On October 26, 2023, Tracy Parsons of the Equity and Engagement Department co-hosted News, Brews, and Beatz hosted by the Illinois Public Media. This installment discussed the health, wealth, and challenges of black owned businesses in Central Illinois. Special guests Matthew J. Simpson, of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Tricia D. Teague, founder of the Soar Space Business Center were also in attendance to advance conversations around this topic.