The Rochester Post Podcast

In this episode, Matt talks with Kay Wright, Community Development Coordinator for the City of Rochester. They discuss the role of the Community Development Division within the Economic Development Department and highlight current initiatives, including updates to the CDBG Annual Action Plan. Learn how these efforts support local needs and how residents can get involved.

During the City Council Workshop on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Mayor Paul Callaghan welcomed Carlton Cooper of the Rochester Veterans Council to speak about the upcoming Memorial Day activities.

In this episode, Rochester historian Patrick Connelly returns to discuss his research and to promote an upcoming presentation on Friday, May 16, at 6:00 p.m. at the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center. The public is encouraged to attend. Visit www.rnhcc.com to learn more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Frisbie Memorial Hospital CEO Tom Bowden as he approaches his first 100 days on the job. They reflect on the past five years since HCA Healthcare acquired Frisbie, highlighting key milestones and successes. Tom shares his vision for the hospital's future, the deepening ties between HCA and the Rochester community, and exciting updates on services like cardiology, inpatient rehab, total joint replacement, and the reopened sleep lab. They also touch on the importance of stroke and mental health awareness, and what leadership and community involvement mean to Tom as he settles into his new role.

On April 15, Rochester City Manager Katie Ambrose presented the proposed operating and capital budgets for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 at the City Council workshop meeting. The proposed budget, inclusive of City, County, and School appropriations, comes in $337,280 below the tax cap and reflects a continued commitment to strong fiscal health. The proposed budget is based on the allowable FY 2026 tax effort of $79,552,624, an increase of $3,447,725 (4.5%) over FY 2025, calculated per City Charter requirements by applying 2.95% CPI and 1.58% Net New Construction to the FY 2025 tax effort of $76,104,899.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Rad Nichols, Executive Director of COAST Bus, and Vanessa Polychronis, Community & Employee Relations Manager, to explore the vital work COAST does as a nonprofit public transit provider. They discuss the diverse range of services COAST offers, the exciting plans behind their ongoing capital campaign for a new facility, and how you can get involved, whether you're new to public transit or a seasoned rider. Tune in to learn how COAST is driving community connection and how you can support their mission.

In this episode, Matt talks to Laura Ring, President of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, to reflect on her 35-year journey with the Chamber and how Rochester's business community has evolved over the decades. Laura also shares information on the Chamber's current initiatives, upcoming events, and ways local businesses can get involved. To learn more about the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, visit www.rochesternh.org.

In this special episode, listen to audio from the March 18 City Council meeting, where Mayor Callaghan introduces Thomas Bowden, the newly appointed CEO of Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Bowden stepped into the role in February 2025, bringing extensive leadership experience from his time at Steward Healthcare. Most recently, he served as president of Rockledge Regional Medical Center in Florida, where he previously held key leadership roles, including chief administrative officer and chief operating officer.

In this episode, Matt welcomes SHARE Fund chairman Jerry Rainville, who introduces LeeAnn Bruneau as the organization's new executive director. LeeAnn first joined SHARE Fund as a volunteer and later became Assistant Director under Skip Smith, who is now stepping into a new role as pastor of the Congregational Church in York, Maine. LeeAnn is eager to lead the organization and help people in need.

In this episode, Matt talks to Library Director Marie Lejeune and Patron Services Supervisor Katherine Parker from the Rochester Public Library about potential funding changes to IMLS and their impact on various services— including audiobooks, a service that is widely used in Rochester. In 2024 alone, 895 users accessed audiobooks, totaling nearly 13,000 checkouts. With digital resources like eBooks (8,202 checkouts) and magazines (2,502 checkouts) also in high demand, the conversation explores how potential funding changes could affect access to vital library services.

In this episode, Matt talks with Jerry Rainville and Ashley Truong about the SHARE Fund's upcoming charity hockey game featuring the Bruins Alumni Association. The game takes place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the Rochester Arena, where the SHARE Fund Marvels will take the ice against former Bruins players for an afternoon of fun and fundraising. Jerry and Ashley also share updates on the organization's work, ways to get involved, and details on how attendees can support the cause through raffles, a silent auction, and food donations at the event.

On Tuesday, October 15, Interim Assessor Mary Beth Walker provided an update on the 2024 City-wide Revaluation during the City Council Workshop. Walker highlighted the ongoing work to ensure property assessments are adjusted to reflect the rising real estate market, aiming to bring assessments close to 100% of full, fair market value. She also emphasized that while property values are expected to increase, this does not necessarily mean a corresponding increase in property taxes.

In this episode, Matt sits down with author, researcher, and Rochester historian Patrick O. Connelly to delve into the rich history of Rochester, New Hampshire, from its early days as a frontier territory to its emergence as a thriving township. Connelly shares insights from his books, Rochester, New Hampshire: Territory to Township and Rochester, N.H.: In Their Own Words, which span the years 1620-1799.

In this episode, Matt talks to Tax Collector Rachel Laughner to explore the tax deeding process in the City of Rochester. They break down what happens when property taxes go unpaid, starting with tax liens and leading up to a property being taken by the City through a tax deed. Rachel explains the step-by-step process, from receiving tax bills to the final notice of impending tax deed, and offers practical advice on how to avoid losing your property.

In this episode, Matt interviews popular scenic photographer John Gisis, a Rochester native who began drone photography as a hobby and has since turned it into much more. John's beautiful aerial shots have been included in publications and other various initiatives across New Hampshire. He also releases an annual calendar, with a portion of the proceeds supporting local charities.

In this episode, Matt talks to Clinical Coordinator Ramsay Dean about Frisbie's Partial Hospitalization Program, the stress and anxiety that often accompany the back-to-school season, and other resources for people seeking help for stress, anxiety, depression, and more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Katherine Michaud MS, OTR/L, Mental Health & Matter of Balance Coordinator, Cornerstone VNA, about her involvement with Cornerstone VNA, occupational therapy, and community mental health for people of all ages. Katherine also talks about her involvement with the Rochester Mental Health Alliance and the events and initiatives the group organizes. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Anthony Ejarque, Executive Director of the Rochester Opera House, about their hit musical revival of Fiddler on the Roof, which concludes its run on July 27. Anthony also teases upcoming productions of Beauty and the Beast, The Wizard of Oz, PorchFest 2024, and much more. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Natasha Saiyed MD about Frisbie's Wound Center, treating and preventing wounds, the most frequently seen patients, and the benefits of hyperbaric chamber treatment.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine discuss going "fine free" for overdue library materials. They also chat about the Summer Reading Program for participants of all ages.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine discuss what they're reading.

In this episode, Matt interviews Annie Azarloza, Rochester's upcoming Superintendent of Schools. They discuss her 100-Day Plan, the Listening and Learning Tour, and the significance of public and student engagement. Annie also shares insights on the post-COVID-19 landscape for students, along with her personal interests and experiences relocating to Rochester.

In this episode, Matt talks to Mark Sullivan, Director of Finance for the City of Rochester, about the upcoming retail trash bag program for overflow trash. Expected to begin mid-summer 2024, the new bags will be required for trash that does not fit in the Waste Management-issued residential toters. Replacing the current sticker program, the bags will cost $1.75 each and the City is working with local grocery stores to carry them in packs of 5.

In this episode, Matt welcomes back SHARE Fund chairman Jerry Rainville to discuss implementing new changes to the organization, the shopper's choice program, and the upcoming Putt-4-Hunger event on Saturday, June 1. Visit www.sharefund.org to learn more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Jody Walker, Technical Services Librarian, about Koha, the new open-source library system that was recently implemented. They also chat about making it easier to obtain a library card, the possibility of going “fine free”, and the ongoing expansion of digital offerings. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Chief Nursing Officer Megan Gray about strokes. Listeners will learn about recognizing the warning signs of strokes, the significance of swift action, and how to respond in the event of a stroke.

In this episode, Matt talks to Ellen Carlson from the New Hampshire Fiddle Ensemble about the history of the organization, its diverse membership, and their upcoming show at the Rochester Opera House on May 3, 2024. Ellen also shares her earliest memories of making music and discusses the artists that influenced her most. To learn more about the NH Fiddle Ensemble, visit www.nhfiddleensemble.org.

In this episode, Matt talks to three Spaulding High School Seniors who started the Compassion Closet, an initiative to provide students in need with clothing, socks and underwear, hygiene products, and more. The Compassion Closet is a private space in the High School that allows students to visit anonymously and get the things they need without shame.

In this episode, Matt talks to Bob and Lisa Griffin, members of the Rochester Historical Society and Museum, located on Hanson Street. Bob and Lisa chat about the museum and its collection, upcoming programs, and the Rochester NH History Podcast.

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Ken Maynard from Frisbie Memorial Hospital about neurosurgery, surgical and technological advancements, and other common surgeries such as fusions and general decompressions. Maynard also talks about how providers are responding to common issues like back pain, neck pain, and much more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine update listeners on their New Year's resolutions. They also talk about their favorite (and not-so-favorite) romance novels.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Amy Lemelin about the Teen Room at the Rochester Public Library. The Teen Room has experienced major upgrades over the past year or so, including a larger space with new furniture, fresh paint, fun and engaging programming, art from the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, and much more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Michael Scala, Economic Development Director for the City of Rochester, about downtown housing and commercial development.

In this episode, Matt talks to Director of Recreation Lauren Krans about the Lilac Family Fun Festival, Summer Camp, Senior Activity Center, Public Pools, and much more. Visit rec.rochesternh.gov to see a list of upcoming programs and events. 

In this episode, Matt talks to licensed social worker and clinical coordinator Ramsey Dean about the Partial Hospitalization Program at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Ramsey is also a native of Rochester and a 2009 Spaulding High School graduate. 

Celebrate the New Year with Off The Shelf! In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about the new year, trying new things, annual resolutions, and much more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about their favorite Christmas movies, whether or not you can read a book before gifting it to someone else, Christmas Carol at the Rochester Opera House, Icelandic holiday traditions, and much more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Christopher Lawson (Frisbie Memorial Hospital) about interventional cardiology, heart disease, and identifiable signs and symptoms worth noting. Dr. Lawson also provides tips and tricks for keeping your heart healthy so you can live a long life.

In this episode, we play the audio from the Mayoral and City Council Candidate Forum that occurred on October 30th. Hosted by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, the forum provided an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves, discuss their positions on the issues, and answer questions from the public. We encourage you to listen so you can make an informed decision when participating in the Municipal Election. If you haven't already, make a plan to VOTE on November 7th. Visit www.rochesternh.gov/vote to learn more.

In this episode, we play the audio from the School Board Candidate Forum that occurred on October 25th. Hosted by Rochester Listens, the forum provided an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves, discuss their positions on the issues, and answer questions from the public. We encourage you to listen so you can make an informed decision when participating in the Municipal Election. If you haven't already, make a plan to VOTE on November 7th. Visit www.rochesternh.gov/vote to learn more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine reunite after a brief hiatus to talk about their favorite books and movies that involve music in one way or another. Does Katherine mention Love Boat again? You'll have to listen to find out. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Lisa Gautreau, president of Granite State Choral Society. GSCS is a nonprofit organization that has shared its joy of singing and love of music with friends and neighbors since 1974. Its members come from every walk of life with a wide variety of backgrounds and include experienced singers and musicians to novices who are just discovering the joys of choral singing.

In this episode, Matt talks to Amy Lester, Director of Volunteer Services at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Amy talks about her role, the wide variety of volunteer opportunities available at the hospital, and the impact this kind of volunteerism has on people of all ages and abilities. Amy also talks about what she thinks the community should know about Frisbie and the programs she's managing.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine chat about the success of the Summer Reading programs; the refreshed Teen Room and new programming for teens; the reorganization of books, media, and furniture around the building; and new art from the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts. Have no fear, there's at least one 'Love Boat' reference in the episode.

In this episode, Matt talks to the organizers of the Lila Dance Festival happening on Saturday, August 26 at the Rochester Common. Visit www.liladancefestival.com to learn more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine chat with Katie Ambrose about her career before becoming Rochester's new City Manager, her background in science, and what she's been reading.

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Benedetto, Chief of Surgery of the Bariatric Clinic, about surgical and non-surgical weight loss options available to patients at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Dr. Benedetto discusses qualifying for surgery, recovery time, and maintaining long-term weight loss. He also talks about why he enjoys the work he does every day.

In this episode, Matt talks to Jackie Firmin (NH ECI Policy & Advocacy Director and Cora-Lynn Hoppe (Executive Director, Rochester Childcare Center) about regional childcare deserts, long waiting lists to enroll, rising costs, underpaid teachers and providers, and what childcare advocates are doing around the state to address the problems.

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Khushboo Munot, from Frisbie Memorial Hospital, about gastroenterology and what types of procedures they perform, important things they want patients and future patients to know (ie screenings), what makes Frisbie different from some of the larger hospitals, and what brought Munot to Frisbie.

In this episode, Matt talks to Jackie Fitzpatrick who was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. Jackie is involved with several charitable initiatives and community groups, including the Rochester Rotary Club and End 68 Hours of Hunger.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine recommend several books, movies, and audiobooks that are more under the radar, most of which are readily available at the Rochester Public Library or through one of the free online services.