In late January 2026, Minneapolis is in upheaval after two fatal shootings involving federal immigration enforcement—incidents that have ignited days of protest and renewed demands that ICE leave the Twin Cities. The latest flashpoint: Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and nurse, was killed on Jan. 24 during a confrontation with U.S. Border Patrol/federal agents, following the earlier death of Renée Nicole Good, shot and killed on Jan. 7 by an ICE officer while she was in her vehicle. As thousands take to the streets in freezing conditions, the community is wrestling with grief, fear, and a growing insistence on accountability and transparency.Host Marcus Atkinson is joined by Deonte Cooley and Malcolm Pullium for a wide-ranging conversation connecting national headlines to local pain: the murder of Marchello Woodard in Erie, the ongoing fight for justice, and what it means—right now—for everyday citizens to raise their voices without losing their humanity. Together, they ask the hard questions: Who is protected? Who is policed? And what does responsible civic action look like when the system feels unmoved? On this episode of NEXT2.0.

On this special and deeply personal episode of NEXT2.0, the tables are turned. NEXT2.0 hostMarcus Atkinson steps out from behind the microphone as his co-hosts Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata take the lead, interviewing Marcus about his current role as Interim Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Center in the wake of the passing of longtime Executive Director James C. Sherrod.Airing on WQLN NPR 91.3 FM, this episode addresses a topic of significant public interest: the search for the MLK Center’s next permanent Executive Director. With the organization playing a vital role in Erie’s civic, cultural, and social justice landscape, the transition has drawn thoughtful questions and deep concern from the community.In this candid and transparent conversation, Marcus discusses: The immediate challenges following a sudden leadership loss The board’s approach to stability, stewardship, and continuity How the Executive Director search process is being structured The importance of public trust, accountability, and clear communicationThis interview is part of a broader effort by Marcus and the MLK Center’s Board of Directors to proactively inform the public, dispel misinformation, and invite the community into an open dialogue about the future of the organization.Honest, reflective, and grounded in service, this episode of NEXT2.0 exemplifies the show’s mission: exploring leadership, community impact, and the real conversations that shape Erie’s future.

As we head into 2026, entrepreneurship is surging—not just because of artificial intelligence, but because of a more profound shift in how people define work, opportunity, and success. While AI continues to dominate headlines, new data suggests that the future of entrepreneurship may be just as human as it is technological.In this episode, we examine ten key entrepreneurial trends shaping 2026 and ask a critical question: Is AI truly leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs—or simply changing the rules? From the growing number of Americans choosing business ownership over traditional employment, to the rise of “blue-collar entrepreneurship” and non-AI-dependent industries, we explore where real opportunity is emerging.Join host Marcus Atkinson and his special guest, Regional Artist and entrepreneur Kenny Base, for a timely conversation about technology, humanity, and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape—where AI may be a powerful tool, but human values remain the true differentiator. Today, On NEXT2.0

Marcus Atkinson sits down with long-time basketball coach, Shannon Pulliam to discuss topics like coaching, mentorship and passing the torch.

Bishop Frankie Quinn and Marcus Atkinson sit down for an end-of-the-year discussion about resolutions, charity and blessings. Bishop Quinn also shares the story of how his church (of Christian faith) acquired a building that recently served as a Jewish synagogue.

Host Chuck Cammarata leads a critical discussion with panelists Tyler Titus, Aaron Cronin, and Raven Cammarata on a recent, controversial public essay by Samantha Fulnecky. The conversation moves beyond initial reactions to analyze the work's fundamental academic shortcomings, its flawed cultural arguments, and its ultimate failure to substantiate its central claims. The panel situates this specific piece as part of a larger, systemic pattern of discourse, examining what such writings reveal about the current landscape of public argument and intellectual rigor. This episode offers a measured, analytical dissection of how ideas gain traction and why robust critical evaluation remains essential.

Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Chuck Cammarata are joined by Pastor Malcolm Beall and Pastor Kendall Hunter of Federated Church for a thoughtful discussion on scriptural fidelity in contemporary Christian practice. The pastors discuss the importance of grounding church teaching and personal faith in the Bible's teachings, cautioning against the trend of importing external meanings or popular online interpretations that diverge from the text. Sharing their own journeys to ministry, Pastor Beall and Pastor Hunter explain their shared dedication to a principled, Bible-centered approach to pastorship. This conversation explores the challenges and necessities of maintaining theological integrity in the modern age.

Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, the discussion honors his profound dedication to Erie. They explore the nature of his legacy, the personal impact of his work, and how his guidance inspired a deeper commitment to community engagement and stronger local leadership. This episode serves as a tribute to a man whose work continues to resonate throughout the city he served.

The hosts of Next 2.0, Marcus Atkinson, Chuck Cammarata, and Marc Blount, convene to analyze the results of the recent local Erie elections. The discussion focuses on the decisive sweep by Democratic nominees, including new County Executive Chair Christina Vogel and Mayoral winner Darya Devlin. The panel examines this significant political shift, considering the emergent trend of women ascending to Erie's highest offices and what this new leadership paradigm represents for the community. They explore the potential departure from a previous era of political style, discussing what this change in leadership tone and focus could mean for the future of the city and county.

Hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by Kathy Dahlkemper, former U.S. Representative and Erie County Executive, for a critical examination of the county's top leadership position. Drawing on her unique experience, Dahlkemper clarifies the core responsibilities of the Executive Chair and discusses how the role is intended to foster collaboration and countywide prosperity. The conversation addresses the integral connection between the health of Erie's urban core and its rural communities, arguing that one cannot thrive without the other. Dahlkemper also offers a detailed endorsement of candidate Christina Vogel, breaking down the qualifications and leadership qualities she believes are necessary to effectively unite and move Erie County forward.