As the nation's food supply gets hit with more challenges, from parasite outbreaks to recalls, consumers are re-evaluating their shopping habits. Many are turning to local farmers for safer and more reliable options, support local producers say they're thrilled to have. Warren Shaw, the owner of Shaw Farm in Dracut and president of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau, joins Nichole this week to talk about the importance of supporting local farmers and the benefits of having a safe and reliable food supply in your community.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Haley House has come a long way since it opened up 60 years ago in Boston's South End. Today, it offers a range of services, including affordable housing, an urban farm, a soup kitchen, and a bakery cafe. But it's not just about providing food; it's about addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty. Executive Director Reggie Jean talks with Nichole this week about their commitment to building community, security, and trust in the South End and Lower Roxbury neighborhoods.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the new school year gets underway, educators and students are gearing up for a fresh start, but behind the scenes, schools are facing a one-two punch of budget cuts and rising costs. Educators are often left to dip into their own pockets to stock their classrooms. The state is stepping in with a new initiative to offer some relief for educators and child care providers who already give so much to help the kids in their lives. Education Secretary Dr. Stephen Zrike talks with Nichole about the Educator Discounts Directory and how the state is working on solutions to address fiscal challenges impacting our school districts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many people head to the Berkshires to retire and live out their golden years. Soon, at the Berkshire Farm Sanctuary in Peru, founder Dori Scofield wants to make it possible for senior pups to come to the Berkshires to do the same thing! The team at the sanctuary is working hard on the "Old Dog Inn", a safe, loving shelter solely for senior dogs that need a warm bed, roaring fireplace, and big yard to settle down in for their final years. Dori joins Nichole this week to share stories from her decades dedicated to animal rescue and talk about how you can help this new shelter become a reality.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our AC's and sump pumps have been getting quite the workout this summer, but have you ever wondered what's going on behind the scenes at our power grid to ensure it can continue to meet our growing demand for electricity? This week, Nichole's joined by Mary Cate Colapietro, Senior Communications Specialist for ISO New England, to break down a new report that provides a comprehensive look at the region's energy landscape, from the impact of AI data centers to the role of renewable resources and beyond.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The timeless art of boat building is alive and well in Essex at the Essex Shipbuilding Museum! Now, the museum's offering a unique opportunity for you to learn the very same skills and traditions that have been revered for generations on the North Shore. By the end of the class, you'll have your very own boat to enjoy for years to come, made with your own two hands with help from experts. Executive Director K.D. Montgomery joins Nichole this week to talk about the museum's storied history and this special chance to join their mission to preserve this historic art.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dedham-based Three Squares New England is gearing up for its 15th annual fundraising event to combat food insecurity in the Greater Boston area. The need is greater than ever to ensure funding comes in for their network of over 38 partner organizations, including food pantries, community farms, and food recovery initiatives. Marena Burnett, Executive Director of Three Squares New England, shares all the details about this year's Ride and Stride for Food with Nichole this week, along with information on how you can get involved, even if you don't want to bike or walk!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Labor Day approaches, the Greater Boston Labor Council is gearing up for its second annual parade in the city's Back Bay, and this year's event promises to be just as vibrant and groundbreaking as the first. Darlene Lombos, President of the Greater Boston Labor Council, says this year's event in Copley Square will celebrate worker power, challenge corporate greed, and focus on getting out the vote. Darlene returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the resurrection of Boston's Labor Day parades, the efforts of the labor movement to connect with workers locally, and how you can get involved in the festivities.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While millions of Americans either rely on Social Security for their retirement, millions more hope it will be solvent and available for them when it's time for them to make the transition. No matter how old you are, there are resources out there, especially online, to help you navigate the system and make the most of your benefits as you plan for your future. The trouble is, new research shows many Americans don't know how to access them. Bill Sweeney, the Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for AARP in Washington, stops by the show this week to talk about this research with Nichole and offer some valuable advice on how you can get connected.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.