The socioeconomic, educational, racial, and ethnic backgrounds of Erie’s citizens have never been as wonderfully diverse as they are today.
In order to paint a holistic picture of the plight, hopes, and dreams of Erie, NEXT seeks to spotlight and analyze issues that affect inner-city Erie from the perspective of its next generation of voices – voices of those who are taking the lead on various aspects of the community. As it was during the days of the iconic Dr. King, the winds of change are often reflected in the actions and words of a younger and more idealistic age group.
Fathers, Legacy and Unanswered Questions: Donald Middleton & the Nolan Xavier Wells Case
This special dual episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson explores two powerful stories centered on family, legacy and the search for understanding.
In the first half, Marcus sits down with Donald Middleton, author of the Conversations with My Dad book series and the newest addition to the BlaXcess Media network with a podcast bearing the same name. Donald discusses the wisdom, memories and life lessons passed down through conversations with his father—and how preserving those stories can strengthen families across generations.
In the second half, Marc Blount of Blount Conversations joins Marcus for a serious discussion about the disappearance and death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells. Together, they examine the known timeline, the conflicting accounts and the lingering questions surrounding the case, while separating verified facts from online speculation.
From the conversations that shape a life to the questions a grieving family still needs answered, this episode reminds us why stories, truth and legacy matter.
NEXT airs on BlaXcess Media, 92.7 FM WICU-HD2, with an expanded hour-long broadcast on WQLN NPR on the fourth Sunday of every month.
22 May 2026
Speaking Truth to Power with Deonte Cooley
NEXT with Marcus Atkinson returns with a powerful community-centered conversation featuring activist, organizer, and media voice Deonte Cooley. From speaking passionately at Erie City and County Council meetings to organizing impactful community forums, Deonte has become one of the region’s most outspoken advocates for accountability and change.
This episode also provides an update on the Marchello Woodard case, explores the state of activism in Erie, and introduces Deonte’s new BlaXcess Media program, The Social Impact. Expect honest dialogue, strong opinions, and a conversation rooted in culture, community, and change.
22 May 2026
GECAC and the Fight Against Poverty: Local Mission, National Impact
On this episode of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson, Marcus sits down with Ben Wilson, CEO of GECAC, to explore how one of Erie County’s most important human service agencies is connected to a much larger national movement.
From senior services and workforce development to housing support, education, utility assistance, and community partnerships, GECAC’s work reaches thousands of residents every year. But this conversation goes beyond programs. It looks at the Community Action network across America, the continued fight against poverty, and why local leadership matters when families, seniors, workers, and neighborhoods are facing real economic pressure.
This is a conversation about dignity, data, service, and the power of community action, right here in Erie.
Who has been a guest on NEXT with Marcus Atkinson
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Anthony McGowan
Paul Flemmings
Dr Baker
Rock Copeland
Jennie Hagerty
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 37 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
62
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Host of NEXT with Marcus Atkinson?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
