Rev. Al and I are thrilled to welcome an extraordinary guest to He’s Holy, I’m Knott: Dr. Jay A. Perman, a nationally recognized leader in education, healthcare, and civic engagement. Currently the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland (USM), he oversees 12 public universities and three regional centers and has spent his career building bridges across institutions, communities, and disciplines.

A pediatric gastroenterologist by training, Dr. Perman has never stepped away from the exam room, continuing to care for young patients even as he took on some of the most influential roles in American higher education. His clinical experience grounds everything he does, keeping people, especially the most vulnerable, at the heart of his leadership.

Before becoming USM Chancellor in 2020, Dr. Perman served as President of the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) for nearly a decade. There, he oversaw record-breaking research growth, expanding UMB’s annual grant funding to nearly $700 million. But his proudest legacy may be his bold commitment to equity and interprofessional education. He established UMB’s Center for Interprofessional Education, now a national model, where students from medicine, nursing, law, pharmacy, dentistry, and social work train side by side to deliver collaborative, community-based care.

Dr. Perman also launched the President’s Clinic, where he personally taught teams of future professionals how to work together to serve patients more holistically. And his founding of the UMB CURE Scholars Program, a STEM pipeline for West Baltimore students starting as early as sixth grade, has opened doors for hundreds of young scholars from underserved communities.

Beyond academia, Dr. Perman is a pillar in Maryland civic life. He chairs the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, co-chairs the UniverCity Partnership, and serves on numerous boards including Baltimore’s Promise, the Greater Baltimore Committee, and the Maryland Life Sciences Advisory Board. His honors are many, including regular recognition among “The Best Doctors in America” and leadership positions with national medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition.

Dr. Perman, thank you for your steadfast dedication to the people of Maryland and beyond. It’s an absolute honor to have you on the show and to share the remarkable legacy you are building.

In this special live-recorded episode, Rev and I take you to the heart of West Baltimore at Avenue Market, a historic space pulsing with possibility. Once a staple of Pennsylvania Avenue’s golden era, the market is now poised for a powerful comeback, and we were there to capture the voices leading that charge.

Set against the backdrop of a changing city, this conversation explores how markets like Avenue are being reimagined not just as places to shop, but as platforms for health, equity, and local power.

We’re joined once again by Abigail Lammel, Communications Manager for Baltimore Public Markets, and David Tyson, Operations Manager, who give us an insider’s view into how public infrastructure and intentional design can lay the groundwork for neighborhood transformation. Their work behind the scenes is shaping not just markets, but futures.

Then we dive deep with Bolon Zahir Xi-Amaru, Director of Health and Food Justice at No Boundaries Coalition, a grassroots organization at the forefront of equity work in Central West Baltimore. Bolon brings truth and urgency, challenging us to think bigger about what public markets can be: sites of healing, hubs of resistance, and cornerstones of economic justice.

Recorded live at Avenue Market, this episode is full of energy, candor, and vision. You’ll hear about the bold plans underway, the challenges of restoring trust, and the collective hope of turning a once-dormant market into a thriving community anchor.

This isn’t just about buildings. It’s about agency. It’s about what happens when neighbors, nonprofits, and city leaders come to the same table.

Avenue Market is rising, and the people are leading the way.

Rev. and I are back with the next stop in our Baltimore Market Series—and this time, it’s the crown jewel of public markets: Lexington Market. After nearly 250 years, this legendary space is stepping boldly into the future, and we were there to soak in the stories, the flavors, and the feeling.

Lexington isn’t just a market—it’s a monument to the city’s soul. And now, thanks to a sweeping reimagining, it’s once again buzzing with life, layered with history, and brimming with promise.

In this episode, we explore how the new Lexington Market is redefining what it means to serve the public. We talk with Abigail Lammel and Jessica Blackwell of the Baltimore Public Markets Corporation—two powerhouse communicators helping shape the vision and voice of this evolving space. They pull back the curtain on how Lexington’s transformation was led not just by design, but by community.

Then, we go straight to the heart of the market: the vendors. You’ll hear from Fatimah Ames of Sweet Peaz Southern Kitchen, whose food is as soulful as her story. April Harper of HarpVision shares how wellness and creativity are part of the market’s fabric. And Ms. Cho from Krause’s reminds us why legacy matters and how family recipes still have a place in the modern marketplace.

This episode is about more than just food—it’s about connection, intention, and the power of place. Lexington Market isn’t trying to be something new. It’s becoming more of what it’s always been: a gathering place for everyone.

Come along as we walk the new Lexington, meet the people shaping its future, and celebrate a space that feels both timeless and totally fresh. Baltimore, this one’s for you. Thank you again to our guests that made this episode so special!

Rev. Al and I are thrilled to introduce Krish Vignarajah, the dynamic President and CEO of Global Refuge.

Krish is a trailblazer whose life and work embody the power of resilience and vision. Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Baltimore, her journey from refugee to global advocate is nothing short of inspiring. At the helm of Global Refuge, Krish leads with a deep commitment to empowering displaced communities worldwide. Her organization works tirelessly to provide resources, advocacy, and sustainable solutions for refugees, ensuring they have the tools to rebuild their lives with dignity.

Before joining Global Refuge, Krish made waves in public service as Policy Director to First Lady Michelle Obama, where she spearheaded initiatives to support education for girls globally. She’s also been a strong voice in policy, law, and philanthropy, constantly finding innovative ways to create positive change.

Rev. Al and I dive into her incredible story—her personal connection to the mission, the challenges and triumphs of leading a global organization, and her vision for the future of refugee support. Krish’s leadership is fueled by a relentless drive to create opportunity and hope for those who need it most.

We’re so grateful to have Krish on "He's Holy, I’m Knott" to share her journey and the remarkable impact of Global Refuge. Thank you, Krish, for your passion, dedication, and for taking the time to join us. This is a conversation you don’t want to miss!

We’re back from hibernation! It’s been a busy stretch, but we’re ready to roll out a series of exciting releases.

We’re thrilled to announce our first stop in what we’re calling the Baltimore Market Series. This project stems from something I worked on nearly ten years ago with Damian O’Doherty, called Market People. At the time, we were frustrated with the state of Baltimore’s public markets and wanted to raise awareness. It worked. The market system has improved significantly, and Hollins Market is on the upswing after a major investment in its infrastructure. So let’s get started.

If you haven’t been to Hollins Market lately, you’re in for a surprise. As the oldest public market in the city, it’s now also one of the freshest. Thanks to a major facelift and the dedication of community partners, Hollins Market has been beautifully restored. From the striking façade to the vibrant energy inside, you can feel the pride radiating from every brick.

We were fortunate to sample food from K’s Chicken and Freshly Seafood. MikksKakes also came through with four incredible cupcakes. Everything was fresh and delicious.

But Hollins Market is more than just a place to grab lunch—it’s a symbol of West Baltimore’s revival. This is a neighborhood with deep roots and big dreams, and Hollins is once again its heartbeat. We spoke with vendors, neighbors, and leaders who are bringing new life to this historic space. From soulful sandwiches and sizzling tacos to fresh produce and handmade goods, there’s something for everyone—and more on the way.

This tour isn’t just about food; it’s about people, and Hollins Market is full of them: resilient, creative, and ready to grow. Big shoutout to the folks at the Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, developers, city leaders, and community members who made this transformation possible.

Join us in a conversation with Abigail Lammel, who’s leading communication efforts system-wide. She knows all the players. First up with her is Ms. Islah, who lives and breathes this neighborhood. She knows everyone at the market, who’s got the best of the best, and she has a wide-open heart for her fellow neighbors. Following her is Mr. Scott, another neighborhood leader who loves the market and understands its impact on these up-and-coming Southwest Baltimore neighborhoods.

We had great conversations that all came down to one theme: people make neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are diverse, energized, and on the rise—you can feel it. Tune in.

Hollins Market proves what’s possible when we invest in our neighborhoods, honor our history, and feed the future. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.

See you at the next stop!

Happy New Year...we begin 2025 with a real winner from the west side, an import from West Virginia and a really good one!

Rev. Al and I are thrilled to spotlight Beau Higginbotham, the dynamic President and CEO of Ascension Saint Agnes, whose leadership and vision have transformed healthcare delivery in West Baltimore City and beyond.

Beau's journey to Ascension Saint Agnes is marked by dedication, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of others. Under his guidance, the hospital has become a beacon of compassionate care and cutting-edge medical advancements. Whether it's overseeing the expansion of critical programs or championing initiatives to address health disparities, Beau is always at the forefront, ensuring that Ascension Saint Agnes serves as a true community partner.

We were lucky to catch Beau amidst his busy schedule, but that's no surprise for someone who leads with such passion and energy. Our conversation dives into his mission to create a holistic approach to healthcare, where patients are treated as individuals, not just diagnoses. Beau’s leadership has also been pivotal in fostering collaborations that bring together healthcare providers, local organizations, and community leaders to tackle pressing health challenges head-on.

Beau, we thank you for your tireless dedication to the people of Baltimore and for joining us on He's Holy, I'm Knott. Your work inspires us all, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you and the incredible team at Ascension Saint Agnes!

Rev and I are so excited to welcome Mike Henderson, the President of ABC, the Associated Builders and Contractors, Baltimore.

But before we dive in we take a moment to recognize Rev Al and the opening of the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center. An amazing redevelopment of the PS103 School where Justice Marshall and many other notable Baltimorean's spent time learning. Now an amazing Amenity Center poised for greatness and change is on the way. Congrats Rev, we are so proud of you.

How about Mike Henderson, a visionary guy who came to the Associated Builders and Contractors of Baltimore over 30 years ago, starting off at the National office and then moving to the Baltimore office which he has headed for 28 years. Under Mike's leadership the creation of the MCCEI was possible as the industry was looking for ways to building solid pathways for students trying to enter the trades. He has overseen the expasion of the ABC Apprenticeship Program, now graduating men and women of all ages. Recently they moved to the East Side of Baltimore City another bold move for ABC, made possible by Mike's vision. We talk workforce, skills, and the many stories of sucess for young Apprentice's and the opportunitties that abound in the Built Environment.

Jump into this one and learn about the great things that are happening and at the ABC, and get a closer look at their leader Mike Henderson.

Thanks Mike for your vision and committment to our industry and for taking the time to join us on He's Holy & I'm Knott.

Rev. Al and I are excited to end the Vegas Series with the man whose vision makes all of this possible, Mr. Howard Perlow.

We were lucky to catch him as Howard is always busy attending to the needs of every person that shows up for the Maryland Party at the ICSC. He's created a monster. In the 3rd week of May every year for at least the last 20 years you can find the entire Maryland real estate industry and all of their vendors gathered around him at the Wynn.

If there's anyone that could fill 30 minutes with interesting cool stuff it's Howard Perlow. He's no stranger to He's Holy, I'm Knott and we are so happy to have him back. We really appreciate that he see's the value in our interviewing folks that come to Vegas for the ICSC Maryland Party.

The discussion is short and sweet...we get a little history lesson on the Maryland Party and he fills us in on all things ISCS. He and his team are amazing and they are working hard on behalf of all Marylander's for the week that we spend there every year.

Perlow's leadership is essential in gathering this group together. It's a tribute to this hard working Lancer, who has been community-minded since he was a young man.

Howard, thank you and your team for allowing us to promote your baby by telling this great story. We are looking forward to next year and the warm weather in Las Vegas for the Maryland Party 2025.

See everyone at the Wynn!