Aired Out

This is more than a podcast "episode" each Wednesday - it’s a movement creating real change where it matters most.


This morning on the show, my guest was Winton Buddington from Sweethearts & Heroes, an organization that’s changing lives in a powerful way, inside (and outside) our schools.

We talk about CIRCLE - A powerful practice that brings students together, literally in a circle, to build communication, trust, and understanding through shared conversation.

We talk about Pat Fish - a BRAVE and Circle Specialist with Sweethearts and Heroes who has spent the past year working directly with students in Malone NY thanks to the support and sponsorship of a local car dealership - Ellis Chevrolet . The mission is simple and critical: prevent hopelessness, bullying, and suicide by building a culture rooted in empathy, compassion, and teamwork.

Through engaging, student-centered programs, Sweethearts & Heroes gives young people the tools they need to connect, support one another, and take action.

This morning on Aired Out, I was joined by Cassandra Bickford, who stopped by to talk about an incredible opportunity for a local Destination Imagination team heading to Globals. Destination Imagination is a unique program that blends STEAM and theater, challenging students to think creatively, problem-solve, and bring their ideas to life on stage. From writing and acting to building their own costumes, props, and backdrops, these students do it all themselves. Cassie shared how their team’s performance, centered around a creative story involving plant characters, earned them a spot at the Global Finals, an international competition that brings together top teams from around the world. Now, the focus turns to fundraising. Traveling to Globals is a huge opportunity, but it comes with significant costs. The team is actively working to raise the money needed to make the trip and represent our community on the world stage. If you’re looking to support local students, creativity, and hard work, this is a great cause to get behind.

If you’d like to support these students and help them represent Vermont on the world stage, you can donate here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-vermont-di-team-reach-globals-for-the-first-time?attribution_id=sl:3090b836-774d-4032-97ff-b3b39bccc75a&lang=en_US&ts=1776122126&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_content=amp17_td&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Chris Neville - Sweethearts & Heroes

Brian Gallagher, President and General Manager of the Vermont Mountaineers, was the guest on Aired Out this morning, getting Central Vermont fired up for Season #24 at Montpelier’s Recreation Field. From former players who have gone on to the big leagues to a look at the current roster, Gallagher covered it all. He also gave a well-deserved shout-out to the coaches, staff, volunteers, sponsors, players, and loyal fans who have helped make the Mountaineers a true staple in the community for decades. The need for host families is strong this season. Anyone interested in opening their home to a player is encouraged to call Hannah at 802-498-5562.

Heather Bent and Brad Griffin from Potter’s Angels Rescue bringing some excitement to Central Vermont, drawing the winning names in their latest raffle to benefit the shelter and the animals they care for every single day. This isn’t just about prizes, it’s about second chances. Every ticket sold helps provide food, medical care, and safe shelter for animals waiting for their forever homes right here in our community. Heather and Brad, longtime advocates for rescue animals, continuing to show what grassroots effort and heart can do, turning community support into real impact for pets in need. And to everyone who bought a ticket, spread the word, or supports Potter’s Angels, this moment belongs to you too.

Longtime Central Vermont real estate broker and business owner John Bionolillo and his real estate company, BCK Real Estate, has deep roots in Central Vermont, especially Barre

It doesn't matter if you're a first-time buyer, seller, investor, executive - John and his team have worked with all walks of life. And their experience speaks for itself. BCK has shifted focus in recent years to concentrate more heavily on Vermont communities rather than expanding out of state. They're known for their high level of personal appoach, market knowledge and discretion, negotiation experience, and high-end transactions. 

Today John talks housing in Vermont, the need for new construction, market impacts from the war in Iran and showcases the local market trends and what's being offered right now in Central Vermont.

Sweethearts & Heroes Day, every Wednesday on Aired Out, continues this morning with a powerful and meaningful conversation. Today’s guest is Jeffrey Smith, Sheriff of Montgomery County, New York. As a School Resource Officer, Sheriff Smith shows up in schools each day with a simple but impactful message, HOPE is real, and it lives within every one of us. He reminds students, teachers, and even his fellow law enforcement officers to always remember, Hold On, Possibilities Exist. Through face-to-face circle sessions with both students and members of law enforcement, he continues to demonstrate what it means to lead with positivity, no matter the challenges life may bring. This is more than a conversation, it is a reminder that connection, resilience, and hope still matter.

Big show today on Aired Out!


Cristina Willey joins us to talk about the Brittany Burt Memorial Bingo happening this Sunday in Williamstown, a great community event you won’t want to miss.


Noah Payette checks in with everything you need to know about Barre Town Co-Ed Softball and how to get involved this season as both a player AND a sponsor!


Plus, Rex Thompson is gearing up to present a special blue belt and gives us a preview of what to expect on May 2nd at the DoubleTree in South Burlington for Donnybrook Fight Promotions’ “The Reckoning – Art of Eight Limbs.”


Local voices, community stories, and a packed lineup this morning! THANK YOU GUESTS AND VIEWERS !