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.

Happy Freedom Day!

Juneteenth is a time to honor freedom, recognize progress, and celebrate community.

We’re grateful for the stories, the culture, and the continued journey forward. We reflect, we celebrate, and we keeping pushing forward – together.

Happy Freedom Day!

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

This Week (06/21/26) on Inspiration for the Nation: Freedom, Voice and Future


This week (06/21/26) on George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation, we’re celebrating Juneteenth and Father’s Day with special conversations.

Mike Jennings has some tips on how to make your dollar stretch. Hear from Walter Dixie on making your voice heard as the early voting period winds down, and Rhonda Vesey shares what’s next for the South Side grocery store project.

Dr. Michael Pratts recognizes Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month and its importance in the Black community.

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

ICYMI: Jazz in the City Returns to Syracuse

Summer is here (almost), and so is CNY Jazz in the City.

Wayne and Miles Tucker opened the Jazz in the City Concert Series* with reflections on growth and uplifting the community through music.

*See full lineup below.

“I think we’ve got a real blockbuster of a summer, too. In terms of talent, and in terms of public health services and information,” said Luttinger.

George Kilpatrick sits down with Larry Luttinger, Executive Director of the CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, to discuss the 2026 Jazz in the City concert series, bringing six weeks of live music, health resources, food vendors, and family-friendly fun to neighborhoods across Syracuse.

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

Harper on the Legacy and Future of the Association

For 108 years, the Dunbar Association has helped shape the Syracuse community through service, support, and leadership. Andre Harper reflects on the organization’s remarkable history, its impact across generations, and the vision guiding its future.

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

Festival of Dance: Tibbs on Celebrating Culture

Through music and movement, the Festival of Dance serves as a celebration of culture and connection.

Executive Director Valerie Tibbs discusses the event’s purpose and why investing in young people remains central to the mission of Syracuse Community Connections.

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

Juneteenth, Black History & A Community Celebration

Fellowship, food, fireworks, and an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of freedom.

Rev. Phil Turner explores the deeper meaning of Juneteenth and why celebrating freedom remains as important as ever. Plus, details on Bethany Baptist Church‘s annual community celebration.

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

Jennings: Social Security Could Run Out Soon

It’s time to Check Your Money! A new Social Security Administration report projects retirement trust funds could be depleted by 2032. What does that mean for current and future retirees?

Mike Jennings explains the latest report, why the projected timeline has moved up, and how benefit reductions could impact millions of Americans.

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

This Week (06/14/26) on Inspiration for the Nation: Celebrations, Traditions and Voices


This week (06/14/26) on George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation:

First, Mike Jennings breaks down a new report on social security benefits. Rev. Phil Turner returns to discuss Bethany Baptist Church’s Juneteenth Celebration and the historical significance behind the observance. Then, Andre Harper joins to preview the 108th Dunbar Association Celebration.

Valerie Tibbs shares what’s in store for Sunday’s Festival of Dance.

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

A Syracuse Homecoming with Wayne and Miles Tucker

For Wayne and Miles Tucker, this wasn’t just another performance.

Returning to Syracuse meant revisiting a community that has been part of their story for years. During the CNY Jazz in the City kickoff series, the brothers shared their thoughts on creativity, brotherhood, and the role music can play in bringing people together.

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

Ransome: The Art of Telling Our Stories

For more than 30 years, James Ransome has used art to tell stories that educate, inspire, and empower.

The acclaimed illustrator joins George Kilpatrick Inspiration for the Nation to discuss the creative process behind his work, the importance of representation in children’s books, and the role artists play in preserving history. Along the way, he shares personal stories about family, teaching, and the people who helped shape his career.

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