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In this episode, Rhode Island General Treasurer James Diossa shares insights into the state’s investment approach, innovative housing programs, cybersecurity priorities, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming FIFA World Cup events. This conversation offers a detailed look at how state leadership balances risk, supports communities, and leverages global events for local economic growth.

Main topics:

• The state’s investment strategy and private credit risks
• The Rhode Island Anchor Mortgage Program for first-time homebuyers
• Cybersecurity measures protecting state and pension data
• Rhode Island’s preparation for the World Cup and its economic impact
• The importance of balancing risk and opportunity in public investments

Key insights:

• Rhode Island’s pension fund has grown from $10 billion to over $13 billion, with an emphasis on maintaining stability and disciplined risk management.
• Private credit exposure has remained steady at 3% for a decade, reflecting cautious risk tolerance aligned with the fund’s long-term goals.
• The Rhode Island Anchor Mortgage Program has helped hundreds of first-time buyers with affordable, fixed-rate mortgages, revitalizing communities.
• Cybersecurity is a top priority, with dedicated staff and annual assessments, especially as financial systems become more vulnerable to emerging threats and AI-based vulnerabilities.
• The World Cup is expected to boost local tourism and business activity, with multiple events across Rhode Island planned to celebrate the global tournament.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome back and last appearance recap
00:17 - Overview of Rhode Island’s current financial standing
00:31 - Investment strategy and fund growth
01:12 - Focus on pension member experience and cybersecurity
01:38 - Challenges and opportunities in private credit investments
02:25 - Maintaining a steady private credit allocation over the years
03:22 - Balancing higher return ambitions with risk tolerance
03:45 - Strategies for achieving funded status targets
05:13 - The importance of disciplined risk management and fiduciary responsibility
05:43 - Rhode Island Anchor Mortgage Program details and community impact
06:12 - How the program supports first-time homebuyers
08:09 - The critical role of cybersecurity and recent advancements
09:14 - State’s cybersecurity efforts and annual assessments
10:25 - Rhode Island’s FIFA World Cup bid and event planning
11:12 - Economic impact and community engagement during the World Cup
12:08 - Key events, watch parties, and international team visits
13:34 - Final thoughts on summer events and local economic boost

Resources & Links:

• Rhode Island Treasurer’s Office
• Rhode Island Anchor Mortgage Program
• Moody’s Credit Ratings
• FIFA World Cup 2026

Connect with James Diossa:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

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This episode dives into the enduring philosophies behind Deer Tick's approach to music, the importance of storytelling rooted in shared communities, and how the band balances artistic integrity with modern industry pressures. It’s a conversation about meaningful artistry over fleeting trends, and why taking your time creates deeper impact.

Key topics:

• The significance of Rhode Island and its history in Deer Tick's identity and songwriting
• Why Deer Tick prefers conceptual albums and long development cycles over frequent singles
• The impact of social media and algorithms on how bands promote music today
• The value of creating a lasting catalog versus chasing quick hits
• How parenthood influences songwriting and the emotional depth of music
• The evolution of the music industry from demo tapes to digital algorithms
• The importance of live testing material to refine songs
• Why taking the long view in music production leads to more meaningful art
• The parallels between classic artists’ longevity and Deer Tick’s approach

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Deer Tick's new album Koinomatic and its Rhode Island roots
• 00:54 - The historical significance of the "Coinomatic" mob headquarters and its influence on album art
• 01:41 - Reflection on themes of places and people that are gone in local and personal history
• 02:24 - Connecting past experiences and local characters to song writing
• 03:08 - The role of stories from neighborhood life and criminal elements in songwriting
• 03:57 - Audience interpretation and biographical references in Deer Tick’s music
• 04:32 - The importance of shared working-class roots and cultural memory
• 05:13 - Discussion on the current landscape for bands in 2026 and indie music trends
• 05:59 - Challenges for new bands starting today compared to 20 years ago
• 06:51 - The influence of TikTok, algorithms, and social media on music promotion
• 07:46 - The trade-off between algorithmic exposure and authentic artistic expression
• 08:22 - The significance of making albums with a cohesive vision over singles
• 09:00 - The band’s long-term cycle approach versus quick, frequent releases
• 09:48 - How band dynamics and collaboration shape the creative process
• 10:09 - Parenthood’s impact on songwriting, emotional depth, and touring
• 11:20 - A band member’s son experiencing their music and the joy of sharing that journey
• 12:13 - The longstanding cycle of Deer Tick’s album releases since 2007
• 12:59 - Advice on balancing disciplined long-term projects versus the fast pace of social media
• 13:50 - The importance of piecing together full albums and thematic cohesion
• 14:22 - The critique of constant single releases as impulsive and superficial
• 15:24 - The value of road-testing songs live to improve and connect with audiences
• 16:46 - The significance of albums as complete statements rather than fleeting singles
• 17:30 - The deep satisfaction of exploring an artist’s catalog over decades
• 18:40 - Closing thoughts on creating lasting music that captures a moment in time
• 18:46 - Final band shoutout and closing humor

Resources & Links:

• Deer Tick - Official Website

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This episode dives into the often overlooked dimension of homelessness—doubling up—and its profound impact on housing insecurity. Molly Richard, Assistant Professor of Public Health at the University of Rhode Island, sheds light on how hidden homelessness skews data, affects policy, and requires targeted solutions.

In this episode:

• What doubling up is and how it differs from traditional definitions of homelessness.
• The challenges in measuring hidden homelessness and the true scale of the crisis.
• How current federal policies exclude doubling up, impacting eligibility for aid.
• The connection between economic factors like unemployment and rent costs with doubling up.
• The importance of broad, multi-pronged strategies to prevent and respond to hidden homelessness.
• The role of housing affordability, rapid policy innovation, and community-based approaches.
• Why understanding and addressing doubling up is critical to reducing overall homelessness.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to hidden homelessness and the concept of doubling up

00:27 - Defining doubling up and how it fits into broader homelessness issues

01:24 - The measurement and reporting challenges of doubling up phenomena

02:49 - The real number of doubled-up households and its implication on state figures

03:43 - Impact of federal definitions on homelessness aid eligibility

04:55 - The financial human cost and policy gaps caused by exclusion of doubling up

05:34 - How community data and census estimates reveal the scale of doubling up

06:41 - The connection between structural economic conditions and doubling up

07:39 - Factors influencing who doubles up and regional differences in service access

09:51 - How previous living situations predict future homelessness and prevention opportunities

10:28 - The four-prong strategy for tackling hidden homelessness

11:20 - The importance of flexible, local response systems beyond federal definitions

12:46 - The essential role of affordable housing, economic stability, and innovation

13:35 - The broader economic context influencing housing insecurity and solutions from policymakers

15:37 - Emerging housing solutions like modular homes and zoning considerations

17:07 - Balancing quality and rapid construction in addressing the housing crisis

18:13 - The danger of ignoring hidden homelessness in policy and public perception

19:24 - How research should inform policy to prevent crises before they escalate

20:26 - The significance of early intervention and data tracking for long-term impact

21:02 - The influence of cultural conversations, including pop culture, on understanding homelessness

21:58 - Building on community dialogue to address housing as a spectrum of need

22:03 - Closing thoughts and the importance of expertise in policymaking

Resources & Links:

• Journal of Urban Affairs - Community Level Predictors of Doubling Up
• US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
• Rhode Island Housing Data & Analysis
• Population and Housing Census Data
• Echo Village Modular Housing Pilot (Note: Placeholder link)

Connect with Molly Richard:

• University of Rhode Island - Professor Molly Richard

Notable Quote:

"Addressing hidden homelessness requires understanding the spectrum of living situations—because when we ignore the unseen, we underestimate the true scale of the crisis."

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Exploring Grassroots Activism, Private Prisons, and the Future of Music with B. Dolan.

In this episode, B. Dolan, a veteran artist and grassroots activist, shares insights on his recent activism work, the troubling landscape of private immigration detention centers, and the evolving challenges facing independent artists. His perspective bridges the worlds of community organizing, policy reform, and cultural production, offering a comprehensive view of what it truly means to be a cultural worker today.

Main Topics Covered:

• B. Dolan’s shift from touring to grassroots organizing post-health challenges

• The fight against private ICE detention centers, specifically the Wyatt in Rhode Island

• How artists can leverage their platforms for advocacy and change

• The impact of privatization on community safety and human rights

• The evolving landscape of independent music, AI’s threat, and community-based scenes

• Strategies for empowering local communities and rebuilding DIY networks

Timestamps: 00:00 - B. Dolan’s work on the ground post-touring career shift
02:37 - Role of artists in activism and community engagement
04:59 - Overview of ICE detention in Rhode Island and the Wyatt's conditions
06:53 - The private ownership and lack of oversight in ICE detention centers
08:48 - Historical incidents like Jason Ng’s death and ongoing issues in private prisons
11:27 - Legislative efforts to prohibit ICE private prison contracts in Rhode Island
12:29 - Underreported community issues and the importance of local journalism
14:34 - The chaos at courthouses and the need for protective legislation
22:26 - Challenges faced by artists with AI and digital distribution
23:54 - The decline of touring and opportunities through community-based music scenes
25:22 - The importance of local DIY scenes and resurgence of community-organized music events
29:36 - The role of art in shaping society, resisting commercial exploitation, and building solidarity
31:15 - The significance of artist-led networks and infrastructure for sustainable scenes
33:11 - How to connect with B. Dolan and support ongoing activism effortsResources & Links:

• Glaring Type-O Records

• AMOR Network

• Imbdolan.com - B. Dolan's official site

• The Artists Must Take Sides - People's Forum class

Connect with B. Dolan:

• Instagram

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In 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 Topics

• Knight’s motivations rooted in public service, military, and legal careers
• Differentiating himself from other candidates based on track record and accountability
• The significance of substance over tactics in the AG race
• Experience from legislative work, especially in gun legislation and policy-making
• The role of the Attorney General as the "people's lawyer" with a focus on enforcement and leadership
• Insights on maintaining independence and integrity in the office
• Challenges posed by opponents attempting to undo gun laws and reinforce distrust in government
• The relationship between the AG's office and issues of government transparency, ethics, and infrastructure oversight
• Rhode Island’s unique environmental assets as a source of state pride and strength

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction and the importance of attention to Rhode Island’s attorney general race

00:28 - Knight’s background: Navy veteran, prosecutor, legislator, and motivation for running

01:27 - The race dynamics and what sets Knight apart from other credible candidates

01:57 - Accountability, record, and leadership as key differentiators

02:56 - The role of legislative experience in shaping law enforcement perspective

03:22 - The attorney general’s role as the "people’s lawyer" and understanding government processes

04:45 - Personal background, values, and public service ethos

06:43 - The significance of gun legislation, campaign efforts, and past battles

07:51 - Responding to opponents working to dismantle gun laws

08:58 - The urgency of defending policies from political challenges

10:13 - The "Nerona Doctrine" and the independence of the office

10:43 - The potential for collaboration between the attorney general and inspector general roles

14:00 - Addressing concerns about government corruption and transparency

15:19 - Fighting elite insider culture and the importance of integrity in leadership

16:16 - Protecting Rhode Island’s strengths: environment, beaches, healthcare, and education

17:10 - The importance of political courage and decision-making in the office

17:30 - What makes Rhode Island unique compared to other states

18:29 - The critical role of the attorney general in overseeing public health and infrastructure

19:24 - Closing remarks and appreciation for voter choice

Resources & Links

• Jason Knight - LinkedIn
• Rhode Island General Assembly

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The Complexity of Rent Stabilization in Providence: A Deep Dive with Councilor John Gonzalez

In 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 proposes
• The unintended consequences and legal concerns associated with the policy
• The role of independent analysis and stakeholder voices in shaping housing legislation
• How local economic factors and federal policies influence housing affordability debates
• The importance of building more housing to effectively address displacement and rising rents
• The political dynamics behind the rapid progression of the ordinance and the upcoming city council vote
• Strategies for fostering collaborative solutions in a highly charged policy environment

Timestamps:

00:00 - Providence City Council vote on rent stabilization override

00:28 - Councilor Gonzalez’s personal background and motivation for voting no

01:14 - The core goals of rent stabilization and initial proposals

02:03 - Breakdown of the ordinance’s main provisions and targeted scope

03:25 - Influential expert opinions and community concerns about the ordinance

04:21 - Comparing Providence’s situation to New York City’s rent control system

05:24 - Potential impacts on affordable housing development and stakeholder risks

06:23 - Calls for independent legal and fiscal reviews before moving forward

07:36 - The importance of increasing housing supply to meet demand

08:42 - Addressing community fears of displacement amid rapid policy changes

09:28 - The urgency of immediate relief measures versus long-term solutions

10:20 - The financial implications of declining property values and tax revenue

11:15 - Protecting homeowners and addressing displacement fears

12:08 - Broader economic challenges impacting Providence residents

13:00 - Councilor Gonzalez’s efforts to provide rent relief and combat predatory practices

15:50 - The broader economic environment affecting housing costs

16:33 - The risk of long-term displacement versus short-term relief

17:17 - The quick legislative process and the need for careful analysis

18:13 - Political motivations behind the ordinance’s rapid progression

19:41 - The importance of collaboration and legal diligence in housing policy

22:55 - The value of patience and comprehensive planning for major legislation

24:36 - Call for ongoing dialogue to protect vulnerable residents and ensure fair policies

Resources & Links:

• MIT Department of Economics – Professor Jonathan Gruber's work and views
• Rhode Island Economic Policy Council (RIPEC) – Reports on Rhode Island’s economic situation
• Providence City Council – Official site and updates on legislation

Connect with Councilor John Gonzalez:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

This 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.

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In 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 issues
• The rise of awareness and its influence on diagnosis rates and help-seeking behavior
• The Open Mind Initiative: integrated behavioral health in primary care, especially for LGBTQ+ communities
• Challenges in widespread adoption of integrated health practices: funding, structural barriers, and policy hurdles
• The economic case for integrated mental health services: potential billions in savings and improved outcomes
• Shifting towards proactive, preventive mental health approaches versus reactive treatment models
• The evolving landscape of telehealth, AI, and technology in delivering behavioral health care
• How education and reducing stigma can empower individuals to seek support early

Timestamps:
00:00 - The importance of mental health month amid a pandemic-driven crisis

00:29 - Perspectives of experts on current mental health drivers and societal shifts

01:40 - How COVID-19 exacerbated mental health issues through isolation and barriers

02:10 - The societal impact of technological fracture and community support decline

02:29 - Increased awareness and its impact on diagnosis and openness about mental health

04:13 - Are we witnessing a cultural shift towards accepting mental health struggles?

06:25 - The role of social media and online communities in mental health support

07:40 - Strategies to normalize access and reduce stigma in behavioral health care

08:48 - The genesis and scope of the Open Mind Initiative at Rhode Island's Open Door Health

09:34 - Blueprint for integrating behavioral health into primary care settings

11:20 - Funding challenges and advocacy efforts for embedded mental health services

12:38 - Why integrated health models remain underutilized despite proven benefits

14:19 - The financial and health outcomes of investing in preventive, integrated care

15:36 - Systemic inertia: reactive health care vs. preventative investment

16:49 - Lifelong impact of early behavioral health intervention across generations

17:44 - Future prospects: Will integrated behavioral health become the norm?

19:21 - Barriers to systemic change: funding, politics, and systemic inertia

20:21 - What mental health professionals want the public to understand about their work

21:00 - Dispelling stereotypes around psychiatry and emphasizing whole-person wellness

Resources & Links:

• Open Door Health
• Rhode Island Public Health Institute
• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
• Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam - Amazon

Connect with the Experts:

• Jenny Tu - LinkedIn | Twitter
• Dr. Paul Wallace - LinkedIn | Twitter

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Rhode Island's Economic Stagnation: Insights from RIPEC's Annual Report

In 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 indicators
• Long-term challenges and sector reliance
• The impact of housing policies and workforce development
• Strategies for fostering sustainable growth and improving affordability
• The importance of gradual, environment-driven incentives over quick fixes

In this episode:

• Rhode Island ranks 17th in median household income but falls to 36th when factoring in cost of living and taxes
• Lagging growth in GDP per capita and labor productivity, with Rhode Island trailing behind national averages
• Existing over-reliance on education, healthcare, and social services, which do not bring substantial revenue into the state
• The blue economy and emerging sectors like wind energy and autonomous tech remain underdeveloped
• Policy focus should shift from chasing companies to creating an environment that attracts and sustains them
• Opposition to rent stabilization policies, emphasizing supply-side solutions such as permitting and development incentives
• A cautious yet hopeful outlook, with DeBias rating his optimism at a 5 out of 10

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island's economic stagnation and report overview

00:35 - Rhode Island's relative strengths and its position compared to other states

01:21 - The importance of understanding scope before identifying solutions

02:17 - The disparities in median income versus cost of living and taxes

03:38 - Contextualizing Rhode Island’s economic challenges within broader trends

04:53 - Overview of declining GDP per capita and labor productivity

05:42 - Long-term sector trends and underperformance of key industries like blue economy

07:20 - Over-reliance on low-wealth sectors and workforce gaps

08:53 - The need for sector growth, particularly in manufacturing and information tech

09:50 - Gaps in workforce skills and barriers to attracting larger companies

11:08 - Strategies for economic growth—regulation easing, tax incentives, workforce upskilling

12:34 - Housing policy debates, rent stabilization, and supply-side solutions

14:57 - Rhode Island’s future outlook and DeBias's optimism score

16:02 - Closing remarks and key takeaways

Resources & Links:

• RIPEC Annual Report
• Rhode Island Public Expenditures Council
• Gina Raimondo - LinkedIn
• Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

Connect with Michael DeBias:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

This 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.

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Rhode Island Politics and Media Changes: Analyzing the Recent Movements

In 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 information

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island political shifts and Ciccarchi’s career move

02:16 - Analysis of Ciccarchi’s decision in the context of his long political career

03:11 - Discussion on potential quid pro quo and ethical questions raised in the pursuit of judicial positions

04:12 - The impact of the state's revolving door law and recent controversies around judicial appointments

05:21 - The importance of temperament and legal reputation in judicial appointments

06:40 - Ethical debates and precedent-setting implications of Ciccarchi’s move

07:42 - The ongoing challenges in Rhode Island’s public policy issues and what leadership must do

08:12 - Current dynamics of the governor’s race and candidate viability

09:21 - The influence of old-school figures like Robert Cool Moose on Rhode Island politics

10:49 - Political coalition-building and candidate positioning in upcoming elections

11:45 - The difficulties faced by independent candidates like Ken Block

12:11 - The significance of local media in shaping political discourse and public trust

13:14 - Ocean State Media’s recent expansion and importance of radio in Rhode Island

15:01 - The enduring value of radio as a free, trusted medium for public information

16:23 - The future of local radio and its role in community engagement and journalism

N.B. This episode was recorded prior to Joe Shekarchi's resignation as Speaker though presented as a likely outcome.

Resources & Links:

• Ocean State Media
• Bill Bartholomew on Twitter
• Ian Donis on Facebook

Connect with Ian Donis:

• Ocean State Media

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In 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 authenticity
• How stand-up comedy serves as a gateway to revealing personal stories and universal truths
• The interplay between environmental factors like wildfires and mental health in storytelling
• Artistic transformation of grief into shared human experience and community support
• The challenges and strategies behind making an intimate documentary about a public figure

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the film "Paralyzed by Hope" and screening details

00:25 - Insights into Neil Berkeley's entry into the project and initial ideas

01:12 - Behind the spontaneous filming process with Maria Bamford

02:15 - The intentional decision to shoot without soundtrack and melodramatic influence

03:05 - The role of music and how its absence shapes the film's tone

04:17 - Exploring themes of grief, mental health, and comedy's cathartic power

05:25 - Setting scenes in universal moments like wildfire aftermath to discuss climate and community

06:27 - The unpredictable nature of documentary storytelling and real-life events

07:55 - Screening details and future availability of the film

Resources & Links:

• Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story – Screening details and more
• Maria Bamford – Connect with Maria
• Judd Apatow – Collaborator and producer insights

Connect with Neil Berkeley:

• Twitter
• Website

https://newportfilm.com/films/paralyzed-by-hope-the-maria-bamford-story/

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