Vermont Viewpoint

Melinda White and Dawn Tatro - talk about the 5th Annual Substance Use Addiction SummitFriday July 31, Champlain Valley Exposition10:00-4:00Montpelier City Council member Pelin Kohn is Running for the Washington-4 District House seat in Montpelier;Wendy Steager Garden Club PresidentCaroline Castaldo, of Gardens of Waterbury and Across the River, presented by A River Runs Through It (ARRTI) Garden Club Private self-guided toursthis Sunday, July 26 • 10 AM - 4 PM

Vermont Viewpoint originally broadcast Friday, July 17, 2026

"The irreverent Bob Stannard joins David for 2 hours of entertaining banter, music, political moments, poignant memories, and teaching his grandson to fish. It'll make you smile."

Elizabeth Brown & Paul Craney with the Fiscal Alliance Foundation discuss the announcement of their expansion into Vermont, why VT is falling further behind, the affordability issues impacting the Green Mountain State, and solutions to VT's problems.John Goodnight updates listeners on the restart of hostilities between the US & Iran, why the MOU failed, and the path to peace going forward.Justin Ouellet, musical artist and teacher, discusses his upcoming shows in Vermont, his music background, his passion for performing, his musical style, and how listeners can follow his work.Dave Soulia from FYIVT.com discusses his recent article titled, “VT: Can't afford to live here - Can't afford to leave” and what we can do to turn around the out migration, especially with young Vermonters, that is setting the state on a backwards path.

Host Paul Dame discusses the increasing role of women in the Vermont Republican Party and the growth of the VT Federation of Republican Women.Rep. Pattie McCoy (R-Poultney)Andrea Treadway, the Chair of Orwell SelectboardStephanie Mack, VFRW candidate in Essexand Stacey Malloy, VFRW President

Pam MacKenzie namedNew President of Campaign for VermontCampaign for Vermont is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to the vision of a more prosperous Vermont. Their mission is to advocate for public policy changes by reconnecting middle-class Vermonters to their government. Joined by Ben Kinsley Executive director of CFVHayden Dublois is the Data and Analytics Director for the Foundation for Government Accountability. Today to discuss Healthcare, after GOVERNOR PHIL SCOTT SIGNED A HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE ORDER TO EXPAND INSURANCE CHOICES AND LOWER COSTS Musicians Christine Lynch Malcolm and Marc Edwards, AT the Highland Center for the ArtsSaturday, July 18, 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.In this 250th Anniversary of our Declaration of Independence it is fitting to celebrate the American folk tradition of songs of “resistance, solidarity and hope.”The Highland Center for the Arts is glad to welcome Patti Casey, Jess O'Brien, Will & Dan Lindner, Christine Malcolm, Don Houghton, Roy MacNeil, Krishna Guthrie and other Vermont artists who will be joining them performing songs from the canon of American folk as well as some of their own originals.

July 9, 2026 - David Zuckerman talks with Chittenden County State's Attorney Sarah George, and Chittenden County State Senator Thomas Chittenden.

John Reynolds, State Director with NFIB, compares New Hampshire to Vermont and informs listeners why the NH Advantage has been so successful, how it has positively impacted the average Granite Stater, how VT's strategy has failed by comparison, and why a similar model in the Green Mountain State would benefit Vermonters.Nick Murray with Lead Maine updates listeners about new controversies in the race for US Senate in Maine, whether a new candidate will replace Graham Platner, the process to do so, and the path forward for Maine Democrats.Chris Maidment rejoins the show to talk about his trip to Washington D.C. over the weekend to celebrate America 250, the festivities, and why it was worth the trouble of security and travel.Lauren Stewart, Senior Federal Affairs Liaison with Americans for Prosperity, discusses the one year anniversary of the passage of the Working Families Tax Cut, how it is benefiting the American people, misconceptions about what the bill did, and the positive impact it will continue to have in the coming years.

St. Albans Rep. Joe Luneau (R-Franklin-3) joins Paul to talk about the latest Legislative Session, mid-term elections, and major issues facing Vermonters.And Historian Tom Hughes talks about U,S. History and Vermont's response to the 250th celebration in Vermont and Washington D.C.

Vermont National GuardJoseph E. Brooks State Public Affairs Officer - on Communications between the VNG and the Public.Westford Provisions - Owner Kim HarrisWestford Provisions opened in June 2025 in the heart of Westford Village and has since grown into a market, deli, coffee bar and ice cream shop serving residents and visitors throughout the region. Under one roof, visitors will find a full-service deli, Ruby's Ice Cream, Black Orchid Coffee and a retail market stocked with Vermont-made products alongside specialty foods and gifts from around the world.

Amy Brewer (MPH, CHES, Health Educator with the Franklin Grand Isle Tobacco Prevention Coalition) On July 1st, Vermont's new youth tobacco prevention law (S.198) took effect.(Act 148). An act relating to the regulation of tobacco products and tobacco substitutes.Elliott Greenblott -- AARP Fraud watch has the best advice to avoid getting scammedand Fran Rowell, of the Craftsbury Players, celebrating their 60th anniversaryFounded in 1966, the CCP is a group of world-class musicians who perform both masterworks and lesser known chamber music gems every summer. Concerts feature ever-changing ensemble configurations.

Host David ZuckermanOriginally Broadcast 7-2-2026Part 1- Amanda Gustin, Director of Collections and Access at the Vermont Historical Society, joins David. They will discuss the exciting 50/250 book and exhibition that explores Vermont's unique history and leadership since the founding of the US 250 years ago. The exhibit opens Friday, July 3, 2026Part 2- Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak joins David to update listeners on the Queen City's summer momentum, the opening of the Champlain Parkway and what's ahead for local infrastructure improvements.

Lt Governor John Rodgers joins the show to discuss America turning 250, how far we have come as a nation, how there is still work to do to live up to the intent of the declaration, VT's pivotal role in American independence, and more.AJ Kierstead, host of the New England Take Podcast, breaks down the panic over high temperatures in Europe, why they blame the USA, A250 Celebrations across New England, and an update to the US Senate race in NH.Mike Sylvester with Americans for Prosperity joins live from the Great American Fair in DC, the significance of the 250th anniversary, what this anniversary means to him as a recent citizen, and other ways people can celebrate in the Nation's Capitol this weekend.Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, updates listeners about Massachusetts ballot questions on rent control and tax reductions failing to make the November ballot, Boston becoming a favorite of visiting World Cup fans, the suspension of unnecessary regulations that have enabled more freedom and fun in Boston for visiting fans.

First hour: Addison County Republican State Senator Steven Heffernan.Second hour: Representative Tom Charleton (R-Windsor, Windham) in the towns of Athens, Chester, Grafton, and Windham

Vermont National GuardJoseph E. Brooks State Public Affairs Officer - on Communications between the VNG and the Public.Westford Provisions - Owner Kim HarrisWestford Provisions opened in June 2025 in the heart of Westford Village and has since grown into a market, deli, coffee bar and ice cream shop serving residents and visitors throughout the region. Under one roof, visitors will find a full-service deli, Ruby's Ice Cream, Black Orchid Coffee and a retail market stocked with Vermont-made products alongside specialty foods and gifts from around the world.

Guests:May Hanlon, Executive Director of the Vermont Democratic PartyRep. Kathleen James (D-Manchester)Aly Richards, Democratic candidate for Governor Origionallyt broadcast: Friday, June 26, 2026Host Lachlan Francis

Originally broadcast June 25, 2026First, I will talk with Representative John O'Brien about rural economic survival and shifting our education funding away from property taxes. Then, Senators Martine Gulick and Tanya Vyhovsky join me to tackle healthcare, housing, and what really happens when lawmakers buck the party system.

Candidate Series: Mark Coester joins the show to discuss his race for Congress, the issues facing Vermonters, his plans to address affordability, and his priorities if electedHon. Timothy Egan, Executive Director of Vermont NORML, updates listeners about changes in Vermont's cannabis laws, what it means for the industry, and what more could be doneJohn Goodnight rejoins the show to update listeners about the conflict with Iran, the MOU signed last week, who gains the most from the deal, whether peace will prevail, and the path forward

Lowell Republican State Representative Mark Higley talks with Paul about Act 181 and the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, and his recent trip to Taiwan;and Barre City Republican Representative Michael Boutin talks about School Boards, and Education issues including school consolidation.

Host Lachlan Francis interviewsConor Casey chairs Vermont's Irish American Legislative Caucus and thenDr Kelli Perkins - the Human Resources and Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Director at Vital Communities

Host David Zuckerman interviews two Democratic candidates running for the Vermont State Senate. Joanna Grossman (Chittenden Southeast) discusses her opposition to forced school consolidations, and regional government reform. Then, Representative Monique Priestley (Orange County) breaks down the "Corporate Power Reset" bill (H.793), big-tech consumer data privacy, and the economic impact of Act 250 modernization on rural towns. Originally broadcast live June 18, 2026, on WDEV. Stream at wdevradio.com.

Gerald Malloy, Candidate for US Congress, discusses his race for Congress, top issues impacting Vermonters, how Congress could help Vermont, and his message for Vermont VotersJames Czerniawski, Head of Emerging Technology Policy at the Consumer Choice Center, updates listeners about the United Kingdom's move to ban social media for minors, the potential unseen consequences, and the UK's move towards an Orwellian state.Paul Dame, Chair of the Vermont Republican Party, joins the show to talk about the VT GOP's effectiveness even though they are still in the minority and why Vermonters should consider GOP candidates in the midterms.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint with Brad Ferland was aired on 06/15/2026.

Freshman Representative Rob North (R-Ferrisburgh) shares his experience on the House Environment Committee anbd Act 181.Swanton Republican Representative Matt Walker (R-Swanton) talks about changes to this year's Transportation Budget.

Originally broadcast Friday, June 12, 2026Lachlan's guest is VT Lt Governor candidate Esther Charlestin

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