A More Perfect Union with Nii-Quartelai
News & Politics
About
“A More Perfect Union” with Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey will serve as a daily pop culture and political news digest with unfiltered conversations, unafraid to say the quiet part out loud. Whether it’s the headlines shaping the world or the bold voices shaping the culture, Dr. Quartey will curate a smarter, more meaningful take on the day’s news and events without fluff, fear, or favor.
Episodes
- Interconnected Justice Founder and Former U.S. State Department Sr. Advisor for Religious & Global Affairs Bishop Joseph Tolton joins us to
This episode discusses a discrimination lawsuit against the New York Times, focusing on Trump's comments regarding Pope Leo and Rubio's trip to Rome.
- Legendary San Francisco Mayor Makes the Case For Tom Steyer for CA Governor
Hon. Willie Brown, former San Francisco Mayor, joins Nii-Quartelai to discuss Black political power and announces his official endorsement of Tom Steyer for California Governor. A video of the discussion is also available.
- L.A. Superior Court Judge CARE Court Mythbusting
Judge Rene Caldwell Gilbertson of the Los Angeles County Superior Court shares insights into the CARE Court. She discusses how the legal system addresses the crisis of unhoused individuals.
- Candidate for California Lieurtenant Governor Michael Tubbs Running to Get You Paid for Your Data
Former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs is interviewed about his campaign for California Lieutenant Governor. He discusses the pulse of the race.
- NPR Investigative Journalist & "Forgotten Souls" Author Cheryl Thompson
Cheryl W. Thompson, author of "Forgotten Souls," discusses the Lost Tuskegee Airmen. The conversation explores why these individuals were omitted from historical narratives and their legacy.
- Gary Indiana Mayor Eddie Melton on Michael Biopic Effect
Gary Mayor Eddie Melton joins the conversation to discuss how the city of Gary is leveraging the cultural momentum of the Michael biopic to fuel a new era of tourism, economic growth, and municipal pride.
- Comedian Cedric the Entertainer on Netflix Movie "Swapped" and Return to Broadway
Cedric the Entertainer talks about his new Netflix animated film, “Swapped,” and his return to Broadway in August Wilson’s "Joe Turner’s Come and Gone." This marks his first major theatrical role in over a decade.
- Independent Black Journalist & Trump DOJ Target Georgia Fort on Launch of New Initiative
Georgia Fort, an award-winning journalist, discusses the launch of her initiative, Protect the Press, which aims to defend the First Amendment and address the perceived criminalization of journalism in America.
- Author & Death Doula Darnell Lamont Walker on Debut Book "Never Can Say Goodbye"
Death doula Darnell Lamont Walker discusses his debut book, "Never Can Say Goodbye," sharing experiences with end-of-life care and grief. The episode explores the cultural silence around death, especially within the Black community, and en…
- ABC News Deborah Roberts on National Headline to Trending Netflix Movie "The Perfect Neighbor"
Deborah Roberts joins A More Perfect Union to discuss the national fascination with 'The Perfect Neighbor,' a case that has gained significant attention on Netflix.
- Actor David Oyelowo on Solitary Confinement & New Film "Newborn" In Theaters Now
David Oyelowo joins the podcast to discuss his new film
- MacArthur “Genius” Jason Reynolds on New Audiobook "Soundtrack"
MacArthur “Genius” Award winner Jason Reynolds joins Nii-Quartelai on 'A More Perfect Union' to discuss his new audiobook "Soundtrack." The conversation explores how young adults cope with grief, identity, and life in the digital age.
- Former ATL Mayor & Author Keshia Lance Bottoms on New Book "Rough Side of the Mountain'
Keisha Lance Bottoms, former Atlanta Mayor, joins 'A More Perfect Union' to discuss her new book, 'Rough Side of the Mountain.' The conversation covers her journey from the judge's bench to the White House and her political advocacy for Ge…
- Actor & Author Blair Underwood on New Book "A Soldier's Wife"
Actor Blair Underwood joins Nii-Quartelai to discuss
- MLK’s Unfinished Work: The Black Church, Radical Inclusion & the Fight for Civil Rights
This episode of A More Perfect Union features Dr. Donta Morrison discussing the Black Church's role in civil rights and inclusivity. Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson joins to discuss the impact of current events on LGBTQ+ Am…
- Trump, Protest, Power & MLK’s Legacy
Dr. Calvin John Smiley analyzes current political events, including a proposal for Donald Trump to receive a Nobel Peace Prize and Trump's threat to use the Insurrection Act during protests. The discussion also touches upon the enduring le…
- International Affairs Panel on Venezuela
Dr. Nii-Quartelai leads a discussion on the Venezuela invasion with international affairs experts Desiree Cormier Smith and Bishop Joseph W. Tolton. They provide insights on racial justice, diplomacy, and human rights related to the confli…
- Pro Wrestler Al Snow on "Learning You" & Autism Advocacy
Wrestling Superstar Al Snow joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai on A More Perfect Union to discuss his film "Learning You." Snow shares his transition from wrestling to advocating for families with autism and special needs.
- KBLA’s Altadena Rising Town Hall: Understanding the Wildfire Recovery Compensation Fund (Part Two)
Part two of the Altadena Rising Town Hall, hosted by Tavis Smiley and James Farr, discusses the Southern California Edison "Fast Pay" Program for wildfire recovery. Fire survivors, community leaders, and advocates raise critical questions…
- KBLA’s Altadena Rising Town Hall: Understanding the Wildfire Recovery Compensation Fund (Part One)
Tavis Smiley and James Farr hosted a town hall in Altadena on November 6, 2025, discussing the Southern California Edison wildfire recovery compensation fund. Fire survivors, community leaders, and advocates, including Dr. Echelle Williams…
- They Don't Miss: "Late Show" Producer and "Unconventional Grief" Author
In the second hour of 'A More Perfect Union,' host Dr. Nii-Quartelai talks with "Late Show" producer Paul Mecurio about current political events and grief author Kelli Ware about her healing journey.
- Democratic Party Rising Stars: Malcolm Kenyatta & Dylan Hewitt on the Frontlines
Host Nii-Quartelai speaks with Democratic rising stars Dylan Hewitt and Malcolm Kenyatta about their political platforms and current events.
- Beyond Titles" Author on Unleashing Power of Authenticity
Dr. Nii-Quartelai hosts author Suezette Yasmin Robotham to discuss her book "Beyond Titles: Fearlessly Leading as Your Authentic Self." They explore insights for professionals to lead with vulnerability, clarity, and courage.
- Digital Community Violence Intervention Founder Sounds Off
Patrick M. Young, founder of the first digital community violence intervention organization, shares insights from his frontline work and reflections on MLK, Jr. and Emmett Till.
- Tyler Perry's "Beauty in Black" Co-Star Richard Lawson on Season 2
Dr. Nii-Quartelai interviews Richard Lawson, co-star of Tyler Perry's "Beauty in Black," to discuss Season 2 of the Netflix series. Lawson shares insights into his character
- Former Associate D.C. Attorney General on Hometown Federal Occupation
Dr. Nii-Quartelai and former D.C. Associate Attorney General Ryan L. Jones discuss local perspectives on federal occupation, the Trump administration's approach to the death penalty, and executive orders regarding cash bail.
- The Black Family Who Built America" Author Cheryl McKissack Daniel
Cheryl McKissack Daniel, author of "The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers," joins host Dr. Nii-Quartelai to share her family's pioneering story and discuss current national headlines and devel…
- Civil Rights Attorney Reacts to Trump Plans to Patrol D.C.
Civil Rights Attorney Todd Belcore discusses President Trump's proposed D.C. patrols and increased mass deportation efforts with host Nii-Quartelai. They also touch on the future of policing in Los Angeles compared to D.C.
- Legendary Spike Lee and Nikole Hannah-Jones Message to 2 Percenters
In the second hour of "A More Perfect Union," Nii-Quartelai speaks with Spike Lee about his new film "Highest 2 Lowest," inspiration, current events, and lessons from "Malcolm X." Nikole Hannah-Jones delivers a message to Jillian Michaels…
- Former White House Fellow on High Stakes & Dems Path from Political Wilderness
Nii-Quartelai hosts Former White House Fellow William Godwin to discuss the return of Texas State Democrats to the legislature, Trump's stance on vote-by-mail, and the Democratic party's emerging path forward.
- The State of American Leadership on Human Rights
In the second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai speaks with Desiree Cormier Smith about the US State Department's human rights report, a proposed military reaction force for civil unrest, and the Trump takeover of DC Police, discussing the implicati…
- Talking U.S. Politics with Author of "Don't Talk About Politics"
Sarah Stein Lubrano, author of "Don't Talk About Politics," joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai to discuss her view of a democracy in crisis due to the myth that political discussions change minds. She presents research and argues for alternative meth…
- MVAAFF Exclusive: Actor Courtney B. Vance & Bassett Vance Productions' President
Lynnette Ramirez, President of Bassett Vance Productions, joins Nii-Quartelai ahead of the MVAAFF panel "The Business of Storytelling." Actor Courtney B. Vance also joins to discuss his work and upcoming conversations.
- AMPU Exclusives with Niecy Nash, Charles Blow, Ts Madison & More
Dr. Nii-Quartelai hosts notable figures Niecy Nash Betts, Charles Blow, and Ts Madison in highlights from 'A More Perfect Union,' discussing culture and public consciousness.
- MVAA Film Festival Presents: "The Dutchman" Reimagined
Director and producer Andre Gaines joins host Nii-Quartelai to discuss his reimagined film "The Dutchman," based on Amiri Baraka's 1964 play. The conversation covers the film's screening at the Martha's Vineyard African-American Film Festi…
- "Lawless" Author and Courageous Texas Lawmaker Cautions the Nation
Nii-Quartelai speaks with Leah Litman about her book "Lawless," the Supreme Court, and the Trump administration's actions. Texas State Representative Christian Manuel discusses the GOP redistricting battle in Texas and its implications for…
- Kamala Harris Says “No thanks” to CA Governor Race. AMPU Contributors React.
In this episode of "A More Perfect Union," host Nii-Quartelai and contributors Al Reynolds and Isaac Wilson discuss Kamala Harris's choice to forgo the California Governor race. They also cover Texas Republicans' strategy to gain seats and…
- Tony Award Winning Actor Wendell Pierce on What’s New, Now, Next
In "A More Perfect Union," host Dr. Nii-Quartelai speaks with Tony Award-winning actor Wendell Pierce about why he believes "The Wire" should not return. Pierce also shares insights on his role in the new "Superman" film, his ownership of…
- Israeli Public Figures Standup, Impact of U.S. Withdrawal of Aide in Africa Begins
In the second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai and Desiree Cormier Smith discuss Israeli public figures calling for sanctions and the potential impact on the conflict. They also address food security in Africa.
- Not Your Typical Martha's Vineyard Story: A Native American Perspective
Joseph Lee, author of "Nothing More of This Land," joins Dr. Nii-Quartelai to discuss Indigenous identity and his family's story. The exploration spans locations from Martha's Vineyard to Alaska and California, including involvement with t…
- "The Life Coach," Healing, and Black Masculinity
Host Nii-Quartelai talks with
- Immigration Expert on Dropped Cases Against L.A. Protestors & More
Immigration lawyer Allen Orr joins host Nii-Quartelai to discuss dropped cases against L.A. protestors, the competence of federal prosecutors, and the impact of ICE raids on L.A. workers. They also touch upon Black Americans relocating abr…
- Daytime TV Host Turned Comeback CEO on Infertility Journey, $8B CBS Paramount Acquistion & More
Erica Cobb, a daytime TV host, shares her experiences with infertility and her new role as CEO of Comeback TV. The discussion also touches upon the $8 billion CBS Paramount acquisition.
- Why NYC Sanctuary City Policy, SCOTUS Voting Rights Pause & Open WI Gov. Race Matters
Dr. Nii-Quartelai and Civil Rights Attorney Todd Belcore analyze a lawsuit against NYC's sanctuary city policy and a SCOTUS voting rights decision. They also discuss the implications of Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers' decision to not run fo…
- Geopolitical Anecdote to Christian Nationalism: Black Internationalism
On 'A More Perfect Union with Nii-Quartelai,' Bishop Joseph W. Tolton joins the host to explore Black internationalism as a counterpoint to Christian nationalism.
- America's Public Safety & Defund Public Education Revolution Hits Youngstown, Ohio
Dr. Nii-Quartelai and Mayor Tito Brown of Youngstown, Ohio, discuss national public safety trends and their impact on public education. They also address the potential consequences of a veto override by Ohio Republicans regarding property…
- Dr. Ian Smith's Lessons from "Eat Your Age" Book Tour
In the second hour, Dr. Nii-Quartelai and Dr. Ian Smith discuss lessons from Smith's book tour, obstacles to healthy living, and the keys to success in the health and wellness field.
- Remembering Theo Huxtable + Unforgettable Hunter Biden Interview
Dr. Nii-Quartelai and Dr. Jonathan Collins remember the legacy of Theo Huxtable and discuss Hunter Biden's interview, including his thoughts on Democratic Party elites and Kamala Harris.
- Olympic Gold Medalist's Growing Water Safety Movement
Olympic Gold Medalist Cullen Jones joined Dr. Nii-Quartelai to discuss aquatic safety and his initiative to teach more Black and Brown individuals to swim. This episode was reshared in response to the drowning of Actor Malcolm Jamal-Warner…
- MLK, Jr. Files, Breonna Taylor's Aunt Handcuffed, & Remembering Malcom Jamal-Warner
This episode features Dr. Nii-Quartelai, William Godwin, and Isaac Wilson discussing the release of MLK, Jr. assassination files, the handcuffing of Breonna Taylor's aunt, and remembering Malcolm Jamal-Warner.