Legislative Lens: People and Policy With Rep. Michelle L. Badger

Lobular Breast Cancer: Awareness, Diagnosis, and Advocacy In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger speaks with Plymouth resident and Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance Executive Director and survivor of Lobular Breast Cancer, Laurie Hutcheson. They talk about lobular breast cancer, a form of breast cancer that often goes unrecognized and deserves greater awareness, research, and attention. Together, they discuss diagnosis, screening challenges, treatment, patient advocacy, and the resources available to patients and families. They also discuss H.4624 and S.2666, which seeks to advance lobular breast cancer awareness and establish October 15 as Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day in the Commonwealth. Listen to learn how education, research, advocacy, and public policy can help improve awareness and outcomes for patients and survivors.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger focuses on mental health, substance use, and recovery—looking at both the work happening at the State House and the resources available right here in Plymouth. Michelle is joined by State Representative Mindy Domb, Chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery, to discuss the committee's work, legislation addressing mental health and substance use, and some of the challenges and opportunities facing communities across Massachusetts. The conversation then comes home to Plymouth, where Michelle speaks with Maureen Coleman of the Plymouth Public Library about the Recovery Corner and the importance of making information and resources accessible. Michael Kelly discusses his work with Plymouth COPE and BAMSI and the importance of community-based support, while Stephen Murray, Director of the SafeSpot Overdose Hotline, shares how SafeSpot works to reduce risk, connect with people who use drugs, and help people access support when they need it. Together, these conversations highlight the importance of reducing stigma, meeting people where they are, and making sure that people and families know they are not alone—and know where to turn for help.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

What is it really like to spend a summer working in a legislative office? In this special episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger sits down with summer interns Stella Reid and Nick Rufo to talk about their experiences at the State House and throughout Plymouth. They discuss what brought them to the internship, the projects they worked on, the legislative process, constituent services, housing and homelessness, and what they learned about public service. Stella and Nick also share their favorite experiences, what surprised them, and how the internship may shape their future. Michelle also reflects on all seven interns who contributed to Team Badger this summer and the impact they made in the office and community.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People & Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger is joined by State Representative Kathy LaNatra and Plymouth Harbormaster Chad Hunter for a timely conversation about boating and water safety in Massachusetts. As summer brings more residents and visitors onto the Commonwealth's waterways, the discussion focuses on how education and preparation can help prevent accidents and save lives. Rep. LaNatra explains the goals of the legislation that was just passed by the House last session, the Hanson-Milone Safe Boating Act and why stronger boater education is an important public safety measure, while Harbormaster Hunter shares practical safety tips and insights from his years of experience managing one of Massachusetts' busiest harbors. Whether you boat regularly or simply enjoy spending time on the water, this episode offers valuable information for staying safe throughout the summer.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger sits down with Theresa Harmon, Founder and Executive Director of To the Moon and Back, to discuss the impact of prenatal opioid exposure on children and families across Massachusetts. Together, they explore what perinatal opioid exposure is, common misconceptions about children affected by substance exposure in utero, and the challenges families face when navigating healthcare, educational, and support systems. Theresa shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind founding To the Moon and Back, and the organization's innovative programs that provide advocacy, education, resources, and community support to families throughout the Commonwealth. The conversation also highlights the importance of early intervention services and discusses H.5296, legislation filed by Representatives Michelle Badger and Kathy LaNatra to expand access to early intervention services for children with prenatal opioid exposure. Theresa and Michelle examine how partnerships between nonprofit organizations, local communities, and state government can improve outcomes for children and strengthen support systems for families. This episode offers an important look at how compassion, evidence-based support, and early investment in children can create lasting positive impacts for families and communities across Massachusetts.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In Episode 15 of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger takes a deep dive into tourism—one of the most important drivers of Plymouth's economy. Joined by Representative Sean Garballey, Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development, and Keiko Orrall, President and CEO of See Plymouth, this episode explores how policy, partnerships, and local leadership come together to support tourism across the Commonwealth. From Plymouth's historic roots to its growing arts, culture, and eco-tourism scene, the conversation highlights how tourism fuels small businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens community identity. The episode also looks ahead to major opportunities like the nation's 250th anniversary and what it will take to keep Massachusetts competitive in a changing travel landscape. Whether you're interested in public policy, local economic development, or what makes destinations like Plymouth thrive, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy with Rep. Badget, we talk with Vanessa Weisbrod of the Celiac Disease Foundation to discuss celiac disease—what it is, how it's diagnosed, and the challenges individuals and families face living with the disease. The conversation highlights the importance of early detection, increased awareness, and access to safe food, particularly in school settings. They also discuss two pieces of legislation that State Rep. Michelle Badger and Senator Joan Lovely filed aimed at improving outcomes for those with celiac disease: H.5012/S.2927, An Act relative to students accessing food and nutritional information, and H.5013/S.2928. The episode emphasizes the role of advocacy, encourages community involvement, and highlights opportunities like Celiac Kids Advocacy Day on May 13 from 1-3PM at the Massachusetts State House, for residents to engage and support meaningful change for the Community. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this special Women's History Month episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, we explore how women's leadership is shaping policy and strengthening communities across Massachusetts — from Beacon Hill to Plymouth County. In the first half of the episode, Representative Christine Barber joins the podcast to discuss the role and impact of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, which is celebrating 50 years of existence. They break down what a legislative caucus is, why caucuses matter, and how the Caucus has helped advance policies that support women and families across the Commonwealth. In the second half, Michelle Davidson, Chair of the Plymouth County Commission on the Status of Women, shares how advocacy happens at the local level. She discusses the Commission's mission, its role in elevating the voices of women and girls across the county, and how community engagement informs broader policy conversations. You can find out more about the work of the Commission at https://www.plymouthcountywomen.org and connect with them at [email protected]. Together, this episode highlights the power of collaboration, representation, and civic engagement in advancing equity and opportunity for women today — while honoring the legacy of those who paved the way. Tune in to learn how state and local leaders work hand in hand to make a difference for Women.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

This episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy focuses on how Plymouth is preparing for the impacts of climate change and building a more resilient future. Plymouth's Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Planner, Mike Cahill, and State Representative Kathy LaNatra, House Chair of the Coastal Caucus, join the conversation to discuss local climate challenges, regional collaboration, and legislative efforts supporting coastal communities. In the second half, Charlie Sidoti, Executive Director of InnSure, joins the conversation to share details about an innovative pilot program in Plymouth exploring how insurance solutions can better support residents and businesses. Tune in to learn how local and state partners are working together to protect Plymouth's people, infrastructure, and economy in a changing climate. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media

In this special episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, I am joined by four fellow first-year State Representatives for a candid conversation about what it is really like to serve during your first year in office. We reflect on what surprised us most, the lessons we learned, the challenges we faced, and the moments that made us proud—both at the State House and in our districts. This episode highlights the shared experience of the freshman legislative class and features Rep. Hannah Bowen of Beverly (6th Essex District), Rep. Hadley Luddy of Orleans (4th Barnstable District), Rep. Thomas Moakley of Falmouth Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket District), and Rep. Mark Sylvia of Fairhaven (10th Bristol District). Together, we offer an honest look at public service, collaboration, and what it means to represent our communities during our first year.

The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media