Heart and Soul/Let's go to Church turning three years old

Radio for the People, by A. David Dahmer

"Heart and Soul" and "Let's Go To Church" — radio programs that provide a valuable voice and communication tool for the community — will soon be turning three years old and celebrating in style.
"We are going to be giving away rewards to people who have been on our show whom we've felt have really contributed to our community," says Richard Brown, the executive producer of both programs, in reference to the Heart and Soul/Let's Go To Church Third Anniversary Benefit Dinner and Dance, which will be held Friday, Sept. 19, 6-11 p.m. at the Badger Columbus Club on 5256 Verona Road.
“Heart and Soul” is broadcast Saturday evenings from 6-8 p.m. and “Let's Go To Church” is broadcast Sundays at 7-9 a.m. — both on WTDY 1670 The Pulse of the MidWest Family Broadcasting Family Network.
The "Heart and Soul" show has evolved quite a bit since its humble beginnings three years ago, says Brown, who also serves as host of that show along with Betty Banks.
"When we started, we were more political and wanting to get people more involved in the political process, but as we evolved we realized that we could be a useful asset to the community through outreach and providing information," Brown says. "People often don't know about all of the things that are available to them in Madison and Dane County."   
"Heart and Soul" is a program for the community, providing a venue for issues of concern and current news topics to be raised and discussed, and also to celebrate the accomplishments and strengths of the community.
"It's a show where you can get valuable information whether it be about health, housing, education, politics — information that is important in people's lives," Brown says.
Politicians, poets, community activists, singers, school administrators — people from all walks of life come the show to offer their perspectives, promote programs and resources available throughout the community, or simply to provide entertainment through song, poetry, or spoken word. Intermixed within the conversation between Brown, Banks, the guests, and callers is Brown's favorite music — more often than not something soulful and from the ‘70s.
Whoever is on the show, you can be sure that they are always keeping it positive.
"You can hear plenty of talk shows with people critiquing and criticizing constantly; we stay away from that and try to keep it positive, Brown says. "We're the only type of show of its kind in Madison. We're unique in that we're geared toward the minority communities and that we are positive and upbeat.”
While they do keep it positive, the hosts also freely give out their opinions, which has helped account for some lively radio.
On Sunday mornings, “Let's Go To Church” is a gospel program that features area ministers who come in and give the word and inspirational messages to the community. Pastors David Smith and Ernest Winters are the co-hosts.

Rev. David Smith, co-host

Pastor Ernest Winters, co-host
"It's an opportunity for churches to tell us what they are doing," Brown says, “and for us to talk about church and spirituality-related topics.”
The production of "Heart and Soul" and "Let's Go To Church" are made by possible by dedicated volunteers under the direction of Gaddi Ben Dan, senior executive producer of Club TNT (Today Not Tomorrow). 
"Gaddi and Betty, with all of the great work they do with youth, bring a great aspect to the shows," Brown says.
And Brown has learned quite a bit over a short three years.
"I'm so much more comfortable and confident now," Brown says. "I've learned so much and met so many personalities from higher-ups at the university to just regular folks doing remarkable things. It's been such a positive experience for me.
"People need a voice in the community and the radio programs give people an opportunity to express themselves,” Brown continues. "Some people find it easier to express themselves vocally — there are people who won't write to us, but will call into the show.  And while you can always read, the power of sound and the human voice tends to stick in people's memories.”