TV - Jasmine Cooper

On The Block

Please click on the following links to see the shows I produced so far "On The Block" and several community affairs programming for Weigel Broadcasting.

20th December 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Perlla Deluca

Host George Blaise is joined by Perlla Deluca, President of Southeast Constructors, Co-Founder of the Iowa School of Construction, and Founder of The Pink Hardhat Foundation. The pair discuss her journey from Brazil to industry leadership, the Iowa School of Construction’s mission to empower veterans, women, and career changers, and how technology and AI are shaping new opportunities in the trades.

13th December 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | James W. Johnson

Host George Blaise is joined by James W. Johnson, Executive Director of Make Santa Fe. The pair discuss how this dynamic makerspace is transforming ideas into action, helping New Mexicans unleash creativity, launch businesses, and strengthen their community.

WCIU, The U • 6th December 2025

WINGS

Host George Blaise is joined by Rebecca Darr, President & CEO of WINGS Program, Inc. The pair discuss WINGS’ mission to end domestic violence through housing, support services, and advocacy, and highlight its programs and partnerships that help survivors build safe, independent futures.

6th December 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Evelyn K. Davis Center

Host George Blaise is joined by Robert Bibens, Opportunity Passport & Youth Program Coordinator with DMACC’s Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families, and Twyla Woods-Buford, a Career Coach. The group discuss how the center, located in Des Moines, delivers education, job training, and career services to unemployed, under-employed and underserved residents of Central Iowa.

22nd November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Angela Cupp

Host George Blaise is joined by Angela Cupp, Executive Director of Talent Acquisition at UnityPoint Health, to discuss the changing healthcare landscape and the growing demand for skilled professionals. From virtual telehealth to entry-level opportunities and career development programs, Angela explains how UnityPoint Health is creating a flexible, supportive workforce across central Iowa and beyond.

15th November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Clayton Boeyink

Host George Blaise is joined by Clayton Boeyink, Family Services Manager at Lutheran Services in Iowa. The pair discuss LSI’s mission to empower immigrants and refugees by helping them overcome barriers such as language and child care, and connect with resources to find meaningful employment in Central Iowa.

8th November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Marie Longserre

Host George Blaise is joined by Marie Longserre, President & CEO of the Santa Fe Business Incubator, to talk about how SFBI supports entrepreneurs across New Mexico in turning their ideas into reality. They discuss the unique aspects of New Mexico’s start-up landscape, the application process for joining SFBI and what participants can expect as they move through the program.

8th November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Reach Higher New Mexico

Host George Blaise is joined by Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department Stephanie Rodriguez, and Deputy Cabinet Secretary Dr. Patricia Trujillo. The group discuss how the Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships give New Mexicans options to pursue college and career training without worrying about the cost of tuition and fees.

8th November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Scott Johnson

Host George Blaise is joined by Scott Johnson, Executive Director of the Iowa FFA Association. The pair discuss how the organization is preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders across the state. They cover everything from hands-on training and popular careers to new ag-tech jobs and chances for people switching careers.

1st November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Jeff Witte

Host George Blaise is joined by Jeff Witte, Director/Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, for a deep dive into the career opportunities shaping the future of New Mexico. From agricultural education and hands-on training to rural economic development, they discuss how NMDA is building strong career pathways across the state.

1st November 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Patrick Gannon

Host George Blaise is joined by Patrick Gannon, JTIP Program Manager at the New Mexico Economic Development Department, to discuss how the state is investing in its workforce. Patrick explains how the JTIP helps businesses cover training costs, supports growing industries, and connects New Mexicans to quality jobs with real career paths.

25th October 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Crystal Hicks

Host George Blaise is joined by Crystal Hicks, Business Outreach Coordinator for the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. They dive into how NMDVR supports New Mexicans with disabilities—from overcoming job search challenges to preparing for interviews and finding meaningful work. Crystal also shares tips for employers on building inclusive teams and how anyone can connect with NMDVR’s resources to take the next step in their career journey.

18th October 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Lisa Brewer

Host George Blaise is joined by Santa Fe based Leadership & Wellness Coach Lisa Brewer. The pair discuss practical strategies for New Mexicans to build confidence, improve health, and increase productivity- both at work and in everyday life. Lisa also explains how to thrive holistically and shares tips to help empower New Mexicans to advance in their careers without compromising their personal well-being.

11th October 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Eric Kress

Host George Blaise is joined by Eric Kress, Executive Director of the Central Iowa Workforce Development Board. They discuss the rise of skills-based hiring, new approaches to job training, and how CIWDB is helping connect job seekers to real opportunities across the region — all while preparing for the future of work.

4th October 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Sesha Lee

Host George Blaise is joined by Sesha Lee, Chief Services Officer at Goodwill Industries of New Mexico. The pair discusses how Goodwill is transforming lives across the state through job training, GoodSkills programs, and specialized support for veterans and individuals reentering the workforce.

4th October 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Julia Franklin

Host George Blaise is joined by Julia Franklin, Executive Director of Mainframe Studios, based in Des Moines. The pair discuss how organization’s affordable studio space and business resources help Iowa artists build sustainable careers. Julia also shares practical advice for aspiring creatives looking to launch or grow their careers.

27th September 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Brian Rashap

Host George Blaise is joined by Dr. Brian Rashap of Central New Mexico Community College. They discuss CNM Ingenuity’s Quantum Technician and IoT Bootcamps which are fast-track programs that prepare students for high-demand tech careers. The pair explore hands-on learning, career pathways, and how CNM is building a skilled, homegrown workforce to support New Mexico’s growing role in the national tech landscape.

27th September 2025

Weigel Broadcasting Co. | Julie Fugenschuh

Host George Blaise is joined by Executive Director of Project Iowa, Julie Fugenschuh. The pair discuss the Des Moines based organization’s mission to create pathways to meaningful employment across the state. Julie shares how Project Iowa’s innovative job training programs are helping Iowans transition into livable wage careers—and why workforce development is more critical than ever.

WCIU, The U • 20th December 2024

Chef Lamar Moore Brings Southern Cuisine to South Loop

Moore is part-owner of the new restaurant, etc., which takes over the former Terra e Mare that closed in September. He sat down with ‘On The Block’ to discuss his new venture and the difficulties of being Black in the food industry.

WCIU, The U • 20th December 2024

The History and Legacy of 14 Iconic Watering Holes

Block Club went deep — like, really deep — into the history of some of the city’s most beloved and historic dive bars. Block Club’s Linze Rice joined ‘On The Block’ to highlight some of her favorites.

WCIU, The U • 20th December 2024

Andersonville Exotic Animal Rescue Needs Fosters, Volunteers

The group is at capacity after saving 77 animals this year, including two dozen finches dumped in an Uptown alley. Block Club’s Madison Savedra shares how you can help.

WCIU, The U • 13th December 2024

Ultimate Guide to Shopping Local for the Holidays

Block Club’s reporters rounded up hundreds of gift ideas from local businesses across the city. Co-founder Jen Sabella stopped by to share some of their favorites.

WCIU, The U • 12th December 2024

FULL INTERVIEW: CTU President Stacy Davis Gates

Contract negotiations are heating up between the city and the Chicago Teachers Union, led by CTU president Stacy Davis Gates. She joins On The Block to share the latest details.

WCIU, The U • 22nd November 2024

Food Inequities Continue on Chicago's South & West Sides

Over the last 2 years, at least 6 grocery stores have closed on Chicago’s South and West sides, making it hard for residents of neighborhoods like Englewood to access fresh and affordable groceries. According to the US Department of Agriculture, more than 63% of West Englewood residents live more than half a mile from the nearest grocery store. It's an issue Block Club's Atavia Reed has covered this topic extensively across the South side. She and Anton Seals Jr. of Grow Greater Englewood joined us to chat about it.

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More stories from On The Block

WCIU, The U • 7th December 2023

Rosemont Lights Up with the 'Sparkle Light Festival'

To light up your holiday cheer, Rosemont's 'Sparkle Light Festival' has arrived to do just that. 'On The Block' Producer Jasmine Cooper has all the details.

WCIU, The U • 30th November 2023

Harry Potter Magic At Play

Wands at the ready! There's a brand new and interactive experience in downtown Chicago for wizards and witches of all ages. We take a trip to the magical wizarding world of Hogwarts for this enchanting Newsroom Favorite.

CW26 • 26th October 2023

Celebrating 150 Years of the Chicago Public Library

The Chicago Public Library is one of the city's oldest institutions, and after 150 years, it still has exciting changes ahead. Host Brandon Pope took a trip to the Loop's Harold Washington branch to explore how CPL stays relevant to modern community needs.

Check out the Library's podcast by clicking here.

CW26 • 12th October 2023

Water Taxi Back On Chicago River Since Pandemic

Shut down during the pandemic, the Chicago Water Taxi has returned to the river as commuters slowly make their way back to the office. Block Club Chicago's Mack Liederman hitched a ride.

Check out the full article here.

CW26 • 12th October 2023

Activists Demand Work Permits For All Immigrants

Immigration advocates want the feds to help longtime undocumented immigrants access work permits as they expand opportunities for newly arrived migrants. Block Club Chicago's Madison Savedra chatted with Brandon Pope about their demands.

Click here to read the full article.

CW26 • 28th September 2023

Clayton Harris III, Running for State's Attorney

Clayton Harris III is a lifelong Democrat running to bring safety and justice to Cook County as our next State's Attorney for March 2024.

CW26 • 28th September 2023

The Voice Of The CTA

It’s been 25 years since a Milwaukee man strolled into a Chicago studio to record the thousands of directions, delays and warnings that still move the nation’s third-largest city. Lee Crooks, “The Voice of the CTA” who tells “L” and bus riders what stop is coming and on which side the doors open, doesn’t have much to say about the fact that most people still don’t know the name behind the recordings.

CW26 • 14th September 2023

White Sox Hat and Hip Hop Culture

"Fitted In Black" a White Sox documentary based on how the White Sox Hat influences and holds strong ties to hip hop, culture, and more. Sports writer, Shakeia Taylor, Deputy Senior Content Editor at the Chicago Tribune, expands on how she connected the famous White Sox logo to various parts of music, fashion, and Chicago.

CW26 • 31st August 2023

'On The Block': Episode 229

When Chicago first started housing migrants in police stations as emergency overflow shelters over the winter, officials expected it’d be a temporary solution. But nine months later, men, women and children are still sleeping on police station floors in what volunteers have called “inhumane” conditions. Plus, the final credits have rolled at The New 400 Theaters, the oldest-running movie house in the city.

CW26 • 17th August 2023

Chicago Accessibility Issues

Chicago is generally considered to be a very accessible city, but for people with a disability, it’s not that easy to get around. Dr. Yochai Eisenberg is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Disability and Human Development at the University of Illinois at Chicago and affiliated researcher at the Great Lakes ADA Center, and he joins us to explain why. Justin Cooper, disability advocate will also join us to talk about what he has experienced first-hand.

CW26 • 3rd August 2023

Red Clay Dance Company Amplifies Voices Of The African Diaspora

African dance has come to Englewood thanks to the Red Clay Dance Company. It's a place where the arts are more than just freedom of expression. Brandon Pope caught up with the founder to learn about the programs and why activism is the drumbeat behind them.

CW26 • 20th July 2023

The History of Lower Wacker Drive

Lower Wacker Drive, where a leisurely Uber trip goes to die. It's a concrete jungle and a Chicago cultural icon. So how did this underground passageway come to be? Jon Hansen chatted with Northwestern professor and Chicago roadway expert Bill Savage.

CW26 • 20th July 2023

'On The Block': Episode 225

After nearly 20 years, a popular Hyde Park festival is calling it quits. We chat with Silver Room Block Party founder Eric Williams about the legacy it leaves behind. We hit the road to learn about the history of one of Chicago’s most iconic and confusing streets. Guests interviewed include Northwestern professor Bill Savage. Plus, the dance teacher using movement to share African history with her class. Guests interviewed include choreographer Vershawn Sanders-Ward. Additional news stories covered include Metra’s UP North rebuild, 606 Trail extension, Trangender representation in media.

CW26 • 29th June 2023

Illinois Stock Car History

We interview Wayne Lensing, director of the Historic Auto Attractions Museum, about the history of stock cars in IL and NASCAR races that were held at Soldier Field.

CW26 • 29th June 2023

'On The Block': Episode 223

The casino operator is still waiting for its gaming license, but they plan to open the River North gaming hall by the end of the summer. Plus, we head to Sim Racing in Algonquin to test out their racing simulators and learn how drivers use them to practice tough courses ahead of races.

WCIU, The U • 15th June 2023

Malibu Barbie Cafe Pop-Up

Mattel and Bucket Listers have teamed up to launch pop-up cafes in Chicago and New York City so people can dine like a doll in life-size fashion. The pop-up at 324 S. Racine Ave. in the West Loop will run June 7-Sept. 15.

CW26 • 15th June 2023

‘Public’ Search For Chicago’s Next Top Cop

The interim commission — led by seven Chicagoans picked by Mayor Lori Lightfoot — has 120 days from Brown’s March resignation to conduct a nationwide search, said its president, Anthony Driver. The commission will select three finalists by July 14 to present to Mayor Brandon Johnson, who can make a pick or throw out the list and ask for a new one, Driver said.

CW26 • 15th June 2023

Engine 21

The story of Engine 21 holds a special place in Chicago's history as a symbol of progress and resilience. Brandon Pope shares how their dedication and bravery paved the way for greater opportunities and advancements for Black firefighters.

CW26 • 15th June 2023

Polished Pebbles

Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program supports mentoring opportunities for local Black and Latinx girls. Founder and Executive Director, Kelly Fair, shares more about how the group teaches Black and Latinx girls 7-17 years old communication skills for home, school and careers.

CW26 • 15th June 2023

'On The Block': Episode 221

Migrants and volunteers said food is scarce, access to clothing and medical help is extremely limited. Plus, Chicago church leaders say developing a more inclusive community attracts more parishioners and helps LGBTQ+ people heal from trauma.

CW26 • 25th May 2023

'On The Block': Episode 219

Plans for a thriving South Side, we talk with Ald. Nicole Lee, the first Chinese-American to represent the 11th Ward. Plus, After School Matters and the opportunities for teens this summer.

CW26 • 11th May 2023

'On The Block': Episode 217

Community organizations across Chicago need more supplies and helping hands to provide the latest wave of migrants with basic needs, medical care and legal help. Plus, Avery R. Young, Chicago’s first poet laureate, wants to create more opportunities for Chicagoans to get involved in the arts.

CW26 • 27th April 2023

'On The Block': Episode 215

Foxx has been backed by progressive activists who saw her leadership as a turning point for the prosecutor's office. But she's also faced intense criticism as crime has surged in Chicago. The I AM ABEL FOUNDATION helps Chicago kids get in STEM careers in medicine by providing mentorships. Plus, Heartland Alliance, a social services nonprofit that manages the affordable and LGBTQ-friendly senior living facility, said the security guards were removed amid quadrupling service costs.

CW26 • 13th April 2023

'On The Block': Episode 213

Officials promised to feature Chicago small businesses and use local workers for the 2024 convention, which is expected to be a $150 million economic boon for the city. Plus, residents can get an updated look at what the city has in mind for Pilsen’s largest vacant lot after months of community meetings and surveys.

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