New England Weekend

"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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.