation). Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38189825
info_outline
The percolator incident
09/05/2025
The percolator incident
On this week's 365 Amplified: The Dane County Sheriff's Office is Milky Way Tech Hub is Urban Triage is and the North Side Festival is coming next weekend Shaunte McCullum from the Northside Planning Council joins the show with more details on that event. Plus, what annoys us most, and the trouble with Rob's new percolator. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38098570
info_outline
Fathers in Focus
08/29/2025
Fathers in Focus
On the podcast today, Rob, Nicholas and Omar get an update on the immigrant labor troubles in Monroe, and get a preview of the Wisconsin Badger volleyball season. Then, Joe Maldonado from UW Extension joins to preview the second annual Fathers in Focus confererence, coming up October 18. Today's episode is sponsored by .
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/38017280
info_outline
MGFC just fired its only Black head coach
08/22/2025
MGFC just fired its only Black head coach
On this week's podcast, Stephanie, Omar and Rob dig into two big stories from this week's news: Workers in Monroe have walked off the job after W&W Dairy's new owners, Kansas City-based Dairy Farmers of America, is forcing employees to reverify documentation status. About 40 workers, most of whom have worked there more than 10 years, are asking for a severance package for those who can't verify. Monona Grove Football Club, a local youth soccer club, has fired a volunteer coach over allegations of "berating" players on one occasion and getting into it with a ref on another; promoting her own nonprofit foundation through the club; talking positively about the club on podcasts and radio shows; and a few other allegations -- allegations she only learned about five days after she was initially fired. The director of coaching resigned in protest, and parents are up in arms. Then we bounce around this week's roudtable question: what's your most Wisconsin thing? And end up planning what sounds like a pretty decent Friday night. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37923695
info_outline
Art House 360 is open!
08/15/2025
Art House 360 is open!
Art House 360, a multicultural community arts space in Verona, officially opened with a ribbon cutting this week, and will host a fundraiser tonight. So we are revisiting our conversation with cofounders Monica Cliff and AJ Juarez from last month about where the idea and inspiration came from, and what the space hopes to offer the community.
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37831825
info_outline
A Constitutional crisis and a local recall
08/08/2025
A Constitutional crisis and a local recall
This week, Stephanie, Rob and Omar preview: Then, Rob reports on and why organizers say democracy remains under threat. Next up, the effort to recall a member of the DeForest Board of Trustees has successfully prompted a special election. Alicia Williams, who's running to replace incumbent Bill Landgraf, joins to talk about the recall effort, the campaign and what it means for local governments across the state. We finish up with a question prompted by Omar's obsession with winning a very low-stakes online auction: what's your most toxic trait? Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37725535
info_outline
The Gov race is on. Who's in?
08/01/2025
The Gov race is on. Who's in?
This week, Stephanie, Omar, Nicholas and Rob preview Dane Dances and give an update on the Village Board recall in DeForest -- including why it's important beyond the village. Then, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced last week that he will not seek a third term, setting up the first election with no incumbent since 2010. The pundit class has been speculating about who might run, so why not join in? Plus, the roundtable question: what hill will you die on, even if you're wrong? Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37630630
info_outline
Arts & Access
07/25/2025
Arts & Access
This week on 365 Amplified, Stephanie, Rob, Omar, and David dive into a packed episode featuring serious local issues, fun community events, and a deep look at a bold new arts initiative in Verona. 🧑⚕️ Omar reports on the ongoing strike at Mercy Health East, where nurses are demanding a 7% raise, better health insurance, and basic security protections. Despite making $59 million in profit last year, the health system offered only a 3% raise and refused to budge—even as CEO pay topped $11.5 million. Stephanie reflects on the community impact and priorities revealed by the strike. 🎉 Community Events Preview The team shares previews of upcoming local events: (July 26) (July 26) (August 2) 🎨 Feature Interview: Rob tours the newly launched Art House 360 in downtown Verona and sits down with co-founders Monica Cliff and AJ Juarez. They share how the former school building has been transformed into a multicultural, multidisciplinary arts space for all ages and backgrounds. Learn about the grand opening August 14 and the “Dancing With the Arts” fundraiser on August 15. 🎤 Roundtable: Most Useless Facts We Know To cap things off, the hosts swap their most random and useless trivia—from Joe Biden’s proximity to Lincoln’s presidency, to flamingo facts, octopus hearts, and the sibling rivalry that created two iconic shoe brands. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37545335
info_outline
Sunsetting DEI, switching sports & saving schools
07/11/2025
Sunsetting DEI, switching sports & saving schools
This week on 365 Amplified, Stephanie rejoins the team for a packed episode featuring tough conversations about education, equity, and opportunity. 🎓 Sunsetting Diversity at UW? The team breaks down the University of Wisconsin’s controversial decision to “sunset” the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement (DDEEA). What does that mean for scholarship programs like Posse and PEOPLE? And what’s behind the language choices? ⚖️ Disability Rights Under Scrutiny Rob provides an update on the case of Kitty Trivedi, a visually impaired student who was denied enrollment in a UW precollege program last summer. Now, the university’s Office of Compliance has launched a formal investigation into possible disability discrimination. 🏀 Future D1 Star Nick introduces us to La Follette sophomore Nyajuacni Riak, who nearly made the U16 Team USA basketball squad. She’s already dominating on the local courts — and calling out the competition. 🚣♀️ From Soccer to Rowing Charlotte Barrett, daughter of Dane County Sheriff Calvin Barrett, thought she was done with competitive sports — until Eastern Michigan offered her a Division I rowing scholarship. She’s never rowed a boat, but that’s not stopping her. 💰 MMSD Faces Funding Crisis Rob sits down with Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard to talk about the growing funding gap in Madison’s public schools, the effects of frozen federal dollars, and the looming possibility of another referendum. “We’ve never been made whole,” Gothard says. “We’re having to make decisions based on the amount that goes unfunded.” 💭 Roundtable Question: Would you rather be able to pause, rewind, or fast forward through your life — and why?
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37364990
info_outline
Foraging, football & Fortify Fitness
07/04/2025
Foraging, football & Fortify Fitness
This week on 365 Amplified, Rob Chappell, Omar Waheed, and Nicholas Garton cover a wide range of stories and conversations, from exploring the outdoors to diving deep into sports and fitness. Rob shares his experience at a foraging workshop with Color in the Outdoors, featuring Alexis Nikole Nelson, better known as @BlackForager, and author Sam Thayer. He recounts the lessons learned about wild plants, including how to make sumac lemonade and the surprising spiciness of wild mustard. Omar previews the upcoming 11th Annual Unity Picnic hosted by the Urban League of Greater Madison, set for July 26 at the Black Business Hub. Nick breaks down the NBA draft and free agency news, including Wisconsin native Kon Knueppel being selected fourth overall and the Milwaukee Bucks' bold roster moves. The crew talks about Forward Madison’s struggle at the bottom of the USL League One standings and the future of promotion and relegation in American soccer. Rob sits down with Marlo Hicks, owner of Fortify Fitness Collective in Waunakee, to talk about the gym’s five-year anniversary, the importance of finding your "why" in fitness, and Marlo’s journey from competitive rowing to building a thriving fitness community. The roundtable question of the week: What's your favorite piece of obsolete technology? Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37274165
info_outline
Wine & cupcakes!
06/27/2025
Wine & cupcakes!
Today, we announce the date and opening of registration for the eighth annual , the state's premier professional development, networking and community building event. Plus, we wrap up the sixth annual list of Wisconsin's Most Influential Asian American Leaders and share a bit of basketball news. Then, Rob Chappell visits Shakkiah Curtis at the Black Business Hub, where this weekend she celebrates the grand opening of Tailer Nicole, her wine and cupcake bar, and where she hopes to see you this weekend! Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37178220
info_outline
Madison Black Restaurant Week is coming
06/20/2025
Madison Black Restaurant Week is coming
This week, Rob Chappell brings you news and voices from the community while the rest of the team is scattered. Highlights include: 📰 Top Stories: The Center for Black Excellence and Culture announces it has raised all $31 million for construction—debt free! A Black Lives Matter sign at Crestwood Elementary is vandalized. The Girls State Soccer Tournament kicks off with Madison-area teams in the finals. Forward Madison celebrates Juneteenth with a special jersey designed by local artist Brooklyn Doby. 🍽️ Main Interview: Camille Carter, President and CEO of the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, joins Rob to preview the 10th annual Madison Black Restaurant Week, coming up August 10–17. She shares: The history and evolution of the campaign, which began with just 12 restaurants and now includes over 40 Black-owned food businesses, including caterers, food trucks, dessert makers, and more. New and returning events: the Food Taste Jamboree at Warner Park, heirloom collard greens tasting, and a farm-to-table brunch. A look ahead at community voting and the celebratory dessert mixer on Sept. 18. 👟 In the Field with Omar: Omar reports from New Orleans (via time travel) after attending the No Kings protest in Madison. He shares scenes from the massive 15,000-person rally, speakers like Nick Ramos and John Nichols (with a surprise Bernie Sanders call-in), and some striking signs from protestors. Plus, a reminder to keep the momentum going. 👷 Latino Academy Spotlight: Omar also highlights the Latino Academy of Workforce Development’s newly revived construction training program, made possible by a grant from the Lowe’s Foundation. The first cohort just graduated 15 participants—including one entire family! Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/37085655
info_outline
Chuck Brown is dead
06/13/2025
Chuck Brown is dead
In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, the team dives into the Juneteenth celebrations happening around Dane County and across Wisconsin, previews summer opportunities with the Maydm youth STEM program, and spotlights Madison Night Mares softball team in their second season. Then, Rob is joined by Anna Gonzalez, Alys Dickerson, and Patty Heaston of American Players Theatre to discuss how the repertory company is expanding access and representation in its programming. The conversation highlights their new contemporary production The Death of Chuck Brown, written and directed by Gavin Lawrence, and a community engagement event hosted at the Black Business Hub. They explore how APT is reaching new audiences through intentional casting, education outreach, and storytelling that resonates across identities and generations. Plus: a quick preview of Anna in the Tropics, APT’s upcoming first Latino-written mainstage production, and this weekend's Big Gay Market. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/36978195
info_outline
We Tell the News
06/06/2025
We Tell the News
This week, the 365 Amplified crew covers a range of timely and thought-provoking topics: 🏥 Meriter Nurses Win Contract Fight Omar recaps the surprising outcome of the Meriter nurses' five-day strike, which ended in a new contract featuring an 8% raise over two years and steps toward improved staffing ratios and safety accountability. 🏛️ Hospitals Shift DEI Language Amid Political Pressure Rob breaks down new reporting from Wisconsin Watch on how major healthcare systems like SSM and UW Health are altering their DEI messaging in response to anticipated federal scrutiny—raising deeper questions about equity, research, and trust in medical care. 🏳️🌈 Pride Flags and Politics The hosts react to the Wisconsin Historical Society’s quiet decision to not fly the Pride flag this year, unlike many other state institutions. The team digs into what “being political” really means—and what it says when you choose not to be. 📦 Local Business Spotlight: JNJ Gifts Wins Big Rob shares an inspiring update on mother-daughter duo Jerina Vincent and Natania Julius of JNJ Gifts, who recently won $10,000 on Project Pitch It. Their story of persistence and innovation is one to watch. 🧐 Question of the Week: What Shouldn’t Exist? The team closes the episode on a lighter note by pondering: What everyday thing should just… not exist? 👉 Know someone making a difference in Wisconsin’s Asian communities? Nominate them for the 2025 Most Influential Asian Leaders list at . Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/36885685
info_outline
"Empathy is not a bargaining chip"
05/30/2025
"Empathy is not a bargaining chip"
This week on 365 Amplified, the team dives deep into some of Wisconsin’s top stories: UnityPoint Health Meriter Nurses Strike: Omar reports from the picket line as nurses strike for better pay, safer staffing, and improved patient care. It's the first strike of its kind at Meriter, and we break down the stakes, the support, and what might come next. Read Omar's reporting and . Madison Mallards Celebrate 25 Years: Nick heads to the Duck Pond to catch the latest in family fun—including a human claw game and zip-line beer delivery—and reflects on the team’s community-first legacy. Wisconsin’s New Legislative Asian Caucus: Rob sits down with Reps. Francesca Hong, Angelito Tenorio, and Renuka Mayadev for a first-of-its-kind conversation about visibility, solidarity, and building better policy for Asian American communities across the state. Plus: A roundtable on personal contradictions and surprising, "off-brand" facts about the team. 👉 Know someone making a difference in Wisconsin’s Asian communities? Nominate them for the 2025 Most Influential Asian Leaders list at . Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/36785345
info_outline
Passing the Torch: Dr. Alex Gee hands Nehemiah over to Harry Hawkins
05/23/2025
Passing the Torch: Dr. Alex Gee hands Nehemiah over to Harry Hawkins
In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, hosts Stephanie Díaz de León, Rob Chappell, and Omar Waheed dive into local news and the real-world implications of artificial intelligence in journalism. Omar recaps his trip to Detroit for the Online News Association’s AI Summit and reflects on how media organizations must evolve alongside emerging technologies. The team also covers local news, including the opening of the Atwood Music Hall and an ongoing following a controversial fluoride vote and reported harassment of local residents. Later in the episode, Rob sits down for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Alex Gee and Harry Hawkins at Fountain of Life Church. Dr. Gee reflects on three decades of leading the Nehemiah Center for Urban Leadership Development and explains why he’s stepping aside to let Harry take the helm. Harry shares his journey from jewelry retail to nonprofit leadership and lays out his vision for Nehemiah’s next chapter — one centered on community-informed innovation, transformational leadership, and Black excellence. Plus, the team wraps the episode with a fun chat about what they wish they had endless access to. This week's episode is brought to you by , having their biggest Memorial Day sale ever right now. Connect: Full coverage at Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit to contribute. Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 | | | | 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!
/episode/index/show/itsonly10minutes/id/36685560