Vermont Viewpoint

Paul Dame, Chair of the Vermont Republican Party, on the upcoming legislative session and 2026 election,

and Amy Hornblas about her organization Stand Up Vermont and her new online forum, Vermont Back Porch.

Brad opens with a few stories from the Sheep Farm, then...

Rusty Dewees "The Logger" exchanges gifts, shares about his holiday memories, his life and career, and provides a musical performance that brings Brad in for some help.

Then Elizabeth Von Trapp and Brad exchange gifts, and Elizabeth offers up some music and good conversation, and talk about Christmas and love.

On this episode of Vermont Viewpoint, David first talks with Steve Howard, Executive Director of the Vermont State Employee Association VSEA, about Governor Scott’s return-to-commute executive work order and what it means for state employees as well as Vermonters access to services. We will also discuss federal cuts and how that will impact Vermonters both through state programs and adjacent organizations such as the Community Action network across the state. 



Then, David will be joined by Alison Calderara, Executive Director of Capstone Community Action, and Liz Scharf, Director of Capstones Community Economic Development and Food Security, to discuss how Capstone has been helping central Vermonters make ends meet for over 60 years through programs like emergency food and heating assistance, housing counseling, financial coaching, workforce development, headstart and more.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/18/2025.

Rob opens with Orange-1 Republican Representative Mike Tagliavia (Orange, Washington, Corinth, Vershire).

Then Washington-Orange Republican Representative Gina Galfetti (Barre Town, Williamstown) joins in the second hour.

The discussion revolves around Taxation issues, overspending in Montpelier, and the lack of affordability in Vermont.

WDEV Legislative Preview with Matt Cota of Meadow Hill

Education Property Taxes, Health Care Affordability, Transportation Fund Warning Signs. Energy Costs & Climate Policy, A moment of Hope:  Split the Ticket 100,000 gallons of free fuel delivered through Split the Ticket;

A 2025 Vermont Almanac preview WITH Patrick White, Dave Mance, Brett Stanciu;

and then Seth Soloway, Executive Director OF Spruce Peak Arts

and Eric “Ricky” McKinnie of the Blind Boys of Alabama, who are

performing a Christmas Concert Friday December 19th, 7:00 p.m.

at Spruce Peak Arts

The Blind Boys Christmas Show mixes holiday standards with selections from their Grammy-winning holiday classic album, Go Tell It On The Mountain and the spirited Talkin’ Christmas album. Blind Boys will have everyone in the audience singing and clapping along to spread the joy of the season! 

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/12/25.

On this episode of Policy Hour, host David Zuckerman leads two critical conversations shaping Vermont’s future. From 9–10 AM, Senator Martine Larocque Gulick and Representative Edye Graning join David to unpack the School Redistricting Task Force’s recommendations and how state leaders have responded. Then, from 10–11 AM, Saru Jayaraman, President of One Fair Wage, explores the fight for fair pay, tipped wages, and what economic justice means for Vermont workers. Tune in for thoughtful dialogue on education and equity.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/11/2025.

Ross talks first with Jared Rhoads, founder and director of the Center for Modern Health, informs listeners about the reasons behind rising health insurance costs and what can be done to improve Vermont’s Healthcare policies.

Then John Byrnes, Strategic Director with Concerned Veterans for America, discusses the new 2025 National Security Strategy released by the Trump Administration and what priorities have changed from past defense plans.

Next, Dave Soulia from FYIVT.com joins the show to break down rising property taxes and how it can impact every Vermonter.

And Tyler Lindholm, State Director with Americans for Prosperity-Wyoming, talks bull riding, permitting reform, and the secret to Wyoming’s economic success.

Rob talks first with Caledonia County Republican Senator Scott Beck, a member of the Act 73 Redistricting Task Force, on Education Costs, and what may happen at the State House in the upcoming Legislative Session.

and then is joined by Graham Merriweather, of the Liberty Foodfest, coming up in Bellows Falls this Thursday through Saturday, December 11th through 13th. John Klar, of the Small Farm Republic, calls in during this segment.

Brad Ferland hold a tribute to Jon Gailmor, renowned Vermont musician, died peacefully on November 30, 2025 after a year and a half long battle with Leukemia. He died with his family surrounding him, at his son’s home, with his music playing and his family singing along. Featuring Jack Donovan in the studio, Patti Casey, Elisabeth Von Trapp and Taryn Noelle. Also, Elliott Greenblott with AARP Fraud watch. Finally. Rob Smolla. Former President of Vermont Law and Graduate School on rules and constitutional law on the second strike on the suspected drug boat and other constitutional challenges and separation of powers. Rodney Smolla assumed the position of president of Vermont Law and Graduate School on July 1, 2022. After three years of dedicated service, he stepped down from his role as president, effective July 1, 2025, to focus on writing and teaching as a member of the VLGS faculty.

This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 12/08/2025.