New Scope / Same Vision: WBFO’s “What’s Next?” Returns
This September, WBFO’s award-winning program, launched in the aftermath of the May 14 mass shooting, returns to the airwaves with new episodes and a broader scope, The show, now called “What’s Next?,” has won praise for providing a forum for open, honest, and candid conversations about tough and long-lasting issues in our community, and it will continue to do that.
But in addition to covering Buffalo, the program will examine those issues in communities across Western New York and Southern Ontario. Plus, it will expand its scope to celebrate our diverse culture, success stories, and ask the question, “What’s Next?”
"While on hiatus, our team has been working diligently to re-imagine thought-provoking content that challenges the status quo and sparks meaningful discussions,” said Brigid Jaipaul-Valenza, managing editor of WBFO and executive producer of “What’s Next?” “We believe that by addressing the pressing issues in our communities, we can inspire positive change, educate, amplify marginalized voices, and create a more inclusive Western New York and Southern Ontario.”
“Together, let's discover what's next for our communities.”
“What’s Next?” is broadcast Monday through Friday, 10 am to 11 am, and again on weekdays at 9 pm as well as Sundays at 6 pm on WBFO. It is also available digitally through WBFO’s website, apps, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.
Listeners can participate by using the “Talk to Us” feature in the WBFO mobile app, available on Apple and Android devices. Open the app and scroll to the bottom bar where the “Talk to Us” button allows listeners to send audio recordings straight to the newsroom. You can also reach the production staff by emailing WhatsNext@wbfo.org.
Upcoming Episodes of What’s Next?
- An interview with “Alberto”, one of the Nicaraguan Immigrants bused over to Western New York in June.
- Dr. Keith Burich – Professor Emeritus at Canisius University and author of “We Remain: Race, Racism and the Story of the American Indian.”
- Dr. Andrew Hyland, Chair, Department of Health Behavior at Roswell Park and Director of the New York State Smokers’ Quitline + Herman, one of the participants in the program.
- Dame Powell – Bag and Leatherwork Designer participating in the Fashion’s Initial Garment [FIG] Fashion Show on Sept. 30.
- An auditory tour of the Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve with Environmental Educator and Black Birder, Marcus Rosten.
- A walkthrough tour of The Exchange at Beverly Gray – an entrepreneur service center for the BIPOC and underrepresented entrepreneurial community on the East Side of Buffalo. Includes a conversation with Executive Director, Derrick Parson, and a collection of brief interviews with vendors and business owners at their Black Business Month Block Party.
- Stephanie Speaker, advocate for disabled commuters attempting to expand Paratransit transportation routes through NFTA. // (LIVE) Shara Armprester, Career Coach Supervisor at Say Yes Buffalo and author of “Natural Beauty Cuties” (black and brown girls and women self-care).
- Mia Kai Simmone Moody, former Buffalonian now working in Los Angeles as a Producer’s Assistant and Production Coordinator on Fox’s “Family Guy.”
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About Buffalo Toronto Public Media
Buffalo Toronto Public Media engages with our communities through exploration and entertainment –everywhere. Our member-supported services include WNED PBS, WBFO (NPR) (88.7 in Buffalo, 91.3 in Olean, 88.1 in Jamestown), WNED Classical (94.5 in Buffalo, 89.7 WNJA in Jamestown), WBFO The Bridge (88.7 HD2 and 94.5 HD2 in Buffalo), WNED Create, and WNED PBS KIDS. WNED PBS is also a national producer of award-winning documentaries. Additional information about Buffalo Toronto Public Media can be found at wned.org.