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.
71episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Jason Knight is Running for Attorney General
May 1900:21:48Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Rhode Island State Representative Jason Knight discusses his motivation for running for Attorney General, emphasizing his extensive public service background, legislative experience, and dedication to protecting Rhode Islanders. He also shares insights on gun legislation, government transparency, and the importance of unwavering integrity in leadership.Key TopicsKnight’s motivations rooted in public service, military, and legal careersDifferentiating himself from other candidates based on track record and accountabilityThe significance of substance over tactics in the AG raceExperience from legislative work, especially in gun legislation and policy-makingThe role of the Attorney General as the "people's lawyer" with a focus on enforcement and leadershipInsights on maintaining independence and integrity in the officeChallenges posed by opponents attempting to undo gun laws and reinforce distrust in governmentThe relationship between the AG's office and issues of government transparency, ethics, and infrastructure oversightRhode Island’s unique environmental assets as a source of state pride and strengthTimestamps00:00 - Introduction and the importance of attention to Rhode Island’s attorney general race00:28 - Knight’s background: Navy veteran, prosecutor, legislator, and motivation for running01:27 - The race dynamics and what sets Knight apart from other credible candidates01:57 - Accountability, record, and leadership as key differentiators02:56 - The role of legislative experience in shaping law enforcement perspective03:22 - The attorney general’s role as the "people’s lawyer" and understanding government processes04:45 - Personal background, values, and public service ethos06:43 - The significance of gun legislation, campaign efforts, and past battles07:51 - Responding to opponents working to dismantle gun laws08:58 - The urgency of defending policies from political challenges10:13 - The "Nerona Doctrine" and the independence of the office10:43 - The potential for collaboration between the attorney general and inspector general roles14:00 - Addressing concerns about government corruption and transparency15:19 - Fighting elite insider culture and the importance of integrity in leadership16:16 - Protecting Rhode Island’s strengths: environment, beaches, healthcare, and education17:10 - The importance of political courage and decision-making in the office17:30 - What makes Rhode Island unique compared to other states18:29 - The critical role of the attorney general in overseeing public health and infrastructure19:24 - Closing remarks and appreciation for voter choiceResources & LinksJason Knight - LinkedInRhode Island General Assembly Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →PVD RENT: Councilor John Goncalves on Why He Voted No On Rent Stabilization, Housing Policy Ideas
May 1500:29:02Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThe Complexity of Rent Stabilization in Providence: A Deep Dive with Councilor John GonzalezIn this episode, we explore the nuanced debate surrounding rent stabilization in Providence, Rhode Island. Councilor John Gonzalez shares his insights on why the recent ordinance was paused, its potential implications, and the importance of thoughtful, data-driven policymaking in addressing housing affordability.Key topics:The difference between rent control and rent stabilization and what the Providence ordinance proposesThe unintended consequences and legal concerns associated with the policyThe role of independent analysis and stakeholder voices in shaping housing legislationHow local economic factors and federal policies influence housing affordability debatesThe importance of building more housing to effectively address displacement and rising rentsThe political dynamics behind the rapid progression of the ordinance and the upcoming city council voteStrategies for fostering collaborative solutions in a highly charged policy environmentTimestamps:00:00 - Providence City Council vote on rent stabilization override00:28 - Councilor Gonzalez’s personal background and motivation for voting no01:14 - The core goals of rent stabilization and initial proposals02:03 - Breakdown of the ordinance’s main provisions and targeted scope03:25 - Influential expert opinions and community concerns about the ordinance04:21 - Comparing Providence’s situation to New York City’s rent control system05:24 - Potential impacts on affordable housing development and stakeholder risks06:23 - Calls for independent legal and fiscal reviews before moving forward07:36 - The importance of increasing housing supply to meet demand08:42 - Addressing community fears of displacement amid rapid policy changes09:28 - The urgency of immediate relief measures versus long-term solutions10:20 - The financial implications of declining property values and tax revenue11:15 - Protecting homeowners and addressing displacement fears12:08 - Broader economic challenges impacting Providence residents13:00 - Councilor Gonzalez’s efforts to provide rent relief and combat predatory practices15:50 - The broader economic environment affecting housing costs16:33 - The risk of long-term displacement versus short-term relief17:17 - The quick legislative process and the need for careful analysis18:13 - Political motivations behind the ordinance’s rapid progression19:41 - The importance of collaboration and legal diligence in housing policy22:55 - The value of patience and comprehensive planning for major legislation24:36 - Call for ongoing dialogue to protect vulnerable residents and ensure fair policiesResources & Links:MIT Department of Economics – Professor Jonathan Gruber's work and viewsRhode Island Economic Policy Council (RIPEC) – Reports on Rhode Island’s economic situationProvidence City Council – Official site and updates on legislationConnect with Councilor John Gonzalez:LinkedInTwitterThis episode highlights the importance of balanced, well-researched policies in tackling housing affordability amid complex economic and political realities. Thoughtful dialogue and strategic policymaking are critical to protecting residents while fostering sustainable development. Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →Addressing the Mental Health Crisis: Insights from Rhode Island Experts
May 1400:24:08Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore the multifaceted state of mental health today, driven by post-pandemic challenges, systemic barriers, and evolving care models. Join us as mental health professionals from Rhode Island discuss innovative initiatives, the promise of integrated care, and the path toward a more accessible, stigma-free mental health system.Key Topics Covered:The impact of COVID-19 on mental health: isolation, uncertainty, and access issuesThe rise of awareness and its influence on diagnosis rates and help-seeking behaviorThe Open Mind Initiative: integrated behavioral health in primary care, especially for LGBTQ+ communitiesChallenges in widespread adoption of integrated health practices: funding, structural barriers, and policy hurdlesThe economic case for integrated mental health services: potential billions in savings and improved outcomesShifting towards proactive, preventive mental health approaches versus reactive treatment modelsThe evolving landscape of telehealth, AI, and technology in delivering behavioral health careHow education and reducing stigma can empower individuals to seek support earlyTimestamps:00:00 - The importance of mental health month amid a pandemic-driven crisis00:29 - Perspectives of experts on current mental health drivers and societal shifts01:40 - How COVID-19 exacerbated mental health issues through isolation and barriers02:10 - The societal impact of technological fracture and community support decline02:29 - Increased awareness and its impact on diagnosis and openness about mental health04:13 - Are we witnessing a cultural shift towards accepting mental health struggles?06:25 - The role of social media and online communities in mental health support07:40 - Strategies to normalize access and reduce stigma in behavioral health care08:48 - The genesis and scope of the Open Mind Initiative at Rhode Island's Open Door Health09:34 - Blueprint for integrating behavioral health into primary care settings11:20 - Funding challenges and advocacy efforts for embedded mental health services12:38 - Why integrated health models remain underutilized despite proven benefits14:19 - The financial and health outcomes of investing in preventive, integrated care15:36 - Systemic inertia: reactive health care vs. preventative investment16:49 - Lifelong impact of early behavioral health intervention across generations17:44 - Future prospects: Will integrated behavioral health become the norm?19:21 - Barriers to systemic change: funding, politics, and systemic inertia20:21 - What mental health professionals want the public to understand about their work21:00 - Dispelling stereotypes around psychiatry and emphasizing whole-person wellnessResources & Links:Open Door HealthRhode Island Public Health InstituteSAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam - AmazonConnect with the Experts:Jenny Tu - LinkedIn | TwitterDr. Paul Wallace - LinkedIn | Twitter Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →How Misunderstanding Our Strengths Could Keep Rhode Island in Economic Decline
May 1200:18:03Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailRhode Island's Economic Stagnation: Insights from RIPEC's Annual ReportIn this episode, we examine Rhode Island's economic challenges through the lens of RIPEC's latest report, addressing key issues like stagnating growth, over-reliance on certain sectors, and potential pathways forward. Michael DeBias, RIPEC's president and CEO, shares data-driven insights and practical strategies for revitalization.Main topics:The current state of Rhode Island's economic indicatorsLong-term challenges and sector relianceThe impact of housing policies and workforce developmentStrategies for fostering sustainable growth and improving affordabilityThe importance of gradual, environment-driven incentives over quick fixesIn this episode:Rhode Island ranks 17th in median household income but falls to 36th when factoring in cost of living and taxesLagging growth in GDP per capita and labor productivity, with Rhode Island trailing behind national averagesExisting over-reliance on education, healthcare, and social services, which do not bring substantial revenue into the stateThe blue economy and emerging sectors like wind energy and autonomous tech remain underdevelopedPolicy focus should shift from chasing companies to creating an environment that attracts and sustains themOpposition to rent stabilization policies, emphasizing supply-side solutions such as permitting and development incentivesA cautious yet hopeful outlook, with DeBias rating his optimism at a 5 out of 10Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island's economic stagnation and report overview00:35 - Rhode Island's relative strengths and its position compared to other states01:21 - The importance of understanding scope before identifying solutions02:17 - The disparities in median income versus cost of living and taxes03:38 - Contextualizing Rhode Island’s economic challenges within broader trends04:53 - Overview of declining GDP per capita and labor productivity05:42 - Long-term sector trends and underperformance of key industries like blue economy07:20 - Over-reliance on low-wealth sectors and workforce gaps08:53 - The need for sector growth, particularly in manufacturing and information tech09:50 - Gaps in workforce skills and barriers to attracting larger companies11:08 - Strategies for economic growth—regulation easing, tax incentives, workforce upskilling12:34 - Housing policy debates, rent stabilization, and supply-side solutions14:57 - Rhode Island’s future outlook and DeBias's optimism score16:02 - Closing remarks and key takeawaysResources & Links:RIPEC Annual ReportRhode Island Public Expenditures CouncilGina Raimondo - LinkedInRhode Island Commerce CorporationConnect with Michael DeBias:LinkedInTwitterThis episode emphasizes that recognising areas of stagnation is the first step towards meaningful economic renewal. Strategic focus on fostering high-growth sectors, improving workforce skills, and adopting supply-side housing policies can steer Rhode Island toward a more resilient future. Stay tuned for actionable insights grounded in solid data and experienced leadership. Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →Shekarchi to Supreme Court? + Much More with Ian Donnis
May 700:17:36Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →newportFILM presents Maria Bamford Documentary
May 500:08:44Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into the fascinating process behind the documentary "Paralyzed by Hope," which unpacks Maria Bamford's journey through mental health, grief, and resilience. Neil Berkeley, co-director, shares insights on storytelling choices, the impact of environment on mental health, and the power of comedy to reveal life's hardest truths.Key Topics:The spontaneous, journalistic approach to filming and editing without music to maintain authenticityHow stand-up comedy serves as a gateway to revealing personal stories and universal truthsThe interplay between environmental factors like wildfires and mental health in storytellingArtistic transformation of grief into shared human experience and community supportThe challenges and strategies behind making an intimate documentary about a public figureTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the film "Paralyzed by Hope" and screening details00:25 - Insights into Neil Berkeley's entry into the project and initial ideas01:12 - Behind the spontaneous filming process with Maria Bamford02:15 - The intentional decision to shoot without soundtrack and melodramatic influence03:05 - The role of music and how its absence shapes the film's tone04:17 - Exploring themes of grief, mental health, and comedy's cathartic power05:25 - Setting scenes in universal moments like wildfire aftermath to discuss climate and community06:27 - The unpredictable nature of documentary storytelling and real-life events07:55 - Screening details and future availability of the filmResources & Links:Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story – Screening details and moreMaria Bamford – Connect with MariaJudd Apatow – Collaborator and producer insightsConnect with Neil Berkeley:TwitterWebsitehttps://newportfilm.com/films/paralyzed-by-hope-the-maria-bamford-story/Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →Small Business and Job Creation in Rhode Island: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth
Apr 3000:16:20Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailSmall Business and Job Creation in Rhode Island: A Strategy for Sustainable GrowthGUESTS:Nina Pande, Skills RIMatt Spoehr, SBAJim Cohill, Bank NewportThis episode explores the critical role of small businesses in Rhode Island's economic landscape. Featuring insights from leaders across banking, workforce development, and government, it emphasizes collaborative efforts to foster job growth, access to capital, and entrepreneurial success that benefits the entire community.In this episode:The importance of small business in Rhode Island’s job creation goals and how it shapes economic policyKey initiatives like the Small Business Summit and their role in workforce upskilling and resource sharingHow local financial institutions humanize lending processes to support new and existing entrepreneursThe significance of regional thinking and cross-sector collaboration for scalable business growthChallenges faced by small businesses, including access to funding, technology adoption, and navigating government contractsThe upcoming Small Business Week and the Rhode Island Small Business Summit as vital opportunities for networking and developmentPractical advice from banking and SBA representatives on reducing barriers and demystifying financial resourcesWhy investing in small businesses is essential for sustainable, inclusive economic growth in Rhode IslandTimestamps:00:00 - Overview of Rhode Island's job creation efforts and small business importance00:30 - Introducing the panel and their roles in economic development01:22 - The vital contribution of small businesses and individual proprietors01:33 - Jim Cohill discusses commercial lending and support for small businesses02:11 - The interconnectedness of public and private sector efforts in job growth02:33 - Matt Spear on SBA programs and resource partnerships03:19 - The challenge of small business growth and the upcoming Small Business Week events03:49 - The significance of connecting ideas, funding, and workforce support04:05 - Nina Pande on adult workforce upskilling and technology modernization in small companies05:29 - The role of free resources and community outreach in easing entrepreneurial fears06:36 - Jim’s perspective on humanizing banking and supporting business start-ups07:03 - Jim on the importance of transparent conversations for new entrepreneurs08:03 - The need for broader awareness of available resources and government contracting opportunities09:16 - Fight the intimidation: humanizing banking to unlock small business potential10:38 - The role of small business in Rhode Island’s economic future, not just reliance on large firms12:09 - How developing small businesses supports regional growth and job creation13:09 - Opportunities for small and mid-sized firms in the regional economy14:48 - The collaborative spirit needed among Rhode Island’s businesses and institutions15:14 - The upcoming Small Business Summit as a platform to network and leverage resources16:06 - Closing remarks emphasizing community and support for entrepreneursResources & Links:SkillsRI - Skills for an Island's FutureBank Newport[U.S. Small Business Administration Rhode Island District Office](https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/district/ri)Rhode Island Small BSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →An Unlikely Coalition To Combat Ecological Disaster
Apr 2900:11:33Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailUnveiling Climate Storytelling: The Power of Coalition and CommunicationThis episode explores how documentary filmmaking can illuminate environmental crises and foster coalition-building across diverse worlds — from scientists and religious leaders to policymakers and journalists. Abby Ellis, director of The Lake, shares insights on addressing complex ecological issues through compelling narratives that bridge ideological divides.In this episode:The importance of coalition-building in tackling environmental crisesHow different ideological worlds can converge on shared goalsStrategies for communicating climate science to skepticsThe significance of portraying multi-dimensional characters in environmental storytellingThe urgency of global ecological issues and timely solutionsThe role of religion and science in uniting communities around environmental stewardshipPractical approaches for engaging hesitant audiences in climate conversationsExample of empowering narratives from The Lake and real-world activismTimestamps:00:00 - Overview of upcoming screening of The Lake and its significance00:30 - Introduction to Abby Ellis and the film’s core themes01:16 - The role of coalition-building in environmental activism01:54 - How bipartisan efforts emerged in Utah’s ecological crisis02:22 - Environmental issues as human, not just political, concerns02:50 - The urgency of the Great Salt Lake’s potential disaster03:28 - The importance of immediate coalition-building for climate resilience03:44 - How the film emphasizes the immediacy of ecological threats04:12 - Lessons from Utah’s crisis for the broader climate movement04:40 - The impact of united communities across political and religious divides05:09 - The significance of diverse moral and ideological convergences05:25 - The role of religious perspectives, like Mormon stewardship, in environmental advocacy05:52 - The power of religious and scientific values coexisting in activism06:27 - Communicating climate science to skeptical audiences effectively07:37 - The importance of understanding different cultural triggers for environmental messaging08:17 - How to speak to people in terms they understand, beyond politicized language08:42 - Upcoming screening details and community engagement opportunities09:05 - Future broadcasting plans and broader reach for The LakeResources & Links:The Lake - Official Website (Check for updates and broadcast releases)EcoRI News – Rhode Island’s leading environmental news sourceAct on Climate - Rhode Island – Local climate legislation and activismSundance Film Festival – Premier platform for the film’s debutConnect with Abby Ellis:TwitterInstagram Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →PVD RENT: Council President Rachel Miller
Apr 2800:15:16Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailTitle: Providence Rent Stabilization Debate: Insights from City Council President Rachel MillerThis episode delves into the complex political and social dynamics surrounding rent stabilization in Providence, Rhode Island. City Council President Rachel Miller shares her perspective on the ongoing debate, the influence of special interests, and the urgent need to prioritize residents' survival amid a soaring housing crisis.Key Topics: The current state of Providence's rent stabilization proposals and the political stalemate The impact of rent hikes on long-term residents and the city’s future How misinformation campaigns by corporate landlords complicate policy discussions The importance of effective communication and community engagement in shaping policy The broader national and global context influencing local housing debates The significance of building support within the council and navigating opposition The potential for rent stabilization to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions The political implications of current debates for upcoming elections The role of advocacy and community voices in influencing policy outcomes Timestamps: 00:00 - Overview of rent stabilization controversy in Providence 00:31 - Council efforts to build support and address community concerns 01:05 - Personal stories illustrating housing affordability crisis 01:47 - Likelihood of political shifts among council members 02:02 - Addressing the information gap and communicating carve-outs 02:51 - Influence of corporate interests and misinformation campaigns 03:38 - Community engagement and correcting myths 04:47 - Outsized influence of corporate landlords on policy 05:17 - The city's survival and the impact of external networks 05:57 - The long-term decline of residents and housing stress 06:16 - Balancing growth with protection of existing residents 07:08 - The global and national context of housing issues 07:35 - The urgency of implementing bold policies despite imperfections 08:11 - The political reality and support from renters 08:48 - Evidence suggesting regulation does not harm construction 09:14 - The threat of well-funded interests stopping progressive policies 09:46 - The historical opposition from mayoral leadership10:19 - Building a political roadmap and election implications10:49 - Ongoing efforts to engage different viewpoints11:16 - Attempts to strengthen and improve legislation12:05 - The significance of the initial council approval and upcoming electoral accountability12:54 - Final thoughts on potential political shifts and the future of rent stabilizationResources & Links:Rachel Miller - Providence City Council PresidentAdditional insights on rent control policies: National Low Income Housing CoalitionRelated discussion on urban housing debates: Bartholomew Town PodcastConnect with Rachel Miller:LinkedInTwitterWould you like to generate a blog post or social media content next? Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
Transcribe →RI Political Developments - Dan McGowan (Boston Globe) Joins Bartholomew
Apr 2300:39:18Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →