About Inspiration for the Nation

This program celebrates the positive achievements of African-Americans from all walks of life. Host George Kilpatrick brings you some of the country’s most inspiring conversations, in a fun, accessible style. Guests range from leaders and celebrities, to authors, artists, entrepreneurs, teachers and everyday people who are acting on their vision for making their lives and their communities better. The show reveals the texture and diversity within African-American communities through his guests. George has the gift of getting people to speak the truth of their experiences, and we are all made better by hearing their stories.

Alex Bugnon & Jeff Kashiwa Headline Jazz in the City

Looking for plans Thursday night?

This week’s CNY Jazz in the City Series heads to Schiller Park for an evening of live jazz, community resources and family fun. Two nationally acclaimed jazz musicians take the stage together in Syracuse for the first time.

Larry Luttinger shares everything you need to know before heading out, including where to park and why this neighborhood stop is so important.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

The Power of Scholarship: A 50-Year Legacy

For 50 years, the Syracuse Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has invested in the future through education, awarding more than 275 scholarships and creating opportunities for generations of students.

Vicki Brackens is joined by leaders of the Syracuse Alumnae Chapter to celebrate the legacy of May Week and its lasting impact, and the importance of investing in the future and higher education.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

Shaffer: Turning Stone’s Biggest Expansion Yet!

The next chapter of the Turning Stone Evolution is here!

George Kilpatrick sits down with Kathleen Shaffer to discuss what’s ahead for Turning Stone Enterprises, including the opening of the Crescent Hotel, SALT restaurant, and the Grand Expo.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

A Conversation with Maurice Brown

Maurice ‘Mo’ Brown claims victory!

As the race for New York’s 129th Assembly District continues to unfold, Brown joins George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation to discuss his campaign, progressive priorities, the debate over data centers, and the issues he says matter most to Central New York voters.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

Malfitano: Syracuse Jazz Fest at 40!

40 years of world-class music. 4 decades of community. 1 unforgettable celebration.

George Kilpatrick welcomes Syracuse International Jazz Fest executive director, Frank Malfitano, to discuss the festival’s 40th anniversary, its new home at Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, and an exciting lineup featuring nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.

The celebration kicks off July 9th.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

Jennings: Housing, Politics and Your Wallet

Congress overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan housing bill aimed at increasing supply, expanding affordable housing, and helping communities address the housing shortage, but its future remains uncertain.

This week, Mike Jennings break down what’s in the legislation, why it’s facing delays, and what it could mean for homeowners, renters, and communities like Central New York.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

Livingstone Mukasa: More Than Words

Long before books, our stories lived through our voices.

Livingstone Mukasa joins Inspiration for the Nation to discuss the inaugural Day of Orature, a celebration of storytelling, spoken word, music, and cultural traditions inspired by the legacy of Dr. Mĩcere Gĩthae Mũgo.

Mukasa explores why oral traditions remain essential to preserving history, strengthening communities, and inspiring future generations.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

The Untold Story of July 5 and Black Independence on George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation

Way before Juneteenth, did you know that Black New Yorkers once celebrated freedom on July 5 instead of July 4?

In this special commentary, George Kilpatrick reflects on New York’s Emancipation Day, why Black communities celebrated on July 5, and how that tradition connects to Frederick Douglass’ historic speech in Rochester, and today’s conversations about freedom and equality.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

ICYMI: This Week (06/28/26) on Inspiration for the Nation


Catching up on this week’s (06/28/26) conversations on George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation? Here’s what you missed.

Vicki Brackens reflects on 50 years of scholarship and community impact through the Syracuse Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Kathleen Shaffer of Turning Stone Enterprises shares details on the newest hotel and what’s ahead.

Maurice Brown talks about his campaign for New York State Assembly District 129, and Frank Malfitano previews the upcoming Syracuse Jazz Fest.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.

Dr. Pratts: Strong Doesn’t Mean Silent

For generations, Black men have been taught to carry the weight alone. Dr. Michael Pratts challenges that narrative, sharing why vulnerability, community, and seeking support are essential to living healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

Dr. Pratts breaks down how stress, achievement, and silence impact mental health, and why healing starts with openness and connection.

Inspiration for the Nation Sunday Mornings on Power 620: the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcast.