NEXT with Marcus Atkinson

This special dual episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson explores two powerful stories centered on family, legacy and the search for understanding.In the first half, Marcus sits down with Donald Middleton, author of the Conversations with My Dad book series and the newest addition to the BlaXcess Media network with a podcast bearing the same name. Donald discusses the wisdom, memories and life lessons passed down through conversations with his father—and how preserving those stories can strengthen families across generations.In the second half, Marc Blount of Blount Conversations joins Marcus for a serious discussion about the disappearance and death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells. Together, they examine the known timeline, the conflicting accounts and the lingering questions surrounding the case, while separating verified facts from online speculation.From the conversations that shape a life to the questions a grieving family still needs answered, this episode reminds us why stories, truth and legacy matter.NEXT airs on BlaXcess Media, 92.7 FM WICU-HD2, with an expanded hour-long broadcast on WQLN NPR on the fourth Sunday of every month.

NEXT with Marcus Atkinson returns with a powerful community-centered conversation featuring activist, organizer, and media voice Deonte Cooley. From speaking passionately at Erie City and County Council meetings to organizing impactful community forums, Deonte has become one of the region’s most outspoken advocates for accountability and change.This episode also provides an update on the Marchello Woodard case, explores the state of activism in Erie, and introduces Deonte’s new BlaXcess Media program, The Social Impact. Expect honest dialogue, strong opinions, and a conversation rooted in culture, community, and change.

On this episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson, Marcus sits down with Ben Wilson, CEO of GECAC, to explore how one of Erie County’s most important human service agencies is connected to a much larger national movement.From senior services and workforce development to housing support, education, utility assistance, and community partnerships, GECAC’s work reaches thousands of residents every year. But this conversation goes beyond programs. It looks at the Community Action network across America, the continued fight against poverty, and why local leadership matters when families, seniors, workers, and neighborhoods are facing real economic pressure.This is a conversation about dignity, data, service, and the power of community action, right here in Erie.

On this episode of NEXT 2.0, Marcus sits down with his engineer, 26-year-old Alex Staley, for a conversation that is years in the making. Marcus has mentored Alex since he was in the third grade through youth programs and media arts, and today, that relationship has come full circle in a powerful way. What began as guidance and encouragement in childhood has grown into a real-life example of what long-term mentorship can produce: trust, growth, talent, and purpose. This episode highlights the impact of investing in young people over time and shows what can happen when someone is given the support to develop into their full potential.

On this episode of NEXT, guest hosts Marc Blount and Chuck Cammarata join Marcus Atkinson live on air for the very first time for a spirited and insightful conversation on the issues shaping our community and the country. From the Jefferson Elementary incident and Mayor Devlin’s leadership style to reflections on America’s 250th anniversary and more, this episode brings bold discussion, strong opinions, and thoughtful perspective. Hear NEXT on its longtime home, WQLN, and now across the growing reach of BlaXcess Media, as the conversation continues on both the old and the new networks.