Three musicians, Hungarian cellist Orsi, Chilean cellist Evelyn and Japanese violinist Chiaki, share their unique perspectives on classical music from Pilsen, Czech Republic. Featuring original interviews and performances with stories and classical music from around the world.
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Yollocalli Arts Reach is the award-winning youth initiative of the National Museum of Mexican Art, we offer FREE arts and culture programming to teens and young adults. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, we serve as an open community center with studio spaces, computer lab, radio production studio, a large art library, and a creative, supportive staff and teaching artists who are always around to help, encourage, and inspire. We aim to strengthen the students’ cre ...
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"From the city of Chicago, a city known for its crime and violence. On this podcast we will be sharing stories of hope & redemption from individuals raised in the tough streets of Chicago. Some were gang members, drug dealers, incarcerated, victims and perpetrators of violence. Listen to my guests as they share their experiences, struggles, trauma but also the strength, hope, faith and perseverance these have developed in them to keep pushing and moving forward in life. Tune in to hear how t ...
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From the neighborhood library of Gwendolyn Brooks, to the Union Stock Yards, where Chicago became Carl Sandburg’s “Hog Butcher for the World,” to the birthplace of slam poetry, the Chicago Poetry Tour explores the city’s history through its dynamic poets and poetry.
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The Lumen Christi Institute for Catholic Thought was founded by Catholic scholars at the University of Chicago in 1997 to bring the light of Christ and the Catholic intellectual and spiritual tradition to the secular academy and the general public. On this station we make available our many lectures and programs, as well as interviews with visiting scholars. To support our work, visit www.lumenchristi.org/donate
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Check out the official song "From Wrong To Strong," a heartfelt gift to the powerful Chicago Ministry led by Brother Omar Calvillo. This song was inspired by the transformative testimony shared by Brother Omar on his Christian podcast, also titled "Wrong To Strong Chicago," where he opens up about his life of crime, incarceration, and the tragic lo…
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In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo welcomes guest Anthony Spaulding, a former gang member who turned his life around after being sentenced to natural life for double murder. Raised in the crime-afflicted streets of Chicago, the "Wild Hundreds", Anthony shares his transformation from a life of violence and incarceration…
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⚡Wattz Up! Special: Our Shared Future⚡In conjunction with the Smithsonian’s initiative “Our Shared Futures: Reckoning With Our Racial Past”, Wattz Up!’s Ariandy Luna and August Abitang engage with voices of the museum industry to learn how some Chicago museums address the history of racism and segregation and seek to change the future through stren…
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This episodes feature James L. Capra, former D.E.A. Chief of Global Operations. A veteran of law enforcement and military service, discussing his life journey from overcoming crime and violence to becoming a CEO. Capra highlights the profound influence of his father, faith, and supportive wife in shaping his career and personal growth. The narrativ…
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This podcast episode hosted by Omar Calvillo features Ricky Irby, who shares his transformative journey from growing up in Waukegan, Illinois to experiencing wrongful conviction and eventual redemption. Convicted for the death of his child due to a mishap with tainted formula, Ricky served 35 years of an 80-year sentence. Despite his wrongful incar…
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In this compelling episode host Omar Calvillo introduces Dionne Garcia, who narrates her journey from growing up amidst gang violence in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood in the 80's & 90's, to her eventual redemption years later. Dionne details her early involvement in gangs, teenage pregnancy, significant role in drug dealing, and dramatic arrest by …
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW! This is the first interview that David Ayala and Jimmy Soto have done together since they were exonerated and released from prison back in December of 2023. They share their experiences with wrongful imprisonment, personal growth, and the transformation they have undergone since their release. They reflect on the importance of …
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🌟WATTZ UP!: NOT IN SERVICE🌟 DNC SPECIALWattz Up! Reporters Ariandy Luna and August Abitang took to the streets to cover the 2024 Democratic National Convention as well as some of the protests surrounding it. Tune in to hear their day by day coverage and thoughts on a hectic week in Chicago.Wattz Up! Not In Service aired Saturday, August 24th from 1…
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On December 14, 2023 Jimmy Soto and his cousin David Ayala were released from Stateville Correctional Center after a forty-two-year-long fight to prove their innocence. At the time of his release, Soto was the longest-serving wrongfully convicted prisoner in Illinois history. A Cook County judge vacated Soto’s sentence, stating that neither he nor …
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Celebrate the Summer with Wattz Up! on our season finale at the 2024 Yollocalli Summer Exhibition taking place in the one and only @malinalligarden . Hear from Yollocalli program instructors and participants about all the amazing art and work they created throughout the summer! We will have guests like the Yollocalli Youth Council, Yollo Lab, Camer…
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⭐️ Wattz Up! Season 26 ⭐️ Episode 3: Pitchfork Music Festival Recap 🎤 🎶The Wattz Up! crew left the radio station and headed to Union Park and explored everything Pitchfork Music Festival (@pitchforkfest) had to offer this year! Rap, country, pop, and so many other genres combined together to form a unique experience! 🪩Join Fernanda on a caffeine-fu…
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This podcast episode shares the powerful stories of Mark Corbett and Steve Watt. Mark and Steve recount their journey from a tragic shooting during a bank robbery attempt to an extraordinary tale of forgiveness and redemption. Mark who was deep in debt and seeing no way out decides to rob a bank one day. The call goes out and Steve, who is a highwa…
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⭐️ Wattz Up! Season 26 ⭐️ Episode 2: People of Pilsen🎙️Join the Wattz Up! crew in a walk around Pilsen! In this episode, we had the opportunity to talk to Pilsen’s very own BIPOC local businesses and dive into their community history. From conversations of identity and gentrification to thrifting treasures and some warm cafecito- we cover everythin…
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⭐️ Wattz Up! Season 26 ⭐️ Episode 1: This is fine: Beginners Guide to Voting!!! 🗳️Are you a first time voter? A seasoned voter that wants to know more about this upcoming election? Or are you generally lost? Well, don’t worry! Tune in this week as the WattzUp! Team tackles everything about voting!!!Listen in as we go over the history of voting and …
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In this podcast, Omar Calvillo from Chicago hosts Anthony Consiglio, Senior Director of Operations for 'God Behind Bars,' an organization dedicated to introducing inmates to Jesus and connecting them to the local church. Anthony shares his personal journey from a promising baseball career that was derailed due to injury, leading to a period of subs…
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In this compelling podcast, host Omar Calvillo interviews Pastor Daniel Rivera, who narrates his profound journey from gang involvement in Chicago and Gary, Indiana, to redemption and ministry. After a tragic incident leading to incarceration, Rivera encountered faith in Christ through a fellow inmate, which became the turning point in his life. At…
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Join host Omar Calvillo in this inspiring podcast episode featuring Louis Dooley. Once entrenched in the hardships of drug dealing, crime and violence, Louis shares his incredible life transformation through faith and perseverance. As a young man he gets arrested and sentenced to life in prison plus a hundred years. Right when he feels that his lif…
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"For I Know The Plans I Have For You" - Jacob Ekelman's Journey from Darkness to Deacons M.C.
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In this podcast episode Jacob Ekelman from Phoenix, Arizona, shares his remarkable journey from a life of addiction and rebellion to redemption through faith. Raised in a Mormon household, Jacob's struggles led him to getting locked up, to a rehab center, playing bass in a various rock bands, then a HIV diagnosis triggered a profound spiritual awak…
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In this episode of the 'Wrong to Strong Chicago' podcast, guest Pastor Frank Robles joins from Phoenix, Arizona, to share his journey from the gang-infested streets of South Phoenix to founding a successful men's discipleship program. Pastor Robles discusses his upbringing in a tough neighborhood, his early church involvement, and his descent into …
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Wattz Up! Season 25 concludes today with a very special episode on Chicago’s lesser known wonders! Our main course is an investigative report on the fabled birthplace of all street signs in Chicago: the CDOT Sign Management Department! We’v…
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This interview chronicles the life of Maurice 'Kojak' Fuller, a former high school basketball star from Anderson, Indiana. Kojak opens up about his upbringing in a close-knit community and the challenges of growing up without a stable father figure, which led him to seek solace in basketball. Despite his talent, he veered into a life of drugs and c…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Tune in to the Wattz Up! Team’s visit to the Museum of Science and Industry (@msichicago) as we talk to museum staff and guests alike, learn about what it’s like to work at MSI, and hear about the world’s ongoing plastic pollution crisis th…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Join us this week on Wattz Up! as we learn more about the Chicago Gang database and how it affected black and brown communities here in Chicago and explore the street art scene: its culture and new projects from the next generation in Littl…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Do you like superheroes? Cosplay? Video games? Kpop? Horror? Well, you’re in luck! Join us this week on Wattz Up! as the team recounts their time at C2E2 2024!!! On this episode you’ll hear all about the different panels, cosplays, meet-ups…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Are you embarazada because you don’t know how to speak Spanish? Well, don’t be embarrassed because this Saturday, Wattz Up! is dedicating this episode to those who might feel or have been told they’re a ‘no sabo.’ Listen in as we learn abou…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.We hope you’re doing lovely! This Saturday, our Wattz Up! crew dedicates this episode to you. So sit back, 'cause we're here to serve you all the flavors of the rainbow. We've interviewed Home Kitchens (@welcomehomekitchens), a mutual aid o…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.On the second episode of Wattz Up! Season 25, the Wattz Up! Crew sets out to learn and educate about the history and occupation of Palestine, celebrate Palestinian food, art, and culture, and discuss the importance of liberation movements h…
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In an insightful interview Jeff Zaugg, founder of the "Dad Awesome" podcast, discusses the importance of intentional fatherhood and his mission to inspire fathers to lead their families with intentionality and joy. Drawing from over 329 interviews and his own upbringing, Jeff shares practical advice on balancing family life and pursuing new experie…
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La Mesita is a feature series of live performances and interviews from Wattz Up! produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth, broadcast live through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Wattz Up! Is BACK for Season 25!!! To kick it off, we got a special La Mesita show featuring the one and only @momamimusic , discussing her inspirations, studying law, an…
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La Mesita is a feature series of live performances and interviews from Wattz Up! produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth, broadcast live through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.This week, the Sonic Vibes crew takes over the airwaves with a new season of La Mesita! Presenting a special conversation and performance with producer and DJ @princeofqu…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.For the Season 24 Finale, The Wattz Up! Crew dives head fur-st into the world of Furries to learn more about how the fandom and community began. Listen in to hear some amazing interviews and interactions with lovely members of the community…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.The Wattz Up! Radio crew wishes you the happiest of holidays! On the last day of our season, we put together a special gift for you! Come listen to a special assortment of audio from the YSYW and Sonic Vibez Crews: with short story read-a-l…
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Erik Saldaña recounts his upbringing in Chicago, his parents' separation, and the positive influences that steered him away from gangs. Initially focused on sports, Erik later pursued a career in law enforcement and joined the Chicago Police Department. Encountering many challenges along the way, Erik turned to faith and began understanding Christi…
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From the city of Chicago, a city most recently known for its crime and violence. On this podcast we will be sharing stories of redemption from individuals raised in the tough streets of Chicago and from around the country. Some of them were gang members, drug dealers, incarcerated; victims of and perpetrators of violence. Listen to my guests as the…
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On this podcast interview I am joined by Harry Peña, founder of "Life Impacters Foundation. (LIF)" He is also a partner of the Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishments. It was created as an organizing and campaign hub for people directly impacted by the criminal legal system to come together, build a movement, and lead and implement advocacy…
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On April 26th, 2024 JC Almanza & I stepped foot back into East Moline Correctional Center here in Illinois. We met there back in 1999, twenty five years earlier as young men steeped deep into darkness with criminal mindsets. Listen to this podcast as I share all the events that lined up and led to us having this opportunity to go back and share our…
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On this podcast interview we take the show on the road to Gary, Indiana and record an interview with Mike Petrovic at "Restoration House Ministries." This is a compelling narrative of transformation and redemption through faith. He shares his harrowing journey from a life steeped in crime and addiction to finding purpose, love, and redemption throu…
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Luis Varela had a 31 year career as a Chicago Police Officer. He also served a total off 33 years between the Marines and Army Reserves were he served as a drill instructor. He grew up in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago. He grew up in an era of the late sixties and early seventy's were there was a greater racial divide within the communities …
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Dungeons and Dragons has a long history, a rich lore, and many rules to learn. Nowadays, this game is more popular than ever! But what’s all the hubbub? Join us novice adventurers as we explore the wonderful universe of 5th Edition D&D and …
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Joshuah Hernandez is currently scheduled for a boxing match on Saturday April 13th, 2024 at the Dome in Rosemont, IL. He has been boxing since the age of 5 years old. His dad was a professional boxer as well. Like many of us, his childhood had some rough patches along the way. Some of those things shaped him and molded him into the young man he is …
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On today's podcast episode I am joined by Cisco Terrazas, Julio Mercado & Arturo Gamino. This is our first time doing a four person podcast interview. This interview starts off a little slow but once we get warmed up you get to hear these men's hearts and the conversation just flows. Today discuss the importance & power of sharing your testimony ac…
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"This will be your last time!" is the statement Bert hears spoken in his mind on the day he ends up committing a crime that will eventually land him behind bars with a 40 year sentence. Bert grew up in the Humboldt Park neighborhood on the North side of Chicago. He grew up in a loving home, with mom and dad in the picture. One day he sees his older…
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This is an exclusive podcast interview with Chicago's very own David Ayala. David, along with his cousin Jimmy Soto, were recently exonerated after serving over 42 years in prison for a crime they didn't commit. They made history by becoming Illinois longest serving prison inmates to be then exonerated. You will hear how I met David just last week …
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Today we do our first ever “on the road” in person podcast interview. Thanks to a generous donation from a co-worker of mine, I was able to purchase equipment to make this podcast possible. I traveled to Wheaton, Illinois to meet with Pastor Manny Mill from “Koinonia House National Ministries” at his home. Pastor Manny’s life begins back in Cuba wh…
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In this podcast episode Rob Decker joins me all the way from Colorado Springs, Colorado. After years of abuse, addiction, a desperate search for praise and approval, and living in unbearable pain and isolation, Rob Decker reached a breaking point that drove him to take drastic measures. After a failed sui--de attempt and a friend not giving up on h…
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Wattz up! is produced by Yollocalli Arts Reach youth and broadcast through Lumpen Radio, WLPN 105.5FM Chicago.Have you heard of Stop Cop City? Listen in as we educate ourselves on all the impacts the proposed $90 million police training facility has on the Weelaunee Forest and communities across Atlanta… Cop City aims to militarize the Atlanta Poli…
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Happy New Year 2024! This is our first podcast episode release of this new year. God bless you and your families, thank you very much for the continual support. On this episode you will hear the first ever guest host on the Wrong To Strong Chicago Podcast. Julio Mercado steps into the studio to interview REZUM, a multi genre Christian artist. Liste…
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On October 26th, 2004 I had an encounter with God that changed my life forever. That day started me on a journey that ultimately leads to why it is I'm hosting this podcast today. My life went from darkness to light and from death to life. This is my story. I had initially released this podcast interview a year ago in two parts. The episodes titled…
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There comes a time in one's life when God uses someone to speak into your life, encourage you, especially at a time when no one else does. Hassan Anderson played such a role in the life of JC Almanza, who is the founder of "Wrong To Strong." According to JC, Hassan was the first person to ever believe in his dream and in his vision. Interestingly e…
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This podcast episode was recorded on wife's podcast called "Her Scars Tell A Story." If you haven't done so yet please go take a listen to it. She wanted to record a special Thanksgiving episode, so I joined her as a guest to discuss the importance of living a life full of gratitude and thankfulness. We talk about being thankful to God for who He i…
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