New England Weekend: Recent Episodes
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WBZ’s Nichole Davis shares the stories people are talking about in your community each weekend on iHeart Boston stations: WBZ, WRKO, Talk 1200, WZLX, Kiss 108 and WBWL!
In a world where living your entire life online seems to be the norm, a mother and daughter from Needham are challenging the status quo with their analog approach to mental health. Teri and Ella Macduff are on a mission to encourage authenticity and self-reflection through their organization, "Chasing Red Flags". This week, they talk with Nichole about their journey to create a special journal that's helping people all over the country slow down and develop a deeper connection with themselves. Learn more at chasingredflags.com.
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For more than 40 years, Congregation Shirat HaYam on Nantucket has been without a permanent home, holding services and events in spaces all over the island. That's about to change. They're taking a major step forward with the purchase of an historic property, the former Surfside Life Saving Station, and the vision is clear: it won't just be a synagogue, but a vibrant center for Jewish life on the island. David Gregory and Chuck Shoneman join Nichole on the show this week to talk about the progress they've made so far on the project, and share information on how you can help see it through.
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New Bedford's rich maritime history and expertise will be on display on August 13th as the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center hosts Scallopalooza! Not only will dozens of local fishermen take part in a scallop shucking contest, the event will also give you a glimpse into the equipment and technology they use to harvest the seafood we love to enjoy this time of year. Joe Ritter, Programs Manager at the Fishing Heritage Center, talks with Nichole this week about the center's mission and the plans for this upcoming event.
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While Massachusetts, and New England as a whole, are often looked at as leaders in renewable energy and overall sustainability, there are still some roadblocks for business owners who want to make pledges to hit certain climate goals. Rising costs and changes in policy are making it increasingly difficult for all but the largest companies to make a meaningful commitment. James Boyle, the CEO and Founder of Sustainability Roundtable, Inc., joins Nichole this week for an in-depth conversation in which he shares insight about the state of the sustainability movement and advice for business owners looking to make these commitments.
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There's a growing group of collectors around the country who are fascinated with the smallest of items that can tell some big stories: a button, a pin, a poster. We're talking about political memorabilia, and enthusiasts from all over the country who are part of the American Political Items Collectors are coming to Danvers later this month for their National Convention. President Tony Lee takes a deep dive into the world of political ephemera on this week's episode with Nichole, and shares details about how you can stop by to get involved!
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You might be hearing the word "cyclospora" a lot more lately as the number of cases in this nationwide parasite outbreak continues to rise. There are lots of questions about how this is impacting us here in New England, from how it's impacting our produce to the symptoms those infected might be dealing with. This week, Nichole talks with Dr. Zoe Weiss, the director of Clinical Microbiology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, to learn how significant our risk really is and get educated about this tiny parasite that's causing some big problems.
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After more than three decades in New York City, the Museum of American Finance has made its way to Boston's Seaport District. At the new home on Commonwealth Pier, the museum is showcasing a treasure trove of educational programs and special artifacts, like George Washington's treasury bonds and a share certificate from the Boston Red Sox! Nichole's joined by David Cowen, President and CEO of the Museum of American Finance, to talk about the story of the museum's move from New York, and its plans to make the world of finance accessible to everyone here in Boston and beyond.
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Summertime is here, and it's the perfect time to enjoy both good food and some time in nature! Someone who knows quite a bit about both of those things is Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants, who also leads walks and hikes for the Appalachian Mountain Club around New England. He returns to the show this week to talk with Nichole about hiking safety, some of his new recommended hiking destinations, restaurant openings and closings in Greater Boston, and his thoughts on the overall industry.
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The American Ancestors "Family Heritage Experience" in Boston's Back Bay has joined the Blue Star Museums program, which offers military families free admission to museums and other cultural institutions over the summer. Jennifer Zanolli, the manager of the Family Heritage Experience, talks with Nichole on this week's episode about this new partnership and how it uniquely offers military families a chance to explore their family history, including learning about past relatives who served, in a meaningful, hands-on visit.
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Social media has proven to be a boon for history lovers, as people all over the world generate content about their pastimes, families, neighborhoods, and much more. Derek Strahan of Longmeadow is the man behind the "Lost New England" and "Gravestones of New England" accounts on Instagram and Facebook, two accounts which have garnered big followings of people who can't get enough of the posts on places they've known and loved through the years. Derek talks with Nichole this week about why it's important to share the content he's found, how he pulls it all together, and how you can help him keep it going.
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The Community Music Center of Boston has been working around the city for decades to provide music therapy, music education, creative programming, and much more to people of all ages. This year, they're celebrating a major anniversary and getting ready for a big move, too! Chief Advancement Officer Zachary Sheets and Rachel Chao, Director of Programming and Community Engagement, talk with Nichole about the Center's mission and efforts, explain the benefits of music therapy, and share details about their upcoming transition into Roxbury's Nubian Square.
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Local pride will be on full display July 19th at Malibu Beach in Dorchester, as teams from nine Boston neighborhoods will compete to win the Hoodlympics! Organized by Black Brown Boston, this event brings together people from all over the Hub for friendly competition in field-day style games like Foam Dodgeball, Steal the Bacon and Tug of War. The winning team gets bragging rights, but a fun day is promised for all who show up. Vania Arroyo, Founder of Black Brown Boston, joins Nichole this week to share the details of this upcoming event.
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Vacant lots all around the city of Boston are getting some new life, thanks to the Boston Food Forest Coalition. Residents, community groups, permaculture advocates, and many others from around the Hub are coming together to revamp these open spaces, turning them into community "food forests" where anyone can come and have a bite of berries, fruits, veggies, and much more. Orion Kriegman, Founding Executive Director of the Boston Food Forest Coalition, talks with Nichole this week about how a food forest is created, why they're important, and how you can get involved.
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June is Men's Health Month, and over at the Whittier Street Health Center in Roxbury, men and boys will get all the help they need to get on a healthy track at the upcoming Men's Health Summit on June 27th! From screenings to informative panels, the focus will be on men and boys of all ages, giving them the resources and tools they need to live healthier, happier, stronger lives. Frederica M. Williams, CEO of Whittier Street Health Center, talks with Nichole about the history of the summit, the state of healthcare equity in Boston, and what visitors to the summit can expect.
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Boston's Roxbury neighborhood once thrived as a center of Black entrepreneurship through systemic struggles, and for decades, it was known as its own “Black Wall Street.” The stories of the neighborhood are being given new life in a documentary called "The Way We Were", showcasing oral histories of Roxbury's Black business owners and families that made the neighborhood so successful. It's all part of a greater research and storytelling effort that's being led by Marie Firmin, CEO of Black Biz Dev. She joins the show this week to share details about the documentary and an upcoming event on Martha's Vineyard, along with Crystal Christmas-Thompson, who was interviewed for the film.
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There's more interest in train travel these days, thanks to higher gas prices, but the efforts to expand access to passenger rail around the Commonwealth have been going on for many years now. Several improvement and expansion projects are already underway through MassDOT's "Compass Rail" initiative, with a significant focus on Central and Western Massachusetts. Meredith Slesinger, MassDOT's Rail and Transit Administrator, joins Nichole to talk about their expansion efforts and the benefits of access to passenger rail services.
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Over the years, the Boston Public Library has had all kinds of designs for their cards, but now, they're looking to add a few more. These designs, however, will be coming directly from the public. The BPL is running a contest, asking patrons to submit art that showcases what "Free to All", the mission of the Library, means to you. Bailey Watroba, Senior Public Relations Associate at the BPL, returns to the show with details on this contest, which is underway through June 15.
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When you make your way to Boston and stop by the 1965 Freedom Plaza, near the Embrace statue, you'll find dozens of names etched in the tiles. Those names honor icons in Boston's history who may not be as well known, including Harry Hom Dow. He was known for breaking barriers in the legal world and through his civic life, and it was because of that work that Embrace Boston and Everyone250 chose to name this year's "Embrace Honors" after him. Nichole talks with one of the honorees, Suzanne Lee, President Emeritus of the Chinese Progressive Association, along with Embrace Boston's President and CEO, Imari Paris Jeffries.
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For years, Merrimack Valley residents haven't been able to go to LeLacheur Field in Lowell and cheer on their beloved Spinners, as the team folded during the MLB's restructuring of the minor league system. That's all about to change, as the team's under new ownership and in a new league. What won't be changing is the family fun, food, and everything else that makes up the Lowell Spinners experience. Opening Day is May 29th, and this weekend, Nichole talks with Principal Owner/CBO Marc Deschenes and Chairman/CEO John Croteau to learn about what they have in store.
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Here in Massachusetts, members of the team at Samaritans Southcoast in Westport are often the ones you connect with when you call, text, or chat the 988 Lifeline. They recently secured a major contract from the state to provide those services for not just southeastern Massachusetts, but the entire Commonwealth 24/7 by the end of the year! It's a challenge Executive Director Darcy Lee says they're ready for. She talks with Nichole about how they're preparing for this new responsibility.
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Looking for a new car? Get ready to pay up. We're seeing record high prices for new vehicles around the country, including here in New England. It's rare to find one that comes in under $30,000, with more luxury vehicles, SUV's, and pickup trucks on the lots than affordable sedans. Why the change, especially when so many Americans are struggling to get by? Nichole spoke with John Marthinsen, Professor of Economics and International Business at Babson College in Wellesley, to get insight and answers.
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Sometimes, for those living paycheck to paycheck, just a couple extra hundred dollars a month can make a major difference when it comes to quality of life and staying afloat. The city of Salem teamed up with UpTogether and Salem State University to run an experiment: what would happen if dozens of lower-income residents and families received an extra $500 each month for a year, no questions asked? Early analysis shows encouraging results. Mayor Domenic Pangallo and Professor Thomas Piñeros Shields from the North Shore Policy Lab join the show this week to share what they learned.
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Since 1920, when it opened up as a three-room settlement house on Wall Street in Worcester, Friendly House's mission has stayed the same: do everything they can, in any way they can, to ensure residents have the resources they need to not just get by, but thrive. In many ways, the need for Friendly House and its programs is more dire than ever, and the team is ready to help. Executive Director Trish Appert and Director of Social Services Josefina Velez join Nichole on the show this week to tell their century-old story of community service and detail the programs they have available for those in need.
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It takes just seconds for a dog to escape - an accidentally unlocked door, a slightly-too-loose harness - and it can be absolutely devastating when you realize your beloved pet is gone. Hundreds of volunteers at Missing Dogs Massachusetts are ready and waiting to help, with flyers for social media, trapping services, and much more, all at no cost. Kris Ericson, President of Missing Dogs Massachusetts, talks with Nichole about their work and why it's so important for these volunteers to ensure as many pups as possible return home to their family.
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Prices at the supermarket, gas pump, and on your energy bill are only going up by the day, and a lot of people around New England are starting to feel the pinch. Food insecurity in Massachusetts is reaching levels we haven't seen in a long time, if ever. To get a better idea of just how much assistance is needed, the Greater Boston Food Bank teamed up with Mass General Brigham to put together a comprehensive report, complete with suggestions on what needs to be done to turn this trend around. Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of the Greater Boston Food Bank, returns to the show to break down the report's findings with Nichole.
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High-speed internet is critical for work, school, shopping, and many other ways we engage in everyday life. While most Massachusetts residents utilize broadband internet connections each and every day, there are still thousands of people who don't have access, both in rural and urban areas. New federal funding is giving Massachusetts the boost it needs to lay the groundwork to get everyone connected. Michael Baldino, the Director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech in Westborough, talks with Nichole about the state's efforts to get everyone online and how this new federal funding will help.
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For decades, the METCO program has helped to connect students from Boston with their counterparts at schools around Greater Boston, working to bridge the gap of educational inequity. It's a program that grew out of the push to de-segregate Boston schools during the height of the civil rights movement, and all these years later, it's still breaking barriers by opening minds and opportunities in more than 30 communities. Dr. Kandice Sumner, President and CEO of METCO (who's also an alum!) joins Nichole this week to reflect on the program's successes over the past 60 years and share details about the upcoming Opportunity Ball on May 1.
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It's been months since Jamaica was devastated by Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms that's ever been recorded in the Atlantic basin. The cleanup and rebuild is expected to take years, if not decades, but as the storm made its way out of the headlines, the much-needed assistance started to dwindle, too. JAM'N 94.5's DJ Pup Dawg is celebrating 25 years in the industry by pulling together reggae icons at Big Night Live on May 7th, and it won't just be any party - he's rallying the community to send some big love and assistance down to Jamaica! Pup joins Nichole to talk about his big anniversary and share details about the upcoming event.
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If you've ever driven around on a damp, spring night here in New England, you've probably seen some little animals on the move trying to cross the road in front of you. For turtles, salamanders, frogs and other like creatures, this is a crucial migration, because it's tied to breeding, feeding, and survival. Unfortunately, it can often be deadly, but a new program in New Hampshire is trying to help, with the installation of new tunnels and wildlife crossings to keep these animals safe. Sandi Houghton, a Wildlife Diversity Biologist with NH Fish and Game, joins Nichole and Brett Amy Thelen, the Science Director at the Harris Center for Conservation Education in Hancock, NH, for more on this story.
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Not all of us can be a meteorologist, but any of us can help them ensure their severe weather warnings and forecasts are as accurate as possible. While the forecasters have a lot of tools available at their disposal, there's nothing quite like eyes on the ground, and that's where you come in. Hundreds of thousands of people around the country are trained as part of the SKYWARN Spotter Network, and local classes are starting soon if you want to get involved. National Weather Service Boston's Lead Meteorologist, Bryce Williams, shares details with Nichole in this week's episode.
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Over the past quarter-century, the state of healthcare has changed dramatically, with new cures and treatments becoming available for conditions that have been around for far longer. While there's no cure yet for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a lot of progress has been made when it comes to research and support, and much of that progress is thanks to the Jett Foundation of Norwell. Eric Snyder, President and CEO, and Maura Carroll, the Director of Development, talk with Nichole about the Foundation's storied history, their efforts, and their upcoming event to celebrate their 25th year.
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Despite the recent snow, spring is here in Massachusetts, and it's a perfect time to get out and explore all the beautiful parks Greater Boston has to offer! Many of them are connected by the more-than-century-old Emerald Necklace, which is stewarded by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy. The Conservancy is offering the public a chance to experience those parks on two wheels with some upcoming community bike rides, and Carlen Singmaster, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Conservancy, joins Nichole to share the details.
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April vacation isn't far off, and instead of vegging away in front of the TV or iPad, the City of Boston is rallying kids to get involved in the upcoming Mayor's Cup Street Hockey Tournament! Teams from all over the city are coming to Dorchester to compete, and they're not just in it for the bragging rights. There's a great prize, too! Damien Margardo from Boston Parks and Recreation returns to the show to share all the details parents need to know to get their kids involved.
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Greater Boston is full of philanthropists and grassroots non-profits that are dedicated to doing good in underserved communities. The Boston Women's Fund has just released a new first-of-its-kind report that goes through the financing for these non-profits, tracking exactly where the money goes. They found only a tiny fraction of the billions in available funding is going to organizations that support women and girls of color. Boston Women's Fund CEO Natanja Craig Oquendo, and Jessica Martin, a research consultant for the Fund, join Nichole to explain what they found, discuss the contributing factors, and offer their advice for a fairer future.
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Families on the South Shore have relied on, and enjoyed, their local YMCA for more than a century, and that's not changing anytime soon! Tens of thousands of people utilize the South Shore YMCA's programs each year, which include everything from youth programs to social services like a food pantry. Newly appointed President and CEO Trevor Williams says they've got a blueprint to expand their offerings to assist even more residents over the coming years. He talks with Nichole about their new "Together We Thrive" plan and the upcoming "Taste of the South Shore" event.
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Often, when you go to the doctor or psychiatrist and tell them you're in a funk, or not feeling like yourself, they'll prescribe you a pill or some other type of medicine. However, in some cases, instead of being handed a prescription for an anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medicine, patients are being prescribed visits to local art and culture institutions, like museums, community centers, and the theater. Nichole talks with Erik Holmgren, Manager of Advancement and Strategic Partnerships at the Mass Cultural Council, and Chris Appleton, Founder and CEO of SocialRx, about their efforts to connect more Bay State residents to these life-changing programs.
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Lovers of the fiber arts and all things witchy are making their way to Salem, Massachusetts next month for the upcoming Fiber Witch Festival! With trolley tours, a maker's market, and a special sea-themed gala, it's an enchantingly creative celebration of crafters and the supernatural. Ana Campos, the festival's founder and owner of Circle of Stitches in Salem, joins Nichole to share all the details.
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While Massachusetts, and especially Greater Boston, are often seen as a hub of progress and innovation, that's not always the case when it comes to wage equity. There have been some advancements to shrink the gap, but there's also a first-in-the-nation program in Boston working with city officials and local businesses to try and eliminate that gap completely. Kim Borman, Executive Director of the Boston Women's Workplace Council, shares their latest wage inequity data with Nichole and discusses their efforts.
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Oftentimes, when your local library is putting on a book sale, it's held at the library itself. In Nahant, they're doing a cleanout of some rare titles that, in some cases, haven't seen the light of day in decades. What's different here is that they're doing it on eBay, opening up bid opportunities from all over the world. Nori Morganstein, Director of the Nahant Public Library, discusses their decision to go digital with this latest book sale, and why it's necessary to part ways with some of these aged books.
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March 17th is known to many as Saint Patrick's Day, but for Bostonians, it's also Evacuation Day. Centuries ago, during the buildup of the American Revolution, Boston was a city under siege. It took a drastic, strategic standoff by Patriot colonists at Dorchester Heights to send the British sailing off to Canada, and it all played out on what we now know as Evacuation Day. Jonathan Lane, Executive Director of Revolution 250 in Boston, joins the show to tell the dramatic story and share details of this year's commemoration in Dorchester.
This segment is the seventh interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026.
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Tens of thousands of books in the Berkshire Community College library were put in storage a few years back so the school could do some much-needed renovations to the building. Recently, when staff were preparing to bring the books back, they made a tragic discovery - most of the collection was destroyed. Richard Felver, the Dean of the Library and Learning Commons at BCC in Pittsfield, joins Nichole to explain what happened to the books, and share the story of their unexpected pivot that was bolstered by help from the academic community.
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For centuries, the team at what's now known as Gather in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, has been leading the charge on the Seacoast to ensure no one goes hungry. They're finding all kinds of different ways to offer up nutritious, affordable food to those who need it, including the recent opening of their Community Food Center. Executive Director Anne Hayes talks with Nichole about their long history of work in the community and shares information about their many resources for residents of New Hampshire and Maine.
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There's a movement in Massachusetts to introduce a new type of election: "all-party primaries". The idea is simple: let everyone run in the primary elections together for any given race, regardless of party, and the best candidates will come out on top. This potential ballot measure is being pushed by the "Coalition for Healthy Democracy", which says such elections will make elections more competitive and transparent. Harvard University professor and former gubernatorial candidate Danielle Allen discusses their efforts with Nichole on this week's show.
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It takes a lot of important attributes to be a successful gardener: patience, kindness, empathy, determination, and discipline, among others. These are just some of the many important lessons students in Cambridge and Boston Public Schools are learning through partnerships with Cambridge non-profit "City Sprouts". Susan Diller, Executive Director of City Sprouts, joins Nichole to explore how the program teaches local kids these valuable skills through hands-on learning in the dirt, and share details about their upcoming conference for educators and gardeners.
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It's been a frigid, unforgiving winter, but sometimes, that doesn't matter if you're a young person in an unsafe situation and feel you need to get away, quick. Instead of leaving them on the streets to suffer in the elements, "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" is working overtime to make sure homeless, at-risk, and runaway youth have a secure, warm place to stay. Executive Director Elisabeth Jackson returns to the show this week to talk about her team's efforts on the front lines and why so many youth find themselves without a safe place to go.
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February is Black History Month, and the Freedom Trail Foundation in Boston is celebrating by offering "African-American Patriots" tours. These special tours highlight Black Bostonians, civil rights leaders, politicians, and others who helped to shape the city, and our country, as we know it today. Kelli Strong, a guide with the Freedom Trail Foundation, returns to the show to share all the information you need about these meaningful tours.
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For more than a century, the Melrose Symphony Orchestra has been performing for the community, sharing the joy of live music with people of all ages. This winter, they've been busy preparing for a pair of concerts in March that will appeal to opera lovers, local kids, and everyone in between! Yoichi Udagawa, the Symphony's longtime Conductor and Musical Director, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the Orchestra's storied history, how they try to make classical music accessible to every music lover, and details of the upcoming shows.
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With another round of bitter, Arctic cold coming into the region, you may want to crank the heat and keep your house toasty warm. Unfortunately, many Massachusetts residents are nervous about doing so because the cost of energy is so high these days, and doesn't appear to be getting much better anytime soon. An under-utilized program called HEAP can offer some relief, but community action groups say many residents don't even realize they qualify. Liz Berube, Executive Director of Citizens for Citizens in Fall River, shares all the details with Nichole on this week's show.
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It's rare these days to save your memories in a physical photo album, but there's nothing like being able to hold a photo or family artifact in your hands to remember loved ones. In an increasingly digital world, two Harvard Business School students decided to embrace generative AI to capture and preserve memories through illustrated books, which they're now doing with a new kiosk at the Harvard COOP. Co-founder Brayan Romero talks with Nichole about the technology, how his family motivated its development, and how you can try it out for yourself.
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Dynamic pricing, like surging rideshare prices during a storm, has been around for some time. Companies are now embracing a tactic called "algorithmic pricing", where the personal data it gets from your shopping habits, apps, discount cards, browsing, and much more is used to set prices for you, personally, in real-time for various items. Noah Giansiracusa, Bentley University professor and author of "Robin Hood Math", joins the show to break down how this all works and explain what it means for the future of shopping.
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You may live in a city or town that has those red fire boxes in place, where you can walk up to them and pull the lever if you need help and a phone isn't available. Those systems were state-of-the-art many years ago, but now, with modern technology in place, city officials in Salem say the system is becoming more problematic than helpful. Fire Chief Alan Dionne joins the show to talk with Nichole about the history of the boxes, the decision to retire them this summer, and what this means for residents who rely on the system for safety.
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Families all over the country, including right here in Massachusetts, are struggling to find proper beds for their children to sleep in each night. Almost 15 years after helping a neighbor in his home state of Idaho, Luke Mickelson vowed to ensure as many children as possible would be able to sleep comfortably at night, and he's teamed up with volunteers around the country to build hundreds of thousands of beds. However, he says they need more help here in New England. He joins Nichole this week to tell his story, talk about their efforts, and share information about how you can start a chapter to help kids sleep soundly.
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An accomplished young musician is about to make her way to Detroit to represent New England in a major music competition! 12-year-old Sofia Hernandez-Williams is a rising star in the cello world, and she's made her way to the top with the help of Project STEP in Boston, which works with young musicians in under-represented communities to offer them opportunities. Project STEP Executive Director Élider DiPaula talks about their mission and work on this week's episode, and Sofia's mom, Caroline Reiner-Williams, joins her daughter to share details about this big opportunity.
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40 years ago this month, Americans of all ages were watching their TV's in suspense, following the nation's first ever "Teacher in Space", Christa McAuliffe, and six other crew members on the Challenger as it rocketed to space. Tragedy struck just seconds after lift-off, killing all seven on board, but the lessons and legacy of the Challenger crew live on, even today. Melissa Edwards, Executive Director of the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center in Concord, NH, joins Nichole this week to talk about their upcoming exhibit and events to mark this important anniversary.
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Flu cases keep surging here in Massachusetts as we make our way through the first weeks of winter, and emergency rooms are strained trying to keep up with the demand. Health care costs are on the way up, too, and primary care doctors can be hard to find if you don't already have one. Dr. Dustin Cotliar at South Shore Health stops by the show to talk about options patients have, including utilizing urgent care, as they try to navigate the season of sniffles.
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Middle and low-income families are feeling the financial pressure when it comes to housing here in Massachusetts. With such low stock and prices skyrocketing, experts say the Commonwealth is in a housing crisis. The "Legalize Starter Homes" campaign has been pushing to get a question on the upcoming November ballot that they say will make it easier to build housing, while also making it more accessible to own. Housing policy researcher Andrew Mikula, a member of the campaign, joins Nichole this week to discuss their ideas.
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If one of your New Year's resolutions was to volunteer in your community more often, Boston Cares says it might have a great place for you to start! They're hosting a special day of service on January 19 to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with activities ranging from assembling hygiene kits to making decorations for seniors. Executive Director Sara Hamilton joins Nichole this week with all the details about the event and information for those who want to make volunteering a frequent activity!
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Does it seem like everyone you know is getting sick these days? What's not helping is the fact that those of us living here in the New England states are contending with the worst flu season we've seen in years, and health experts say it's going to be weeks before it starts to get any better. Dr. Larry Madoff, the Medical Director of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, discusses this current wave of cases, the best ways to treat the virus, and what's helping this year's flu strain deliver that extra painful punch.
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Now that we're officially getting into the coldest months of the year, you're likely ensuring you have everything you need in place to stay warm and safe through the worst elements. That also counts for your vehicle! Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson at AAA Northeast in Providence, returns to the show to share all the information you need to make sure your vehicle can handle whatever Mother Nature decides to subject us to this winter in New England.
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Recent data shows one out of every four American adults are providing some sort of unpaid caregiving for a loved one, be it a parent, child, or someone else they know with a chronic illness or disability. Caregiving can require a lot of physical, emotional and mental energy, but there's a lot of love there, too - and there is assistance out there to ensure you don't burn out. Nichole talks with Kate Granigan, CEO of Alder in Newton, about the balance that's needed to ensure caregivers can take care of themselves, and resources that can help lighten the load.
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While getting an annual mammogram is pretty commonplace for many women, the testing isn't always accessible for many reasons: language barriers, a lack of insurance or being underinsured, the inability to get to a clinic, and childcare issues, just to name a few. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Mammography Van has a solution for that. The hospital has packed up a full mammography suite into a van, making stops around Greater Boston to ensure everyone can get a scan who needs it. Tia Goodman, the Program Director for the Mammography Van, joins the show this week with details.
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In Roxbury, the team at the National Center for Afro-American Artists has been busy, pulling together this year's rendition of "Black Nativity", the iconic Christmas performance penned by Langston Hughes. The Center is also under new leadership, with Akiba Abaka taking over to bring their creativity and work into a new era. She talks with Nichole about this year's "Black Nativity" production at the Emerson Paramount Center in Boston, the history and guardians that led NCAAA to where it is today, and her vision for NCAAA's future.
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Sometimes it just takes a bit of self-care to help lift your spirits, and for many women, a little lipstick, mascara, or blush can do just the trick. Unfortunately, good makeup isn't cheap, and when you're struggling to get by, it's far from a priority. Needham's Circle of Hope and Westborough's Give 'N Glow are teaming up with donors, influencers, and beauty companies to help women in need get a boost of dignity and confidence this holiday season. Ari Barbanell, Executive Director of Circle of Hope, joins Give 'N Glow Founder Samantha Asprelli on the show to talk about their efforts.
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When it comes to classic Christmas albums, Vince Guaraldi's "Charlie Brown Christmas" soundtrack often ranks up there near the top! You can hear it live this coming week at Watertown's Mosesian Center for the Arts, performed by the Eric Mintel Quartet on December 9. It's just one of many different winter programs that the Center is putting on this year, including educational opportunities for residents of all ages. Executive Director Aliana de la Guardia joins Nichole with all the details.
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For years, the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts has been working out of temporary offices as they carried out their mission to support Black business owners around the Commonwealth. Now, their dream to find a special place to settle down and create a permanent home for their work has been realized, with the purchase of a new "Sustainability Hub" in Roxbury. Executive Director Nicole Obi returns to the show to talk about the importance of this move, their plans for the space, and the resources they offer Black entrepreneurs and business owners here in Massachusetts.
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The Massachusetts State Lottery is no stranger to games - they've got lots of them! This time of year, they're also getting involved with board games, plushies, sports equipment, and other toys for local kids in need. The Lottery's 10th annual Holiday Toy Drive is underway, and they need your help to make sure it's a fun, joy-filled season for every child in the Commonwealth. Rachel Guerra, Deputy Director of Communications at the Lottery, joins Nichole this week to share all the info.
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The Massachusetts Horticultural Society's annual Festival of Trees is underway in Wellesley. From sparkling holiday trees to model trains, there's a little something for everyone, even down to the hot chocolate and s'mores keeping you warm as you wander through the Garden at Elm Bank! Allison Dush, the Director of Programs and Education at the Society, talks with Nichole about this family-friendly holiday event that serves as the Society's biggest fundraiser of the year.
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This is a huge weekend for holiday shopping, with big box stores, online chains, and small businesses alike offering up deep discounts. New data from the Retailers Association of Massachusetts shows our Main Street businesses could really use some holiday love in order to keep them thriving into 2026 and beyond. Jon Hurst, President and CEO of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the state of our small businesses this season.
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If you're a veteran, or happen to know one, you might be familiar with the work of DAV - Disabled American Veterans. One of the major missions that they focus on is connecting veterans with work, especially as we deal with rising unemployment around the country. They've got a nationwide virtual job fair coming up later on this month, and Dan Clare, DAV's Chief Communications and Outreach Officer, joins the show with the details.
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A little bit of spice or seasoning can turn a humdrum meal into something nutritious, tasty, and filling. With Massachusetts in the throes of a food insecurity crisis, people who find themselves needing to utilize food banks and pantries may not always be able to access the spices and seasonings that help them connect to their culture and feel the dignity they deserve by cooking a complete meal. The Boston Public Library's Spice Bank is working to supplement pantries with these seasonings, but they need your help to do it. Allie Hahn, Children's Librarian at the BPL Brighton Center branch, joins Nichole to talk about the importance of the project and how you can help.
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Earlier this month, we marked Veterans Day and paid tribute to all the service members who give their time, energy, health, and so much more to ensure our nation stays safe. However, veterans are in need of resources all year long, and in New England, veterans have a big ally in a Worcester non-profit called Veterans, Inc. From housing programs to suicide prevention, healthcare to case management, they cover it all and much more. Raymond Carville, the Public Affairs Manager at Veterans Inc. talks about all they have to offer with Nichole on this week's show.
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As resale sites grow in popularity, Second Serve Resale, based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, is standing out. Not only is it connecting customers with gently loved designer offerings, but owner Amy Hebb is taking it one step further: customers choose which charity receives 85% of the purchase price, ranging from local food banks to international women's organizations! Amy talks about her efforts, and sustainable fashion, with Nichole on this week's episode.
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Have you noticed your morning (or afternoon) coffee is getting more expensive? Perhaps the beans you really like at the store are hitting your wallet, too. Roasters here in New England and around the country are struggling with the rising cost of beans, which is hitting customers in the cup. Derek Anderson, the owner of Speedwell Coffee in Plymouth, joins Nichole this week to talk about their experience, the factors playing into this developing situation, and what you, the coffee lover, should expect.
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In Worcester, there's a branch of a local credit union that has a lot of young energy behind the scenes! All One Credit Union recently opened up a branch at Worcester Technical High School, and patrons who come to do their banking will find students behind the counter processing their transactions. Nichole talks with Lauren Hayes, the head of the Finance, Marketing, and Business Management department at WTHS, Dr. Patricia Suomala, the Director of Career and Technical Education at WTHS, Brittany Haley, All One Credit Union's Assistant VP of Financial Education, and a student in the program to learn all about it.
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When you think of housing policy, you may not immediately think of furry friends. However, MSPCA-Angell in Jamaica Plain says our pets need to be kept in mind when it comes to the ongoing housing crisis. They've brought on a new housing specialist, Jamie Blackburn, to advocate for pet owners and find a way to keep them, and their beloved pets, together without fear of eviction or foreclosure. Jamie joins Nichole this week to talk about their mission and efforts.
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While life seemed simpler back in the day before most everything moved online, you have to be pretty connected nowadays in order to accomplish even the most basic of tasks. There's still a stark digital divide in low-income areas, rural areas, and with seniors and students. The city of Cambridge has a "Digital Navigator" program that's working with residents, one by one, to connect them with knowledge, experience, and the devices they need to get by. Samara Murrell, the Coordinator of Cambridge Community Television's efforts in the Digital Navigator program, joins Nichole to talk about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Food banks, advocates, and local officials have been scrambling this week upon word that November's SNAP assistance won't be funded by the federal government. The Trump administration cites the ongoing shutdown for the move, and refuses to tap into federal contingency funding. However, state leaders say the hundreds of millions of dollars each month simply can't be covered on the state level, and holding back SNAP funding during a shutdown is unprecedented.
Erin McAleer of Project Bread and Andrew Morehouse of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts are part of the Make Hunger History Coalition. They return to the show this week to discuss the situation and offer resources for those in need, including the Project Bread FoodSource Hotline, which you can call at 1-800-645-8333.
CONTENT NOTE: This discussion was recorded earlier in the week from the publish date, and there have been some legal developments over the funding for November's SNAP benefits. However, the interview's information on the story and resources for food access remains timely.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The stories of the deadly Salem Witch Trials are well known, with the hysteria sweeping through for months in the 1690's. If you visit Salem, you'll find museums and memorials dedicated to the incident, but what many don't know is that down the road, in what we now call Danvers, is where the real beginning of America's witch panic took place. Daniel Gagnon, a life-long Danvers resident, author, and historian, joins Nichole to explain the history of Salem Village, how the witch hunt played out there, and why the village decided to take on a new identity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this year's theme is "With Survivors, Always". In Boston, Jane Doe Inc., the state's coalition against sexual assault and domestic violence, is working each day to ensure survivors have access to the help they need to find safety, healing, and peace. However, state and federal cuts have sparked worry in these organizations over just how much they'll be able to help victims in the short and long-term. Hema Sarang-Suminski, Executive Director of Jane Doe Inc., joins Nichole on the show to talk about their mission, efforts, and resources for those struggling with intimate relationship abuse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The middle school years can be difficult for young people, with so many questions about the world around them and their place in it as they come of age. YW Boston recently launched a program called "F.Y.R.E.", or Fierce Youth Re-Igniting Excellence, which focuses on teaching BIPOC girls and gender-expansive youth resilience, confidence, and leadership skills, while offering them an understanding space to talk about whatever's on their mind. President and CEO Aba Taylor and F.Y.R.E. Director Jay Boss join Nichole this week to talk about the program's mission and impact among Boston's youth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reading is fundamental, so they say, and it can also be a major factor in cutting down prison recidivism rates. The Prison Book Program in Quincy has been providing free books to incarcerated people around the country since 1972, helping people behind bars grow, study, and prepare for a healthier and more productive life upon their release. Executive Director Kelly Brotzman joins Nichole this week to talk about their mission, their efforts to get books into prison "book deserts", and their upcoming fundraiser later this month.
It's easy to forget about food in the fridge or the cabinets, leading it to go bad. Oftentimes, it just goes right in the trash, and when you add your food waste to everyone else's, plus all the waste from hospitals, restaurants, cafeterias, schools, and other institutions, it adds up fast! Massachusetts has had a commercial food waste ban in place since 2014 to try and cut down on the negative impacts of this food waste, and a new report shows the Commonwealth's efforts are showing success, both economically and environmentally. MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple returns to the show to break down the report with Nichole and talk about the state's future food waste goals.
You may not think twice about paying that extra fee for canned soda, beer, seltzer, and other drinks at the grocery store, but how often do you bring the cans back to the store to get your money back? Over the years, Jeff Dinneen of Needham has made it his mission to collect those cans, redeem them, and use the money to supply the Needham Community Council with much-needed food and milk for local residents in need. He talks with Nichole this week about his inspiration, his process, and how you can help keep the project going.
Kids have packed school schedules these days, and the few precious minutes of recess they can get aren't often enough to run off all that pent-up energy. Over at Playworks New England, they believe recess is for much more than play - it's critical to help kids grow and learn important social skills. They're working in schools around the region to make that happen, and Max Fripp, the Executive Director of Playworks New England, joins the show this week to talk about their work and mission.
Cardiac incidents occur without much warning, if any, and time is of the essence to save a life. CPR is important, but a device called an AED - automated external defibrillator - can restart someone's heart quickly, before serious brain damage can set in. While many offices, retail outlets and apartment buildings have these devices, it's not always clear where they are, and that's where Cardiac Crusade comes in. They're rallying volunteers around the country, including here in Massachusetts, to help them map these devices, with hopes of eventually working with tech companies to make it easy for you to find them in times of need. Founder Greg Coon and Massachusetts Executive Director Tyler Mola join Nichole this week to tell their story and share details about their upcoming event in Southie.
Whether you use needles, a loom, a hook, or even just your hands, there's a craft in the fiber arts space for everyone who wants to get creative. You'll never run out of ideas for projects, but those projects need yarn and thread to get done - and that's where the Greater Boston Yarn Crawl comes in! More than a dozen small yarn shops are taking part in this year's Crawl, including Sit 'N Knit in Melrose. Owner Jennifer Goldenberg talks with Nichole this week about the event and the recent surge of people joining the fiber arts community.
Dating these days can be a daunting experience. The dating apps can be full of rejections, scammers, and people who aren't always being truthful about who they really are. It might seem a little old-fashioned, but there are matchmakers around Greater Boston who say they're successful at helping singles connect in a more truthful, intentional way. Jill Vandor, Executive Matchmaker and Founder of Allure Matchmaking, talks with Nichole about how to stay safe while dating, the inner work that's necessary, and the benefits of a matchmaker helping you find love.
For cancer patients, a diagnosis can not only be scary and overwhelming, it can also be financially devastating. One out of every three cancer patients finds themselves struggling to meet basic financial needs as they're going through treatment, yet another blow for people who are already suffering a traumatic event. Family Reach, a Boston-based non-profit, steps in to help patients stay afloat financially by connecting them to critical resources. CEO Carla Tardif joins Nichole on this week's episode to talk about their mission and the importance of their work.
September is Suicide Awareness Month, and veterans are at especially high risk as they try to transition back into civilian life while dealing with stress, anxiety, and trauma they may have developed during their time in the service. A Danvers non-profit, Company 2 Heroes, is working with veterans and furry friends to help those vets regain their independence and ease their pain. Founder Kate van Auken talks with Nichole this week about the power of loving dedication that only a dog can provide, and how they're working with veterans to help train their very own support dogs.
We're getting into perfect biking weather, and in just a couple of weeks, Winchester's Marlowe Foundation hopes you'll join them for a very special ride. They're biking from Winchester up to Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, all to raise money for some local non-profits doing important work with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stephen Roge, Co-Founder of the Marlowe Foundation, shares their story with Nichole and explains how you can take part.
It's been decades since Boston had a Labor Day parade, but that's all about to change. On September 1, 2025, the Greater Boston Labor Council will be putting on a parade to highlight Boston's deep connections to the labor movement through the past, present, and future. It's an event that's set to bring together union members and supporters from all over New England. GBLC President Darlene Lombos joins Nichole to talk all about it and share important planning info for parade-goers.
This week, Amtrak introduced its brand new Acela trains to the Northeast Corridor, running inaugural trips between Boston and Washington. Officials say this upgrade has been a long time coming, with new "tilt" technology to provide a smoother ride and the potential for faster trips. Amtrak senior spokesman Jason Abrams talks trains with Nichole, sharing details about the new amenities and what you can expect on your next trip.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Project Save Photograph Archive in Watertown. Over the years, the archive's founder, Ruth Thomasian, has worked tirelessly to collect photographs of Armenian life. These photos showcase the Armenian experience before, during, and after the diaspora, and highlight how Armenians have been able to come together in community around the globe. Executive Director Arto Vaun joins Nichole on the show this week to discuss the archive's history, mission, and plans for the next 50 years.
Over in Easton, the House of Possibilities provides an array of services, training opportunities, and even a respite space for people with disabilities, all in the hopes of helping them find community and live as independently as possible. Recently, HOPe received a major grant from the Yawkey Foundation which they say will be transformative for their work. President and CEO Katie Terino talks with Nichole about their plans for the grant, their "home away from home", and their efforts to promote inclusivity.
Just two decades ago, Boston's Seaport neighborhood had a very different look: hundreds of acres of vacant concrete, used mostly for industrial purposes. You'd never believe it if you went there now, with former mayor Tom Menino's vision for an "Innovation District" having come to fruition. One of the main players in the development of the Seaport is The Fallon Company, and they recently topped off their final building on Fan Pier. Executive Managing Director Richard Martini joins Nichole to share the ins and outs of this decades-long project and his thoughts on the neighborhood's evolution.
Boston's North End is always the place to go for a filling meal and a warm welcome, but feast season is when the neighborhood truly shines! The Fisherman's Feast is the oldest continuously running Italian festival in the North End, and it returns this summer for its 115th year. From the ever-popular meatball contest to the iconic "Flight of the Angel", there will be plenty to enjoy and learn. Louis Strazzullo, Co-Chair of the Fisherman's Feast, talks with Nichole about the festival's deep roots to Sicily, the renowed traditions, and everything you can expect if you stop by August 14-18.
For more than 35 years, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester have offered a secure place for young people to be during the summer months, when they're not in school. This time of year is considered a "high-risk" period for violence and gang activity involving kids and teens, and the "Safe Summer Streets" program provides an engaging environment through sports, art, music, special events, and much more. CEO Bob Scannell and SVP of Operations Mike Joyce join Nichole this week to talk about this program, which they came up with together, and how it's made an impact curbing youth violence in their neighborhood.
Each and every year, the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts serve thousands of girls throughout the Commonwealth, offering them opportunities to build leadership and life skills. This time of year, it's all about summer fun through camps, troop activities, and much more, but it's important to ensure every child who wants to take part has the chance to do so. Theresa Lynn, CEO of GSCWM, talks with Nichole about their efforts to ensure girls in underserved communities have access to these programs, their upcoming events, and a very special camp anniversary.
Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire is going to be full of music, fun, dancing, and connection later this month for this year's New England BIPOC Festival. This event celebrates the many different cultures, racial backgrounds, and ethnicities that make up the fabric of life in New England, and it's completely free for the public to come and enjoy. David Vargas, Vice Chair of the Festival's board, joins Nichole to talk about this festival that has blossomed from a parking lot gathering to a beloved, growing regional event.
Nearly one out of every ten women around the globe have a chronic disease called endometriosis. This gynecological condition can be incredibly painful, at times debilitating. Advocates say the medical industry hasn't given this condition the attention it deserves, and many patients say they don't feel heard when they try to explain their symptoms. Lawmakers on Beacon Hill are now considering a bill that would create a special task force focused on improving research and treatment. Dr. Pietro Bortoletto, co-founder of Terra Fertility in Dedham, and his patient, Madeleine Rodriguez, join Nichole to talk about the condition and the efforts to bring more awareness to its impacts.
Kids love new books, no matter where you live! In the eastern Caribbean, many schools and libraries don't have enough books for children to enjoy, something that's contributing to child illiteracy. While people here in the US pull together book drives with the best of intentions, oftentimes, the books that arrive are either in bad shape or not culturally relevant. Hands Across the Sea buys books new and works with people in the Caribbean to distribute them where they're needed most. Ben Engle, the Executive Director of Hands Across the Sea, joins Nichole to talk about their mission.
A herd of magical unicorns is waiting for you to come say hello in Jefferson! The Farm at SummitWynds is holding its annual Unicorn Festival July 25, 26, and 27. It promises to be a memorable time with food, pony rides, a bouncy house, live music, and much more on the 32-acre farm in Central Massachusetts. Owner Amy Parker and her daughter, Amanda Morse, share all the details about this enchanting event with Nichole on this week's show.
Colorectal cancer is showing up more often in younger generations, such as millennials. This type of cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death, but it's also easily preventable with regular screenings. It can be challenging for people in underserved communities to get access to these screenings, or even learn about them, so Mass General Brigham is making an effort to get the word out. Dr. Allison Bryant, MGB's Associate Chief Health Equity Officer, returns to the show this week to share information about this important campaign.
When you're struggling or living alone, it can mean the world for someone to ask if you're okay. Seniors, people with disabilities or medical problems, and anyone else who is vulnerable in Norfolk County have access to a free program that provides frequent wellness checks when others may not be able to do so. Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott and NCSO Officer Cheryl Bambery are on the show this week to talk with Nichole about how the program works, why it matters, and how it's already being lauded for helping people in their time of crisis.
There's nothing quite like a tasty, nutritious meal full of fresh ingredients, especially if they're locally sourced. For almost two decades, the people behind the Island Grown Initiative have been working to build a local food system, helping the island's year-round residents ensure they always have healthy food on the table while teaching young people how to continue the work. Noli Taylor, Co-Executive Director of Island Grown Initiative, joins Nichole on the the show this week to tell their story.
If you've ever applied for federal student aid to go to college or university, you've likely heard of Pell Grants. Students from working-class families around the country often rely on these federal grants to fill out their financial aid. However, as part of the new spending plan just passed by Congress, some big changes could be coming for those grants that are worrying local higher education officials. Nate Mackinnon, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges, talks with Nichole about the impact this could have on the state's community colleges and overall affordability for those who want to expand their education.
Tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents are officially unemployed, and trying to find a job isn't easy these days. Often, when you're switching careers, it can be difficult to know where to start, or what resources are available for you. ABCD and MassHire are teaming up to open a brand new career center in Roxbury's Nubian Square! ABCD's President and CEO, Sharon Scott-Chandler, returns to the show to talk about all it has to offer.
Independence Day is on the horizon, and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge is holding a special celebration of America through the arts! "We Hold These Truths" will feature music, history, food, fun, and much more for people of all ages. Rockwell's known for his iconic paintings and drawings that highlight the experiences of mid-century America, which makes it a fitting place to celebrate our independence. Kathryn Potts, the museum's Chief Learning and Engagement Officer, joins the show this week to share the details of the upcoming event and all the campus has to offer.
While being a mom can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be exhausting mentally, physically, and emotionally, and sometimes you just want to connect with other mothers to get a boost. Boston Moms, a spinoff of Wicked Good Mom Media, says it's got just the thing for local moms this summer: "Wicked Good Playdates" at shopping centers around Greater Boston. Meghan Block, Owner of Wicked Good Mom Media, joins Nichole this week to discuss the importance of connection for mothers, no matter the age, and share details about the upcoming events.
We're a few weeks into hurricane season. Have you gone over what's in your "go bag", or double checked your evacuation zone? Not quite sure where to begin to make sure you're prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at us? Dawn Brantley, the Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about what you should focus on for your preps, and how cuts in federal funding for disaster response could impact our region.
With all the damage we've seen from massive storms that have hit the US in recent years, including some devastating flooding right here in Massachusetts, there are a lot of questions about who, exactly, should get flood insurance. Is it worth it? Bill Martin, CEO of Plymouth Rock Home Assurance, talks with Nichole about the pros and cons, and what you should consider if you're thinking about a policy.
A cancer diagnosis can be devastating for anyone, but it's especially so when it happens to a child. Families rally to support their loved one while they navigate treatment, but it can take a toll on everyone involved. Anna's Pals, a non-profit in West Roxbury, is slowly but surely creating a special getaway for these families where they can sit back, relax, and take a breath on the Cape. Kristina Jerome, Founder of Anna's Pals, shares details about their efforts to build this beach home in her late daughter's memory.
Scammers are always going to try and find a way to steal your hard-earned money, your personal information, your medical details - anything they can get from you. These days, that also includes your home and property, and they're doing it through "quit claim deed scams". It's happening in New Hampshire, so Senior Assistant Attorney General Brandon Garod talks with Nichole this week about how this scam works and share steps you can take to make sure your property isn't stolen from under your nose.
These days, you can get pretty much anything you want out of a vending machine, but they're also playing an important role in Boston's public health efforts. North End Waterfront Health is using these machines to provide basic necessities and harm-reduction supplies to people who are unhoused, low on cash, or navigating substance use. David Perry, Director of Substance Use Disorder Services, and Nadya Zaltsman, a recovery coach at NEW Health, are on the show this week to talk about the importance of low-barrier, judgment-free options to help people in need.
Despite all the rain we've had this spring (so many Saturdays washed out!), it's still a great time to get outside and explore in the woods, in meadows, up trees - you name it. Trouble is, in all those places, you're at risk of picking up a hitch-hiker: a tick! They can share some pretty concerning illnesses, but there are ways to protect yourself. Dr. Joao Tavares, Infectious Disease Specialist at Cape Cod Healthcare in Hyannis, joins the show this week for some "tick talk".
There's a lot of food out there that's perfectly good to eat, but, for whatever reason, isn't easily sold. Perhaps it has bruises, it's just past the expiration date, or the packaging is off. Meals made for big functions often just end up in the trash if no one comes to consume them. Spoonfuls in Newton, a "food recovery" service, works each and every day to track down consumables that are destined for the landfill and redirect them to people in need around the Commonwealth. Erin Keohane, the Chief Advancement Officer at Spoonfuls, talks with Nichole about their process, why their services are needed more now than ever, and the roadblocks they're dealing with involving federal funding and support.
Most of the clothing in our closets is a few years old, max. Maybe you have some vintage in there, but nothing quite like the closet at the Plymouth Antiquarian Society. They have a treasure trove of clothing that, in some cases, is centuries old! As we approach the nation's 250th anniversary, the Society is highlighting some of its prized Revolutionary-era pieces. Executive Director Patrick Browne shares stories about the collection and talks about the efforts they take to preserve these special garments.
This segment is the seventh interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
When we talk about the American Revolution, we're often talking about the patriots and revolutionaries who rose up and fought back against the British, especially in Massachusetts where so much of the movement took root. In Weston, there's a museum telling a story that you may not have heard that often: the story of the Loyalists, or Redcoats, who wanted to stay loyal to Britain. Katie Campbell, the Executive Director of the Golden Ball Tavern Museum in Weston, talks with Nichole about their new exhibit focusing on colonial espionage and sheds light into the life of a prominent Loyalist.
This segment is the sixth interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Do you know how much energy you're really using when you're generating those cute videos and photos on AI platforms like ChatGPT, Copilot or Gemini? It's likely a lot more than you think. With so many people utilizing these platforms, entering all kinds of prompts, it's very quickly starting to put stress on our power grid. Matthew Carrara of Doble Engineering in Marlborough talks with Nichole about what's really happening behind the scenes, and what needs to be done to ensure our infrastructure is able to keep up.
The weather is warmer, the pollen is flying, trees are blooming... it's the perfect time to get out and explore all that New England's outdoors has to offer! If you're looking for a new hike to try, or a new restaurant to check out when you're done getting your wilderness fix, Marc Hurwitz can help. He's the man behind Boston's Hidden Restaurants and Boston Restaurant Talk, but he also leads hikes for the Appalachian Mountain Club throughout New England. Marc returns to the show to share some of his favorite spots and provide an update on the local restaurant industry.
A few months back, Sasha Purpura from Daily Table in Boston joined the show to talk about the non-profit grocery store's mission: team up with local suppliers and farmers to ensure everyone has access to low-cost, healthy food. Some surprising news has developed: the board of Daily Table announced recently it was closing down all operations within a matter of days, a move that shocked advocates, community leaders, and residents. Sasha returns to the show to talk about what happened and share resources for those who are food insecure in Massachusetts.
As health care advances, our medical devices have to evolve to keep up, which means they have to be connected to networks and the wider internet in ways they never were before. Unfortunately, that also means they're prime targets for hackers who want to steal your information and cause chaos. The recent "Device Talks Boston" conference focused, in part, on how the industry needs to catch up and put stronger security in place for our medical devices. Trevor Slattery, Chief Technology Officer at Blue Goat Cyber in Scottsdale, Arizona attended the conference, and stepped away to talk with Nichole about solutions for this problem.
Did you get your REAL ID yet? Earlier this week, the law requiring you to have one to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings kicked in, and it's caused a bit of confusion for some who haven't been able to get one. Lines have been long at the RMV and appointments are tough to find. What happens if you need to travel and you don't have your updated ID? Dan Velez, spokesman for TSA New England, answers your questions about the ID's and the new regulations.
This warmer weather is the perfect time to dust off the bike and hit the road for a good cause. Bike MS is holding its annual "Cape Cod Getaway" next month to raise money for the National MS Society, which works each and every day to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. The Getaway is a two-day affair, and you won't even have to rent a vacation house! Jennifer Dowdy, the Development Director of Bike MS, and Liam Kennedy, captain of Liam's Lucky Charms, join Nichole to talk about it.
Since the late 1980's, the team at Marshfield's "Road to Responsibility" has had one mission: assist those with intellectual and physical disabilities with living their lives to the fullest. They do so by providing essential services in day programs and community living, along with promoting inclusivity and understanding in the community at large. One of their new tools is a virtual reality program that's already become a major success. President and CEO Christopher White joins clinician Rebecca Ellis to talk about how they're introducing this technology into their programming.
Boston is the home to many of the region, nation, and world's most powerful people. That being said, not everyone can be truly influential. Boston Magazine has just released its latest list of the city's most influential people, and it includes all kinds of people: athletes, lawmakers, developers, even infants! Brittany Jasnoff, Executive Editor at Boston Magazine, dives deeper into the list with Nichole to talk about their process, what influence truly means, and some of their top picks.
More than a century has passed since the Melrose Symphony Orchestra started performing together, making the group the nation's oldest continuing all-volunteer orchestra. Another season is coming to an end, and the final concert is a packed potpourri of favorites, including a special guest. Conductor Yoichi Udagawa returns to the show with all the details about the upcoming show, and talks with Nichole about the season.
Trying to find a job these days can be overwhelming, draining, and downright frustrating. Here in the Boston area, there's a message from those in the hospitality industry: we're hiring, and we need you now! Meet Boston is putting on a new regional job fair, hoping to connect those who need work with opportunities in hotels, tourism, and restaurants, all huge contributors to the city's economy. Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston, and Conan Harris, Founder and CEO of Conan Harris and Associates, talk with Nichole about the resources and opportunities the fair has available for those who need a job.
The rising cost of housing and essentials is making it more difficult for families and individuals to put nourishing food on the table. Since 1969, Project Bread in Boston has hosted the "Walk for Hunger", a community movement to bring awareness to this problem and raise much-needed money for hunger relief. Project Bread President Erin McAleer returns to the show to share the details with Nichole and give an update on their work to fight hunger in Massachusetts.
There are many ways to promote healthy aging, including getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking your medicine properly. Also important: staying active and connected with your community! For many seniors, loneliness and isolation can take a big toll on mental and physical health. Now that the weather is warmer, Boston Parks and Rec is rolling out its "ABC Forever Young" program, offering local seniors the opportunity to come together and play some fun games! Damien Margardo, Program Manager at Boston Parks and Rec, talks with Nichole about what they have to offer.
It was almost 250 years ago to the day when residents of Concord ended up playing a critical role in the American Revolution, as it was there, and in neighboring Lexington, where the first shots of the war were fired. The town has embraced that pivotal history throughout the centuries, including at the Concord Museum, where dozens of historical objects connected to the events of that Wednesday in 1775 are now on display. Museum Director Lisa Krassner joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about their plans for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution on April 19th and what they have to offer in this new exhibit.
This segment is the fifth interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
No matter why you love baseball - ballparks, the players, the skill, the atmosphere - it's also perfect fodder for poets around the world to talk about their love of the game. Worcester is home to the National Baseball Poetry Festival, celebrating the intersection of America's pastime and the timeless art of poetry. This year's event at Polar Park and other venues includes all kinds of exciting activities, and everyone is invited. Founder Steven Biondolillo talks with Nichole about everything the Festival has to offer on this week's show.
Baseball and music lovers come together each year for the "Hot Stove Cool Music" benefit concert, which raises money for underserved youth through the Foundation To Be Named Later. It's a brainchild of baseball writers Jeff Horrigan and Peter Gammons, with a nod to the sport they love. This year, the event is celebrating its 25th anniversary with some epic guests. Former Red Sox pitcher Lenny DiNardo, now a sports analyst at NESN, is co-hosting this year's event. He joins Nichole this week to share all the cool details about this hot event.
Since the days following the Revolutionary War, the Massachusetts Historical Society has been dutifully documenting events and stories that have made up the American experience, especially here in New England. That includes a one-of-a-kind look into how the war for independence played out back in the 1700's. Chief Historian Peter Drummey joins Nichole with new information about their exhibit "1775 - Rebels, Rights, and Revolution", and a deeper look into what it takes to preserve history.
This segment is the fourth interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Dorchester's Louis D. Brown Peace Institute was founded more than 30 years ago out of a mother's grief and pain. Chaplain Clementina Chery created the Institute to honor her late son, Louis, who was gunned down in the streets of Dorchester at just 15 years old in 1993. Now, the institute is known for the Mother's Day Walk for Peace and other work to not just prevent gun violence, but also help the families impacted by it. Chaplain Chery says she and the Institute want to take their work to a new level with a new Center for Healing, Teaching, and Learning. She shares the details with Nichole and explains how the community can help make the Center a reality.
April school vacation in Massachusetts is just a few weeks away. If you're doing a staycation this time around, or if you don't have any plans just yet, you might be thinking about what you want to do with the kids. The City of Boston says it's got a special event planned for girls age 7-12: the All-Girls Sports and Wellness Festival! Jennifer Misiaszek from Boston Parks and Recreation joins Nichole this week to talk about everything the event has to offer in hopes of empowering Boston's girls.
Tariffs have been imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China, impacting farm and dairy products like wheat, corn, cotton, chicken, fruits, vegetables, and beef. Farmers and ranchers have been voicing their concerns about this, saying if the tariffs stick, it could hike prices for farmers and consumers alike, and strain an industry that's already, in some cases, struggling to get by. Warren Shaw, the President of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and the owner/operator of Shaw Farm in Dracut, talks with Nichole about the potential local impact of these tariffs on farmers.
The legendary poem about Paul Revere from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poignantly lays out the dramatic events that unfolded between Boston and Concord on April 18, 1775, setting the stage for the opening battles of the Revolutionary War. Revere wasn't the only man who made the crucial ride to warn the minutemen, but thanks to that poem, Revere's efforts became stuff of legend. Nina Zannieri, Executive Director of the Paul Revere House in Boston, joins Nichole to talk about the work to preserve Revere's legacy and the celebrations they have planned for the 250th anniversary of Revere's ride.
This segment is the third interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Finding a bargain these days is far more streamlined than it used to be - no more clipping coupons around the kitchen table! Couponing apps are all the rage with influencers on social media who are helping their followers save a buck or two as we deal with high prices on just about everything. Julia Belkin, the Boston woman behind Freebies and More on Instagram and TikTok, joins Nichole to share some tips and tricks.
While the nation's big birthday party is coming up next year, in just a matter of weeks, Massachusetts will mark 250 years since the "shot heard 'round the world" - the battles of Lexington and Concord, which sparked the war against the British for American independence. The colonists were ready for the British that day thanks to careful planning and a group of militia members called the "Minute Men". Even today, the Minute Men's spirit is preserved by the Concord Minute Men, led by Captain Carl Sweeney. He talks with Nichole about what it's like to re-enact American history and their plans for this year's Patriots Day celebrations, and shares a bit of history, too.
This segment is the second interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Some big changes have been happening behind the scenes at two of Boston's best-known mentoring organizations, and you may not have even noticed. That's exactly how they planned it! Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts and the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston have merged in hopes of helping more kids around the region reach their full potential. Big Sister Association President and CEO Annissa Essaibi-George and Big Brothers Big Sisters President and CEO Mark O'Donnell share details about the merger with Nichole and talk about what this means for mentoring access around Eastern Massachusetts.
When we talk about Boston's history, it's easy to focus on the familiar stories of colonialism, the Revolutionary War, and the Founding Fathers. The true stories of the city aren't complete without the contributions of Boston's diverse communities, who have played crucial roles in shaping the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the Hub. Everyone250 is a new coalition of arts and cultural organizations ensuring those diverse stories are told as we look ahead to the nation's 250th birthday. Jeneé Osterheldt, Dr. Imari Paris Jeffries, and Brian Boyles, Co-Chairs of Everyone250, talk with Nichole about their mission and upcoming events.
This segment is the first interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Back in 1958, passenger rail service came to an end between Boston and the South Coast of Massachusetts, leaving cities like Taunton, New Bedford, and Fall River without train access to the largest city in New England. Now, decades later, South Coast residents are about to get that access back, as the MBTA is starting up service in late March. MBTA General Manager Phil Eng joins the show to discuss the long-running project, what riders can expect, and what comes next.
Each and every day, Jake Prusha, a member of the US Coast Guard stationed in Boston, takes part in a grueling challenge called the "Murph" workout, which honors a Navy SEAL who was killed in Afghanistan back in 2005. Prusha's doing this for 100 days - not to get fit, but to raise awareness of members of the military and first responders who are grappling with mental health challenges. Jake talks with Nichole about his story, why this challenge means a lot to him, and how you can help him raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. (Find Jake on Instagram at @jakeprusha.)
In places like Massachusetts where the cost of living is higher than average, many low-income families are having to make a difficult choice each day: pay critical bills and buy food, or pick up hygiene necessities like soap and toothbrushes. Often, the heat and food win out, but that's where Needham's Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub comes in, making sure families in need are connected to hygiene supplies - even working with local schools to do it. Kerry Carter, the CEO of Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub, returns to the show to talk about a new grant they received that will help them distribute these items to hundreds of kids in the Chelsea Public Schools.
By the year 2030, experts say most work opportunities will require applicants to be strong in their digital literacy skills, including knowledge of artificial intelligence systems. As we work with future generations to get them ready for the workforce, schools are coming up with creative ways to teach those skills. Enter "hack-a-thons", where students are presented a complex problem and they have to use those skills to find a solution - and Roxbury Community College's Computer Science Club is about to host one for the very first time! Derek Goodwin, student organizer of the event, and faculty advisor Dr. Mya Bowen join the show to talk about hack-a-thons and what they hope theirs will accomplish.
Even though it's downright frigid outside, the Franklin Park Zoo and Zoo New England are embracing all things tropical at their new "Orchid Adventure" exhibit! Visitors can spend time with some special animals as they admire a lush display of stunning flowers - some real, some "brick". Josh Meyer, the Zoo's Horticulture and Sustainability Curator, joins the show to talk about how he keeps the orchids healthy and everything guests will get to experience when they stop by.
For more than 30 years, Our Neighbors' Table in Amesbury has been working in the Merrimack Valley to help people who are food insecure get access to the nourishment they need with dignity and grace. They've opened up two "free markets" so people can feed their families while still having a choice over what they bring home, but Our Neighbors' Table also offers community meals and home delivery services for those who need them. Lyndsey Haight, Executive Director of Our Neighbors' Table, talks with Nichole about their mission, the local food supply chain, how they foster community, and more.
Coming up next month in Dartmouth, One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to celebrate local female entrepreneurs and business leaders at their Women's Forum and Expo! Women who attend will be able to network, share ideas, and learn all about the impacts of burnout from an expert. Katie Greene, the Chamber's Vice President of Marketing and Events, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about this inspiring event.
Children's museums are a great place for kids and adults to thrive, learn, and play, but you often find them in larger cities - not so much in smaller towns. That's changing in Franklin, as two mothers who have been friends for years are making moves to open up the Children's Museum of Franklin, promising interactive exhibits, imaginative play, and much more. Co-Founders Meg Hagen and Erin Gallagher share all the details with Nichole on this week's show, and also discuss ways the community can contribute to help open the doors within the next few months.
February is Black History Month, and the Freedom Trail Foundation is offering special tours highlighting the rich and often overlooked history of African-Americans who've made an impact on the city's history. The tours promise a great walk around Boston, some enlightening and enriching conversations, and education from 18th century costumed guides playing the roles of iconic Black Bostonians. This week, a guide from the Foundation playing Phillis Wheatley joins Nichole to talk about the Foundation's work and these special tours.
With housing so tight in the Boston area, there's a lot of conversation about new construction - everything from affordability to rats. Another major factor: sustainability. Climate change is impacting New England faster than any other part of country, according to experts, and that means our architecture has to respond in kind. RODE Architects in Boston was founded by Eric Robinson and Kevin Deabler, who say they center sustainable design in all their projects. They join Nichole this week to talk about sustainable design, why climate-focused design is critical in future construction, and how they're working to get this done in one of the nation's most historic cities.
When families are evicted from their homes, it can cause some serious ripple effects for the kids involved, including disruption of their education. There's a new pilot program in Boston that hopes to work with families to prevent evictions before they're carried out, and keep kids in their classes where they can continue to grow and thrive. Danielle Johnson, Boston's Director of Housing Stability, joins the show this week to share details about the "Access to Counsel" program, and explain the impacts of eviction on families with school-aged children.
The Holocaust is one of the darkest chapters in human history. Understanding the atrocities that were committed during that time is critical to ensure they are never repeated, but as the years go by, it appears the memory of the horrors of the Holocaust is fading to some, especially those in the younger generations. After a life-changing trip to Poland and the Auschwitz concentration camp, Jody Kipnis co-founded the Holocaust Legacy Foundation, and now, the Foundation's work has led to a new Holocaust museum right here in Boston. Jody joins the show to talk about her trip, the Foundation's work, and the plans for the museum that is already under construction in downtown Boston.
It's a perfect time of year to get snuggly and stay inside where it's warm - unless you're trying to raise money for the Special Olympics of New Hampshire! This year's Penguin Plunge at Hampton Beach is coming up in just a few days, and people are raising money to help SONH provide sports training and competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Mark Ericson, the Senior Manager of Multimedia for Special Olympics New Hampshire, returns to the show to share details about this year's event and the upcoming Winni Dip in Laconia.
It can be easier to take the first steps into therapy if you're doing it in a space where you feel comfortable, safe, and part of a community. For centuries, Black and Latino men have used barbershops as places to connect with their neighbors and friends. Black Brown Boston is taking that community tradition and channeling it into "The Barbershop Clinic", hoping to provide a space for Black and Latino men to open up and do some healing. Vania Arroyo, Founder and CEO of Black Brown Boston, and marriage and family therapist Rob Badgett join Nichole this week to talk about the program and their mission.
For decades, people with substance abuse disorder, and their families, have come to Marlborough's Addiction Referral Center seeking help. The Center provides access to meetings, detox centers, sober housing, a friendly smile, and much more. Many people who keep the Center have their own stories to tell about recovery. As we enter a new year, there's a new concern for the Center, as they need a permanent address to keep their work going for another 50 years. Tracey Gustafson, President of the ARC Board, and Mitch Bannon, a member of the Board, talk with Nichole about what they have to offer those in need, and their efforts to find a place to call home.
Get your bookmarks ready - it's time for the Boston Public Library's Winter Reading Challenge! This year, it's a global affair, with books and authors from all around the world in the spotlight. Anyone who takes on the challenge gets a special prize, too! Veronica Koven-Matasy, the BPL's Reader Services Supervisor, joins Nichole this week with details on the challenge and some recommendations to get started.
Demand for skilled workers in the trades continues to grow, but there simply aren't enough people who are trained to meet the call. A Billerica-based company was among the many feeling the strain of the ongoing worker shortage, so they decided to take matters into their own hands and start their own training program, which has become incredibly popular. CEO Mike Lacrosse and People and Culture Manager Keri Brewin are on the show this week to talk with Nichole about the program and all it has to offer aspiring members of the trades.
We have no shortage of talent here in the Greater Boston area, and for more than a decade, an organization called "Castle of our Skins" has been working to ensure the voices and stories of Black artists, performers, and musicians in our neighborhood are uplifted and appreciated. Recently, they were able to work with the city of Boston to secure a brand new home in Lower Roxbury, on Columbus Avenue. Co-Founder Ashleigh Gordon talks with Nichole about the group's history, mission, and plans for their new space, "Gold Hall".
It's time to stock up on all your favorite Girl Scout cookies, everything from the classic Thin Mints and Peanut Butter Patties to the newer offerings like Lemonades. Each year, Girl Scouts around the country sell these tasty treats to raise money for their troops, but the lessons they learn are far deeper than just shelling out shortbread. Monica Roberts, the new Executive Director of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, talks with Nichole about this season's sale, a flavor that's going away (so you'll want to stock up!), and her vision for the future of Girl Scouting here in Massachusetts.
As the snow and winter conditions settle in, many children here in Massachusetts simply don't have the proper clothing to stay warm in the cold as families struggle to find enough money to go around to pay for essentials. Cradles to Crayons Boston is based in Newtonville, and they work with agencies and non-profits around the Commonwealth to get comfortable, warm clothing and other personal supplies out to as many children as possible. Executive Director Alicia Kabir, who recently joined the team, talks with Nichole about their "Gear Up for Winter" initiative and her plans for the non-profit's future.
Some new data from the Boston Public Health Commission's "Health of Boston Mental Health Report" shows a concerning trend with young people in the city: more than 40% of Boston Public Schools students say they experience persistent sadness or hopelessness. That number is higher in students from marginalized communities, such as young women, those who identify as LGBTQ, or those who are Black or Latino. In response, the City of Boston has launched a new program called "Heads Up Boston", where trusted adults help young people become more comfortable with opening up to their peers about what can be a very difficult subject. Samara Grossman, Director of the Boston Public Health Commission's Center for Behavioral health and Wellness, talks with Nichole about the program and its impact.
If you still have some gifts to pick up for the holidays and you want to support local small businesses, the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce says it's got you covered! The Chamber's new gift guide is out for the 2024 holiday season, highlighting LGBTQIA+ owned businesses all over the Commonwealth. From snacks to sweaters and beyond, Executive Director Alexandria Eberhardt says shoppers can get all kinds of ideas. She's on the show this week with Nichole to talk about the guide.
With so many families already struggling to cover monthly expenses, it can be even more complicated to try and stretch the paycheck to ensure kids get some special presents for the holidays. Action Boston Community Development, a non-profit helping people in the Greater Boston area connect to resources to get them out of poverty, says it's received thousands of requests for help with toys, but they have been struggling to meet demand. They are also collecting donations for their Winter Fund to keep families warm with winter clothing, heating assistance, and home winterization. President and CEO Sharon Scott-Chandler talks with Nichole about their efforts and shares important information about how you can help, or access assistance if necessary.
Here in New England, we haven't had a really bad cold snap yet this winter, but if we did, our power grid would be ready to handle it. That's the word from ISO New England, our regional power grid operator, which says it has more than enough juice to keep our lights and heaters going throughout the coldest winter months. Spokesman Randy Burlingame joins Nichole this week to talk about all the work going on behind the scenes to shore up the grid, forecast our demand, and keep the juice flowing.
For generations, audiences around the world have cherished “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens on the stage and screen. It’s a staple of holiday celebrations, and over at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester, they’ve taken the classic story of the miserly, curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge and re-imagined it with a modern twist while preserving its core message of hope and redemption. Associate Director Annie Kerins joins the show to share details about this year’s performances, which run from December 15-22, 2024.
Boston is beautiful this time of year, celebrating the holidays with decorations and lights adorning our generations-old historic homes and businesses. Visitors and residents alike have a chance over the coming weeks to see the city’s historic sights through the lens of the past, and learn how holiday traditions here have evolved through the centuries. Jeremiah Poope, a tour guide with the Freedom Trail Foundation in Boston, chats with Nichole about their Historic Holiday Strolls that are running until the end of the year, and shares some fun facts you may not have known about our city’s past!
While we often feel the urge during the holiday season to donate more to charity than we usually would, food insecurity doesn’t care what time of the year it is. It’s a major issue here in Massachusetts, and food banks around the Commonwealth are really feeling the stretch. Thousands of families in Western Massachusetts alone are struggling to put healthy food on the table each and every day, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in Chicopee is a crucial part of the pipeline to make sure as many people as possible get access to nutritious meals. Executive Director Andrew Morehouse talks with Nichole about their efforts and shares details about how you can help them keep going.
Most people have a cell phone and digital presence these days, and it's hard to avoid using banking, communication, and travel online platforms. For survivors of domestic violence, these phones and digital connections can also serve as critical lifelines, but they are often compromised and manipulated by abusers who are trying to force them to stay in dangerous relationships. A first-in-the-nation program in Rhode Island hopes to educate and promote digital safety for survivors. Nichole speaks with AT&T's Atlantic States President, John R. Emra, Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center VP Gina Scordino, and Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association Executive Director Sid Wordell about their efforts to keep people safe online.
November is National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, and here in Massachusetts, thousands of young people find themselves struggling to find a safe space to lay their head each night, something that's becoming even more difficult as we make our way into the winter months. Bridge Over Troubled Waters in Boston is a non-profit working with young people experiencing homelessness in Greater Boston to ensure they have a safer, brighter future ahead. President and CEO Elisabeth Jackson returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the factors fueling this trend, and how you can help them assist these young people as they turn their lives around.
Since the 1980's, demand has been growing for the comprehensive assistance that Women's Lunch Place on Newbury Street in Boston offers women experiencing homelessness. As more and more women find themselves without a place to call home, the day shelter opens its doors to offer a warm meal, clean clothes, a fresh shower, and much more. They're now asking for help to get some critical repairs done so they can keep offering this help for decades more. CEO Jennifer Hanlon Wigon joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about their mission and need.
Food safety is all over the headlines right now, and not just because we're getting ready to make our Thanksgiving feast. Not one, but three E. coli outbreaks have been making the news, and there are a lot of questions about how these outbreaks happen. Dr. Shira Doron, Chief Infection Control Officer at Tufts Medicine, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the outbreaks and offer advice on food safety through the holidays.
While we have yet to see some snow, that's not stopping many of us from decorating and getting into the holiday spirit! The city of Peabody is working with local businesses, including Granite Coast Brewing Company, to hold their annual Holiday Stroll on Saturday, November 30th. Plenty of fun activities are planned, and there will be all kinds of snacks to enjoy, too! Granite Coast Marketing Manager Amy Luckiewicz shares details about the event with Nichole on this week's show.
If you haven't started your holiday shopping yet, you are ceretainly not alone. We're getting into peak shopping season, but you may not be as willing to shell out cash this year on presents due to high prices and inflation. Each year, Boston-based Deloitte does a survey on our spending trends, and the results may be surprising. Anthony Jardim, a Principal at Deloitte, joins Nichole to break down the numbers and trends.
November is National Entrepreneurship Month, and this is the time when we shout out all our small business owners working hard in our communities to chase their dreams. It's difficult work and comes with a lot of challenges, but many owners say it is just as rewarding and completely worth it. Steven M. Stroum of Framingham has had quite a bit of experience and is sharing his dynamic story through his memoir, "Success and Self-Discovery". He talks with Nichole about his journey and offers up some advice for those who want to start on their own entrepreneurial path.
With so many veterans facing mental health challenges and isolation stemming from their time in service, they often find they can't access the meaningful connections they need to stay in a healthy place. Sunday, November 17th is National Warrior Call Day, a time when we take a few minutes to reach out to the veterans and service members in our lives and ask them how they are really doing. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is a co-sponsor of the Senate Resolution marking the day, and she joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about it.
When you hear talk about hospice, you're usually talking about humans, not pachyderms. However, on the South Coast, Ruth the elephant, who's been living for decades at the Buttonwood Park Zoo, is entering hospice as she nears the end of her life. Ruth has been a highlight at the zoo for generations, with residents from all over the South Coast and beyond coming to spend time with her. Zoo Director Gary Lunsford talks with Nichole about her health conditions and the decision to transition her care.
Whether you're taking part in Medicare Open Enrollment for the first time or reviewing your current plan, there are plenty of changes that can be difficult to navigate. Renee McInnes, CEO of NVNA and Hospice in Norwell, is here on the show share valuable insights on how to maximize your benefits, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions on coverage for the upcoming year.
New Bedford's fishing industry has been a cornerstone of the South Coast economy for centuries. It's also led the city to become a melting pot of traditions and culture, as people from all over the world come to the city to find their way into the industry. This month, the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is opening a new exhibit to focus on those workers' stories called "Casting a Wider Net". NBFHC Director Laura Orleans and Project Manager Emma York join the show this week to share the details of this comprehensive exhibit.
If you're finding yourself up doomscrolling until 2:00 in the morning, grinding your teeth, or fighting a lot more with people on the other side of the aisle, you are far from alone. Polls show the majority of Americans are dealing with some kind of election-related stress, and it's taking a toll on us as we approach this consequential vote. Tony Cunningham, psychologist and Director of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center's Center for Sleep and Cognition, shares tips and healthy coping mechanisms on this week's show, and talks with Nichole about the psychological drivers behind all this animosity and stress.
While the weather in recent days has been incredibly warm, even record-breaking at times, winter is coming sooner than later. Experts say now is the time to get your heating system ready and make repairs, but what if money is tight and you're worried about paying for your heating bills? Enter the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, which offers much more than just financial assistance to families in need. Beth Ann Strollo, CEO of Quincy Community Action Programs, breaks down the details with Nichole this week.
Girl Scout cookies can be incredibly addictive right out of the box, but imagine them transformed into a completely different type of tasty dessert! That's the assignment for a group of local bakers and chefs who are coming together in Boston's Seaport later this month for the "Cookies and Cocktails" event to benefit the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. Valerie Nin, Executive Pastry Chef at Grill 23 in Boston, is one of the chefs competing in this tasty event. She joins Nichole on this week's episode to talk about the event, her idea for the competition, and the Girl Scouts.
Utilizing public transit systems can be challenging for those who are visually impaired. Keolis North America, the company that runs the MBTA Commuter Rail, is rolling out a new partnership with an app called Navilens to help bridge the accessibility gap. Giant, colorful QR codes are being put up around certain commuter rail stations to help disseminate information through the app, and Adam Ross, Manager of Customer Experience at Keolis, explains how the system works to Nichole on this week's episode.
The transition back to civilian life can be rocky for some veterans. It's critical to ensure they have a dedicated support system in place to help, but, unfortunately, many fall through the cracks. There's a brand new veterans center in Plymouth where veterans can access comprehensive services to help them address their unique needs and get set up for success. Charles Gagnon, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Massachusetts, talks with Nichole this week about their work with the state to get the center up and running, and everything they have to offer.
Halloween is the busiest time of the year in Salem, with people coming from all over the world to take part in Haunted Happenings. You may not have known this, but Salem, for a time, was known as home to the Ouija board. A Danvers-based board game company recently came out with an update to this spooky game which pays tribute to Salem's deep history. Phil Orbanes, Co-Founder of Winning Moves Games, shares details about the game and the company's deep connection to a well-known gaming giant.
Lung cancer is the one of the most dangerous forms of cancer that exists. Here in the US, it is the leading cause of cancer deaths each and every year, and often, people don't realize they have it until it's too late. Hildy Grossman's diagnosis caught her by surprise, and as a performer, she decided to use her experience to start Upstage Lung Cancer, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness and funding to fuel research to find a cure. Hildy shares her dynamic story with Nichole, along with details about the impact they've already made to bring an end to this insidious disease.
Some of Boston's civic leaders are getting ready to pack their bags and head back to school, but not in the way you'd think. City councilors, state and federal lawmakers, community leaders and many others are teaming up with 826 Boston for their very first Civic Leaders Week of Tutoring, which runs from October 21-24. 826 Boston is a Roxbury non-profit dedicated to helping students find their voice through creative, thoughtful and educational writing, and Executive Director Corey Yarbrough talks with Nichole about their mission, their plans for the tutoring week, and the work they do with students in some of Boston's underserved neighborhoods.
The heartbreak and destruction in the Southeast in the wake of Hurricane Helene is overwhelming. Hundreds are dead and the damage is nothing short of catastrophic. An untold number of people will have to find a way to start all over again, and that also includes animal rescuers. The MSPCA has been working since the storm hit to offer whatever help they can to keep animals safe. Mike Keiley, the Vice President of Animal Protection at the MSPCA, talks with Nichole about their efforts and what you can do to assist.
A scam email has been going around in recent weeks that has been so concerning, several local police departments have issued warnings about it. The scammer tells you that they're able to spy on you through your computer or your phone, and they then threaten to release a bunch of info about you if you don't pay up. How do these emails work? Who is behind all this? Why is this one making such a mark? Professor Amir Houmansadr at UMass Amherst breaks this down with Nichole and talks about how you can protect yourself against these scammers.
With many adults in Massachusetts struggling with food insecurity, Daily Table has set up several non-profit grocery stores in Greater Boston to try and connect families with fresh, healthy food at a price that won't break the bank account. One of their most popular programs provides shoppers on SNAP with a significant discount on fruits and vegetables, but that program has unexpectedly been stopped. Sasha Purpura, CEO of Daily Table, talks with Nichole this week about what happened and how the community can help make sure everyone can stay nourished.
King's Chapel is a must-see stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston. It's been an active church for hundreds of years, and there's so much history to take in, including the stories of the families buried in their crypt. The church is embracing the eerier side of history through the Halloween season, offering special after-hours crypt tours where you'll be led by candlelight. Gianna Russi, History Program Director at the Chapel, joins Nichole to talk about all the spooky details.
Hundreds of people in recovery are expected to gather at Carson Beach in South Boston on October 5 for the Shatterproof Walk. Shatterproof is a Connecticut-based non-profit that works to stop the stigma surrounding substance abuse and addiction by bringing people together in community. They also provide critical resources for people who want to find help and get on the road to recovery. Kirsten Seckler, Marketing Director for Shatterproof, shares information about the upcoming walk and Shatterproof's mission.
Next week, Pine Street Inn in Boston will be holding a special voter registration drive at their 140 Clarendon complex. This drive is all about challenging misconceptions about the rights of those who are unhoused to cast votes in the upcoming election, and helping everyone who wants to vote get registered to do so. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll is also scheduled to make an appearance! Lyndia Downie, Executive Director at Pine Street Inn, is back on the show with all the details.
The heat of the summer is starting to fade, and now that autumn has arrived, we're getting into a season full of foliage, apple picking, and hiking - complete with tasty warm meals to keep you going throughout the day! Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk leads hikes around New England for the Appalachian Mountain Club, and he returns to the show this week to talk about his recent trips, recommendations, the state of the restaurant industry, and bar pizza.
Each and every holiday season, the Dover, NH Fire Department is able to hand out toys to hundreds of families thanks to the generous gifts to the department's Toy Bank, which has been running for decades. Now, this year's holiday mission is in jeopardy due to a devastating flood. Firefighter and paramedic Mike Kilday joins the show this week to talk about how you can help.
The crisp days of fall are starting to settle in, and that means it's time to celebrate the cranberry harvest! Each year in Harwich, the community comes together for the Harwich Cranberry Arts and Music Festival, where you can find unique arts and crafts from local artisans, performances from New England bands, and all the tasty food you can eat. Kathy Kirch and Bob Weiser share all the details on this week's show.
For more than 40 years, King Richard's Faire in Carver has been the place for Renaissance lovers to step back in time to sixteenth century living, complete with jousting, artisans, costumes, performers, musicians, and those big turkey legs you can snack on. Aimée Shapiro Sedley, the Chief Operating Officer of the Faire, joins Nichole to talk about what's in store for this year's event.
While Salem's usually known this time of year for getting a bit spooky, there's a lot of excitement for another big festival, and this one's all for the lovers of the written word! This year's Salem Literary Festival runs from September 4-8, both online and in-person, with all sorts of fun and informative events for bibliophiles and aspiring writers. Nichole speaks with Jean Marie Procious, Executive Director of the Salem Athenaeum, author Betty Cayouette, and WBZ-AM alum/Salem Lit Fest Committee Member Diane Stern about this family-friendly event!
Late summer is a great time to enjoy an evening walk on the beach, a campfire after dinner, Friday Night Lights, or grilling on the back porch. Unfortunately, mosquitoes and the viruses some of them are carrying are making it a lot harder to enjoy those simple pleasures these days. West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been in the headlines lately, and Nichole talks with Massachusetts State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown to answer some of the big questions surrounding this growing public health problem.
In the coming weeks, 18 men who are incarcerated at the Norfolk County Correctional Center will be learning some serious kitchen skills through a new collaboration between the Snapchef Foundation and the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office. The aim is to help these justice-involved individuals get on the right path after they're released with these culinary skills under their belt and a clear path to a new career. Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott and Carley Snopkowski at SnapChef talk with Nichole about this new program and why it's so important to set these people up for success.
There are all kinds of therapies out there to help what ails you - art, music, animals, and much more - but have you heard of surf therapy? Gnome Surf is a non-profit working on the South Coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and their mission is to help people who are neurodivergent, disabled, suffering from PTSD, and many others reduce their anxiety, improve their focus, and learn how to love the water. COO Jen Potter joins the show this week to talk with Nichole about their efforts and how this special therapy is changing lives.
The emergency shelter crisis in Massachusetts has reached a critical stage. State officials, including Governor Healey, have made moves to limit just how long families can utilize the shelter system, saying the influx of migrants and residents using the system has pushed it to a breaking point. Agencies like Heading Home in Boston have been working tirelessly to uphold the state's "Right to Shelter" law and ensure as many people as possible have a roof over their head. Heading Home CEO Danielle Ferrier joins Nichole this week to talk about the situation and what needs to happen to turn this concerning trend around.
A big change is on the way over the next few months for two long-time local zoos. John Linehan has led the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham - known together as Zoo New England - for decades. Now, he says it's time for him to step aside. John returns to the show to talk with Nichole about his work in conservation, why he thinks now is the time to leave, and the beloved animals he's been able to forge lasting connections with over the years.
Communities along the shores of the Merrimack River, and the health of the people who live in them, are the focus of a new study by a research team at Boston University. The study focuses on "combined sewer overflows", events that are triggered by heavy rains and severe weather that send thousands of gallons of harmful bacteria and sewage into the river. Dr. Beth Haley, a BU URBAN Trainee, joins Nichole this week to talk about the impact of these overflows on residents and what can be done to mitigate this problem.
It's been decades since World War II, a conflict that shaped the world as we know it today. You can learn about it in history books, photographs, and newsreels, but you can also get up close and personal with some of the vehicles that were right there on the battlefield alongside the soldiers who fought for freedom against the Axis alliance. The American Heritage Museum in Hudson is hosting a special tank demonstration August 17-18, and Hunter Chaney, Director of Marketing at the Museum and Collings Foundation, joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about this educational, fun event.
There are lots of very good dogs with jobs out there, helping people with physical and mental disabilities live more accessible lives. Through the years, the folks at NEADS World Class Service Dogs in Princeton have noticed more and more people are trying to pass off their pets as legitimate service dogs, which can put businesses, public facilities, and cultural centers in a bit of a bind. Cathy Zemaitis, the Chief Development and Programs Officer at NEADS, joins Nichole to talk about their new "Red Vest" initiative which offers information and training to help tackle this sensitive problem.
Shakespeare fans have been flocking to Boston Common for years to take in the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company's summer productions. From the Bard's best known classics to some lesser known titles, the performers do this night after night for free in hopes of boosting accessibility to the arts. Now, the Company is taking its next step, putting its own spin on a Christmas classic for the very first time. Founding Artistic Director Steven Maler joins Nichole this week to talk about their Common production, "A Winter's Tale", and their efforts to expand their offerings into the winter season.
Cinema fans have made their way to the Berkshires for nearly 40 years to take part in the Berkshire Jewish Film Festival, watching thought-provoking movies that highlight Jewish culture, history, and contemporary issues. The event is even more poignant this year amid the hostage crisis in the Middle East and a resurgence of anti-Semitism around the country, including here in New England. Artistic Director Beth Kruvant has details about this year's lineup and panelists, and talks with Nichole about the importance of such an event for the local Jewish community.
We're almost halfway through the 20's (the 2020's, that is), but if you want to take a trip back in time to the 1920's, the Trustees of Reservations can help you out with that. Their "Roaring Twenties Lawn Party" returns to the Crane Estate in Ipswich August 3 and 4, showcasing all things 1920's like jazz music, swing dancing, vintage clothes, classic cars, and much more! Trina Schell, the Public Programs and Volunteer Manager at the Trustees, joins Nichole to talk about this festive event.
The heat and humidity have been downright oppressive at times around New England lately, and it's hard for humans to stay cool in such conditions. For dogs and cats, it's that much more complicated thanks to their thick fur and body development. Each summer, however, many pets come down with heatstroke, or even die, because they are left in a hot car - even for just a few minutes. Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, talks with Nichole about their "Too Hot for Spot" campaign and offers some critical tips to help keep your pet safe.
If you visit Boston's iconic Public Garden frequently, you might be familiar with the Garden's stunning willow trees that line the lagoon. Many have been there for decades, and that was the case for one of the most beloved trees of all: 3-D-09, which was recently taken down due to disease after growing there for more than a century, watching the city change dramatically around it. Liz Vizza, President of the Friends of the Public Garden, returns to the show to talk about the tree's history, why it was such a standout, and the Friends' plan to preserve the willows that remain.
It's almost time to party in Boston's South End! New England's longest-running Latine culture festival returns with an incredible musical lineup, tasty food, a parade, and plenty of fun. Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción's "Festival Betances" is all about inclusion, community, and expression.. IBA's CEO, Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, returns to the show with all the details about this special event.
Many dogs work for the Boston Police Department each and every day, but the department has never had a comfort dog - until now! Copper the dog is BPD's first ever comfort dog, and she's in training with her handler, Officer Tim Wilson. Nichole talks with Officer Wilson, BPD Chief of Communications Mariellen Burns, and Copper about their training journey and her role in the community.
We're far gone from the days of dial-up internet, and you'd think that everyone here in Massachusetts has access to reliable, high-speed broadband connections for work, play, and school. Unfortunately, that's not the case, but there is a new effort to get more information about where those gaps are around the Commonwealth. Jody Jones, the Senior Program Director at the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at the MassTech Collaborative talks with Nichole about the importance of closing the "digital divide", and shares information about their new portal where you can weigh in on access.
It's all fun and games these days in downtown Malden! The city has been putting a lot of effort into creating a gamer's paradise around the Malden Center MBTA stop, continually growing the "Gaming District" each and every year with more fun offerings. They say there is something for everyone, from the casual gamer to a console legend. Kevin Duffy and Tess Young join Nichole this week to talk about the initiative and how they're working to bring in even more exciting experiences.
The Sumner Tunnel restoration project has been going on for some time, and you might remember last summer's closure that lasted nearly two months, causing major delays around Logan Airport and East Boston. MassDOT says they have to shut it down again for a few weeks so crews can get back in there and complete a good chunk of road work without having to worry about traffic or lane closures. Once it's all done, Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver says we'll see the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the project. He joins Nichole this week to share the details for commuters.
You may not think about your local water, sewer, or electricity department when you think about hackers and cybersecurity problems. Unfortunately, federal officials say they're starting to see more and more of our utilities getting hit by cyber threats, often from hackers connected to places like Russia, Iran, and China. The Mass Cyber Center works with utilities, schools, businesses and government agencies to make sure they are protected against threats and train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Director John Petrozzelli returns to the show to detail these threats and talk about the resources in place to secure our systems.
School's out for summer, and spirits are high at the Discovery Museum in Acton - not only because kids are having a blast in the space, but also because they are the recent recipient of a highly esteemed award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services! The museum is known for its efforts to embrace sustainability and inclusivity while providing local children a place to learn and grow. CEO Marie Beam talks with Nichole about the new award and their summer offerings.
Food insecurity has been a growing problem in Massachusetts for years, especially since the start of the COVID pandemic. Inflation hasn't helped, with food prices skyrocketing at the grocery store and at local restaurants. A new report from the Greater Boston Food Bank in collaboration with Mass General Brigham takes a closer look at the factors driving this concerning trend. Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of the Food Bank, and Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at the Mass General Hospital for Children, break down the highlights of the report with Nichole and share resources for those who are in need.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is holding this year's "Out of the Darkness" overnight fundraiser walk right here in Boston. It's a critical fundraiser for the organization which works to provide resources for those who are struggling and hold space to have difficult conversations around a subject that still has a heavy stigma attached to it. People from all walks of life will come together for this event to share their stories, grieve, empathize, smile, and form connections throughout the 16-mile course. Erin Kenny, Overnight Senior Manager at the Foundation, joins Nichole to talk about the upcoming event and how the Foundation shines a light on mental health.
We love our "Dirty Water" here in Massachusetts - that, of course, being the nickname for the Charles River, which has been infamous over the years for its polluted state. These days, though, thanks to the work of many environmental groups, including the Charles River Conservancy, the water is much clearer - to the point where you can actually swim in it! The Conservancy's "City Splash" event is coming up, whcere you can grab a floatie, dip your feet, dog paddle, or do a killer cannonball into the river to cool off on a hot summer day. Laura Jasinski, Executive Director of the Charles River Conservancy, talks with Nichole this week about the state of the Charles and this exciting event.
It's the perfect time of year for kids to grab their bikes and get out to explore the world around them, be it a city street or some nearby woods. While many young people grow up with access to bikes, not every child has that same opportunity, and that's where Mutt Society comes in to help. They team up with fellow bikers to fix trails, support young athletes, and get bikes into the hands of underserved young people, including at an upcoming event in Pathways in Lynn. Trent Sanders, co-founder of Mutt Society, joins us to talk about how you can help them make sure every child has a bike to enjoy.
Pets of all shapes and sizes fill a critical role for seniors, providing them support, care, and companionship. However, having a pet doesn't come cheap, especially with all the bills that pile up: food, grooming, toys, leashes, veterinary care, the works. Many seniors on fixed incomes find it difficult to keep up with those bills, and that's where ElderPet comes in to help. They work with seniors on the New Hampshire Seacoast to ensure they have everything they need to make sure their beloved pets stay by their side for as long as possible. Jerilee Zezula, Treasurer of ElderPet, joins us to talk about their history and efforts, and what you can do to keep them going.
Young people around the nation are struggling with a mental health crisis that's only been exacerbated since the height of the COVID pandemic. Anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts are nothing new to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and young people are often more willing to open up about their mental health struggles. The NAN Project is working one-on-one with young people, their schools, their families, and even local law enforcement to offer support and solutions. Jake Cavanaugh, Executive Director of The NAN Project, joins Nichole this week to tell their story and share details about their efforts in schools around Massachusetts.
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off of the summer travel season, and it's important to make sure that your vehicle is in tip-top shape as you head on out your adventures. Mark Schieldrop at AAA Northeast spoke with Nichole for a few minutes about early summer vehicle maintenance and what you should focus on for a quick checkup.
Veterans around the nation, including right here in New England, are finding themselves facing mental, physical, and emotional battles as they try to re-adjust to life at home. Soldier On in Pittsfield wants to ensure those who gave so much for our country have everything they need, and that their service and sacrifices are never forgotten. They're committed to finding or creating permanent housing, health care, mental health services, and much more for veterans around the Northeast. CEO Bruce Buckley stops by the show this week to share all the details with Nichole and talk about how veterans in need can find help.
Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción, a community organization in Boston's South End that has been supporting Latinx residents for decades, is about to break ground on its new home: La CASA, a new arts and culture center that hopes to amplify voices and ideas not just in Boston, but also serve as a space to bring New England's Latinx communities together. IBA CEO Vanessa Calderón-Rosado stops by the show this week to talk with Nichole about their mission, plans for construction, and the work IBA is doing to help protect and uplift Boston's Latinx residents.
While Massachusetts has some of the best health care in the world, there are still stark disparities when it comes to Black maternal health. Mass General Brigham is addressing these concerns through its "United Against Racism" initiative, and one of the methods the health care system is working to reduce these disparities is through the use of doulas. Dr. Allison Bryant, Associate Chief Health Equity Officer at Mass General Brigham, joins Nichole this week to talk about the "Birth Partners Doula" project, the benefits doulas can provide for those giving birth, and how the project is going so far.
May is Haitian Heritage Month, which makes this the perfect time for Boston's new Haitian cultural center, the Touissant L'Ouverture Cultural Center, to open its doors in the West End. Nestled in Lovejoy Wharf, the Center promises to offer education, information, music, arts, and so much more for Boston's growing Haitian community. Dr. Elizabeth Louis, a member of the Executive Committee at TLCC, shares the vision for the center with Nichole on this week's episode, and also has details on the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony.
Now that spring is here, it's time to take a hike! Or several. New England has everything you could possibly want when it comes to nature, all within a couple hours' drive. We have no shortage of restaurants for a post-hike nosh, too. Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show to talk about his excursions with the Appalachian Mountain Club, his latest recommendations, and closures around the area.
In April, to mark Earth Week, state officials in Massachusetts announced a new $775,000 grant will be used in the coming months to put more air sensors in place around the Commonwealth, with a special focus on "environmental justice" communities - low-income and under-served cities and towns that often feel the worst impacts of pollution and climate change. MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple has details about the plan and how they hope to use the data to put policy in place that will improve air quality for those communities.
Two mothers on the South Coast of Massachusetts are teaming up to help children with special needs enjoy the outdoors like so many other kids do: biking! Alissa DeSousa and Lindsay Best-Greenspan both have children with special needs, and they were able to see first-hand the difference adaptive bikes made in the kids' lives. Now, they're on a mission to make sure as many children as possible can have access to one. They join Nichole this week to talk about their efforts, their inspiration, and how you can help them reach their goal.
For more than 35 years, supporters of the Jimmy Fund and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have walked each year along the Boston Marathon Course from Hopkinton to Boston, raising money and spirits to find a cure for cancer. This year's course will look a little bit different, but that doesn't mean the mission will be any different this time around. Jimmy Fund Vice President Suzanne Fountain stops by the show to talk about this change to the course, how the fundraising makes a difference, and what you need to know if you want to take part in this year's Walk.
Erosion on Cape Cod is certainly nothing new, but in recent years, the Atlantic Ocean has been chewing up more and more of the shoreline. These tidal troubles are forcing communities to think ahead to a future without some of their most beloved shoreline properties, and that problem is front and center at the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, where the consistent erosion has forced the Fish and Wildlife Service to demolish their long-standing Visitor Center. Refuge Manager Rick Nye talks with Nichole this week about their decision to take down the building, his concerns for protected wildlife, and how they're trying to get ahead of Mother Nature.
For generations, potable water from the Quabbin Reservoir has been enjoyed by residents in dozens of cities and towns in central and eastern Massachusetts. However, many communities that line the reservoir don't have access to this precious resource, and as a new study looks to expand the MWRA network, many Quabbin-area residents feel they're not getting proper recompense for providing this water to much of the Commonwealth. Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester) says it's time to change that. She joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about her new bill on Beacon Hill that she hopes will create more equity when it comes to water distribution from the Quabbin.
After four years off due to COVID, Japan Festival Boston is back! Later this month, Boston Common will be home to the city's largest festival dedicated to all things Japanese culture: food, kimono, origami, tea ceremonies, ikebana, cosplay, and so much more. Ara Mahar, the PR manager for the festival, joins Nichole this week to talk about all this free family-friendly event has to offer.
Homelessness can impact anyone, and it doesn't always take much to get you to that point - even one or two life events can completely up-end your path. John Lane is someone who knows that all too well. John was living a comfortable life when addiction struck and took him down a path of very hard lessons. Now, John has come full circle, and he's teamed up with Pine Street Inn to use his life experience to help others who are struggling. John is on the show this week to tell his story, offer advice, and share information about Pine Street Inn's permanent supportive housing services.
With just months until the November elections, the campaigns are heating up, and so is the political rhetoric, both on and offline. Election interference on social media is nothing new at this point, but another major player is making its presence known for this election cycle: artificial intelligence. Dr. Weiai "Wayne" Xu, Associate Professor at UMass Amherst, focuses his courses and research on political communities and discourse online, along with artificial intelligence's impact on how we disseminate and learn information. He talks with Nichole this week about what we know, what we're still learning, and best practices for gathering the facts through the elections.
Childhood is full of pure, unadulterated joy through the little things - playing outside, eating a new snack, meeting friends, laughing at cartoons, and much more. For many families, those joys aren't as easy to come by due to poverty, food insecurity or chronic illness. Since 2006, the Dunkin Joy in Childhood Foundation has been working with franchisees, customers, local organizations and charities, and many others to offer special programs and resources for kids in need, and their families, too! Chair Victor Carvalho joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about their work and how you can help them spread joy to vulnerable kids around the region.
Living with breast cancer is an emotional, physical, and mental rollercoaster. One woman who knows that personally is Jacquie Bishop, a Boston resident who is fighting it for a second time. She's choosing to share her story of strength and vulnerability in hopes of removing the stigma from the mental and physical health struggles that come along with a diagnosis. She's also hoping to encourage people in the Black community to develop more proactive habits to take care of their breast health. Jacquie and Nichole discuss her diagnosis, treatment, and much more in this interview.
The U.S.S. Constitution - affectionately dubbed "Old Ironsides" - is a symbol of resilience, strength, history and honor. It stands out on the Boston skyline, and so does the woman at the helm! Commander Billie J. Farrell is the first woman to ever command the vessel, leading dozens of sailors, and she's had a storied career in the Navy. In April, she'll be receiving the "Third Lantern" award from Old North Illuminated at the "Lanterns & Luminaries" event. Commander Farrell talks with Nichole about her journey through the Navy, what it's like living as a transplant in New England, the legacy she wants to leave behind to women in the service, and the upcoming award ceremony.
Kids are incredibly resilient, but it can be hard to be strong all the time when you're suffering from a chronic condition like asthma, epilepsy, or heart problems. The same goes for their parents. Managing health conditions and trying to provide as "normal" a childhood as possible can take a toll on families. Luckily, Zebra Crossings in Dover, NH is there to help! Executive Director Deb Taylor and Program Director Emily Mundy join Nichole this week to talk about their special programs that not just help boost confidence and self-love in children with chronic conditions, but also give families some respite in a safe, understanding environment.
Embrace Boston recently released its "Harm Report", a comprehensive look at how slavery and centuries of systemic racism against Black Bostonians has impacted seven key aspects of life, including housing, transportation, healthcare and income. The report also outlines suggestions from the team at Embrace Boston on how the city can move forward in a more equitable manner and address the harms against the Black community. Vice President of Arts and Culture Elizabeth Tiblanc and Director of Digital Strategy and Production Gregory Ball return to the show this week to talk with Nichole about the research that went into the report and provide an overview of the results.
Among all the foods that are quintessentially "New England", maple syrup is close to the top! We're in sugaring season right now, and it doesn't last too long - just a matter of weeks. Farmers, sugar house owners, and hobbyists are working long hours to try and make the most of what the trees choose to provide this year. Melissa Leab of Ioka Valley Farm in Hancock is also a member of the Massachusetts Maple Producers Association, and she joins Nichole this week to talk about the sugaring process, how this year's warm weather is impacting the product, and how you can celebrate Maple Weekend at sugar shacks around the Commonwealth.
"Period poverty" is a global problem that's felt right here in Massachusetts. The rising price of menstrual hygiene products can severely impact the ability of women and girls to get an education, go to work, or even socialize with their families and friends. Asian Women for Health, based in Boston, works to shed light on, and break, systemic barriers that contribute to the lack of representation for women in the AAPI community when it comes to healthcare. Naheed Esar, Executive Director of AWFH, and Ceylan Rowe, founder of Fihri, talk with Nichole about their "Period Palooza" event, where sustainable period kits will help empower Asian women who have survived domestic violence and abuse.
If inflation's kept you from going out to your favorite neighborhood restaurant, Meet Boston says it can help! The organization has teamed up with dozens of Boston-area restaurants for this year's "Dine Out Boston" event, which runs March 10-24. You can find almost anything you're craving, from sushi to tapas to a quality steak, with prix fixe options that won't break the bank. Hilina Ajakaiye, Executive Vice President of Meet Boston, joins Nichole with all the delicious details.
Genealogical work isn't easy, but it can be especially difficult for people directly related to some of the millions of men, women, and children who were enslaved in pre-and-post colonial America through chattel slavery. Many Black Americans say they wish they knew more about those who came before them, and American Ancestors wants to help make that a reality through the new "10 Million Names" project. President and CEO Ryan Woods talks with Nichole about the importance of this work, how they're tracking down those whose names have been lost to history, and what you can do to help.
Many model railroad lovers have setups in their basement, a bedroom, or the garage, but in Roslindale, model train enthusiasts have spent decades creating a museum dedicated to the craft of creating intricate train layouts! The members of the Bay State Model Railroad Museum love to lay track, paint, build, and create, and the public will get soon get a chance to see their work up close and personal. Jeremy Hartwell, President of the Museum, joins Nichole this week to talk about their work, the layouts they have on display, and their efforts to connect with their community.
The Melrose Symphony Orchestra is the oldest continuously performing volunteer orchestra in the country, making its way through Season 106! The musicians have been practicing for their upcoming performance on March 2, which focuses solely on French composers. Conductor Yoichi Udagawa returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the lineup!
For years, the trio of Todisco brothers struggled with substance abuse, a battle which eventually led to two of the brothers losing their lives. Mario Todisco, however, was able to make his way through recovery, but it wasn't an easy road. Now, his daughter, Marissa Capone Todisco, has started a non-profit named after her father, "Mario's Mission", to help those on the road to recovery have an easier, more supportive journey. Marissa talks with Nichole this week about her family's history with addiction and how she's using their lessons to uplift members of her community.
Millions of lush, healthy trees make up New England's forests, and those trees could end up being a major player in the fight against climate change. For nearly a century, the New England Forestry Foundation has made it their duty to conserve and cultivate our woodlands, and as we look ahead to an uncertain future, the Foundation is embarking on a new five-year pilot program, hoping to utilize the very trees we enjoy to help reduce our carbon emissions. Bob Perschel, Executive Director of the Foundation, offers a forestry primer in this episode, along with an in-depth explanation of their "30 Percent Solution" to mitigate the impacts of our changing climate on the land we love.
Makeup and skincare influencers are a dime a dozen on social media these days. Normally, they're offering up advice for adults, but tweens are now embracing their advice - to the point where they're buying up skincare products that could actually be doing damage to their fragile, young skin. These "Sephora Kids" have been caught on camera trashing testers in makeup stores, and many adults are wondering what can be done to turn this trend around. Dr. Arianne S. Kourosh, Director of Community Health in the Massachusetts General Hospital Dermatology department, joins Nichole this week to talk about how these products can hurt young skin, the psychological impact of these influencers, and how parents can intervene in a healthy way.
Thousands of people come down with breast cancer each and every year here in Massachusetts, and while treatment is critical for recovery, it can also get very expensive, very quickly. Finances can become overwhelming, even for everyday purchases like food and housing costs. Enter Pawsitively 4 Pink. Founder Michelle Power talks with Nichole this week about their work to ease financial burdens for low-income breast cancer patients by helping them cover some of their essential costs. She also has details about their new statewide collaboration with Resinate to raise money and awareness.
After a turbulent couple of years, the Boston City Council is now in the hands of new leadership. At-Large Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune, the first Haitian-American to serve on the council, took over the role of President in January. Council President Louijeune joins Nichole this week to reflect on her inauguration and path to the presidency, talk about current events and her plans to bring integrity and accountability to the Council, and lay out what her priorities are for her term.
The Girl Scouts have been a fixture across America for more than 100 years, and here in Massachusetts, dozens of troops help bring girls together each and every day to make memories. Barb Fortier, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, joins Nichole this week to talk about all the ways Girl Scouting can help young women make friends, learn critical life skills, enrich their self-esteem, and give back to their community. She'll also discuss her upcoming retirement after nearly a quarter-century of service, and a discussion on Girl Scout cookies is also on the agenda!
With the wet, snowy, gray, dreary weather we've been having lately, a session in a steamy sauna would be the perfect thing to warm up! Unfortunately, access to saunas can be out of reach for many, but CultureHouse in Somerville's changing that with its new pop-up Winter City Sauna on Boston's City Hall Plaza, which is open until early March. Aaron Greiner of CultureHouse has all the details about the sauna, other projects CultureHouse is involved in around Boston, and their mission to help residents of the Boston area connect.
Have you been walking through downtown Boston lately and noticed a few things that seem... out of place? A girl on a swing, hovering over an alley? Two massive clown heads wedged between two buildings? How about a unicorn in a box? It's all part of a brand new public art exhibit called WINTERACTIVE, a partnership between the city of Boston and artists in Quebec, Canada. Michael J. Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District, talks about all the exhibit has to offer and why he believes this will encourage more people to visit the Hub.
Usually, when you hear of treatments for substance abuse, you think of rehab, therapy, and support groups, and you don't think of the dentist. However, many people who are struggling with addiction are also dealing with a major hurdle to recovery: poor dental health that's caused by the use of substances like drugs or alcohol. Dr. Hugh Silk and his team at UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester just received a new grant to work directly with those battling addiction in the Worcester area, helping them restore their dental health and develop more self-confidence. Dr. Silk joins Nichole this week to talk about why oral health is so important and his plans for this new grant.
After years in business, Jim Stevens realized it was time to make a massive career change, a change that would lead to thousands of children on the South Coast of Massachusetts getting assistance they desperately needed. He's the founder and CEO of Gifts to Give, an organization that relies on community volunteers of all ages to process and donate much-needed hygiene items, clothing, outerwear, and much more. The warehouse in Acushnet is always buzzing with activity, but the need is greater than ever, and Jim joins Nichole this week to talk about how you can help them help others.
Get ready, chocolate lovers! The Chocolate Expo is coming into town, and no matter how you like your chocolate, they promise you'll find something you can't get enough of. Not only will there be dozens of vendors offering tastes of chocolate-laced products and special giveaways, but attendees will also have a chance to meet some Hollywood stars from the original Wonka movie. Larry Rosenberg, Associate Producer of The Chocolate Expo and owner of Bacon Bites, talks with Nichole this week about all the sugary joy they have to offer during their upcoming event in Wilmington.
Each year for almost two decades, members of the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra's Intensive Community Program have collaborated with the Museum of African-American History to hold a special tribute to civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The ensemble performs spiritual and classical pieces which complement readings of some of Dr. King's powerful speeches and thoughts. This year's event is taking place at MIT in Cambridge. Catherine Weiskel, President and CEO of the BYSO, and Dr. Noelle Trent, President of the Museum of African-American History, join the show this week to talk about the upcoming concert and the influence of Dr. King's teachings on young people, even today.
Recently, Connie Merigo from the National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay joined the show to talk about a little seal named Cuyahoga that was in terrible shape, struggling with parasites, lice, digestive issues, and many other maladies. Connie returns to the show with a big update on Cuyahoga, and the two also talk about how the back-to-back winter storms we're struggling with are impacting marine animals, especially young seals and sea turtles.
Winter has arrived, and even though much of the region is about to get a fresh blanket of snow, the greenhouses at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston are still full of lush, green plants! The garden has opportunities for you to embrace nature all year long, no matter the weather, on their 170+ acres of manicured grounds. Grace Elton, CEO of the Garden, talks with Nichole about all the activities the Garden has planned for the winter months, including the upcoming "Orchids After Dark" event!
Did you resolve to make 2024 the year you'd get out there more often and volunteer? Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts could use you as a mentor. For 75 years, the organization has been connecting adults with young people who need support and guidance, even just a few hours a month, and as we segue out of the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts say that mentorship is more critical than ever. President and CEO Mark O'Donnell and "Big" mentor Ricardo Francis join Nichole this week to talk about their mission and the benefits of volunteering for both "Bigs" and "Littles".
This time of year, we hear all kinds of bells - jingle bells, sleigh bells, so on and so forth - but handbells are a beautiful instrument that never goes out of season. The Back Bay Ringers have had a busy holiday season, but they're gearing up for something big in 2024: their 20th anniversary! Griff Gall, the group's Artistic Director, joins Nichole on the show this week to explain this dynamic instrument and how it's played, and talk about the group's mission to uplift members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Thousands of people here in Massachusetts who live with autism or other disabilities connect each and every day with Northeast Arc! It's a non-profit based in Danvers that works to link people with disabilities to new opportunities, like job training, social gatherings, early intervention, and long-term family support. Tim Brown, Northeast Arc's Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer, joins the show to talk with Nichole about all the programs and information they have to offer, including their most recent Arc Tank event.
The Portsmouth Historical Society is celebrating the season with its annual gingerbread house exhibition, and these aren't your everyday cookie creations! The city's celebrating a special anniversary by honoring their neighbors through gingerbread, lovingly piecing together replicas of some of the city's most iconic buildings - and some you may not know about. Kait Smith chairs the event committee for the Historical Society, and she's a big lover of gingerbread herself. She joins the show to talk about the event, and also shares some tips on how to build the perfect gingerbread structure.
Here in Massachusetts, almost a third of people who find themselves in prison for a crime eventually re-offend and find themselves back behind bars. Experts say a major contributing factor is a lack of support for people leaving prison, something that My Brother's Keeper 617 is working to change in the city of Boston. Mario Rodrigues and Satero DaVeiga are part of a team that's launched a new program to help recently released inmates develop critical skills to join the trades and give them the resources they need to start a new phase of their life. Rodrigues and DaVeiga join Nichole this week to talk about the group's history, their new program, and the other ways they help the community.
With 2024 at our doorstep, your thoughts might turn to setting one, or several, New Year's resolutions. Whatever your goals - losing weight, getting a new job, setting a personal best in a race, or making your bed every day - it's important to make sure you're putting yourself in a position to succeed mentally, physically and emotionally. Professor Julie K. Norem from Wellesley College joins Nichole this week to talk about the psychology of New Year's resolutions: why we make them in the first place, the science of goal-setting, and how to treat yourself well as you work toward your goal.
Almost 20 years ago, Cherylann Walsh decided to make a change in her community, serving residents right out of her own home. That desire to help others has grown into Project Just Because, an organization in Hopkinton that makes sure everyone who needs a meal can get it, regardless of allergies, dietary restrictions, or family size. Project Just Because also works to keep residents safe, healthy, and full of joy through their programs. Cherylann and Erica Solitro join Nichole to talk about their efforts and how you can help them provide for Massachusetts families in need.
Earlier this month, a little harbor seal named Cuyahoga was rescued off the shores of Cape Ann. This small seal was in awful shape and is getting some much needed TLC at the National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay. Cuyahoga is one of many animals that find themselves stranded each year along the shores of New England. What do you do if you find a turtle or seal that's struggling? NMLC Executive Director Connie Merigo talks with Nichole about Cuyahoga's recovery and how you can help other animals in a similar bind.
When you think of robots, you may not necessarily think of them inside your body. A research team at Tufts University teamed up with Harvard researchers to do just that. They've discovered "anthrobots", tiny living robots made from human cells, and they say this could lead to major developments in modern medicine and healthcare. Prof. Michael Levin and Gizem Gumuskaya talk with Nichole about their research, the science and ethics of their discovery, and what they hope to see happen with this new creation.
Beautiful banners have been installed along Blue Hill Avenue in Dorchester, Roxbury and Mattapan. Each banner highlights one of Boston's Black female leaders - some you may know well, others you have yet to learn about. The public art project is the brainchild of Ed Gaskin, the Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets. It's a labor of love, and he talks with Nichole this week about how his vision to honor these powerful and beloved women is finally coming to fruition.
The holiday season is here, and while this is normally a time full of joy and togetherness, it can also be a time of extreme loneliness for seniors who may not be able to get out and about as much as they used to, or aren't receiving as many visits from family and friends. Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly in Boston engage with seniors in public and affordable housing all year long, helping them socialize with their neighbors and learn new skills. Nikki Shults, Executive Director of LBFE Boston, joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about their work and their holiday plans for local seniors.
The early winter darkness is here in New England, and that's got a lot of us settling in for the season. It's easy to sit at home, take more naps, get cozy... but it's also easy to slip into what's called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. It's not just a bad mood or the blues. Dr. Michelle DiBlasi, psychiatrist at Tufts Medical Center, talks with Nichole about what SAD is, how you can tell when you're dealing with it, and how to overcome it.
The Massachusetts emergency shelter system is officially overburdened, according to state data, and officials say they have to turn away families while putting them on a waitlist. While the ongoing migrant crisis is contributing to this, there are other factors forcing residents onto the streets, including inflation and the skyrocketing cost of housing. Pine Street Inn in Boston has been working for years to create more permanent supportive housing in the Boston area, hoping to uplift those who find themselves at their lowest and help them get back on their feet. Lyndia Downie returns to the show to update Nichole on their efforts and talk about what's fueling the Commonwealth's housing emergency.
As more companies look ahead to a more sustainable future, researchers are taking a closer look at how non-recyclable materials like plastic can become greener for their work. Xheme, a startup in Newton at UMass Amherst's Mount Ida Campus, has been working for years on special additives that are getting the job done, and could eventually revolutionize how we store substances like blood. Founder, President and Chief Scientific Officer Kumar Challa talks with Nichole about the science behind their additives and how UMass has helped them in their work.
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra has been wowing audiences with its unique blend of metal and holiday music for decades, and their work has become a classic Christmas music choice in many homes. The band is heading back out on tour this month to put on another round of shows that they hope will continue to break artistic boundaries. Jeff Plate, the original drummer for the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, talks with Nichole on this week's episode about what this year's tour has to offer, his local ties, the charity work the band does, and much more.
Millions of Americans suffer from at least one chronic condition, and the physical, mental, and emotional impacts of those illnesses can make it very difficult to navigate the fast-paced world of business. Lilly Stairs is a "serial entrepreneur" who knows about these difficulties first-hand, as she has multiple chronic conditions. Now, she's offering a space for other ambitious women in business to network, focus on their health, and find community. Lilly joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about the Chronic Boss Collective and all it has to offer, including in-person events here in Boston.
It seems like each trip to the store these days is getting more and more expensive, no matter what it is you're buying. That's likely to become even more amplified as we enter the most expensive time of the year: holiday shopping season, which is also starting earlier than ever. Deloitte Global recently released its forecast on holiday spending, and Evan Sheehan, Deloitte's Retail, Wholesale and Distribution Leader in Boston, breaks down the numbers with Nichole - they might surprise you!
Fall's here, and it's the perfect time to get out and explore the diverse beauty of our region in nature and on your plate! Marc Hurwitz of Boston's Hidden Restaurants and Boston Restaurant Talk returns to the show with his latest recommendations on fun fall hikes and restaurants to visit to fill up after. He also talks with Nichole about the latest restaurant openings and closings around the Boston area, and offers his thoughts on the state of the local restaurant industry.
November is National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, and here in Massachusetts, for many different reasons, thousands of young people are struggling to find shelter each and every night. Bridge Over Troubled Waters is working hard to connect with these young people and lend them a helping hand in hopes of helping them process, recover, and go on to thrive. President and CEO Elisabeth Jackson talks with Nichole about their efforts and their upcoming fundraising gala.
It's time to get spooky! Well, maybe not THAT spooky if you're having some Halloween fun with the kids. The Trustees of Reservations are hosting a long list of fun and frightening events for the entire family all over Massachusetts, everything from barnyard costume parties to eerie tours at the Old Manse. Catherine Shortliffe, Associate Director of Public Programming at the Trustees, joins Nichole to talk about some of their offerings.
New data out this month shows Black Bostonians not only have the highest rates of infant mortality - more than three times the rate of white infants - but they also have the highest rates of premature births and low birth weight. City officials say these stark inequities need to be addressed immediately. Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission, goes through the data in the report with Nichole, and discusses the city's plans to turn these trends around.
The Old North Church has stood proud in Boston's North End for 300 years, and it's probably best known for its role in Revolutionary War history. However, more than 1,100 bodies have been laid to rest over the years in the church's crypt, which recently underwent a major restoration project. Director of Education Catherine Matthews has details on the project, which is about to be completed with the final installation of the crypt's restored doors, and a look back at the famed church's impact on Boston.
As the cost of living skyrockets, families around the Commonwealth are feeling the strain, and leaning more on community services and non-profits like Catie's Closet in Dracut. Catie's Closet is being called on far more frequently these days for crisis response to help fight homelessness and child poverty while providing essentials for the growing influx of migrant children in Massachusetts. Their SOS Urgent Response Program Fund is now all but emptied. CEO and Co-Founder Mickey Cockrell joins Nichole this week to explain the sharp jump in need and what they need from the public to continue making sure every child is clothed and taken care of.
NVNA and Hospice in Norwell has been serving the South Shore community for more than 100 years, but this year, they are celebrating a big anniversary: the 10th year of their hospice home, the Pat Roche home in Hingham. CEO Renee McInnes talks with Nichole about NVNA's history, and the two get into a deeper conversation about what hospice can do for families, and how you know when it's time to consider it for a loved one facing life's biggest transition.
It's almost time for Medicare open enrollment, and it can be very confusing! From changing plans to costs and coverage, going through your options can quickly get overwhelming. Enter an expert: Mary Hsieh, the Head of Government Programs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Mary and Nichole break down the important information you need to know before open enrollment, which runs from October 15 through December 7, 2023.
The Black Economic Council of Massachusetts is hosting its annual Mass Black Expo in early October, a three-day event focused on networking, sharing information, and providing resources to help Black business owners thrive. BECMA's President and CEO, Nicole Obi, joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about the unique challenges Black-owned businesses face, not just in Massachusetts, but nationwide. She also has details on her organization's efforts to promote a more equitable and inclusive economy, and what the event has to offer for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Hundreds of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities have developed critical life skills and gained confidence through the "Threshold" program at Lesley University in Cambridge. The program has been around for decades, but it's about to get a big update. University President Janet Steinmayer's son, Ben, attended the program, and continues to flourish with the connections and expertise he learned through Threshold. They join the show this week to talk with Nichole about their experience, the history of the program, and the upcoming changes.
Chowder lovers, an upcoming event in New Bedford is just for you! For years, residents of the New Bedford area have made their way to the coast for the Chowderfest, a tasty event that helps people sample all the savory soups the South Coast has to offer. This year's no different, with the One SouthCoast Chamber hosting this year's 18th Annual Blount Fine Foods New Bedford Seaport Chowderfest on September 30. Katie Greene, Vice President of Marketing and Events at One SouthCoast, has all the details this week about this year's event.
Leaving the prison system, no matter how long one has been incarcerated, can be confusing, scary, and frustrating, with little support on the outside to help people re-integrate into society. The Essex County "Women in Transition" program is a minimum security pre-release program, helping women recovering from addiction make their way out of incarceration and start a healthy life. Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Murphy joins Nichole to talk about the program, their mission, and the program's impact.
Autumn arrives this weekend with yet another round of rain. Most of the summer has been wet, to the point where some cities are seeing close to record rain totals for the year, and it's not even October! What is causing all of this wet and humid weather? Plymouth State University Meteorology Professor Eric Hoffman breaks down the weather patterns we've been stuck in and offers some insight into what we can expect here in New England for the coming fall and winter months.
The city of Boston has lofty goals when it comes to climate, including a push to become a completely carbon-neutral city by the year 2050. There are several initiatives underway to work toward that goal, including a brand new program by Climate Culture Boston called "SHINE": Solar Helping Ignite Neighborhood Economies. Frank Lowenstein from Climate Culture Boston, a spinoff of Rare, returns to the show to talk about this new push to bring green jobs and renewable home energy to marginalized neighborhoods with the help of established community organizations.
Artisans in and around Attleboro are teaming up for a great cause: to fight food insecurity in their neighborhood. They're doing it using clay, glaze, a kiln, and a really good bowl of soup! Members of Empty Bowls Attleboro work throughout the year to create unique, stunning soup bowls to help generate income for local non-profits helping to feed those who are hungry. Sarah Mott and David Laferrier join Nichole this week to talk about their mission and their upcoming event.
If you're into food that's not just good for you, but also good for farmers and the local economy, you'll want to make your way to the Rose Kennedy Greenway on September 17th. That's when Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts is hosting its annual Boston Local Food Festival, and there will be all kinds of tasty treats to try! Kerry Kokkinogenis and Caroline Brocker from SBN Massachusetts have all the details on this week's episode, and they talk with Nichole about how the recent floods impacted local crops.
Honeybees play a vital role in keeping our plants and crops healthy, but experts say they're facing an increasing number of threats, both human and environmental. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has its very own program to help residents and professional beekeepers alike boost honeybee health! Chief Apiary Instructor Dr. Kim Skyrm is a hive full of knowledge about bees, and he joins Nichole this week with tips on how you can protect these special insects.
School districts around the Commonwealth, especially in rural areas, are struggling with budget cuts, classrooms that aren't fully stocked, and teachers reaching into their own pockets to pay for much-needed supplies. Many rural schools are facing some big-time problems, and while there's some help from Beacon Hill, State Senator Jo Comerford (D-Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester) says it's not enough. She joins the show this week to talk about her efforts to convince her fellow lawmakers to increase state funding and support for those communities.
Classrooms these days look far different than they did even just 10 years ago. Instead of pencils, overhead projectors and chalkboards, you'll find tablets, interactive whiteboards and laptops. Tech experts say innovative technologies in the classroom are here to say, including artificial intelligence. Dr. Sarah Kyriazis, Principal of the Wawecus Road School in Worcester, joins the show this week to talk about their new "Spark Academy" program, which hopes to create a "future-ready hub of innovation" at the school.
The Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry in Waltham got an eviction notice recently - and it's forcing them to leave their long-time quarters very quickly. Trouble is, they don't have anywhere to go yet, and the Middlesex Human Service Agency needs your help to find a space for them to set up shop so they can keep serving people in need all over the Boston area. CEO Robert Mills joins Nichole this week to talk about the eviction, the services they provide, and how you can help the soup kitchen and food pantry find a new home.
COVID's back on the scene, as more and more people start to test positive while we make our way out of the summer months. There are so many questions out there about where we go from here with the virus: do we get a new booster or wait? Should we be masking? What's going on with long COVID? Dr. Shira Doron, Chief Infection Control Officer over at Tufts Medical Center, joins Nichole this week to answer questions and offer her insight.
Women and BIPOC representation in business boardrooms is better than it's ever been, but there is still quite a lot of work to do. That's the story in a new report from Deloitte and the Alliance for Board Diversity called "Missing Pieces". It takes a closer look at diversity at Fortune 500 companies, specifically in their leadership, on both a state and national level. Nichole speaks with Jess Ackerman, an Audit Readiness Leader at Deloitte, about the survey and its findings.
In the new state budget Governor Maura Healey recently signed into law, there is a new program offering up some hope for adults here in Massachusetts who either want to go to college for the first time or finish a degree they may have had to leave behind. WBZ's Laurie Kirby spoke with Ray DePasquale, President of Massasoit Community College in Brockton, about this new program and the benefits of returning to get a degree, no matter your age.
Jaws has become a classic New England-centric movie over the years, but it turns out, behind the scenes, it was anything but easy to put together. In fact, it was so chaotic that a new comedy on the stage highlights all the production maladies. It's called "The Shark is Broken", and New England theater owner Bill Hanney is lending his talents to the show to make sure it's a resounding success. He returns to the show this week to talk about the show's journey to Broadway, along with what's happening these days at the North Shore Music Theatre.
Working families around New England and the country are struggling to find balance when it comes to child care. Not only is it more expensive than ever, but it's becoming more and more difficult to find a space for children in programs. Centers closing during the height of the pandemic made the problem that much worse, forcing parents out of the workforce. Politicians on both sides of the aisle say it's time to find a solution to this growing crisis. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) spoke with Nichole recently to share her thoughts on the situation.
Long-time residents of the South Coast of Massachusetts, especially New Bedford, grew up with Silmo syrup in their milkshakes, frappes and other treats. Decades ago, the business closed down, but New Bedford City Councilor Ian Abreu is bringing it back to life, while keeping it all in the family. He talks with Nichole on this week's show about how he's re-introducing his grandfather's recipes to a new generation, and what's coming down the pipeline from Silmo.
A coalition of businesses, activist groups, lawmakers and others around Massachusetts are teaming up to support a bill on Beacon Hill called "I AM", which hopes to expand free access to menstrual products in public places around the Commonwealth, including schools and prisons. Mass NOW is one of the advocacy groups that's part of the Massachusetts Menstrual Equity Coalition, and Executive Director Sasha Goodfriend joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about what the bill entails. She also dives into the prevalence of "period poverty" here in Massachusetts and the impact it can have on someone's life.
Toy Burton, a longtime Roxbury resident with deep ties to the neighborhood, realized one day that her community was missing something: resources to help them open up and be vulnerable about mental health problems and thoughts of suicide. Enter "DeeDee's Cry": a nonprofit she founded in 2017 to connect BIPOC residents of Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan and beyond to mental health and counseling resources that haven't always been accessible. Toy is also the woman behind the Roxbury Unity Parade, which celebrates and unifies the neighborhood each and every year. She joins the show this week to talk with Nichole about her mental health journey and her efforts to help those in need through her organizations.
It started as something you could find behind the doors at the veterinarian's office: xylazine, a drug that's most frequently used to sedate animals so they can be treated. Now, it's found its way into the illicit drug market far faster than anyone expected, and combined with fentanyl and other opioids, it's proving to be especially deadly. Julie Burns, President and CEO of Rize Massachusetts, talks with Nichole about their efforts to fund new research into test strips, another method of harm reduction that could potentially help to turn this crisis around.
In just a few weeks, a new store's going to be opening up in Dorchester's Bowdoin/Geneva neighborhood, but it's not your typical grocery store. It's a food co-op, owned collectively by the members of the surrounding community and the store's employees. John Santos, the General Manager and CEO of the Dorchester Food Co-Op, joins Nichole this week to talk about the benefits of a cooperative for a neighborhood, the buildout, their mission, and what they have to offer.
In just a few weeks, the world premiere of a rock opera is coming to the Company Theatre in Norwell, and it's a production that tells the story of a strong young woman you may have learned about in your history books: Joan of Arc. "Born To Do This" is the brainchild of Zoe Bradford, a playwright and co-founder of the Company Theatre. She returns to the show to talk about the show and her creative process.
The heavy rains have been seemingly non-stop throughout much of western New England, especially in Vermont, a state which has made national headlines for the devastation suffered through the recent floods. David Bonanno is a longtime actor at the Weston Theatre Company in Weston, Vermont, a short drive north of Brattleboro. He talks with Nichole about the impact of the floods and the resilience of small-town communities coming together to clean up.
Summertime is the perfect time for hikes, picnics, BBQ's, days at the beach - all sorts of outdoor excursions. We often bring a lot of single-use plastics like water bottles, food wrappers, and utensils with us, and a good amount of that plastic doesn't end up in the trash bin. It ends up in the ocean. Dr. Anja Brandon, the Associate Director of U.S. Plastics Policy at Ocean Conservancy, joins Nichole this week to talk about a new report detailing just how much plastic pollution is out there, and why recycling efforts aren't working the way we hoped they would.
You've been seeing billboards, ads, and news reports about it. The Sumner Tunnel that brings traffic from East Boston into downtown Boston is closing for almost two months straight. But why now? And what do crews have to do that will take two whole months, sparking some serious traffic troubles? MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver gives us a behind-the-scenes rundown of what's getting done in the tunnel, and details alternative travel methods for commuters.
After stints in the military, FBI, and the private sector, John Petrozzelli is taking the reins at the Mass Cyber Center, helping direct policy and education efforts when it comes to cybersecurity here in Massachusetts. He spent time this week with Nichole to talk about his ideas for his time at the Center, his background, and the Center's efforts to help protect people online.
Dialup internet access just doesn't cut it these days. We have so much to stream, send, and create! Reliable high-speed internet is a critical tool not just for socializing, but also for work and health care access, among many other areas. Rural areas have struggled to keep pace with the infrastructure, but that's changing in western Massachusetts. State Sen. Paul Mark (D-Becket) returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the plan to get rural towns connected.
While rare diseases often get left behind in the race for cures, a new approach from the National Institutes of Health hopes to make clinical trials more efficient, less expensive, and more accessible to patients who are suffering from rare genetic diseases. WBZ's Laurie Kirby spoke with Dr. Julie Gerberding, CEO of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, about the new "Bespoke" Consortium.
Both the state and federal COVID-19 public health emergencies recently expired, as vaccination rates rise and infection rates decline. Health officials say this doesn't mean COVID is no longer a concern - merely that it's made its way into an endemic phase. The Massachusetts Coalition for Health Equity says many people who have disabilities or are immunocompromised feel like they're being overlooked, left behind, and put in danger with the ending of the public health emergencies.
Two members of the Massachusetts Coalition for Health Equity join the show this week to talk with Nichole about their concerns: Lara Jirmanus, a physician at Cambridge Health Alliance, and Colin Killick, the Executive Director of the Disability Policy Consortium.
Getting your first bike as a kid opens up a whole world of freedom and fun, but it's not always easy for parents who are struggling to get by to provide one for their children. Mutt Society, a local group dedicated to promoting physical and emotional well-being through bikes, is teaming up with Pathways in Lynn to gift dozens of bikes to the children of Pathways students. Trent Sanders, Co-Founder of Mutt Society, joins Josh Shepherd, the Director of Student Services at Pathways, to talk with Nichole this week about the bike drive, their missions, and how you can help kids get outside to explore.
MASSPIRG recently teamed up with Environment Massachusetts to conduct the annual "Get The Lead Out" survey, and it appears the Bay State has a lot of work to do. Massachusetts received a C- in this report card, which took a closer look at what's being done to provide safe drinking water to students in schools around the Commonwealth. Deirdre Cummings, Legislative Director at MASSPIRG, joins the show this week to break down the report with Nichole and talk about efforts on Beacon Hill to help clean up our schools' water supplies.
In the days leading up to this year's Juneteenth holiday, Embrace Boston is returning with its "Embrace Ideas Festival". It's a celebration of Black culture, art, music, and thought-provoking ideas from the community about anti-racism work, equity, and Boston's future. This year's event is three days long, packed with events sure to inspire change and foster dialogue (and delight your taste buds, too!). Elizabeth Tiblanc, Vice President of Programs at Embrace Boston, talks with Nichole about this year's event and what Juneteenth means to the Black community.
The Boston Planning and Development Agency recently approved a plan for the Comfort Inn on Morrissey Boulevard in Dorchester to be transformed into permanent supportive housing for seniors. The project got some blowback from neighborhood groups and lawmakers, but Pine Street Inn says it's a critical step to help unhoused seniors make their way off the streets and rebuild their lives. Lyndia Downie, Executive Director of Pine Street Inn, talks with Nichole about the project, the fight over the Long Island Bridge, and their upcoming workforce development graduation.
Gaming can be a very beneficial tool when it comes to learning life skills. Guild Chronicles, based in Lexington, have created a special roleplaying game and educational program to help autistic and neurodivergent kids learn social-emotional skills. Andrew Harris, CEO and Founder of Guild Chronicles, joins Nichole this week to talk about the game and how Guild Chronicles works with schools and therapists to support young people and their development.
School's almost out for summer, and the City of Boston says it has more jobs available for young people than ever before! Their SuccessLink program connects young people with opportunities all over the city, including non-profits and at City Hall. Rashad Cope, Deputy Chief of the Worker Empowerment Cabinet and the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity, joins Nichole this week to talk about the program, and we also hear from a local teen about his experience. ALSO: Some big plans are in the works south of Boston to help kids who learn differently. South Shore Stars in Weymouth is opening up its own school for children who have dyslexia and other language-based learning differences! Executive Director Jen Curtis returns to the show with all the details.
With the cost of utilities so high, it seems like it would be a dream come true for someone to reach out at random and tell you they can help you lower your utility bills. The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office says many of these "competitive energy suppliers" are anything but a dream, and, in fact, over time, they can turn your budget into a nightmare. Nathan Forster and Elizabeth Anderson from the AG's office join Nichole on the show with information on how you can protect your wallet. PLUS: The Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts is connecting small business owners around the Commonwealth while offering resources to help them give back to their communities. One of those small business owners, Aelen Unan of Ninawa Zero Waste Clothes, talks about what sustainability means to her and how it's influenced her business.
While pregnancy and childbirth can be a joyous time full of excitement and exhiliration, that's not the case for every parent. Post-partum depression isn't just "baby blues", and it can turn very serious very quickly. The MassPPD Fund's mission is to provide resources and support for parents finding themselves in this scary place, and they're holding their annual "Flourishing" event May 13th. Former Boston morning show host Loren Raye is emceeing the event, and she joins Nichole with all the details. PLUS: Roxbury Community College is about to celebrate a major milestone birthday - 50 years serving the neighborhood, and the city of Boston at large, by promoting educational opportunities, diversity and equity. Jennie McDonald-Brown, the school's Executive Director of Development, has all the details about their three-day-long "Homecoming" celebration for alumni, and everyone from the neighborhood's invited to come celebrate!
Naloxone (aka Narcan) has proven to be a powerful tool in fighting the opioid epidemic. State officials in New Hampshire are launching a new program to make sure it's publicly available for anyone who needs it in a time of crisis. Jennifer Sabin, New Hampshire's Opioid Response Director, joins the show with details on the NaloxBoxes that are going up all over the Granite State. PLUS: The nation's oldest continuing all-volunteer orchestra is about to wrap up an incredible 105th season with their May Pops concert! Conductor and Music Director Yoichi Udagawa returns to the show to talk about the Melrose Symphony Orchestra's upcoming show. ALSO: Boston-based "Master Trainer" Jonathan Kroll is out with his first guidebook, "Preparing Leadership Educators". WBZ's Laurie Kirby spoke with him about his special leadership development program and how people can improve their techniques.
Community is everything, especially when you're living far from home. Drawing from the love they have for their Irish backgrounds, the founders of Mná Mheiriceá are working to create a new women's networking group in Boston not just for the Irish diaspora, but for all women. Megan Greeley joins the show with all the details. PLUS: Spring is here, and that means baby animals are coming into the world! Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield is holding their annual Baby Animals Festival. Nathaniel Silver, Executive Director and CEO of Hancock Shaker Village, has more on how you can get up close and personal with adorable piglets, chicks, lambs, and other cuties. ALSO: Forecasters at the National Weather Service are gearing up for stormy weather this summer, and they need your help on the ground! Bryce Williams, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Norton, joins Nichole with all the info you need to know about their upcoming round of SKYWARN classes.
Young people often feel left out of the conversations around recovery from substance abuse, even though more and more are finding themselves caught up in the grips of addiction. They need support and validation from people who "get it" and understand what they are going through. Enter Massachusetts Young People in Recovery, who's working hard to show people recovery is possible. Haley Barbieri, Program Director of MYPiR, joins the show this week to tell us about their efforts. PLUS: The wool's going to be flying in Waltham, with lambs, rams, ewes, and other animals on the grounds of Gore House. It's almost time for the annual Sheepshearing Festival, but it's about so much more than chasing around sheep. Emily Robertson, Marketing Manager at Gore Place, has all you need to know about this fun event!
Imagine calling 911 for a serious emergency, only to be told it could be 30, 45... even 60 minutes before help could get to you. There's a significant ambulance workforce shortage here in New England, and around the country, too - but it didn't develop right away. Rich Raymond, CEO of Armstrong Ambulance in Arlington, joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about how it's impacted not just his company, but the industry as a whole, and what needs to be done to turn this trend around. PLUS: Did you know doing your taxes here in Massachusetts could help stop animals around the Bay State from becoming homeless? It's true. The Massachusetts Animal Fund has been working hard for more than a decade to help spay and neuter efforts, and find furry friends a happy and healthy home. Sheri Gustafson from the Fund is on the show to talk about how you can help by simply filling out a line on your tax forms.
Now that spring's here, we're starting to make our way outdoors and travel around the region again, trying fun new foods and enjoying new experience. The regional restaurant industry looks very different now than it did before the pandemic. Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show to talk with Nichole about outdoor dining, ghost kitchens, staffing struggles, and much more - including his personal recommendations around the region. PLUS: Allergy season isn't messing around this year. It seems we're struggling with symptoms earlier than ever! Dr. John Foster, Chief Medical Officer at NEW Health in Boston, explains why this is happening and offers up some helpful tips to try and keep allergies from taking over your life this year.
A new public art project in Boston's Dorchester and Roxbury neighborhoods is showing off some special works of art by nine Black photographers. It's a collaboration between Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and WHERE ARE ALL THE BLACK PEOPLE AT, a grassroots organization dedicated to boosting representation of Black and Brown artists in art museums' permanent collections. Photographer and activist Archy LaSalle joins Nichole this week to talk about the bus stop art project and the work he's doing to promote diversity in New England's art scene. PLUS: With a variety of potential threats facing the region at any given time, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency recently teamed up with leaders around New England to launch a brand new training center for first responders and municipal employees. Dawn Brantley, Acting Director of MEMA, talks with Nichole about what this new center will do to help emergency managers respond more effectively to climate change, cyber attacks, storms, and much more.
After delays connected to COVID-19, a first-of-its-kind program is finally up and running for women incarcerated at the New Hampshire Correctional Facility for Women in Concord, NH. This "Prison Outreach Program" connects woodworkers with inmates to teach them important skills that can translate into a career, or hobby, once they leave custody and start over. Leah Woods and Lynn Szymanski join Nichole to talk about how the program is making a difference and how they're doing it with limited resources. PLUS: Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston say they have discovered a potential new weapon to be used against the COVID-19 virus: a "decoy drug"! Dr. Gordon Freeman, Professor of Medicine at DFCI, and Clinical Fellow Dr. James Torchia talk with Nichole about the science behind this, and what the decoy could mean for treatment moving forward, especially for immunocompromised people.
Since the late 1990's, National Consumer Protection Week has been a time for Americans to learn about how we can make more educated decisions when it comes to how, where, and why we spend our money. Bill O'Hearn, Chief of the Consumer Advocacy and Response Division at the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office, joins Nichole this week to offer some insight into your rights as a consumer, and how you can avoid scams. PLUS: Spring is on the way, and this spring will be special for Project Bread. The anti-hunger non-profit is hosting its "Walk For Hunger" back in-person for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic! Noa Rosen, Events Manager for Project Bread, has details on this year's event and how you can get involved.
This week's episode is the second in a two-part series on human trafficking, and this week, we are focusing on the impacts here in New England. Julie Dahlstrom, Director of the Immigrants' Rights and Human Trafficking program at the Boston University School of Law, talks with Nichole about what's being done, from Beacon Hill to local police departments, to stop this devastating criminal enterprise. PLUS: Transitioning from the battlefield to the home front can be difficult for veterans, many of whom find the support they were promised when they were discharged simply doesn't materialize. Bill Moore, the founder of "Project New Hope", returns to the show to talk about the resources they have for New England veterans, and their no-cost veterans' retreats to help service members heal.
++ CONTENT WARNING: human trafficking, sexual abuse, child abuse ++
Human trafficking affects millions of people not just around the world, but also right here in New England. So many cases go unreported each and every year, and it's incredibly easy for trafficking to take place right under our noses without most of us even realizing it. This week's episode is the first in a two part series on human trafficking. Victor Boutros, the CEO and co-founder of Human Trafficking Institute, talks with Nichole about the broader scale of the problem, and what HTI is doing to try and put a stop to it, one step at a time, in conjunction with law enforcement. PLUS: For more than 40 years, Food for Free has been working hard in the Boston area to help save perfectly edible food from ending up in the dumpster, and getting it into the hands of people who lack access to healthy meals. Ben Engle, the COO at Food for Free, explains their process and how you can help make it happen.
++ CONTENT WARNING: human trafficking, sexual abuse, child abuse ++
When he was young, Jesse Setaro of North End Fitness spent many years in the foster care system. With the help of a very special mentor, he was able to rise above poverty, homelessness, and instability to build a happy and successful life. Now, Jesse wants to give back to foster kids in Boston through "Project F", a special gym and mentoring program that would give orphans and foster children a safe place to thrive and grow. Jesse joins Nichole to talk about his plans for the gym and how you can help him get the doors open. PLUS: Several lawmakers on Beacon Hill have filed a bill that, if passed, would allow a process called "natural organic reduction" in Massachusetts, otherwise known as "human composting". Rep. Natalie Higgins (D-Leominster), a main sponsor of the bill, explains the process and why she feels it's important to make it available for Massachusetts residents.
Sitting on Route 2 or the Mass Pike in traffic is no one's idea of a good time. There's a new study underway to take a closer look at how Massachusetts could be connected by rail along the Northern Tier, between North Adams and Boston. State Senator Paul Mark joins Nichole to talk about why it's critical to beef up infrastructure in western Massachusetts, what constituents have to say about it, and what the rail system would have to offer those who want a different way to explore. PLUS: After two years of plunging virtually, it's time to get chilly in person to support Special Olympics NH! The Winni Dip and Polar Plunge are back in-person this year on the shores of Hampton Beach and Lake Winnipesaukee. Marc Ericson has all the details if you want to take part to help a great cause.
Each year, the "Winter Walk" brings members of the Boston community together to end the stigma surrounding homelessness, amplify the stories of the unhoused, and find solutions to work toward substantive change. Executive Director Ari Barbanell joins Nichole this week to talk about the event, their expansion to western Massachusetts, and how you can get involved. PLUS: Volunteering can be a bit daunting if you've never done it before. Sometimes, you don't even know where to begin! That's where Boston Cares comes in, with connections to hundreds of schools and non-profits that could use your help. Sara Hamilton, Executive Director, talks about the path to volunteering, and we'll also hear from Cecilia Falcao, a long-time volunteer, about her experience.
NEADS, based in Princeton, helps all kinds of good dogs live to their fullest potential by training them to be service and therapy dogs. Before they can go through that training, they need a solid upbringing. Heather Romanoff, the Manager of Raiser Operations at NEADS, talks with Nichole about their search for puppy raisers in Worcester County, and what volunteers can do to set these puppies up for success. PLUS: As we exit the height of the COVID pandemic, our region's kids need mentoring, guidance, and support, now more than ever. Mark O'Donnell, President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts, has details on the need for mentorship, and how you don't have to be perfect to boost a child who needs a friend. ALSO: Many people are choosing a different career path post-COVID, with the trades becoming more and more popular. Nancy Houle at Minuteman Technical Institute in Lexington has details on their upcoming workforce development courses, which many can attend for free thanks to some new state funding.
Happy New Year! As we kick off 2023, many of us are taking the first few weeks of the year to take a closer look at our personal finances. Ryan Davies, Chair of the Finance Department at Babson College, joins Nichole on this week's show to offer some insight and advice on budgeting, savings, and much more as we all try to navigate this volatile economy. PLUS: Making a New Year's resolution is one thing. Keeping it is another. Usually, the latter doesn't happen. Deborah Carr, Professor of Sociology at Boston University, explains why we tend to fall off the wagon when it comes to our resolutions, and shares some tips to help keep us on track.
It's a festive time over at the Stone Zoo in Stoneham, as the resident animals are surrounded by thousands of tiny, bright lights. "Zoo Lights" has been going on for years at the Zoo, and Zoo New England President John Linehan returns to the show to talk about how it all came together, how you can enjoy the gorgeous displays, and what's new at the zoo. PLUS: Now that winter's officially here, we're starting to see some quintissential New England snow and ice storms. The state of New Hampshire says they need more plow drivers to help keep the roads clear and safe. Richard Arcand from NHDOT joins Nichole to talk about their available opportunities. AND: Even though we're through the height of the pandemic, we're not out of the woods this holiday season when it comes to viruses. Between flu, RSV and COVID, a lot of people are sick right now! Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, the Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission, is back on the show with an update on how Boston is handling the situation, what the city's offering to help, and what health experts predict this holiday.
Beautiful handmade glass ornaments are glistening this Christmas over at the Sandwich Glass Museum! The "Glassblower's Christmas" event at the museum on Cape Cod is a fun way to learn all about the historic art of glassblowing while celebrating the season. Andrew Snell, Retail Manager at the Museum, talks with Nichole about this family-friendly Christmas experience. || This Christmas, you can step back in time by heading out to Central Massachusetts. "Christmas by Candlelight" is back at Old Sturbridge Village, and Communications Director Christine Freitas has all the details on what the beautifully decorated Village has to offer for those who come to celebrate (hint: there's cocoa!). || The holidays can be a very difficult time for people in recovery. Dr. Ximena Sanchez-Samper from Charles River Recovery in Weston shares advice and insight for those working hard to stay sober this season.
The Festival of Lights is coming up, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston will be filled with light, hope, cheer, and joy on Thursday, December 15th. That's because the Museum, in collaboration with the Jewish Arts Collaborative and Combined Jewish Philanthropies, is once again hosting their very special Hanukkah at the MFA event! Laura Mandel, the Executive Director of the Jewish Arts Collaborative, joins Nichole to share the details of the event, which is open to one and all. PLUS: Millions of diabetics are finding themselves in a no-win situation these days: pay for their insulin, or pay other critical bills, like heat or food. The skyrocketing cost of the critical diabetes drug is forcing many to cut back or go without completely, which can lead to dangerous consequences. Dr. Marie McDonnell, the Director of the Diabetes Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, breaks down what insulin is, why it's so imperative that diabetics have it, what's causing the price to rise so high, and what patients can do to get the medicine they need.
Beth Sobiloff and Marcia Rothwell are having the time of their lives exploring each and every city and town around the Commonwealth! The "Two Grannies on the Road" are changing the narrative about what it means to be a senior as they eat ice cream, learn Bay State history, and generally have a blast. Beth and Marcia talk about their adventures, what led them to start this adventure, and where they're off to next. There are all kinds of factors that go into how children effectively learn, but at MIT, researchers there have been looking beyond the standardized testing and other methods of survey we normally use to gauge children's struggles to read. Dr. John Gabrieli is a lead writer on a new study that just came out focusing on brain waves, and how there's a tangible, physical difference in brain patterns that directly correlates to socio-economic status. Dr. Gabrieli will have details on the research and what the results could mean for equity in education.
During the holidays, food banks and other services helping to fight food insecurity get huge boosts in donations. With more than 20% of Massachusetts residents struggling to put food on the table, the work continues year-round with Project Bread. Erin MacAleer, President of Project Bread, joins Nichole to talk about their work with municipalities, lawmakers, food banks and other non-profits to try and end hunger in the Bay State. Holidays can be really stressful for our furry friends! Dr. Kiko Bracker, Director of Emergency and Critical Care at MSPCA-Angell, shares tips on how you can keep your cat, dog, or other pet healthy, happy, and full of joy this winter. For decades, Teamsters Local 25 have been bringing Christmas cheer to children all around the Boston area. Joe Conti has been the smiling face leading the drive for years, and he has all the details on how you can help this Christmas.
Electric vehicles are becoming more commonplace and accessible. While that's good, there's another side to the story - do we have enough electricity to power them? And can our infrastructure handle the demand? Colette Lamontagne, Director of Energy Storage and Transportation Development at National Grid, joins Nichole to break down the data of a new study that takes a closer look at how Massachusetts will need to upgrade as we make our way into a more electrified world. For more than 40 years, the Genesis Foundation has helped to provide critical care to children with rare genetic diseases and their families. It was founded by a beloved member of the WBZ-AM family, the late Dr. Murray Feingold. Foundation President Matthew Hoffman talks with Nichole about a new gift to Mass General for Children to establish the Feingold Fund, which aims to help more children in need receive wrap-around care from diagnosis straight through adulthood.
Have you ever noticed squirrels gliding around your backyard? CJ Wong, a University of New Hampshire graduate student, is spearheading a citizen science effort to build nest boxes in hopes of learning more about these cute little creatures all over our region. CJ joins Nichole to talk about the project, why it's important, and how you can help. For more than 20 years, families on the South Shore have been turning to Friendship Home in Norwell for support, kindness, community and empathy. Friendship Home offers programs, job assistance, and advocacy for those with developmental disabilities and their families. Executive Director Andrea Pyke and Director of Development Heather Dwyer have details about the history of Friendship Home and their work in the community. Annaboto is a Boston-based startup that's making waves in the cannabis growth space, but founder Carl Palme doesn't want to stop there. He wants to use their technology to help in the fight against food insecurity! Carl explains his motivation, the technology, and the future of Annaboto on this week's episode.
In just a matter of weeks, the "Embrace" statue honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King will be unveiled on Boston Common. It was spearheaded by King Boston, a group working in connection with the Boston Foundation to promote racial and economic justice in the city. Recently, the group changed its name to Embrace Boston to better encompass their efforts. Gregory Ball, the Director of Digital Strategy and Production at Embrace Boston, joins Nichole for a discussion on the state of racial equity in the Hub. He also has an update on the memorial and details on a new cultural center that's in the works. Remember wandering your local mall back in the 80's and 90's, spending your weekends with friends eating fast food and shelling out your allowance? Malls aren't quite the same these days, but last month, a piece of retail history was opened at the Natick Mall that brought back a lot of fun memories and nostalgia. Charlene Leith and Joan Robblee, who both worked at the Mall back in the 90's, talk about their experiences back in the day and share the story of the time capsule being opened up!
It's almost opening night for Season 105 at the Melrose Symphony Orchestra, the oldest continuously performing volunteer orchestra in the entire country! Conductor Yoichi Udagawa returns to the show to talk about their show on November 5th, which celebrates Black composers. Pine Street Inn is well known around the Boston area for the work they do to help those who are unhoused or otherwise in need of assistance to turn their lives around. One of the programs they offer is called iCater, which teaches people critical skills in the kitchen and hospitality to help them find work. Tai Irwin, Job Placement Specialist at Pine Street, joins Renee Jones, who's working through the program, to talk about the experience and the benefits of that knowledge. The Boston Foundation is out with a new study on housing vacancy in Greater Boston, and the "Report Card" finds what many Bostonians already are well aware of - housing is slim, and what is available is very expensive. Luc Schuster, Executive Director of Boston Indicators, talks with Nichole about the findings, the impact on equity for low income families and families of color, and what can be done to turn this trend around.
Fall's a busy time over at the North Shore Music Theater, with the new production of "Kinky Boots" about to get underway! Owner Bill Hanney talks with Nichole about the preps for the limited run of the classic show, this year's run of "A Christmas Carol", and how the theater's fighting back against ticket scalpers. We also get a sneak peek at the theater's 2023 lineup! Millions of children around the Commonwealth don't have access to basic hygiene products, like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant. Being without these items can lead them to struggle with confidence and affect their health. Kerry Carter, CEO of Hope and Comfort in Needham, talks about their efforts to get these essential items out to children through youth groups, schools, and other venues. She also explains how inflation is affecting both supply and demand for these items, and how you can help them get these items to children who need them.
We've got another New England winter on the way, and the bitter cold we have around here can cause our heating systems to fail at the most inopportune moments. The city of Boston has a program to make sure seniors living in the Hub are able to either get their system tuned up before the chill hits, or get it replaced completely, oftentimes without cost. Richard O'Brien from the Boston Home Center joins Nichole with the details. Starting next month, Massachusetts residents won't be able to throw away mattresses and other big textiles in the trash. John Fischer, Branch Chief for Commercial Waste Reduction and Waste Planning at the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, explains the new rule and the reasoning behind it. Throughout October, residents of Boston will join City Councilors, alternative transportation advocates, and other groups on hikes through the city's 25-mile-long "Walking City Trail". Max Hunter, a volunteer with Mothers Out Front Boston, talks about their group's efforts, and why they're teaming up to help people discover Boston's hidden green spaces.
With the height of the pandemic behind us, how many people in Massachusetts are still choosing to stick to their home office as opposed to battling the usual commute? David Turcotte, an economics professor at UMass Lowell, joins Nichole to talk about the trends we are seeing when it comes to remote working, how working from home is changing neighborhoods, and what it means for local businesses that may still be struggling to recover. Food is a great way to connect with friends and family, but it's also a really good way to open up conversations about complicated subjects, like mental health. Dayna Altman, the founder of Bake It Till You Make It, talks with Nichole about her new traveling exhibit, "Watch Me Rise", and how she helps people utilize tasty baked goods to create a vulnerable, open space for these critical talks.
Have you noticed local businesses are starting to roll out the holiday shopping deals, even though we just got through Back to School? Jon Hurst, President of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, joins Nichole on the show to talk about why that's happening. Jon also has an update on how businesses are faring through high inflation and threats of an upcoming recession. September is National Recovery Month, and The Phoenix has open doors for anyone who wants to take that first step to getting sober. The nationwide group has a big presence here in the Northeast, and Regional Director Sydney Durand has details on the "active community" they have to offer for anyone who wants it.
It's been a busy summer for Special Olympics New Hampshire as they work to help kids and adults with intellectual disabilities enjoy the wide world of sports. Mark Ericson, the Senior Manager of Communications for SONH, joins Nichole to talk about their upcoming events, their "Pick Your Prize" raffle that's underway, and the return of a very special (and chilly) fundraiser! Imagine if you could go to sleep in Boston and wake up in Montréal. That could be a possibility if the Fondation Trains du Nuit - or the Night Trains Foundation - is able to make its idea of an overnight train between the two cities a reality. Francois Rebello, a businessman and former politician from Quebec, explains the vision for the train, which would also make stops in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
Suffolk Construction in Boston is teaming up with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts to help inspire young girls to enter STEM fields, especially construction! Libby Murphy, Project Executive at Suffolk, talks with Nichole about the special camp they held recently, and their plans to help young women embrace science, technology, engineering, and math careers. Scott Snider, the CEO of Proven Behavior Solutions on the South Shore, joins the show to talk about new, innovative ways to help improve the lives of those on the autism spectrum. Scott also discusses technologies that are helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independent lives.
It's Labor Day Weekend, the unofficial end of summer... so that means it's time to start thinking about getting outside and taking in all fall has to offer! Marc Hurwitz of Boston's Hidden Restaurants and Boston Restaurant Talk returns to the program. He and Nichole talk about special places to hike and explore all over the region, along with places you can get a tasty meal before or after your adventure.
Police dogs, and their handlers, often find themselves in unpredictable, and even dangerous, situations. They don't always have the gear they need to keep themselves safe, but Massachusetts Vest-a-Dog has been working for decades to change that. President David Shilale joins Nichole to talk about their efforts to outfit every K-9 officer in Massachusetts with safety vests tailored specifically to their needs. For centuries, Swansea residents have patronized and loved the J.G. Luther Store on Old Warren Road. Time takes its toll on buildings like this, but the Swansea Historical Society has been able to keep up - until COVID hit. Now, they're scrambling to try and fix massive structural and pest problems in hopes of saving this beloved historical landmark. Cheryl Bogle from the Swansea Historical Society has details on what happened, and how you can help them get the store back to good.
The MBTA's Orange Line officially closed Friday night for a month of critical repairs. The leadup to the closure was swift and full of confusion, and commuters are preparing for what's expected to be a horrific month of travel. WBZ NewsRadio reporter Karyn Regal, who has been watching the situation as it develops, joins Nichole to talk about how things got to this point and what's expected to come out of the unprecedented closure. Almost half of Massachusetts is currently in what's considered an "extreme drought". Rain has been hard to come by this year across the entire state, with rivers and ponds drying up and lawns turning brown and crunchy. Vandana Rao, the Director of Water Policy for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, explains what's happening with our weather patterns and has an update on how well the Commonwealth's water supply is holding up amid the dry conditions.
Earlier this week, the CDC revised guidelines on how to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic - in some cases, completely removing or revising them. It's almost time for school to get started in New England's largest city, and Nichole talks with Boston's Public Health Commissioner, Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, about what they expect from the virus in the autumn months. Climate change and other environmental problems are causing many to re-think their habits when it comes to waste and consumption. Good eco-friendly habits aren't easy to develop, though, especially when it feels like you're the only one taking part. Frank Lowenstein, Senior Director of Climate Culture Boston, talks with Nichole about their mission to help people work together to develop those habits, and why Boston is the perfect city for them to get out their message.
Members of white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups are becoming more aggressive with their public presence here in our part of the country. The Nationalist Social Club, or NSC-131, is just one of those groups based right here in New England. Nichole talks with Robert Trestan, New England Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League, about who these people are, what drives them to join such groups, and what can be done, if anything, to stop it. With pediatric mental health at the forefront, many adults are trying to find ways to help kids connect with their emotions. Medical professionals at two Boston-area hospitals have teamed up with video game designers and players to create "Mightier", a video game that's focused on creating opportunities to teach emotional regulation through play. Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Jason Kahn and Lead Clinical Strategist Emily Stone join Nichole to discuss the research that went into the game and the methods it uses to help kids visualize their feelings in real time.
For decades, A Place to Turn in Natick has provided families in need in Boston's Metrowest with a respectful, stigma-free place to obtain food, toiletries, and other critical items to get by. With inflation soaring and the economy struggling, now, the food pantry is finding itself with empty shelves for the first time in a long time. Joanne Barry, Executive Director of A Place to Turn, joins Nichole to talk about their mission and how you can help them get through a summer that's been tough for so many. Landowners in Central and Western Massachusetts, along with parts of New York and Vermont, have a very special capability to help fight climate change. The "Family Forest Carbon Program", a joint venture from the Nature Conservancy and American Forest Foundation, offers family landowners annual payments to help put climate-friendly forest management practices in place on their land to promote carbon sequestration. Richard Campbell, the National Director for Landowner Management for the Program, explains the process of carbon sequestration, talks about the benefit of carbon credits, and has information for family landowners who might want to get involved.
We're making our way toward the peak of hurricane season here in New England, and even though we may not have seen any tropical weather quite yet, it's never too early to get ready for anything that might come our way. Chris Besse, Public Information Officer at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, has all the info you need to know about the best items for an emergency pack and creating a plan to keep your family safe. Years after her father died, Jamie Blanco was handed a pile of papers. It was her late father's manuscript, detailing his journey battling one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. He had been given just weeks to live, but he was able to survive more than a decade. Jamie, a former member of the WBZ NewsRadio team, talks about completing her father's manuscript by adding her own research, and tells the story of a man who stopped at nothing to gain more time.
For more than a decade, Tim O'Connell pursued his mission of creating a special place where families fighting childhood cancer could relax and enjoy life, even for a short time. Tommy's Place in Falmouth has become that place, with everything children could want for a fun-filled week away from home. Some kids call it better than Disney! Now, Tim wants to help more families by opening another home in Centerville. Tim chats with Nichole about his journey to open Tommy's Place, the plans for the Centerville home, and how you can help. After decades in the industry, radio executive Buzz Knight is taking the leap into the podcast world, telling stories of people all over the country while burning calories. Buzz joins Nichole with details about his new podcast, "Takin' A Walk" (find it on the iHeartRadio app), and advice for those who want to enter the digital media space.
From prisons to homeless shelters, dozens of Boston-area amateur musicians are spreading joy through song to those struggling to get by, or searching for a second chance. Tim McHale, co-founder of "Music With Heart", joins Nichole on the show this week to talk about the group's three-decade history performing in and around the Hub, and how you can take part. For more than 50 years, John Drew has been a driving force behind ABCD - Action for Boston Community Development. Having been there since the early days, John, who now serves as President and CEO, has helped provide critical resources to hundreds of thousands of low-income families throughout the years. Now, John has decided it's time to step away. On this episode, he shares his half-century-long journey with Nichole, and his thoughts on the future.
Stacey Borden, founder of New Beginnings Re-Entry Services, joins Nichole for this week's show to talk about her work with women who are leaving incarceration. New Beginnings offers trauma-based physical and mental health treatment, housing, educational opportunities, job placement, addiction treatment, and much more to try and make sure women caught up in the system don't go back. Stacey also has a candid conversation with Nichole about her history in the prison system, and the effects of incarceration on women, especially Black women. ++ CONTENT WARNING: addiction, domestic violence, drug and alcohol use, discussion of suicide and murder ++
When you hear the phrase "Mutt Society", you might think it's all about pups, but in this case, it's a group of friends who love bikes - and getting bikes into the hands of those who need them. Trent Sanders and Andrew Wallace from the Mutt Society join Nichole to talk about their philanthropic work not just here in New England, but around the world. They also have details on their upcoming bike giveaway for kids in Lynn. On the South Coast, a group of seniors over at Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School recently took their talents out of this world! The students, guided by their teacher, created an interactive space exhibit for the Children's Museum of Greater Fall River, which was recently unveiled for kids all over the region to enjoy. Nichole chats with people who contributed to the project all along the way: Katelyn Mushipi, the Executive Director of the Children's Museum; Jo-Anne Sbrega, former Executive Director of the Museum; Carl Sawejko, President of Sawejko Enterprises; Paul Beaudoin, Electronics Instructor at Diman, and Diman Principal Andrew Rebello.
Children and teens, now more than ever, are reaching out to get help with their mental health struggles - depression, anxiety, and body image problems, among many others. Nichole talks with Dr. Fatima Watt, Director of Behavioral Health Services at Franciscan Children's, about what teens need from adults in their lives as they try to navigate a mental health crisis. They also talk about the effects of social media on Generation Z, and why younger people are more open about their mental health struggles. Buy Black NB, which connects residents to Black-owned businesses, is staying busy this summer! Founder Justina Perry returns to the show to talk about their upcoming Juneteenth event in New Bedford. She also has an update on the state of small business ownership on the South Coast, and how business owners are recovering after the height of COVID-19.
The “Massachusetts Beagle Freedom Bill”, if passed, would require researchers who use animals for testing to offer them up for adoption when their tenure is done, instead of sending them directly to be euthanized. Cara Zipoli, Susan Howe of the Aisling Center, and Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), come together on the show to talk with Nichole about their efforts to get this legislation passed. Cara and Susan also explain why beagles are used for testing, why research animals make great pets, and the regulations surrounding animal testing. May is American Stroke Month. Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States, and it’s one of the top health conditions that can lead to death. Dr. Hugo Javier Aparicio, assistant professor of neurology at Boston University School of Medicine, joins Nichole to explain the risk factors, talk about what triggers a stroke, and ways you can spot the warning signs.
Don't be surprised if, later this month, you see people dressed to the nines riding around Greater Boston on some high-end motorcycles. It's all part of the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a special event that takes place around the globe each year to help raise awareness, and funds, to benefit the Movember Foundation. Sean Carberry, Managing Editor at National Defense Magazine, joins Nichole to talk about his connection with Movember and the Ride, the importance of talking about men's health, and how you can take part in this year's event. Parents around the country are struggling to find baby formula to feed their children. Lynn Przystac, a neonatal dietitian at Women and Infants Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island, has important information for parents on what to do, and what to avoid doing, if they can't find their preferred formula on store shelves.
++ TW: addiction, drug dependency, substance abuse ++ As Massachusetts continues to struggle with the opioid crisis, and more people turn to substances to try and get them through the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, there is a group that’s focused on being their voice: Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery. For more than 30 years, MOAR has worked to educate the public and bring awareness to addiction, the driving factors, and the paths to recovery. Executive Director Maryanne Frangules joins Nichole to talk about their efforts to connect those in the throes of addiction with recovery coaches and resources to help them transition into long-term recovery. Maryanne also talks about MOAR’s policy efforts on Beacon Hill, the power of fighting back against stigma, and why it’s critical we keep talking about addiction. Spring is here, and that means it's bunny season! Rabbits are on the mind of the UNH Co-Operative Extension, and they’ve launched a new “NH Rabbit Reports” website so you can help them try to track down an endangered species in the Granite State. Haley Andreozzi, the Wildlife Outreach Program Manager at the Extension, has details on why the New England cottontail is so important, and how you can keep them in the loop when you spot a bunny hopping down the trail.
Massachusetts families are dealing with record levels of food insecurity, and record levels of inflation are only making the situation worse. One in ten people here in Massachusetts aren’t getting enough healthy food – and when it comes to children, that number is even higher. The Greater Boston Food Bank has teamed up with Boston Medical Center on a new effort to raise money to put more meals on the table around the Commonwealth, and you can help with your car! Justin Williams, VP and Chief Development Officer at Boston Medical Center, and David Giagrando, Senior Director of Development at Greater Boston Food Bank, join Nichole to talk about their new “Stop Hunger” license plate, and explain how you can be one of the first to get one. For more than 50 years, Pine Street Inn in Boston has been helping to provide housing and critical services for unhoused people in the Hub. A major focus in recent years has been providing permanent supportive housing in the Boston area and support staff for those in need. Executive Director Lyndia Downie talks with Nichole about their latest efforts to do so in a market where housing costs are skyrocketing. She also has details on the non-profit’s upcoming “Home Remedy” fundraiser.
Millions of Ukrainian refugees have fled the war in their country by making their way over the border into Poland. Two men with Massachusetts ties are in Poland this week, doing what they can to make life a little easier for those who may have lost everything to war. Lars Whelan talks with Nichole about his efforts to assist families who make their way to Warsaw Central Railway Station, and how his little pup, Juno, is bringing smiles to kids' faces. Julio Salado, a fitness trainer from Malden, is embarking on a weeklong volunteer trip with World Central Kitchen to Przemysl, Poland, to help feed refugees. He spoke with WBZ's Laurie Kirby about his plans, and their conversation is on this week's show. There's a Milton-based non-profit that has been working for 20 years to help better the quality of life for Haitians. Jocelyn Bresnahan, CEO of Saint Rock Haiti Foundation, has details on their work to provide quality medical care in Haiti and their upcoming "Building Hope Together" gala.
For decades, Necco was the pride of New England candy-making. The iconic company, based in Revere, has been closed for a few years now, but there are still plenty of stories to be told. Darlene Lacey, an author and “candy historian” from Los Angeles, California, has been exploring the extensive history of the candy – and the people – behind the New England Confectionary Company. She’s releasing a new book about it, “Necco: An Epic Candy Tale”, and she joins Nichole to talk about her research. The weather’s getting warmer, and the sun’s going down later, which means it’s time for us to spend more time outside. That also means it’s time for mosquitoes to start showing up – along with the West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis! Dr. Catherine Brown, State Epidemiologist at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, has all you need to know about the viruses, what the state is doing to try and protect the public, and how you can protect yourself from those pesky mosquitoes.
It's the fight that’s made headlines for weeks now in the Boston area. How much are restaurant owners in the North End willing to shell out for tables outside their restaurant? Boston Mayor Michelle Wu recently unveiled new fees specifically for restaurants in their neighborhood – nowhere else – citing resident complaints of trash, rodents and noise. Marc Hurwitz, author of “Boston Restaurant Talk” and “Boston’s Hidden Restaurants” returns to the show to break down the arguments on both sides with Nichole. He also offers some insights about the state of the restaurant industry, the continual rise of breweries and distilleries, and his recent favorite restaurant picks.
Harvey Ball’s iconic “smiley face” adorns posters, stickers, masks, you name it – all over the world. Created by a Worcester artist, the smiley face is now synonymous with Worcester – even serving as the mascot of the Worcester Red Sox! The Worcester Historical Museum has also paid tribute to Ball by dubbing their major annual fundraiser the “Harvey Ball”, which is taking place this year at Polar Park. Co-chairs Ursula Arello and Karon Shea join Nichole to share details of the event, this year’s honoree, and how it benefits the museum. Two local sisters, Felicia Walker and Deb Britt, teamed up with their family to showcase their extensive collection of Black dolls in Mansfield, opening the National Black Doll Museum of History and Culture. Felicia and Deb have been using their collection as a teaching tool, providing historical context and inspiration for Black children all over the region. COVID-19 forced them to close their brick and mortar location, but now they’re looking to make a comeback. Felicia talks with Nichole about their journey to this moment and their plans for a brand new space in Attleboro.
Many Americans have been using the past couple of years to forge a new career path, and that’s certainly the case for Patrick and Beth Downing of Franklin. They come from a family of pharmacists, and they were working in the industry themselves. Now, they’re all-in with their new venture: GlenPharmer Distillery, where they embrace science as they come up with creative spirits. The couple talk with Nichole about their journey to becoming distillery owners, and what visitors can expect when they stop by the historic building in Franklin. On March 31, Boston’s COVID-19 eviction moratorium will officially be lifted. It’s been in place since last August to try and stop the spread of COVID, as officials worried evictions would contribute to the spread. Katie Forde with the Boston Office of Housing Stability explains to Nichole why the city is making this move, resources available to help renters in trouble, and programs that can help landlords get back on their feet, too.
We're seeing record-high gas prices at the pump each and every day. You're shelling out way more for groceries and household items. What is going on? It's not just one factor driving all this, and UMass Assistant Professor of Analytics and Operations Management Dr. Belleh Fontem joins Nichole to break it all down. Dr. Fontem also has tips on how you can save some cash during this time, and thoughts on how this current financial crisis is contributing to climate change. Eric Butler, the mastermind behind the new pilot "Broadway in Worcester", talks with Nichole about his history in the arts and his efforts to bring Broadway talent up from the Big Apple to perform in Central Massachusetts. He also has details about the first performance as part of the program: five-time Tony winner Laura Benanti.
As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, there are worries about potential cyberattacks here in the United States as part of the fallout. Stephanie Helm, the Director of the Mass Cyber Center, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about how plausible a Russian-backed cyberattack on the US could be as part of this conflict. She also reviews tips to help you make sure your digital presence is secure from any cyber criminal. Dozens of students in Brockton are getting a very special "Night at the Symphony" this weekend courtesy of the Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, sponsored by South Shore Bank. CEO Karen Thompson and Michael A. Smith, Director of Music at Brockton Public Schools, talk with Nichole about the program and what the kids can expect. They also chat about the impact of music education for kids of all ages, and how important representation and access is for kids in underserved communities.
Yoichi Udagawa, Conductor of the Melrose Symphony Orchestra, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about their "March Masterworks" concert. The two also discuss life in the arts after the peak of COVID, and how classical music can be fun for everyone. Bennett Weiner, Executive Vice President and COO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, joins Nichole to share important tips on how you can keep yourself safe if you choose to donate to charities to help Ukrainians during the Russian invasion. Sara Suzuki and Virginia Cuello of Cambridge are on the show to discuss their "Cambridge HEART" program. HEART stands for Holistic Emergency Alternative Response Team, and they hope to provide another resource for marginalized groups in Cambridge to call in case of an emergency.
This episode is Part 2 of a two-part deep dive into recycling, sustainability, and integrating zero-waste policies into our everyday lives. Brian Coughlin, Superintendent of Waste Reduction at Boston Public Works, chats with Nichole about the City of Boston’s recycling process, and how residents can make it a more successful venture. Brian also has details about the city’s efforts to move toward a zero-waste society, and the Hub’s new Curbside Textile Collection program, which allows residents to send their unwanted clothes, bedding, curtains, and other textiles to be upcycled and resold without having to head to a dropoff point. Aubrey Conquergood, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons, and Erin Rafferty, CEO of Wonderfund, join Nichole to talk about this year’s Bruins PJ drive. They’re working together with the Boston bruins and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to gather new pajamas for kids living in foster care, low-income, and homeless situations.
This episode is Part 1 of a two-part deep dive into recycling, sustainability, and integrating zero-waste policies into our everyday lives. Jeremy Gregory, the Executive Director of the MIT Climate and Sustainability Consortium, joins Nichole to explain the history and details of the recycling systems we rely on. The two also break down teachings many of us learned as kids about recycling, and how it actually applies now in the 21st century. They also discuss best practices for individuals and companies to ensure recyclable material finds a second life. Officer Nancy Bersani of Milton Animal Control explains the troubles they're dealing with as they try to get a new animal shelter built. Supply chain problems, high costs of lumber, and other factors mean the project's had to be delayed, but a new building is sorely needed to keep the animals safe and enriched during their stay.
Dr. Tamar Barlam, Chief of the Section of Infectious Diseases at Boston Medical Center, joins Nichole to talk about the effects of the coronavirus, specifically the omicron variant, on the Massachusetts health care system. She also answers questions about when you should test for the virus, the best type of mask you can wear, and when we might be starting to see the decline of the omicron variant in Massachusetts. Tanisha Sullivan, President of the Boston NAACP, recently launched her candidacy for Secretary of the Commonwealth. She's up against Secretary Bill Galvin, who also announced he's running for a record eighth term. Tanisha talks about her background and her priorities for the role if she wins election.
Shon Rainford, Director of the Worcester Regional Food Hub, joins Nichole on the show to talk about the Hub's new headquarters that's being built out in Union Station. The Hub works with 1500+ local farmers and producers in Central Massachusetts to connect residents and restaurants with healthy, fresh local food. They also offer kitchen space to those who want to start their own career in the restaurant industry. Janet Seckel-Cerrotti, Executive Director of FriendshipWorks in Boston, talks with Nichole about their efforts to connect volunteers of all ages with seniors in Greater Boston in hopes of reducing social isolation. FriendshipWorks offers all kinds of programs for seniors, including pet and music therapy, all for free!
Former Boston radio personality Danielle Murr joins Nichole to talk about two non-profits she's working with, now that she's left the mic full-time: Behind You Inc., which provides support for food service workers struggling with financial instability, and Blue's Bridge, Danielle's foundation that is dedicated to rescuing animals, healing them, and finding them forever homes. Ronald Braunstein and Caroline Whiddon of the Me2/ Orchestra join the show to talk about their efforts to provide a safe, stigma-free place for musicians to practice and perform their art. They also have details about their upcoming stigma-free show at Boston's Symphony Hall, where everyone is invited to take in the music as they are.
Dr. Eric Dickson, President and CEO of UMass Memorial Medical Center, talks with Nichole about all things COVID as we enter the new year. Dr. Dickson answers questions about the Omicron variant and everything that comes along with it: testing, vaccine mandates, the impact of the virus on people who are disabled and immunocompromised, how health care workers are dealing with the strain on hospitals, and much more.
Sometimes the best gift for the holidays is the one that was made by someone who lives just down the road. The Society for Arts and Crafts in Boston is holding its annual "CraftBoston Holiday" juried craft show, but this year, it's all virtual! Brigitte Martin, Executive Director of the Society, chats with Nichole about the artists they work with, the stories that art can tell, and how you can find the perfect gift (either for yourself, or someone else). The holidays aren't full of cheer for everyone, especially now that we're dealing with another surge of COVID-19. Dr. David Brendel, a psychiatrist from Belmont, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about factors that make the holidays a difficult time for people, including family troubles, toxic relationships, and COVID concerns.
Energy prices are on the rise, and the worst of winter hasn't even hit yet. Reverend Mariama White-Hammond, the Chief of Environment, Energy and Open Space for the City of Boston, joins Nichole to talk about the Hub's "Community Choice" electricity program. The City works with outside vendors to connect Boston residents with affordable electricity, which, depending on the program chosen, can consist of 100% renewable energy. Aubrey Conquergood, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons Boston, returns to the show for an update on the non-profit's efforts to provide families in need with seasonally-appropriate clothing for children. Aubrey also has details on Cradles' new "Resilience Fund" to help families especially hard-hit by COVID-19.
Billions of dollars could be on the way in infrastructure funding for Massachusetts, and New England as a whole. Dan McNichol and Bill Goodrich have spent decades advocating for, and directly working to build, better infrastructure around the country. They talk with Nichole about what exactly constitutes infrastructure, what this money could mean for projects in our area, and some of the potential roadblocks to getting these upgrades done. Bill Hanney, the owner of the North Shore Music Theater, joins Nichole to talk about a big anniversary for their annual production of "A Christmas Carol". Bill explains how the intricate production comes together, and how the theater is working to protect the actors, and the audience, from a resurgence of COVID-19.
Ruthzee Louijeune of Boston's Mattapan neighborhood was recently elected to one of the city's four City Councilor-At-Large seats. She's the first Haitian-American to serve in the role. Ruthzee joins Nichole to share the story of her life growing up in the Hub and lay out her priorities for her time on the Council. Jeremy Burton, the Executive Director of the Boston Jewish Community Relations Council, talks with Nichole about the history of Hanukkah, which is underway this week. He also discusses what it's like trying to celebrate during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how Jewish groups are using this year's holiday to shine a light on recent anti-Semitic events around the world.
The holidays are a time when many of us want to contribute to help those in need. The Greater Boston Food Bank is working hard to do that all year long, especially as the region struggles with inflation and COVID-19. Catherine Drennan Lynn, the Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the Food Bank, talks with Nichole about their efforts to make sure everyone who needs a meal can get one, and how you can help keep Massachusetts residents fed. Thanksgiving is a big time of year for those living in Plymouth! Lea Filson, the President and CEO of See Plymouth, joins Nichole to talk about new research that's being done to learn more about the story of the Pilgrims' landing in 1620, and the celebrations that are planned to mark the holiday in "America's Hometown".
Winter's coming! Is your vehicle ready? Mary Maguire of AAA Northeast has all the info you need to make sure you are ready for whatever weather Mother Nature throws at us this season. She also talks with Nichole about the threat of drowsy driving after the time change, and what AAA's expecting for the Thanksgiving travel forecast. David Waters, CEO of Community Servings, joins the show to talk about their "Pie in the Sky" fundraiser. The organization works with volunteers to get healthy, home-cooked meals out to chronically and critically ill people all over Massachusetts. David has details on the organization's history, and how you can help them with their mission.
Local history author Renee Mallett joins Nichole to talk about her new book, "Lost Towns of New England". Did you know New England has several towns that were either destroyed or completely abandoned? Renee talks with Nichole about her research, what the process was like to write her book, and a couple of the towns she features in her work. Joyce Linehan's mother, Yvonne, founded the Interim House in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood nearly 50 years ago. It's been a safe haven for men trying to break free of addiction. Now, the beautiful Victorian needs a boost. Joyce explains the fundraiser they're running, and tells Nichole a bit about the history of the home and her family's mission.
It's time to hit the parquet for a great cause! ABCD - Action Boston Community Development - is holding another round of its "Hoop Dreams" fundraiser on November 2 at TD Garden in Boston. John Drew, the President and CEO of ABCD, joins Nichole to talk about the event and the many other ways they help those in need around Greater Boston, especially with heating assistance leading up to a winter that's expected to be especially chilly. Eddie Walker, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts' Vice President of Medicare product, talks with Nichole about the process to enroll for Medicare. We're in the enrollment period right now, and Eddie has some tips and tricks to make sure your enrollment goes as smoothly as possible.
A lot's been said about the MBTA, but have you heard it in song? Melissa Carubia and Mike Manship, two of the creative minds behind "T: An MBTA Musical", join Nichole to talk about how they put together the witty show about three 20-somethings trying to navigate woes on the public transit system. They'll also talk about what it's been like to bring the musical back during the age of COVID-19. Robin Schell, senior counsel at Jackson, Jackson, and Wagner in Rye, NH, has details on the latest resources released by the New Hampshire Coalition for Suicide Prevention. They've unveiled a new website - ZeroSuicidesNH.org - for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts, or those who know someone who needs help. ++ CW: suicide ++
Are you struggling to find your favorite foods, appliances, furniture, or anything else you need at the store? There's one major factor driving all these shortages - problems in the global supply chain. Professor Michael Goodman teaches Public Policy at UMass Dartmouth, and he joins Nichole to break down these troubles in the chain. He also has some insight on how this might be playing out in your day-to-day life in the coming weeks and months. Michael Cloherty talks with Nichole about his new book, "Abel Bodied". It focuses on a piece of American history that unfolded in Malden - the first murder during a bank robbery! Michael has details on how he came up with the idea, and teaches us a bit about the story behind the book.
Project Bread's Erin McAleer returns to the show to talk with Nichole about what schools are doing to get around supply chain problems to ensure their students are fed. Erin also explains their efforts to pass a bill on Beacon Hill which would provide school meals for every student in Massachusetts. Mahtowin Munro, the co-leader of United American Indians of New England, shares the Indigenous perspective when it comes to Columbus Day. Mahtowin also has details on legislation Indigenous groups are working on to promote equity for Native Americans in Massachusetts.
Reverend Willie Bodrick II recently was installed as the new senior pastor at the historic Twelfth Baptist Church in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood. Nichole spoke with the Reverend about his vision for the future of the church, and the work the church is doing to help the community navigate through the coronavirus pandemic. Mike Keiley, Adoption Director at the MSPCA, offers up some tips for those who might be looking to adopt a shelter dog - how much time you should allow the pup to get acquainted, the process of making the right match, and what you should be looking for in your future furry family member.
Who doesn't love a donut? Pastry chef Dee Steffen Chinn of Big Heart Hospitality has all the details on this year's "Rise and Rumble" contest, which pits top pastry chefs against each other to create an intricate, tasty masterpiece. She also talks with Nichole about her creative, but busy, job coming up with fascinating desserts for one of Boston's hottest restaurant groups. Sam Potrykus and Jay Hunt from the Dorchester Art Project chat with Nichole about their "Tiny DAP Concerts", which focus on intimate performances with Black and brown artists from around the city of Boston. Sam also talks about the other amenities DAP has for artists of all kinds.
Julie LaFontaine, Executive Director at The Open Door food pantry in Gloucester, talks with Nichole about their recent decision to offer online ordering for their patrons. Julie also explains how the pandemic affected Cape Ann families when it comes to food insecurity, and how people can help them keep supplies going to people who need them. Dr. Bonnie Bertolaet, the Executive Director of the Science Club for Girls in Cambridge, shares what Season 3 of their "SCFG Live" show has in store. She also talks about the Club's mission to connect girls in under-represented communities with mentors in STEM fields.
Marc Hurwitz returns to the show to chat with Nichole about the latest in the Massachusetts restaurant industry. Which restaurants are closing their doors? How do restaurant owners plan on handling colder weather with the Delta, Lambda and Mu variants of COVID-19 still prevalent? Marc also offers his recommendations for the best spots in northern New England to leaf peep, quality spots to grab a cider donut, and all you need to know to start hiking with the local Appalachian Mountain Club.
Massachusetts, to some, is becoming "Hollywood East"! You may have noticed there are more film and TV crews around these days. Jamie Blanco and James Rojas from the Hub on Hollywood podcast join Nichole to talk about the latest with the state's film tax credit, what it's like to do background work on these projects, and what the state of the movie industry is looking like right now as we deal with the delta variant. Mike Thomas, the president of the Boston English High Alumni Association, talks with Nichole about their efforts to find thousands of alumni, hoping to connect so they can take part in the school's upcoming 200th anniversary celebration.
Cherylann Gengel, the co-founder of "Be Like Brit" in Worcester, updates Nichole about the devastation in Haiti in the wake of this month's 7.2 magnitude earthquake. She also talks about how the kids at the orphanage in Grand Goâve are adjusting to life during the pandemic, how they're preparing to send some of those kids to college, and what it's like trying to get humanitarian aid down to the country as it struggles with political unrest and severe weather. Connect with Be Like Brit at belikebrit.org. They are also on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
White shark season is here! They're back off the New England coast, and the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is out there tracking sharks as they feed and navigate through our waters. Marianne Walsh, the Education Director of the Conservancy, joins Nichole to talk about their Shark Smart Beach Program, the latest tech to research sharks with, and what you should know when you head to the beach. Lawrence Mayor Kendrys Vasquez talks with Nichole about the city's new plan to bring the vaccine directly to young people - by setting up outside local nightclubs on weekends through the rest of the summer. He also updates us on the state of COVID in Lawrence, and has advice for parents and others as we navigate the rise of the Delta variant.
He's been sitting there for decades, watching over Providence. Nibbles Woodaway, a.k.a. the "Big Blue Bug", is a giant termite on top of his company's building, and he never fails to make a statement. Brian Goldman, the CEO of Big Blue Bug Solutions, joins Nichole to talk about Nibbles' history and the repairs that need to be done to keep him standing for years to come. Reverend Laura Everett is the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Council of Churches, and she's starting a new art project using old, trashed, and worn-out masks. Nichole talks with Rev. Everett about the motivation behind the project, her "Mending Church", and the intricacies of using textile arts to meditate and process the trauma of the pandemic.
It's summertime on the New Hampshire seacoast, and the Seacoast Science Center has a lot to offer those who make the trek to the water's edge. Karen Provazza, the Director of Marketing for the Center, joins Nichole to talk about their offerings: pub trivia, tide pool tours, kayaking, and so much more! Justina Perry is a New Bedford resident who launched a platform during the height of the pandemic to highlight BIPOC-owned businesses on the South Coast. She tells the story of how it all came together and how she's connecting residents to a diverse array of services.
Jennifer Curtis, the Executive Director of South Shore Stars, talks with Nichole about the work the organization has done for decades to provide children with educational and youth development opportunities. They support kids of all ages around the South Shore, from birth through high school! Deborah Re, the CEO/President of Big Sister of Greater Boston, joins the show with Melissa Steffy and Seeraj Fayez of Herb Chambers BMW and Mini of Boston to talk about their 33rd Annual Car Raffle. This is one of the biggest fundraising events of the year for Big Sister, and Deb has details on how big of an impact it makes in their efforts to help connect girls with mentors and develop life-long relationships. WBZ's Drew Moholland speaks with Professor Juliet Schor at Boston College about the idea of a four-day work week taking root here in the United States.
Bob Cox, the founder and executive director of the Bridge Club of Greater Lowell, joins Nichole to talk about the Club's mission - providing safety, solidarity, and support to those struggling with addiction around the Merrimack Valley and beyond. Bob details his own journey with substance abuse, and how a round of treatment in Florida sparked the Club's creation. He also talks about the services they offer, such as recovery coaching and connections to detox. ++ CW: addiction, drug/alcohol use, suicide attempt ++
A non-profit on the North Shore, Build Health International, has been working for years to get critical health infrastructure and supplies out to developing countries. Now, they're breathing new life into medical supplies used at the "Boston Hope" COVID-19 field hospital. Sarah Sceery and Zac Chase of BHI join Nichole on the show to talk about the process and where the supplies are going. COVID-19 affected each of our lives in different ways, but for many of us, it took a toll on our physical, mental, and emotional health. Now that we're getting back into the "new normal", how are we supposed to work through all this? Dr. David Brendel, a psychiatrist in Belmont, returns to the show to talk about what he's seeing in his practice and offer advice for those who may be struggling with re-entry into a re-opened world.
Ransomware attacks have been in the news lately, but what are they, exactly? Do they just affect businesses and governments, or can individuals be hit, too? Stephanie Helm, Director of the MassCyberCenter, talks with Nichole about the ins and outs of these cyberattacks, how phishing can make you vulnerable, and how you can protect yourself. Todd Glickman, a volunteer at the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine, joins Nichole to share the incredible history of the fleet of trolleys, buses, and trains they have on their 300 acre museum lot.
Chris Besse, the Public Information Officer at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, joins Nichole to talk about the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, which is already underway. Chris has tips on what you need to focus on to prepare for whatever sort of tropical weather comes our way, and insight about just how busy this storm season could be. Catherine T. Morris returns to the show to talk about her festival, BAMSFest, and how they work to uplift Black and Brown creators in the Greater Boston area. This year's festival is called "Amplify the Soul", and Catherine has details on the lineup, along with perspective on how creators are feeling post-pandemic.
Zoe Bradford, co-founder and President of the Company Theatre in Norwell, joins Robert Cinnante, the President of the South Shore Conservatory, to talk about their respective upcoming summer seasons. Now that COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted here in Massachusetts, Zoe and Robert describe the measures they're taking to keep people safe as the venues reopen. They also take a look back on how their organizations have weathered the past year and a half. Pierce Durkin, the Director of Operations for Boston Pride, joins Nichole to talk about this year's events to mark Pride month. Pierce and Nichole talk about the history of the Pride movement, and touch on Boston Pride's efforts to promote more equity in their ranks through their "Transforming Boston Pride" initiative.
Marshall Strauss, co-owner of Cinema Salem, and John Andrews of Creative Collective join Nichole to talk about their renovations of the North Shore landmark. The theater closed during the pandemic and changed ownership during that time. Marshall and John talk about their vision to not only get the theatre back up and running, but also create a special space for the region's arts community. Chris Connolly of Herb Connolly Auto Group in Framingham has insight on the recent spike in car prices. It's all thanks to microchips, and a major worldwide shortage. Chris explains why the microchips are so important, what's fueling the shortage, why your dealership wants your car to resell, and when supply might start to bounce back.
Dr. Terri Bright, Director of Behavior Services at MSPCA-Angell, joins Nichole on the show to talk about separation anxiety - that is, in your pets! Now that so many of us are going back to the office as restrictions ease, Dr. Bright has advice on what you should look out for and how you can help your dogs, cats, and other furry friends ease into this new schedule. Then, Nichole is joined by members of the Picker Artists in Nashua, NH. Gail Moriarty is the President of the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium, Jim Larson is the Artistic Director of the Symposium, and Kate Pritchard is a board member. Together, they talk with Nichole about this year's event, how COVID-19 affected the members of the collective and their work, and a new project utilizing origami cranes to bring some hope and light to patients at a local hospital.
Renee McInnes, the CEO of NVNA and Hospice, joins Nichole to talk about the impacts of COVID-19 on the hospice industry. Renee has details on how nurses and health care providers are holding up, how they've had to innovate, and how they're helping to get the vaccine out to those who can't make it to vaccination sites. Nora Valdez, a Boston-based artist, talks with Nichole about her new project, "We Heal". Nora connected with people diagnosed with cancer in the Boston area to find out what brings them comfort and peace in difficult times. She also talks about other projects she's working on, including a push to build special benches in Vermont.
Melissa Grenier and Meghan Lemay from the Alzheimer's Association of MA/NH join Nichole to talk about their upcoming event, the Virtual Family Conference. This event, set for May 14 and 15, features several speakers and integral information for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia. There's help and support, too, for families and caregivers of those diagnosed, and those who want to learn more about the disease. Worcester Polytechnic Institute Biology Professor Pam Weathers talks with Nichole about their research of the sweet wormwood plant. Early research found extracts from the plant may be able to help in the fight against COVID-19!
Freya Shoffner of Shoffner and Associates joins Nichole for this week's episode to talk about all things small business: what sort of legal steps should you take if you just started a business during the pandemic? How do you go about getting assistance to keep your business up and running? Freya also talks about ways to get more women and BIPOC back into the workforce post-pandemic.
The city of Boston recently released its new "All Inclusive Boston" tourism campaign, focusing on an equitable recovery for residents and businesses in each and every neighborhood. Colette Phillips from Colette Phillips Communications, Hilina Ajakaiye from the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Daren Bascome of Proverb join Nichole to talk about how the campaign came together, how it uplifts growing BIPOC businesses, and the push to show all that Boston has to offer to the world. Professor Anne Pluto, the Artistic Director of the Oxford Street Players at Lesley University, details their new production, "Twelve Nights of Shakespeare". The Players had to innovate to celebrate their 25th anniversary in the age of COVID-19, and Professor Pluto explains how they turned to an idea from the past to make it happen.
Tony Fogg, the Boston Symphony Orchestra's Tanglewood Director, joins Nichole to talk about the upcoming season of concerts at the legendary venue. This season will be a bit shorter than most because of COVID restrictions, but there will still be plenty of incredible shows to see! Tony also details the precautions Tanglewood is taking to keep patrons and musicians safe. Andy Nash is the Meteorologist-in-Charge over at the National Weather Service in Norton. Their weather balloon station in Chatham has fallen victim to climate change and beach erosion, and after several decades, they have to close it down. Andy explains how this affects their forecasting and what they plan to do next. Nate Fishman, a Boston resident, has designed a new website called Urbnparks to help people get outside and enjoy all the green space Greater Boston has to offer. He talks with Nichole about why he put the site together and how others can help it grow.
Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show. He talks with Nichole about life in the restaurant industry now that restrictions are starting to ease. Marc also has updates on restaurant closures around the region, and offers up some recommendations for those looking to try something new.
Michael Wilson is getting ready to run across the country. The Newburyport native joins Nichole to talk from the shores of Hermosa Beach, California about his upcoming trip. Michael has details about his motivations, his plans to get back home, and the charities he's hoping to support. Scott Johnson from Connecticut recently went viral for his extraordinary Boston sports memorabilia collection, but the collectibles weren't the only reason he put it together. Scott explains his family's efforts to honor their late son, Connor, who took his own life after a years-long struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression and cancer. ++ CW: Suicide, addiction ++
Over the past few years, the historic homes at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire have been feeling the brunt of sea level rise. The museum has put together a new exhibit, in connection with their partners, for visitors to see first hand what the effects of climate change are doing to the museum, and how they can help. Rodney Rowland, the Director of Facilities and Environmental Sustainability, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the exhibit and the status of the beloved homes, which date back centuries. John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England, joins the show to talk with Nichole about their special virtual program for families, kids, and anyone who loves animals - virtual breakfast with animals at the zoo! John also shares conservation projects they're working on, and how the zoos are handling COVID as they reopen.
Sandy Gibson, the co-founder of Better Place Forests, joins Nichole to talk about a new way to memorialize loved ones who pass: surviving family members picking out a special tree in the Berkshires of Massachusetts or the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, and spreading ashes underneath it. Sandy has details on how families can take part, and the company's push to promote conservation efforts in New England forests. Cathryn Edelstein, a Senior Executive-in-Residence at Emerson College's Communication Studies Department, talks with Nichole about "On The Same Page", a campaign she runs with her students to provide diverse books to students in the Boston Public Schools. You can find their work on Facebook and Instagram @onthesamepageboston.
Luisa "Nana" Barros and Rebecca Ottinger from the Cape Verdean-Jewish Passover Seder join Nichole to talk about the history of the event, which brings together two disapora cultures to celebrate community and love. This year is the 15th anniversary of the event, and it's the first time it's going virtual, thanks to COVID. Nana and Rebecca have details about how you can take part from anywhere in the world. Gabriel Langfur is a professional trombonist who is serving as President of the Board of Directors for the New England Musicians Relief Fund. Musicians and other live performers have been struggling to get by throughout the pandemic, both financially and mentally. Gabe talks with Nichole about the resources available for musicians in our region, and what he expects the coming months will hold for these performers.
Grace and Dave, two residents of Boston's Allston-Brighton neighborhood, join Nichole to talk about community efforts to help those in need through special refrigerators set up around the city. The two talk about the process of teaming up with local businesses, sourcing the fridges, and how you can get one going in your neighborhood. After that, we hear from Allan Fitzmaurice, the Director of Consumer Affairs in Revere, and Bill O'Hearn, Chief of the Consumer Advocacy & Response Division at the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office. They have details on how the Commonwealth is marking National Consumer Protection Week, and resources available to help consumers who are struggling with scams or a difficult transaction.
Julie Bernson, the Associate Director of Learning at the Trustees of Reservations, talks with Nichole about their diverse offerings for day camps this coming summer. Julie also details the extensive steps they're taking to keep kids safe from COVID-19, and a special camp option for adults! Jamaal Eversley, an artist from Randolph, has his "Real F.R.I.E.N.D.S." exhibit on display at Boston's City Hall. He talks with Nichole about his inspiration, the collaborative of other artists he worked with to pull the exhibit together, and his hopes to create art that's accessible to everyone.
Nichole speaks with Robert Corley, the CEO of Neighborworks Housing Solutions of Massachusetts, about a recent fire at the Marshfield Veterans Home. The facility was in the middle of a significant renovation, and not long from opening to take in veterans who are homeless. Robert talks with Nichole about the help they need from the community, and what's next for the project. Mimi Turchinetz, the Director of the Boston Tax Help Coalition, explains the free tax prep services that are available for many Boston residents. Mimi also details other ways the Coalition can help boost financial health, and what she expects this tax season to be like because of the pandemic.
Nichole checks in with Dr. Toni Choueiri, the director of the Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, about a new study focused on cancer screenings. Many stayed home instead of getting their recommended screenings in the early months of the pandemic. What does that mean for the fight against cancer now? C.R. Lyons, President of the Massachusetts Funeral Directors Association, talks about life in the funeral industry during the pandemic, and the Association's push to get priority access for a vaccine. Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn explains his recent call for a City Council hearing to find ways for the city to be more proactive in its fight against HIV and AIDS.
Nichole is joined by Massachusetts state representatives Chynah Tyler of Roxbury and Carlos Gonzalez of Springfield - both members of the state's Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. Rep. Tyler is about to become the youngest woman to ever lead the Caucus. The lawmakers talk with Nichole about the priorities of the Caucus in the new legislative session, and the strides the Caucus has made in recent years. Kathy Ohman, the Founder of FORWARD, has details on the organization's work to help provide safe, accessible homes for people with autism on Cape Cod.
Nancy Owens Hess, the Executive Director of Elizabeth Stone House in Boston, tells Nichole about their new project - a brand new center to help with transitional housing, child care, and community engagement for adult and child victims of domestic violence. Weeks before the center was supposed to open, there was a major accident, which is setting their timeline back by months. Nancy has more on how the public can help. MDAR Commissioner John Lebeaux talks with Nichole about winter farmer's markets here in Massachusetts and all they have to offer. The two also talk about how farmers are helping combat food insecurity during the pandemic, and how our shopping habits are changing because of the coronavirus.
Michael Colford, the Director of Library Services at the Boston Public Library, talks with Nichole about the library's new theme for 2021, "Repairing America". Colford details their schedule of guest speakers, and the organizations they're working with to help facilitate community conversations, provide educational resources for career development, and pick up a good book. Mike Ramshaw, team president of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, joins the show to talk about the life and legacy of their beloved bat dog, Ollie the golden retriever, who recently passed away.
Deirdre Calvert, the Director of the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services at the MA Department of Public Health, joins Nichole to talk about their new #StateWithoutStigMA campaign - a timely move as people struggling with substance abuse deal with increasing isolation because of the pandemic. Lyndia Downie, President & Executive Director of the Pine Street Inn in Boston, talks with Nichole about the efforts they're taking to help distribute the COVID-19 vaccine, and how the pandemic and difficult housing market's affecting their efforts to get people in safe, secure housing.
Like so much this year, the Boston Symphony Orchestra has had to make adjustments to how they celebrate the season with their "Holiday Pops" concert. Conductor Keith Lockhart joins Nichole to talk about their virtual move. Between holiday decorations and winter heating, fire safety is paramount this time of year. Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey has tips to keep you and your family safe. The virus is also forcing Boston's New Year's Eve celebration to go virtual. TK Skenderian from First Night talks about how you can catch this year's 6+ hour lineup of performers from all over the region. WBZ's Carl Stevens has a touching story from Salem, about a group of friends who come together to help a woman in her final days.
Edmund Barry Gaither, the Director and Curator at the Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists in Roxbury, joins Nichole to discuss this year's performance of Langston Hughes' "Black Nativity". This year's performance marks 50 years since the show arrived in Boston, and the pandemic's not stopping the museum from celebrating. Lynne Bourque and Alicia MacDonald from Littleton started a holiday tree scavenger hunt in their town four years ago, and they talk about how getting outside for some fresh air's an extra special way to celebrate this season. Julieane Frost from the Worcester Art Museum details their ongoing holiday celebrations, "Zip Zoom Tours", and new exhibits as we enter the new year.
Mark O'Donnell, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts, tells Nichole about the program's efforts to connect kids in underserved communities with mentors at a time when both could use companionship and a friendly ear. Iaritza Menjivar of the Somerville Arts Council joins artist Asia Kepka to detail their work on the new "Somerville Remembers" project, which pays tribute to residents of the city lost to the COVID-19 virus.
Robert Lewis Jr., President and Founder of the BASE in Roxbury, joins Teamsters Local 25 President Sean O'Brien to talk about their new partnership focusing on providing new job opportunities to inner-city youth. They talk with Nichole about their goals, their job training programs, and their hopes for future generations. Bonnie Roalsen, the Director of the Woburn Public Library, joins Nichole to talk about a new art exhibit, "Brighter Connected", which showcases Jewish art as we approach Hanukkah.
Mark Ericson from Special Olympics of New Hampshire joins Nichole to talk about all the ways they're helping athletes stay active and healthy, even though some of their normal activities have been cancelled because of the pandemic. He also has details on their Virtual Torch Run and the upcoming Penguin Plunge! Emily Shea and Eugenia Soiles with Boston's Age Strong Commission explain how you can help them decorate holiday cards to keep seniors smiling this season. Christina Smart of Whitman's been working for five years to collect toys and gifts each holiday to distribute to kids in psychiatric hospitals. She'll have details on how you can help. WBZ's Carl Stevens takes a closer look at the state of mental health in Massachusetts several months into the pandemic.
Project Bread President Erin McAleer returns to the show to give Nichole an update on programs in place to help Massachusetts families stay fed and nourished this holiday season. She also has details on their FoodSource hotline, and information for those needing assistance because of the pandemic. Terry Maxey, the Agency Director at Open Pantry Community Services in Springfield, talks about critical services they provide for people in need, including access to housing for those in recovery and assistance for teen mothers.
Mickey Cockrell, the CEO and co-founder of Catie's Closet in Dracut, comes on the show to talk with Nichole about the non-profit, which gets toiletries, clothes, accessories and outerwear out to children and teens in need. Normally, they help operate "closets" in dozens of schools, but they've had to find a new way to get these critical supplies while children learn remotely. Karen Dourdeville, the Sea Turtle Stranding Coordinator at Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary, tells us why turtles are starting to wash up on Cape Cod's beaches, either "cold-stunned" or dead, and what you can do to help save their lives.
Karla Hostetler, the Director of the Mariposa Museum in Peterborough, NH, joins Nichole to talk about the re-opening of the museum's "Freedom Songs" exhibit, which takes a look at the American experience through Black art. Karen Hallisey-Pesa, the program director of Regis College's Dental Hygiene program, joins student Jordan Ferris to talk about their efforts to offer affordable dental care to residents in the Waltham area. WBZ's Laurie Kirby has details on a major grant recently awarded to researchers at two Boston-area hospitals studying how race affects breast cancer treatment and survival rates.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This week's show includes two women working hard to protect survivors. Diana Mancera, the Director of Membership and Programs at Jane Doe, Inc., talks with Nichole about how they team up with public and private agencies in Massachusetts to work on legislation and direct resources to those organizations. Kourou Pich, the Executive Director of HarborCOV in Chelsea, talks with Nichole about their work to provide immediate assistance to survivors, and domestic violence in the immigrant community. +CW: Discussion of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and financial violence against partners+
WBZ-TV Chief Meteorologist Eric Fisher joins Nichole on the show to talk about the dry conditions we've been dealing with lately, how it affects the foliage forecast, and what we could have in store for the winter. DCR Commissioner Jim Montgomery talks about COVID-19 precautions at the state parks, and the amenities they have to offer those who want to get outside. Marc Hurwitz has details on the Appalachian Mountain Club's hikes around New England, and some tips on hidden gems for you to find on a day off.
Sarah Munsen from Nantucket Cottage Hospital joins Nichole to talk about their new Grief Project, launched to help residents of the island work through the difficulties brought on in life by the pandemic, and the losses they've felt. Kathleen Jodka, the founder of the Mad Love Music Festival, explains the ways they're modifying their event this year to bring the spirit of the event to everyone's home. WBZ's Kim Tunnicliffe talks with Lara Shelton of Wayland, a professional ice skater who details the troubles her sport's facing because of the pandemic, and ways you can help.
Lisa Gurgone, the Executive Director of Mass Home Care, tells Nichole about a new rideshare program in the Merrimack Valley for seniors to get to and from their appointments. She also has details on services to help keep their loved ones safe and healthy during the pandemic. Cecilie Pope, a volunteer with Circle of Hope, talks about the Needham nonprofit's efforts to get critical supplies out to the homeless here in Massachusetts as we make our way into fall. Plus: part of a conversation between WBZ's Drew Moholland and Berklee College of Music President Roger Brown!
Susan Strate, the senior program manager for the Population Estimates Program at the UMass Donahue Institute, joins Nichole to talk about the ins and outs of the 2020 Census, and how the data collected from the count is used to directly affect our lives here in Massachusetts. Carmen Plazas and Lisa Simmons from the Massachusetts Cultural Council detail their new Racial Equality Listening Sessions, where they hope to spark a conversation with members of the Commonwealth's cultural sector to bring about meaningful, systemic change.
Marc Hurwitz from Boston Restaurant Talk / Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show for a six month check-in on the restaurant industry as it deals with fallout from the pandemic. Marc details some of the iconic New England eateries that have closed their doors, and some newcomers on the scene. Marc and Nichole also talk about how workers are feeling, how our eating habits are changing, and much more - also, answering listener questions!
Samantha Phillips, the Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, chats with Nichole about Emergency Preparedness Month. She's got tips for how you can ensure your family's ready for any disaster that comes, and how to do so affordably. Paddy Swanson, the Artistic Director of the Revels in Watertown, recalls the history of the group as they mark 50 years at the Sanders Theatre in Cambridge. He also has details about their upcoming Christmas celebration, and how the public can get involved to make their (singing) voices heard.
Christina Pendleton, the founder of LiKen, joins Nichole to talk about her efforts to provide comfort and help for Massachusetts teens struggling with the fallout from substance abuse in their families. Stephanie Helm of the Mass Cyber Center has details on their new mentorship program, which focuses on diversity as they connect young students with members of the cybersecurity industry.
T. Michael Thomas, Founder of The People's Academy in Dorchester, joins Executive Director Tanisha Stephney on this week's show. They talk with Nichole about how the Academy works with disenfranchised young people in the city to teach them essential skills for the trades, and offers them life lessons to get them on a strong path for their future. Toni Eaton, the President and CEO of Old Colony Hospice in West Bridgewater, has details on their new "Threads Boutique" coming soon to Brockton. Profits from that store will help fund their new hospice home in Braintree.
Bonus stories this week from WBZ's Karyn Regal, Kim Tunnicliffe, and Shari Small!
Heidi Schork and Liz O'Brien from the Mayor's Mural Crew talk with Nichole about this summer's group of Boston teen artists, and how they helped kids handle the COVID19 crisis by channeling their creativity. Bill McKenzie, president of the Friends of Endicott Park, explains the efforts to revamp the Townley Family Children's Barn, a Danvers institution that's been around for more than a century. WBZ's Ben Parker guests on the show with Harry Kokkinis, the president of Table Talk Pies in Worcester, as they discuss the company's new bakery and what's ahead for the New England mainstay.
Josh Trautwein, Co-Founder of About Fresh, comes on the show to talk about their mission to get healthy food into the hands of Bostonians, and the programs they've rolled out to get it done. Sheena Collier, the founder of Boston While Black, details her new venture to help Black professionals network around Greater Boston, especially those who are new to the area.
One of Boston's best known landmarks, honoring the first all-Black regiment to fight in the Civil War, is getting a major facelift. Liz Vizza with the Friends of the Public Garden returns to the show to give us an update on the restoration process. Then, we dive deeper into the history of the memorial, and how it connects to the renewed push for racial justice and equity, with L'Merchie Frazier, the Director of Education and Interpretation at the Museum of African-American History.
Boston's new Chief of Equity, Dr. Karilyn Crockett, joins Nichole on the show to talk about her new role in Mayor Walsh's new cabinet-level office at City Hall. Dr. Crockett, a Dorchester native who lectures at MIT, discusses the steps the city's taking to tackle systemic racism. Rodney Rowland, the Director of Special Projects and Facilities at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, tells Nichole how the museum has been weathering the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they're trying to protect some of their historic homes from effects of climate change.
Tim Ritchie, the President of Boston's Museum of Science, joins Nichole to talk about the plans in place to get the museum up and running as part of Phase 3, and welcome the public back safely. Katie Hurwitz of Walpole tells Nichole about her new "porchfest" event in that town, and how she hopes to use live music to bring her community together as they fight COVID-19. Special guest interview from WBZ's Drew Moholland, who speaks with Olympic Gold medalist Meghan Duggan, a North Shore native!
Megan Winton, a research scientist with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, joins Nichole on the show to talk all things sharks! She details the different types of sharks we find off the coast of New England, and explains their behaviors. Megan also talks about the Conservancy's research, their Sharktivity app, and how people can keep themselves safe while they're near the water.
Mark Simos, Associate Professor of Songwriting at the Berklee College of Music, joins Nichole to reveal the winners of this year's "Songs for Social Change" contest. Marion Larson, Chief of Information & Education at MassWildlife, delivers a primer on the piping plover - a cute, small shore bird that needs a lot of space on our local beaches this time of year.
BAMS Fest Founder Catherine T. Morris joins Nichole to talk about the history of the urban arts festival, the relationships organizers build with creators of color in the Boston area and beyond, and how the festival's dealing with the coronavirus. Boston Restaurant Talk's Marc Hurwitz returns to the show to talk with Nichole about struggles owners are dealing with as they try to re-open for both indoor and outdoor dining. Marc lists some recent restaurant closures in the Greater Boston area, and offers some insider views on where the industry is going as we make our way into the "new normal".
Kathy Zagzebski, President and Executive Director at the National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay, talks with Nichole about how the Center's keeping up its work to provide critical care for seals, turtles, and other animals brought in during the pandemic. Katherine Taylor, a photojournalist from Somerville, tells the story of her new project "Masks of Boston". Taylor photographs residents around Greater Boston, asking them who they wear their mask for, and how they're handling the effects of the pandemic in their daily lives.
Jason Talbot, co-founder and Deputy Director of Artists for Humanity, tells Nichole about the organization's work to employ underserved teens in the city, provide them the space to create, and teach them critical business skills. Martha Plaza, a board member of Boston Pride, talks about this year's events - many of which are moving online as we deal with COVID-19. She also talks about what Pride is doing to support LGBTQIA+ communities of color.
Amina Edwards and Sarika Mendu from MBAs Fight COVID-19 have details on how their organization’s working to help connect MBAs with business owners, non-profits, and government agencies that need extra support to navigate the coronavirus pandemic. William Hu from Docemus Tutoring talks about how students at Boston Latin formed the non-profit to help provide free tutoring for other students in the Greater Boston area, in hopes of tackling inequities in the American education system. Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone details the city’s new “Shared Streets” program, and talks about plans to keep residents safe and healthy from the pandemic as the state reopens.
Medway Superintendent Armand Pires talks with Nichole about his district's new partnership with the Wheelock College at Boston University. Together, they're creating a module to help teenagers learn healthy ways to handle stress and anxiety, especially through the pandemic. Meghna Marjadi's a PhD candidate at UMass Amherst, and she's been working on a study to learn more about baby river herring - a fish that was once abundant here in Massachusetts, but isn't any longer. She tells Nichole about her work, and has details on how your family can contribute. We also hear from MGH's Dr. John Iafrate, detailing Boston's recent coronavirus antibody study.
Chuck Eaton, the Chief Executive of the Boy Scouts Spirit of Adventure Council, talks with Nichole about efforts to keep Scouts all over Massachusetts engaged and learning amid the pandemic. He also details plans for the Council's summer activities. Mike Keiley, Director of Adoption Centers and Programs at MSPCA-Angell, has updates about adoptions, fostering, and resources available for pet parents who are struggling to get by because of the virus.
++ CW: domestic violence, sexual assault ++
Stephanie Brown, the CEO of Casa Myrna in Boston, joins the show to talk about the state's "SafeLink" hotline program, which is powered by their advocates. She also provides information about what to look for when it comes to domestic violence, how advocates are handling the coronavirus crisis, and the resources available to help those in need.
|| SAFE-LINK HOTLINE: 1-877-785-2020 || https://casamyrna.org/get-support/safelink/ ||
Dan Yeager, Executive Director of the New England Museum Association, explains the impacts of the coronavirus on museums, big and small, across New England, and the measures those institutions are taking to try and stay open – not just now, but after the virus, too.
Attorney Nicole M. Bluefort answers listener questions about landlord and tenant rights connected to the coronavirus crisis, and details new emergency assistance for renters and homeowners in Massachusetts. Bill Moore, President of Project New Hope in Worcester, provides details about the food drives the organization holds twice a month, helping veterans of all ages ensure they have the food and supplies necessary to get by.
Victoria Waterman, CEO of Girls Inc. in Worcester, talks about the organization's new program to help get critical hygiene supplies into the hands of teens who need them. Kim Szeto, Public Art Program Director for the New England Foundation for the Arts, has details on the foundation's "Public Art Learning Fund", and how artists all over the region can take advantage of funds to help them grow in their practice.
CPA Katie Seekell joins Nichole to answer listener questions about the upcoming coronavirus stimulus payments, which are expected to arrive in the coming weeks from the federal government. Chad Bennett of Dark Monk in Charlestown explains how he and others at the makerspace made the decision to change course, and channel their efforts into getting health care workers personal protective equipment they desperately need.
Charlestown Face Shield Project GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/face-shields-for-local-boston-hospitals
Thomas Wilkins, the Boston Symphony Orchestra's new Artistic Advisor for Education and Community Engagement, talks with Nichole about the "Concert for Our City" and the power of music in trying times. Audrey Conquergood, the Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons Boston, has details on the group's new fund to ensure children in need all over Massachusetts have the essentials as unemployment soars and food insecurity becomes more prevalent.
Jean McMurray, the Executive Director of the Worcester County Food Bank, talks with Nichole about navigating the significant uptick in demand. She also touches on the status of local food pantries in her area, and how hoarding at grocery stores is cutting into the Bank's donations.
Dr. David Brendel, a psychiatrist from Belmont, answers questions about how the coronavirus can affect your mental health, and offers guidance on how to handle these trying times.
Boston-area restaurant blogger Marc Hurwitz (Boston Restaurant Talk, Boston's Hidden Restaurants) talks with Nichole about the effects of coronavirus on the state's restaurant industry, and the thousands of workers losing their jobs because of restrictions in place. They also consider what the industry might look like after the virus threat subsides. How many of these restaurants that closed down will be able to open their doors again?
Erin McAleer, President of Project Bread, talks with Nichole about resources for people who suddenly find themselves in a food-insecure situation, either from losing their job or not being able to go to school.
Dr. David Hamer, Professor of Global Health and Medicine at the Boston University School of Public Health and School of Medicine, comes on the show to talk about the coronavirus pandemic. Nichole talks with him about how the virus presents, what to expect in the coming weeks, and how to take care of yourself. Plus, he answers listener questions!
Ed Chase, the Director of CCRI at MassHousing, is also on the show. Four brand new grants were just approved for sober housing and recovery programs in Massachusetts. Ed and Nichole talk about those in depth, and the process that officials use to determine who gets those grants.
Playwright Lisa Rafferty joins Nichole to talk about her new work, "ONWARD - Votes for Women". The documentary play highlights some of the voices and perspectives of women who fought to secure the right to vote, and those who continue the fight for equal rights today. Ricky DeSisto of Cardinal Cushing Centers and Kathryn Prioli of South Shore Bank talk about their upcoming St. Patrick's Day fundraiser to send this year's graduating class at Cardinal Cushing on the "Trip of a Lifetime" to Disney World!
Dr. Aaron Schmidt, assistant professor of microbiology at the Harvard Medical School and Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard answers listener questions about coronavirus. He also talks with Nichole about what the virus is, how much risk we are really under, and ways people can take effective preventive measures.
Michelle Loglisci with Massachusetts Residents Against Crumbling Concrete has the story of thousands of homes in central and western Massachusetts, built with concrete from a Connecticut quarry. The concrete was discovered to be contaminated with a mineral, pyrrhotite, which causes concrete to crumble. Now, the foundations of those homes are cracking, and she tells Nichole residents are desperate for help from Beacon Hill and the federal government to save their longtime homes - and avoid financial disaster.
Boston City Councilors Michelle Wu and Ed Flynn talk about their interactions with constituents in neighborhoods directly affected by Coronavirus fears, including Chinatown and the South End. They also discuss the hit to businesses, and resources for Bostonians to get more information about the virus. Mikaela McSherry, the Senior Director of Program Operations at Cambridge Network, talks about Chinese exchange students living in Massachusetts, how they're dealing with the pandemic, and support they're receiving from host families and schools.
Bethany Coito, Youth Services Coordinator for the New Bedford Public Library, is on the show this week to talk about their new program called “Wash and Read”. The library’s stocking books in laundromats around the city to keep kids entertained and engaged while parents take care of their laundry. Yoichi Udagawa, conductor of the Melrose Symphony Orchestra, details the symphony’s upcoming concert that focuses on friends, and special pieces that celebrate those relationships. Dr. Jennifer Schwartz is the Medical Director of Health Services at Wellesley College. The school’s started up a one of a kind partnership with Newton-Wellesley Hospital, where the hospital’s essentially taken over all the health services for students on campus. She joins Nichole to break down the services this covers, where the idea came from and how the rollout is going.
Rep. Chynah Tyler (D- Suffolk 7th) comes on the show to tell us about the Boston Black Restaurant Challenge. She talks with Nichole about the restaurants involved in the Challenge, how it was developed to honor Black History Month, and the extra set of hurdles Black business owners face - not just in Boston, but around the country. Genevra Morse, Director of Education and Online Programs for the New England Historical Genealogical Society, is on the show to talk about the Society’s new “Four Nation” Concert Series. This is the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower landing, but the history is far more complex than many of us may realize. Genevra explains the roles of the Dutch, English, and Wampanoag in the story of the Pilgrims, and details the lecture-concert series that kicks off next week with music that has roots from centuries ago.
Janet Lipkin, the volunteer coordinator at the Sudbury Senior Center, talks with Nichole about their program dedicated to helping seniors access important medical equipment. Erosion's wearing away at a neighborhood in Eastham, on the Outer Cape, and Town Administrator Jacqueline Beebe details the town's plan to fight back against the waves. Plus, bonus stories from WBZ's Ben Parker, Carl Stevens and Kim Tunnicliffe!
Nichole's joined by Marc Hurwitz, author of two well known Boston-area restaurant blogs – Boston’s Hidden Restaurants and Boston Restaurant Talk. We discuss the state of the Boston restaurant industry – why are so many of our favorites closing? He also gives us some recommendations, and we talk about road trip suggestions where you can get a great meal around New England.
Nichole speaks with four experts about all facets of postpartum depression, from the biology behind it to signs and symptoms. She also discusses resources for sufferers in New England and around the country, efforts to fight the stigma, and legislation from Beacon Hill to Capitol Hill.
She's joined by Jessie Colbert, the Executive Director of the Mass. PPD Fund; Dr. Leena Mittal, the Director of the Division of Women's Mental Health at Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Associate Medical Director for MCPAP for Moms; Dr. Lauren Brown, a clinical perinatal psychologist who volunteers with PSI Massachusetts; and Jamie Zahlaway Belsito, the founder of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
CONTENT WARNING: Suicide, depression, violence, mental health
Project Bread's Erin McAleer joins Nichole to talk about the state of food insecurity in Massachusetts, and what's being done to help everyone put food on the table. Mark Rousseau, a marine biologist with the Department of Marine Fisheries, talks about the Commonwealth's five artificial reefs off the coast, and how materials we discard can be turned into habitats for marine life.
Massachusetts State Treasurer Deb Goldberg tells Nichole about the state's new program to help families save for college from birth, Baby Steps. Julie Leven, Founder and Artistic Director of Shelter Music Boston, talks about the group's performances in homeless shelters and rehab centers across the state, and their mission to help those going through a vulnerable time through music.
Massachusetts' Deputy State Fire Marshal, Maribel Fournier, comes on the show to talk about all things fire safety as we get ready for the long winter ahead. Brooke Maher, the event director for Boston's First Night celebration, has all the details about the events scheduled to ring in the new year. WBZ reporters Kim Tunnicliffe, Carl Stevens, Karyn Regal and Kendall Buhl bring us stories from the holiday season around Massachusetts.
Jan Turnquist, the executive director of Orchard House in Concord, talks about their efforts to remember Louisa May Alcott, the author of "Little Women", as excitement grows for the new movie. Rodney Rowland of the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, NH has details about the museum's Candlelight Stroll, taking you back in time to holidays past.
Suzanne Maas, the Interim Executive Director and President of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, has details on this month's Festival of Trees in Wellesley, and how critical this fundraiser is to the group. Robb Osinski and Betty Gower of Bambu Global, based in Lowell, talk about groundbreaking technology that allows people to "turn off" their tattoos, and how they plan to help people with chronic medical conditions.
Sean O'Brien, the President of Teamsters Local 25, talks about their annual Christmas toy drive, and other charitable work union members are taking part in. Adam Vaccaro, transportation reporter for the Boston Globe, talks about the "Seeing Red" Spotlight investigation, and the state of transportation in Massachusetts.
Bill Hanney, owner and producer of the North Shore Music Theater in Beverly, comes on the show to talk about the return of a holiday classic. Concord's getting ready for a huge cheese parade, and Concord Cheese Shop owner Peter Lovis has all the details. Dr. Jillian Frank, a psychologist from Brookline, details her project that brings new life to American Girl dolls and gets them to foster children.
Dar Heikkinen, the Director of Outreach for the Clay Soper Memorial Fund in Winchester, talks about "If They Had Known", a documentary created to remember a life taken too soon and prevent more teen deaths from the mixture of alcohol and prescription drugs. Kara Elliott Ortega, Boston's Chief of Arts and Culture, talks about the city's search for its first ever Teen Poet Laureate. Julia Driscoll and Grace Moore talk about their upcoming Wicked Women Makers Market, which gives South Shore artisans a chance to showcase their creations. Special stories, too, from WBZ reporters Carl Stevens and Kim Tunnicliffe!
Mélida Arredondo, co-founder of the Arredondo Family Foundation, joins Herb Chambers Companies CEO Alan McLaren in the studio to talk about their annual turkey drive to benefit low-income veterans, families of the fallen, military families, and active duty members. Jason McCuish, a teacher at Lynn Vocational Technical Institute, and his student, Erick Hernandez, have details on their leadership group, SkillsUSA, and their push to build an inclusive playground at Harrington Elementary School.
Jasmine Grace, founder and director of Bags of Hope Ministries, comes on the show to tell her incredible story. Grace was trafficked for years, and was able to escape her abuser, only to fall victim to a drug habit. She details her path to sobriety, and how she's now able to pay it forward to help other women through her non-profit. This is the complete interview; an abridged version ran on broadcast radio.
Lynn Margherio, the CEO and Founder of Cradles To Crayons, talks with Nichole about clothing insecurity, how it affects low income families, and what we can do to help kids stay warm this winter here in Massachusetts. CherylAnn Gengel, the co-founder of Be Like Brit in Worcester, explains how her group is trying to assist their orphanage in Haiti from afar as political unrest continues. Ellen LeBow, an artist from Cambridge, details the decades of unique placemats she made for the now-shuttered Doyle's Cafe in Jamaica Plain.
Nichole speaks with Abby Kelly, the owner of Gluten Free New England, about living with food allergies and her directory of gluten-free-friendly establishments in New England. Lyndia Downie of Pine Street Inn joins the show to talk about their 50th anniversary fundraising drive to create more stable housing for Boston’s homeless. Liz Vizza, the Executive Director of the Friends of the Public Garden, has details on renovations coming to the Shaw 54th Memorial on Beacon Hill.
Nichole talks with New Bedford's Superintendent of Schools, Thomas Anderson, about new family engagement centers in the city's schools. Kay Herlihy from the Greater Haverhill League of Women Voters talks about her city's part in the suffragette movement and previews the weekend's Suffragette Parade. Darrin Korte and David Lightfoot Bellow from Cambridge's The Hip Hop Transformation tell us how they help teens tap into their creativity while learning about hip-hop music and culture.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's "New England Weekend" debuts! Nichole speaks with Marty Martinez, Boston's Chief of Health and Human Services, about the city's "Mass and Cass 2.0" plan. She also talks to this year's winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, Dr. William Kaelin of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Associate Professor Nikolay Anguelov at UMass Dartmouth about "fast fashion" and learning to shop sustainably.