New England Weekend

Kids have packed school schedules these days, and the few precious minutes of recess they can get aren't often enough to run off all that pent-up energy. Over at Playworks New England, they believe recess is for much more than play - it's critical to help kids grow and learn important social skills. They're working in schools around the region to make that happen, and Max Fripp, the Executive Director of Playworks New England, joins the show this week to talk about their work and mission.

You may not think twice about paying that extra fee for canned soda, beer, seltzer, and other drinks at the grocery store, but how often do you bring the cans back to the store to get your money back? Over the years, Jeff Dinneen of Needham has made it his mission to collect those cans, redeem them, and use the money to supply the Needham Community Council with much-needed food and milk for local residents in need. He talks with Nichole this week about his inspiration, his process, and how you can help keep the project going.

Cardiac incidents occur without much warning, if any, and time is of the essence to save a life. CPR is important, but a device called an AED - automated external defibrillator - can restart someone's heart quickly, before serious brain damage can set in. While many offices, retail outlets and apartment buildings have these devices, it's not always clear where they are, and that's where Cardiac Crusade comes in. They're rallying volunteers around the country, including here in Massachusetts, to help them map these devices, with hopes of eventually working with tech companies to make it easy for you to find them in times of need. Founder Greg Coon and Massachusetts Executive Director Tyler Mola join Nichole this week to tell their story and share details about their upcoming event in Southie.

Whether you use needles, a loom, a hook, or even just your hands, there's a craft in the fiber arts space for everyone who wants to get creative. You'll never run out of ideas for projects, but those projects need yarn and thread to get done - and that's where the Greater Boston Yarn Crawl comes in! More than a dozen small yarn shops are taking part in this year's Crawl, including Sit 'N Knit in Melrose. Owner Jennifer Goldenberg talks with Nichole this week about the event and the recent surge of people joining the fiber arts community.

Dating these days can be a daunting experience. The dating apps can be full of rejections, scammers, and people who aren't always being truthful about who they really are. It might seem a little old-fashioned, but there are matchmakers around Greater Boston who say they're successful at helping singles connect in a more truthful, intentional way. Jill Vandor, Executive Matchmaker and Founder of Allure Matchmaking, talks with Nichole about how to stay safe while dating, the inner work that's necessary, and the benefits of a matchmaker helping you find love.

September is Suicide Awareness Month, and veterans are at especially high risk as they try to transition back into civilian life while dealing with stress, anxiety, and trauma they may have developed during their time in the service. A Danvers non-profit, Company 2 Heroes, is working with veterans and furry friends to help those vets regain their independence and ease their pain. Founder Kate van Auken talks with Nichole this week about the power of loving dedication that only a dog can provide, and how they're working with veterans to help train their very own support dogs.

For cancer patients, a diagnosis can not only be scary and overwhelming, it can also be financially devastating. One out of every three cancer patients finds themselves struggling to meet basic financial needs as they're going through treatment, yet another blow for people who are already suffering a traumatic event. Family Reach, a Boston-based non-profit, steps in to help patients stay afloat financially by connecting them to critical resources. CEO Carla Tardif joins Nichole on this week's episode to talk about their mission and the importance of their work.

This week, Amtrak introduced its brand new Acela trains to the Northeast Corridor, running inaugural trips between Boston and Washington. Officials say this upgrade has been a long time coming, with new "tilt" technology to provide a smoother ride and the potential for faster trips. Amtrak senior spokesman Jason Abrams talks trains with Nichole, sharing details about the new amenities and what you can expect on your next trip.

We're getting into perfect biking weather, and in just a couple of weeks, Winchester's Marlowe Foundation hopes you'll join them for a very special ride. They're biking from Winchester up to Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, all to raise money for some local non-profits doing important work with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stephen Roge, Co-Founder of the Marlowe Foundation, shares their story with Nichole and explains how you can take part.

It's been decades since Boston had a Labor Day parade, but that's all about to change. On September 1, 2025, the Greater Boston Labor Council will be putting on a parade to highlight Boston's deep connections to the labor movement through the past, present, and future. It's an event that's set to bring together union members and supporters from all over New England. GBLC President Darlene Lombos joins Nichole to talk all about it and share important planning info for parade-goers.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Project Save Photograph Archive in Watertown. Over the years, the archive's founder, Ruth Thomasian, has worked tirelessly to collect photographs of Armenian life. These photos showcase the Armenian experience before, during, and after the diaspora, and highlight how Armenians have been able to come together in community around the globe. Executive Director Arto Vaun joins Nichole on the show this week to discuss the archive's history, mission, and plans for the next 50 years.

Over in Easton, the House of Possibilities provides an array of services, training opportunities, and even a respite space for people with disabilities, all in the hopes of helping them find community and live as independently as possible. Recently, HOPe received a major grant from the Yawkey Foundation which they say will be transformative for their work. President and CEO Katie Terino talks with Nichole about their plans for the grant, their "home away from home", and their efforts to promote inclusivity.

Just two decades ago, Boston's Seaport neighborhood had a very different look: hundreds of acres of vacant concrete, used mostly for industrial purposes. You'd never believe it if you went there now, with former mayor Tom Menino's vision for an "Innovation District" having come to fruition. One of the main players in the development of the Seaport is The Fallon Company, and they recently topped off their final building on Fan Pier. Executive Managing Director Richard Martini joins Nichole to share the ins and outs of this decades-long project and his thoughts on the neighborhood's evolution.

Boston's North End is always the place to go for a filling meal and a warm welcome, but feast season is when the neighborhood truly shines! The Fisherman's Feast is the oldest continuously running Italian festival in the North End, and it returns this summer for its 115th year. From the ever-popular meatball contest to the iconic "Flight of the Angel", there will be plenty to enjoy and learn. Louis Strazzullo, Co-Chair of the Fisherman's Feast, talks with Nichole about the festival's deep roots to Sicily, the renowed traditions, and everything you can expect if you stop by August 14-18.

For more than 35 years, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester have offered a secure place for young people to be during the summer months, when they're not in school. This time of year is considered a "high-risk" period for violence and gang activity involving kids and teens, and the "Safe Summer Streets" program provides an engaging environment through sports, art, music, special events, and much more. CEO Bob Scannell and SVP of Operations Mike Joyce join Nichole this week to talk about this program, which they came up with together, and how it's made an impact curbing youth violence in their neighborhood.

Each and every year, the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts serve thousands of girls throughout the Commonwealth, offering them opportunities to build leadership and life skills. This time of year, it's all about summer fun through camps, troop activities, and much more, but it's important to ensure every child who wants to take part has the chance to do so. Theresa Lynn, CEO of GSCWM, talks with Nichole about their efforts to ensure girls in underserved communities have access to these programs, their upcoming events, and a very special camp anniversary.

Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire is going to be full of music, fun, dancing, and connection later this month for this year's New England BIPOC Festival. This event celebrates the many different cultures, racial backgrounds, and ethnicities that make up the fabric of life in New England, and it's completely free for the public to come and enjoy. David Vargas, Vice Chair of the Festival's board, joins Nichole to talk about this festival that has blossomed from a parking lot gathering to a beloved, growing regional event.

Nearly one out of every ten women around the globe have a chronic disease called endometriosis. This gynecological condition can be incredibly painful, at times debilitating. Advocates say the medical industry hasn't given this condition the attention it deserves, and many patients say they don't feel heard when they try to explain their symptoms. Lawmakers on Beacon Hill are now considering a bill that would create a special task force focused on improving research and treatment. Dr. Pietro Bortoletto, co-founder of Terra Fertility in Dedham, and his patient, Madeleine Rodriguez, join Nichole to talk about the condition and the efforts to bring more awareness to its impacts.

Kids love new books, no matter where you live! In the eastern Caribbean, many schools and libraries don't have enough books for children to enjoy, something that's contributing to child illiteracy. While people here in the US pull together book drives with the best of intentions, oftentimes, the books that arrive are either in bad shape or not culturally relevant. Hands Across the Sea buys books new and works with people in the Caribbean to distribute them where they're needed most. Ben Engle, the Executive Director of Hands Across the Sea, joins Nichole to talk about their mission.

A herd of magical unicorns is waiting for you to come say hello in Jefferson! The Farm at SummitWynds is holding its annual Unicorn Festival July 25, 26, and 27. It promises to be a memorable time with food, pony rides, a bouncy house, live music, and much more on the 32-acre farm in Central Massachusetts. Owner Amy Parker and her daughter, Amanda Morse, share all the details about this enchanting event with Nichole on this week's show.

When you're struggling or living alone, it can mean the world for someone to ask if you're okay. Seniors, people with disabilities or medical problems, and anyone else who is vulnerable in Norfolk County have access to a free program that provides frequent wellness checks when others may not be able to do so. Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott and NCSO Officer Cheryl Bambery are on the show this week to talk with Nichole about how the program works, why it matters, and how it's already being lauded for helping people in their time of crisis.

Colorectal cancer is showing up more often in younger generations, such as millennials. This type of cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death, but it's also easily preventable with regular screenings. It can be challenging for people in underserved communities to get access to these screenings, or even learn about them, so Mass General Brigham is making an effort to get the word out. Dr. Allison Bryant, MGB's Associate Chief Health Equity Officer, returns to the show this week to share information about this important campaign.

Tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents are officially unemployed, and trying to find a job isn't easy these days. Often, when you're switching careers, it can be difficult to know where to start, or what resources are available for you. ABCD and MassHire are teaming up to open a brand new career center in Roxbury's Nubian Square! ABCD's President and CEO, Sharon Scott-Chandler, returns to the show to talk about all it has to offer.

If you've ever applied for federal student aid to go to college or university, you've likely heard of Pell Grants. Students from working-class families around the country often rely on these federal grants to fill out their financial aid. However, as part of the new spending plan just passed by Congress, some big changes could be coming for those grants that are worrying local higher education officials. Nate Mackinnon, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges, talks with Nichole about the impact this could have on the state's community colleges and overall affordability for those who want to expand their education.

There's nothing quite like a tasty, nutritious meal full of fresh ingredients, especially if they're locally sourced. For almost two decades, the people behind the Island Grown Initiative have been working to build a local food system, helping the island's year-round residents ensure they always have healthy food on the table while teaching young people how to continue the work. Noli Taylor, Co-Executive Director of Island Grown Initiative, joins Nichole on the the show this week to tell their story.

While being a mom can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be exhausting mentally, physically, and emotionally, and sometimes you just want to connect with other mothers to get a boost. Boston Moms, a spinoff of Wicked Good Mom Media, says it's got just the thing for local moms this summer: "Wicked Good Playdates" at shopping centers around Greater Boston. Meghan Block, Owner of Wicked Good Mom Media, joins Nichole this week to discuss the importance of connection for mothers, no matter the age, and share details about the upcoming events.

Independence Day is on the horizon, and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge is holding a special celebration of America through the arts! "We Hold These Truths" will feature music, history, food, fun, and much more for people of all ages. Rockwell's known for his iconic paintings and drawings that highlight the experiences of mid-century America, which makes it a fitting place to celebrate our independence. Kathryn Potts, the museum's Chief Learning and Engagement Officer, joins the show this week to share the details of the upcoming event and all the campus has to offer.

We're a few weeks into hurricane season. Have you gone over what's in your "go bag", or double checked your evacuation zone? Not quite sure where to begin to make sure you're prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at us? Dawn Brantley, the Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about what you should focus on for your preps, and how cuts in federal funding for disaster response could impact our region.

A cancer diagnosis can be devastating for anyone, but it's especially so when it happens to a child. Families rally to support their loved one while they navigate treatment, but it can take a toll on everyone involved. Anna's Pals, a non-profit in West Roxbury, is slowly but surely creating a special getaway for these families where they can sit back, relax, and take a breath on the Cape. Kristina Jerome, Founder of Anna's Pals, shares details about their efforts to build this beach home in her late daughter's memory.

With all the damage we've seen from massive storms that have hit the US in recent years, including some devastating flooding right here in Massachusetts, there are a lot of questions about who, exactly, should get flood insurance. Is it worth it? Bill Martin, CEO of Plymouth Rock Home Assurance, talks with Nichole about the pros and cons, and what you should consider if you're thinking about a policy.

Despite all the rain we've had this spring (so many Saturdays washed out!), it's still a great time to get outside and explore in the woods, in meadows, up trees - you name it. Trouble is, in all those places, you're at risk of picking up a hitch-hiker: a tick! They can share some pretty concerning illnesses, but there are ways to protect yourself. Dr. Joao Tavares, Infectious Disease Specialist at Cape Cod Healthcare in Hyannis, joins the show this week for some "tick talk".

Scammers are always going to try and find a way to steal your hard-earned money, your personal information, your medical details - anything they can get from you. These days, that also includes your home and property, and they're doing it through "quit claim deed scams". It's happening in New Hampshire, so Senior Assistant Attorney General Brandon Garod talks with Nichole this week about how this scam works and share steps you can take to make sure your property isn't stolen from under your nose.

These days, you can get pretty much anything you want out of a vending machine, but they're also playing an important role in Boston's public health efforts. North End Waterfront Health is using these machines to provide basic necessities and harm-reduction supplies to people who are unhoused, low on cash, or navigating substance use. David Perry, Director of Substance Use Disorder Services, and Nadya Zaltsman, a recovery coach at NEW Health, are on the show this week to talk about the importance of low-barrier, judgment-free options to help people in need.

There's a lot of food out there that's perfectly good to eat, but, for whatever reason, isn't easily sold. Perhaps it has bruises, it's *just* past the expiration date, or the packaging is off. Meals made for big functions often just end up in the trash if no one comes to consume them. Spoonfuls in Newton, a "food recovery" service, works each and every day to track down consumables that are destined for the landfill and redirect them to people in need around the Commonwealth. Erin Keohane, the Chief Advancement Officer at Spoonfuls, talks with Nichole about their process, why their services are needed more now than ever, and the roadblocks they're dealing with involving federal funding and support.

Most of the clothing in our closets is a few years old, max. Maybe you have some vintage in there, but nothing quite like the closet at the Plymouth Antiquarian Society. They have a treasure trove of clothing that, in some cases, is centuries old! As we approach the nation's 250th anniversary, the Society is highlighting some of its prized Revolutionary-era pieces. Executive Director Patrick Browne shares stories about the collection and talks about the efforts they take to preserve these special garments.This segment is the seventh interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.

When we talk about the American Revolution, we're often talking about the patriots and revolutionaries who rose up and fought back against the British, especially in Massachusetts where so much of the movement took root. In Weston, there's a museum telling a story that you may not have heard that often: the story of the Loyalists, or Redcoats, who wanted to stay loyal to Britain. Katie Campbell, the Executive Director of the Golden Ball Tavern Museum in Weston, talks with Nichole about their new exhibit focusing on colonial espionage and sheds light into the life of a prominent Loyalist.This segment is the sixth interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.

Do you know how much energy you're really using when you're generating those cute videos and photos on AI platforms like ChatGPT, Copilot or Gemini? It's likely a lot more than you think. With so many people utilizing these platforms, entering all kinds of prompts, it's very quickly starting to put stress on our power grid. Matthew Carrara of Doble Engineering in Marlborough talks with Nichole about what's really happening behind the scenes, and what needs to be done to ensure our infrastructure is able to keep up.

A few months back, Sasha Purpura from Daily Table in Boston joined the show to talk about the non-profit grocery store's mission: team up with local suppliers and farmers to ensure everyone has access to low-cost, healthy food. Some surprising news has developed: the board of Daily Table announced recently it was closing down all operations within a matter of days, a move that shocked advocates, community leaders, and residents. Sasha returns to the show to talk about what happened and share resources for those who are food insecure in Massachusetts.

The weather is warmer, the pollen is flying, trees are blooming... it's the perfect time to get out and explore all that New England's outdoors has to offer! If you're looking for a new hike to try, or a new restaurant to check out when you're done getting your wilderness fix, Marc Hurwitz can help. He's the man behind Boston's Hidden Restaurants and Boston Restaurant Talk, but he also leads hikes for the Appalachian Mountain Club throughout New England. Marc returns to the show to share some of his favorite spots and provide an update on the local restaurant industry.

Did you get your REAL ID yet? Earlier this week, the law requiring you to have one to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings kicked in, and it's caused a bit of confusion for some who haven't been able to get one. Lines have been long at the RMV and appointments are tough to find. What happens if you need to travel and you don't have your updated ID? Dan Velez, spokesman for TSA New England, answers your questions about the ID's and the new regulations.

As health care advances, our medical devices have to evolve to keep up, which means they have to be connected to networks and the wider internet in ways they never were before. Unfortunately, that also means they're prime targets for hackers who want to steal your information and cause chaos. The recent "Device Talks Boston" conference focused, in part, on how the industry needs to catch up and put stronger security in place for our medical devices. Trevor Slattery, Chief Technology Officer at Blue Goat Cyber in Scottsdale, Arizona attended the conference, and stepped away to talk with Nichole about solutions for this problem.

This warmer weather is the perfect time to dust off the bike and hit the road for a good cause. Bike MS is holding its annual "Cape Cod Getaway" next month to raise money for the National MS Society, which works each and every day to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. The Getaway is a two-day affair, and you won't even have to rent a vacation house! Jennifer Dowdy, the Development Director of Bike MS, and Liam Kennedy, captain of Liam's Lucky Charms, join Nichole to talk about it.