Brave Little State

Do you know what rocker panels are? No? Well, one listener found out hers were rusted during her annual car inspection — and that they were in need of a pricey repair. Vermont is one of just nine states that still requires annual safety inspections for all cars. And over and over, car inspections — especially car inspections that end in failure — bring frustrated Vermonters to the BLS question box. Three listeners want to know why Vermont's inspection requirements persist, even as other states have axed theirs. And they ask: Do inspections actually make the roads here safer?For photos from our trip to Brian's North End Automotive (feat. Potato the dog) check out the web version of this story.Thanks to Keese Lane and Mike Santos of Essex Junction, and Julianne Jones of Derby, for the great questions.This episode was reported by Josh Crane. Editing and production from the rest of the BLS team, Sabine Poux and Burgess Brown. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Rick Green, Steve Belitsos, Brian Chase, Drew Cline,  Amy Tatko, Scott Davidson, Jeremy Reed, Ernie Patnoe, Pete Hirschfeld, Abagael Giles, Joey Palumbo, April McCullum, Melody Bodette, Mike Dunn, Andrea Laurion and Lola Duffort, .As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Vermont's logging industry has changed a lot over the last several decades. But one thing remains true: We just can't agree about how to manage our forests in the face of climate change.This raises a lot of questions about how Vermont should manage its forests — and it has led to heated debates around the state.For photos from the episode, check out the web version of this story.This episode was reported by Abagael Giles. Editing and production from the BLS team: That's Sabine Poux, Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Digital support from Zoe McDonald. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Katharine Servidio.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. Correction 5/9/25: A previous version of this story included an incorrect estimate for acres of forest that could be logged under the Telephone Gap Project. It has since been updated.

What does it mean to be a Vermonter if you've left the Green Mountain State? Reporter Myra Flynn brings us on a sonic journey across the globe from Los Angeles to the Dominican Republic, to Jamaica. There are love stories, tales of taking chances and conversations about what it means to call somewhere home. Thanks to question-asker Jesse Wingate of Virginia – formerly of North Troy, Vermont – for the great question. For photos and an episode transcript, head to our website.This episode was reported by Myra Flynn. It was edited and produced by Josh Crane, Sabine Poux and Burgess Brown. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

South Royalton has something that no other Vermont town does: a law school. But for a long time, there's been one rumor the town and the school can't seem to shake — that Vermont Law & Graduate School is on the verge of upping sticks for Burlington. Question-asker Tess Mix, of neighboring Tunbridge, has been hearing this rumor her whole life. She wants to know, is it true? And how reliant is the community on the law school, anyway?For more photos and an episode transcript, head to our website.***Get our brand new, limited-edition BLS beanie! You'll feel extra cozy and help support independent public media. Click here to get started.This episode was reported by Sabine Poux. It was edited and produced by Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Stephanie Clark, Don Hayes, Lisa Lance, Todd Tyson, Katie Merrill, Victoria Paquin, Andrew Hockenberry, Matthew McGovern, Drew Collins and Kelli Cigelnik.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

You can find the swoopy, stylized version of the word “Stowe” everywhere — police cruisers, store windows, a covered bridge. It's as if the entire town is part of one giant marketing campaign. Question-asker Joe Emery of Essex finds this sort of weird, and wants to know how it came to be.We made a video version of this episode! Check it out here. For more photos and an episode transcript, head to our website.This episode was reported by Sabine Poux. It was edited and produced by Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Nina Keck, Poppy Gall, Carrie Simmons, Amy Spear, Emily Hurd ,Tommy Gardner, Marina Gisquet, Abby Blackburn, Tim Hayes, Courtney Difiore, Sarah Tauben, Keri Smotrich, Maggie Hughes, Ezra Spring and the folks at the Stowe Free Library..As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Five mysterious disappearances were the talk of Bennington in the mid-20th century. Now, they've developed a cult following online. We revisit the initial cases and trace the rise of the “Bennington Triangle” in the popular imagination.Thanks to Kevin Landry of Claremont, New Hampshire for the great question.Check out the web version of this story here.This episode was reported by Howard Weiss-Tisman and produced by Burgess Brown. Editing and additional production from Josh Crane and Sabine Poux. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Laura Nakasaka, Jon Ehrens, Betty Smith, Eric Ford, Laurie Kigonya, Matt Harrington, Ashley Jowet, Nancy Koziol, PJ DeVito, Tyler Resch and Brian Campion.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

Check out the web version of this episode for photos and a full transcript. Thanks to Rosie Krueger for the great and timely question.This episode was reported by Josh Crane, with additional reporting from Lexi Krupp. Editing and additional production from Sabine Poux and Burgess Brown. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Digital support from Zoe McDonald. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions and Universal Production Music.Special thanks to Laura Nakasaka, Michelle Goodell, Phil Galewitz, Kiana Moore, Annie Mackin, Kristen LaJeunesse and Sara Teachout.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it: Ask a question about Vermont Sign up for the BLS newsletter Say hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevt Drop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.org Make a gift to support people-powered journalism Tell your friends about the show! Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Forests for the people! Democracy in the woods! Most towns in Vermont have a locally owned forest, but no two are exactly the same — and their stories are still unfolding.Check out the web version of this episode for photos and a full transcript. You can participate in UVM's town forest census project here.Thanks to Anne Wallace of Bristol for the great question. This episode was reported by Lexi Krupp. It was produced by Burgess Brown, with editing from Josh Crane and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Larry Bush, Neal Maker, Bob McCullough, Callie Brynn, Michael Giammusso, and Reg Dearborn.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Vermont used to have hundreds of dumps all over the state. These days, most of the state's trash ends up in one place: a landfill in Coventry. Question-asker Sylvia Dodge, of Lyndon, wants to know why all that trash ends up in just one small town. We visit the Coventry landfill, trash bag in hand, and talk to the people doing the dirty work. You can find photos from our reporting, and a full transcript for the episode, here.Share your feedback about BLS! We'd love to hear from you and it will help us make the show even better. Plus: prizes! This episode was reported by Mikaela Lefrak. It was produced by Josh Crane, with additional editing from Burgess Brown and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our intern is Catherine Morrissey. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Kari Anderson, David Littlefield, Chris Bray and Jeff Weld.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

We track down the Lorax of Vermont cemeteries and visit a farm in East Putney where the past and present collide.Share your feedback about BLS! We'd love to hear from you and it will help us make the show even better. Plus: prizes! Thanks to Kathleen Cuneen of Thetford for the great question. Check out the web version of this episode for photos and a full transcript.This episode was reported by Sabine Poux. It was produced and edited by Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sam Eaton, Tom Giffin and Martha Howard.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Alex Larrabee is in 10th grade at the Danville School in the Northeast Kingdom. She doesn't hunt, but her family does and her classmates do. And she's noticed that people who go hunting… it's not a casual interest. They're passionate about it. Alex, on the other hand, doesn't really get what all the fuss is about.Now, we at Brave Little State are not big hunters, and neither is Lola Duffort, our reporter for this episode. So, we figured the best way and probably the only way to answer Alex's question was to head into the woods and see for ourselves. We hope you'll tag along.Check out the web version of this episode for photos from our hunting excursion and a full episode transcript. This episode was reported by Lola Duffort. It was produced by Burgess Brown and edited by Sabine Poux and Josh Crane. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Abagael Giles, Travis Tremblay, Mike Covey, Matt Breton, Rachel Keach, Natalie Conway, Chris Bray and all the teachers and administrators who helped facilitate the high school voting round that led to this episode.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

It's been seven years since Colorado-based Vail Resorts bought the ski resort at Stowe. Almost immediately, Vail cut the cost of a season pass there in half. But cheaper skiing hasn't deterred people from lampooning Vail online or displaying angry bumper stickers in ski town parking lots — spotlighting a tension over the soul of Vermont ski culture and ski towns. In this episode, we look into what's changed since Vail's entry here, from chairlift upgrades to stress on the housing market. Plus, a general sense of transformation that's harder to pinpoint. Check out the web version of this episode for photos from our reporting and a full episode transcript. And to learn more about a new exhibit on Vermont's lost ski areas, check out the Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum in Stowe.Thanks to Nathan Evans for the great question.This episode was reported by Sabine Poux. It was produced and edited by Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to Laura Nakasaka, Abagael Giles, Nina Keck, Robert Parrish, , Jason Blevins, Tom Gianola, Lindsay DesLauriers and Izzy Mitchell.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Government for the people! A beacon of democracy! The Postal Service has been essential for free speech and the circulation of ideas since before the founding of the United States. These days, it's becoming increasingly important during elections, as more people vote by mail. And it's still a vital part of many communities, from beloved local mail carriers to shiny, gold P.O. Boxes in general stores.But in recent years, it's been struggling to make good on its public service — and Vermonters are fighting back. Check out the web version of this story here.If you have questions about the 2024 election and its aftermath you want us to answer, we'd love to hear from you. There's a form on our website, or leave us a voicemail at 802-552-4880.This episode was reported by Burgess Brown. It was produced and edited by Josh Crane and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Zoe McDonald, Bob Kinzel, Adiah Gholston, Rachel Hellman, Paul Montague, Trevor Braun, Alexia Murray, Bruce Olsson, Ned Swanberg, Justin Hopkins and Alice Angney.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

We're sharing a story from New Hampshire Public Radio's Document team.A young police officer unexpectedly finds herself back in New Hampshire, and she's not the same person she was when she left. Something happened to her – to all of us. But for Officer Emelia Campbell, this thing still lives in her brain and her body.NHPR's Lauren Chooljian brings you Emelia's story of survival and resilience in the wake of Jan. 6, 2021. You can find the full transcript here. Heads up: This episode contains unbleeped swears and mentions of death by suicide. If you need support, call or text 9-8-8, or click here, for the Suicide and Crisis lifeline. This story was reported and written by Lauren Chooljian. Jason Moon produced and mixed this piece, and composed all the music. Katie Colaneri was the editor, with additional editing by Dan Barrick, Todd Bookman, Taylor Quimby and Kate Dario.Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!

Climate change is here. So is Vermont's energy transition. Ahead of the 2024 election, voters want to know: How do they fit in?Environment and climate reporter Abagael Giles looks into efforts to both mitigate and adapt to climate change in this pivotal moment. And she explores how Vermont can make sure its most remote communities aren't left behind. Thanks to Laura Zettler of Fairfax and Pam Ladds of Newport for sharing their curiosity with us. There's a full transcript for this episode here. If you want to learn more about the Affordable Heat Act or any other Vermont climate policies — and to find out more about where specific candidates stand on climate issues — click here.And for more about how climate change is impacting Vermont, check out more of Abagael's recent reporting.This episode was reported by Abagael Giles. It was produced and edited by Josh Crane, with help from Sabine Poux, Burgess Brown, Brittany Patterson and Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Mark Davis, Rachel Cleetus, Terry Callahan, Jennifer Durgan, Tony Eprile, Donna Smyers, Johanna Nichols, Jennifer Francoeur and Jenel Ronn.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

For centuries, humans have transported plants and animals and fungi all around the globe. Whether exotic plants for a home garden or spores hitching a ride on a boot, flora and fauna have found their way into ecosystems that were unprepared for their arrival. These “invasive species” have no natural predators to keep them in check and in that absence, they wreak havoc. But which of these species has wreaked the most havoc in Vermont? That's what Ashley Wojnarowski and Mike Mezzacapo of Pomfret want to know.Josh Crane searches for answers and falls into the “bottomless pit” of invasive species management — and he gets up close with one of  Vermont's most fragile ecosystems. For photos from our reporting, check out the web version of this story.For help with species identification and to record your findings, check out iNaturalist.This episode was reported by Josh Crane. It was produced and edited by Sabine Poux and Burgess Brown. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Mike Bald, Betty Smith, Lexi Krupp, Abagael Giles, Corey Dockser, Charlie Nardozzi, Tim Parsons, Mary Walz, Mike Kiernan, Elise Schadler, Kim Jensen, Noah Hoffman, Evan Horne, David Moroney, Jay Herbert, Jack Lentz, Don Wenner, Virginia Barlow, Tony D'Amato, Markus Bradley, Mariano Rodriguez-Cabal, Noelia Barrios-Garcia, and Mary Holland.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

The “girlie shows” are long gone from the county fairs. Former clubs like Planet Rock in Barre and Club Fantasy in South Burlington have all shut down. Vermont is now the only New England state without strip clubs. One stripper who grew up in Vermont reached out with a simple question: Why?For photos from our reporting, check out the web version of this story.Thanks to Susan Meiselas and Magnum Photos for the materials from Carnival Strippers and Carnival Strippers Revisted. This episode was reported by Sabine Poux. It was produced and edited by Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Additional support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Liam Elder-Connors, Jeff Haig, Steve Taylor, Scott Rogers, Fern Strong, Elaine Howe, Gail Weise, Jordan Mitchell, Matt Sutkoski, Lydia Flanagan and The Mutual Zine Society, as well as everyone we spoke to at the Tunbridge World's Fair: Gary and Martha Howe, Baxter Doty, Dave Smith, Louise and Frank Mier, Elliot Morse, Betsy and David Race and Gary YoungAs always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

For as long as Carly Berlin has been reporting on housing issues for Vermont Public and VTDigger, she's been hearing some version of this question: Is Vermont's rise in homelessness due to unhoused people moving here from out-of-state?She hasn't been able to track down an easy answer to this question. And in the absence of information, the idea that Vermont's benefits are a “magnet” for those experiencing homelessness has taken root, from the aisles of grocery stores to the Statehouse floor. It's a narrative that's shaping the conversation about homelessness in Vermont, and what the state should do to address it.But is it even true? In this episode, Carly goes digging for data.Find the web version of this story here. Thanks to Joseph Valaske and Mark Tarmy of Putney for sharing their curiosity with us. This episode was reported by Carly Berlin and produced by Burgess Brown. Editing and additional production from Sabine Poux and Josh Crane, with support from April McCullum and Alicia Freese. Angela Evancie is our executive producer. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Lola Duffort, Laura Nakasaka, Sophie Stephens, Jess Graff, Sarah Russell, Rick DeAngelis, Frank Knaack, Stephen Waclawik and Mary Mojica. As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

A chapter of Northeast Kingdom history that is most mysterious. A man whose talent and ambition led him down a perilous path. To answer a question from Eric Lucier of Jay, Henry Epp tells the story of the Space Research Corporation and its founder, Gerald Bull.We originally released this episode in 2022. Check out photos of the Space Research Corporation site, then and now, in our web feature.Henry Epp reported this episode. It was produced by Angela Evancie, with additional editing and production by Myra Flynn and Josh Crane. This encore presentation was produced by Burgess Brown. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Anna Ste Marie, Kevin Trevellyan, Mark Davis, Michael Rogers, Kate Phillips and Paul Carnahan.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public.

What's summer without a road trip? Every year, Brave Little State travels around Vermont to find the stories behind the road signs. But even with several years of investigations under our seatbelts, we're still finding plenty of surprises. This year, we looked into the stories behind Lake Willoughby, Hells Peak Road and Pumpkin Harbor Road. You can find the web version of this story here. And psst — check out our new Brave Little State landing page, which, for the first time, has a searchable archive of all our past episodes.Check out our previous brief histories of Vermont road names:2023: Tigertown, Hateful Hill and Gerts Knob2022: Iranistan Road, a Jericho grab bag and punny highway signs2021: Cow Path 40, Agony Hill Road, Texas Falls2020: Devil's Washbowl, Popple Dungeon Road, Lost Nation Road, Smuggler's Notch2019: Mad Tom River Road, Hi-Lo Biddy Road, Star Pudding Farm Road, Sawnee Bean Road2018: States Prison Hollow Road, Poor Farm Road, Lime Kiln Road, Kelley Stand RoadThis episode was reported, produced, edited and mixed by Adiah Gholston, Burgess Brown, Samantha Watson and Sabine Poux. Our managing editor and senior producer is Josh Crane and our executive producer is Angela Evancie. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music. Other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Thanks to this year's question askers: Beverly Decker, Sarah Hazleton and John Finlay.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

Whew… a big question. And certainly not one with a yes or no answer. Happiness looks different depending on who you ask. So we visited five Vermonters to learn what happiness looks like to them. Question-asker Courtney Rabuffo is a recent transplant to Vermont. She's found a lot of happiness in her new home in North Hero. But she wants to know how other Vermonters are faring, which is why she asked us: "Are Vermonters happy? And are they happier than people in other New England states?"Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported by Mitch Wertlieb and produced by Sabine Poux. Editing and additional production from Josh Crane, Burgess Brown and Kevin Trevellyn. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music. Other music by Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to Zoe McDonald, Winona Johnson and Heather Call.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Jeezum crow, is it tough to find the origin of the phrase ‘jeezum crow'! Join us for our exploration into this quintessential Vermont saying, as we journey from folklore to linguistics to… crows.  Thanks to Sandra Bettis of Middlesex for the great question:“Where did ‘jeezum crow' come from and is it just a Vermont saying?”Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported by Mikaela Lefrak. It was produced and edited by Angela Evancie, Josh Crane, Sabine Poux and Burgess Brown. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music. Other music by Blue Dot Sessions and Banjo Dan.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Laura Nakasaka, Jim Stanford, Martha Barnette, Grant Barrett and Mary Danko.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

Here we are again. Exactly one year after historic floods ravaged Vermont, parts of the state are again dealing with devastating flooding following heavy rains. We turn back to a 2023 episode about how understanding why these floods are so destructive is not as simple as measuring rainfall. Last year, reporter Lexi Krupp took on what turned out to be a very timely question from Gus Goodwin of East Montpelier. He wanted to know: “What does an old stream look like? Does Vermont have any? And can we manage for them?”We're revisiting that episode as Vermont assesses the damage from yet another round of flooding. You can find the web version of this episode here. For the most up-to-date flood coverage, you can visit vermontpublic.org. This episode was reported by Lexi Krupp and produced by Josh Crane with help from Mae Nagusky. This re-run was produced by Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's executive producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons. Other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Mark Davis, Mikaela Lefrak, Bill Keeton, Mary and Greg Russ, Ellen Wohl, Will Elridge, Skip Lisle and Elizabeth Trail.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

For about a century, a farm operated on a hillside in Hardwick. At one point, it was said to have one of the finest herds of cows in town. But life for those working the farm was less rosy. They were known as “inmates” — though they hadn't committed crimes. This was Hardwick's “poor farm.” Vermont towns used to be required by law to provide welfare locally. That's where poor farms came in. A listener from Shelburne wants to know if there's anything we can learn from this approach — in spite of its problems:“What were Vermont's 'poor farms' like, and could parts of the poor farm model of local aid be adapted for the needs of today?”Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported by Elodie Reed and produced by Sabine Poux. Editing and additional production from Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's executive producer. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Zoe McDonald, Lexi Krupp, Erica Heilman, Liz Gauffreau, Tara Reese, Kent Osborne, Carlotta Hayes, Eric Jonathan, Jackson Miller and all the folks we spoke to at Heartbeet LifesharingAs always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Hours and hours of calls. Months-long waitlists. Vermonters are spending a lot of time looking for primary care providers — and those providers are struggling, too.Question-asker Jen Kaufman is a doctor practicing in Vergennes who got into primary care because she likes spending time with patients. But she's cut back on her hours seeing patients to manage her workload. She wants to know: What is the state of primary care in Vermont and where is it anticipated to go? Why is it so hard to get a primary care provider?Find the web version of this episode here.If you can, help us keep Brave Little State free for everyone by making a gift to Vermont Public at this link. It isn't possible to make this show without your support. Thank you!This episode was reported by Lexi Krupp and produced by Burgess Brown. Editing and additional production from Sabine Poux and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's executive producer. Theme music by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Bobbie Groves, Alex Spieler, Jon Holmer, Gary Drown, Paul Capcara, Jessa Bernard, Susan White, Stuart May, Yalda Jabbarpour, Margaret Gadon, Leigh LoPresti, Fay Homan, John Saroyan, Jess Moore, Sheila Keating, Kristin Barnum, John Olson and Stephanie Pagliuca. As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network. 

Chittenden County has been using buses to move people around for almost a century. But with ridership down and the bus system heading toward a fiscal cliff, one listener wants to know — is there a better way?In the not-too-distant past, Burlington and its surrounding towns dreamt big transit dreams: more efficient buses, commuter trains and light rail. In 2024, those dreams remain unrealized or abandoned, and we're fighting to keep the system we do have alive.Winning question-asker Nathaniel Eisen wants to know what happened. He asks: Why doesn't Chittenden County have better public transit options?Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported and produced by Sabine Poux, with editing from Burgess Brown and Mark Davis. Our managing editor and senior producer is Josh Crane and our executive producer is Angela Evancie. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to Charles Dillard, Gregory Rowangould, Marshall Distel, Chris Cole, Patrick Garahan, Corey Dockser, Bobby Lussier, Jordan Mitchell, Richard Whiting, Patty Wight, Irwin Gratz, Caroline Losneck, Winston Lumpkins, Zack Barowitz and Paul Detzer and Elodie Reed.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

There's a tooth embedded in a retaining wall alongside East State Street in Montpelier. Who put it there?This question has been keeping Brave Little State producer Burgess Brown up at night. He and question-asker Elvira Dana channeled their best Holmes and Watson to crack this cold canine case right open. And they enlisted the entire town of Montpelier for help along the way. Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported and produced by Burgess Brown, with editing from Sabine Poux and Brittany Patterson. Our managing editor and senior producer is Josh Crane and our executive producer is Angela Evancie. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Ann Lee, Lexi Krupp, Tim Heeney, Kevin Marlier, Jason Kass, Gideon Kass, Natalie Kass, Dan Groberg, Paul Carnahan, Tom McArdle, Corinne Cooper, Steve Gray, Mike Doyle, and many many other Montpelierites for their help.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

It's the most wonderful time of the year. Vermont's messy transition from winter to spring always brings its fair share of surprises and obstacles. And this year has been no exception: The mud came early, and it came often.Keith Gadapee is on the front lines of battling mud season as road foreman for the town of Danville — which has more dirt roads than anywhere else in Vermont. We spoke to Keith back in 2022 for an episode we called “Mud Season Madness” and put your pressing mud questions to the expert. We dug out that episode for an encore and checked back in with Keith as this year's roller coaster of a season comes to a close.Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported and produced by Sabine Poux and Angela Evancie, with editing and additional production from Burgess Brown. Angela Evancie is our executive producer, and our managing editor and senior producer is Josh Crane. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to April McCullum and Sophie Stephens.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

If you live in a rural part of Vermont, you know it — the one-finger lift or full-hand gesture from the steering wheel. Everyone has their own take on the so-called “Vermont wave.”Who gets a whole-hand wave and who doesn't? When exactly do you do it and what does it mean? Reporter Nina Keck set out with question-asker Mica Tucker to learn the unwritten rules of the road and find out: “What's up with the Vermont wave?”Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported by Nina Keck and produced by Burgess Brown. Editing and additional production from the rest of the Brave Little State team: Sabine Poux and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's executive producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Brittany Patterson, John Delgadillo and Sophie Stephens. As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Two Abenaki First Nations headquartered in Canada contest the legitimacy of Vermont's state-recognized tribes. How are Vermont lawmakers responding? Last October, Brave Little State published “Recognized”: a three-part investigation into contested claims that Vermont's four state-recognized tribes are not legitimate. The Abenaki First Nations making those claims have called on Vermont lawmakers to reconsider the state recognition process. Reporter Elodie Reed followed up on her original reporting and shared her findings with The Frequency podcast host Mitch Wertlieb. We're resharing their conversation here.You can find a transcript of that conversation here.You can listen to the entire “Recognized” series here. This story was reported and produced by Elodie Reed, with help from Mitch Wertlieb. The Brave Little State team is Josh Crane, Burgess Brown and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. We'll be back soon with more people-powered Vermont journalism. As always, our show is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

This week, a story from our neighbors at North Country Public Radio. If All Else Fails is a recent podcast about the growing presence — and threat — of far-right extremism in northern New York, and the voters and local law enforcement that are engaging with the movement there.You can learn more about the series here. That's also where you can find photos from NCPR's reporting, and listen to the rest of the series.Heads up: The show contains some harsh language and some listeners might find certain parts of this episode disturbing.This episode was reported by Emily Russell and Zach Hirsch for North Country Public Radio, with grant support from Grist and the Center for Rural Strategies. A big thanks to NCPR for letting us share their show here.The Brave Little State team is Josh Crane, Burgess Brown and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. We'll be back soon with more people-powered Vermont journalism. As always, our show is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, better known as VAST, maintains more than 6,000 miles of snowmobile trails across the state. Today, snowmobiling is one of the top contributors to Vermont's winter economy. But for a sport so dependent on reliable snow, the future is uncertain.The majority of VAST trails are on private land. One of those landowners is winning question-asker Barb Huibregtse of Danville, who asks: “What is the impact of the VAST trail on Vermont's economy?”Find the web version of this episode here.This episode was reported by Howard Weiss-Tisman and produced by Sabine Poux. Editing and additional production from Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Augie Melendez, Brian Henderson, Joan Cwirka, Kevin McDonnell and Zachary Amerling.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

A smattering of Vermont and New Hampshire towns on either side of the Connecticut River are known collectively as the “Upper Valley.” We set out to learn more about the origin of that phrase, and what makes the Upper Valley a geographic and cultural outlier.Our mission comes from question-asker David Watts, of Norwich:“What is the Upper Valley? And how did it get its name?”Find the web version of this episode here. This episode was reported and produced by Josh Crane. Editing and additional production from Burgess Brown and Sabine Poux. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Mark Davis, Bill Kane, Pat Boerum, John Lowe, Richard Hastings and Kat Blanchard.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Vermont is home to almost 200 independent and locally funded libraries. This means they each must evolve to meet the unique needs of their communities with sometimes limited resources. That got listener Diane Church of Fairlee wondering:“How do our public libraries manage to stay alive and vibrant in this age of technology?”Vermont Public's Sabine Poux and Andrea Laurion visit two of Vermont's libraries to see how things are going.  Find the web version of this episode here. This episode was reported by Sabine Poux and Andrea Laurion, and it was produced by Burgess Brown. Editing and additional production from Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Catherine Delneo, Oceana Wilson, DeAnna Romstad, Max Maylin, Carol Plante, Sarah Lloyd and Paul Dunn.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Burlington has sister cities all over the world — including in Nicaragua, Mississippi and Japan. Winning question-asker Peg Clement is curious about the city's relationship with two, in particular: Bethlehem, in the West Bank, and Arad, in Israel. Find the web version of this episode here.The Burlington-Bethlehem-Arad sister city committee holds public meetings on the first Monday of every month in Burlington's Miller Center. You can find more information here.Additional resources:NPR: Special Series: Middle East crisis – explainedAl Jazeera: What's the Israel-Palestine conflict about? A simple guideVox: What are Israel and Palestine? Why are they fighting?The Washington Post: The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: A chronologyThroughline: A History of HamasThroughline: Palestine (from May 2021)The Ezra Klein Show: The Sermons I Needed to Hear Right NowThis episode was reported and produced by Sabine Poux, Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is our executive producer. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Sandy Baird, Prudence Doherty, Chris Burns, Rob Bliss, Emery Mattheis, Jonah Spivak, Jim Rader, and the CCTV Center for Media & Democracy.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

We journey into the weird world of Vermont's favorite jam band to explore the culture of "phandom” and Phish's early roots in our brave little state.We originally released this episode in 2021. In it, Ethan Weinstein of South Woodstock asks: “Why do people like Phish? And how did they become such a big part of Vermont music culture?”(Heads up: There's a bit of profanity in this episode, and some discussion of drugs and drug culture.)To see photos of Phish from their early Vermont days, check out our web post. You'll also find a Phish starter kit with resources to further your Phish education, should you so desire.Josh Crane reported this episode, with editing and production from Myra Flynn and Angela Evancie. Mix and sound design by Josh Crane. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music. Thanks to Phish Inc. for permission to use some of the band's music. Special thanks also to Jonathan Heller, Billy Glassner, Paul Brill, Stephanie Jenkins, Jay Curley, Anne Rothwell, Jenn Moore, Beth Montuori Rowles, Anna Van Dine, Mary Engisch, Peter Engisch, Laura Schoenfeld, Steve Zind, Patti Daniels, Chris Albertine, John Van Hoesen, Mitch Wertlieb, Alex Burns and everyone who left a voicemail on our Phish hotline — Chris, Chris, Christina, Jonathan, Jim, Antonia, Ron, Philip, Andy, Stephanie, Molly, Robb, Shannon, Bryant and Nina.Music featured in this episode, in order of appearance:"Orejitas" by Blue Dot Sessions“Gotta Jibboo” by Phish“Ghost” by Phish“Hardboil” by Blue Dot Sessions"BLS Theme" by Ty Gibbons“Sargento” by Blue Dot Sessions“Halley's Comet” by Phish“Trois Gnossiennes 3” by Blue Dot Sessions“Wilson” by Phish“The Queen of Cones” by Blue Dot Sessions“Tyrano Theme” by Blue Dot Sessions“The Curtain With” by Phish“Maldoc” by Blue Dot Sessions“Auld Lang Syne” covered by Phish“Leaves” by Phish“Cran Ras” by Blue Dot Sessions"Ferus Cut" by Blue Dot Sessions"BLS Theme" by Ty GibbonsAs always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on which question we should answer nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgMake a gift to support people-powered journalismTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a member of the NPR Network.

Volunteers were still pumping water out of basements from the July floods when another round of flooding hit this week. Vermonters on the front lines say the frequency of these events point to the need for more durable solutions.On this episode of Brave Little State, a question from Sophi Veltrop, of Woodbury:"How are towns hit by 2023 flooding doing? What locally-driven solutions are helping those most harmed and setting the stage to rebuild better?"Reporter Pete Hirschfeld talks to some of those who were hit hardest over the summer, from a family whose home is still uninhabitable to a woman on dialysis who lives alone. He also explores how local recovery responses are filling the gaps where state and federal relief have fallen short — as Vermont barrels toward a future filled with more severe, and more frequent, flooding events.Find the web version of this episode here.Pete Hirschfeld reported this episode. It was produced and edited by the Brave Little State team: Sabine Poux, Burgess Brown and Josh Crane. Angela Evancie is our executive producer. Ty Gibbons composed our theme music; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Lexi Krupp, Tom Drake, Sarah Henshaw, Rev. Dr. Wendy Jaine Summers and Meghan Weyland.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Vermont's pastoral, small town charm didn't just happen out of thin air. It's been legislated. And it's especially baked into one really important Vermont law — Act 250. But as Vermont changes, there's an increasing push for Act 250 to change with it. That's why Danielle Laberge of Wells submitted this winning question to Brave Little State: “What's the deal with Act 250, Vermont's signature land-use law? Why is it important and what's changing?”Reporter Sabine Poux digs into the story of Act 250, from its origins in the 1960s to a present-day battle over how it should be implemented. This isn't just a story about a law. It's a story about our shared values, and how we want our state to change — or not — over the next 50 years and beyond. Find the web version of this episode here.Sabine Poux reported this episode. Editing and additional production from Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Angela Evancie is our Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Sophie Stephens, Pete Hirschfeld, Bruce Post, Mikaela Osler, Marjorie Strong, Prudence Doherty, Katherine Sims, Peter Gregory, Caleb Elder, Todd Heyman, Christine and Mark Hughes, Brian Shupe, Mary Kasamatsu and Mimi Aoun.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

In recent years, Winooski, Montpelier and Burlington made it possible for all legal residents to vote — including asylum seekers, refugees and green card holders like our winning question-asker, Charlotte Blend. Charlotte has been excited to vote on local issues and she's curious about the impact of the rule changes in the towns where it's now legal. Reporter Mikaela Lefrak talks to new Vermont voters — and a lot of city clerks — about how the at-times controversial changes in local election policy have affected three Vermont cities, from their councils and school boards to their residents.  Find the web version of this story here.This episode was reported by Mikaela Lefrak and produced by Sabine Poux. Editing and additional production from the rest of the Brave Little State team: Josh Crane and Burgess Brown. Digital support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive producer. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.Special thanks to Martin Austermuhle, Elaine Wang, Liz Edsell, Tracy Dolan and Anna Tadio.As always, our journalism is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

We met Sweeney Grabin at a Brave Little State mixer last year, right after she moved to South Burlington with her husband and her baby, Maya. She wants to know how other parents with biracial kids are maintaining their heritage in one of the country's whitest states.Myra Flynn turns to old friends and her own experiences to answer Sweeney's question.You can find a full transcript of this episode here. Also, check out Myra's show, Homegoings, for more deep dives into race and identity.Myra Flynn reported this episode. The Brave Little State team is Josh Crane and Sabine Poux, with additional support from Sophie Stephens. Angela Evancie is Brave Little State's Executive Producer. Our theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions, Jay Green and Myra Flynn.Special thanks to Corey Dockser, Marlon Hyde and Erin Baker.Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the show!Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

Who gets to decide who is Abenaki? Vermont's four state-recognized tribes — and the state recognition law — have different definitions and criteria for what it means to be Indigenous than many Indigenous Nations. In this episode, we look at this disconnect, and lay out what's at stake, including power, money and authority.  This is Chapter Three of “Recognized,” a special series from Brave Little State. Chapters One and Two are available right now in this podcast feed. Find a transcript of the series here.And to learn more about our approach to this story, you can read our editor's note, here.***“Recognized” was reported by Elodie Reed. Sabine Poux is our producer. The senior producer and managing editor is Josh Crane. Additional editing from our executive producer, Angela Evancie, as well as Tristan Ahtone, Brittany Patterson, Myra Flynn and Julia Furukawa. Julia Furukawa, Corey Dockser and David Savoie contributed reporting to this episode. Extra support from Mark Davis and Sophie Stephens. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.There are lots of other people who contributed to this series along the way — too many to name everyone here. You can find a full list on our website..As always, our show is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the showBrave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.

After the original group of self-proclaimed Vermont Abenaki failed to gain federal recognition, Vermont lawmakers created a state recognition process of their own. One theory in particular informed the state's consideration: that Abenaki peoples hid in Vermont to avoid persecution, including statewide eugenics policies. In this episode, we look at recent evidence, as well as older reports, that cast doubt on this narrative.This is Chapter Two of “Recognized,” a special series from Brave Little State. Chapters One and Three are available right now in this podcast feed. Find a transcript of the series here. And to learn more about our approach to this story, you can read our editor's note, here.***“Recognized” was reported by Elodie Reed. Sabine Poux is our producer. The senior producer and managing editor is Josh Crane. Additional editing from our executive producer, Angela Evancie, as well as Tristan Ahtone, Brittany Patterson, Myra Flynn and Julia Furukawa. Julia also contributed reporting to this episode. Extra support from Mark Davis and Sophie Stephens. Theme music is by Ty Gibbons; other music by Blue Dot Sessions.There are lots of other people who contributed to this series along the way — too many to name everyone here. You can find a full list on our website..As always, our show is better when you're a part of it:Ask a question about VermontVote on the question you want us to tackle nextSign up for the BLS newsletterSay hi on Instagram and Reddit @bravestatevtDrop us an email: hello@bravelittlestate.orgCall our BLS hotline: 802-552-4880Make a gift to support people-powered journalismLeave us a rating/review in your favorite podcast appTell your friends about the showBrave Little State is a production of Vermont Public and a proud member of the NPR Network.P.S. A previous version of this story described Gordon Day as a historian. We have updated the audio to describe him as an anthropologist.