It All Begins Here

Seattle icons "Tha Def Chef" Jimaine Miller and revolutionary therapist and author Ashley McGirt-Adair joined The Pop-Up! together—a massive link-up of two frontline leaders dedicated to feeding the soul and healing the minds of our community.

Alongside host The Big O, the guests broke down a heavy-hitting slate of headlines: the urgent battle for Black voting rights stretching from the frontlines in Alabama to Washington state's newly protected legislative maps, the escalating fraud probe rocking King County, and the critical cultural crossroads facing 23rd and Jackson amid devastating Central District closures.

They also dove into the polarizing intersection of AI and mental health, celebrating culinary royalty Chef Kristi Brown’s incredible 2026 Diversity Champion award, and unpacking the fierce online debate surrounding reality star Cheyenne Bryant’s academic credentials.

Deaunte Damper, The Big O, and Ashleigh McCurdy broke down impactful local stories, mental health awareness, and Deaunte’s recent birthday party in Coleman Commons.

The panel tackles this week's headlines, including Mayor Katie Wilson’s new solar-powered public restroom pilot program in Pioneer Square, recent shootings and acts of violence across Seattle, and the Black Heritage Society President Stephanie Johnson-Toliver’s recognition at yesterday’s Steelheads Sunday at T-Mobile Park.

The trio recaps Deaunte’s Official Birthday Pride Party held at Coleman Commons. With sponsorships from WeRise Wines and Métier Brewing, Converge friends and family came together to celebrate Deaunte and his historic accomplishment: being appointed the 2026 Seattle Pride Grand Marshal.

Finally, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the hosts discuss recent controversy involving lifestyle guru Cheyenne Bryant and revisit moving words from Tacoma community leaders.

On a special Tacoma Takeover episode of “The Pop-Up!,” guest host Elisha Michelle, a culture curator, returned to the Black Media Matters Studio. Elisha is back with all her people—a hand-picked lineup of the 253's most influential entrepreneurs, artists, and community pillars—to bring that signature "Legendary" energy to the airwaves.

Lineup Highlights:

Cinnamon Jovan: The published author of Drink Your Beauty and host of the CJ: Unfiltered podcast kicks off the night to discuss self-expression and helping others find authenticity.

India Irons: Executive Director of Fearless Dance Studio and a Christian Therapist and Mental Health Clinician, India will share how she merges faith and mental health to connect with Tacoma’s youth, and why dance is a vital tool for community connection.

Don Pizzle: Hip-hop artist and founder of A.O.S Clothing discusses his new album, P.O.L.O, and dives into the sounds and latest trending news from the Tacoma hip-hop scene.

LROC: Elisha’s co-host and co-founder of LX3 Entertainment, LROC is breaking down "Marketing 101" and sharing insights on building a media empire.

Dieon Lister & Donald "DJ" Taber: Representing Black Royalty Promotions and Hydro Liph, they discuss curating safe spaces, developing synergy, and the health benefits of alkaline water.

Akeil "Mack" Richardson: The artist and founder of The Stronger Family Foundation closes the night by speaking on the importance of family and community, plus sharing updates on his upcoming projects.