New England Weekend

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 experiences... but the regional restaurant scene 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode is the second in a two-part series on human trafficking. For this portion of the series, we are focusing on the impacts of sexual and labor exploitation right 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 ++See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Penguin Plunge are back in-person this year on the shores of Hampton Beach and Lake Winnipesaukee. Mark Ericson has all the details if you want to take part to help a great cause.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 document their travels, 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.