Podcast
Bartholomewtown
Hosted by Bill Bartholomew · EN
Bartholomewtown is an independent news and interview podcast exploring Rhode Island through conversations with the people driving politics, culture, business, and public life. Hosted by journalist Bill Bartholomew, the show delivers insightful interviews, original reporting, and clear-eyed analysis from New England's smallest state—with stories that often resonate far beyond it.
63episodes
Episodes
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Eat Well, Be Well Program Expands Healthy Food For Rhode Islanders
4d ago00:23:17Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailGuests: Dr. Amy Nunn, CEO, Rhode Island Public Health InstituteChris Buchanan Director of Public Affairs and State and Local Government Relations with Walmart Stores, IncIn this episode, we explore the innovative Eat Well, Be Well program in Rhode Island, which successfully leverages public-private partnerships to promote healthy eating among SNAP recipients. Discover how automating incentives at checkout can increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and the potential for these strategies to scale into other areas of health and wellbeing.Main Topics:The origin and goals of the Eat Well, Be Well initiativeHow the program doubles the value of SNAP benefits for produce in retail locationsThe seamless, no-signup approach that simplifies access to healthy foodsThe role of technology in efficient program administrationData and impact: how the program benefits thousands of Rhode IslandersStrategies for scaling similar incentive models to broader health behaviorsFuture expansion possibilities beyond produce, including active lifestylesThe importance of cross-sector collaboration in shaping healthier communitiesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guests00:16 - Guest introductions: Chris Buchanan and Dr. Amy Nunn01:04 - The purpose and history of the Eat Well, Be Well program01:33 - How the program supports affordability of healthy foods for SNAP recipients02:10 - Program funding sources and extension through COVID relief dollars02:55 - Walmart’s involvement: why they joined the pilot program03:27 - Making healthy shopping affordable and practical03:57 - Seamless incentive application at checkout05:11 - Behind the scenes logistics of integrating the program into retailer systems06:52 - Advice for retailers interested in adopting similar models09:00 - Evaluation results and program impact on Rhode Island households09:36 - Reaching vulnerable populations: children and the elderly11:43 - The potential for expanding incentives to other health behaviors and products12:19 - The concept of behavioral economics in promoting healthy choices13:21 - The possibility of broader incentive programs across health and activity sectors15:00 - Creative ideas for encouraging physical activity through retail and community efforts16:18 - The importance of partnership among government, private sector, and public health16:35 - The scalability of incentive programs and future opportunities17:21 - Final thoughts on collaborative efforts driving community health improvements18:07 - Closing remarks Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →Dr. Nelly Burdette Could Flip a Rural-Suburban Senate District in Rhode Island
5d ago00:30:54Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr. Nelly Burdette, Psy D, shares her journey from healthcare professional to political candidate, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, health equity, and addressing local issues like housing and public trust. Her approach highlights how expertise in public health can reshape legislative priorities at the state level, especially in a diverse district.Key Topics:Nelly Burdette’s background in healthcare and what motivated her to run for State SenateThe significance of running at the community level versus higher officeHow her public health experience informs her legislative prioritiesThe pressing issues in her district: healthcare access, affordable housing, and agingStrategies for rebuilding trust and engagement within the communityThe importance of creative solutions to housing shortages, avoiding green space developmentThe role of small businesses and local economic healthThe dynamic district of Lincoln, North Smithfield, and North ProvidenceHer stance on local legislative support and recent political debatesThe challenge of infrastructure and resource sustainability for new housing projectsHer motivation for challenging the incumbent and the potential impact on local politicsThe importance of party involvement and tactical campaigning in local racesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction / background and political campaign02:03 - Why focus on local community engagement over higher offices04:46 - Support from Democratic groups and her community-based approach08:25 - Major gaps in healthcare access and affordability in Rhode Island10:21 - Vision for a better Rhode Island: Health, Aging, and Small Business13:10 - Creative housing solutions: repurposing abandoned buildings and green space preservation15:21 - Trust issues in Lincoln and rebuilding community ties17:46 - The importance of local legislation and community responsiveness20:06 - Immediate legislative priorities: healthcare and affordable housing initiatives21:02 - Support for local policies and her stance on key political issues22:41 - Challenges with housing development on Wilbur Road and sustainability concerns24:28 - The broader significance of community-level leadership and expertise in governance26:08 - Final thoughts on running to create meaningful change and the role of political strategy Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →How Rhode Island's New Legislation Balances Wildlife Safety and Pest Control Needs
2w ago00:23:24Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailReducing Toxicity in Rhode Island: How Legislation Shifts Pest Control and Wildlife ConservationIn this episode, we explore Rhode Island's recent legislation to restrict dangerous anticoagulant rodenticides—making it the second state in the US to implement such restrictions. Maxwell McFarland, Advocacy Director at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, shares insights into the legislative process, ecological impacts, and practical alternatives for pest management that protect wildlife and human communities.Key Topics:The significance and impact of Rhode Island’s new pesticide control lawHistorical context: how past bans (DDT, neonictinoids) shaped current regulationChallenges and strategies in passing environmental legislationThe ecological damage caused by anticoagulant rodenticidesPractical, wildlife-safe alternatives: habitat management, trash containment, and rodent birth controlThe importance of balancing public health, pest control needs, and ecological integrityThe role of open spaces and habitat preservation in natural pest managementCommunity involvement and phased implementation for effective policy adoptionBroader ecological concerns: insect mass decline and ecosystem healthPerspectives on urban planning and wildlife conservation—preserving habitat amid developmentTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Rhode Island’s new pesticide legislation00:28 - Why restricting anticoagulant rodenticides matters01:11 - Historical background: from DDT to neonictinoids01:40 - The environmental and wildlife impact of rodent poisons02:24 - The legislative process behind the bill’s success03:25 - The role of wildlife clinics and evidence of poisoning effects04:46 - Natural pest control: owl and raptor impacts05:06 - Practical solutions: substitutes and habitat management05:40 - Legislative exemptions and pragmatic compromises06:30 - California’s model and balance between regulation and use07:21 - Challenges in changing pest control practices08:05 - The limitations of current alternatives and the push for sustainable solutions09:05 - Innovations: GIS technology and rodent population tracking10:27 - Rodent contraceptives as a long-term control method11:01 - The phased approach: experimentation and community involvement11:34 - Opportunities for local experimentation and avoiding heavy-handed regulation12:05 - The importance of community-led pest management strategies12:47 - Ecosystem health and biodiversity’s role in pest control13:47 - The ecological role of rats and the limits of extermination14:16 - Impact of habitat preservation on ecosystem health14:48 - Supporting wildlife habitats through open spaces15:46 - The significance of the estuary habitat project in Newport16:23 - Community discussions around Hazard Road and habitat preservation16:47 - The balance between development and wildlife conservation17:17 - The role of advocacy and community input in urban planning17:44 - Final thoughts: prioritizing wildlife in city development and legislation18:14 - Closing remarks: the future intersection of climate, ecosystem, and public healthResources & Links:Audubon Society of Rhode IslandRhode Island Legislation on PesticidesRelated historical bans: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)California’s Wildlife Protection Laws Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →RI's Revolutionary History: Secretary of State Gregg Amore
3w ago00:20:10Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThis episode explores Rhode Island’s pivotal contributions to American independence, highlighting its unique history, key figures, and ongoing commemorations for the 250th anniversary. Learn why Rhode Island’s self-governance and revolutionary acts are fundamental to understanding the nation’s birth and how the state is celebrating this historic milestone today.Main topics: Rhode Island's early role in the American Revolution and its unique self-governance Key figures and events, including the Gaspi incident and Stephen Hopkins The significance of Revolutionary-era sites and ongoing 250th celebrations The importance of acknowledging America’s complex history, including struggles with race and equality How Rhode Island’s history informs current conversations about liberty and patriotism Timestamps: 00:00 - Setting the scene in Bristol and Rhode Island’s revolutionary energy 00:31 - Rhode Island’s role in early American history and revolution 00:44 - Celebrating Declaration of Independence displays and public engagement 01:22 - Public reactions to viewing the Declaration and related documents 03:03 - Starting points for newcomers to Rhode Island’s revolutionary history 03:19 - The Gaspi incident as the first shot in anger and its significance 04:04 - The formation of committees of correspondence and Rhode Island’s leadership in pushback 04:44 - Rhode Island’s unique self-governance under the 1663 Royal Charter 05:40 - Rhode Island’s contributions to the Continental Army and Navy 07:04 - Rhode Island’s 250th programming and celebrations across the state 07:50 - Key historic sites such as Colony House in Newport and the Old State House in Providence 08:50 - Notable figures: Stephen Hopkins, Nathaniel Green, and their roles 10:22 - Recent efforts to include Black history and historic revisionism 11:26 - The importance of confronting all aspects of American history 12:55 - Celebrating the principles of liberty and equality in American history 14:45 - Current initiatives to commemorate and reflect on the nation’s founding principles 15:11 - Closing remarks and upcoming merchandise for the Rhode Island 250 celebrationResources & Links: Rhode Island 250 Rhode Island 250 Merchandise Store Rhode Island Black History Connect with Secretary Greg Amore: Rhode Island Secretary of State - LinkedIn Twitter Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →How RI Startup "Transgender Zone" Builds Community, Resilience Amidst Anti-Trans Laws
3w ago00:20:25Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailBuilding Community and Support for Transgender Individuals: The Story of Transgender ZoneIn this episode, Victoria St. Germain shares her inspiring journey from navigating a challenging transition in Rhode Island to founding Transgender Zone — a digital platform transforming how trans people connect, find support, and access vital resources. Her insights highlight the importance of community, resilience, and scaled support systems in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and safety.Key Topics:Victoria's experience growing up and transitioning in Rhode Island, including the legal and social challenges facedHow Rhode Island's unique demographic impacts the trans community’s support networkThe creation and impact of Transgender Zone: resources, community building, and scaling opportunitiesThe role of digital communities in providing safety, education, and connection during a global health crisisThe importance of advocacy, visibility, and platforming trans voices in a hostile legal environmentChallenges faced as a startup in a mission-driven social enterprise, including funding and growth hurdlesThe urgent need for supportive platforms amid increasing anti-trans legislation and attacksPractical advice for allies: how to support and amplify trans voicesTimestamps:00:00 — Introduction to Victoria St. Germain and her work with Transgender Zone 02:08 — Victoria’s personal experience growing up as a trans person in Rhode Island 04:00 — Unique advantages and disadvantages of transitioning in Rhode Island 04:56 — The motivation behind creating Transgender Zone and its early development 06:03 — Features of Transgender Zone: community, live coaching, educational modules 06:32 — How the platform fosters a diverse, supportive trans community 07:27 — Scaling plans and ambitions for Transgender Zone to reach more trans individuals globally 08:41 — The importance of digital spaces in post-COVID support and healthcare access 09:53 — Challenges faced in starting and growing the platform amid legal and political threats 11:19 — The resilience of the trans community and passing down vital safety and transition knowledge 13:21 — The current legislative landscape and the fight against anti-trans laws 14:25 — A call to action for allies: support, platform, and advocate for trans communitiesResources & Links:Transgender ZoneSocial Enterprise GreenhouseConnect with Victoria St. Germain:LinkedInTwitter Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →How Newport Heights Exemplifies Successful Affordable Housing Redevelopment - Secretary Deborah Goddard, Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing + Eva Erlich, Vice President of Development at Trinity Financial
3w ago00:20:00Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailGUESTS:Secretary Deborah Goddard, Rhode Island Executive Office of HousingEva Erlich, Vice President of Development at Trinity FinancialThis episode dives into a real-world case of rebuilding community and creating sustainable affordable housing—focusing on Newport Heights. With insights from housing experts, we explore how innovative financing, strategic preservation, and thoughtful design can transform public housing and inspire broader change.Key Topics:The history and success of Newport Heights as a Hope Six redevelopment projectHow refinancing tools like RAD enable long-term sustainabilityThe twin importance of preservation and new development in meeting housing needsChallenges and strategies for aging public housing infrastructureThe role of partnerships among government, private sector, and community stakeholdersThe broader housing supply problem and solutions through production and preservationTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of the conversation00:35 - Background on Newport Heights’ transformation from Tonomy Hill Public Housing01:24 - The significance of Hope Six and RAD in housing redevelopment02:13 - The impact of good design and refinancing on longevity03:38 - Trinity’s role and financial approach in housing projects04:36 - Resident involvement and community connection post-renovation05:13 - Balancing reinvestment in existing infrastructure versus new projects05:57 - The importance of preservation amidst funding challenges07:09 - Addressing aging properties and renovation strategies08:03 - Cost considerations and long-term affordability09:24 - Early planning and proactive refinancing efforts10:12 - The frequency of preservation discussions across Rhode Island11:29 - Ongoing projects and Trinity’s portfolio strategies12:30 - Broader outlook on Rhode Island’s housing market and supply issues13:39 - The necessity of balancing preservation with new housing production14:55 - Final thoughts on using successful projects as a blueprint for change Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →The Hidden Costs of Fines and Fees in the US Criminal Justice System: URI's Dr. Brittany Martin
4w ago00:18:08Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThis episode explores how financial penalties within the justice system disproportionately impact low-income communities, often leading to a cycle of debt and criminalization. University of Rhode Island's Dr. Brittany Martin shares insights from her research on monetary sanctions and discusses promising reforms at the state level, particularly Rhode Island's efforts to waive court fees for indigent defendants.In this episode:The various forms of financial penalties beyond fines, including court fees, restitution, and probation costsHow these sanctions are applied unevenly and tend to burden low-income individuals more heavilyThe impact of traffic violations becoming criminal offenses in certain states, contributing to ongoing financial stressRhode Island's legislative reforms eliminating court costs for many defendants and the observed outcomesThe role of assessment of ability to pay in improving collections while promoting fairnessHow research can inform legislative change and court practices around fines and feesThe importance of justice that balances accountability with economic realitiesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the issue of fines and fees in criminal justice00:28 - Background: Research origins and early interests in monetary sanctions01:14 - Types of financial penalties: Fines, fees, restitution, and jail costs02:13 - The scope of monetary sanctions and their enforcement across states02:59 - Public defender fees and misconceptions about free legal aid03:29 - Restitution and incarceration costs impacting low-income individuals04:45 - The disproportionate burden on those with lower incomes05:07 - How monetary sanctions erode perceived justice and legitimacy06:23 - Statistically how most defendants are indigent, with significant consequences06:57 - Traffic violations as criminal offenses and their financial implications07:15 - The cycle created by criminal traffic offenses and probation fees08:20 - Policy shifts: Rhode Island’s legislation to waive court fees for indigent defendants09:20 - The recent reforms and their early impacts in Rhode Island11:38 - The broader movement across states to reform or eliminate municipal and court fees12:06 - Dr. Martin’s role at the Fines and Fees Justice Center and her focus on ability-to-pay assessments13:21 - How research can inform policies that improve efficiency and fairness in courts14:33 - Key questions for Rhode Island political candidates about criminal justice reform and financial burdens15:37 - Closing thoughts on the importance of justice that respects economic diversity and fairnessSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →Rhode Island KIDS COUNT Executive Director Paige Parks
4w ago00:34:58Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThis episode dives into Rhode Island's latest child well-being report, revealing critical insights into the state's progress and ongoing challenges. Paige Parks discusses with Rhode Island Kids Count Executive Director, Paige Parks, about systemic issues affecting children—covering poverty, education gaps, healthcare access, and immigrant family experiences.In this episode:The significance of data-driven advocacy for children's issuesOver 15% of Rhode Island children live in poverty, amidst soaring housing costsTrends in education: declining absenteeism but persistent challenges in early childhood accessImpact of federal policy changes on health insurance and social servicesThe rising number of children in immigrant families—nearly 30%—and the importance of multilingual education programsHow COVID-19 and inflation are magnifying disparities and stressors on familiesThe need for more investments in childcare, social safety nets, and community-based supportThe threat and potential rollback of critical federal and state programs due to policy shiftsStrategies for advocacy and coalition-building at the state levelTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island Kids Count and their mission02:06 - The importance of putting children at the top of the policy agenda03:43 - Key findings from the 2026 Rhode Island Kids Count Factbook04:10 - Child poverty and housing affordability crisis in Rhode Island05:13 - Ripple effects of unstable housing on children’s well-being06:42 - The true cost of living in Rhode Island—almost 100k needed to stay afloat07:33 - Education insights: progress vs. persistent gaps in early childhood and K-1208:46 - Supporting the whole child: addressing food insecurity and school readiness09:57 - Chronic absenteeism: causes, challenges, and the importance of data11:20 - Health coverage: progress, disparities, and threats from federal policy changes13:20 - Exposure to violence, domestic situations, and their impact on children14:06 - The state of maternal and infant health care; disparities by race15:31 - The vulnerability of immigrant children and families amid federal immigration policies16:48 - The importance of local data amid federal funding cuts18:41 - Strategies for advocacy and policy impact amidst political changes20:15 - Federal data reductions: implications for statewide policy and program planning22:54 - The rising needs of immigrant families for services like dual-language education and workforce support24:11 - Addressing data gaps and community engagement for better child outcomes25:37 - The recent legislative session and how coalitions influence policy for children27:33 - Upcoming challenges: the impact of federal policies like HR 1 on families29:16 - The importance of economic investments to sustain child benefit programs Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →RI Dem Party Decides Against Governor Endorsement
4w ago00:26:30Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →RI Gov Candidates Release TV Ads, Campaign Season Ramps Up: Mike Raia Joins. Inside Communications presented by Half Street Group
Jun 1800:35:52Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Mike Rea, president and founder of Half Street Group, shares insightful analysis of the current Rhode Island political landscape, focusing on campaign strategies, media influence, and voter engagement. Whether you're a political enthusiast, a strategy professional, or just curious about local elections, Mike offers a clear-eyed view into how campaigns are shaping up as election season heats up.Key topics covered:Early signs of campaign strategies from Rhode Island gubernatorial candidates.The increasing importance of media, ads, and public events in political communication.Why incumbents often take unconventional routes — and why that might backfire.The evolving role of local journalism and its impact on public awareness.How third-party and independent candidates are positioning themselves.Timing and resource allocation in election campaigns: when voters get engaged.The cultural impact of political personalities and the role of celebrity in local races.The influence of national politics, especially Trump's presence, on local election dynamics.Practical advice for mental and emotional balance for campaign professionals and voters.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the current Rhode Island political climate00:30 - The role of media and campaign ads in early election stages02:00 - Assessment of gubernatorial candidates’ messaging strategies03:30 - The effectiveness of attack ads and their impact on voters05:00 - Challenges faced by incumbents and opportunities for reintroduction06:30 - The influence of local journalism and the decline of political commentary08:00 - The presence (or absence) of political personalities and celebrity culture09:45 - The delayed start of campaign activity and voter engagement11:00 - The significance of candidate endorsements and grassroots support12:00 - The potential effect of third-party candidates in the race13:00 - The importance of timing in campaign spending and outreach15:00 - The slowing of political momentum in the context of national trends16:30 - The idea of political “baseball cards” to increase voter interest17:30 - Practical advice for maintaining personal well-being during campaign season19:00 - Closing thoughts on the future of Rhode Island's political media landscapeResources & Links: Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
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