Vermont Viewpoint

Sen. Andrew Perchlik and then Vermont's Healthcare changes with Owen Foster of the Green Mountain Care BoardHost David Zuckerman talks with State Senator Andrew Perchlik to provide a comprehensive look at the new Laws impacting Vermonters; the state budget, education funding reforms, infrastructure, energy and property taxes. In the second half, Green Mountain Care Board Chair Owen Foster joins David to dig into Healthcare; hospitals, regulatory concerns, insurance costs, and access to care for Vermonters.

Paul Dame talks with Caledonia County Republican Leader Senator Scott Beck on Legislative results from the recently concluded session, and Republican prospects for the upcoming election.And Gavin Edwards, Vermont Coordinator of the American Great State Fair talks about preparations for the 4th of July celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Paul ends the show with listener phone calls.

Meghan Sullivan - Vice President of Government Affairs Vermont ChamberRecap of Legislative session from the chamber's perspective.What lies ahead?Meghan Sullivan -Experienced Business Liaison with a demonstrated history of working in the government relations industry. Strong operations professional skilled in Communications, Public Policy, Analytical Thinking, and Customer Service. Respected spokesperson able to communicate effectively with internal and external customers across a diverse portfolio of issues.Susan Sweetser- Ginny Sweetser raffle/fundraiserJune is PTSD Awareness month. We started a scholarship fund in Ginny's memory for veterans getting an advanced degree that will lead them to helping those with PTSD.Bob DegreeNew book launch The Planted Seed: A book of Hope.The new novella is a story of a mother and son that from the beginning had an unbreakable, supernatural bond that carried them throughout life, death, and a journey in the afterlife.

Originally broadcast June 5, 2026Guest: Washington County Senator Andy Perchlik

John Reynolds, State Director with NFIB, rejoins the show to grade the policies passed by the legislature now that session is over and how small businesses will be impactedMike Stenhouse, former Red Sox player and CEO of the RI Center for Freedom & Prosperity, updates listeners about the proposed RI budget, wealth taxes, and working together across New England to improve the economySarah Scott, State Director with Americans for Prosperity-New Hampshire, discusses Right to Try legislation for patients facing a terminal diagnosis, how NH is positioning to be a biotech hub, and the lasting legacy of former legislator Michael Yakubovich Nick Murray from Lead Maine informs listeners about the rising threat of facial recognition technologies being used by governments

First Hour -Senator Thomas ChittendenMatt Cota Meadowhill ConsultingLegislative adjournment recap Second Hour --Elliott GreenblottAARP Fraudwatch Violinist Justin OuelletLumo's experienceSt. Albans Concert review

5-28-2026 on Vermont Viewpoint, host David Zuckerman welcomes Margaret McLean and White River Valley SU Superintendent Jamie Kinnarney from the Vermont Rural School Community Alliance to discuss the current bill addressing education. Then, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Aly Richards joins the program to discuss why she wants to be Governor and to answer your questions about her positions on the issues Vermonters face.

Alison Despathy rejoins the show to break down the debate around the clean heat standard, the bait and switch solution from the Majority, and why Vermonters need to stay vigilant.John Vick, Executive Director for Concerned Veterans for America, discusses the importance of Memorial Day, supporting veterans, CVA's Vets on the Hill event in DC, and why more veterans need to speak up in the political process.AJ Kierstead, host of the New England Take Podcast, breaks down the recent electoral losses of incumbent federal elected officials and what it means for the culture of DC going forward.Clara Morrison, Executive Director for Right for Vermont Foundation, updates listeners on the legislature's solutions to education reform, childcare licensing, and why Vermonters demands have not been met by the majority.

Rob Roper talks with Laura Derrendinger (Vermont Coalition Independence, Reconnection & Liberation) about removing digital screens from schools, and increasing human connection.Then, Rob and Corinna Dodson discuss combatting antisemitism in schools.This Episode of the Vermont Viewpoint aired on 05/26/2026

David Zuckerman sits down with Democratic Lieutenant Governor candidate Ryan McLaren to discuss his newly unveiled municipal housing and education tax reform proposal. In the second hour, the conversation shifts to public discourse and media literacy with Michael Kane, Founder of American Civics Snapshots, and veteran Harwood Union educator Matt Henchen. They will discuss their work to help adults and youth push back against modern political tribalism in order to actually delve into real solution oriented discussion

Conal O'BrienNew book out- What Ever Happened to Anna Canneli. This is the 3rd in a series. Conal previously published books, Birth of an Angel and Death of Television.Brad and Conal will talk about Conal's new book, living in a small Vermont town after living in New York City and Los Angeles and the journey of life.10:00 to 10:30Danielle RobertsDanielle Roberts, Director of Community RelationsNorthwestern Counseling and Support ServicesAdult Mental Health First AidThursday May 28 and Friday May 294:00 to 7:00location, St. Albans City Hall Council Chamber11th Annual Autism Walk of Northwestern VermontSunday, May 31, 202612:30 PM-2:30 PM10:30 to 11:00Representative Ashley BartleyUpdates on Montpelier   

Vermont Viewpoint with Lachlan Francis for 5-15-26Guests: Bill Bright - Son of VTs first black woman legislator who had her portrait unveiled at the Vermont State House last weekVT Based journalist/author Jasper Craven on his upcoming book as well as his reporting on Pete Hegseth & the Defense Department

David Zuckerman hosts State Representative Leanne Harple to discuss the controversial plans for school mergers and closures and their impact on rural Vermont communities. Then, Rachel Nevitt joins the show to provide a masterclass on tick-borne illnesses, offering new research on symptoms and advice on how to advocate for yourself at the doctor's office

Kate Baker Demers, Executive Director for the Children's Scholarship Fund, talks about New York opting into the federal tax credit scholarship program, why Vermont should do the same, and how New Hampshire's education freedom programs workRachel Burgin, Deputy Regional Director with Americans for Prosperity, breaks down the progressive attempt to roll back homeschool rights and the need for accountability for elected officials that have failed to deliver on Vermonters' biggest concernsDave Soulia with FYIVT.com dives into the true cost of Act 250, what has Vermont missed out on due to high regulatory costs, and what can be done to change courseand John Goodnight analyzes the historic local election results in the United Kingdom and why it should serve as a warning to “net zero” politicians across the globe

Ben Kinsley is the Executive Director of Campaign for VermontKevin Ellis is the author of the Conflict of Interest blog, and former Friday host of Vermont Viewpoint on WDEV.

Jason Maulucci Director of Policy Development and Legislative Affairs for Governor Phil Scottdiscusses Vermont Education Legislation, Housing, and, affordability in Vermont.Jason also updates on University of Vermont (UVM) commitment to the Tarrant Center project Amy BrewerHealth Educator, Coordinator of the Franklin-Grand Isle Tobacco Prevention Coalitiontobacco; taxation; tobacco products; tobacco substitutes; Department 6 of Liquor and Lottery; Department of Taxesand Chad Hewitt and Greg HookerThe Vermont Mountaineers need some host families for players during the summer season starting next month, Chad Hewitt and Greg Hooker talk about the Vermont Mountaineers and the housing need. 

Lachlan opens with former Senate President Pro Tem Tim Ashe.Then Lachlan talks with Kevin Ellis, host of the Conflict of Interest podcast, and former host of Vermont Viewpoint on WDEV

David Zuckerman hosts Jean Hamilton and Ornella Matta-Figueroa to discuss land equity, followed by Prof. Stephanie Seguino and Pat Autilio on the data and impacts of police profiling./this Episode of the Vermont Viewpoint aired on 05/07/2026

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 05/06/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 05/05/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 05/04/2026

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/30/2026. Host David Zuckerman previews Vermont's May Day 2026 collective actions. The show features Grant Orenstein and Paul Burns on the VPIRG fundraiser contra dance, Blogger John Walters on political headlines, and gubernatorial candidate Amanda Janoo with her ideas for Vermont

Ilana Blumsack, Economic Policy Analyst with Americans for Prosperity, discusses solutions to funding local government without property tax increases.Paul Craney, Executive Director with the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, breaks down Mayor Wu's Climate Initiative, congestion taxes, and what this will lead to for the City of Boston.Jon DiPietro with Liberty Digital informs listeners about the attempted shooting at the White House Correspondent's Dinner and why every event results in accusations of conspiracy.Bryce Chinault, State Affairs with the Abundance Institute, rejoins the show to discuss Gov Mills' veto of a data center moratorium in Maine, misconceptions about data centers, and why states should be welcoming to this industry of the future.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/9/2026. Ilana Blumsack, Economic Policy Analyst with Americans for Prosperity, discusses solutions to funding local government without property tax increases. Next, Paul Craney, Executive Director with the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, breaks down Mayor Wu's Climate Initiative, congestion taxes, and what this will lead to for the City of Boston. Jon DiPietro with Liberty Digital informs listeners about the attempted shooting at the White House Correspondent's Dinner and why every event results in accusations of conspiracy. Bryce Chinault, State Affairs with the Abundance Institute, rejoins the show to discuss Gov Mills' veto of a data center moratorium in Maine, misconceptions about data centers, and why states should be welcoming to this industry of the future.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/28/2026.

Host Brad Ferland 9:00 to 10:00U.S. ARMY COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR RAYMOND MYERSSenior Enlisted LeaderCSM Raymond J. Myers enlisted into the Vermont Army National Guard on 11 July 1983. He entered Basic Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. CSM Myers' assignment history include Cannon Crewman and promoting to 1SG in C Battery 1/86 Field Artillery Burlington, Vermont (1983-2004), 1SG Headquarters 1/86 FA Williston Vermont (2004-2007), 1SG HHC 86th IBCT to include a Deployment to Afghanistan (2009-2013), CSM 86th Troop Command (2014-2019), CSM Garrison Support Command (2019-2022), Vermont Army National Guard CSM (2022- Current). 10:00 to 10:30Christine.WernekeUVM Health - Home Health & HospiceUVM Health - Home Health & Hospice is a nonprofit organization providing home-based nursing, rehabilitation, hospice, and family care services throughout Chittenden and Grand Isle counties. They serve over 5,000 individuals annually, offering 24/7 care for chronic conditions, post-surgical recovery, palliative care, and end-of-life care.  10:30 to 11:00Matt Cota - Meadow Hill Consulting Montpelier updates

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/23/2026. This Week on WDEV, Dr. Steven Schlozman explores how the "Health Humanities" and the psychology of horror can dismantle mental health stigma and address the digital stressors impacting Vermont's youth. At 10:00 AM, Melissa Lavallee, Matt Gile, and Wren Zegans discuss the "May Day Strong" movement and the vital role of labor solidarity in supporting our healthcare and education systems. The program highlights the May 1st march in Williston, where workers will unite to demand Milk with Dignity from Hannaford and resist the displacement of migrants.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/22/2026.

Matt Cota is with Meadow Hill Consulting. He discusses Act 181, and fuel, carbon, and mileage tax schemes in Montpelier.And H. Brooke Paige is running as a Republican for Secretary of State, Treasurer, Attorney General, and Auditor of Accounts.

Brett is the author of Unstitched and Hidden View.She is a regular contributor and associate editor to the Vermont Almanac.Her new book, Call It Madness, is coming out in June.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/17/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/16/2026.

Rob opens with Paul Dame, chair of the Vermont Republican Party.Then Javan Sears, student at the University of Vermont, who is running for the Vermont Senate in Chittenden County.

9:00 to 9:30Matt Cota Meadow Hill ConsultingMontpelier Legislative Updates9:30 to 10:15Alliance of Healthcare Sharing MinistriesRep. Randy Hultgren, Executive Director, Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries H.102 (2025), a sweeping bill that would require faith-based Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs) operating in Vermont to adhere to burdensome reporting measures as if they were insurance companies.10:15 to 11:00Kathy MatteaKathleen Alice Mattea (born June 21, 1959) is an American country music and bluegrass singer. Active since 1984 as a recording artist, she has charted more than 30 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including four that reached No. 1: "Goin' Gone", "Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses", "Come from the Heart", and "Burnin' Old Memories", plus 12 more that charted within the top ten. She has released 14 studio albums, two Christmas albums, and one greatest hits album.Barre Opera HouseDate: Friday Apr 17, 2026

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/10/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/09/2026.David Zuckerman explores the push for restorative justice with the ACLU of Vermont, followed by a guide to lowering your energy bills with experts from the LEAP Energy Fair. 

Jason Sorens, Senior Research Fellow with AIER, updates listeners on tariffs a year after President Trump's announcement of “Liberation Day” and what effect they are having on America's economyDave Soulia from FYIVT.com breaks down America's return to the moon after a 50-year hiatus and how the Atremis mission puts minor policy disagreements in perspectiveSarah Scott, Deputy State Director with Americans for Prosperity New Hampshire, talks about the New Hampshire race for the US Senate, the 254th anniversary of the Pine Tree Riot, and legislative updates in the Granite StateBryce Chinault, State Government Affairs with the Abundance Institute, discusses the 6 New England governors embracing nuclear energy, how New England can gradually expand, what policy changes are needed for expanded nuclear to happen, and examples from elsewhere for New England to look at as the model

Michael Boutin is a Republican member of the Vermont House from the Washington-3 District.Kurt Wright is a former Burlington City Council member and Burlington business owner, and host of the Morning Show on WVMT radio in Burlington.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/06/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/03/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 04/02/2026. This week, we dive into the two biggest debates in the Statehouse. First up is Paul Cillo on breaking the education funding logjam to protect small schools and taxpayers, and a deep dive into Act 181's land use regulations with Jamey Fidel, Sam Lincoln, and Neil Ryan.

Nick Murray with Lead Maine breaks down new polling from the US Senate Race in Maine and what to watch for in the final weeks before primary day in one of the most important races nationally for the midterms.Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, informs listeners about a new strategy in the Commonwealth to address sky high taxes, the impact of Massachusetts' wealth tax on the economy, and outmigration issues.Planet Hank from PlanetHank.com joins the show to discuss the rally to stop Act 181, how more Vermonters can have a voice in the political process to improve affordability, and how he is leveraging his digital media audience to hold elected officials accountable.

Rob takes phone calls in the first hour about policies, issues and activities at the Vermont Statehouse.Then Mary Beerworth of Vermont Right to Life talks about state-sponsored assisted suicide, abortion, and other life-and-death issues in Vermont and around the country.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 03/30/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 03/26/2026. On this episode of VT Viewpoint, Host David Zuckerman is joined by: Rep. Leanne Harple on education reform and tax savings, the Bob Dylan impersonation fundraiser for the Barre Peoples clinic with Dan Barlow and Bronwyn Fryer, and the Spectrum Sleep Out with Mark Redmond. 

Representative Mike Tagliavia is a Republican House member representing the towns of Orange, Washington, Corinth, and Vershire. Mike and Rob talk about issues at the State House, including the growing opposition to Act 181, and the demonstration at the State House today where attendees will advocate for its repeal;and Renee McGuinness, Vermont Family Alliance Policy Analyst, on bills affecting Family Policies and Mental Health Issues in the State.

Meghan Sullivan - Vermont Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Public Affairs,Matt Cota - with Meadow Hill Consulting, on the latest from the Vermont State Houseand Bluegrass and Banjo Performer Max Wareham, who has a show coming up this Saturday at Zenbarn in Waterbury, VT.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 03/19/2026. This week on Vermont Viewpoint with David Zuckerman four segments— ICE Out Vermont on holding federal agents accountable to the Constitution. The No Kings Day 3 Franklin County team discussing statewide events on the 28th of March. Ben Cohen fighting to take back Ben & Jerry's. And Vermont-NEA's Don Tinney on addressing property tax reform and forced school consolidation impacts.

AJ Kierstead, host of the New England Take Podcast, rejoins the show to discuss the ongoing government shutdown for DHS, the Iran Conflict, and New Hampshire denying a tax increaseVermont State Representative Gina Galfetti updates listeners about legislative session, affordability efforts, and housing changesEd Tarnowski from Ed Choice breaks down the federal school choice tax credit program and why Vermont should opt-inIlana Blumsack from Americans for Prosperity talks about the pros and cons of the recent housing reform efforts in Congress

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 03/17/2026.

As of March, Major General Gregory Knight is the retiring Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, after serving for seven years. He was succeeded by Maj. Gen. Henry “Hank” Harder Jr., following a change of command ceremony this month. He was named the Vermont Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Citizen of the Year, and Upon his retirement, he has not ruled out a future in politics. Then, Rosanne Cash a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, author, and four-time Grammy winner celebrated as a literary Americana artist who transcends country-pop genre boundaries with Seth Soloway of Spruce Peak Arts, where Roseanne will be performing this Saturday Night.Spruce Peak ArtsMarch 21, 2026 7:00 PM