#MUSEOFRI Digest Podcast

About #MUSEOFRI Digest Podcast

Muse Foundation of Rhode Island Updates, News, Announcements museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

The MUSE Foundation of RI

Category

education · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Oct 2024

Latest episode

6 May 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 May 2026

   #MUSEOFRI - Music & Community Hour (May 2026) ft/ West Wing's own Will West

   Podcast Summary In this episode of the #MUSEOFRI - Music & Community Hour, hosts J’Juan and NYCEHITZ welcome Will West, the founder and CEO of West Wing. The discussion traces Will’s journey from an eight-year-old in South Providence discovering the value of hard work to becoming a “serial entrepreneur” who has launched various businesses, including a barbershop and car wash on Potters Avenue. Will shares the persistence required to build a brand, from operating a successful food trailer on Broad Street to becoming a top vendor at major venues like the Xfinity Center. The episode emphasizes the value of community roots and the resilience needed to overcome business challenges, such as the sudden loss of a lease. Ultimately, Will discusses his strategic decision to focus on West Wing, highlighting his commitment to providing high-quality food and a great atmosphere at his new Pawtucket location. [Intro Music - Hip Hop Beat] NYCEHITZ: You know what we came to do! J’Juan: What up, you know what it is! Nice Hits is in the building! [Song Plays: Upbeat R&B/Hip-Hop track with lyrics about confidence and success] NYCEHITZ: Muse of RI, Music and Community Hour! We here, we here! [Song continues] NYCEHITZ: Yes sir, WBRU 360, 101.1 FM. After a long break, we are back. J’Juan, what’s good? J’Juan: What’s up everybody! Yeah, after a long—had to dig out of all that snow. I’m still digging out of that snow, that’s why we had that long break. NYCEHITZ: Well, this is the Muse of RI Music and Community Hour. J’Juan: Look at him, he still remembers the name after all that time! NYCEHITZ: Yeah, yeah, you know. Everything good with you? J’Juan: Man, everything’s good, man. Just planning for the summer, planning for projects that are coming up. I’m excited with our guest and I’m excited to announce what we’re working on. NYCEHITZ: Bet. Who’s our guest today? J’Juan: So our guest today, I’m going to introduce him as Ill Will, and he’s the owner of West Wings—the best wings in Rhode Island. Just like I say we got the King of R&B over here, but we got the King of Wings in here and Nice is always starting trouble, that’s just me. But nah, Ill Will is in the building. I wanted to talk to him about how we met and just how he got to become such a serial entrepreneur and now just landed on a real great product, real great business, and he opened up the new location. So we’re going to talk about that location and his journey. Introduce yourself. Will West: What’s up everybody, this is Will, Will West. I am the owner, founder, and CEO of the world-famous West Wing, 250 Main Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island. You know, it’s been a journey to say the least just to get to the opening, but we’re here and we got great food and great atmosphere and some real good things happening in that area. J’Juan: Dope, dope. But before you got the brick and mortar, let everybody know the famous trailer that’s everywhere, the famous truck everywhere over there on Broad Street after hours and... what do they call it now? Will West: Xfinity. Yeah, I’m old, I call it Tweeter. It was even something before that too—Great Woods. We were the top vendor for that season. We had lines around the corner, 20,000 people. Willie Nelson show, selling out. We sold out Willie Nelson in like two hours before Willie Nelson even got on, we were sold out of chicken. NYCEHITZ: So yeah, we want to definitely get to the business itself, but let’s talk about your early beginnings in entrepreneurship. Like the first business that you tried. Will West: Whoof. Well, I want to give a lot of credit to my neighborhood, man, because that gave me my entrepreneurial spirit. When I was young, I grew up in South Side, South Providence. I used to see people that had drug addictions in my neighborhood, and there was a couple dudes that used to always rummage through the garbage. Back in the day, they didn’t have the bin for recycling, they just had the little tub. I just wanted to know why they were doing it. I ended up talking to this dude—I forget his name, but big shout out to him—and I was like, “Yo man, why you always in the garbage?” He’s like, “Young blood, I’m gonna get me some money.” He was taking cans up to the recycling thing. He was like, “Come with me.” I had to carry the bag. I was eight years old at the time. I got twenty dollars for that. My own money at age eight. It just sparked something in me. Then, fast forward, 2011, I opened my first official business, which was a barbershop, beauty salon, and car wash on Potters Avenue. J’Juan: Fact. Will West: A lot of people used to ride by that building for years and not even blink at it. I saw the doors open one day and a dude was washing a car in there. I asked if he owned the building; he gave me the owner’s number. I told the owner I’m gonna turn this into a car wash/beauty salon and the owner laughed at me. He was like, “Yeah, give me the money.” Two months later we were open. That building has been a prominent business ever since. It turned into a detailing shop, a car lot. Prior to that, for 20 years, it was nothing. It’s a little sketchy story, the person after me went over my head to the owner because I only had a one-year lease. He was like, “Your lease is up in two months, you gotta go.” We were at our peak. We used to give out mix CDs with every car wash. If you go to a car wash now and you don’t get a mix CD, they are cheating you! NYCEHITZ: (Laughs) Will West: I quickly found a spot on Cranston Street and resumed business. Those were all lessons I had to learn along the way. NYCEHITZ: Great times at them spots. Well, I’m going to pause you there, we’re going to a music break and come back and continue that journey. [Music Break plays] NYCEHITZ: Yes sir, we are back. J’Juan in the building. We’re going to continue Will’s journey, talk about where he’s at now. I wanted to mention this summer, he supported me when I did the Michael S. Van Leesten Bridge sunset party. He stayed there until he sold out. Will West: I’m not leaving! J’Juan: (Laughs) He sold the chicken he brought and the chicken he was supposed to bring! Also, we have the Taste of Juneteenth coming up, so Will’s going to be on board there. I’ve known Will since he was 12 years old. Will West: 12, 12. J’Juan: Back when I was getting into artist management. Will was one of three—you, Soupy, and JB. These boys were nice, way before their time. Will West: Why do you think I just played the Jay-Z song? J’Juan: (Laughs) But right now the focus is on the business. 250 Main Street, Pawtucket. You guys gotta go down there and try the wings. Shout out to your cook. Will West: That was my childhood friend, Soupy. He does his thing. He’s seen the journey from the beginning. There were peaks and valleys. I’ve tried it all—flipped houses, drove trucks, sold nutrition stuff, sold vacuum cleaners. I’m a serial entrepreneur. When I stumbled on the West Wing, it was a strategic play. My man Tikari was on Broad Street with a trailer selling hot dogs. When I came home, he was like, “Bro, I got this trailer.” I just looked at it as a customer. I’d go to spots and they’d try to sell me chimis, hot dogs—everything but wings. I’m like, this is a no-brainer. We’re in the hood and chicken wings—this is almost too easy. I took in all the feedback—”wings are too big,” “not enough lemon pepper”—and just kept tinkering with it. J’Juan: Upcharge for all flats, by the way, right? Will West: To be real, we don’t even do all flats. My distributor sells me a case with flats and drums. If I sell all flats, I have a ton of drums left. We give an even distribution. We aren’t a big chain; even the mom-and-pop stores, I don’t know how they do it. J’Juan: Chicken is chicken, I never understood the flats vs drums thing. Will West: I have people come in and say, “I only want all flats, give me two six-pieces and I’ll take the drumsticks to my girl.” I’m like, how you gonna do her like that? (Laughs). But yeah, May 22nd we’re back on the bridge for the sunset party. Fred the Great, DJ Buck, Mike Rollins. West Wing will be there. NYCEHITZ: Dope. I appreciate the time, Will. Until next month. [Outro Music Plays] Conclusion & Encouragement Will West’s story is a powerful testament to the “hustle,” illustrating that success is built through persistence, listening to your community, and recovering from every setback. Whether you are launching a startup or refining a craft, your experiences are the foundation of your future achievements. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere and even better food, support a local visionary who has worked from the ground up. Visit West Wing today: 📍 250 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI Great food, great atmosphere, and the best wings in the state. Come taste the journey! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

2. 

   3 Nov 2025

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 10.6.25

   Recorded live on Monday, October 6, 2025 at the iconic WBRU360 Studios in Providence, Rhode Island, these episodes of The MUSE Music and Community Hour are hosted by J’Juan (https://www.instagram.com/jjuanthebrand) and Nyce Hitz (https://www.instagram.com/nycehitz). The show features dynamic special guest: * Steve Santos, Community Leader Don’t miss the inspiring conversation now on all streaming platforms. Stay connected for more music and impactful conversations fromThe MUSE Music + Community Hour (http://wbru.museofri.org/)! (http://wbru.museofri.org/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

3. 

   20 Oct 2025

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 5.5.25

   Recorded live on Monday, May 5, 2025 at the iconic WBRU360 Studios in Providence, Rhode Island, this episode of The MUSE Music and Community Hour with tribute discussion during #WomensHistoryMonth 2025 Hosted by J’Juan (https://www.instagram.com/jjuanthebrand) and Nyce Hitz (https://www.instagram.com/nycehitz). The show features dynamic special guest: * Aashari Newman aka Medusa Black, Educator, Emcee, Mother * Jabubu, Emcee, Young Entrepreneur Don’t miss the inspiring conversation now on all streaming platforms. Stay connected for more music and impactful conversations fromThe MUSE Music + Community Hour (http://wbru.museofri.org/)! (http://wbru.museofri.org/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

4. 

   12 Mar 2025

   Cumulus Community ft/ The MUSE Foundation of Rhode Island #MUSEOFRI

   Join us for an engaging conversation with Juan Wilson Jr. (https://juanwilson.com), founder and CEO of the MUSE Foundation of Rhode Island, on this episode of Cumulus Community. Juan shares insights about his journey into philanthropy, the mission behind Muse Foundation, and their innovative approach to demystifying philanthropy in communities of color through events, advocacy, crowdfunding, and more. Learn about their exciting initiatives, including the Taste of Juneteenth New England (http://tasteofjuneteenthne.org), youth empowerment programs like #YESPVD and #TURNUPNE (https://turnupne.com), and how everyone can become a philanthropist regardless of their financial background. Tune in for a discussion filled with inspiration, community impact, and opportunities to get involved. For more information, visit museofri.org (https://museofri.org/) or follow #MUSEOFRI Digest (https://open.substack.com/pub/museofri) Cumulus Community is community focused programming that airs each weekend to our Southern New England audience. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

5. 

   4 Mar 2025

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 3.3.25

   Recorded live on Monday, March 3, 2025 at the iconic WBRU360 Studios in Providence, Rhode Island, this episode of The MUSE Music and Community Hour with tribute discussion during #WomensHistoryMonth 2025 Hosted by J’Juan (https://www.instagram.com/jjuanthebrand) and Nyce Hitz (https://www.instagram.com/nycehitz), the show features a mother and daughter dynamic duo: * Tanisha Spruill-Dennis (https://www.instagram.com/amethyst_214/), Entrepreneur, Yoga Instructor, Author * Saige Dennis, Student, Young Entrepreneur The conversation highlights the importance of black women health and wellness. Don't miss the inspiring coversation now on all streaming platforms. Stay connected for more music and impactful conversations fromThe MUSE Music + Community Hour (http://wbru.museofri.org/)! (http://wbru.museofri.org/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

6. 

   13 Feb 2025

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 2.3.25

   Recorded live on Monday, February 3, 2025 at the iconic WBRU360 Studios in Providence, Rhode Island, this episode of The MUSE Music and Community Hour with powerful discussion about Black Policy Month 2025. Hosted by J’Juan (https://www.instagram.com/jjuanthebrand) and Nyce Hitz (https://www.instagram.com/nycehitz), the show features: * Kyle Bennett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylebennett99/), Chief of Staff, Public Affairs Officer at the United Way of Rhode Island The conversation highlights the importance of policy and initiatives that drive change. Don't miss the inspiring discussion now on all streaming platforms. Stay connected for more music and impactful conversations fromThe MUSE Music + Community Hour (http://wbru.museofri.org/)! (http://wbru.museofri.org/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

7. 

   12 Feb 2025

   Black Policy Month Symposium (Audio)

   Black Policy Month Symposium (Audio) Thank you to everyone who attended and watched 2025 BLACK POLICY MONTH SYMPOSIUM (VIRTUAL) (https://www.facebook.com/events/2288930531486402/?__tn__=-UK-R) #BPMRI (https://www.facebook.com/watch/hashtag/bpmri?__eep__=6%2F&__tn__=*NK-R) '25 today. Here is the recording. Thank you to our panelist: * Nina Harrison (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nina-harrison-38181676/) * Zara Salmon (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-a-salmon-29398a141/) * Rep David Morales (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidcazaresmorales/) And our moderator, Ellijah McLean (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellijah-mclean-a3437612a/) Sincerely,The MUSE Foundation of Rhode Island Here are the links to the bills referenced: CRIMINALS -- CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS -- COMMISSION ON PARDONS - Establishes a commission to promulgate rules, regulations and make recommendations to the governor as to petitions for pardons under Article IX, Section 13 of the Constitution of Rhode Island.H5379 (https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/HouseText25/H5379.pdf) - https://legiscan.com/RI/text/H5379/2025 (https://legiscan.com/RI/text/H5379/2025) FOOD AND DRUGS -- THE RHODE ISLAND CANNABIS ACT - Provides amendments to the cannabis act relating to the definition of a social equity applicant and the required fee to maintain such status as a social equity applicant.H7855 (https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText24/HouseText24/H7855.pdf) - https://legiscan.com/RI/text/H7855/2024 (https://legiscan.com/RI/bill/H7855/2024) House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024 (authorizes The Speaker And The Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian American And Pacific Islander (riblia) Caucus To Request Equity Impact Statements On Up To Five (5) Proposed Bills.)H5010 (https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/HouseText25/H5010.pdf) - https://legiscan.com/RI/text/H5010/2025 (https://legiscan.com/RI/text/H5010/2025) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

8. 

   15 Jan 2025

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 01.06.25

   Recorded live on Monday, January 6, 2025 at the iconic WBRU360 Studios in Providence, Rhode Island, this episode of The MUSE Music and Community Hour kicks off 2025 with powerful discussions and fresh music. Hosted by J’Juan (https://www.instagram.com/jjuanthebrand) and Nyce Hitz (https://www.instagram.com/nycehitz), the show features: * Zara (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-a-salmon-29398a141/), a trailblazer in cannabis policy advocacy, discussing her efforts with the Cannabis Policy Coalition (https://www.cannabispolicycoalition.com/) to bring equity and fairness to Rhode Island's cannabis legislation, particularly during Black Policy Month 2025. * Kunle (https://www.instagram.com/kuntakunle/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet), a Nigerian-American artist from Providence, sharing his journey into music, his creative process, and the debut of his electrifying new single, "HALLS (https://song.link/i/1782158028)." The conversation highlights the intersection of music, community, and policy while celebrating local talent and initiatives that drive change. Don't miss the inspiring discussions and Kunle's latest track, available now on all streaming platforms. Stay connected for more music and impactful conversations from The MUSE Music and Community Hour (http://wbru.museofri.org)! (http://wbru.museofri.org) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

9. 

   6 Dec 2024

   #MUSEOFRI Music + Community Hour 12.2.24

   Recorded at the legendary WBRU360 Studios In Providence, Rhode Island on Monday, December 2, 2024. This latest upload by host J’Juan and Nyce Hitz captures podcast episode featuring interviews with Cam Bells and Jay Lew. The discussion centers on their community involvement and upcoming projects, including Cam's PVD University Arts and Entrepreneurship Summit. Jay Lew discusses his work with AS220 and receiving the Bobby Britto-Oliveira #MUSEOFRI “Pay It Forward” Award. The show intersperses musical interludes and features reflections on the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in the arts. Throughout, the hosts emphasize collaboration and community building within the Providence music scene. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

10. 

    24 Oct 2024

    #MUSEOFRI - Google Deep Dive Ai Podcast Episode 1 ft/ Juan Wilson Jr

    Welcome to The Deep Dive, an Ai generated podcast where we go beyond the headlines to explore the impactful work of leaders like Juan Wilson Jr. Juan is a visionary architect of change in Rhode Island, known for his strategic approach to community empowerment and cultural celebration. From establishing Juneteenth as a paid holiday to launching initiatives like Taste of Juneteenth New England, Juan uses his unique background in entertainment and social advocacy to create lasting, positive change. Tune in as we uncover his journey, his approach to philanthropy, and the inspiring legacy he’s building for future generations. *Factual source material provided by Juan Wilson Jr (http://www.juanwilson.com); Podcast generated with NotebookLM (https://notebooklm.google.com/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit museofri.substack.com (https://museofri.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

Contact #MUSEOFRI Digest Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.