New England Weekend

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

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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+See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.