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From BBQ to Business Loans: This Week on Back2Besa with Jazz From Seattle
Jazz from Seattle steps into the spotlight as the guest host for Episode 242 of Back2Besa this weekend, filling in while Besa Gordon enjoys a well-deserved break. This week’s episode is a vibrant tapestry of community engagement, entrepreneurial spirit, and personal celebration.
PHOTOS: Elijah L. Lewis Killer Sentenced to 35 Years
On Friday, May 16, Elijah L. Lewis’ killer, Patrick Cooney, received his official sentencing, totaling 35 years for second-degree murder and first-degree assault with a deadly firearm.
Bridging Continents: Converge Media Welcomes European Delegation
Converge Media's Black Media Matters Studio recently served as an educational hub for a delegation of journalists and business professionals from the Balkans, as part of the Open World Balkans: Business Development program.
From Valentino to Vulnerability: 24kGoldn Talks Growth, Gratitude, and the Power of Letting Go on Back2Besa
When 24kGoldn sat down with Besa Gordon at the Black Media Matters Studio, it felt like a full-circle moment—five years after their first interview, the chart-topping artist returned with new music, fresh insight, and a more grounded outlook on life and artistry.
Get Ready, Seattle! W. Kamau Bell is Bringing "Who's With Me?" to The Neptune Theatre!
Mark your calendars, Seattle! The incisive and hilarious W. Kamau Bell is heading our way, bringing his acclaimed "Who's With Me?" tour to the historic Neptune Theatre on Friday, June 27, 2025. Get ready for an evening of thought-provoking comedy that tackles the pressing social and political issues of our time with Bell's signature wit and insight.
From Staten Island to Thailand: Starda Talks Legacy, Music, and Starting a Party on Back2Besa
When artist and entrepreneur Starda pulled up to The Black Media Matters Studio and Back2Besa last May, it was his first time in Seattle—and what better way to make a debut than while in town for the Lil Wayne & Friends Tour. Fresh off the release of his project Start A Party with legendary producer Ron Browz, Starda sat down with Besa Gordon to talk about his journey from Staten Island cafeterias to international stages.
Learning and Respect: A Discussion with Julie Pham, PhD
Trae Holiday recently sat down with Julie Pham, PhD, CEO of CuriosityBased and author of "7 Forms of Respect," for an insightful interview. The conversation delved into Julie's journey, the influence of her family's Vietnamese newspaper, and the motivations behind her work at CuriosityBased and her book.
Deeanthony: Embracing Authenticity and Community on "We Live In Color"
A recent "We Live In Color" episode on Converge Media featured an engaging discussion between host Deaunte Damper and the vibrant artist Deeanthony. Their conversation explored music, identity, community, and the importance of living genuinely.
Jazz From Seattle Highlights MUVA on Good Day Seattle — and Makes Her Back2Besa Hosting Debut
With Besa Gordon taking time off from Back2Besa to prioritize her health, Good Day Seattle and host Erin Mayovsky welcomed a fresh face to the studio—Jazz From Seattle, who not only filled in on-air but also brought viewers an impactful story about a new retail space changing the game for mompreneurs in Seattle.
Besa Gordon’s Real Seattle Media Mixer Returns with Networking, Vibes, and Ballet at McCaw Hall
Seattle’s creative community, mark your calendars, Besa Gordon’s The Real Seattle Media Mixer is officially back! After a long-awaited return, the beloved event for media professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, and community builders is set to bring the city together once again for an evening of real connection and real inspiration.
Back2Besa: Jazz From Seattle Takes the Helm for a PNW Black Business Uplift
This week on Back2Besa, guest host Jazz from Seattle fills in for Besa Gordon and delivers an action-packed episode highlighting the best of Seattle and beyond. Jazz kicks off the show by sharing a bit about herself and her deep roots in Seattle's Central District, setting the stage for a journey through local businesses, inspiring individuals, and cultural hotspots.
Luther Hughes: Art, Identity, and Living Authentically
In the latest episode of "We Live in Color," host Deaunte Damper sits down with the incredibly talented artist, author, and dancer, Luther Hughes. This episode is a powerful exploration of identity, vulnerability, and the transformative power of art.
Besa Gordon Announces Leave from "Back2Besa" to Focus on Health
Besa Gordon, the host of the TV show Back2Besa on FOX13 Seattle and FOX SOUL, has announced today that she will be taking a temporary leave from her show to focus on her ongoing skin health. In a video announcement, Besa explained that she's experiencing recurring skin issues similar to those she faced last year. "Unfortunately, we have gotten to that time of year when my skin really just likes to give me a big middle finger," Besa shared.
Shocked and Disheartened: Black Firefighters Respond to Property Sale Decision
Seattle, WA—In a press statement released this afternoon, the Northwest Association of Retired Black Fire Fighters (NWARBFF) expressed its “shock and disheartening” response to a court decision concerning a historic Seattle Black Fire Fighters Association (SBFFA) house in the Central District. The NARBFF asserted that a previous court ruling had identified an illegal sale of the property, violating an explicit court order. The decision held the defendants in contempt for the sale to Camila Borges, with sanctions expected.
Besa Gordon talks Sweetpea’s Custom Cakes on Good Day Seattle
In celebration of National Small Business Week, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon brought a delicious spotlight to FOX 13’s Good Day Seattle—featuring Sweetpea’s Custom Cakes, a Black woman-owned business nestled in Seattle’s University District. Founded by cake artist and entrepreneur Jennifer Jones, the shop is a vibrant testament to what’s possible when creativity meets community support.
Seattle Proclamation Celebrates Reverend Walden's Leadership in Police Reform
Earlier this week, the City of Seattle took a moment to honor Reverend Harriett Walden, a true advocate, leader, and changemaker. A proclamation document highlights her remarkable contributions to the community.
Don't Miss Out! Wellness and Resource Fair May 10th at Delridge Community Center
Mark your calendars! Get ready for an incredible community event on May 10th from 12 PM to 4:30 PM at the Delridge Community Center. Join Rob Ross and the team for a Wellness and Resource Fair that promises to be a fantastic experience for all ages.
The Trap Lab: Building Community and Business Through Movement in Federal Way
Federal Way, Washington – In a space pulsating with music and energy, The Trap Lab stands out as more than just a fitness studio. Founded and operated by sisters Icea Pettigrew and Sharde Bullard, this Black women-owned business has cultivated a vibrant community, successfully blending fitness, culture, and empowerment into a thriving enterprise.
Erika Evans Vies for Seattle City Attorney Position
Federal prosecutor and former Assistant Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans officially launched her campaign for Seattle City Attorney in March. Her campaign is a strong opposition against the Republican incumbent Ann Davison, focused on updating public safety measures, instating restorative justice models, and resisting the Trump administration.
The Art of Community: Mujale Chisebuka's Inspiring Journey
Trae Holiday recently sat down with the incredibly talented Mujale Chisebuka. From Zambia to the United States, Mujale's journey is one of art, community, and dedication. Trae Holiday explored Mujale's origins, his artistic evolution, and his passion for empowering others through his work.