Experience Chicago's Most Influential Voices | N'DIGO STUDIO Immerse yourself in the heart of Chicago's culture, politics, and breaking stories with N'DIGO STUDIO, the premier podcast spotlighting the city's most compelling conversations. Cultural powerhouse Hermene Hartman brings you unfiltered access to Chicago's changemakers, from grassroots activists to bestselling authors and political giants. Each episode cuts through the noise to deliver raw, authentic discussions that matter. Whether we're unpacking the latest political shakeups, celebrating Chicago's vibrant arts scene, or tackling tough conversations about race and culture, N'DIGO STUDIO brings you the stories behind the headlines. What you'll discover: - In-depth interviews with Chicago's most influential voices - Fresh perspectives on politics, culture, and social justice - Exclusive conversations with bestselling authors and artists - Behind-the-scenes insights into Chicago's power players - Candid discussions about issues affecting Black Chicago and beyond Join the conversation as Hermene Hartman delivers thought-provoking dialogue that informs, challenges, and inspires. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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November 8, 202628 min
Governor JB Pritzker Talks Chicago Bears, AI, Trump & His Political Future
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker joins N'DIGO Studio host Hermene Hartman for an exclusive conversation about the issues shaping Chicago, Illinois, and the nation. From the future of the Chicago Bears and the growing impact of AI and data centers to education funding, public safety, voting rights, and women's healthcare, Governor Pritzker shares his perspective on the decisions affecting Illinois residents. In a special "Ask the Governor" segment, he responds to questions from everyday Chicagoans about crime, taxes, opportunities for young people, and a possible run for president. The governor also opens up about his mother's activism and how her legacy continues to influence his political career. It's a candid conversation about leadership, public policy, and the future of Illinois. Host: Hermene Hartman Guest: Governor JB Pritzker Visit N'DIGO Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
November 1, 202628 min
Freedom of the Press: Is Journalism Under Attack?
What happens when the government decides which journalists get access and which voices get shut out? On this episode of N’DIGO Studio , host Hermene Hartman sits down with three respected journalists for a timely conversation about freedom of the press, political power, and the future of news in America. Joining the discussion are Charles Whitaker , Dean of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism; Tahman Bradley , political reporter for WGN-TV; and Brandon Pope , political editor at FOX 32 Chicago. Together, they examine President Donald Trump's confrontations with the news media, the growing influence of social media and podcasts, and the responsibility journalists have to maintain credibility in an era of misinformation. From White House press restrictions to corporate media ownership and political influence, the conversation raises a critical question: Can democracy thrive without a free and independent press? Listen to N’DIGO Studio for a candid conversation about journalism, accountability, and why the truth still matters. Visit: ndigo.com Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
October 25, 202628 min
Why Doctors Dismiss Women's Pain | Dr. Sameena Rahman on Medical Bias & Menopause
Why are so many women still fighting to be heard about their own bodies? In this revealing episode of N'DIGO Studio Podcast , host Hermene Hartman sits down with board-certified OB-GYN, sexual medicine and menopause specialist Dr. Sameena Rahman , author of Brown Girls' Disease: A Guide to Sexual Health and Empowerment Through a South Asian Lens . Dr. Rahman confronts the medical bias, cultural silence, and misinformation that have shaped women's healthcare for generations. Drawing from her clinical experience and her own experience of being dismissed during childbirth, she explains why women—particularly women of color—often struggle to receive the care they deserve. The conversation explores: Medical gaslighting and why women's pain is often dismissed Racial disparities in maternal healthcare Menopause, sexual health, and changes in libido The influence of culture, religion, and shame on women's understanding of their bodies Egg freezing, fertility, and reproductive choices How women can advocate for themselves in medical settings From the experiences of Serena Williams and Halle Berry to the everyday challenges women face in doctors' offices, this conversation challenges the silence surrounding women's health. The message is clear: Women deserve to be heard, informed, and empowered to take control of their healthcare. Listen to this important conversation on N'DIGO Studio Podcast. Hosted by: Hermene Hartman Guest: Dr. Sameena Rahman Season 8 | Episode 4 #NDIGOStudio #WomensHealth #DrSameenaRahman #MedicalBias #Menopause #WomensEmpowerment https://ndigo.com/ For More On Dr. Sameena Rahman: visit: https://www.instagram.com/gynogirl/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
October 18, 202628 min
Barbara Bates: Dressing Michael Jordan & 40 Years of Fashion | N'DIGO Studio
From dressing Michael Jordan to transforming lives through fashion, Barbara Bates has spent 40 years building a legacy that extends far beyond the runway. In this exclusive episode of N'DIGO Studio , host Hermene Hartman sits down with legendary Chicago fashion designer Barbara Bates for an intimate conversation about style, entrepreneurship, resilience, and giving back. Bates shares how her career began while working as a secretary at First National Bank, how a chance encounter with NBA player Sam Perkins led to designing for Michael Jordan and members of the Chicago Bulls, and why she built her fashion business around timeless designs rather than passing trends. But her story is about more than dressing celebrities. Bates opens up about becoming a teenage mother, creating custom prom dresses for young people, surviving breast cancer, and helping establish the Barbara Bates Breast Imaging Center at Mount Sinai Hospital. She also reflects on her experience on NBC's Fashion Star , shares her candid fashion advice, and discusses plans to celebrate her 40th anniversary with a fashion presentation at the Obama Presidential Center. In this episode: How Barbara Bates became Michael Jordan's fashion designer Building a successful fashion business without knowing how to sew The difference between personal style and fashion trends Turning her experience as a teen mother into an opportunity to empower young people Her breast cancer journey and fundraising efforts for Mount Sinai Hospital Celebrating 40 years of Chicago fashion and design Host: Hermene Hartman Guest: Barbara Bates Series: N'DIGO Studio | Season 8, Episode 3 Listen to a remarkable conversation about creativity, perseverance, community, and the power of using your gifts to make a difference. Discover more conversations at NDIGO.com . Subscribe to N'DIGO Studio on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
October 4, 202628 min
Jayne Kennedy on memoir “Plain Jayne,” Breaking Barriers & Making Television History | N’DIGO Studio
Jayne Kennedy has spent a lifetime breaking barriers, and now the legendary actress, sportscaster, producer, and cultural icon is telling her story in her own words. In this episode of N’DIGO Studio , host Hermene Hartman sits down with Jayne Kennedy for a candid conversation about her groundbreaking career, the doors she opened for Black women in television and sports broadcasting, and the experiences behind her memoir, Plain Jayne . From Hollywood and modeling to becoming a pioneering presence on CBS Sports’ The NFL Today , Kennedy built a career at a time when few Black women were given access to those spaces. She reflects on navigating fame, challenging expectations, family, resilience, and what it means to finally tell the story behind the public image. It’s a conversation about more than celebrity. It’s about legacy, representation, reinvention, and a Black woman who helped change what America saw on television. N’DIGO Studio with Hermene Hartman features candid conversations with newsmakers, cultural icons, creatives, and thought leaders shaping Black culture, history, and contemporary life. Guest: Jayne Kennedy Overton Host: Hermene Hartman Series: N’DIGO Studio Season 8, Episode 1 Guest Connections Jayne Kennedy IG| @jaynekennedyoverton Website| https://jaynekennedy.com/ Host Hermene Hartman Connections IG| @ndigobyhermene Facebook| @iamhermenehartman TikTok| @hermene10 N'DIGO Studio Connections Website: N'Digo YouTube Channel: @ndigostudio Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
December 21, 202528 min
Congressman Danny Davis on The Fight for Black Voices in Chicago
What does it truly mean to represent the marginalized in today’s America? Congressman Danny Davis joins Hermene Hartman for a raw look at the state of Black politics in Chicago. From his roots in Arkansas to the halls of Congress, Davis connects the dots between the activism of the 1960s and the urgent threats facing democracy today. In this episode, we discuss: The 1960s vs. Now: How the political climate has shifted and what we’ve lost along the way. The Power of the Black Vote: Why civic disengagement is the biggest threat to our community. Legacy & Leadership: Davis’s direct advice to the next generation of Black politicians. Chicago’s Future: Navigating the specific challenges of urban development and education. Quote of the Week: "Education and community involvement are pivotal in fostering change." — Congressman Danny Davis Connect with N'Digo: Instagram: @ndigobyhermene Website: ndigo.com Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
December 14, 202528 min
Chicago Politics Roundtable: Fighting Misinformation in Media
Host Hermene Hartman sits down with veteran journalists Curtis Lawrence and Darcel Rockett to examine how misinformation is reshaping Chicago's political landscape and what it means for local communities. In This Episode: How recent Homeland Security and ICE actions are impacting Chicago's marginalized communities The rising pressure on journalists to self-censor and the fight for accurate reporting Social media's role in amplifying political narratives, both true and false Why Chicago needs new leadership that reflects its diverse voices Lawrence and Rockett share firsthand accounts of covering politics under intimidation, the critical role of community journalism in documenting this moment, and how grassroots activism is pushing back against fear-driven policies. This conversation bridges media, power, and community storytelling. It is essential listening for anyone invested in Chicago's future, social justice, and the intersection of race, culture, and politics. Subscribe to N'DIGO STUDIO for more conversations with Chicago's changemakers and cultural icons. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
December 7, 202528 min
Tonika Lewis Johnson: Reimagining Chicago Through Art and Activism
What does it truly mean to confront the realities of segregation in a city like Chicago? In this episode of N'DIGO STUDIO , host Hermene Hartman sits down with social justice artist and MacArthur Genius Fellow Tonika Lewis Johnson , whose work continues to reshape how Chicago understands race, place, and community. Johnson reflects on art as a catalyst for change, sharing how projects like the Folded Map Project build empathy by connecting residents from neighborhoods long divided by policy and perception. She also discusses Unblocked Englewood , her latest initiative, repairing homes in historically disinvested areas and highlighting why ownership and equity are key to a thriving city. As a bestselling author, Johnson’s book “Don’t Go” amplifies personal stories from Chicago’s South and West Sides, challenging stereotypes and reframing what authentic Black storytelling looks like. Throughout the conversation, she and Hartman explore how creativity, civic engagement, and community memory intersect. This episode offers a clear, grounded look at how one artist is using her platform to push for a more just and connected Chicago. Tune in for a powerful conversation on belonging, revitalization, and the role of art in shaping the future of our neighborhoods. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
November 30, 202528 min
Hermene Hartman and Rahm Emanuel Discuss Civic Engagement, Education, and the Art of Political Dialogue in Chicago
What does it take to lead effectively in today's complex political landscape? In this enlightening episode of N'DIGO STUDIO, host Hermene Hartman sits down with Rahm Emanuel, a true powerhouse in American politics whose career has spanned the roles of Congressman, Chief of Staff to President Obama, Mayor of Chicago, and U. S. Ambassador to Japan. Emanuel shares, "Effective leadership is about having the intellectual vision, stamina, and the ability to motivate teams," offering listeners a masterclass in the qualities that define successful leaders. Join us as we dive deep into thought-provoking dialogue about leadership, democracy, and America's evolving role on the global stage. Emanuel reflects on lessons from his diverse leadership experiences, emphasizing the need to build strong, risk-taking teams and the importance of listening to constituents. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of politics in Chicago and beyond. As the conversation unfolds, Emanuel critiques the current state of the Democratic Party, pinpointing a disconnection with middle-class values and the urgent need to address pressing societal issues, particularly in education. With a keen eye on the political climate under Trump, he underscores the importance of unity and effective governance to confront national challenges head-on. This episode resonates deeply with the themes of social justice and community impact, making it a vital addition to the discourse surrounding black culture and community revitalization. Emanuel also draws intriguing comparisons between the educational systems of the U. S. and Japan, highlighting the role of community in fostering child development. This discussion not only sheds light on educational reforms but also connects to broader themes of urban development and grassroots activism. As we explore these cultural conversations, listeners will gain insights into the core values that underpin American democracy. As we wrap up this exclusive interview, Emanuel shares his thoughts on the future of American democracy, urging a return to foundational principles that promote freedom and equality. This episode of N'DIGO STUDIO is not just a political conversation; it’s a rich tapestry of Chicago stories and storytelling that will inspire you to reflect on your role in shaping the community. Tune in for an episode that promises to enlighten and engage, as we navigate the complexities of leadership, politics, and cultural identity in our ever-evolving society. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
November 23, 202528 min
Culinary Conversations: Hermene Hartman on Chicago’s Restaurant Renaissance with Chefs and Restaurateurs
What turns a restaurant into a neighborhood staple in Chicago’s vibrant food scene? In this episode of N’DIGO STUDIO , host Hermene Hartman sits down with culinary leaders shaping the city’s dining renaissance: Chef Xavier (Southern Chicago) , Chef Emani (Brulee) , Chef Royce of (Soul Prime) , and Tiffany Burrell, co-owner of Soul Food Lounge . Together, they explore how social media, particularly viral reviews, are reshaping the landscape for Black-owned restaurants. From the widely discussed “Keith Lee effect” to unexpected celebrity shoutouts, our guests reveal how a single TikTok moment can surge foot traffic, revive struggling businesses, and transform visibility overnight. But the conversation goes deeper than food trends. The chefs and restaurateurs share candid stories about: building community through cuisine navigating Chicago politics and neighborhood revitalization surviving the highs and lows of the restaurant industry innovation, authenticity, and menu storytelling the power and pressure of going viral This episode shines a light on the resilience, creativity, and cultural influence of Black entrepreneurship in Chicago, where dining is not just a meal, but a movement. Engaging, insightful, and rooted in real Chicago voices, this conversation will resonate with food lovers, community advocates, and aspiring business owners alike. Tune in for a rich blend of laughter, cultural commentary, and inspiration, and discover how these culinary changemakers are feeding both the city and the spirit of community. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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