Podcast appearances and mentions of bill bartholomew

Send us Fan MailRhode Island's primary sprint, the Providence mayor's race, and the shakeup in statewide politicsWith early voting underway, Bill Bartholomew and Jim Hummel (The Hummel Report, Ocean State Media, WPRO) break down a Rhode Island primary that feels unusually compressed, low-energy, and wide open in several marquee races. They focus on the governor's race, the Providence mayoral primary, and how turnout, apathy, and candidate organization could decide everything.We discuss why the governor's race appears to be Helena Foulkes versus Dan McKee, why Providence mayor could be the most consequential contest on the ballot, and how the attorney general and lieutenant governor primaries are shaped by heavy uncertainty and weak candidate separation. The conversation also zooms out to the collapse of Rhode Island Republican infrastructure and the question of whether independent Ken Block can change the dynamics.Key topicsThe primary feels like a sprint after a long buildup, with very little time to energize voters before election day.Hummel argues that apathy is the dominant force in this cycle, especially because many races feel either predetermined or hard to differentiate.In the governor's race, Dan McKee is framed as carrying a long list of political liabilities, including the Washington Bridge, CVS/opioids, and general voter fatigue.Helena Foulkes is seen as holding a consistent polling advantage, with multiple polls showing her ahead by a meaningful margin.The Providence mayor's race between incumbent Brett Smiley and challenger David Morales is described as the most interesting contest, with Morales bringing national attention and youthful energy.Smiley's strength is his political infrastructure, especially his turnout operation and support from Eddie Catucci, who is described as a master of mail ballots and ground game.The lieutenant governor and attorney general primaries are portrayed as crowded and muddy, with lots of undecided voters and very little ideological separation.The discussion notes that gun policy and constitutional concerns may be pushing some Democratic voters away from more aggressive positions in the AG race.National anti-incumbent sentiment is seen as helping challengers broadly, but not necessarily translating cleanly to every local race.Rhode Island Republicans are described as deeply weakened, lacking a coherent bench, a strong message, or an effective opposition strategy.Aaron Guckian and the Republican gubernatorial field are viewed as weakly positioned, while the congressional races are portrayed as even more chaotic.Ken Block is treated as the most plausible wild card in the governor's race, especially if he can consolidate support or benefit from a one-on-one dynamic.Timestamps(00:00) Opening the primary sprint and why this cycle feels flat (01:43) Why turnout and election-day energy matter more than usual (03:23) Providence mayor becomes the race to watch (05:36) McKee's polling problem and the uphill climb in the governor's race (06:23) What could help McKee and what still works against him (07:31) Smiley's turnout machine versus Morales' grassroots energy (08:42) Why the lieutenant governor and AG races are so unsettled (09:46) Little separation in the AG field and the gun policy divide (11:23) Does national anti-incumbent anger spill into Rhode Island? (13:14) What Providence schools and city management mean for Smiley (14:15) The collapse of the Rhode Island Republican ecosystem (15:55) Why the GOP congressional slate looks so weak (17:14) How Trump hollowed out the state party (19:41) Could Ken Block become the real governor's race alternative? (21:55) Block's media strategy and money challenge (22:25) Election day timing, early voting, and closing thoughtsSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailRhode Island's primary sprint, the Providence mayor's race, and the shakeup in statewide politicsWith early voting underway, Bill Bartholomew and Hummel break down a Rhode Island primary that feels unusually compressed, low-energy, and wide open in several marquee races. They focus on the governor's race, the Providence mayoral primary, and how turnout, apathy, and candidate organization could decide everything.We discuss why the governor's race appears to be Helena Foulkes versus Dan McKee, why Providence mayor could be the most consequential contest on the ballot, and how the attorney general and lieutenant governor primaries are shaped by heavy uncertainty and weak candidate separation. The conversation also zooms out to the collapse of Rhode Island Republican infrastructure and the question of whether independent Ken Block can change the dynamics.Key topicsThe primary feels like a sprint after a long buildup, with very little time to energize voters before election day.Hummel argues that apathy is the dominant force in this cycle, especially because many races feel either predetermined or hard to differentiate.In the governor's race, Dan McKee is framed as carrying a long list of political liabilities, including the Washington Bridge, CVS/opioids, and general voter fatigue.Helena Foulkes is seen as holding a consistent polling advantage, with multiple polls showing her ahead by a meaningful margin.The Providence mayor's race between incumbent Brett Smiley and challenger David Morales is described as the most interesting contest, with Morales bringing national attention and youthful energy.Smiley's strength is his political infrastructure, especially his turnout operation and support from Eddie Catucci, who is described as a master of mail ballots and ground game.The lieutenant governor and attorney general primaries are portrayed as crowded and muddy, with lots of undecided voters and very little ideological separation.The discussion notes that gun policy and constitutional concerns may be pushing some Democratic voters away from more aggressive positions in the AG race.National anti-incumbent sentiment is seen as helping challengers broadly, but not necessarily translating cleanly to every local race.Rhode Island Republicans are described as deeply weakened, lacking a coherent bench, a strong message, or an effective opposition strategy.Aaron Guckian and the Republican gubernatorial field are viewed as weakly positioned, while the congressional races are portrayed as even more chaotic.Ken Block is treated as the most plausible wild card in the governor's race, especially if he can consolidate support or benefit from a one-on-one dynamic.Timestamps(00:00) Opening the primary sprint and why this cycle feels flat (01:43) Why turnout and election-day energy matter more than usual (03:23) Providence mayor becomes the race to watch (05:36) McKee's polling problem and the uphill climb in the governor's race (06:23) What could help McKee and what still works against him (07:31) Smiley's turnout machine versus Morales' grassroots energy (08:42) Why the lieutenant governor and AG races are so unsettled (09:46) Little separation in the AG field and the gun policy divide (11:23) Does national anti-incumbent anger spill into Rhode Island? (13:14) What Providence schools and city management mean for Smiley (14:15) The collapse of the Rhode Island Republican ecosystem (15:55) Why the GOP congressional slate looks so weak (17:14) How Trump hollowed out the state party (19:41) Could Ken Block become the real governor's race alternative? (21:55) Block's media strategy and money challenge (22:25) Election day timing, early voting, and closing thoughtsSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailConnor Blier on Providence Ward 13, rent stabilization and local political trustConnor Blier joins Bartholomewtown to explain why he entered the open Providence Ward 13 race and how his personal history in Rhode Island shapes his campaign. The conversation centers on rent stabilization, city leadership, and his broader argument that local politics has drifted away from working-class residents.We discuss Blier's criticism of insider politics, his belief that the recent rent stabilization effort was used as a political tool, and why he says the city needs representatives who answer the phone, show up in neighborhoods, and write policy from lived experience.Key topicsBlier says he entered the Ward 13 race because he sees a repeat of what he experienced in Rhode Island's cannabis industry, where he believes small operators were squeezed out by corruption and insider access.He argues that the original dispensary licensing process hurt local homeowners and small businesses, and says that experience made him wary of how government power can push working people out.The discussion turns to Providence rent stabilization, where Blier says he supports meaningful protection for renters and homeowners, but only if the policy is written carefully enough to avoid harming small property owners and neighborhood families.He claims the rent stabilization push was used as a political maneuver rather than a sincere effort to pass workable legislation, and says working-class people were being turned against each other for electoral purposes.Bill Bartholomew presses Blier on whether the City Council and Mayor Smiley ever had a realistic path to a deal, and Blier responds that the process lacked honesty and clear intent.Blier says his campaign is aimed at local representation first: answering calls, helping residents navigate city services, and being physically present in the ward.He describes Ward 13 as a working-class district and says the city's biggest issue is cost of living, especially housing pressure and the risk of homelessness.He argues Providence has not built enough housing, has failed to keep pace with population growth, and needs to incentivize development while also protecting people already living there.Blier says he is running against the political machine rather than just an opponent, pointing to endorsements, out-of-state money, and establishment ties as signs of a broader insider network.He closes by saying the race is a chance to break that system and restore local, working-class voice to Ward 13.Timestamps00:00 - Ward 13 special election and why Connor Blier jumped in00:30 - Cannabis licensing, small business losses, and Blier's origin story03:03 - What Blier means by corruption in Rhode Island politics06:26 - Rent stabilization becomes the central Providence issue07:24 - Support for tenant protections, but only with real carve outs09:22 - Why Blier says small homeowners could get caught in bad policy10:35 - The recording involving Senator Sam Bell and the rent vote12:45 - Bill challenges the claim that the process was a sham13:45 - Blier argues the council had the votes to pass it15:57 - Why Blier says local government should focus on residents first18:14 - Cost of living, housing pressure, and the working class in Providence19:37 - Record tax rates, city spending, and frustration with priorities20:39 - Why Blier says he is running against the political machine21:29 - Out-of-state money, endorsements, and insider influence22:54 - The Ward 13 opening and Blier's case for a local candidate24:36 - Campaign response, neighborhood reception, and limited resources27:14 - Blier on mayoral politics, local trust, and neighborhood accountability Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailBill Bartholomew talks with Katie Sonder, Associate Director and Fellow at the Salve Regina University Pell Center, about the center's August 2026 Voices of Value poll and what it says about Rhode Island's Democratic and Republican primary races. The conversation focuses on the headline McKee-Folkes result, the unusually high number of undecided voters, and how academic polling can fill a gap left by shrinking local media polling.Bill Bartholomew frames the poll, questions the methodology, and argues that academic polling is becoming more important as traditional outlets poll less often. Katie Sonder explains the survey design, the likely-voter screen, the two-step question process for undecided respondents, and why the Pell Center launched the project in the first place.Key topicsIn this episode, the main headline is the Democratic gubernatorial primary poll showing Helena Folkes ahead of incumbent Governor Dan McKee, 48% to 28%.Katie Sonder says the most surprising finding is the size of the undecided bloc, especially in down-ballot races like Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General, where nearly half of likely voters are unsure.Sonder explains the poll's two-question method for undecideds: respondents first pick among candidates, then are asked again if they have to choose.The Pell Center's Voices of Value project is designed to track Rhode Island views on state issues and national issues, including democracy, polarization, media habits, legislation, and bridge reconstruction.Bill and Katie discuss the broader role of academia in polling and journalism as local media budgets shrink and fewer outlets produce their own statewide polls.Sonder says the Pell Center sees the poll as a public good and a bridge between the university and the community.On the Democratic side, Sonder points to crowded fields and lower name recognition as reasons for uncertainty in races like Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General.Bill notes that in the Lieutenant Governor race, Sabina Matos and Zay Collin are near the top, but the undecided share remains very high.In the Attorney General race, Kim Ahern leads the pack, but 46% of voters are still unsure.The Senate discussion turns to the three-way race involving Jack Reed, Connor Burbridge, and Dr. Luis Daniel Munoz, with Bill arguing that Burbridge's 12% reflects real campaign momentum.On the Republican side, Sonder explains that the smaller sample size means a larger margin of error, but Elaine Poirino still holds a notable lead over Aaron and Jukian.Bill emphasizes the transparency of the Pell Center's materials, including the report, crosstabs, methodology, and survey questions.Timestamps00:00 - New Pell Center poll and the McKee-Folkes Democratic primary headline00:44 - Katie Sonder on the biggest surprise: the undecided vote02:30 - How the poll's two-step undecided question works04:49 - Why the Pell Center launched Voices of Value06:03 - Academia, journalism, and the shrinking local polling ecosystem07:14 - Why the Pell Center sees polling as a public service10:48 - How Katie thinks about reliability and academic rigor11:30 - Why down-ballot races have so many undecided voters12:40 - Using the poll to inform voters and candidate research13:10 - Jack Reed race, Connor Burbridge, and campaign momentum14:10 - Lieutenant governor race read: Matos, Zay Collin, and weak showings14:40 - Republican primary polling challenges and Elaine Poirino's lead15:28 - Sample size, margin of error, and confidence on the GOP side16:44 - Why the Republican race remains too fluid to call18:39 - Where to find the report, crosstabs, methodology, and survey questions19:24 - Transparency, expertise, and why the poll matters in the civic landscape Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailDemocratic Primary Forum: RI Attorney GeneralA candidate forum for the 2026 Democratic primary race for Rhode Island Attorney General, featuring:Keith HoffmanJason KnightKim AhernJoe Solomon Jr.Moderated by Bill Bartholomew.In this episode: Candidates fielded questions on [topics discussed — e.g., public safety, consumer protection, gun policy, housing enforcement, environmental law, government accountability]. Each candidate laid out their vision for the office and how they'd approach the priorities of the next AG. Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailFour Democratic candidates for Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor squared off in a forum moderated by Bill Bartholomew.The CandidatesSabina Matos — Incumbent Lieutenant Governor First appointed to the office in 2021 when Dan McKee moved up to governor; won a full term in 2022. Previously served on the Providence City Council, including as council president. Seeking a second full term; has made grocery affordability and housing central to her agenda.Sue AnderBois — Providence City Councilor, Ward 3 Elected to the council in 2022; left a job at The Nature Conservancy to launch her campaign in November 2025. Cites her work chairing the North Main Street Task Force as a model for bringing stakeholders together on housing and infrastructure issues.Cindy Coyne — Former State Senator, Barrington Served in the RI Senate from 2015–2023, chairing the Judiciary Committee; a retired State Police lieutenant. First candidate to formally enter the race (June 2025). Points to legislation banning untraceable "ghost guns" as a signature accomplishment.Xay Khamsyvoravong — Former Mayor/City Councilor, Newport Entered the race in March 2026, the last of the four to join. Brown University grad, RWU law degree, spent 15+ years in banking including as SVP at Webster Bank; earlier was deputy chief of staff to General Treasurer Frank Caprio. Has led in fundraising for much of the race and campaigns on housing, infrastructure, and education investment "without raising taxes on working families." Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailThis episode dives into the recent fallout within Rhode Island's Democratic Party, the implications of the party endorsement failures, and what it suggests about the broader political landscape. With insights from local political observer Bill Bartholomew, we explore what these internal shifts mean for upcoming elections, leadership, and policy priorities.Key topics:The significance of the Rhode Island Democratic Party not endorsing Governor Dan McKeeThe internal party factionalism: McKee's faction versus the anti-incumbent baseHow political energy and internal party dynamics reflect broader voter sentiment and changeThe impact of campaign messaging, especially the gubernatorial commercial and candidate performanceThe disconnect between campaign tactics and meaningful policy discussions such as housing and environmental initiativesThe influence of party endorsements and internal alignments on election outcomesThe role of media, social media, and traditional approaches in shaping voter perceptionsFuture opportunities for debate and issues-focused campaign conversationsTimestamps:00:00 - Analyzing the Rhode Island Democratic convention and low-endorsing of Dan McKee02:09 - The role of union endorsements and their potential impact on McKee's campaign02:35 - Does party endorsement influence undecided voters?03:19 - The internal party factions and shifting allegiances over the past year04:22 - The factional divide: McKee's supporters versus reform-minded members05:10 - Evidence of the party moving away from McKee: messaging and organizational shifts06:30 - The internal energy and desire for change within the party base07:09 - Helena Bonanno Folk's momentum and the broader landscape of political change08:14 - The significance of party energy as a reflection of voter mood and internal dynamics09:01 - The implications of the party's stance on candidate endorsements at the convention09:41 - Historical parallels: party endorsements from past elections and their outcomes10:02 - The focus on policy issues like housing, zoning, and environmental challenges11:02 - The importance of substantive policy discussions over campaign messaging11:55 - The evolving landscape of media engagement and campaign communication strategies12:57 - Analyzing Governor McKee's campaign commercial and the importance of authentic messaging14:12 - The message and symbolism behind campaign visuals and gestures15:07 - The importance of genuine presence and performance in political communication16:05 - The state's current priorities: healthcare, housing, and energy projects like Revolution Wind18:10 - The disconnect between campaign messaging and the actual issues facing Rhode Island19:17 - External perceptions of the political system and the importance of leadership authenticity20:29 - Summing up: How do McKee's and Folk's visions differ for Rhode Island?21:11 - Closing reflections: The undercurrent of voter undecidedness and internal party turbulence Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailRhode Island Politics and Media Changes: Analyzing the Recent MovementsIn this episode, we explore the latest political maneuvers in Rhode Island, focusing on Speaker Joe Ciccarchi's potential transition from legislative leader to Supreme Court Justice, and how media evolution is shaping public engagement. With insights from political reporter Ian Donis, you'll gain a clear understanding of the strategic considerations behind these shifts and the importance of local media in today's landscape.Key Topics:The political implications of Joe Ciccarchi's move to potentially become Rhode Island's next Supreme Court Justice.How timing and political context influence career moves in Rhode Island politics.The challenges and ethical considerations involved in judicial appointments linked to political figures.The evolving role and significance of Ocean State Media in Rhode Island's media landscape.The role of radio and local media as vital, free sources of trusted informationTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island political shifts and Ciccarchi's career move02:16 - Analysis of Ciccarchi's decision in the context of his long political career03:11 - Discussion on potential quid pro quo and ethical questions raised in the pursuit of judicial positions04:12 - The impact of the state's revolving door law and recent controversies around judicial appointments05:21 - The importance of temperament and legal reputation in judicial appointments06:40 - Ethical debates and precedent-setting implications of Ciccarchi's move07:42 - The ongoing challenges in Rhode Island's public policy issues and what leadership must do08:12 - Current dynamics of the governor's race and candidate viability09:21 - The influence of old-school figures like Robert Cool Moose on Rhode Island politics10:49 - Political coalition-building and candidate positioning in upcoming elections11:45 - The difficulties faced by independent candidates like Ken Block12:11 - The significance of local media in shaping political discourse and public trust13:14 - Ocean State Media's recent expansion and importance of radio in Rhode Island15:01 - The enduring value of radio as a free, trusted medium for public information16:23 - The future of local radio and its role in community engagement and journalismN.B. This episode was recorded prior to Joe Shekarchi's resignation as Speaker though presented as a likely outcome.Resources & Links:Ocean State MediaBill Bartholomew on TwitterIan Donis on FacebookConnect with Ian Donis:Ocean State MediaSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailIs Rhode Island's "boring" election cycle finally heating up? Dan McGowan (The Boston Globe) joins Bill Bartholomew to break down a week of major shifts in the Ocean State. They discuss why the Providence mayoral race is seeing a policy divide unlike any in recent history, the "new kid on the block" energy of Ken Block's independent run for Governor, and the political "horse-trading" surrounding a potential Supreme Court vacancy.Key Discussion PointsThe Providence Mayoral Divide: Why the battle over rent stabilization between Mayor Brett Smiley and Rep. David Morales represents a rare, policy-driven shift in city politics that could define the next council.The "38 Studios on Steroids" Effect: Dan explains why the Washington Bridge crisis has surpassed previous state scandals in its "stickiness" with voters and how it provides a massive opening for "fixer" candidates.The 2026 Gubernatorial Chess Board: An analysis of Ken Block's recent polling, his "new shiny" treatment in the media, and why Dan McKee and Helena Foulkes might be headed for an "opioids vs. competence" primary battle.Supreme Court Vacancy & Horse-Trading: A candid look at the possibility of Speaker Joe Shekarchi moving to the high court and the reality of how political judgeships are awarded in Rhode Island.AI and Data Centers: Bill reflects on a recent sold-out event in Newport, proving that "non-traditional" political issues are starting to break through with the average voter.About Our GuestDan McGowan is the Rhode Island columnist for The Boston Globe and author of the Rhode Map newsletter. You can subscribe to his daily coverage by emailing rinews@globe.com.Links & ResourcesFollow Bill: Instagram | YouTubeSupport the Show: Send us Fan Mail | Direct SupportOfficial Website: Bartholomewtown.com Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Send us Fan MailDr. Amy Nunn — CEO of the Rhode Island Public Health Institute and Open Door Health — joins Bill Bartholomew for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of public health in Rhode Island.Dr. Nunn shares what she's watching most closely in healthcare policy and politics across the state, including growing concerns about Rhode Island's primary care shortage and what it means for access, equity, and long-term system stability. The discussion explores why Rhode Island has recently ranked as one of the worst states for physicians to practice, and what structural challenges are driving that reality.Drawing on her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Nunn reflects on what she learned about operating as a nimble, community-focused practitioner in times of crisis — and how those lessons apply today. She also discusses navigating federal-level constraints on science and public health under the current political climate, and how local institutions can remain resilient and mission-driven.A grounded, insightful look at where Rhode Island public health stands — and where it may be headed next. Support the show

Send us Fan MailNikolas Gvosdev, a national security fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and professor at the U.S. Naval War College, and speaking on his own behalf, joins Bill Bartholomew to examine how The Iran War could impact Rhode Island—both in the immediate term and over the long haul.The conversation explores the economic ripple effects of global conflict, including energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and federal spending priorities that could directly influence local economies. Gvosdev highlights how national security decisions made in Washington can cascade down to states like Rhode Island, shaping everything from job markets to infrastructure investment.A key focus is the potential downstream impact on major projects such as the Washington Bridge, where shifts in federal funding and attention could delay or reshape critical repairs and development.The discussion also delves into the psychological dimension—how prolonged geopolitical instability can affect public sentiment, civic life, and the broader sense of security within local communities.In this episode: How global conflict with Iran could affect Rhode Island's economy  The connection between war, federal spending, and infrastructure projects  Why local projects like the Washington Bridge could feel global pressure  The psychological toll of geopolitical instability at the community level Support the show

Send a textEpisode Topic: Trump, Voter Rolls, and Federal Pressure on States Guest: Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg AmoreThe Trump campaign and conservative legal groups are escalating efforts to gain access to state voter rolls and election data, framing the push as “election integrity” while critics warn it could open the door to voter suppression, intimidation, and misuse of personal information.In this episode, Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore joins the show to explain:What the Trump-aligned effort is demanding from statesWhy Rhode Island is refusing to complyHow voter data can be misused — even when requests are technically legalThe line between transparency and voter protectionWhy this fight matters even if you trust your local election officialsWhat voters should know heading into the 2026 and 2028 election cyclesThis conversation pulls back the curtain on how elections are administered, how political pressure is applied behind the scenes, and why state-level officials are now on the front lines of defending democratic norms.Support the show

Send us a textLast week, a man died in the cold on the streets of Providence — a tragic reminder of the stakes in Rhode Island's ongoing unhoused crisis.On this episode, we're joined by Harrison Tuttle, a Rhode Island–based organizer and housing justice advocate, to talk about what's driving homelessness in the state, why existing systems continue to fail people in crisis, and what his organization is doing right now to get people housed.We discuss the realities of street homelessness, the shortage of shelter and permanent housing, the role of government at the state and municipal level, and why advocates argue that homelessness is not inevitable — but the result of policy choices.This conversation also examines how the public talks about homelessness, the human cost of inaction, and what meaningful solutions could look like if Rhode Island treated housing as a public good rather than a market commodity.Support the show

Send us a textRhode Island House Speaker Joe Shekarchi joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on the state's political moment. Shekarchi reacts to Governor Dan McKee's proposed budget, outlining where the House is aligned, where concerns remain, and what he sees as the legislature's priorities in the months ahead. The Speaker also speaks candidly about his own political future, addressing speculation about a potential run for governor in 2026 and how he's thinking about leadership, timing, and responsibility as one of the state's most powerful elected officials.Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew offers additional analysis of Governor McKee's State of the State address and is joined by veteran reporter Steve Klamkin to put the speech — and reaction from other political figures — into perspective.Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew provides on-location analysis from the Rhode Island State House following Governor McKee's delivery of the 2026 State of the State address. Support the show

Send us a textBoston Globe columnist and author of RhodeMap Dan McGowan joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the biggest Rhode Island stories of 2025. Support the show

Send us a textMike Raia, Fonder and President, Half Street Group, joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the best books, shows to binge and the best and worst Rhode Island stories of 2025. Support the show

Send us a textIan Donnis (Ocean State Media (NPR/PBS)) and Ted Nesi (WPRI TV) join Bill Bartholomew for a look ahead to 2026, a year that is anticipated to be a very interesting political season in Rhode Island. Support the show

Send us a textBrashani Reece is the Executive Director of "Drop LWOP" and joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss her work to end extreme prison sentences."I am dedicated to restoring hope for individuals serving extreme prison sentences. Through education, community outreach, and advocacy, we aim to bring awareness to the issue of "death by incarceration" (DBI)" Support the show

Send us a textRetired WPRO reporter Steve Klamkin joins Bill Bartholomew to reflect on his legendary career in radio and photography, the state of the journalism industry and the biggest stories of 2025. Support the show

Send us a textCitizen's Keith Kelly and Garden City Center's Joe Koechel join Bill Bartholomew to discuss 2026 holiday programming including the Citizens Holiday Village – An artistic installation designed by world-renowned card stacker and Guinness World Record-holder Bryan Berg, featuring a nostalgic miniature town made entirely of Citizens credit cards!  Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew welcomes Richard Culatta, a global education innovator and leader who notably served as the first Chief Innovation Officer for the State of Rhode Island from 2016 to 2017. He is a Rhode Island native and currently serves as the CEO of ISTE+ASCD Support the show

Send us a textProvidence Council President Rachel Miller joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the impact of Providence's noise ordinance on venues that host live and ambient music. Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew podcasts live from an outdoor igloo at acclaimed Narragansett restaurant The Coast Guard House with Bob Leonard (Co-Owner, Manager) and Elisa Wybraniec (Wine Director)Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew welcomes Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore for a conversation on election integrity, Rhode Island's "250" celebrations, his political future, youth sports and much more. Support the show

Director of Rhode Island Office Veteran's Services Kasim Yarn joins Bill Bartholomew. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textKeith Hoffmann is a former Chief of Policy to Rhode Island Attorney General Pete Neronha and is running for Attorney General of Rhode Island.  He joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss his candidacy.   Support the show

Send us a text* Free screening Weds Oct 8th at RISD, 6:30pm*Bill Bartholomew welcomes Ruth Leitman, Director "No One Asked You"Comedian Lizz Winstead and her team of activists crisscross the U.S. to break stigma and support abortion clinic staff. Support the show

Send us a textDr. Amy Nunn (Rhode Island Public Health Institute / Open Door Health) joins Bill Bartholomew to react to the Trump administration's claims that Tylenol use during pregnancy can be linked to autism in children. Support the show

Send us a textBoston Globe columnist Dan McGowan joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the Providence mayoral race.  Earlier this week, state representative David Morales, a leftist Democrat, announced his campaign to primary moderate Democrat incumbent Brett Smiley. Support the show

Send us a textCranston Police Chief Michael J. Winquist joins Bill Bartholomew to offer his position on the saga involving the police department's firing range, which is proximate to two schools and has drawn concern from community members. Support the show

Send us a textCranston residents Patricia Schoeninger and Martha DiMeo join Bill Bartholomew to discuss a controversial police gun range that is proximate to schools and residents.  DiMeo describes it as living in a "war zone". Support the show

Send us a textCoventry town solicitor Stephen Angell joins Bill Bartholomew to offer the town's perspective on the ongoing legal battle surrounding Johnson's Pond, a body of water that has been a source of frustration, litigious action and a case study in the privatization of waterways. Support the show

Send us a textBill Bartholomew speaks with Maren Morris at Newport Folk 2025. Support the show

Send us a textProvidence Streets Coalition's Dylan Giles joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the upcoming Transit-Oriented Beach Day and general Rhode Island transit developments. Support the show

Send us a textDr. Brian Erkkila, a former FDA official and an expert in tobacco harm reduction joins Bill Bartholomew for a discussion on a proposed tax increase on smoking alternative products like Zyn. Support the show

Send us a textUpriseRI's Greg Brailsford joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss BillBuddy, an initiative that provides detailed information on every piece of legislation that is introduced in Rhode Island  Support the show

Send us a textFrom the mayor's office, Bill Bartholomew sits down with Providence mayor Brett Smiley. Support the show

Send us a textRI native Manya Glassman is a director, writer and editor based in New York City. She has directed, written, and edited six films of her own and produced over eleven short films. Manya's films have been screened and gained recognition at Oscar qualifying festivals, such as the Rhode Island International Festival.She joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss her latest film How I Learned to Die, which will be screening at Tribeca. Support the show

Send us a textAmidst an ongoing labor dispute, two workers at Butler Hospital join Bill Bartholomew.Brooke Huminski, LICSW, Clinician/Social Worker in the Inpatient Assessment Center: Brooke has been at Butler for eight years in Butler's ER. She evaluates patients before they are treated. She is a strike captain.Nicole Anthony: Niki is a Registered Nurse with a background in both mental health and ICU nursing She has worked at Butler for 2.5 years  and currently works in Riverview 2 which is a brand new unit that opened in 2024. She is also a union delegate and on the negotiating committee. Support the show

Send us a textSteven Feinberg is the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film & Television Office, and has led the office for the past 20 years. He's known for bringing major productions to Rhode Island and for his work on the film "Pell". He also created a transferrable film tax credit that has attracted many big-budget films to the state. He joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss the production of "Real Housewives of Rhode Island" and other film and TV projects. Support the show

Send us a textRepresentative Megan Cotter joins Bill Bartholomew to discuss her latest legislative efforts to mitigate forest fires in Rhode Island. Support the show

Send us a textGrow Smart Rhode Island's Jillian Finkle joins Bill Bartholomew. Support the show

Send us a textWith the recent announcement that the Major League Rugby championship game will be played at Pawtucket's Tidewater Stadium and expanding youth participation in rugby, Bill Bartholomew speaks with Jeff Cares, Executive Director of Rugby Rhode Island Support the show

Send us a textRhode Island College recently released a report that includes a plan to cut twenty programs from the school's offerings.  Students join Bill Bartholomew to discuss an effort to push back on the proposed cuts.They are:Felix Fonseca Garcia, World Languages Education - Portuguese majorHak Kay, Gender Studies majorDanielle Hurowitz, Gender Studies majorRoman Kavanagh, English Major Support the show

Send us a textNavigant Credit Union's VP of Cash Management Brian Pereira joins Bill Bartholomew for April's episode of Financial Well Being. Support the show

Send us a textBreaking news: following a lengthy illness, Rhode Island Senate President Dominick Ruggerio has died.  The Boston Globe's Ed Fitzpatrick join Bill Bartholomew to discuss Ruggerio's legacy and what comes next on the governmental side. Support the show

Send us a textHalf Street Group Founder and President Mike Raia joins Bill Bartholomew for a discussion on small business communications strategies, plus, what little league can teach us about comms!http://www.halfstreetgroup.com Support the show

Send us a textThe recent announcement that Anchor Medical Associates will be closing its practice this summer has exacerbated an already strained health care system in Rhode Island.  Bill Bartholomew speaks with Blackstone Valley Community Health Care CEO and family physician Dr. Christy Pacheco and COO Mark Glovasky for insights on the extent of the issue. Support the show