The Kojo Nnamdi Show

Saying Goodbye To The Kojo Nnamdi Show Apr 01, 2021

On this last episode, we look back on 23 years of joyous, difficult and always informative conversation.

Author Briana Thomas On ‘Black Broadway In Washington D.C.’ And The History Of D.C.’s Black Culture Mar 31, 2021

Kojo talks with author Briana Thomas about her book “Black Broadway In Washington D.C.,” and the District’s rich Black history.

Kevin Young Takes The Helm Of Smithsonian African American Museum Mar 31, 2021

Poet, essayist and editor Kevin Young is the second director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. He joins Kojo to talk about his vision for the museum and how it can help us make sense of this moment in history.

A Conversation With PBS NewsHour’s Judy Woodruff Mar 30, 2021

Ms. Woodruff joins us to talk about her successful career in broadcasting, how the field of journalism has changed over the decades and why she chose to make D.C. home.

Digging Into Maryland’s Past Mar 30, 2021

After almost 90 years of searching, archeologists have uncovered St. Mary's fort, the founding site of the Maryland colony.

Kojo For Kids: WNBA Superstar Elena Delle Donne Mar 29, 2021

She led the Mystics to 2019 WNBA championship. Hear why she says, "life is more than a game."

Dr. Leana Wen On The Light At The End Of This Pandemic Tunnel Mar 29, 2021

In times of uncertainty, we look to medical professionals for guidance. Emergency physician and public health expert Dr. Leana Wen joins us — one last time — to share her expertise and answer your essential questions.

The Politics Hour: March 26, 2021 Mar 26, 2021

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) recaps this week's H.R. 51 hearing and tells us what's next for statehood. And Maryland State Sen. Clarence Lam (D-District 12) talks about the state's vaccine rollout and previews the last two weeks of the legislative session.

Is It Time To Reinvent The Federal Government Again? Mar 25, 2021

The pandemic has changed how the federal government operates, but should those changes remain?

Lonnie Bunch: The Smithsonian At 175 Mar 24, 2021

The leader of the largest museum complex in the world shares his thoughts on the institution's past, present and future.

Local High School Students On Their Pandemic Year Mar 23, 2021

Many students have been out of the classroom for more than a year. Kojo talks with local high school students and WAMU education reporter Debbie Truong about what a year of COVID-19 has meant for them.

Kojo For Kids: Actor and Singer Eleasha Gamble Mar 22, 2021

A kid from Takoma Park decided she wanted to shine on the big stage when she grew up. Here's how she made it.

Combatting Acts Of Violence And Racism Against Asian Americans Mar 22, 2021

How is the local Asian American community coping in the wake of the tragedy in Georgia? And what can be done to counter racist attacks in Washington and across the country?

The Politics Hour: March 19, 2021 Mar 19, 2021

Indivisible's Director of Democracy Policy Meagan Hatcher-Mays tells us why the national organization is making D.C. statehood a priority. And Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) talks about the county's vaccine rollout, loosening COVID-19 restrictions and more.

Reviving The Restaurant Scene After A Pandemic With Chef José Andrés Mar 18, 2021

Special guest José Andrés joins Kojo for a conversation about what this pandemic year has meant to D.C.'s food scene, and what recovery could look like in our region.

The Year Of COVID And How It Changed Our Lives Forever Mar 17, 2021

We look back at the tumultuous, trying and unprecedented times of the past year.

Did You Hear The Buzz? Cicadas Are Coming Back Mar 16, 2021

It's been 17 years since Brood X cicadas emerged en masse in the D.C. region. University of Maryland's Michael Raupp, aka The Bug Guy, tells us what to expect.

In Full Bloom: The Significance Of Cherry Blossoms In The District Mar 16, 2021

With the Cherry Blossoms beginning to bloom, we’re discussing how the flower took root in the District, and its significance in Japanese culture.

Kojo For Kids: Graphic Novelist Judd Winick Mar 15, 2021

WHOMP! BONK! VRROOOM! Let's talk about comics.

Discussing Amazon HQ2’s Impact On Arlington And The Region Mar 15, 2021

Amazon HQ2 development is underway. What can locals expect as progress continues?

The Politics Hour: March 12, 2021 Mar 12, 2021

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA, 10th District) talks about the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package. And Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro (D-District 4) talks about vaccine equity.

On Exhibit: Museums One Year After The Pandemic Mar 11, 2021

Museums in the District are transferring many of their exhibits and programs online, and it seems to be more accessible for everyone.

Ta-Nehisi Coates: Reflections On Recent History Mar 10, 2021

Award-winning writer Ta-Nehisi Coates joins us to discuss this moment in history, his Washington roots and what's next for Superman.

When Your Hobby Becomes Your Side-Hustle Mar 09, 2021

Kojo sits down with three Washingtonians to talk about making a side-business out of their passions, and the joys and challenges of working for yourself.

CNN’s Abby Phillip On Her Maryland Roots And Her Rise To The Anchor Desk Mar 09, 2021

Kojo talks with the Bowie native about growing up in the region, her rise at CNN and everything in between.

Kojo For Kids: Composer and Conductor Rob Kapilow Mar 08, 2021

What makes a great song great?

Poet Safia Elhillo On D.C.’s Diasporic Communities And “Home Is Not A Country” Mar 08, 2021

Poet Safia Elhillo joins us to discuss her first young adult novel, "Home is Not a Country."

The Politics Hour: March 5, 2021 Mar 05, 2021

Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman (D) talks about the county's vaccine rollout and making the tax code more progressive. And D.C. Councilmember Vincent Gray (D-Ward 7) talks about disparities in the District's vaccinations and how the pandemic has affected plans to bring a hospital east of the Anacostia River.

Staging The Recovery: Live Events A Year Into The Pandemic Mar 04, 2021

For almost a year, many local theaters and music venues have been entirely shutdown. How are they coping, and could the $15 billion federal aid set aside for the arts be enough to "Save Our Stages?"

George Pelecanos: Writing From Home Mar 03, 2021

The D.C. crime writer talks about his latest projects and other local authors you may want to discover.

Community Organizers Respond To A Spike In D.C.’s Gun Violence Mar 03, 2021

Gun homicides reached a 15-year peak in 2020. How are D.C.'s communities responding to the violence?

“I Came As A Shadow” And The Defining Legacy Of Coach John Thompson Mar 02, 2021

Jesse Washington, who co-authored "I Came as a Shadow" with John Thompson, joins us to discuss the life and legacy of the Hall of Fame Georgetown University basketball coach.

Kojo For Kids: Author Hena Khan Mar 01, 2021

Discover books about Muslim American kids that will resonate with every kid.

In The Weeds: Virginia Becomes The 16th State To Legalize Marijuana Mar 01, 2021

The Virginia legislature passed a marijuana legalization bill Saturday, joining 15 other states and the District of Columbia.

The Politics Hour: February 26, 2021 Feb 26, 2021

At-Large D.C. Councilmember Robert White talks about bias in the way D.C. police respond to protests. And Virginia State Sen. Scott Surovell (D-District 36) talks about abolishing the death penalty and his other priorities this legislative session.

The Struggle For Vaccine Equity Feb 25, 2021

Black and brown communities in our region and nationwide have been hardest hit by the coronavirus. Now, these same communities are facing low vaccination rates for COVID-19.

The Story Of D.C.’s Secret Covid Morgue Feb 25, 2021

Even the clergy who blessed it were not supposed to talk about it.

The Cost Of Delaying Medical Care During A Pandemic Feb 24, 2021

About 1 in 5 American households missed needed medical care during the pandemic. We discuss the health crisis unfolding in the shadow of COVID-19.

Marty Baron On The Post, Retirement And The Future Of Journalism Feb 23, 2021

Kojo sits down with Washington Post executive editor Marty Baron to talk about his retirement, how the paper changed under his tenure and the future of journalism.

Will Baltimore Regain Local Control Of Its Police Department? Feb 23, 2021

After more than a century, Baltimore is on the verge of controlling its police department again.

Kojo For Kids: Soccer Star Abby Wambach Feb 22, 2021

What are your questions for one of the game's most dominant players?

Has Gentrification Actually Slowed In D.C.? Feb 22, 2021

A study suggests that D.C. is no longer the "most intensely gentrified city" in the U.S., but some are skeptical about the new ranking.

The Politics Hour: February 19, 2021 Feb 19, 2021

Fairfax County Board Chair Jeff McKay talks about the coronavirus vaccine rollout. And Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) discusses the Senate impeachment trial.

Can Local Leaders Address Systemic Racism? Feb 18, 2021

What can local lawmakers and community leaders do to address structural racism in our communities and in the region?

Is A “Homeless Pandemic” Looming? Feb 17, 2021

Hear how people who are experiencing homelessness are faring during these unprecedented times, and learn about ways you can help the shelters that are their lifeline.

“Through The Cracks” Investigates The Disappearance Of Relisha Rudd Feb 16, 2021

Eight-year-old Relisha Rudd disappeared from a D.C. homeless shelter in 2014. In WAMU's podcast "Through the Cracks," host Jonquilyn Hill explores what happened to Relisha, and whether her disappearance was, as the city later claimed, "unpreventable."

Georgetown Could Be Home To An African American Burial Ground Feb 16, 2021

Researchers and residents have been unearthing human remains on a block in Georgetown for the last century. DCist's Elliot Williams joins us to talk about his latest reporting on the issue.

Kojo For Kids: Civil Rights Icon Ruby Bridges Feb 15, 2021

At six, she became the young face of the Civil Rights Era.

This Presidents Day, Learning Lessons From Our Founding Fathers Feb 15, 2021

How can the political divisiveness our Founding Fathers faced help us understand today's challenges?

What’s So Funny? Humor And Local Politics Feb 09, 2021

Meet us at the intersection of politics and comedy. We talk with Eric Saul, the creator of local satire site The Takoma Torch, and Josh Gibson, the man behind the D.C. Council's wry Twitter account.

The Latest On Amazon’s HQ2 Feb 09, 2021

We're checking in on Amazon's HQ2 project and discussing the company's plan for a "Helix" tower.

Kojo For Kids: Dr. Leana Wen Feb 08, 2021

She's taking kids' questions about the coronavirus, vaccines and staying safe.

Ending The Pandemic Nightmare Feb 08, 2021

Emergency physician and public health expert Dr. Leana Wen says one result of the vaccine has received little attention, and it could mean the end of our pandemic nightmare.

The Politics Hour: February 5, 2021 Feb 05, 2021

Arlington County Board Chair Matt de Ferranti gives us the latest on Arlington's vaccine distribution. And D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson talks about COVID-19, gun violence prevention and more.

Kojo Connects: Teaching Black History Feb 04, 2021

The Kojo Connects series on race and social justice begins with a conversation about American education, and the importance of learning Black history.

Moving Along: Maryland’s Upcoming Transportation Projects Feb 03, 2021

Two big transportation projects are on the table in Maryland. But is now the best time?

What Is A “Queen’s Gambit” Anyway? Feb 02, 2021

We talk about the hit TV series, "The Queen's Gambit" with 2019's U.S. Women's Champion.

The Muslim Ban Is Gone. What’s Next For Local Families? Feb 02, 2021

What damage has been done and how soon can it be repaired?

Kojo For Kids: Author Shani Mahiri King Feb 01, 2021

The author of "Have I Ever Told You Black Lives Matter?" explains why kids of all races need a book like this.

An Update On Vaccine Distribution In The DMV Feb 01, 2021

What's working with the vaccine rollout in our area and what needs to be improved?

The Politics Hour: January 29, 2021 Jan 29, 2021

Washington Post Congressional Reporter Mike DeBonis gives us the latest on the impeachment trial. And Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich talks about the vaccine rollout, the Capitol Beltway expansion and more.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Jan 28, 2021

Many in the D.C. region have been relying on neighbors and volunteers to help them through these difficult, pandemic times.

Is It Safe To Reopen Schools? Jan 27, 2021

Officials across the region are pushing for public schools to reopen as early as March. And the District plans to bring some students and teachers back for in-person instruction starting next week. We speak with D.C. Schools Chancellor Lewis Ferebee about what safety protocols are in place.

At The Intersection Of Poetry And Politics Jan 26, 2021

Following Amanda Gorman's show-stopping inaugural poem, Kojo sits down with E. Ethelbert Miller and Marjan Naderi to talk about poetry and activism.

What President Biden’s Recent Executive Orders Mean For LGBTQ Locals Jan 26, 2021

Last week, President Biden issued an executive order giving LGBTQ people nationwide protections from discrimination.

Kojo For Kids: Officer Ana Hester Jan 25, 2021

Ever wonder what a day in the life of a police officer is like? We talk to Montgomery County Police Officer Ana Hester.

Checking In On Local Community Colleges Jan 25, 2021

How are local community colleges facing a decrease in enrollment numbers?

The Politics Hour: January 22, 2021 Jan 22, 2021

Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD) discusses reforming voting laws and getting big money out of politics, both goals of his For the People Act. And Virginia Governor Ralph Northam talks with us about abolishing the death penalty.

Here Comes The Help: Evaluating Local And National Coronavirus Relief Proposals Jan 21, 2021

Pandemic relief may be coming to Maryland, and to the nation. What do the plans look like?

Why Has The Recession Disproportionately Affected Women And People Of Color? Jan 21, 2021

The D.C. economy is typically unfazed by recessions, but not this time. We'll find out why.

Your Turn: Inauguration, Insurrection And Extremism In Washington Jan 19, 2021

The inauguration of President Joe Biden will happen under military lockdown amid a pandemic. The Washington Post's Marc Fisher joins us to discuss this extraordinary moment in our country's history. Plus, computer scientist Jen Golbeck on what's most worrisome about the chatter happening in the darkest corners of the web.

Kojo For Kids: Illustrator And Author Brian Pinkney Jan 18, 2021

For Martin Luther King Day, we hear from an artist who makes civil rights heroes leap off the page.

Commemorating MLK Day Amid Ongoing Racial Injustice Jan 18, 2021

Rev. Dr. Yolanda Pierce, Dean of Howard University Divinity School, joins us to discuss Dr. King's legacy.

The Politics Hour: January 15, 2021 Jan 15, 2021

We get a preview of the legislative sessions in Maryland and Virginia. And we hear from D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine about last week's insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

No Job, No Rent. Right? Jan 14, 2021

The federal eviction moratorium has been extended through January, but what happens on February 1?

What You Need To Know About Enrolling In Local Health Plans Jan 12, 2021

The enrollment period for some health plans is ending soon in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. We talk about the options.

Is D.C. Statehood A Possibility in 2021? Jan 12, 2021

After the runoff elections in Georgia, statehood seems closer than ever.

Kojo For Kids: Graphic Novelist Raina Telgemeier Jan 11, 2021

She turns the rough patches of childhood into gripping graphic novels.

The Deadliest Day Of The Pandemic Jan 11, 2021

The day after insurrectionists stormed the Capitol, the United States recorded the highest number of COVID-19 fatalities in a single day since the pandemic started.

The Politics Hour: January 8, 2021 Jan 08, 2021

D.C. Police Chief Robert J. Contee III talks about the police response to this week's insurrection in the U.S. Capitol. And Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) talks about what it was like on the inside — and Trump's final days in office.

Pro-Trump Insurrectionists Cause Chaos At The Capitol Jan 07, 2021

Thousands of insurrectionists entered the District for a pro-Trump rally and broke into the Capitol building.

Addressing Racial Bias In The Medical Community During The Pandemic Jan 06, 2021

Black Americans still don’t trust the healthcare system. How can physicians overcome a history of racial bias and regain trust?

What’s Happening At Today’s Pro-Trump Demonstrations? Jan 06, 2021

Right-wing groups, including the Proud Boys, are taking to D.C. streets to falsely claim that President Trump was reelected. District officials are worried that they'll incite violence.

Do D.C.’s Poorest Neighborhoods Still Have Fewer Trees? Jan 05, 2021

D.C. was once referred to as "The City Of Trees." When did it lose that moniker?

Kojo For Kids: Ballerina Ashley Murphy-Wilson Jan 04, 2021

She leapt from Louisiana to New York to Washington, where she's now one of The Washington Ballet's brightest stars.

Keeping New Year’s Resolutions As We Say Hello To 2021 Jan 04, 2021

Will New Year’s resolutions take on a new meaning because of the pandemic?

How To Support Local Businesses Through The Holidays And Beyond Dec 23, 2020

Learn ways to help your local businesses survive the pandemic recession.

Food Traditions During A Stay-Home Holiday Dec 23, 2020

What does this holiday season look like without the traditional meals?

An Inside Scoop: Reading, Writing And Journalism For People In The D.C. Jail Dec 22, 2020

We hear from people incarcerated in the D.C. Jail who have turned to books and writing during the pandemic. And our guests answer their questions on writing and journalism.

How The D.C. Jail Is Handling The Pandemic Dec 22, 2020

What has the D.C. Department of Corrections done to curb COVID-19 cases, and how has it shifted its educational programming to be virtual?

Kojo For Kids: Author Gregory Mone Dec 21, 2020

If you like robots, space and wild adventures above and below the sea, we've got just the writer for you.

All The Presidents’ Pets Dec 21, 2020

There hasn't been a pet in the White House since the Obama's dog Bo, so get ready for the Biden's dogs Major and Champ (and maybe a cat too).

The Politics Hour: December 18, 2020 Dec 18, 2020

D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen talks about the Second Look Act and other bills approved by the council. And Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando discusses the jurisdiction's latest COVID-19 restrictions.

How Prince George’s County Is Adapting To A Growing Number of Unaccompanied Children Dec 17, 2020

Schools in the county are changing curriculums to ensure immigrant students are welcomed and supported.

Rev. William Lamar Talks About White Supremacy, The Black Church And Civil Rights Dec 17, 2020

We discuss the violence from a Proud Boys protest in D.C. at a historic Black church, and the Black church’s role in Civil Rights.

How Local Choirs Are Singing Safely Together This Holiday Season Dec 16, 2020

Group singing means something very different in 2020. We hear from The Washington Chorus and The Children of the Gospel Choir on how they've adapted both performance and practice to virtual and physically distant settings — and how they're finding joy this holiday season, in spite of it all.

Cash And COVID-19: Managing Your Money During A Pandemic Dec 15, 2020

How to be smart when spending, saving and giving to charity.

Kojo For Kids: Meteorologist Chester Lampkin Dec 14, 2020

From thunder claps to lightening strikes -- it's the weather. Explained.

What To Expect When You Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine Dec 14, 2020

Millions of Americans could receive the vaccine by the end of this month. What will that mean, and when might things return to normal? Public health expert Dr. Leana Wen joins us to discuss the latest news and answer your coronavirus questions.

The Politics Hour: December 11, 2020 Dec 11, 2020

We hear from WAMU reporter Daniella Cheslow about all the latest news from the Virginia governor’s race. Then, we're talking to D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine about the DoorDash settlement, police reform and more.

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