https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/community-voices-for-change--6675193Community Voices for Change is a talk show highlighting the work of individuals and organizations working to enhance the greater good of communities. Producer and Host Richard Rudolph begins each show with music from Sam Cooke’s Ain’t That Good News Album -“A Change is Gonna Come”. The show is also based on the writings of Howard Zinn and other writers who believe if we can get organized “Small acts” multiplied by hundreds, thousands of people we can transform our communities, the state and even possibly the world. Our sound engineer is Dennis Kirkpatrick.]]>enNewsCopyright WMPGhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c2c94fc0f86e05b4d6ddb409e6319897.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/community-voices-for-change--6675193Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:30:03 +0000WMPGWMPGfeeds@spreaker.comCommunity Voices for Change is a talk show highlighting the work of individuals and organizations working to enhance the greater good of communities. Producer and Host Richard Rudolph begins each show with music from Sam Cooke’s Ain’t That Good News...Community Voices for Change is a talk show highlighting the work of individuals and organizations working to enhance the greater good of communities. Producer and Host Richard Rudolph begins each show with music from Sam Cooke’s Ain’t That Good News Album -“A Change is Gonna Come”. The show is also based on the writings of Howard Zinn and other writers who believe if we can get organized “Small acts” multiplied by hundreds, thousands of people we can transform our communities, the state and even possibly the world. Our sound engineer is Dennis Kirkpatrick.]]>false9523ab2a-c988-56f0-b1b8-36ffc5a8b5fdepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-center-for-working-class-politics--74661280Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 31, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview with Jarrett Abbott who is the Director of the Center for Working Class Politics which is a research institute dedicated to surveying the political and economic attitudes of working-class voters, statistical analyses of elections, and the construction of a comprehensive database of progressive candidate demographics, strategy, and messaging. The interview focused on a recent report that Professor Joan Williams and Jarret Abbot have put together, "The Lefts' Coalition Crisis:  Understanding the Massive Divide Between Working Class and College Educated Voters, and How to Bridge It."  The report points out that the left needs to develop class competence. We need to connect with people whose top priorities are paychecks, prices and personal safety.  It is not just about winning elections as crucial as  that is when democracy is under attack. It's  about understanding that people need a sense of personal and economic security before they will support the changes that progressives are calling for.  While Liberals are primarily concerned about costs / working class folks are also concerned about cost, but economic security is the highest working class priority. Protecting Social Security, Medicare, lowering rents and housing costs, drug prices, Medicare and affordable childcare.  All of this requires a steady income stream, a secure economic future, rising wages, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.  Given these working class concerns, the key to success is to keep focus on the economy.  The lesson is not that working-class voters are unreachable.  It's that you can't reach them if you don't prioritize the issues that they care most about.  The report also points out that class competence can increase working-class support for progressive policies on hot button culture and climate issues.  The key is mutual respect accompanied by class-competent reframing around working-class values can move public opinion in a progressive direction.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74661280Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 31, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview with Jarrett Abbott who is the Director of the Center...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 31, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview with Jarrett Abbott who is the Director of the Center for Working Class Politics which is a research institute dedicated to surveying the political and economic attitudes of working-class voters, statistical analyses of elections, and the construction of a comprehensive database of progressive candidate demographics, strategy, and messaging. The interview focused on a recent report that Professor Joan Williams and Jarret Abbot have put together, "The Lefts' Coalition Crisis:  Understanding the Massive Divide Between Working Class and College Educated Voters, and How to Bridge It."  The report points out that the left needs to develop class competence. We need to connect with people whose top priorities are paychecks, prices and personal safety.  It is not just about winning elections as crucial as  that is when democracy is under attack. It's  about understanding that people need a sense of personal and economic security before they will support the changes that progressives are calling for.  While Liberals are primarily concerned about costs / working class folks are also concerned about cost, but economic security is the highest working class priority. Protecting Social Security, Medicare, lowering rents and housing costs, drug prices, Medicare and affordable childcare.  All of this requires a steady income stream, a secure economic future, rising wages, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.  Given these working class concerns, the key to success is to keep focus on the economy.  The lesson is not that working-class voters are unreachable.  It's that you can't reach them if you don't prioritize the issues that they care most about.  The report also points out that class competence can increase working-class support for progressive policies on hot button culture and climate issues.  The key is mutual respect accompanied by class-competent reframing around working-class values can move public opinion in a progressive direction.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-miles-delivers-action-coalition--74661426Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 24, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview with Margaret Reynolds who is the cofounder of the Miles Delivers Action Coalition which was formed in May 2026 to convince  Maine Health to keep open the Birth Center in Damariscotta, Maine.  Since its founding it has reached out to the larger community and has over 10,000 supporters.  Margaret talked about Maine Health's rationale for closing the birthing center and the impact it will have on women who will have to drive over an hour to get help delivering their babies.  Closure would redirect  births to neighboring hospitals and would increase additional demands on EMTs, emergency departments and affect interfacility transportation systems. She pointed out that leading experts in rural healthcare have warned that evaluating maternity programs through narrow financial lenses risks overlooking their broader contribution to hospital sustainability, workplace recruitment and long term health vitality of communities they serve.  Her organization has reached out to the governor and members of the Maine State Legislature and remains optimistic that the center will ultimately continue to keep open.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74661426Mon, 24 Aug 2026 23:30:01 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 24, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview with Margaret Reynolds who is the cofounder of the...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 24, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 7:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview with Margaret Reynolds who is the cofounder of the Miles Delivers Action Coalition which was formed in May 2026 to convince  Maine Health to keep open the Birth Center in Damariscotta, Maine.  Since its founding it has reached out to the larger community and has over 10,000 supporters.  Margaret talked about Maine Health's rationale for closing the birthing center and the impact it will have on women who will have to drive over an hour to get help delivering their babies.  Closure would redirect  births to neighboring hospitals and would increase additional demands on EMTs, emergency departments and affect interfacility transportation systems. She pointed out that leading experts in rural healthcare have warned that evaluating maternity programs through narrow financial lenses risks overlooking their broader contribution to hospital sustainability, workplace recruitment and long term health vitality of communities they serve.  Her organization has reached out to the governor and members of the Maine State Legislature and remains optimistic that the center will ultimately continue to keep open.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-organic-farmers-and-gardeners-association--73624867Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 10, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This podcast is an interview with Heather Spaulding who is the Deputy Director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  Heather  first worked for a number of years on environmental policy issues in Washington, DC. before moving back to Maine where she  got a job at the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association as the director of the Common Ground Country Fair.  She has stayed with the organization moving through various administrative roles.  She is still working to keep toxic items out of watersheds and food systems from commercial pesticides to forever chemicals. The show focused on what's happening with Maine's PFOS Product ban that first took effect January 2026  and how the Trump Administration's EPA voted to approve several new pesticides that qualify as pfas and the recent U.S. Supreme Court 7-2 vote in favor of Monsanto's (Bayer's) Roundup pesticide. Heather also talked about MOFGA's advocacy campaign to convince  Hannaford Supermarket to buy Maine  native grown carrots and  the upcoming Common Ground Fair taking place during the third weekend in September.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73624867Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:30:03 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 10, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. This podcast is an interview with Heather Spaulding who is the Deputy Director of...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 10, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This podcast is an interview with Heather Spaulding who is the Deputy Director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  Heather  first worked for a number of years on environmental policy issues in Washington, DC. before moving back to Maine where she  got a job at the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association as the director of the Common Ground Country Fair.  She has stayed with the organization moving through various administrative roles.  She is still working to keep toxic items out of watersheds and food systems from commercial pesticides to forever chemicals. The show focused on what's happening with Maine's PFOS Product ban that first took effect January 2026  and how the Trump Administration's EPA voted to approve several new pesticides that qualify as pfas and the recent U.S. Supreme Court 7-2 vote in favor of Monsanto's (Bayer's) Roundup pesticide. Heather also talked about MOFGA's advocacy campaign to convince  Hannaford Supermarket to buy Maine  native grown carrots and  the upcoming Common Ground Fair taking place during the third weekend in September.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-healthcare-coverage--74004315Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 3, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show is an interview of James Myall who is a lead policy analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  He has recently written a report  "Maine Care is helping more Mainers afford health care and strengthening the economy."    MaineCare helps nearly 476,00 Mainers pay for health care.  It is one of the most effective tools to improve health, reduce medical debt, support working families and bring in  billions of dollars into Maine's economy. James pointed out that MaineCare is good value for money and helps the economy. The cost of covering an adult below the age of 65 averages around $8,000 per year for comprehensive coverage without copays or deductibles. It certainly compares favorably to Maine's private individual costs - which is about nine thousand in premiums alone.   Unfortunately the next governor of Maine and the state legislature will need to undo Republican cuts that will be made to MaineCare.  As many as 31,000 Mainers could lose their Mainecare coverage next year because they are either unable to find steady work or can't provide the right paperwork to prove their employment status. Myall believes the state should hire navigators to help people understand the new changes needed to keep their coverage. As many as 31,000 Mainers could lose their coverage next year because they are either unable to find steady work or can't provide the right paperwork to prove their employment status.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74004315Mon, 03 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 3, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The show is an interview of James Myall who is a lead policy analyst at the Maine...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 3, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show is an interview of James Myall who is a lead policy analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  He has recently written a report  "Maine Care is helping more Mainers afford health care and strengthening the economy."    MaineCare helps nearly 476,00 Mainers pay for health care.  It is one of the most effective tools to improve health, reduce medical debt, support working families and bring in  billions of dollars into Maine's economy. James pointed out that MaineCare is good value for money and helps the economy. The cost of covering an adult below the age of 65 averages around $8,000 per year for comprehensive coverage without copays or deductibles. It certainly compares favorably to Maine's private individual costs - which is about nine thousand in premiums alone.   Unfortunately the next governor of Maine and the state legislature will need to undo Republican cuts that will be made to MaineCare.  As many as 31,000 Mainers could lose their Mainecare coverage next year because they are either unable to find steady work or can't provide the right paperwork to prove their employment status. Myall believes the state should hire navigators to help people understand the new changes needed to keep their coverage. As many as 31,000 Mainers could lose their coverage next year because they are either unable to find steady work or can't provide the right paperwork to prove their employment status.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dealing-with-ice-in-portland-maine--73149946Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 27, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

Today's program is an interview of Joey Brunnele who is a candidate for the at-large Portland City Council seat being vacated by April Fournier who is moving onto the Maine State Legislature.  Joey has been involved in a number of issues over the past decade and currently serves as the chair  of the Citizen Police Review Board.  The show focused on three different issues that he has written and spoken about recently.  The first is the killing of John Sebastian Guerro - an innocent 26 year old man in Biddeford who was killed by an ICE agent. Joey pointed out this was not an accident. "It is the predictable result of Donald Trump hiring a  bunch of untrained yahoos and white nationalists into ICE and quadrupling its budget."   Joey also talked about how Portland has to hold the cruise industry accountable regarding burning heavy fuel oil which is the dirtiest and cheapest fuel and what can be done about it.  He also talked about the proposed plan to build a 10 megawatt gas-fired power plant to provide electricity and heat to a major redevelopment project on Portland's Waterfront.  As a member of the Portland Climate Action team, Joey talked about why he is opposed to the project,  Building new fossil fuel burning generators will set the city back on its target to reduce 80% of its emissions by 2050.  The proposal is also a major deviation from a master plan for the one billion dollar housing, retail and hotel development project on a 10 acre site of the Portland Company that was approved 10 years ago.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73149946Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 27, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. Today's program is an interview of Joey Brunnele who is a candidate for the at-large...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 27, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

Today's program is an interview of Joey Brunnele who is a candidate for the at-large Portland City Council seat being vacated by April Fournier who is moving onto the Maine State Legislature.  Joey has been involved in a number of issues over the past decade and currently serves as the chair  of the Citizen Police Review Board.  The show focused on three different issues that he has written and spoken about recently.  The first is the killing of John Sebastian Guerro - an innocent 26 year old man in Biddeford who was killed by an ICE agent. Joey pointed out this was not an accident. "It is the predictable result of Donald Trump hiring a  bunch of untrained yahoos and white nationalists into ICE and quadrupling its budget."   Joey also talked about how Portland has to hold the cruise industry accountable regarding burning heavy fuel oil which is the dirtiest and cheapest fuel and what can be done about it.  He also talked about the proposed plan to build a 10 megawatt gas-fired power plant to provide electricity and heat to a major redevelopment project on Portland's Waterfront.  As a member of the Portland Climate Action team, Joey talked about why he is opposed to the project,  Building new fossil fuel burning generators will set the city back on its target to reduce 80% of its emissions by 2050.  The proposal is also a major deviation from a master plan for the one billion dollar housing, retail and hotel development project on a 10 acre site of the Portland Company that was approved 10 years ago.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/flock-cameras-municipal-surveillance-and-privacy--72953143WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of David Boyer who represents Mechanic Falls and part of Poland, ME. in the Maine State Legislature.  He serves on the joint committees on veteran and legal affairs. He talked about why he plans to submit a bill to the Maine Legislature which would ban municipal and police use of automated license plate readers such as Flock  Cameras - statewide, with an exception for toll collection.  He believes these cameras are a significant threat to our constitutional rights to privacy.  The camera data is frequently shared across vast, interconnected networks of thousands of law enforcement agencies and out-of-state entities often without local community consent.  He pointed out this technology captures data on every single driver-not just suspects which creates opportunities for rogue officers and bad actors to illegally stalk or monitor without probable cause or a warrant.  He pointed out that the ACLU has documented instances of local authorities using Flock networks on behalf of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to assist with deportations, as well as tracking drivers crossing state lines to access reproductive healthcare.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72953143Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGWMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview of David Boyer who represents Mechanic Falls and part of Poland, ME. in the Maine State Legislature.  He serves on the...WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of David Boyer who represents Mechanic Falls and part of Poland, ME. in the Maine State Legislature.  He serves on the joint committees on veteran and legal affairs. He talked about why he plans to submit a bill to the Maine Legislature which would ban municipal and police use of automated license plate readers such as Flock  Cameras - statewide, with an exception for toll collection.  He believes these cameras are a significant threat to our constitutional rights to privacy.  The camera data is frequently shared across vast, interconnected networks of thousands of law enforcement agencies and out-of-state entities often without local community consent.  He pointed out this technology captures data on every single driver-not just suspects which creates opportunities for rogue officers and bad actors to illegally stalk or monitor without probable cause or a warrant.  He pointed out that the ACLU has documented instances of local authorities using Flock networks on behalf of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to assist with deportations, as well as tracking drivers crossing state lines to access reproductive healthcare.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/community-neighborhood-associations--72793534Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 13, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


An interview of Tom Blackburn,  the president of the Bayside Neighborhood Association in Portland Maine.  He first briefly talked about the history of the neighborhood which served as a vibrant immigrant gateway.  As industries were developed it  became a melting pot of new Americans - where  Italians, Polish, Jewish, Irish  and Armenians established vibrant neighborhoods around Franklin Street and throughout Bayside.  The "little italy" neighborhood south of Franklin Ave  was particularly cohesive, despite being home to some of the peninsula's poorest residents.  This rich diversity and tradition of welcoming newcomers continues today, with more recent African and other immigrant communities contributing to Bayside’s unique cultural fabric. Over 60 different languages are spoken in this area of the city.  Tom also talked about two ongoing initiatives that the association is undertaking to establish a small 1/2 acre park in this neighborhood and it effort to establish the Bayside Opportunity Center (BOC) which will offer a range of service including language classes, job placement assistance, cultural orientation sessions, events, with a HUB that will offer referral services to appropriate organization sharing their mission with BOC.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72793534Mon, 13 Jul 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 13, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. An interview of Tom Blackburn,  the president of the Bayside Neighborhood...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 13, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


An interview of Tom Blackburn,  the president of the Bayside Neighborhood Association in Portland Maine.  He first briefly talked about the history of the neighborhood which served as a vibrant immigrant gateway.  As industries were developed it  became a melting pot of new Americans - where  Italians, Polish, Jewish, Irish  and Armenians established vibrant neighborhoods around Franklin Street and throughout Bayside.  The "little italy" neighborhood south of Franklin Ave  was particularly cohesive, despite being home to some of the peninsula's poorest residents.  This rich diversity and tradition of welcoming newcomers continues today, with more recent African and other immigrant communities contributing to Bayside’s unique cultural fabric. Over 60 different languages are spoken in this area of the city.  Tom also talked about two ongoing initiatives that the association is undertaking to establish a small 1/2 acre park in this neighborhood and it effort to establish the Bayside Opportunity Center (BOC) which will offer a range of service including language classes, job placement assistance, cultural orientation sessions, events, with a HUB that will offer referral services to appropriate organization sharing their mission with BOC.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ranked-choice-in-voting--72741276Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 6, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This installment is an interview of Ethan Strimling who is a former mayor of Portland, Maine.  He talked about the recent primary election in Maine and how he failed to recognize that the three progressive candidates who were running for Governor were solidly ahead and that progressives would be splitting their vote on the first ballot between Troy Jackson, Hanna Pingree and Shenna Bellows.  He mentioned that once he figured it out,  it was clear that one of them was likely to emerge as the winner  because of rank choice voting.  The only question was  whether these candidates would have the courage to join arms to cross-endorse and actively encourage their supporters to vote for the other two as their second and third choice while also pledging not to attack each other.   Fortunately within two weeks of the election these three candidates cross-endorsed, and actively encouraged their supporters to vote for the other two as their second and third choice while also pledging not to attack each other.   Fully 32,000 of Bellows second place votes went to Jackson and Pingree with less than 10,000 going to Nirav Shah catapulting Pingree into first place even before the final round.  When Jackson and Bellow's votes were then distributed,  Hannah Pingree got another 26.000 votes giving her a double digit win over Shaw. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72741276Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 6, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. This installment is an interview of Ethan Strimling who is a former mayor of...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 6, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This installment is an interview of Ethan Strimling who is a former mayor of Portland, Maine.  He talked about the recent primary election in Maine and how he failed to recognize that the three progressive candidates who were running for Governor were solidly ahead and that progressives would be splitting their vote on the first ballot between Troy Jackson, Hanna Pingree and Shenna Bellows.  He mentioned that once he figured it out,  it was clear that one of them was likely to emerge as the winner  because of rank choice voting.  The only question was  whether these candidates would have the courage to join arms to cross-endorse and actively encourage their supporters to vote for the other two as their second and third choice while also pledging not to attack each other.   Fortunately within two weeks of the election these three candidates cross-endorsed, and actively encouraged their supporters to vote for the other two as their second and third choice while also pledging not to attack each other.   Fully 32,000 of Bellows second place votes went to Jackson and Pingree with less than 10,000 going to Nirav Shah catapulting Pingree into first place even before the final round.  When Jackson and Bellow's votes were then distributed,  Hannah Pingree got another 26.000 votes giving her a double digit win over Shaw. ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-tenant-bill-of-rights--72637145Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 22, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The program is an interview with former Portland  Mayor Ethan Strimling who is an opinion columnist at The Maine Beacon.   The show focused on a recent piece: "A Tenant Bill of Rights" which was published in May 2026.  Ethan talked about why a tenant bill of rights is needed  and what it would include. He pointed that over 300,000 people in the state are renters who live in Maine's 155,000 units.  Most pay more than they can afford.  Rent increases are in double digit numbers well above inflation and raises in pay.  Tenants can be evicted for no reason and most housing affordability solutions in Maine have focused on property tax relief.  The tenant bill of rights would include - Prohibiting no-cause evictions, putting a cap on all rent increases to the rate of inflation, requiring landlords to negotiate with organized tenant unions, and requiring a 90-day notice for all rent increases.  It would also limit security deposits to one month's rent and ban broker application fees to apply for an apartment.  It would also allow tenants to recover legal fees/damages for illegal evictions and require significant civil penalties against landlords for violations.  It would also create a cabinet level office at the state level to protect tenants.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72637145Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 22, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview with former Portland  Mayor Ethan Strimling who is an...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 22, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The program is an interview with former Portland  Mayor Ethan Strimling who is an opinion columnist at The Maine Beacon.   The show focused on a recent piece: "A Tenant Bill of Rights" which was published in May 2026.  Ethan talked about why a tenant bill of rights is needed  and what it would include. He pointed that over 300,000 people in the state are renters who live in Maine's 155,000 units.  Most pay more than they can afford.  Rent increases are in double digit numbers well above inflation and raises in pay.  Tenants can be evicted for no reason and most housing affordability solutions in Maine have focused on property tax relief.  The tenant bill of rights would include - Prohibiting no-cause evictions, putting a cap on all rent increases to the rate of inflation, requiring landlords to negotiate with organized tenant unions, and requiring a 90-day notice for all rent increases.  It would also limit security deposits to one month's rent and ban broker application fees to apply for an apartment.  It would also allow tenants to recover legal fees/damages for illegal evictions and require significant civil penalties against landlords for violations.  It would also create a cabinet level office at the state level to protect tenants.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ongoing-attacks-against-lgbtq-youth--72503143Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 15, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The Program is an interview with Gia Drew, Executive Director of Equality Maine who talked about ongoing attacks against LGBTQ Youth, particularly transgender students in Maine.   Even  though Maine has a history of supporting LGBTQ rights with a 2005 civil rights law, recent political attacks have increased,  targeting transgender youth in schools. She also talked about a ballot initiative that would prohibit transgender students from  competing on teams that did not match their birth sex unless a school offers a co-ed team. It has been challenged and  removed from the November ballot due to invalid signatures and fraudulent collection practices, though the legal process is still ongoing. Gia also emphasized the importance of allies speaking up when they hear discriminatory comments and encouraged young people to report incidents of bias in schools. She also highlighted upcoming Pride events and available support programs for transgender youth in Maine.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72503143Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 15, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The Program is an interview with Gia Drew, Executive Director of Equality Maine who...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired June 15, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The Program is an interview with Gia Drew, Executive Director of Equality Maine who talked about ongoing attacks against LGBTQ Youth, particularly transgender students in Maine.   Even  though Maine has a history of supporting LGBTQ rights with a 2005 civil rights law, recent political attacks have increased,  targeting transgender youth in schools. She also talked about a ballot initiative that would prohibit transgender students from  competing on teams that did not match their birth sex unless a school offers a co-ed team. It has been challenged and  removed from the November ballot due to invalid signatures and fraudulent collection practices, though the legal process is still ongoing. Gia also emphasized the importance of allies speaking up when they hear discriminatory comments and encouraged young people to report incidents of bias in schools. She also highlighted upcoming Pride events and available support programs for transgender youth in Maine.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-s-voter-data-request-denied--72372907Producer & Host: Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State who talked about the ongoing struggle with the Trump Administration over its request  for Maine's sensitive Voter Data and why the request has been denied. She is now engaged in another fight with the Trump  administration over her refusal to hand out covert license  plates to ICE agents who work at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency. During the surge that took place last month, ICE agents detained 190 people; slightly  more than half of those arrests were detained as collateral rather than as targets. Many were  performing  routine daily activities  when agents targeted them. Maine's Attorney General has also  rejected the Department of Justice  demands stating that  Bellow's policy reflects a legitimate and constitutional policy choice not to allow state resources  to be  commandeered by the federal government  for use in civil immigration enforcement activities  that  have resulted in multiple incidents of abusive and unconstitutional  conduct by DHS officials.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72372907Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:30:03 +0000WMPGProducer & Host: Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State who talked about the ongoing struggle with the Trump Administration over its request  for Maine's sensitive Voter Data and why the...Producer & Host: Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State who talked about the ongoing struggle with the Trump Administration over its request  for Maine's sensitive Voter Data and why the request has been denied. She is now engaged in another fight with the Trump  administration over her refusal to hand out covert license  plates to ICE agents who work at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency. During the surge that took place last month, ICE agents detained 190 people; slightly  more than half of those arrests were detained as collateral rather than as targets. Many were  performing  routine daily activities  when agents targeted them. Maine's Attorney General has also  rejected the Department of Justice  demands stating that  Bellow's policy reflects a legitimate and constitutional policy choice not to allow state resources  to be  commandeered by the federal government  for use in civil immigration enforcement activities  that  have resulted in multiple incidents of abusive and unconstitutional  conduct by DHS officials.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/improving-access-to-child-care-programs--72233499https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72233499Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGThe program is an interview of Maine Senator Henry Ingwerson who chairs the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee. He talked about several bills he sponsored that are now law.  LD1728 improves affordability, stability and access in the...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-a-tenant-union-represents-renters-and-advocates--72134661https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72134661Mon, 25 May 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGThe show is an interview of Bradley Davis and Selene Geigester.  They are members of  the Portland, Maine Tenants Union (PTU).   Bradley is a founding and steering committee member.  He gained local prominence after becoming the first tenant to win a...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/publicly-funded-health-care-in-maine--71997636https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71997636Mon, 18 May 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGThe podcast is an interview of Dr. Henk Goorhues who is a member of the Board of Directors of the Maine Medical Association and the Executive Committee and Grayson Lookner, who is a member of the Maine House of Representatives who lives in Portland...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-boys-to-men--71877693Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired May 11, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The program is an interview of Bruce King, the Executive Director of Maine Boys to Men.  Bruce first talked about the problems that boys encounter as they grow up to be men.  Boys are often pressured to conform to traditional masculine ideas.   Many young men feel pressured to suppress emotions and avoid showing vulnerability which can negatively impact mental and emotional well-being.  Bruce also talked about the programming that is offered  at both middle and high school levels that his agency offers to help boys become more empowered to challenge unsafe attitudes and behavior to limit the occurrence of harassment, violence and sexual assault in their schools.  Listeners wanting to know more about the work of the organization are encouraged to attend one of the periodic introductory workshops that the organization holds.  The next one taking place is a virtual panel discussion featuring Shay Steward-Bouley which explores the impact of the online "manosphere" content on boys and young men on the Netflix documentary  "Inside the Manosphere" on May 14 from 6 to 8 pm, ET.  Register:  bit.ly/MBTMpanel3 ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71877693Mon, 11 May 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired May 11, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview of Bruce King, the Executive Director of Maine Boys to...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired May 11, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The program is an interview of Bruce King, the Executive Director of Maine Boys to Men.  Bruce first talked about the problems that boys encounter as they grow up to be men.  Boys are often pressured to conform to traditional masculine ideas.   Many young men feel pressured to suppress emotions and avoid showing vulnerability which can negatively impact mental and emotional well-being.  Bruce also talked about the programming that is offered  at both middle and high school levels that his agency offers to help boys become more empowered to challenge unsafe attitudes and behavior to limit the occurrence of harassment, violence and sexual assault in their schools.  Listeners wanting to know more about the work of the organization are encouraged to attend one of the periodic introductory workshops that the organization holds.  The next one taking place is a virtual panel discussion featuring Shay Steward-Bouley which explores the impact of the online "manosphere" content on boys and young men on the Netflix documentary  "Inside the Manosphere" on May 14 from 6 to 8 pm, ET.  Register:  bit.ly/MBTMpanel3 ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-s-eviction-prevention-pilot-program--71502073Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 27, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of Andrea Steward who is a Policy Analyst at Maine Equal Justice (MEJ).  She talked about the Eviction Prevention Pilot program which was first launched in 2024. The $18 million provided assistance to 1,280 households in Maine with an average income of just $17,000. The people who applied were mainly working and reported going without medical care and food to make ends meet.  They said their  rent/utilities  were going up (46%), they  lost their job (41%)  or had a change in their health status (41%).  Despite the success of the initial pilot program which MEJ believes is a smart targeted investment in housing affordability,  the Maine Legislature recently only voted to  provide $11 million in additional funding to continue this program.   Andrea also briefly talked about Maine's property tax fairness program, who is eligible and how one can apply for the refundable credit.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71502073Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:30:03 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 27, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview of Andrea Steward who is a Policy Analyst at Maine...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 27, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of Andrea Steward who is a Policy Analyst at Maine Equal Justice (MEJ).  She talked about the Eviction Prevention Pilot program which was first launched in 2024. The $18 million provided assistance to 1,280 households in Maine with an average income of just $17,000. The people who applied were mainly working and reported going without medical care and food to make ends meet.  They said their  rent/utilities  were going up (46%), they  lost their job (41%)  or had a change in their health status (41%).  Despite the success of the initial pilot program which MEJ believes is a smart targeted investment in housing affordability,  the Maine Legislature recently only voted to  provide $11 million in additional funding to continue this program.   Andrea also briefly talked about Maine's property tax fairness program, who is eligible and how one can apply for the refundable credit.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-labor-climate-council--71437474Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 20, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD
The podcast  is an interview with Francis Eanes who is the executive director of the Maine Labor Climate Council.   He talked about the Council which is a growing coalition of public and private sector labor unions that are working to address the twin crises of climate change and the broader inequality in the state of Maine.  The Council presently supports the Federal Tax Credit Program which involves a number of solar and wind projects as well as municipal solid waste, geothermal and tidal projects that can offset development costs up to 30%.  The MLCC is also actively working with mobile home park residents to combat steep rent hikes by organizing for rent stabilization and enabling resident ownership of parks.  It is also involved with the Offshore Wind Power Campaign building an offshore wind industry in Maine.   This initiative is being undermined]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71437474Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 20, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD The podcast  is an interview with Francis Eanes who is the executive director of the...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 20, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD
The podcast  is an interview with Francis Eanes who is the executive director of the Maine Labor Climate Council.   He talked about the Council which is a growing coalition of public and private sector labor unions that are working to address the twin crises of climate change and the broader inequality in the state of Maine.  The Council presently supports the Federal Tax Credit Program which involves a number of solar and wind projects as well as municipal solid waste, geothermal and tidal projects that can offset development costs up to 30%.  The MLCC is also actively working with mobile home park residents to combat steep rent hikes by organizing for rent stabilization and enabling resident ownership of parks.  It is also involved with the Offshore Wind Power Campaign building an offshore wind industry in Maine.   This initiative is being undermined]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/facing-up-to-pfas-forever-chemicals--71070932https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71070932Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:30:20 +0000WMPGThe podcast  is an interview of  Marina Schauffler who is a journalist and author of Inescapable: Facing Up to Forever Chemicals which was recently published by John Hopkins University Press.   The book is a schatting indictment of American...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-problem-with-plastic--71070846Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 13, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Melisa Valiant who is the Communication Director at Beyond Plastic, a nationwide project based at Bennington College in Vermont. She talked about a new book, The Problem With Plastic that Judith Enck, the founder and president of  Beyond Plastics has written which was recently published by the New Press.  The book is outstanding for it not only provides a brief history about how and why plastic was first developed, but also how we have become so dependent upon it over the past 100 years. Plastics are now utilized on an everyday basis with over 450 million tons used per year causing widespread plastic pollution.  The corporations that make the plastic blame consumers for the pollution. They have created a strategic narrative that plastic pollution is our fault. If only people changed their habits and law enforcement apprehended all the litterbugs, the plastic pollution problem could be solved.  The book is more than a critique for it not only reveals how microplastics are infiltrating not only the natural world,  but also the human body and emphasizes the urgent need for action against plastic's toxic legacy.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71070846Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:30:12 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 13, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Melisa Valiant who is the Communication Director at...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired April 13, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Melisa Valiant who is the Communication Director at Beyond Plastic, a nationwide project based at Bennington College in Vermont. She talked about a new book, The Problem With Plastic that Judith Enck, the founder and president of  Beyond Plastics has written which was recently published by the New Press.  The book is outstanding for it not only provides a brief history about how and why plastic was first developed, but also how we have become so dependent upon it over the past 100 years. Plastics are now utilized on an everyday basis with over 450 million tons used per year causing widespread plastic pollution.  The corporations that make the plastic blame consumers for the pollution. They have created a strategic narrative that plastic pollution is our fault. If only people changed their habits and law enforcement apprehended all the litterbugs, the plastic pollution problem could be solved.  The book is more than a critique for it not only reveals how microplastics are infiltrating not only the natural world,  but also the human body and emphasizes the urgent need for action against plastic's toxic legacy.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tax-fairness-in-maine--71000179Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 30, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Ryan Tipping who is the Director of Policy and Strategy at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  Ryan is responsible for building and the coordination of MECEP's participation  in a statewide effort partnership working to establish tax fairness.  Ryan talked about what is wrong with the current tax system at the state level in Maine, and what should be done instead.  Currently, there are several bills that have been carried over from last year's legislative session that will establish new high income tax brackets and rates so people with the most wealth will pay more of a fair share,  Currently, Maine's highest tax bracket starts at $64,850, meaning that someone with an income of $650,000 is paying the same rate as someone with an income of $65,000.  The  proposed change would add a new high income tax  bracket and rates so people  with the most wealth would pay more of a fair share and it would also lower the bottom income tax rate from 5.8% to 5.5%.



]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71000179Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 30, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Ryan Tipping who is the Director of Policy and...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 30, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Ryan Tipping who is the Director of Policy and Strategy at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  Ryan is responsible for building and the coordination of MECEP's participation  in a statewide effort partnership working to establish tax fairness.  Ryan talked about what is wrong with the current tax system at the state level in Maine, and what should be done instead.  Currently, there are several bills that have been carried over from last year's legislative session that will establish new high income tax brackets and rates so people with the most wealth will pay more of a fair share,  Currently, Maine's highest tax bracket starts at $64,850, meaning that someone with an income of $650,000 is paying the same rate as someone with an income of $65,000.  The  proposed change would add a new high income tax  bracket and rates so people  with the most wealth would pay more of a fair share and it would also lower the bottom income tax rate from 5.8% to 5.5%.



]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-equal-justice-mej--70780585https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70780585Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGThe podcast is an interview with Robyn Merrill who is the executive director of Maine Equal Justice (MEJ).   Robyn talked about a major program that her agency has developed over the past several years.  The Hope Project  (Higher Opportunity for...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-state-of-the-unions-organized-labor-in-maine-2020-2024--70611462Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 16, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Joseph van der Naald and Kevin Van Meter who are the authors of a recent report which was just published - The State of the Unions: Organized Labor in Maine 2020-2024.  The report is an analysis of the current labor movement in the state of Maine.  The report is primarily focused on industries that have the highest unionization rates and the key benefits that workers receive as union members.  The authors of the report pointed out that Maine union members  make $6 more per hour than non members on average and the union wage premium is even higher for women - $6.80 per hour.  The discussion also focus on how union membership can be expanded in the wholesale and retail trade industry which is currently low and the efforts of the Maine AFL-CIO to encourage folks to organize unions and how the state can attract workers from out of state to address the needs of an aging population especially people who work in the health care service industry.  They also pointed out that the two largest employers have unions:  Hannaford and the State of Maine.  Maine Health Care was historically resistant to union organizing but that was turned around  when the Maine Nurses Association organized and were able to negotiate a strong contract with considerable wage increases an job protections.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70611462Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:30:03 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 16, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Joseph van der Naald and Kevin Van Meter who are the...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 16, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Joseph van der Naald and Kevin Van Meter who are the authors of a recent report which was just published - The State of the Unions: Organized Labor in Maine 2020-2024.  The report is an analysis of the current labor movement in the state of Maine.  The report is primarily focused on industries that have the highest unionization rates and the key benefits that workers receive as union members.  The authors of the report pointed out that Maine union members  make $6 more per hour than non members on average and the union wage premium is even higher for women - $6.80 per hour.  The discussion also focus on how union membership can be expanded in the wholesale and retail trade industry which is currently low and the efforts of the Maine AFL-CIO to encourage folks to organize unions and how the state can attract workers from out of state to address the needs of an aging population especially people who work in the health care service industry.  They also pointed out that the two largest employers have unions:  Hannaford and the State of Maine.  Maine Health Care was historically resistant to union organizing but that was turned around  when the Maine Nurses Association organized and were able to negotiate a strong contract with considerable wage increases an job protections.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-farming-financial-strain-and-federal-funding-freezes--70463629Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 9, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast for  March 9,  2026 is an interview of Sarah Alexander, the Executive Director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  She talked about how Maine Farmers have encountered financial strain resulting from the federal funding freezes and cuts that have been made and how MOFGA as a last resort had to lay off six full time staff members. Fortunately the layoffs have not affected MOFGA's most important programs such as farmer technical assistance, the Common Ground Fair and PFAS support.  Sarah also talked about Maine's new comprehensive ban on PFAS-containing consumer products which took effect on January 1, 2026. MOFGA advocated for this  legislation and continues to work to protect it against attacks aimed at weakening or eliminating it.  This new consumer law prohibits the sale or distribution of  a number of consumer products such as cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, juvenile products, menstruation products and upholstered furniture that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals.  This landmark legislation positions Maine as a national leader in protecting public health from "forever chemicals" that accumulate in human bodies and the environment.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70463629Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 9, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast for  March 9,  2026 is an interview of Sarah Alexander, the Executive...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 9, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast for  March 9,  2026 is an interview of Sarah Alexander, the Executive Director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  She talked about how Maine Farmers have encountered financial strain resulting from the federal funding freezes and cuts that have been made and how MOFGA as a last resort had to lay off six full time staff members. Fortunately the layoffs have not affected MOFGA's most important programs such as farmer technical assistance, the Common Ground Fair and PFAS support.  Sarah also talked about Maine's new comprehensive ban on PFAS-containing consumer products which took effect on January 1, 2026. MOFGA advocated for this  legislation and continues to work to protect it against attacks aimed at weakening or eliminating it.  This new consumer law prohibits the sale or distribution of  a number of consumer products such as cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, juvenile products, menstruation products and upholstered furniture that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals.  This landmark legislation positions Maine as a national leader in protecting public health from "forever chemicals" that accumulate in human bodies and the environment.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-1987-1988-international-paper-strike--70310785Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 2, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show Linda Deane who is the President of the Western  Maine Labor Council and two other union members  who were involved in the 1987-1988 International Paper Strike in Jay,Maine which  was a bitter 16 month labor dispute involving 1,200 UPIU Local 14 members.  The strike was triggered by International Paper, the world 's largest paper company's  demands for concessions from union members.  The strike was organized against the company's attempt to impose a new contract that cut jobs, reduced wages, ended the closed shop, and radically transformed existing working conditions and practices.  The strike was a defining moment for labor in Maine, characterized by a "work-to-rule" strategy and the use of a local union band to keep spirits high, and intense community solidarity against IP's demands.  The passionate fight of the Jay paper-workers against IP demands sent shock waves throughout the entire labor movement. It also gave a boost to Jesse Jackson's presidential campaign.  He spoke at the union hall while engaged in the 1988 presidential campaign and finished a strong second in Maine carrying many mill towns  and helped spark a national corporate campaign against IP.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70310785Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:30:05 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 2, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The show Linda Deane who is the President of the Western  Maine Labor Council and...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired March 2, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show Linda Deane who is the President of the Western  Maine Labor Council and two other union members  who were involved in the 1987-1988 International Paper Strike in Jay,Maine which  was a bitter 16 month labor dispute involving 1,200 UPIU Local 14 members.  The strike was triggered by International Paper, the world 's largest paper company's  demands for concessions from union members.  The strike was organized against the company's attempt to impose a new contract that cut jobs, reduced wages, ended the closed shop, and radically transformed existing working conditions and practices.  The strike was a defining moment for labor in Maine, characterized by a "work-to-rule" strategy and the use of a local union band to keep spirits high, and intense community solidarity against IP's demands.  The passionate fight of the Jay paper-workers against IP demands sent shock waves throughout the entire labor movement. It also gave a boost to Jesse Jackson's presidential campaign.  He spoke at the union hall while engaged in the 1988 presidential campaign and finished a strong second in Maine carrying many mill towns  and helped spark a national corporate campaign against IP.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-s-women-lobby--70154733Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 23, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast for February 23, 2026 is an interview of Destie Hoffman Sprague who is the Executive Director of the Maine's Women Lobby.  The show focused  on a referendum question that will be on the Maine ballot this coming fall which would restrict transgender students' access to school sports and facilities.   Destie first talked about why the League is involved in this issue and why it has joined a coalition to defeat the proposal.  The coalition contends the referendum will increase bullying and harassment, cost schools millions in potential ligation and undermine public education. According to Destie the referendum is spearheaded by the group Protect Girls Support in Maine which seeks to  mandate sports by sex,  requiring public school students to play on sports teams based on the sex listed on their birth certificates.  Destie believes the effort to restrict transgender students from playing sports in Maine is primarily driven by the Trump Administration which has threatened to pull federal education funding if the state does not ban transgender girls from female sports.   Maine's Governor, Janet Mills, Attorney General Aaron Frey, and the Maine Principals' Association are opposed.  In closing,  Destie encouraged  listeners to get involved in the fight to defeat this measure. which would undermine Maine's existing Human Rights Act which protects gender identity.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70154733Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:30:12 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 23, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast for February 23, 2026 is an interview of Destie Hoffman Sprague who...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 23, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast for February 23, 2026 is an interview of Destie Hoffman Sprague who is the Executive Director of the Maine's Women Lobby.  The show focused  on a referendum question that will be on the Maine ballot this coming fall which would restrict transgender students' access to school sports and facilities.   Destie first talked about why the League is involved in this issue and why it has joined a coalition to defeat the proposal.  The coalition contends the referendum will increase bullying and harassment, cost schools millions in potential ligation and undermine public education. According to Destie the referendum is spearheaded by the group Protect Girls Support in Maine which seeks to  mandate sports by sex,  requiring public school students to play on sports teams based on the sex listed on their birth certificates.  Destie believes the effort to restrict transgender students from playing sports in Maine is primarily driven by the Trump Administration which has threatened to pull federal education funding if the state does not ban transgender girls from female sports.   Maine's Governor, Janet Mills, Attorney General Aaron Frey, and the Maine Principals' Association are opposed.  In closing,  Destie encouraged  listeners to get involved in the fight to defeat this measure. which would undermine Maine's existing Human Rights Act which protects gender identity.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/voter-rights-in-maine--70047675Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 16, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast is an interview with Shenna Bellows, the Maine Secretary of State, who has been an outstanding champion of voter rights in Maine, and over the years has helped prevent efforts to reduce the rights of voters in the state.  Shenna talked about President Trump's efforts to nationalize elections and how his supporters on the House Committee on Administration recently introduced  "The Make  Elections Again Great,"  an 83 page bill that would impose new federal standards on elections which would override state and local elections laws.  Shenna is also a candidate running to serve as the new governor of Maine and  briefly talked about several issues that need to be addressed such as the housing affordability crisis, tribal sovereignty, federal attacks on food assistance, health care and immigration, rising energy costs and what can be done to assist Maine to get the transportation system it needs.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70047675Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 16, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview with Shenna Bellows, the Maine Secretary of State,...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 16, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast is an interview with Shenna Bellows, the Maine Secretary of State, who has been an outstanding champion of voter rights in Maine, and over the years has helped prevent efforts to reduce the rights of voters in the state.  Shenna talked about President Trump's efforts to nationalize elections and how his supporters on the House Committee on Administration recently introduced  "The Make  Elections Again Great,"  an 83 page bill that would impose new federal standards on elections which would override state and local elections laws.  Shenna is also a candidate running to serve as the new governor of Maine and  briefly talked about several issues that need to be addressed such as the housing affordability crisis, tribal sovereignty, federal attacks on food assistance, health care and immigration, rising energy costs and what can be done to assist Maine to get the transportation system it needs.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/notes-of-a-black-american-reckoning--69747464Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 9, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast for February 9  is a conversation with Professor Anthony Walton who is the author of several books including a collection of essays titled -  The End of Respectability: Notes of a Black American Reckoning With His Life And His Nation which was published in 2024.  He is a recognized author, editor and educator who  serves as a professor and writer-in-residence at Bowdoin College.   Anthony first talked about how Blacks have made steps forward such as serving as equals in WWII only to find themselves three steps back.  He admits that life has improved for many African Americans.  Each time the nation attempt to deal with racism, however  we enact a series of pantomimes and  feints that provide just enough wiggle room for a small percentage of blacks to take a few steps forward in our society, but allows many or most whites to evade any serious accounting of what has happened, what is happening and what needs to be done to move towards an equitable future.  He believes we are locked in a loop of our own making and are always in a state of reconstruction and fears that this pattern will never end.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69747464Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:30:02 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 9, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast for February 9  is a conversation with Professor Anthony Walton who...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 9, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast for February 9  is a conversation with Professor Anthony Walton who is the author of several books including a collection of essays titled -  The End of Respectability: Notes of a Black American Reckoning With His Life And His Nation which was published in 2024.  He is a recognized author, editor and educator who  serves as a professor and writer-in-residence at Bowdoin College.   Anthony first talked about how Blacks have made steps forward such as serving as equals in WWII only to find themselves three steps back.  He admits that life has improved for many African Americans.  Each time the nation attempt to deal with racism, however  we enact a series of pantomimes and  feints that provide just enough wiggle room for a small percentage of blacks to take a few steps forward in our society, but allows many or most whites to evade any serious accounting of what has happened, what is happening and what needs to be done to move towards an equitable future.  He believes we are locked in a loop of our own making and are always in a state of reconstruction and fears that this pattern will never end.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/senator-mike-tipping-maine-legislative-accomplishments--69649074Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 2, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This week's podcast is an interview of Senator Mike Tipping  who is serving his second term in the Maine Legislature representing District 8  which includes a number of communities, township, plantations and  Penobscot Indian Island.    As chair of the Joint House/Senate Labor Committee, Senator Tipping talked about new labor bills that have  been considered and  passed into law during the 132nd legislative session.  This includes a  number of bills  which raise the minimum wage for  agricultural workers to $15.10 per hour, paid family and Medical Leave which was established in 2023, benefits are officially scheduled to become accessible on May 1, 2026 and minimum pay for reporting. Employers with 10 or more employees must pay workers for at least 2 hours if a shift is canceled or shortened without proper notice,   Tipping also talked about the new law that was passed last spring placing a one-year moratorium on the purchase of hospitals by private equity firms while a newly-formed Commission he chaired further studied the issue throughout the fall and winter of 2024-2025.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69649074Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:00:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 2, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. This week's podcast is an interview of Senator Mike Tipping  who is serving his...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired February 2, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This week's podcast is an interview of Senator Mike Tipping  who is serving his second term in the Maine Legislature representing District 8  which includes a number of communities, township, plantations and  Penobscot Indian Island.    As chair of the Joint House/Senate Labor Committee, Senator Tipping talked about new labor bills that have  been considered and  passed into law during the 132nd legislative session.  This includes a  number of bills  which raise the minimum wage for  agricultural workers to $15.10 per hour, paid family and Medical Leave which was established in 2023, benefits are officially scheduled to become accessible on May 1, 2026 and minimum pay for reporting. Employers with 10 or more employees must pay workers for at least 2 hours if a shift is canceled or shortened without proper notice,   Tipping also talked about the new law that was passed last spring placing a one-year moratorium on the purchase of hospitals by private equity firms while a newly-formed Commission he chaired further studied the issue throughout the fall and winter of 2024-2025.  ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/environmental-risks-from-the-use-of-synthetic-turf--69563979Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 26, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Representative Lori Gramlich who is serving her fourth term in the Maine House of Representatives.  She is also the Assistant House Majority Leader and previously served as the chair of the Legislature' Environment and Natural Resource Committee.  She talked about a number of bills that the legislature is considering including LD 1177 which was passed by both houses of the legislature, but was  carried over from last year's session in order to find funds to study the public health and environmental risks from the use of Synthetic Turf .  She talked  about some of the concerns that people have regarding the use of artificial grass.  Recent research has detected chemicals in the synaptic grass blades, infill and cushioning which can be transferred to students' skin during play.  There is also the problem of extreme heat. Artificial surfaces in Maine have been measured over 160 degrees F on sunny days. Representative Gramlich also talked about several other bills as well as a resolve to study Maine's Absolute Dominion and beneficial use laws relating to Water Rights.   Currently,  corporations  are able to extract water and profit from it even though the water may be flowing from other public and private property in the area. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69563979Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:30:09 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 26, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Representative Lori Gramlich who is serving her...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 26, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Representative Lori Gramlich who is serving her fourth term in the Maine House of Representatives.  She is also the Assistant House Majority Leader and previously served as the chair of the Legislature' Environment and Natural Resource Committee.  She talked about a number of bills that the legislature is considering including LD 1177 which was passed by both houses of the legislature, but was  carried over from last year's session in order to find funds to study the public health and environmental risks from the use of Synthetic Turf .  She talked  about some of the concerns that people have regarding the use of artificial grass.  Recent research has detected chemicals in the synaptic grass blades, infill and cushioning which can be transferred to students' skin during play.  There is also the problem of extreme heat. Artificial surfaces in Maine have been measured over 160 degrees F on sunny days. Representative Gramlich also talked about several other bills as well as a resolve to study Maine's Absolute Dominion and beneficial use laws relating to Water Rights.   Currently,  corporations  are able to extract water and profit from it even though the water may be flowing from other public and private property in the area. ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/suicidal-ideation-and-treatment-utilization-among-young-adults-aged-18-25--69489222Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 19, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Afroze N. Shaikh who is an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Psychology in the College of Education at the University of Texas in Austin.  She talked about  a recent article that she and two other colleagues have written -  "Impact of  Social Determinants of Health and Individual Characteristics on Suicidal Ideation and Treatment Utilization Among Young Adults Aged 18-25."    Their research findings point out that suicidal ideation is more likely among individuals with less education, rural residence, housing instability, exposure to community drug activity and infrequent religious service attendance.   It underscores the urgent need for public health strategies that address the structural and environmental barriers to mental health support.  Interventions that are focused on improving community safety, educational opportunities, economic supports and access to care, are critical for reducing suicide risk and enhancing treatment utilization in this vulnerable population.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69489222Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 19, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Afroze N. Shaikh who is an assistant professor in...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 19, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Afroze N. Shaikh who is an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Psychology in the College of Education at the University of Texas in Austin.  She talked about  a recent article that she and two other colleagues have written -  "Impact of  Social Determinants of Health and Individual Characteristics on Suicidal Ideation and Treatment Utilization Among Young Adults Aged 18-25."    Their research findings point out that suicidal ideation is more likely among individuals with less education, rural residence, housing instability, exposure to community drug activity and infrequent religious service attendance.   It underscores the urgent need for public health strategies that address the structural and environmental barriers to mental health support.  Interventions that are focused on improving community safety, educational opportunities, economic supports and access to care, are critical for reducing suicide risk and enhancing treatment utilization in this vulnerable population.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/state-of-working-maine-2025-strengthening-economic-opportunity-in-rural-communities-and-beyond--69357804Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 12, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of James Myall, a lead policy analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy, He recently issued a new report - "State of Working Maine 2025: Strengthening Economic Opportunity in Rural Communities and Beyond". He talked about  how the metro Portland area is the most prosperous and economically dynamic part of the state and how the gap between Portland and northern and western Maine has significantly widened since 2001 due in part to federal and state responses to periods of recession.  Rural Mainers continue to face higher unemployment and lower labor force participation. Limited access to child care, health challenges, and seasonal or part-time work continue to keep many people out of  the workforce.   He talked about what can be done  and pointed out  that economic development strategies for rural areas often focus on attracting large employers through tax incentives.  However,  research consistently shows that these programs have little impact on employers' decisions to relocate.  He also pointed out that carve outs for small employers in Maine's labor protections may help small businesses compete for workers, but it overlooks the harm that it inflicts on workers.  In creating these carve outs lawmakers are creating greater economic hardship for rural Mainers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69357804Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 12, 2026 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of James Myall, a lead policy analyst at the Maine...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired January 12, 2026
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of James Myall, a lead policy analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy, He recently issued a new report - "State of Working Maine 2025: Strengthening Economic Opportunity in Rural Communities and Beyond". He talked about  how the metro Portland area is the most prosperous and economically dynamic part of the state and how the gap between Portland and northern and western Maine has significantly widened since 2001 due in part to federal and state responses to periods of recession.  Rural Mainers continue to face higher unemployment and lower labor force participation. Limited access to child care, health challenges, and seasonal or part-time work continue to keep many people out of  the workforce.   He talked about what can be done  and pointed out  that economic development strategies for rural areas often focus on attracting large employers through tax incentives.  However,  research consistently shows that these programs have little impact on employers' decisions to relocate.  He also pointed out that carve outs for small employers in Maine's labor protections may help small businesses compete for workers, but it overlooks the harm that it inflicts on workers.  In creating these carve outs lawmakers are creating greater economic hardship for rural Mainers.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/international-physicians-for-the-prevention-of-nuclear-war--69263064Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Ira Helfand who is the past president of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War.  He is also a member of the international steering group for the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.  Ira talked about why it is past time to pursue a verifiable agreement among nuclear armed states to eliminate their nuclear arsenals.  This coming January 22 marks the date that the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)  entered into force in 2021 legally banning these weapons.  The TPNW makes it illegal for signatory states to develop, test, produce, stockpile, or use nuclear weapons, creating a comprehensive ban on these weapons, though nuclear-armed states and their allies have not joined.  This includes the U.S as well as eight other nation  states.  Ira also talked about how listeners can get involved in the effort to abolish nuclear weapons.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69263064Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:30:08 +0000WMPGProducer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Ira Helfand who is the past president of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War.  He is also a member of the international steering group for the...Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Ira Helfand who is the past president of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War.  He is also a member of the international steering group for the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.  Ira talked about why it is past time to pursue a verifiable agreement among nuclear armed states to eliminate their nuclear arsenals.  This coming January 22 marks the date that the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)  entered into force in 2021 legally banning these weapons.  The TPNW makes it illegal for signatory states to develop, test, produce, stockpile, or use nuclear weapons, creating a comprehensive ban on these weapons, though nuclear-armed states and their allies have not joined.  This includes the U.S as well as eight other nation  states.  Ira also talked about how listeners can get involved in the effort to abolish nuclear weapons.  ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/america-an-increasingly-dangerous-place-for-women-and-girls--69185742Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The program  is an interview of Carrie Baker, who is a professor and chair of the program for the study of women and gender at Smith College.  She recently wrote an op ed  "America is an increasingly dangerous place for women and girls".  She talked about the current situation that women are facing today regarding sexual violence and physical violence and the role that fire arms play in abusive relationships. Abortion bans that have been passed by male dominant state legislatures are also endangering women's lives and increasing maternal mortality.   She also discussed how  the Trump administration is reducing access to reproductive health care and family planning services.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69185742Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:30:09 +0000WMPGProducer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program  is an interview of Carrie Baker, who is a professor and chair of the program for the study of women and gender at Smith College.  She recently wrote an op ed  "America is an increasingly...Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The program  is an interview of Carrie Baker, who is a professor and chair of the program for the study of women and gender at Smith College.  She recently wrote an op ed  "America is an increasingly dangerous place for women and girls".  She talked about the current situation that women are facing today regarding sexual violence and physical violence and the role that fire arms play in abusive relationships. Abortion bans that have been passed by male dominant state legislatures are also endangering women's lives and increasing maternal mortality.   She also discussed how  the Trump administration is reducing access to reproductive health care and family planning services.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rachel-flehinger-and-activate-maine--69125796Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 22, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast is an interview of Rachel Flehinger who has created a new organization called Activate Maine.   Her background includes teaching performance art in New York City and serving as the morning radio host on WPOR 101.9 FM.  She talked about her new endeavor which makes it easier for  Mainers to show up,  stay informed and support each other, without relying on social media algorithms or scattered information. She and a number of volunteers put together a weekly list of actions and activities   The organization's website also contains a  description of  the organizations that are involved in a variety of community activities.  (https://www.activatemaine.com)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69125796Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 22, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Rachel Flehinger who has created a new...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 22, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.


The podcast is an interview of Rachel Flehinger who has created a new organization called Activate Maine.   Her background includes teaching performance art in New York City and serving as the morning radio host on WPOR 101.9 FM.  She talked about her new endeavor which makes it easier for  Mainers to show up,  stay informed and support each other, without relying on social media algorithms or scattered information. She and a number of volunteers put together a weekly list of actions and activities   The organization's website also contains a  description of  the organizations that are involved in a variety of community activities.  (https://www.activatemaine.com)]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ai-surveillance-cameras-in-maine--68997956Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 15, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Dylan Oliver, a native of Hodgson, Maine who is a staff member of the Alliance for Secure AI.  Dylan talked about how a number of communities in the state have installed AI surveillance cameras which log and store every single car that passes by a given location, creating a searchable database of our movements regardless of whether anyone is  suspected of a crime or not. He also talked about how the data can be shared with federal and local agencies for  "investigative purposes" even if a local police department chooses  to restrict data to its own officers.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68997956Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 15, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Dylan Oliver, a native of Hodgson, Maine who is a...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 15, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Dylan Oliver, a native of Hodgson, Maine who is a staff member of the Alliance for Secure AI.  Dylan talked about how a number of communities in the state have installed AI surveillance cameras which log and store every single car that passes by a given location, creating a searchable database of our movements regardless of whether anyone is  suspected of a crime or not. He also talked about how the data can be shared with federal and local agencies for  "investigative purposes" even if a local police department chooses  to restrict data to its own officers.  ]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-s-efforts-to-ban-trans-students--68887647Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 8, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Gia Drew who is the executive director of Equality Maine   She talked about the latest efforts to ban transgender students from bathrooms, locker rooms, and athletic teams and recognizing only two sexes: biological male and biological female according to the court filing.  Maine's Human Rights Commission is currently suing  five school districts.  It's the first time in recent memory that the Commission that enforces Maine's Human Rights Act has gone straight to court to enforce the law instead of rendering  its own complaint. Gia also talked about the latest Republican effort.  It is involved in the Protect Girls Sports in Maine Referendum campaign which is collecting signatures to put the question on the ballot next fall.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68887647Mon, 08 Dec 2025 18:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 8, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Gia Drew who is the executive director of Equality...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired December 8, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Gia Drew who is the executive director of Equality Maine   She talked about the latest efforts to ban transgender students from bathrooms, locker rooms, and athletic teams and recognizing only two sexes: biological male and biological female according to the court filing.  Maine's Human Rights Commission is currently suing  five school districts.  It's the first time in recent memory that the Commission that enforces Maine's Human Rights Act has gone straight to court to enforce the law instead of rendering  its own complaint. Gia also talked about the latest Republican effort.  It is involved in the Protect Girls Sports in Maine Referendum campaign which is collecting signatures to put the question on the ballot next fall.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/evangelical-lutheran-church-lawsuit-against-the-u-s-department-of-homeland-security-dhs--68662972Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 24, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Reverend Nathan Pepo who is the Bishop of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.  He talked about the church's progressive stances on a number of issues such as its commitment to social justice and the recent lawsuit filed against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Secretary Kristi Noem regarding Ice Agents seizing immigrants on church property.  For over 30 years, the Federal Government restricted immigration enforcement at houses of  worship and other sensitive locations, acknowledging that to carry out raids, arrest and surveillance at those locations could deny people of faith access to their places of worship and violate religious freedom rights. The current actions have caused church attendance to decrease, forced congregations to lock their doors, and silenced the ministries that make worship communities safe for all people, regardless of their immigration status.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68662972Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 24, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Reverend Nathan Pepo who is the Bishop of the New...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 24, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
The podcast is an interview of Reverend Nathan Pepo who is the Bishop of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.  He talked about the church's progressive stances on a number of issues such as its commitment to social justice and the recent lawsuit filed against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Secretary Kristi Noem regarding Ice Agents seizing immigrants on church property.  For over 30 years, the Federal Government restricted immigration enforcement at houses of  worship and other sensitive locations, acknowledging that to carry out raids, arrest and surveillance at those locations could deny people of faith access to their places of worship and violate religious freedom rights. The current actions have caused church attendance to decrease, forced congregations to lock their doors, and silenced the ministries that make worship communities safe for all people, regardless of their immigration status.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/good-shepherd-food-bank-maine-s-food-insecurity--68544537Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 17, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Heather Patuett who is the CEO of  the Good Shepherd Food Bank which provides food assistance to over 600 agencies in the state. Heather talked about this work and how the ongoing delay in providing SNAP benefits is having on people living in Maine.  Nearly 170,000 forks currently receive benefits.  At 13.8% of the population, Maine's food insecurity rate is higher than the national average and includes 50,000 children which is the highest rate of child food insecurity in New England.  She also talked about the Governor's plan to release $1.25 million to help offset food banks SNAP  losses and that the State Attorney General  Aaron Fry  has joined a multistage lawsuit seeking to force the Trump Administration to use $5 billion in contingency funding approved by Congress to continue providing benefits under SNAP.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68544537Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 17, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Heather Patuett who is the CEO of  the Good Shepherd...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 17, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Heather Patuett who is the CEO of  the Good Shepherd Food Bank which provides food assistance to over 600 agencies in the state. Heather talked about this work and how the ongoing delay in providing SNAP benefits is having on people living in Maine.  Nearly 170,000 forks currently receive benefits.  At 13.8% of the population, Maine's food insecurity rate is higher than the national average and includes 50,000 children which is the highest rate of child food insecurity in New England.  She also talked about the Governor's plan to release $1.25 million to help offset food banks SNAP  losses and that the State Attorney General  Aaron Fry  has joined a multistage lawsuit seeking to force the Trump Administration to use $5 billion in contingency funding approved by Congress to continue providing benefits under SNAP.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-the-rich-and-powerful-do-not-pay-taxes--68452911Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 10, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show is an interview of Ray Madoff who is the author  of "The Second Estate: How the Tax Code Made an American Aristocracy," which was recently published by the University of Chicago Press.   She talked about how the rich and powerful in the United States are able to manage not paying taxes. Besides not taking a salary, they are able to acquire wealth through inheritances and the investments they make.  The ultra rich primarily grow their wealth through asset appreciation which is generally not taxed until the asset is sold and can be avoided entirely if held until death whereas working American wages are taxed immediately.  She also talked about what can be done instead going forward such as taxing the recipients of inheritances under the income tax system and taxing  unrealized gains at death on the final income tax return of the decedent.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68452911Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 10, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The show is an interview of Ray Madoff who is the author  of "The Second...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired November 10, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The show is an interview of Ray Madoff who is the author  of "The Second Estate: How the Tax Code Made an American Aristocracy," which was recently published by the University of Chicago Press.   She talked about how the rich and powerful in the United States are able to manage not paying taxes. Besides not taking a salary, they are able to acquire wealth through inheritances and the investments they make.  The ultra rich primarily grow their wealth through asset appreciation which is generally not taxed until the asset is sold and can be avoided entirely if held until death whereas working American wages are taxed immediately.  She also talked about what can be done instead going forward such as taxing the recipients of inheritances under the income tax system and taxing  unrealized gains at death on the final income tax return of the decedent.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/healthcare-changes-to-affordable-care-act-in-maine--68373391Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 3, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of  Hillary Schneider who is the Director of the Health Insurance Marketplace in the Maine Department of Health and Human Service.  The show focused on the expiration of the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits which will roll back financial assistance for millions of Americans who purchase health insurance through the ACA marketplace and what Mainers can do about it.  The premium tax credit enhancements also help people buy coverage on their own when employers don't provide it.   This includes part-time workers, gig workers, small business owners, self-employed people and people who work in industries that don't usually provide health benefits.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68373391Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 3, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of  Hillary Schneider who is the Director of the Health...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Nov 3, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of  Hillary Schneider who is the Director of the Health Insurance Marketplace in the Maine Department of Health and Human Service.  The show focused on the expiration of the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits which will roll back financial assistance for millions of Americans who purchase health insurance through the ACA marketplace and what Mainers can do about it.  The premium tax credit enhancements also help people buy coverage on their own when employers don't provide it.   This includes part-time workers, gig workers, small business owners, self-employed people and people who work in industries that don't usually provide health benefits.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/raising-the-minimum-wage-in-portland-me--68268791Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 27, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of James Myall who is a Senior Policy Analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  He has recently written an "Analysis of the Proposed Minimum Wage Increases for the City of Portland, 2026-2028."  He talked about why there is a need to raise the minimum wage in Portland which is currently $15.50 per hour to $19 in 2028.  He described which group of workers would benefit the most:  women, workers of color, and workers under the age of 25 and workers over the age of 65.   He also briefly mentioned the long term effects on the economy and who is behind the effort to defeat the proposed ballot question and why they are opposed.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68268791Mon, 27 Oct 2025 17:30:43 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 27, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of James Myall who is a Senior Policy Analyst at the...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 27, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of James Myall who is a Senior Policy Analyst at the Maine Center for Economic Policy.  He has recently written an "Analysis of the Proposed Minimum Wage Increases for the City of Portland, 2026-2028."  He talked about why there is a need to raise the minimum wage in Portland which is currently $15.50 per hour to $19 in 2028.  He described which group of workers would benefit the most:  women, workers of color, and workers under the age of 25 and workers over the age of 65.   He also briefly mentioned the long term effects on the economy and who is behind the effort to defeat the proposed ballot question and why they are opposed.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/portland-maine-s-rent-control-success--68183554Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 20, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Ethan Strimling, a former Mayor of Portland who talked about why Portland, Maine's  rent control is saving renters $500 a month thanks to the ordinance which was first passed in November 2020.  He also talked about the latest effort by the Greater Portland Board of Realtors to undermine the effort to make housing more affordable and stable for tenants.  He talked about the  recent study which was commissioned  by the GPBR which claims homeowners are paying more in taxes because of the ordinance.  At most, it could cost 60 cents more per day,  but even that is questionable.  An independent study is needed to  determine what effect, if any, rent control is having on the value of housing in Portland.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68183554Mon, 20 Oct 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 20, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Ethan Strimling, a former Mayor of Portland who...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 20, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Ethan Strimling, a former Mayor of Portland who talked about why Portland, Maine's  rent control is saving renters $500 a month thanks to the ordinance which was first passed in November 2020.  He also talked about the latest effort by the Greater Portland Board of Realtors to undermine the effort to make housing more affordable and stable for tenants.  He talked about the  recent study which was commissioned  by the GPBR which claims homeowners are paying more in taxes because of the ordinance.  At most, it could cost 60 cents more per day,  but even that is questionable.  An independent study is needed to  determine what effect, if any, rent control is having on the value of housing in Portland.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/union-pathways-of-maine--68119795Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 13, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview with Sam Boss, the Maine AFL-CIO Apprenticeship, Work Force & Equity Director.  Sam talked about the new exciting program which is being launched called the Union Pathways of Maine.  This new effort builds on the success of the Union Construction Academy Pre- Apprenticeship Program which has trained diverse workers across the state.  The new program will serve as an entry point for job seekers  who want to pursue stable, unionized careers while developing a diverse pipeline of future union members who understand the values behind being part of the broader labor movement in Maine and the nation.  The program is free to attend and will most likely be offered several times going forward.  The program is open to folks who have completed high school or  have an equivalent education.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68119795Mon, 13 Oct 2025 17:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 13, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview with Sam Boss, the Maine AFL-CIO Apprenticeship, Work...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 13, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview with Sam Boss, the Maine AFL-CIO Apprenticeship, Work Force & Equity Director.  Sam talked about the new exciting program which is being launched called the Union Pathways of Maine.  This new effort builds on the success of the Union Construction Academy Pre- Apprenticeship Program which has trained diverse workers across the state.  The new program will serve as an entry point for job seekers  who want to pursue stable, unionized careers while developing a diverse pipeline of future union members who understand the values behind being part of the broader labor movement in Maine and the nation.  The program is free to attend and will most likely be offered several times going forward.  The program is open to folks who have completed high school or  have an equivalent education.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-s-secretary-of-state-what-the-job-entails--68031495Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 6, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.The show interviews Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State. The show focused on how she first got involved in the work that she currently does as one of the three constitutional officers of Maine State Government. She described her key responsibilities and the role that she plays in the state's election process including writing the questions which appear on the state ballot. She also talked   about the controversy regarding question one on the ballot in November. She explained why Republicans were opposed and the Maine Supreme Court decision affirming the ballot language. In closing, she assured listeners that the agency has both systems and procedures in place to ensure Maine’s elections are free, fair, and secure.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68031495Mon, 06 Oct 2025 17:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 6, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.The show interviews Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State. The show focused on...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired October 6, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.The show interviews Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State. The show focused on how she first got involved in the work that she currently does as one of the three constitutional officers of Maine State Government. She described her key responsibilities and the role that she plays in the state's election process including writing the questions which appear on the state ballot. She also talked   about the controversy regarding question one on the ballot in November. She explained why Republicans were opposed and the Maine Supreme Court decision affirming the ballot language. In closing, she assured listeners that the agency has both systems and procedures in place to ensure Maine’s elections are free, fair, and secure.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/community-voices-for-change-9-29-2025-final--67915892Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 29, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Seth Berry who is a leading critic of Central Maine Power Company.  He was the lead House sponsor of LD1708, the Maine bill to create a consumer owned electric utility company.  The show today focused on Central Maine Power's latest efforts to raise electric rates by over $1.4 billion dollars over the next 5 years.  Seth pointed out that there is a need for investments to keep the grid reliable and to replace old equipment, but Maine families can't afford more "eye popping rate hikes."  He agrees that there is a need for new investments,  but the money should come from a reduction in the "company's inflated, risk-free profits - not from the deflated pockets of hardworking Mainers." He urged listeners to go to the PUC's website and send a comment to let the Commissioners know how the proposed hike will affect you and your family and that you can't afford to pay an extra  $420  per year for electricity.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67915892Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 29, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast is an interview of Seth Berry who is a leading critic of Central Maine...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 29, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast is an interview of Seth Berry who is a leading critic of Central Maine Power Company.  He was the lead House sponsor of LD1708, the Maine bill to create a consumer owned electric utility company.  The show today focused on Central Maine Power's latest efforts to raise electric rates by over $1.4 billion dollars over the next 5 years.  Seth pointed out that there is a need for investments to keep the grid reliable and to replace old equipment, but Maine families can't afford more "eye popping rate hikes."  He agrees that there is a need for new investments,  but the money should come from a reduction in the "company's inflated, risk-free profits - not from the deflated pockets of hardworking Mainers." He urged listeners to go to the PUC's website and send a comment to let the Commissioners know how the proposed hike will affect you and your family and that you can't afford to pay an extra  $420  per year for electricity.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/portland-maine-s-social-housing-task-force--67810731Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 22, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast  is an interview of Kate Sykes who is a member of the Portland City Council representing District 5.  She is also the co-chair of Portland's Social Housing Task Force which was created in March 2025 to explore the creation of a social housing program in the city.   The group has been given a year to study and propose "a framework for government-led social housing, prioritizing permanent affordability, environmental sustainability and inclusivity". Kate talked about social housing which exists in many European cities as well as in Maryland and how it is different from the public housing that has been built over the past century here in the United States.  At the first  meeting which was held last month,  committee members began a discussion of how the city might approach owning and operating housing for middle class residents, a  population segment that many recent developments don't appear to target.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67810731Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 22, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast  is an interview of Kate Sykes who is a member of the Portland City...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 22, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast  is an interview of Kate Sykes who is a member of the Portland City Council representing District 5.  She is also the co-chair of Portland's Social Housing Task Force which was created in March 2025 to explore the creation of a social housing program in the city.   The group has been given a year to study and propose "a framework for government-led social housing, prioritizing permanent affordability, environmental sustainability and inclusivity". Kate talked about social housing which exists in many European cities as well as in Maryland and how it is different from the public housing that has been built over the past century here in the United States.  At the first  meeting which was held last month,  committee members began a discussion of how the city might approach owning and operating housing for middle class residents, a  population segment that many recent developments don't appear to target.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-ballot-question-one--67725123Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 15, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This show is an interview with Destie Hofman Sprague, who is the executive director of the Maine Women's Lobby.  Destie talked about Question 1 which is on the ballot this November [2025] in Maine  and why the Women's Lobby is opposed.  A  conservative PAC called The Dinner Table, which claims its mission is to elect a Republican majority in the Maine Legislature, is behind this initiative.  If passed this voter I.D. Law would reduce voter turnout by making it impossible to request an absentee ballot over the phone, it repeals ongoing absentee voting for seniors and people with disabilities and limits drop boxes for voting to one per municipality.  It also requires photo I.D. and excludes a number of currently accepted IDs such as Student I.D.s  and Tribal I.D's .  The new restrictions can and will harm every type of voter with seniors and rural voters experiencing the worst of disenfranchisement.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67725123Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 15, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. This show is an interview with Destie Hofman Sprague, who is the executive director...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept. 15, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This show is an interview with Destie Hofman Sprague, who is the executive director of the Maine Women's Lobby.  Destie talked about Question 1 which is on the ballot this November [2025] in Maine  and why the Women's Lobby is opposed.  A  conservative PAC called The Dinner Table, which claims its mission is to elect a Republican majority in the Maine Legislature, is behind this initiative.  If passed this voter I.D. Law would reduce voter turnout by making it impossible to request an absentee ballot over the phone, it repeals ongoing absentee voting for seniors and people with disabilities and limits drop boxes for voting to one per municipality.  It also requires photo I.D. and excludes a number of currently accepted IDs such as Student I.D.s  and Tribal I.D's .  The new restrictions can and will harm every type of voter with seniors and rural voters experiencing the worst of disenfranchisement.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-organic-farmers-and-gardeners--67637600Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept 8, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This show is an interview with Sarah Alexander who is  the executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Organization.  Sarah talked about the ongoing effort to train farmers to make the transition to organic farming which is a three year effort.  She also talked about how the Trump administration has cut  a number of  worthwhile programs that affect farmers in the state including four million dollars in local food purchasing directly from Maine farmers to support schools and food banks.  It has also eliminated $15 million in research regarding  PFAS contamination of US farmland, bringing to a close studies that public health advocates say are essential for understanding the worrying source of widespread food contamination.  In closing, she also briefly talked about the upcoming 2025  Common Ground Fair.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67637600Mon, 08 Sep 2025 17:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept 8, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. This show is an interview with Sarah Alexander who is  the executive director of the...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired Sept 8, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

This show is an interview with Sarah Alexander who is  the executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Organization.  Sarah talked about the ongoing effort to train farmers to make the transition to organic farming which is a three year effort.  She also talked about how the Trump administration has cut  a number of  worthwhile programs that affect farmers in the state including four million dollars in local food purchasing directly from Maine farmers to support schools and food banks.  It has also eliminated $15 million in research regarding  PFAS contamination of US farmland, bringing to a close studies that public health advocates say are essential for understanding the worrying source of widespread food contamination.  In closing, she also briefly talked about the upcoming 2025  Common Ground Fair.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/press-reporters-and-being-unionized--67558769Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 1, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of Megan Gray who is the president of the News Guild of Maine and is also the arts and culture reporter at the Portland [ME.] Press Herald (PPH). Meagan talked about her work as a writer and how she first got involved in the union at PPH. She pointed out how the Guild has historically supported its members in what she considers a tumultuous industry by giving workers a seat at the table through collective bargaining  and making improvements both in pay and working conditions. The Guild currently represents 350 workers at PPH and its members work in the news, advertising, circulation, facilities, maintenance, composing, IT, business office and marketing departments. The News Guild also represents workers at the Morning Sentinel in Waterville, and the Bangor Daily News, both in Maine. She hopes to ultimately represent workers involved in producing weekly newspapers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67558769Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:30:08 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 1, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The program is an interview of Megan Gray who is the president of the News Guild...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired September 1, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The program is an interview of Megan Gray who is the president of the News Guild of Maine and is also the arts and culture reporter at the Portland [ME.] Press Herald (PPH). Meagan talked about her work as a writer and how she first got involved in the union at PPH. She pointed out how the Guild has historically supported its members in what she considers a tumultuous industry by giving workers a seat at the table through collective bargaining  and making improvements both in pay and working conditions. The Guild currently represents 350 workers at PPH and its members work in the news, advertising, circulation, facilities, maintenance, composing, IT, business office and marketing departments. The News Guild also represents workers at the Morning Sentinel in Waterville, and the Bangor Daily News, both in Maine. She hopes to ultimately represent workers involved in producing weekly newspapers.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pumped-storage-hydropower--67473810Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 25, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast  is an interview of Karl Meyer who is a member of the Fish & Aquatics Studies Team and an intervenor in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission re-licensing  process for three Massachusetts facilities on the Connecticut River since 2011.  He is a Massachusetts resident and a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists.   Karl talked about Maine’s first so-called pumped storage hydro-power facility on private land between Dixfield and Canton in Oxford County. The project will move water between two man-made reservoirs to generate power in response to demand on the electricity grid.  Karl focused on the project's environmental effects and cost as well as who will ultimately benefit by generating and selling power during high demand periods during the day.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67473810Mon, 25 Aug 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 25, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. The podcast  is an interview of Karl Meyer who is a member of the Fish &...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 25, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

The podcast  is an interview of Karl Meyer who is a member of the Fish & Aquatics Studies Team and an intervenor in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission re-licensing  process for three Massachusetts facilities on the Connecticut River since 2011.  He is a Massachusetts resident and a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists.   Karl talked about Maine’s first so-called pumped storage hydro-power facility on private land between Dixfield and Canton in Oxford County. The project will move water between two man-made reservoirs to generate power in response to demand on the electricity grid.  Karl focused on the project's environmental effects and cost as well as who will ultimately benefit by generating and selling power during high demand periods during the day.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/grassroots-resistance-to-ice-in-maine--67386481Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 18, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview with  Dr. Brendan McQuade,  the chair of the Sociology and Criminal Justice Departments at the University of Southern Maine. He talked about the seizing of immigrants, some of whom are now locked up in the Cumberland County Jail in Portland, and the impact it is having on the job market.  He also talked about why Governor Janet Mills has held over a bill passed by the Maine Legislature which restricts local law enforcement from helping federal immigration authorities.  McQuade is also the author of "Pacifying the Homeland: Intelligence, Fusion, and Mass Supervision" which is an expose of  the work that fusion centers are involved in at the state and national level.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67386481Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 18, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. An interview with  Dr. Brendan McQuade,  the chair of the Sociology and Criminal...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 18, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview with  Dr. Brendan McQuade,  the chair of the Sociology and Criminal Justice Departments at the University of Southern Maine. He talked about the seizing of immigrants, some of whom are now locked up in the Cumberland County Jail in Portland, and the impact it is having on the job market.  He also talked about why Governor Janet Mills has held over a bill passed by the Maine Legislature which restricts local law enforcement from helping federal immigration authorities.  McQuade is also the author of "Pacifying the Homeland: Intelligence, Fusion, and Mass Supervision" which is an expose of  the work that fusion centers are involved in at the state and national level.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maine-boys-to-men--67309213Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 11, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview of Bruce King who is the executive director of "Maine Boys to Men."  Bruce talked about some of the problems that boys are facing as they grow up to be men, and the programs that the agency has developed to empower youth to recognize, and call out, the cultural aspects of harmful masculinity that contribute to violence, self-harm and academic decline among boys.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67309213Mon, 11 Aug 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 11, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. An interview of Bruce King who is the executive director of "Maine Boys to Men." ...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 11, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview of Bruce King who is the executive director of "Maine Boys to Men."  Bruce talked about some of the problems that boys are facing as they grow up to be men, and the programs that the agency has developed to empower youth to recognize, and call out, the cultural aspects of harmful masculinity that contribute to violence, self-harm and academic decline among boys.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-benefits-of-driving-and-owning-an-electric-vehicle-in-maine--67219641Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 4, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
 
An interview with Chuck Hayward who is a member of Revision Energy.  He is an EV Infrastructure Designer who talked about the benefits of driving and owning an electric vehicle in Maine and why folks should purchase one if they have the resources to do so now.  As a result of the passage of President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" the $7,500 tax rebates on the purchase of new electric cars, and up to a $4,000 credit on used vehicles, will expire at the end of September 2025. Chuck also talked about range anxiety and heating cars during the winter season as well as, 1)  incentives that Efficiency Maine Trust, the quasi-state agency for energy programs continues to provide, 2) a new initiative that offers a $300 discount for the purchase and activation of a special EV charger configured to charge only during off-peak hours (unless overridden  This new initiative brings the net cost of the charger down to $129 for consumers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67219641Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 4, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.   An interview with Chuck Hayward who is a member of Revision Energy.  He is an EV...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired August 4, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Weekly - Mondays - 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.
 
An interview with Chuck Hayward who is a member of Revision Energy.  He is an EV Infrastructure Designer who talked about the benefits of driving and owning an electric vehicle in Maine and why folks should purchase one if they have the resources to do so now.  As a result of the passage of President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" the $7,500 tax rebates on the purchase of new electric cars, and up to a $4,000 credit on used vehicles, will expire at the end of September 2025. Chuck also talked about range anxiety and heating cars during the winter season as well as, 1)  incentives that Efficiency Maine Trust, the quasi-state agency for energy programs continues to provide, 2) a new initiative that offers a $300 discount for the purchase and activation of a special EV charger configured to charge only during off-peak hours (unless overridden  This new initiative brings the net cost of the charger down to $129 for consumers.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/afl-cio-union-gains-in-maine--67154581https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67154581Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGOur Guest is Andy O'Brien who is the Communication Director of  Maine AFL-CIO union organization.  He talked about some of the legislative victories that the union has won in the Maine State Legislature this year such as finally winning the right  to...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/efforts-in-maine-to-add-pfas-to-the-list-of-contaminants-at-the-dept-of-hhs--67056521Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 21, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Mondays - Weekly 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview with Sarah Alexander who is the executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  She talked about the organization's efforts to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection agency for its failure to regulate the land application of sludge contaminated with PFAS chemicals under the Clean Water Act.  She also talked about the latest efforts in Maine to add PFAS to the list of contaminants that the Dept of Health and Human Services recommend for testing. Governor Mill signed this bill.  Of two different bills in the Maine legislature regarding farm workers. LD589 was passed into law providing farm workers the minimum wage in Maine and LD 588 which would have allowed  farm workers the right to organize for better working conditions.  Unfortunately, Governor Mills vetoed that bill.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67056521Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGCommunity Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 21, 2025 WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Mondays - Weekly 1:00 PM Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD. An interview with Sarah Alexander who is the executive director of the Maine Organic...Community Voices for Change - 30 mins - First Aired July 21, 2025
WMPG-FM. Univ. of So. Maine - Mondays - Weekly 1:00 PM
Producer & Host:  Richard Rudolph, PhD.

An interview with Sarah Alexander who is the executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.  She talked about the organization's efforts to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection agency for its failure to regulate the land application of sludge contaminated with PFAS chemicals under the Clean Water Act.  She also talked about the latest efforts in Maine to add PFAS to the list of contaminants that the Dept of Health and Human Services recommend for testing. Governor Mill signed this bill.  Of two different bills in the Maine legislature regarding farm workers. LD589 was passed into law providing farm workers the minimum wage in Maine and LD 588 which would have allowed  farm workers the right to organize for better working conditions.  Unfortunately, Governor Mills vetoed that bill.]]>1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/shrink-shift-and-shaft-how-business-increases-profits-though-fewer-employee-benefits-and-shorter-work-shifts--66889394https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66889394Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:30:07 +0000WMPGAuthor Mike Prokosch who recently conducted a workshop entitled, "Shrink, Shift and Shaft" at the Maine AFL-CIO Local 14 Solidarity Center in Jay, Maine gives an overview of that lecture and his other publications.  Mike is a carpenter and popular...1801falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trans-equality-issues-facing-the-lgbtq-community-in-maine--66889345https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66889345Mon, 07 Jul 2025 20:59:12 +0000WMPGGia Drew who is the executive director of Equality Maine speaks about the  8 different bills that were ultimately defeated in the Maine Legislature regarding restricting the rights of LGBTQ+ folks living  in Maine.   At least 28 other states led by...1801falsefull