Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:55:40 -0400 https://amazingwomenri.com/ en-us © 2026 Amazing Women Rhode Island yes Rhode Island, USA 4e26e63a-f51a-596d-bdc9-b1fc66e05751 Deborah Ruggiero episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Rhode Island, RI, Providence, Deb, Ruggiero, Amazing Women, Women, Woman, Interview, Policy Deborah Ruggiero https://storage.buzzsprout.com/qeuoi2bkq3kotqmx38e501xqx7kk?.jpg https://amazingwomenri.com/ Deb Ruggiero Pam Johnston PAM JOHNSTON,  CEO of Ocean State Media, discusses the merger of RI PBS TV and The Public’s Radio that has been two years in the making. She discusses the new radio signal on 103.7 FM, how Ocean State Media is navigating the elimination of federal funds for public media, and their goal for community-centered local journalism.     The CEO of Ocean State Media discusses the merger of RI PBS TV and The Public’s Radio, which has been two years in the making. She discusses the new radio signal on 103.7 FM, how Ocean State Media is navigating the elimination of federal funds for public media, and their goal for community-centered local journalism.   

]]> PAM JOHNSTON,  CEO of Ocean State Media, discusses the merger of RI PBS TV and The Public’s Radio that has been two years in the making. She discusses the new radio signal on 103.7 FM, how Ocean State Media is navigating the elimination of federal funds for public media, and their goal for community-centered local journalism.     The CEO of Ocean State Media discusses the merger of RI PBS TV and The Public’s Radio, which has been two years in the making. She discusses the new radio signal on 103.7 FM, how Ocean State Media is navigating the elimination of federal funds for public media, and their goal for community-centered local journalism.   

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Pam Johnston Buzzsprout-19248664 Thu, 28 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400 1245 public broadcasting, NPR 3 10 full false Suzanne Snyder SUZANNE SNYDER, founder of SAIL BEYOND CANCER, creates a touchstone moment for cancer survivors to leave cancer at the dock and head into the healing powers of the wind and water. She discusses her journey with cancer and how it inspired her to start this non-profit in 2014.

]]> SUZANNE SNYDER, founder of SAIL BEYOND CANCER, creates a touchstone moment for cancer survivors to leave cancer at the dock and head into the healing powers of the wind and water. She discusses her journey with cancer and how it inspired her to start this non-profit in 2014.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Suzanne Snyder Buzzsprout-18988381 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:00:00 -0400 1102 ALBA, Therapeutic Sailing, Cancer Patients 3 9 full false Lauren Schlanger American veterans deserve the best in healthcare because they earned it. Dr. LAUREN SCHLANGER  is the Women’s Health Medical Director at the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She discusses the programs available to women veterans, mental health services, and a ‘holistic’ approach to integrate veterans back into the community.  

]]> American veterans deserve the best in healthcare because they earned it. Dr. LAUREN SCHLANGER  is the Women’s Health Medical Director at the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She discusses the programs available to women veterans, mental health services, and a ‘holistic’ approach to integrate veterans back into the community.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lauren Schlanger Buzzsprout-18706567 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0400 1267 women veterans’ healthcare, Providence VA, women’s cardiovascular health 3 8 full false Martha Cummings MARTHA CUMMINGS is an educator and founder of Universal Promise, a nonprofit that provides educational opportunities to young children in rural South Africa. She discusses how private donations and local partnerships helped build a library, science lab, and classroom renovations. The pass rate for 12th graders skyrocketed from 14 to 93 percent last year.  

]]> MARTHA CUMMINGS is an educator and founder of Universal Promise, a nonprofit that provides educational opportunities to young children in rural South Africa. She discusses how private donations and local partnerships helped build a library, science lab, and classroom renovations. The pass rate for 12th graders skyrocketed from 14 to 93 percent last year.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Martha Cummings Buzzsprout-18706563 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:00:00 -0500 1300 Universal Promise, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 8 full false Melissa Cherney MELISSA CHERNEY is the new CEO of Rhode Island Foodbank. She discusses the differences coming from the Great Plains Food Bank in North Dakota and puts a human face on the hungry in Rhode Island. She also shares her personal struggle with hunger and receiving SNAP benefits. 

]]> MELISSA CHERNEY is the new CEO of Rhode Island Foodbank. She discusses the differences coming from the Great Plains Food Bank in North Dakota and puts a human face on the hungry in Rhode Island. She also shares her personal struggle with hunger and receiving SNAP benefits. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Melissa Cherney Buzzsprout-18494238 Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0500 1250 RI Food Bank, food pantries, Community Farms, SNAP, food insecurity 5 7 full false Ruth Reinhardt The Rhode Island Philharmonic enters a new era with the first woman conductor and Music Director. RUTH REINHARDT has an impressive international reputation as a dynamic musical conductor. Born in Germany, she had already composed a full-length opera by the age of 17, which she conducted with her local music school. Ruth describes how she communicates with the musicians, the energy of the audience, and her plans for the Music School as she works with aspiring young musicians.  

]]> The Rhode Island Philharmonic enters a new era with the first woman conductor and Music Director. RUTH REINHARDT has an impressive international reputation as a dynamic musical conductor. Born in Germany, she had already composed a full-length opera by the age of 17, which she conducted with her local music school. Ruth describes how she communicates with the musicians, the energy of the audience, and her plans for the Music School as she works with aspiring young musicians.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Ruth Reinhardt Buzzsprout-18325816 Fri, 26 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500 1325 RI Philharmonic Orchestra, RI Philharmonic Music School, women conductors, Dallas Symphony 5 6 full false Margret Holland McDuff Do you know someone who is struggling to make ends meet? For over 130 years, Family Service of Rhode Island has been helping families out of poverty. MARGARET HOLLAND MCDUFF, CEO, has been at FSRI for 4 decades starting as a social worker helping teens in trauma.  She highlights the efforts of this human services agency, which positively influences countless families and children in the state. 

]]> Do you know someone who is struggling to make ends meet? For over 130 years, Family Service of Rhode Island has been helping families out of poverty. MARGARET HOLLAND MCDUFF, CEO, has been at FSRI for 4 decades starting as a social worker helping teens in trauma.  She highlights the efforts of this human services agency, which positively influences countless families and children in the state. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Margret Holland McDuff Buzzsprout-18243741 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500 1219 RI, Family Services, Children's health, women leadership 5 5 full false Kate Brewster Johnny Cake Center Cuts to federal SNAP benefits mean more Rhode Island families go hungry. KATE BREWSTER, CEO of Johnny Cake Center, a food pantry serving South County, says families worry about housing costs and putting food on the table. 

]]> Cuts to federal SNAP benefits mean more Rhode Island families go hungry. KATE BREWSTER, CEO of Johnny Cake Center, a food pantry serving South County, says families worry about housing costs and putting food on the table. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kate Brewster Buzzsprout-18139612 Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1255 RI Food Bank, food pantries, Community Farms, SNAP, Johnny Cake Center 5 4 full false Rebekah Rosen Gomez REBEKAH ROSEN GOMEZ is co-founder and executive director of CONEXION LATINA NEWPORT, an organization that helps educate, empower, and connect the Hispanic community to services on Aquidneck Island. She explains how the values, culture, and work ethic of the Latino community contribute to the future and the local economy.

]]> REBEKAH ROSEN GOMEZ is co-founder and executive director of CONEXION LATINA NEWPORT, an organization that helps educate, empower, and connect the Hispanic community to services on Aquidneck Island. She explains how the values, culture, and work ethic of the Latino community contribute to the future and the local economy.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Rebekah Rosen Gomen Buzzsprout-18089042 Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1307 Conexion Latina Newport, RI Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Diocese of Providence, ACLU, Latina Oral History Project 5 3 full false Girls on the Run RI Since 2012, Girls on the Run Rhode Island has been inspiring girls from third to eighth grade to recognize their inner strengths and increase their physical activity. KASHA HANFLIK, executive director, and ELIZABETH MCGANN, program manager, discuss how young girls build friendships and grow their self-confidence during the ten-week program.   

]]> Since 2012, Girls on the Run Rhode Island has been inspiring girls from third to eighth grade to recognize their inner strengths and increase their physical activity. KASHA HANFLIK, executive director, and ELIZABETH MCGANN, program manager, discuss how young girls build friendships and grow their self-confidence during the ten-week program.   

]]> Deborah Ruggiero Buzzsprout-17886529 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1281 Heart and Sole, GOTR, social-emotional skills 5 2 full false Jennifer Lawless We are more politically divided than we have ever been in over 30 years. JENNIFER LAWLESS, chair of the Politics Department at the University of Virginia, discusses the national political scene and “affective polarization”.  If you are a Rhode Island political junkie, you may recall that in 2006 she ran for the Democratic nomination for  RI’s 2nd Congressional District. She lost but continues her research and analysis of politics.  

]]> We are more politically divided than we have ever been in over 30 years. JENNIFER LAWLESS, chair of the Politics Department at the University of Virginia, discusses the national political scene and “affective polarization”.  If you are a Rhode Island political junkie, you may recall that in 2006 she ran for the Democratic nomination for  RI’s 2nd Congressional District. She lost but continues her research and analysis of politics.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero /Jennifer Lawless Buzzsprout-17698812 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400 1290 misinformation and fake news, political divide, affective polarization, gender gap in elections 5 1 full false Lisa Guillette LISA GUILLETTE, executive director of Foster Forward, discusses how foster care in Rhode Island has changed over the years, their innovative housing project in Pawtucket, and how opening your heart and home can change the life of a child forever.   

]]> LISA GUILLETTE, executive director of Foster Forward, discusses how foster care in Rhode Island has changed over the years, their innovative housing project in Pawtucket, and how opening your heart and home can change the life of a child forever.   

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lisa Guillette Buzzsprout-17381571 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:00:00 -0400 1199 Foster Care, Real Connections, Youth Drop-In Center, Becoming a Mentor 4 19 full false Sue AnderBois SUE ANDERBOIS is the Director of Climate and Energy for The Nature Conservancy. She also serves on the Providence City Council. She discusses how the city hopes to fund the $15 million settlement to the Providence School District, her work on affordable housing, and how environmental groups are handling the Republican Administration’s dismantling of environmental and clean energy policy issues.

]]> SUE ANDERBOIS is the Director of Climate and Energy for The Nature Conservancy. She also serves on the Providence City Council. She discusses how the city hopes to fund the $15 million settlement to the Providence School District, her work on affordable housing, and how environmental groups are handling the Republican Administration’s dismantling of environmental and clean energy policy issues.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Sue AnderBois Buzzsprout-17056765 Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400 1288 Housing, Rhode Island, Providence, green tech, blue economy 4 18 full false Lisa Raiola Since 2014, Rhode Island’s premier culinary incubator is HOPE & MAIN in Warren. Founder and CEO, LISA RAIOLA shares the secret sauce to helping over five hundred entrepreneurs to jumpstart their food business- 60% are women-owned and 45% owned by founders of color.

]]> Since 2014, Rhode Island’s premier culinary incubator is HOPE & MAIN in Warren. Founder and CEO, LISA RAIOLA shares the secret sauce to helping over five hundred entrepreneurs to jumpstart their food business- 60% are women-owned and 45% owned by founders of color.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lisa Raiola Buzzsprout-16849001 Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0400 1260 Food, Warren, Entropnenur, restaurant 4 17 full false Loren Spears (2025) How much do you know about native American history? The Narragansett Indians are the state’s only federally recognized tribe. LOREN SPEARS, the executive director of Tomaquag Museum, the state’s only indigenous museum, discuses native American history, culture, and art.    

]]> How much do you know about native American history? The Narragansett Indians are the state’s only federally recognized tribe. LOREN SPEARS, the executive director of Tomaquag Museum, the state’s only indigenous museum, discuses native American history, culture, and art.    

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Loren Spears Buzzsprout-16654660 Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500 1185 Tomaquag, Native American, Narragansett 4 16 full false Roberta Richman Roberta Richman is an artist who spent 33 years at the RI Department of  Corrections including warden of the Women’s Prison. She is not like the warden in Shawshank Redemption, but more like Mother Theresa!  She began by creating art programs in the prison and later collaborated with community groups to create support systems to help people once they were released from prison.

]]> Roberta Richman is an artist who spent 33 years at the RI Department of  Corrections including warden of the Women’s Prison. She is not like the warden in Shawshank Redemption, but more like Mother Theresa!  She began by creating art programs in the prison and later collaborated with community groups to create support systems to help people once they were released from prison.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Roberta Richman Buzzsprout-16361764 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0500 1460 HERA Art Gallery, Programs Preventing Recidivism, Open DoorsRI 4 15 full false Beth Bixby BETH BIXBY shares her compelling story of going from a client of  Tides Family Services to the CEO. She is the first woman CEO of a Brothers of Christian Schools upon the retirement of founder Brother Michael who started the agency to help at-risk children.  

]]> BETH BIXBY shares her compelling story of going from a client of  Tides Family Services to the CEO. She is the first woman CEO of a Brothers of Christian Schools upon the retirement of founder Brother Michael who started the agency to help at-risk children.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Beth Bixby Buzzsprout-16169676 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500 1549 Brother Michael, Family Tides Services, at-risk youth, No Walls philosophy 4 14 full false Kate Brewster-Lisa Blackmon It’s the time of season when food is foremost. Yet, 40% of Rhode Island households suffer from ‘food insecurity’.  KATE BREWSTER, CEO of Johnny Cake Center, a food pantry serving South County, says people must first worry about housing and feeding the family is second. She and RI Food Bank’s LISA ROTH BLACKMAN put a face on the hungry in Rhode Island. 

]]> It’s the time of season when food is foremost. Yet, 40% of Rhode Island households suffer from ‘food insecurity’.  KATE BREWSTER, CEO of Johnny Cake Center, a food pantry serving South County, says people must first worry about housing and feeding the family is second. She and RI Food Bank’s LISA ROTH BLACKMAN put a face on the hungry in Rhode Island. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kate Brewster Buzzsprout-16169672 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 1454 RI Food Bank, food pantries, Community Farms, food insecurity 4 13 full false Lucy Rios Domestic violence is a public health and public safety issue. LUCY RIOS, executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, discusses the sobering stats that nearly one in two Rhode Islanders have experienced domestic violence and how federal and state funding cuts have reduced programs.

]]> Domestic violence is a public health and public safety issue. LUCY RIOS, executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, discusses the sobering stats that nearly one in two Rhode Islanders have experienced domestic violence and how federal and state funding cuts have reduced programs.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lucy Rios Buzzsprout-15936385 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400 1482 Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), Safety Planning 4 12 full false Michelle Wilcox For the past 30 years, MICHELLE WILCOX has worked with every CEO at  Crossroads Rhode Island. Now, she is the president/CEO responsible for internal operations, programs, physical assets, and new housing development. She shares her dreams and vision for the agency’s future. 

]]> For the past 30 years, MICHELLE WILCOX has worked with every CEO at  Crossroads Rhode Island. Now, she is the president/CEO responsible for internal operations, programs, physical assets, and new housing development. She shares her dreams and vision for the agency’s future. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Michelle Wilcox Buzzsprout-15936386 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400 1452 homelessness, community housing, Pine Street Project, Kingstown Crossings 4 12 full false Mitty Mirrer Mitty Mirrer, award-winning journalist, filmmaker, and founder of Gold Star Children, discusses her volunteer work in Ukraine with TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors). Listen as she shares compelling stories about the amazing resilience of Ukrainian women despite the loss of their homeland and loved ones.  

]]> Mitty Mirrer, award-winning journalist, filmmaker, and founder of Gold Star Children, discusses her volunteer work in Ukraine with TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors). Listen as she shares compelling stories about the amazing resilience of Ukrainian women despite the loss of their homeland and loved ones.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Mitty Mirrer Buzzsprout-15822282 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1440 Gold Star Children, Taps Ukraine, Taps.org 4 11 full false Lisa Pina-Warren LISA PINA-WARREN, the executive director of The Nonviolence Institute, joins me for a compelling conversation on how they square the use of nonviolence to mitigate the rise of gun and gang violence in Providence. It is a compelling conversation that includes her personal story. Lisa lost her brother and family members to gun violence.  It is so tragic that we experienced another school shooting, this week in Georgia. Guns are the leading killer of children in the U.S.  We have more mass shootings than any other country on the planet. So much more work needs to be done to prevent unnecessary deaths from gun violence.   

]]> LISA PINA-WARREN, the executive director of The Nonviolence Institute, joins me for a compelling conversation on how they square the use of nonviolence to mitigate the rise of gun and gang violence in Providence. It is a compelling conversation that includes her personal story. Lisa lost her brother and family members to gun violence.  It is so tragic that we experienced another school shooting, this week in Georgia. Guns are the leading killer of children in the U.S.  We have more mass shootings than any other country on the planet. So much more work needs to be done to prevent unnecessary deaths from gun violence.   

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lisa Pina-Warren Buzzsprout-15703550 Fri, 06 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1517 nonviolence, beloved community, street workers, Martin Luther King, Jr. 4 10 full false Heather Hole Strout HEATHER HOLE STROUT is a life-long Newporter. After 22 years teaching, she joined the Martin Luther King Community Center of Newport County in 2015. Newport is the 5th poorest city in Rhode Island and for over 100 years the MLK Center has been providing food, community outreach, and teaching programs for children and families. 

]]> HEATHER HOLE STROUT is a life-long Newporter. After 22 years teaching, she joined the Martin Luther King Community Center of Newport County in 2015. Newport is the 5th poorest city in Rhode Island and for over 100 years the MLK Center has been providing food, community outreach, and teaching programs for children and families. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Heather Hole Strout Buzzsprout-15551697 Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 1432 MLK Community Center, Food Pantry, Food 2 Friends, preschool 4 9 full false Martha Mainiero Early detection of breast cancer can save a woman’s life. Dr. Martha Mainiero, a radiologist at RI Hospital, discusses preventative measures, warning signs, and breast cancer treatments. She provides hope and encouragement for anyone diagnosed or recovering from breast cancer. 

]]> Early detection of breast cancer can save a woman’s life. Dr. Martha Mainiero, a radiologist at RI Hospital, discusses preventative measures, warning signs, and breast cancer treatments. She provides hope and encouragement for anyone diagnosed or recovering from breast cancer. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Martha Mainiero Buzzsprout-15495000 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400 1431 breast cancer, mammograms, radiology, genetics, survivorship , lifespan 4 8 full false Weayonnoh Nelson Davies Weayonnoh Nelson Davies, executive director of Economic Progress Institute, discusses this nonpartisan research policy organization’s work to ensure economic security for low- and modest-income Rhode Island families. 

]]> Weayonnoh Nelson Davies, executive director of Economic Progress Institute, discusses this nonpartisan research policy organization’s work to ensure economic security for low- and modest-income Rhode Island families. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Weayonnoh Nelson Davies Buzzsprout-14961351 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1482 RI Works Program, Childcare Assistance, Workforce Development, EPI 4 7 full false Cathryn Jamieson Cathryn Jamieson, a mother, grandmother, sister, and owner of a hair salon,  gets a second chance at life when her living donor, Lisa Doucet, managing director at a communications firm, donates one of her kidneys to Cathryn.  It is a compelling story about why more people could become kidney donors if they better understood the process. 

]]> Cathryn Jamieson, a mother, grandmother, sister, and owner of a hair salon,  gets a second chance at life when her living donor, Lisa Doucet, managing director at a communications firm, donates one of her kidneys to Cathryn.  It is a compelling story about why more people could become kidney donors if they better understood the process. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Cathryn Jamieson Buzzsprout-14890638 Mon, 15 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400 1567 New England Donor Services, kidney donations, living donors 4 7 full false Morgan Grefe Rhode Island is home to the fourth oldest state historical society in the country, Executive director, MORGAN GREFE of the RI Historical Society, discusses some of the state’s must-see social and historical sites. She also explains the historical significance of the ‘three-deckers’ where immigrant families lived and walked to nearby factory jobs. 

]]> Rhode Island is home to the fourth oldest state historical society in the country, Executive director, MORGAN GREFE of the RI Historical Society, discusses some of the state’s must-see social and historical sites. She also explains the historical significance of the ‘three-deckers’ where immigrant families lived and walked to nearby factory jobs. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Morgan Grefe Buzzsprout-14805160 Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400 1443 RI history, three-deckers, What Cheer, Museum of Work & Culture 4 6 full false Kelly Nevins KELLY NEVINS, CEO of The Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, a social justice organization with the goal of improving the lives of women and girls in RI. We discuss the status of women and girls in this state, grantmaking through a gender lens, economic security, civic engagement, and why it all matters.

]]> KELLY NEVINS, CEO of The Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, a social justice organization with the goal of improving the lives of women and girls in RI. We discuss the status of women and girls in this state, grantmaking through a gender lens, economic security, civic engagement, and why it all matters.

]]> https://amazingwomenri.com/ Deborah Ruggiero / Kelly Nevins Buzzsprout-14576836 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500 1468 Gender equity, WFRI, Fair Pay, Family Leave, Women’s Policy Institute, Reproductive Privacy Act 4 4 full false Sarah Anderson Sarah Anderson, CEO and Superintendent of Blackstone Valley Prep, discusses the role of charter schools - which are public schools - and how the shift in RI’s education funding formula in 2026 will impact all public schools.

]]> Sarah Anderson, CEO and Superintendent of Blackstone Valley Prep, discusses the role of charter schools - which are public schools - and how the shift in RI’s education funding formula in 2026 will impact all public schools.

]]> https://amazingwomenri.com/ Deborah Ruggiero / Sarah Anderson Buzzsprout-14422587 Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0500 1506 Education, charter schools, education funding, RI Budget, women in education, women leaders 4 3 full false Rev Rebecca Spencer Reverend REBECCA SPENCER, is the first woman to serve as senior minister at the Central Congregational Church in Providence. She discusses retirement after 35 years, raising her cows on her farm, spiritual awakening, and how to find common ground in turbulent times.

]]> Reverend REBECCA SPENCER, is the first woman to serve as senior minister at the Central Congregational Church in Providence. She discusses retirement after 35 years, raising her cows on her farm, spiritual awakening, and how to find common ground in turbulent times.

]]> https://amazingwomenri.com/ Deborah Ruggiero / Rev Rebecca Spencer Buzzsprout-14319934 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0500 1493 Congregational, Retirement, Central Church, religion, clergy 4 2 full false Helen Anthony You know HELEN ANTHONY as Providence city councilwoman, Ward 2. She is an avid outdoorsperson and discusses her life-changing accident. Helen was hit by an ATV vehicle while hiking in California.  She endured many surgeries and months of recovery in the hospital.  As she says, “It wasn’t my time.”

]]> You know HELEN ANTHONY as Providence city councilwoman, Ward 2. She is an avid outdoorsperson and discusses her life-changing accident. Helen was hit by an ATV vehicle while hiking in California.  She endured many surgeries and months of recovery in the hospital.  As she says, “It wasn’t my time.”

]]> https://amazingwomenri.com/ Deborah Ruggiero / Helen Anthony Buzzsprout-14172847 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500 1514 Rhode Island, Providence, City Council, recovery 4 1 full false Kristen Williams KRISTEN WILLIAMS, executive director, of RIVERZEDGE ARTS in Woonsocket discusses the economic engine of the art community in this state. She highlights the workforce development programs at RIVERZEDGE ARTS including paid, work-based learning for teens in the state.    

]]> KRISTEN WILLIAMS, executive director, of RIVERZEDGE ARTS in Woonsocket discusses the economic engine of the art community in this state. She highlights the workforce development programs at RIVERZEDGE ARTS including paid, work-based learning for teens in the state.    

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kristen Williams Buzzsprout-13887851 Wed, 01 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1571 economic engine of the arts, workforce development, work-based learning for teens 3 16 full false Jennifer Hawkins JENNIFER HAWKINS is the CEO of One Neighborhood Builders, a nonprofit community. development leader.  We discuss where affordable housing is being built in Rhode Island, mixed-income social housing, and how short-term rentals have impacted the housing stock for year-round renters. 

]]> JENNIFER HAWKINS is the CEO of One Neighborhood Builders, a nonprofit community. development leader.  We discuss where affordable housing is being built in Rhode Island, mixed-income social housing, and how short-term rentals have impacted the housing stock for year-round renters. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero /Jennifer Hawkins Buzzsprout-13663310 Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1410 affordable housing, St. Patrick Church Cumberland, social housing, mixed income 3 15 full false Caroline Gangji We are all getting older and all of us want to ‘age in place’.  In the next six years, over a  third of the population will be 55+. CAROLINE GANGJI, executive director of the  VILLAGE COMMON of RHODE ISLAND discusses what communities have already established a ‘village’ to age in place, and why this is the future.

]]> We are all getting older and all of us want to ‘age in place’.  In the next six years, over a  third of the population will be 55+. CAROLINE GANGJI, executive director of the  VILLAGE COMMON of RHODE ISLAND discusses what communities have already established a ‘village’ to age in place, and why this is the future.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Caroline Gangji Buzzsprout-13321328 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1500 Village Commons, Aging in place, Office of Healthy Aging 3 14 full false Anita Bruno  Rosie The Riveter is the most iconic image of women working in the defense industry during WW II.  There are many skilled tradeswomen today.  ANITA BRUNO started  Rhode Island Women in The Trades in 2019. This non-profit organizes, educates, and trains women for employment in building trades for economic empowerment.

]]>  Rosie The Riveter is the most iconic image of women working in the defense industry during WW II.  There are many skilled tradeswomen today.  ANITA BRUNO started  Rhode Island Women in The Trades in 2019. This non-profit organizes, educates, and trains women for employment in building trades for economic empowerment.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Anita Bruno Buzzsprout-13321324 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1525 RI Carpenters Local Chapter Sisters in the Brotherhood, Local 330,Women in non-traditional jobs, RI Women in the Trades 3 22 full false Helena Buonanno Foulkes HELENA BUONANNO FOULKES stormed onto the political scene in 2022 with a formidable Democratic Gubernatorial Campaign in Rhode Island. She discusses lessons learned from that campaign, her current work on public education with several municipalities, and …. wait it for it… her decision on running again for Governor in 2026. 

]]> HELENA BUONANNO FOULKES stormed onto the political scene in 2022 with a formidable Democratic Gubernatorial Campaign in Rhode Island. She discusses lessons learned from that campaign, her current work on public education with several municipalities, and …. wait it for it… her decision on running again for Governor in 2026. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Helena Foulkes Buzzsprout-13243832 Tue, 18 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0400 1469 Democrat, Gubernatorial, Campaign, Public Schools 3 21 full false Tammy Reiss Athletic competition is a doorway to self-confidence and success. University of Rhode Island women’s basketball coach, TAMMI REISS, has been named Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year twice in her three years at URI.  She talks about coaching young women to be the best in the conference, excel in academics, and learn the game’s life lessons for future success.  

]]> Athletic competition is a doorway to self-confidence and success. University of Rhode Island women’s basketball coach, TAMMI REISS, has been named Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year twice in her three years at URI.  She talks about coaching young women to be the best in the conference, excel in academics, and learn the game’s life lessons for future success.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Tammy Reiss Buzzsprout-13074105 Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1520 Women in Sports, WNBA, Atlantic 10 Conference, College Basketball 3 20 full false Karen Santilli Homelessness and affordable housing are top-of-mind policy issues in Rhode Island. KAREN SANTILLI, CEO of Crossroads RI, discusses new projects for the unhoused, and what the state needs to do to mitigate the housing shortage. 

]]> Homelessness and affordable housing are top-of-mind policy issues in Rhode Island. KAREN SANTILLI, CEO of Crossroads RI, discusses new projects for the unhoused, and what the state needs to do to mitigate the housing shortage. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Karen Santilli Buzzsprout-12944574 Tue, 30 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1464 Homeless, Crossroads RI, unhoused, housing 3 19 full false Doctor Daisy Bassen 15% of RI high school students reported attempting suicide one or more times.  Dr. Daisy Bassen, a child psychiatrist and medical director of Thrive Behavioral Health, discusses mental health stressors, depression, and warning signs for teens and young adults.

]]> 15% of RI high school students reported attempting suicide one or more times.  Dr. Daisy Bassen, a child psychiatrist and medical director of Thrive Behavioral Health, discusses mental health stressors, depression, and warning signs for teens and young adults.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Dr. Daisy Bassen Buzzsprout-12757214 Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1470 Thrive Behavioral Health, teen mental health, child psychiatrist, teens 3 18 full false Page Clausius Parks Page Clausius Parks, executive director of RI KIDS COUNT,  discusses her challenges and goals for this statewide policy and advocacy organization that improves the health, education, and economic well-being of RI’s children.

]]> Page Clausius Parks, executive director of RI KIDS COUNT,  discusses her challenges and goals for this statewide policy and advocacy organization that improves the health, education, and economic well-being of RI’s children.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Page Clausius Parks Buzzsprout-12757208 Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1485 Kids Count, advocacy, teens, kids, education, children 3 18 full false Kate Liberman KATE LIBERMAN, only the 2nd woman executive director of TRINITY REPERTORY Company, discusses her work in NY and Boston theater, her work with Curt Columbus, and Trinity’s role in promoting diversity and equity.

]]> KATE LIBERMAN, only the 2nd woman executive director of TRINITY REPERTORY Company, discusses her work in NY and Boston theater, her work with Curt Columbus, and Trinity’s role in promoting diversity and equity.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kate Liberman Buzzsprout-12532612 Tue, 28 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1481 Keywords: Trinity Rep, We See You White American Theater, equity, Inferior Sex ERA, Project Discovery 3 17 full false Kim Kalunian KIM KALUNIAN, WPRI TV 12 news anchor at 4pm, a native Rhode Islander, discusses her career working with her husband in the same industry and in the same newsroom, and how she and Ted Nesi juggle parenting, childcare, and turning off the news at home.

]]> KIM KALUNIAN, WPRI TV 12 news anchor at 4pm, a native Rhode Islander, discusses her career working with her husband in the same industry and in the same newsroom, and how she and Ted Nesi juggle parenting, childcare, and turning off the news at home.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kim Kalunian Buzzsprout-12532607 Tue, 28 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1567 WPRI TV, working couple reporters, Ted Nesi, social media 3 17 full true Aniece Germaine Aniece Germaine is the first black woman elected to the Cranston City Council. She shares her story of escaping life-threatening events in Haiti to come to the U.S where she learned English, went to college, ran for office, and is now serving her second term on the city council.    

]]> Aniece Germaine is the first black woman elected to the Cranston City Council. She shares her story of escaping life-threatening events in Haiti to come to the U.S where she learned English, went to college, ran for office, and is now serving her second term on the city council.    

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Aniece Germaine Buzzsprout-12428614 Mon, 13 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0400 1495 Cranston City Council, women leadership, local Cranston politics, Haiti 3 16 full false Anna Cano Morales Anna Cano Morales, Vice President for External Relations and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Rhode Island College, discusses the future of Rhode Island College, RIC as a Hispanic Serving Institution, and the importance of a secondary education in today’s marketplace.

]]> Anna Cano Morales, Vice President for External Relations and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Rhode Island College, discusses the future of Rhode Island College, RIC as a Hispanic Serving Institution, and the importance of a secondary education in today’s marketplace.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Anna Cano Morales Buzzsprout-12384099 Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0500 1634 RIC, diversity and equity, Hispanic Serving Institution, tuition at RIC 3 15 full false Shelley Cortese - Lucy Rios Domestic violence is a public health and public safety issue. SHELLEY CORTESE, RI Dept. of Corrections oversees adult probation and parole, and LUCY RIOS from the RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence discuss their collaboration and how they’re solving the DV problem.  

]]> Domestic violence is a public health and public safety issue. SHELLEY CORTESE, RI Dept. of Corrections oversees adult probation and parole, and LUCY RIOS from the RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence discuss their collaboration and how they’re solving the DV problem.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Shelley Cortese / Lucy Rios Buzzsprout-12345168 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500 1535 Domestic violence, parole and probation police reports, judicial system for DV, RICADV, RI DOC DV probation 3 14 full false Kelli Armstrong Kelli Armstrong is the 8th president of Salve Regina University and the first who not a Sister of Mercy. She discusses higher education and why service to others is such a part of this school’s culture.  

]]> Kelli Armstrong is the 8th president of Salve Regina University and the first who not a Sister of Mercy. She discusses higher education and why service to others is such a part of this school’s culture.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Kelli Armstrong Buzzsprout-12296221 Tue, 21 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500 1600 Salve Regina, Newport, Salve, Higher Education 3 13 full false Sally Lapides Sally Lapides, CEO of Residential Properties is one of the state’s premier real estate companies with nine offices and a commercial division. She discusses the market, affordable housing, and tips for first-time home buyers in an ever-changing real estate market.

]]> Sally Lapides, CEO of Residential Properties is one of the state’s premier real estate companies with nine offices and a commercial division. She discusses the market, affordable housing, and tips for first-time home buyers in an ever-changing real estate market.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Sally Lapides Buzzsprout-12192751 Mon, 06 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500 1385 Residential Properties, ri real estate, business profiles, women CEO 3 12 full false Ellen Ford Ellen Ford worked at People’s Credit Union for 37 years. She grew up in Newport and discusses rising through the ranks from an entry-level teller to the president/CEO for the last 17 years of her career.

]]> Ellen Ford worked at People’s Credit Union for 37 years. She grew up in Newport and discusses rising through the ranks from an entry-level teller to the president/CEO for the last 17 years of her career.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Ellen Ford Buzzsprout-12192749 Mon, 06 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500 1560 People's Credit Union, Newport RI, Banking, business profile 3 12 full true Emily Crowell Emily Crowell, chief of staff to Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, is an effective, non-stop political operative in this state. Emily shares why she works so hard for this Mayor, her many tattoos (#39 for this 39th Mayor), and why she believes this Administration will do more for the creative capital.  

]]> Emily Crowell, chief of staff to Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, is an effective, non-stop political operative in this state. Emily shares why she works so hard for this Mayor, her many tattoos (#39 for this 39th Mayor), and why she believes this Administration will do more for the creative capital.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Emily Crowell Buzzsprout-12155395 Tue, 31 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0500 1492 Providence schools, tattoos, creative capital, RINOW 3 11 full false Barbara Sokolov and Dr. Jodi Glass BARBARA SOKOLOV and Dr. JODI GLASS explain how Aldersbridge, an East Providence non-profit running health centers for older adults, is embarking on an innovative plan to build affordable housing for aging members of the LGBTQ community.  

]]> BARBARA SOKOLOV and Dr. JODI GLASS explain how Aldersbridge, an East Providence non-profit running health centers for older adults, is embarking on an innovative plan to build affordable housing for aging members of the LGBTQ community.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Barbara Sokolov and Dr. Jodi Glass Buzzsprout-11969910 Tue, 03 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500 1540 Affordable Housing, East Providence, LGBTQ housing, Aldersbridge, East Point Complex, Age In Place 3 10 full false Meghan Grady Since 1969 Meals on Wheels has been delivering meals to the homes of seniors, veterans, friends, and neighbors- over 1200 a day!  Executive director MEGHAN GRADY explains how volunteers bring more than a meal; it’s a smiling face and a personal connection to so many Rhode Islanders. 

]]> Since 1969 Meals on Wheels has been delivering meals to the homes of seniors, veterans, friends, and neighbors- over 1200 a day!  Executive director MEGHAN GRADY explains how volunteers bring more than a meal; it’s a smiling face and a personal connection to so many Rhode Islanders. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Meghan Grady Buzzsprout-11803595 Fri, 02 Dec 2022 14:00:00 -0500 1453 meals on wheels, elderly, MOWRI 3 10 full false Marcela Betancur MARCELA BETANCUR, director of the Latino Policy Institute at Roger Williams University, discusses equity, housing, education, and the economic contributions of the Hispanic community in the state.

]]> MARCELA BETANCUR, director of the Latino Policy Institute at Roger Williams University, discusses equity, housing, education, and the economic contributions of the Hispanic community in the state.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero Buzzsprout-11803590 Fri, 02 Dec 2022 14:00:00 -0500 1545 Latino community, Latino policy institute, RWU, Hispanic community 3 9 full false Mary Burke MARY BURKE is the longest-tenured coach in the history of women’s and men’s basketball in Rhode Island. She has coached the women’s basketball team at  Bryant University for over 30 years and has over 415 wins. Coach Burke is one of the few people who coaches a RI college sport and is a native of Rhode Island.  She’s coaching these women on competition, winning, and life lessons. 

]]> MARY BURKE is the longest-tenured coach in the history of women’s and men’s basketball in Rhode Island. She has coached the women’s basketball team at  Bryant University for over 30 years and has over 415 wins. Coach Burke is one of the few people who coaches a RI college sport and is a native of Rhode Island.  She’s coaching these women on competition, winning, and life lessons. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Mary Burke Buzzsprout-11803586 Fri, 02 Dec 2022 14:00:00 -0500 1490 Bryant University, women’s basketball, women coaches, women’s sports 3 9 full false Karen Emma How’s your financial health? Are you saving for your kid’s education and your retirement? KAREN EMMA is founder and president of Universal Wealth Management. She discusses the myths about Medicare and how to spend less than you take in!

]]> How’s your financial health? Are you saving for your kid’s education and your retirement? KAREN EMMA is founder and president of Universal Wealth Management. She discusses the myths about Medicare and how to spend less than you take in!

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Karen Emma Buzzsprout-11780387 Tue, 29 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500 1339 Medicare, financial management, retirement, saving for college 3 8 full false Valerie Tutson Black history and story-telling is in VALERIE TUTSON’s DNA. She’s an award-winning story-teller with songs and stories from her travels in South Africa and West Africa. She’s a Brown University graduate with a Master’s in theater art and a Bachelor’s   in her self-designed major of Storytelling as a Communications Art.

]]> Black history and story-telling is in VALERIE TUTSON’s DNA. She’s an award-winning story-teller with songs and stories from her travels in South Africa and West Africa. She’s a Brown University graduate with a Master’s in theater art and a Bachelor’s   in her self-designed major of Storytelling as a Communications Art.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Valeri Tutson Buzzsprout-11735585 Mon, 21 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0500 1482 Black History, African Culture, Storytellers 3 7 full false Liz Tanner Rhode Island’s Commerce Secretary is LIZ TANNER, a URI graduate with a law degree from Western New England University. She served as the Director of the Dept. of Business Regulations (DBR), regulating commercial licensing, cannabis, gaming; and she understands the needs of small business.

]]> Rhode Island’s Commerce Secretary is LIZ TANNER, a URI graduate with a law degree from Western New England University. She served as the Director of the Dept. of Business Regulations (DBR), regulating commercial licensing, cannabis, gaming; and she understands the needs of small business.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Liz Tanner Buzzsprout-11702463 Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0500 1383 RI Commerce, business, community, small business, economic development 3 6 full false Lisa Roth Blackman-RI Food Bank You may not think twice about your next family meal, but food insecurity impacts  11% of Rhode Island households.  LISA ROTH BLACKMAN, chief philanthropy officer at the Rhode Island Food Bank, discusses  health equity, community farms, reducing food insecurity, and the important role the RI Food Bank plays in supplying local food pantries.  

]]> You may not think twice about your next family meal, but food insecurity impacts  11% of Rhode Island households.  LISA ROTH BLACKMAN, chief philanthropy officer at the Rhode Island Food Bank, discusses  health equity, community farms, reducing food insecurity, and the important role the RI Food Bank plays in supplying local food pantries.  

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Lisa Roth Buzzsprout-11600195 Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 1580 hunger, RI Food Bank, food insecurity, community farms 3 5 full false Loren Spears The Narragansett Indians have been in Rhode Island for over 30,000 years, according to archeological evidence and oral history. LOREN SPEARS, a Narragansett tribal member and executive director of the Tomaquag Museum, discusses the history, culture and future of the indigenous people. 

]]> The Narragansett Indians have been in Rhode Island for over 30,000 years, according to archeological evidence and oral history. LOREN SPEARS, a Narragansett tribal member and executive director of the Tomaquag Museum, discusses the history, culture and future of the indigenous people. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Loren Spears Buzzsprout-11600193 Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 1466 Narragansett, Indians, indigenous, Niantic, tribal, culture, RI history 4 full false Jen Barrera On any given night over 1200 people are homeless in Rhode Island. 30% of renters cannot afford to pay their rent. Despite legislative initiatives, affordable housing and homelessness are major policy issues.  JENNIFER BARRERA, chief strategist with the RI Coalition for the Homeless discusses what really needs to happen.

]]> On any given night over 1200 people are homeless in Rhode Island. 30% of renters cannot afford to pay their rent. Despite legislative initiatives, affordable housing and homelessness are major policy issues.  JENNIFER BARRERA, chief strategist with the RI Coalition for the Homeless discusses what really needs to happen.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Jennifer Barrera Buzzsprout-11514095 Mon, 17 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400 1475 Jennifer Barrera, RI Coalition for the Homeless, Homeless, affordable housing, Barrera, housing, homelessness 3 3 full false Paula Bontempi Coastal management of the 420 miles of coastline really matters in the Ocean State.  PAULA BONTEMPI, Dean of URI School of Oceanography, discusses the importance of the Blue Economy in our state, coastal resiliency, and the lure of Narragansett Bay.

]]> Coastal management of the 420 miles of coastline really matters in the Ocean State.  PAULA BONTEMPI, Dean of URI School of Oceanography, discusses the importance of the Blue Economy in our state, coastal resiliency, and the lure of Narragansett Bay.

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Paula Bontempi Buzzsprout-11449591 Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400 1499 Paula Bontempi, URI, Oceanography, Blue Economy, CRMC, climate change, sea level rise 3 2 full false Alison Bologna You know her as the morning co-anchor on WJAR TV, but ALISON BOLOGNA, is also a businesswoman and entrepreneur who started SHRI Studio in Pawtucket.  She discusses "showing up for others" and how her team of yoga instructors bring support and inspiration to students, seniors, and those with developmental disabilities to all corners of the state. 

]]> You know her as the morning co-anchor on WJAR TV, but ALISON BOLOGNA, is also a businesswoman and entrepreneur who started SHRI Studio in Pawtucket.  She discusses "showing up for others" and how her team of yoga instructors bring support and inspiration to students, seniors, and those with developmental disabilities to all corners of the state. 

]]> Deborah Ruggiero / Alison Bologna Buzzsprout-11449575 Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400 1404 Alison Bologna, Yoga 2 1 full false