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  • Homeownership in 2026 Barriers Breakthroughs and the Path Forward

    Homeownership in 2026 Barriers Breakthroughs and the Path Forward
    2026/04/01
    Buying a home in Buffalo is getting harder. Rising interest rates, low inventory, and higher loan amounts are putting pressure on first time buyers, especially working-class families and non-native English speakers. Takeysha Mudzingwa and Jim Ahrens from Five Star Bank break down what’s changed and share practical strategies to navigate credit, financing, and the path from pre-qualification to closing.
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    55 分
  • Energy Efficiency Programs for Low Income Households in WNY

    Energy Efficiency Programs for Low Income Households in WNY
    2026/03/30
    NOCO President and CEO Michael Casciano discusses how the company is expanding energy efficiency programs to help low- to moderate-income households in Western New York reduce energy costs. In a conversation with I’Jaz Je’ceil, he explains how free energy audits and insulation upgrades can lower bills, while also addressing the barriers many families face in accessing these programs.
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    55 分
  • Women in Power and the Path Forward

    Women in Power and the Path Forward
    2026/03/25
    As Women’s History Month continues, this episode of What’s Next? focuses on leadership, representation, and the ongoing push for gender equity in government. The conversation also explores the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, along with efforts to address disparities in pay, representation, and mental health support.
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    55 分
  • How Storytelling Connects Community and Academia

    How Storytelling Connects Community and Academia
    2026/03/23
    The University at Buffalo’s Indigenous Studies Department is preparing for its annual Storytellers Conference, centered on the theme Life, Breath, Justice for Our Future. On this episode of What’s Next?, Mishuana Goeman and Aaron VanEvery discuss the purpose and impact of the conference, highlighting the importance of storytelling, language, and intergenerational dialogue in Indigenous communities. They also reflect on the role of storytelling in bridging academia and community, while shaping identity and preserving culture.
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    55 分
  • Restorative Justice and School Suspensions in Buffalo Public Schools

    Restorative Justice and School Suspensions in Buffalo Public Schools
    2026/03/16
    Buffalo Public Schools are under scrutiny following the New York State Attorney General’s investigation into student suspensions and disciplinary practices. In this episode of What’s Next?, Dina Thompson of the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and training director Andy Prinzing speak with contributor Ekua Mends-Aidoo about how restorative justice can help address the root causes of student behavior, strengthen relationships in schools, and significantly reduce suspensions.
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    55 分
  • Honoring Women’s Voices on What’s Next

    Honoring Women’s Voices on What’s Next
    2026/03/11
    In recognition of Women’s History Month, this episode of What’s Next? revisits powerful conversations with women making a difference across Western New York. We begin with Sharon Sanford, founder of the Sadie Strong Project, who shares her journey as a breast cancer survivor and her mission to promote early detection, healthy living, and empowerment for women affected by breast cancer. We also hear from dietitian and nutritionist Rachel Laster as she discusses the challenges of maintaining New Year’s resolutions and the importance of sustainable, long term dietary habits.
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    55 分
  • How Neighborhood Centers Are Supporting Buffalo Families

    How Neighborhood Centers Are Supporting Buffalo Families
    2026/03/09
    Neighborhood centers have long supported families across Buffalo, but community needs are growing. On this episode of What’s Next?, Chandra Redfern, CEO of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, discusses rising demand for services including food access, childcare support, and programs for older adults. She also shares how the organization is shifting to dignity centered food shares and how a new 1.2 million dollar grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Foundation will expand respite care for caregivers.
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    55 分
  • The Nursing Home Funding Crisis

    The Nursing Home Funding Crisis
    2026/03/04
    Western New York has lost eight not-for-profit nursing homes since 2014, with providers citing chronic Medicaid underfunding and daily losses of up to $150 per resident. As lawmakers debate the New York State budget, advocates are pushing for $750 million to stabilize nursing homes and prevent more closures. Sebrina Barrett of LeadingAge New York, Hadley Horrigan of Catholic Health, and Lisa Haglund of Heritage Ministries join What’s Next? for a conversation about funding, access to care, and what it means for families across the region.
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    55 分