THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH MALIK MAJEED

Welcome to FunTimes Exchange, the podcast where every voice matters. Today we will explore the amazing journey of Malik Majeed, CEO and General Counsel of PRWT Services, one of the largest minority-owned firms in Philadelphia. Malik's journey from a night shift security officer, while in college, to leading a company with contracts with the Supreme Court and the Army Corps of Engineers is a masterclass in tenacity, planning and purpose-driven leadership. 
As we talk, you will learn how he worked his way up the corporate ladder against all odds, how it felt to navigate White spaces as a Black executive and how he wants to open doors for underrepresented communities. You will hear how PRWT collaborates with local academic institutions to build talent pipelines. You will learn that far from competing, they partner with other minority-owned businesses. 
So, whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, corporate professional, or someone who enjoys stories of determination and vision, you will be sure to learn something from Malik, a leader who aims at the sun, and wants to take everyone along for the ride.
Stay with us as we unpack the wisdom of a man who didn't inherit leadership—he earned it, with purpose and precision.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH DR. PAMELA KENNEBREW

Welcome to FunTimes Exchange, the podcast where every voice counts.  
In today we’ll take a deep dive into the conversation Dr. Pamela Kennebrew, and her very interesting journey from wanting to be a physician, to a human services administrator.  We will have a number of fascinating reflections on issues of economic inequality, concerning adult learning, and the lens of Black communities when discussing the subject of menopause.  
Dr. Kennebrew’s life is shaped by her experience of growing up in Newark (New Jersey), having a mother who was in the Black Women's Army Corps and working in a free clinic in DC where her entire career perspective turned around.  She has spent decades researching economic insecurity among older African-American women which gives us a wonderful lens in terms of looking at systemic barriers that persist despite working hard.
So, grab your favourite drink, find a comfy spot, and let's reflect on how structural inequalities shape our society, or the strange paradox that education is both an opportunity and a unending value, and how we should be reframing life changes as a opportunity for wisdom and growth.
This is FunTimes Exchange, where we discuss topics that shape our world! Let's exchange some information, and open some perspectives, and more importantly, grow. 

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH HON. OLIVER ST. CLAIR FRANKLIN

The FunTimes Exchange podcast is pleased to feature an enlightening discussion with the Honorable Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, who served for 28 years as Honorary British Consul in Philadelphia and had a truly remarkable career engaging in diplomacy, business, cultural advocacy, and engagement worldwide. In the episode, we discuss Franklin's multi-dimensional role in international relations, and his unique take on how African diplomats, and their individual roles for their countries, had a substantial impact on the American Civil Rights movement - an important but often under-acknowledged component of Black freedom history.  
Franklin details how the diplomats sought to use their international status to counter segregated laws, thereby creating diplomatic pressure to spur civil rights progress, an aspect largely ignored in scholarship. Franklin also reflects on being a founding member of the National Black Film Festival, his efforts to preserve African-American literature through a donation of material now at Brown University, and the City Fellows Program that provided opportunities for Black professionals to enter the global finance industry.
Franklin shares personal stories, accumulated knowledge, and wisdom from a life of service, to develop a vision of cultural resilience, global action, and strategic thinking that provides meaningful and authoritative evidence and understanding, and useful inspiration.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH REVEREND CAVANESS

Rev. Carolyn Cavaness is making history as the first female pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church, but her mission goes far beyond the title. In this podcast, we explore her remarkable journey, from her deep roots in ministry to her vision for faith-driven community action. Through storytelling and insightful discussion, we unpack how she is bridging history and progress, fostering social change, and redefining leadership in one of Philadelphia’s most historic churches.
Join us as we reflect on her impact, her challenges, and what her leadership means for the future of Mother Bethel AME and beyond.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH JOS DUNCAN

Jos Duncan-Asé believes in the power of storytelling, not just to inform, but to heal, empower, and create change. As the founder and CEO of Love Now Media, she is reshaping the media landscape by centering love, resilience, and justice in journalism.
From her roots in oral storytelling to leading an organization that challenges harmful narratives, Jos’s work focuses on amplifying voices that are often overlooked. She advocates for media as a tool for power and justice, blending traditional storytelling with emerging technology while ensuring that human connection remains at the heart of every story.
This episode explores her journey, the evolution of Love Now Media, and the impact of telling stories that move beyond trauma to inspire action.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH IRV RANDOLPH

In a media landscape often shaped by powerful conglomerates, independent Black journalism stands as a crucial force for truth and representation. This episode explores the remarkable career of Irv Randolph, Managing Editor of The Philadelphia Tribune, the oldest continuously published Black newspaper in the U.S.
With over 30 years of experience, Randolph has dedicated his life to amplifying Black voices, holding power to account, and mentoring the next generation of journalists. From breaking barriers in newsrooms to covering historic moments like Nelson Mandela’s release and Barack Obama’s campaign, his story is one of resilience and purpose.
Join us as we uncover Randolph’s journey, his insights on the evolving role of Black media, and why independent storytelling remains more important than ever.
🎙️ Listen now on

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH DAVID BROWN

In this episode, we honor the incredible path of David W. Brown. An educator, advocate, and leader whose life has been dedicated to truth, justice, and service. From shaping future communicators at Temple University to fighting misinformation, leading gun violence prevention efforts, and championing diversity, Brown’s impact is undeniable.
Through faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others, he reminds us that real leadership is about action, not just words. Join us as we reflect on his story, his lessons, and the legacy he leaves behind.
🎧 Listen now and be inspired by a life lived with purpose.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH VALERIE SMALLWOOD

The 191st Legislative District is facing critical challenges, food insecurity, rising housing struggles, and a surge in EBT fraud leaving families without essential benefits. In this episode, we highlight the work of Valerie Smallwood, a longtime public servant dedicated to fighting for residents in need.
From tackling skimming scams that wipe out food stamp benefits overnight to ensuring families can keep their lights on, Smallwood’s commitment to service is unwavering. We explore how the district office is making a difference hosting food drives, advocating for utility assistance, and spreading awareness about financial aid programs that too often go unclaimed.
At a time when resources feel scarce, leadership that listens matters more than ever. Tune in for a deep dive into the real issues facing the 191st and the team working tirelessly to help.
🎧 Listen now.

THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE WITH HAROLD T EPPS

Harold T. Epps has spent decades driving economic growth, breaking systemic barriers, and advocating for inclusive prosperity. As Philadelphia’s former Director of Commerce and a leader in corporate America, he knows firsthand that hope is not a strategy, action is.
In this episode, Epps challenges us to rethink economic equity, from securing capital for Black-owned businesses to the power of community investment. With major events like America250 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, he lays out what it will take to turn opportunity into lasting change.

Mayor Edward Brown Embraces Leadership Rooted in Service

In 2024, Edward Brown made history as Upper Darby’s first Black mayor. But for him, leadership is about action. In this episode, we dive deep into his journey, from a school volunteer to leading Pennsylvania’s sixth-largest municipality.
Brown shares his vision for economic growth, community empowerment, and breaking barriers in local politics. How does he balance a demanding career in cybersecurity with public service? What drives his relentless work ethic? And how is he turning obstacles into opportunities for a more inclusive Upper Darby?
This is a story of grit and service Tune in.