Closer Look with Rose Scott

Local organizations are urgently responding to help Georgians who will soon be without federal assistance for food. More than 1.4 million Georgians will lose their benefits when the nation’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program stops issuing funds this Saturday due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott talks with leaders of several Georgia-based organizations working to make sure households across the state have food and other wraparound services. Guests include: Allison Ashe, the president and CEO of Wellroot Family Services Elizabeth Omilami, the president of Hosea Helps Lisa Regan, the senior director of programs and services at Saint Vincent de Paul, Georgia Plus, several former mayors of the City of Atlanta, along with business, civic and community leaders, are doubling down on their efforts to center diversity, equity, and inclusion. The group formed the new Soul of Atlanta Coalition. On Thursday, the coalition held the SOUL OF ATLANTA UNITY RALLY at Big Bethel AME Church. Following the rally, “Closer Look,” program host Rose Scott talks with former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and Jabari Simama, a former Atlanta city councilmember and retired educator. They discuss the coalition’s efforts to defend and preserve Atlanta's civil rights legacy amid the heightened attacks on diversity and inclusion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Data from the National Domestic Violence Hotline reveals, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men aged 18 or older have experienced domestic violence. “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott talks with Reverend Raushanah N. Butler, a Doctor of Ministry student and the director of alumni engagement for the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. She addressed the role and responsibility religious leaders and faith organizations have when it comes to addressing domestic violence. If you or someone you know needs assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Plus, more than 1.4 million Georgians are at risk of not receiving their monthly benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program as the government shutdown continues. We hear from Congresswoman Nikema Williams, who says the federal government has a $5 billion contingency fund that could be used to fund the SNAP program. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly 1.4 million Georgians rely on monthly SNAP benefits. As the federal government shutdown continues, President Donald Trump says the government will not fund SNAP benefits beyond this month, nor reimburse states that cover the cost. Meanwhile, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has also said the state is unable to do anything to help. Amid the unfolding situation, “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott talks with Georgia Democratic State Sen. Kim Jackson, who is calling for a special session that will allow Georgia lawmakers to vote on appropriating funds to provide emergency relief. Plus, for more than 40 years, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has been on the frontlines advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Kelly Robinson, the president of HRC, talks more about the history and mission of the organization and its ongoing efforts to push for change amid the current political and social climate. Lastly, Joeann Compton, affectionately known as "Momma Jo," was an educator, mentor and coach for more than 35 years. The Henry County tennis legend recently died. Monica Johnson, the co-founder of Above the Net, Donna Holder, the Henry County deputy director for parks and recreation, and Henry County public information director Melissa Robinson, talked about Compton’s life and legacy and how the county will continue to honor Momma Jo. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While economists have not declared a nationwide recession, new research from Moody's Analytics reveals many states are experiencing or are on the brink of a recession. Georgia, 21 other states and the District of Columbia are all being flagged. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott talked with Moody's Analytics senior director, Adam Kamins. He talked more about the current state of Georgia’s economy, the uncertainty of the government shutdown, as well as why he believes Georgia and the Atlanta economies are well-positioned long-term. Plus, we revisited Rose’s conversation with Chris Clark, the president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. During the discussion, Clark talked more about how economic uncertainty, instability in the job market, and severe immigration policies—plus the high cost of tariffs on consumers, small businesses and the agricultural industry have altered Georgia’s economic landscape. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” the Public Religion Research Institute is going beyond the protests and rhetoric to understand just how deep America’s political divides are. We discussed their 16th annual American Values Survey with PRRI CEO Melissa Deckman. Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder, Private Practice, Bridgerton, and the list doesn’t stop there. The creator behind each of those beloved programs is Shonda Rhimes. The executive producer and screenwriter is celebrated within her industry and by fans as someone who creates moving, thrilling, and heartfelt stories where everyone feels represented. While on her “Year of Yes” 10th Anniversary book tour in Atlanta, Rhimes spoke to Scott about what keeps her inspired, her outlook on AI, and the future of entertainment. Some of music’s most legendary artists, including some local icons, will hit the stage at Piedmont Park this weekend for the ONE Musicfest. The lineup for the music festival includes Future, Dungeon Family, The Roots, Ludacris, Mary J. Blige, Busta Rhymes, Doechii & more. Ahead of a weekend of exciting performances, “Closer Look” took a tour of the outdoor event as it was being set up and learned more about what the 30,000 attendees can expect. One Musicfest Director Josh Antenucci led the tour. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once the One Big Beautiful Bill was signed into law, it triggered coverage cuts to Medicaid. For rural hospitals that treat large numbers of Medicaid recipients, that means less revenue. According to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, the loss of funds is putting as many as 20 rural hospitals at risk of closing in Georgia. Some have already started to cut services, causing patients to drive an hour away for labor and delivery care. On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” Dr. Joy Baker, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist within the Wellstar Health System and Whitney Griggs, the Director of Health Policy at Georgians for a Healthy Future, discuss the impact this will have on rural communities. Some of the most eye-catching aspects of Atlanta are its art, statues, and architecture. But younger generations have not been quick to fill jobs related to architecture, engineering, and building. Oscar Harris, a notable Black architect in Atlanta, has stepped in with SPIKE Studio to inspire the next generation on the Atlanta they would build for the future. To discuss the SPIKE Studio Summer Academy, “Closer Look” is joined by Founder Oscar Harris and Melody Harclerode, the executive director of SPIKE Studio. Also, Students Warren Johnson and Anna-Bella Madison. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asma Khalid's personal philosophy towards journalism is to be fair. She's carried that philosophy through a long career as a journalist for NPR, and now as the co-host of "The Global Story" on the BBC. On her new program, she wants to show the ripple effect of American politics on the international community. On today's "Closer Look with Rose Scott," Khalid discusses how the U.S. is interconnected with the rest of the world, her difficult decision to leave NPR, and shares her memories about the late NPR Host Susan Stamberg. Also, a new survey asks MARTA riders about taking the bus. Staffing shortages and technological issues continue to frustrate everyday bus riders, that's according to a new report titled, "Voices from the Bus: MARTA Riders Speak Out." Jeremiah Jones, Propel ATL's advocacy manager, tells us more about the results of the survey. And what does it mean to be compassionate? Can schools, businesses, churches, and even neighborhoods help create an ecosystem of compassion? This weekend's CompassionCon taking place in the city of Decatur will offer a space for attendees to learn more. We're joined by Leanne Rubenstein and Iyabo Onipe, co-directors of Compassionate Atlanta, to talk about the fourth annual event. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation provides legal and other wraparound services to people facing stable housing challenges and intimate partner abuse. The Fulton County-based nonprofit, which places legal advocates and social workers in the courthouse and the communities to support survivors, has lost almost all its primary federal funding amid ongoing cuts under the Trump Administration. Michael Lucas, who serves as the executive director for the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation, talked with “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott about the impact of the cuts so far and how the organization is bracing for potential restructuring. Plus, we remember one of NPR's 'founding mothers.' Susan Stamberg passed away on October 16 at the age of 87. Today, we revisit Rose’s 2016 interview with the broadcast pioneer. During the discussion, Stamberg reflected on the early days of NPR, breaking barriers for women in journalism, her concerns about where the industry is headed, and her mother-in-law's iconic cranberry relish recipe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights has been closed since January 2025 for a major renovation that is nearly complete. The museum, which first opened in 2014, documents the stories of the civil rights movement and global human rights struggles. Now, the Atlanta-based cultural hub will include new east and west wings that house a café, several additional galleries—including one designed for children—three classrooms, and an expanded event space. As crews worked to install the final additions, “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott and the team stopped by NCCHR for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the new changes. Jill Savitt, president and CEO of NCCHR, who led the effort, guided Scott and the team through the upgraded facility. She highlighted how some of the museum’s new features and experiences will enhance the visitor experience and continue to further the museum's mission of being an educational gathering space for reflection, dialogue, and change. NCCHR will reopen to the public on Nov. 8. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women in the U.S. Data also reveals that in a group of eight women, one will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Additionally, there’s been a growing increase in the number of younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 27,136 women under the age of 45 were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022. October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On Thursday’s edition of “Closer Look,” program host Rose Scott talks with guests about everything from diagnosis to treatment, as well as the importance of younger women participating in clinical research trials. Guests included: Ashley Kennedy, a breast cancer survivor and participant of the 2025 Komen Georgia MORE THAN PINK Walk Theru Ross, the senior program manager of community outreach at Susan G. Komen Dr. Joel Okoli, a professor of surgery in the division of Surgical Oncology at Morehouse School of Medicine Plus, it's the end of an era. EATS, which is regarded as a neighborhood cafeteria, is closing after nearly 33 years. We hear from Robert "Bob" Hatcher, the owner of the eatery known for its meat-and-three format. He reflects on the day the restaurant opened and thanked his customers for making the restaurant part of the community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Civil rights champion Andrew Young has held many positions, including a U.S. congressman, ambassador, and Atlanta Mayor. He was also a top aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His life’s story, in his own words, is the focus of a new documentary. It’s called “Andrew Young: The Dirty Work.” Ahead of the film’s debut on MSNBC this Friday, October 17, Rachel Maddow, an Emmy-winning MSNBC host and author, who served as the executive producer of the documentary, reflects on Young’s legacy, his life’s work of championing civil rights and her process in documenting his story through film. Plus, post-pandemic, MARTA, as well as many other transit systems across the nation, are grappling with some of the same challenges. This includes declining ridership, funding instability, aging infrastructure, and competition from rideshare companies. Jonathan Hunt, who was recently appointed interim CEO and general manager of MARTA, talks with Rose about new initiatives to address lingering challenges ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and his vision for Georgia’s largest transit system. Lastly, Compassionate Atlanta is gearing up to host its 4th annual CompassionCon. The one-day event, described as a fusion between conference and festival, aims to promote compassion across organizations, schools, businesses, churches and communities and more. We hear from the co-directors of Compassionate Atlanta, Leanne Rubenstein and Iyabo Onipede. They talk more about the event and their nonprofit’s ongoing efforts to champion compassion across Georgia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paradise Baptist Church is one of Atlanta’s oldest historically Black churches – established in 1865, just after the Civil War. It grew out of a community Sunday School founded by then 12-year-old Dinah Watts Pace. Now, nearly two centuries later, the church is celebrating 160 years of faith, community, education, and economic development. Originally located in Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood and now in Grove Park, Paradise has remained a community cornerstone throughout its history. For a special audio documentary, “Closer Look” host Rose Scott and the team visited the church, which now sits at the intersection of Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway and Matilda Place in northwest Atlanta. Scott talks with church leaders about the church’s historical impact, its evolving role in the community, and how its legacy informs a forward-looking mission grounded in service, growth, and faith. Guests included: Dr. Charles A. Harper III, Paradise’s lead pastor Rev. S. Tarnace Watkins, Sr., executive pastor of Paradise Fred Stevens, consultant-in-residence with the Paradise Community Development Center, and Dr. Arletta Brinson, a lifelong member of the church, executive director of the Paradise Community Development Center, and co-chair of the church’s 160th anniversary See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While economic development in Georgia is steady, the state's economy is facing several crossroads. Economic uncertainty, instability in the job market, and severe immigration policies—plus the high cost of tariffs on consumers, small businesses and the agriculture industry have altered Georgia’s economic landscape. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott spoke to Chris Clark, the president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Clark discussed the state’s economy, the need for Democrats and Republicans to work together amid the federal government shutdown, as well as the Chamber’s ongoing push to reform the visa process for international workers. Plus, Propel ATL has released its “Voices from the Bus: MARTA Riders Speak Out” report. The bilingual survey aimed to capture the day-to-day experiences of riders on MARTA’s buses. It explored MARTA buses’ service frequency, reliability, accessibility, and equity. Jeremiah Jones, an advocacy manager at Propel ATL, discussed some of the key findings of the report and how the data can be used to drive MARTA’s operational and strategic decision-making to benefit its riders. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania found that trust in U.S. health and science agencies has declined since the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Amid the rapid spread of misinformation about vaccines, budget cuts, and layoffs at agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has public trust in the health care system reached a crisis level? Also, where can Georgians turn for credible medical information? “Closer Look” show host Rose Scott talks with Atlanta area doctors about how they are helping their patients navigate the current political and social climate. The guests also share some of their best practices for finding trusted medical advice. Guests included: Dr. Fiona Havers, an infectious disease physician, a vaccine expert, and a former CDC employee Dr. Cecil Bennett of Newnan Family Medicine Dr. Dawn Mandeville, an OB-GYN and a managing partner of Atlanta Gynecology & Obstetrics Dr. Nicholas Church of Somerset Medical Dr. Dhaval Desai, a board-certified Internist and pediatrician and owner of Direct Primary Care See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emory University is launching its global Compassion Shift initiative this week. It’s all part of Emory’s “Year of Compassion.” Ryder Delaloye, the associate director of Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning at Emory, talked more about the compassion initiatives, SEE Learning, and compassionate training. He also explained the difference between empathy and compassion, and talked about research that shows compassion is a skill that can be trained. Additionally, a new report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office reveals that more than $54.2 million in federal and state taxpayer dollars has been spent on administrative costs for the Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. That’s twice as much as what’s being spent on health care costs for Georgians. Margaret Coker, the co-founder and editor in chief at The Current, talks with show host Rose Scott about her coverage of the GOA report, plus the past and present state of health care in Georgia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To conclude “Closer Look’s” series for National Suicide Prevention and Awareness series, show host Rose Scott talks with guests about the impact of suicide on Georgia farmers, veterans and service members. Data from the National Rural Health Association shows that farmers are three to five times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Scott talks with Dr. John McElveen, the director of the Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance, and Natalie Roy, the CEO of AgriSafe Network. They discuss the unique stressors that Georgia growers and producers face and the lack of access to mental health services in rural areas of the state. The guests also shared how their respective organizations are working to address suicide amongst Georgia farmers. We then hear from Chris Stephens, the founder of #MilesForMike and the creative specialist for Stop Soldier Suicide. He told the story of his brother, Mike Stephens, who served in the U.S. Navy before dying by suicide in 2017. During the conversation, Chris shared details about his efforts to honor his brother’s legacy and spread awareness about suicide prevention. Lastly, Michael Mullet, the community relations director with Highland Rivers Behavioral Health, talked about free and affordable wrap-around mental health services and resources offered by 22 organizations through the Georgia Association of Community Service Boards. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021 and 2022, people ages 75 and older had the highest suicide rate among all age groups. The data also reveals the rate was largely driven by males. First, for “Closer Look’s” National Suicide Prevention and Awareness series, host Rose Scott talked with Amanda Krisher, the associate director of behavioral health at the National Council on Aging. Krisher dispelled myths about aging and suicide. She also talked about the importance of listening and asking questions to address the mental health needs of older adults. Plus, data from Moodle and Censuswide shows 66% of employees are experiencing burnout. Scott talks with Georgia Wolfe-Samuel, a longtime CPA, now restaurateur and career burnout prevention specialist. Also part of the conversation, Mayra Richards, the CEO and founder of Remain Connected Counseling. They addressed career burnout and ways to address it. Wolfe-Samuel added her own story about overcoming career burnout, suicidal ideation and using her experiences to help others. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Black Child Development Institute’s work is centered on creating infinite possibilities for Black children, families, and communities. The institute is gearing up for its annual conference on Oct. 24 – 26 in Atlanta. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott talks with Terri-Nichelle Bradley, a conference board member and founder of the Brown Toy Box, about the conference that will include panels, a Toy and Media Awards ceremony and more. Plus, federal cuts to SNAP benefits combined with immigration raids have added to the problem with food insecurity for some in the Latino community. Santiago Marquez, the CEO of the Latin American Association, and Gilda “Gigi” Pedraza, the executive director of the Latino Community Fund of Georgia, discussed the unfolding situation and how their respective institutions are responding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities reveals that suicide is the second leading cause of death for children ages 10 through 14. Suicide is also the third leading cause of death for Georgians between the ages of 15–24. In 2023, at least 249 people under the age of 24 died by suicide in Georgia. For “Closer Look’s” series focusing on National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, host Rose Scott talked with several guests about the impact of suicide on Georgia’s youth and efforts to raise more emotionally resilient kids, teens, and young adults. Guests included: Dr. Chinwé Williams, a nationally recognized licensed therapist and author of the book, "Calm, Courageous, and Connected Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Emotionally Resilient Children Derrick Matthews, the director of research science for The Trevor Project Dr. William Procter, the associate director of counseling services at Morehouse College Marcy Stidum, the assistant vice president of student wellbeing at Kennesaw State University You can reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also reach counselors with The Trevor Project by phone at 1866-488-7386 or by texting 678-678. *** Here are several free or low-cost mental health resources in the Atlanta / Fulton & DeKalb areas. Always call ahead to confirm eligibility, costs, and whether there are waiting lists. *** Hotlines & Statewide Lines (available in Atlanta): Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) — 24/7 crisis, referral, help connecting to local services. Call 1‑800‑715‑4225 Open Path Collective – Atlanta — For a one‑time membership fee ($65), you can access therapy sessions priced $40‑$70 (or $30 for student/intern sessions). NAMI Georgia Helpline — Free support, information, and referrals (non‑crisis). (770) 408‑0625 Mental Health Hotline (Atlanta, GA) — Free, confidential support 24/7: 866‑903‑3787 *** Local Clinics & Sliding Scale / Free Options in Atlanta: Fulton County Adult Behavioral Health Services - Therapy, psychiatric assessment, group counseling, etc. Free or sliding scale for uninsured adults. (For all of Fulton County (including Atlanta) Grady Behavioral Health Center - Sliding scale fees based on income. - (404) 616‑4444 DeKalb Community Service Board (CSB) - Free or sliding-scale mental health services for low-income / uninsured individuals. - 23 Warren Street SE, Atlanta; (404) 370‑7474 Comprehensive Counseling Solutions - Services on sliding scale, or free for those qualifying. - 2636 MLK Jr Drive SW, Atlanta; (770) 933‑6289 Sage Center – STEP Program - Reduced fees (sliding scale) via supervised counseling interns / residents - Based in Atlanta; apply via their “STEP” process Samaritan Counseling (Atlanta) - Sliding fee scale based on income & assets - (404) 228‑7777 NAMI Georgia Helpline - Information, peer support, resource referrals (non‑crisis) - (770) 408‑0625 National Depression Hotline (for Georgia) - Free, confidential help for depression/anxiety - 866‑629‑4564 *** Tips & Additional Options - Universities’ training clinics / psychology programs – Many universities (e.g. Emory, Georgia State) have psychology or counseling training clinics where students provide therapy under supervision, often at reduced cost. (These are often listed under “low cost counseling in GA” overviews) - Faith-based / community organizations – Some churches or nonprofit groups offer free counseling or support groups. Ask around locally. - Sliding scale private therapists – Use directories (e.g. Psychology Today, Open Path) and filter by “sliding scale / low cost” to find individual therapists in your ZIP who accept lower fees. - Use GCAL or NAMI line – These hotlines can often help you find the nearest clinic that fits your income / See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to data on childhood bereavement, one in ten children in Georgia will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the time they turn eighteen. New information also shows one in four children who die by suicide are bereaved. Organizations like Kate's Club works to help young people with the grieving process and their mental health – children, like 14-year-old Caitlin, who suffered the loss of her father, grandmother, and brother. On today’s “Closer Look,” we continue our series for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Joined by her mother, Karen Streetman and Lisa Aman, the executive director of Kate’s Club, Caitlin shares her personal story and how Kate’s Club helped her navigate grief. The controversial, yet temporary, removal of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has sparked a debate about free speech and the reach of the FCC under the Trump Administration. The discussion comes ahead of Journalism Week for Morehouse College. Students, professors, and industry professionals will engage in conversations about media literacy, framing stories, and the responsibility of storytellers in drafting history. Show host Rose Scott is joined by investigative journalist and Morehouse professor Nicole Carr and student journalists Noah Cathey and Elijah Qualls to discuss how the First Amendment is being tested and their approach to journalism at this critical time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.