Vermont Viewpoint

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/25/2026.

Rob Roper welcomes in first Bob Hargraves, talking about nuclear power and policy, and the possibility of reviving the nuclear power industry in Vermont.Mill Moore, former executive director of Vermont Independent Schools Association, on a recent report on student outcomes in math and literacy.

Vermont Army National Guard Chaplain (Major) Eric Stuepfert currently serves as a Federal Technician as the state Chaplain for the Vermont National Guard and the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) Chaplain.  10:00 to 10:30 Seth Soloway Spruce Peak Arts Director on upcoming shows  10:30 to 11:00Anne Lamott & Neal AllenSpruce Peak Arts  March 28, 2026 7:00 PM  Anne Lamott writes and speaks about subjects that begin with capital letters: Alcoholism, Motherhood, Jesus. But armed with self-effacing humor –she is laugh-out-loud funny – and ruthless honesty, Lamott converts her subjects into enchantment.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/19/2026.

Retta Dunlap - President of EdWatch, on school choice and how it is under attack in Vermont,and "Planet Hank" Poitras, on his reporting of crime and politics in Brattleboro

Ellie Bryant holds B.A. and Master's in Education and Human Development degrees from George Washington University and Master's of Fine Arts in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts.ON SALE FEBRUARY 12, 2026The sequel to the bestseller, Sheltering Angel: A Novel Based on a True Story of the Titanic.After losing her husband Bradley in the Titanic disaster, Florence Cumings' heartache is far from over. Her teenage son Wells is killed in the WWI battle of Belleau Wood while defending France with the Allies. Two decades later, her second husband Chess dies of influenza shortly before her eldest son Jack succumbs to effects from injuries sustained in the Great War. Then, Andre Maquera West Street Digital Inc.Brad and Andre discuss winter in Vermont, Cabin Fever, music and joy, journey in life, beating the blues. Producer/Guitarist/Chief EngineerWest Street Digital is a full service recording studio in Fairfield, Vermont.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/12/2026. David Zuckerman discusses the fight for police reform and mental health de-escalation with Sean Garvey and Rep. Michelle Bos-Lun, followed by a deep dive into the evolution of Vermont's healthcare system with Gifford Health Care CEO Michael Costa. 

John McCormick joins the show to talk about the importance of checks in balances in Vermont government to address affordability and stop bad policies.Eric Brakey, Executive Director of the Free State Project, breaks down New Hampshire's efforts to gain territory from Maine, growing movements across the country of conservative leaning counties wanting to join neighboring states, and NH Liberty Forum in March.Timothy Egan with VT NORML updates listeners on the cannabis industry, their lobby day at the state house, and law changes across the country that could impact the VT industry.John Goodnight informs listeners about the recent election in Japan, the unpopularity of the ruling Labor party in the UK, and how top-down, big government solutions are driving populations across the globe to the right.

Matt Cota Meadowhill ConsultingLawmakers are considering a tiered spending cap as a way to rein in education costs. Lawmakers are also focusing on Vermont's Career Technical Education centers. Housing is also getting more attention.Vermont lawmakers continue to weigh proposals to eliminate or modify the state's vehicle inspection program. Gregory Tatro-Jenna's Promise, and Daniel Franklin, on Recovery Day- February 11th, in Montpelier, and Turning Towards the Light, A Healing Concert  February 15 | 3:30–5:30 PM | Jenna's House, JohnsonWe are honored to welcome back Danny Granstaff, a talented and accomplished musician.Then Senator Virginia “Ginny” Lyons with 25 Years in the State LegislatureSenator Lyons currently chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Welfare. 

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/06/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/05/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 02/04/2026.

First, Rob welcomes in Amy Hornblas, talking about children's safety.Representative Rob North (R) - Addison 3 - talking about environmental policies and taxes,and Nancy Gassett on election integrity.

9:00 to 10:00Adjutant General Race-Vermont Legislature. Deputy Adjutant General Henry “Hank” Harder and Col. Roger “Brent” Zeigler are running for the post Adjutant General candidates discuss why they want the job.10:00 to 10:30Brad and Producer Lee Kittell fill in for Elliott Greenblott on the AARP Fraudwatch 10:30 to 11:00Saint Albans Mayor Tim Smith -- Stepping down after 8 years serving as St. Alban's Mayor.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/29//26. Rep. Monique Priestley joins us to cover data privacy and key issues in Montpelier. Rev. Debbie Ingram discusses her “moral witness” trip to Minnesota, and Chris Worth from the VLGS Immigration Clinic explains the legal realities of immigration policy. Tune in and join the conversation.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/28/2026.

Caledonia County Republican Senator Scott Beck is first, talking with Rob about what bills are advancing through committees, issues surrounding education costs, property taxes, and the rising cost of government.Then Elizabeth Brown, a Statehouse observer who ran for Waterbury State Representative in 2024, talks about activity at the State House, and encourages more citizens to get involved in local government.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/26/26.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/23/25.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/22/2026. Caroline Sherman-Gordon joins David Zuckerman on WDEV to discuss the push for a "Right to Grow Food" following a landmark ruling on municipal farming regulations. Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak then breaks down her 2026 Housing Strategy and the "Tax Fairness" proposal heading to the Town Meeting Day ballot. The program concludes with a look at the Queen City's navigation of downtown construction and public safety.

John Goodnight rejoins the program to discuss the civil uprising in Iran and whether the regime is facing its last days. We also break down the aggressive moves by the Trump administration to acquire Greenland.Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, updates listeners about rising energy rates in Massachusetts and what lawmakers should be doing to address the issue.Molly Powell, Senior Policy Analyst with Americans for Prosperity, informs listeners about a new Vermont bill to address regulatory overreach.and Sofia Hamilton returns to the show to break down the new food pyramid guidelines and a new push to ban kratom products.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/21/2026. 

Rob first welcomes in Matt Cota, with Meadow Hill Consulting, talking about the issues around the Clean Heat Standard, which bills are proceeding in Montpelier, and the Governor's Budget Address later today.Then Ben Kinsley, of Campaign for Vermont, joins Rob to give his take on the Legislative Agenda for 2026, and Vermont's struggles with affordability.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/19/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/16/2026.

David Zuckerman hosts two timely conversations on Vermont Viewpoint. Rep. Emilee Krasnow joins to discuss housing, affordability, and the 2026 legislative session. Then, Cynthia Gardner Morse and Sonja Andrews break down the proposed closures of Doty Memorial and Calais Elementary ahead of the February 10 vote.This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/15/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/14/26.

Rob and Paul talk about issues with State Government, and bills being put forward during this legislative session at the State House, with listener phone calls.

Brad opens with a talk with Meadow Hill Consulting's Matt Cota on the first week of the Vermont Legislative Session and the Governor's State of the State Address.Then Representative Gina Galfetti (R-Barre Town, Williamstown) and Sarita Austin (D-Colchester) about their recent trip to Israel, and calls from some activist groups for their resignation on account of it.And Molly Millwood, clinical psychologist, author, and songwriter/performer, talks about her songwriting and career.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/09/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/08/2026.David Zuckerman invites Rick Winston and Andrea Serota share how Winter Sundays at Adamant Community Arts Center combats isolation. Then Superintendent Jamie Kinnarney explains Act 73, its impact on rural schools, and the Governor's education agenda.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/07/2026.

Rob talks Vermont Legislature with Dave Soulia of FYIVT on the start of the Legislative Session,then Rachel Feldman talks with Rob about anti-semitism in Vermont and a bill up for debate about anti-semitism in the State House.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/05/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 01/02/2026.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/29/2025.Dan Evans previews a busy schedule for January at the Zenbarn in Waterbury, along with a few selections from some of the artists who will be performing there.Matt Cota offers his thoughts as we close in on the start of the 2026 Legislative session in Montpelier.And Brad features a few songs from Vermont Western Swing Artist Rick Norcross.

Paul Dame, Chair of the Vermont Republican Party, on the upcoming legislative session and 2026 election, and Amy Hornblas about her organization Stand Up Vermont and her new online forum, Vermont Back Porch.

Brad opens with a few stories from the Sheep Farm, then...Rusty Dewees "The Logger" exchanges gifts, shares about his holiday memories, his life and career, and provides a musical performance that brings Brad in for some help.Then Elizabeth Von Trapp and Brad exchange gifts, and Elizabeth offers up some music and good conversation, and talk about Christmas and love.

On this episode of Vermont Viewpoint, David first talks with Steve Howard, Executive Director of the Vermont State Employee Association VSEA, about Governor Scott's return-to-commute executive work order and what it means for state employees as well as Vermonters access to services. We will also discuss federal cuts and how that will impact Vermonters both through state programs and adjacent organizations such as the Community Action network across the state. Then, David will be joined by Alison Calderara, Executive Director of Capstone Community Action, and Liz Scharf, Director of Capstones Community Economic Development and Food Security, to discuss how Capstone has been helping central Vermonters make ends meet for over 60 years through programs like emergency food and heating assistance, housing counseling, financial coaching, workforce development, headstart and more.This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/18/2025.

Rob opens with Orange-1 Republican Representative Mike Tagliavia (Orange, Washington, Corinth, Vershire).Then Washington-Orange Republican Representative Gina Galfetti (Barre Town, Williamstown) joins in the second hour.The discussion revolves around Taxation issues, overspending in Montpelier, and the lack of affordability in Vermont.

WDEV Legislative Preview with Matt Cota of Meadow HillEducation Property Taxes, Health Care Affordability, Transportation Fund Warning Signs. Energy Costs & Climate Policy, A moment of Hope:  Split the Ticket 100,000 gallons of free fuel delivered through Split the Ticket;A 2025 Vermont Almanac preview WITH Patrick White, Dave Mance, Brett Stanciu;and then Seth Soloway, Executive Director OF Spruce Peak Artsand Eric “Ricky” McKinnie of the Blind Boys of Alabama, who areperforming a Christmas Concert Friday December 19th, 7:00 p.m.at Spruce Peak ArtsThe Blind Boys Christmas Show mixes holiday standards with selections from their Grammy-winning holiday classic album, Go Tell It On The Mountain and the spirited Talkin' Christmas album. Blind Boys will have everyone in the audience singing and clapping along to spread the joy of the season! 

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/12/25.

On this episode of Policy Hour, host David Zuckerman leads two critical conversations shaping Vermont's future. From 9–10 AM, Senator Martine Larocque Gulick and Representative Edye Graning join David to unpack the School Redistricting Task Force's recommendations and how state leaders have responded. Then, from 10–11 AM, Saru Jayaraman, President of One Fair Wage, explores the fight for fair pay, tipped wages, and what economic justice means for Vermont workers. Tune in for thoughtful dialogue on education and equity.This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/11/2025.

Ross talks first with Jared Rhoads, founder and director of the Center for Modern Health, informs listeners about the reasons behind rising health insurance costs and what can be done to improve Vermont's Healthcare policies.Then John Byrnes, Strategic Director with Concerned Veterans for America, discusses the new 2025 National Security Strategy released by the Trump Administration and what priorities have changed from past defense plans.Next, Dave Soulia from FYIVT.com joins the show to break down rising property taxes and how it can impact every Vermonter.And Tyler Lindholm, State Director with Americans for Prosperity-Wyoming, talks bull riding, permitting reform, and the secret to Wyoming's economic success.

Rob talks first with Caledonia County Republican Senator Scott Beck, a member of the Act 73 Redistricting Task Force, on Education Costs, and what may happen at the State House in the upcoming Legislative Session.and then is joined by Graham Merriweather, of the Liberty Foodfest, coming up in Bellows Falls this Thursday through Saturday, December 11th through 13th. John Klar, of the Small Farm Republic, calls in during this segment.

Brad Ferland hold a tribute to Jon Gailmor, renowned Vermont musician, died peacefully on November 30, 2025 after a year and a half long battle with Leukemia. He died with his family surrounding him, at his son's home, with his music playing and his family singing along. Featuring Jack Donovan in the studio, Patti Casey, Elisabeth Von Trapp and Taryn Noelle. Also, Elliott Greenblott with AARP Fraud watch. Finally. Rob Smolla. Former President of Vermont Law and Graduate School on rules and constitutional law on the second strike on the suspected drug boat and other constitutional challenges and separation of powers. Rodney Smolla assumed the position of president of Vermont Law and Graduate School on July 1, 2022. After three years of dedicated service, he stepped down from his role as president, effective July 1, 2025, to focus on writing and teaching as a member of the VLGS faculty.This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/08/2025.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/05/2025.

In this special two-hour episode, we bring you two powerful voices shaping Vermont's future.Bill McKibben, renowned environmentalist and author of Here Comes the Sun, shares why renewable energy offers not just a climate solution but a chance to build a fairer, more democratic society.Grace Oedel, Executive Director of NOFA-VT and community leader, joins us to discuss building resilient communities, the intersection of faith and activism, and her vision for Vermont's next chapter.Tune in for a conversation about hope, action, and the power of local leadershipThis episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/04/25.

Ross starts with Drew Cline, President of the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, discusses their new “Civil Discourse Series” and how more free speech is the answer to partisanship.then, Jon Dipietro, Founder of Liberty Digital, informs listeners about the constantly changing environment for Artificial Intelligence, potential benefits, threats, and the best way to use the toolsJohn Goodnight updates listeners about the potential for peace between Ukraine and Russiaand Ed Tarnowski, Policy Director and host of the State of Choice Podcast with Ed Choice, discusses the state of the education freedom movement, how education freedom policies are more efficient, save taxpayers money, and have better results for the students.

Rob and Kurt discuss the 'December 1 Letter' that predicts a 12 percent increase in the property tax for the upcoming year, political races in the City of Burlington and the State of Vermont, and prospects for the 2026 New York Yankees, among other topics, with plenty of listener phone calls.

Host Brad Ferland talks first with Dr. Douglass Teschner about his new Book, Beyond the Politics of contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times, a hopeful roadmap for Americans trying to make sense of this dark moment and striving to find a better way;Then Lindsay Deslaurier, owner of the family-owned Bolton Valley Ski Resort, on an early start to the season, and what's new this year, plus memories of seasons past;Then WDEV's Lee Kittell talks with Brad about the recently-concluded RadioVermont trip to Antarctica, put together by Milne Travel and Atlas Ocean Voyages.