Blog
January 2026
Building a Creative City | Jamar Davis – ListenUp Podcast
In this episode of ListenUp with Al Neely, Jamar C. Davis shares how live events, community infrastructure, and creative leadership can shape a city’s cultural identity from the ground up.
Stories That Move a City | Councilman Cash Green – ListenUp Podcast
Councilman Cash Green joins ListenUp Podcast to discuss how stories that move a city strengthen local businesses, public service, and community trust.
The Spotlight Doesn’t Blink | Tim Loulies – ListenUp Podcast
Tim Loulies explores performance, authenticity, and staying grounded when the spotlight doesn’t blink on this ListenUp Podcast episode.
An Artist At 12? | Jalani Vicker’s – ListenUp Podcast
Jalani Vickers shares his journey as an artist at 12, highlighting creativity, mentorship, and the power of early artistic expression.
Pushed Out of Work | Al Neely – ListenUp Podcast
Al Neely explores how economic shocks, policy decisions, and stereotypes combine to push Black women out of work.
October 2025
Who Really Gets Represented | Sean Monterio – ListenUp Podcast
Sean Monterio discusses who really gets represented in Virginia Beach, breaking down voting systems, local governance, and the importance of equal representation.
When Comedy Tells the Truth | Comedian Steve Wills – ListenUp Podcast
Comedian Steve Wills explores how truth, authenticity, and life experience shape stand-up comedy on this ListenUp Podcast episode.
June 2025
Human Trafficking: The Hidden Crisis in Virginia with Patrick McKenna
Human trafficking remains one of the most devastating yet misunderstood criminal enterprises in the world today. In a revealing conversation with Patrick J. McKenna, Director of the Virginian Coalition Against Human Trafficking, we uncovered the disturbing reality of how human trafficking operates within Virginia and beyond.
The Classroom to Capitol Journey: Cheryl Smith’s Run for Virginia Delegate
Cheryl Smith's transition from classroom teacher to political candidate offers a refreshing perspective in today's divisive political landscape. After 38 years educating elementary students in Chesapeake Public Schools, Smith is now running for Virginia State Delegate in the 98th District, covering a significant portion of Virginia
She Chose Her Second Act | Comedian Kells Morton – ListenUp Podcast
Comedian Kells Morton joins ListenUp Podcast to discuss choosing a second act in comedy after a 25-year military career and embracing reinvention.
April 2025
MIchael Berlucchi : Beyond Politics: Finding Common Ground in Local Government
In a recent conversation with Councilman Michael Berlucchi, we explored the multifaceted role of local government and how community involvement shapes our neighborhoods. Berlucchi, who has served District 3 in Virginia Beach for nearly six years, brings a unique perspective that bridges civic duty with artistic
May 2025
What Happens When Leaders Fall in Love with Money Instead of People? with Merle Rutledge Jr.
In a candid and thought-provoking conversation on the "Listen Up" podcast, Merle Rutledge Jr., a former gubernatorial candidate for Virginia, shares his vision for the state and outlines his unique political perspective that transcends traditional party lines. As an NSU graduate with a background in political
March 2025
Sexual Addiction, Trauma, and Finding Grace: One Man’s Story with William Daniels
William Daniels pulls back the curtain on one of society's most hushed conversations - the sexual abuse and intimate partner violence experienced by Black men. As co-author of "The Wounded Black Man," Daniels speaks with raw honesty about growing up in an abusive household and how
From Classroom to Legislature: Justin Burns’ Vision for Virginia’s Future
A 3rd grade teacher is running to represent Virginia's District 100. Justin Burns shares how education cuts will affect Virginia's most vulnerable communities and why housing affordability is his top priority. His story shows why local elections matter. #VAVotes #ListenUp
Bridging America’s Two Justice Systems: The Fight Against Inequality in Law with Ramin Fatehi
Criminal justice reform is a complex and often misunderstood topic in today's polarized political landscape. In a recent conversation with Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk's Commonwealth Attorney, we gained valuable insights into the realities of progressive prosecution and the challenges of rebuilding trust in a system with a
February 2025
Navigating Education Policy: Tina Jenkins and Al Neely on Equity, Media Influence, and Political Engagement
In the latest episode of our podcast, we tackle the pressing issues surrounding the current state of education in America. With a new administration at the helm, there's a palpable shift in educational policies that threatens the fabric of equitable education for all students. The Department
Blame and Political Attitudes: Dr. Gail Sahar on America’s Cultural Divide
In today's politically charged landscape, the themes of blame and understanding drive critical discussions about our society. In this episode of Listen Up Podcast, we delve into the fascinating insights shared by Dr. Gayle Sahar, a professor of psychology at Wheaton College and author of "Blame
Mary Carter on Education’s Uncertain Future: Funding Challenges, Policy Shifts, and Global Implications
In a world where education is often seen as the gateway to opportunity, the conversation about college access and affordability has become increasingly complex. The latest episode of Listen Up Podcast features a candid discussion with Mary Carter, a high school college counselor who sheds light
January 2025
Brotherhood and Basketball: Tommy Long and Roscoe Brown on Norfolk State’s Legacy
In today's podcast episode, we dive deep into the stories of two remarkable Norfolk State University Spartans, Tommy Long and Roscoe Brown, who reminisce about their basketball journey and the friendships that transcended the court. Their discussions about how they got to Norfolk State are not
December 2024
The Complexity of Memory and Healing from Abuse
Megan Stover bravely joins us to recount her journey of uncovering repressed memories of sexual abuse, highlighting a painful experience from her childhood involving a church janitor. Her story uncovers the alarming realities of abuse within trusted environments, such as churches, and the complex psychological mechanisms
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