Bartholomewtown

Bill Bartholomew
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Bartholomewtown is an independent news and interview podcast exploring Rhode Island through conversations with the people driving politics, culture, business, and public life. Hosted by journalist Bill Bartholomew, the show delivers insightful interviews, original reporting, and clear-eyed analysis from New England's smallest state—with stories that often resonate far beyond it.

  1. 8 hr ago

    How RI Startup "Transgender Zone" Builds Community, Resilience Amidst Anti-Trans Laws

    Send us Fan Mail Building Community and Support for Transgender Individuals: The Story of Transgender Zone In this episode, Victoria St. Germain shares her inspiring journey from navigating a challenging transition in Rhode Island to founding Transgender Zone — a digital platform transforming how trans people connect, find support, and access vital resources. Her insights highlight the importance of community, resilience, and scaled support systems in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and safety. Key Topics: Victoria's experience growing up and transitioning in Rhode Island, including the legal and social challenges facedHow Rhode Island's unique demographic impacts the trans community’s support networkThe creation and impact of Transgender Zone: resources, community building, and scaling opportunitiesThe role of digital communities in providing safety, education, and connection during a global health crisisThe importance of advocacy, visibility, and platforming trans voices in a hostile legal environmentChallenges faced as a startup in a mission-driven social enterprise, including funding and growth hurdlesThe urgent need for supportive platforms amid increasing anti-trans legislation and attacksPractical advice for allies: how to support and amplify trans voicesTimestamps: 00:00 — Introduction to Victoria St. Germain and her work with Transgender Zone  02:08 — Victoria’s personal experience growing up as a trans person in Rhode Island  04:00 — Unique advantages and disadvantages of transitioning in Rhode Island  04:56 — The motivation behind creating Transgender Zone and its early development  06:03 — Features of Transgender Zone: community, live coaching, educational modules  06:32 — How the platform fosters a diverse, supportive trans community  07:27 — Scaling plans and ambitions for Transgender Zone to reach more trans individuals globally  08:41 — The importance of digital spaces in post-COVID support and healthcare access  09:53 — Challenges faced in starting and growing the platform amid legal and political threats  11:19 — The resilience of the trans community and passing down vital safety and transition knowledge  13:21 — The current legislative landscape and the fight against anti-trans laws  14:25 — A call to action for allies: support, platform, and advocate for trans communities Resources & Links: Transgender ZoneSocial Enterprise GreenhouseConnect with Victoria St. Germain: LinkedInTwitterSupport the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    18 min

  2. 1 day ago

    How Newport Heights Exemplifies Successful Affordable Housing Redevelopment - Secretary Deborah Goddard, Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing + Eva Erlich, Vice President of Development at Trinity Financial

    Send us Fan Mail GUESTS: Secretary Deborah Goddard, Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing Eva Erlich, Vice President of Development at Trinity Financial This episode dives into a real-world case of rebuilding community and creating sustainable affordable housing—focusing on Newport Heights. With insights from housing experts, we explore how innovative financing, strategic preservation, and thoughtful design can transform public housing and inspire broader change. Key Topics: The history and success of Newport Heights as a Hope Six redevelopment projectHow refinancing tools like RAD enable long-term sustainabilityThe twin importance of preservation and new development in meeting housing needsChallenges and strategies for aging public housing infrastructureThe role of partnerships among government, private sector, and community stakeholdersThe broader housing supply problem and solutions through production and preservationTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and overview of the conversation 00:35 - Background on Newport Heights’ transformation from Tonomy Hill Public Housing 01:24 - The significance of Hope Six and RAD in housing redevelopment 02:13 - The impact of good design and refinancing on longevity 03:38 - Trinity’s role and financial approach in housing projects 04:36 - Resident involvement and community connection post-renovation 05:13 - Balancing reinvestment in existing infrastructure versus new projects 05:57 - The importance of preservation amidst funding challenges 07:09 - Addressing aging properties and renovation strategies 08:03 - Cost considerations and long-term affordability 09:24 - Early planning and proactive refinancing efforts 10:12 - The frequency of preservation discussions across Rhode Island 11:29 - Ongoing projects and Trinity’s portfolio strategies 12:30 - Broader outlook on Rhode Island’s housing market and supply issues 13:39 - The necessity of balancing preservation with new housing production 14:55 - Final thoughts on using successful projects as a blueprint for change Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    17 min

  3. 6 days ago

    The Hidden Costs of Fines and Fees in the US Criminal Justice System: URI's Dr. Brittany Martin

    Send us Fan Mail This episode explores how financial penalties within the justice system disproportionately impact low-income communities, often leading to a cycle of debt and criminalization. University of Rhode Island's Dr. Brittany Martin shares insights from her research on monetary sanctions and discusses promising reforms at the state level, particularly Rhode Island's efforts to waive court fees for indigent defendants. In this episode: The various forms of financial penalties beyond fines, including court fees, restitution, and probation costsHow these sanctions are applied unevenly and tend to burden low-income individuals more heavilyThe impact of traffic violations becoming criminal offenses in certain states, contributing to ongoing financial stressRhode Island's legislative reforms eliminating court costs for many defendants and the observed outcomesThe role of assessment of ability to pay in improving collections while promoting fairnessHow research can inform legislative change and court practices around fines and feesThe importance of justice that balances accountability with economic realitiesTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the issue of fines and fees in criminal justice 00:28 - Background: Research origins and early interests in monetary sanctions 01:14 - Types of financial penalties: Fines, fees, restitution, and jail costs 02:13 - The scope of monetary sanctions and their enforcement across states 02:59 - Public defender fees and misconceptions about free legal aid 03:29 - Restitution and incarceration costs impacting low-income individuals 04:45 - The disproportionate burden on those with lower incomes 05:07 - How monetary sanctions erode perceived justice and legitimacy 06:23 - Statistically how most defendants are indigent, with significant consequences 06:57 - Traffic violations as criminal offenses and their financial implications 07:15 - The cycle created by criminal traffic offenses and probation fees 08:20 - Policy shifts: Rhode Island’s legislation to waive court fees for indigent defendants 09:20 - The recent reforms and their early impacts in Rhode Island 11:38 - The broader movement across states to reform or eliminate municipal and court fees 12:06 - Dr. Martin’s role at the Fines and Fees Justice Center and her focus on ability-to-pay assessments 13:21 - How research can inform policies that improve efficiency and fairness in courts 14:33 - Key questions for Rhode Island political candidates about criminal justice reform and financial burdens 15:37 - Closing thoughts on the importance of justice that respects economic diversity and fairness Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    16 min

  4. 23 Jun

    Rhode Island KIDS COUNT Executive Director Paige Parks

    Send us Fan Mail This episode dives into Rhode Island's latest child well-being report, revealing critical insights into the state's progress and ongoing challenges. Paige Parks discusses with Rhode Island Kids Count Executive Director, Paige Parks, about systemic issues affecting children—covering poverty, education gaps, healthcare access, and immigrant family experiences. In this episode: The significance of data-driven advocacy for children's issuesOver 15% of Rhode Island children live in poverty, amidst soaring housing costsTrends in education: declining absenteeism but persistent challenges in early childhood accessImpact of federal policy changes on health insurance and social servicesThe rising number of children in immigrant families—nearly 30%—and the importance of multilingual education programsHow COVID-19 and inflation are magnifying disparities and stressors on familiesThe need for more investments in childcare, social safety nets, and community-based supportThe threat and potential rollback of critical federal and state programs due to policy shiftsStrategies for advocacy and coalition-building at the state levelTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island Kids Count and their mission 02:06 - The importance of putting children at the top of the policy agenda 03:43 - Key findings from the 2026 Rhode Island Kids Count Factbook 04:10 - Child poverty and housing affordability crisis in Rhode Island 05:13 - Ripple effects of unstable housing on children’s well-being 06:42 - The true cost of living in Rhode Island—almost 100k needed to stay afloat 07:33 - Education insights: progress vs. persistent gaps in early childhood and K-12 08:46 - Supporting the whole child: addressing food insecurity and school readiness 09:57 - Chronic absenteeism: causes, challenges, and the importance of data 11:20 - Health coverage: progress, disparities, and threats from federal policy changes 13:20 - Exposure to violence, domestic situations, and their impact on children 14:06 - The state of maternal and infant health care; disparities by race 15:31 - The vulnerability of immigrant children and families amid federal immigration policies 16:48 - The importance of local data amid federal funding cuts 18:41 - Strategies for advocacy and policy impact amidst political changes 20:15 - Federal data reductions: implications for statewide policy and program planning 22:54 - The rising needs of immigrant families for services like dual-language education and workforce support 24:11 - Addressing data gaps and community engagement for better child outcomes 25:37 - The recent legislative session and how coalitions influence policy for children 27:33 - Upcoming challenges: the impact of federal policies like HR 1 on families 29:16 - The importance of economic investments to sustain child benefit programs Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    32 min

  5. 22 Jun

    RI Dem Party Decides Against Governor Endorsement

    Send us Fan Mail This episode dives into the recent fallout within Rhode Island’s Democratic Party, the implications of the party endorsement failures, and what it suggests about the broader political landscape. With insights from local political observer Bill Bartholomew, we explore what these internal shifts mean for upcoming elections, leadership, and policy priorities. Key topics: The significance of the Rhode Island Democratic Party not endorsing Governor Dan McKeeThe internal party factionalism: McKee’s faction versus the anti-incumbent baseHow political energy and internal party dynamics reflect broader voter sentiment and changeThe impact of campaign messaging, especially the gubernatorial commercial and candidate performanceThe disconnect between campaign tactics and meaningful policy discussions such as housing and environmental initiativesThe influence of party endorsements and internal alignments on election outcomesThe role of media, social media, and traditional approaches in shaping voter perceptionsFuture opportunities for debate and issues-focused campaign conversationsTimestamps: 00:00 - Analyzing the Rhode Island Democratic convention and low-endorsing of Dan McKee 02:09 - The role of union endorsements and their potential impact on McKee’s campaign 02:35 - Does party endorsement influence undecided voters? 03:19 - The internal party factions and shifting allegiances over the past year 04:22 - The factional divide: McKee’s supporters versus reform-minded members 05:10 - Evidence of the party moving away from McKee: messaging and organizational shifts 06:30 - The internal energy and desire for change within the party base 07:09 - Helena Bonanno Folk’s momentum and the broader landscape of political change 08:14 - The significance of party energy as a reflection of voter mood and internal dynamics 09:01 - The implications of the party’s stance on candidate endorsements at the convention 09:41 - Historical parallels: party endorsements from past elections and their outcomes 10:02 - The focus on policy issues like housing, zoning, and environmental challenges 11:02 - The importance of substantive policy discussions over campaign messaging 11:55 - The evolving landscape of media engagement and campaign communication strategies 12:57 - Analyzing Governor McKee’s campaign commercial and the importance of authentic messaging 14:12 - The message and symbolism behind campaign visuals and gestures 15:07 - The importance of genuine presence and performance in political communication 16:05 - The state’s current priorities: healthcare, housing, and energy projects like Revolution Wind 18:10 - The disconnect between campaign messaging and the actual issues facing Rhode Island 19:17 - External perceptions of the political system and the importance of leadership authenticity 20:29 - Summing up: How do McKee’s and Folk’s visions differ for Rhode Island? 21:11 - Closing reflections: The undercurrent of voter undecidedness and internal party turbulence Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    24 min

  6. 18 Jun

    RI Gov Candidates Release TV Ads, Campaign Season Ramps Up: Mike Raia Joins. Inside Communications presented by Half Street Group

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Mike Rea, president and founder of Half Street Group, shares insightful analysis of the current Rhode Island political landscape, focusing on campaign strategies, media influence, and voter engagement. Whether you're a political enthusiast, a strategy professional, or just curious about local elections, Mike offers a clear-eyed view into how campaigns are shaping up as election season heats up. Key topics covered: Early signs of campaign strategies from Rhode Island gubernatorial candidates.The increasing importance of media, ads, and public events in political communication.Why incumbents often take unconventional routes — and why that might backfire.The evolving role of local journalism and its impact on public awareness.How third-party and independent candidates are positioning themselves.Timing and resource allocation in election campaigns: when voters get engaged.The cultural impact of political personalities and the role of celebrity in local races.The influence of national politics, especially Trump's presence, on local election dynamics.Practical advice for mental and emotional balance for campaign professionals and voters.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the current Rhode Island political climate 00:30 - The role of media and campaign ads in early election stages 02:00 - Assessment of gubernatorial candidates’ messaging strategies 03:30 - The effectiveness of attack ads and their impact on voters 05:00 - Challenges faced by incumbents and opportunities for reintroduction 06:30 - The influence of local journalism and the decline of political commentary 08:00 - The presence (or absence) of political personalities and celebrity culture 09:45 - The delayed start of campaign activity and voter engagement 11:00 - The significance of candidate endorsements and grassroots support 12:00 - The potential effect of third-party candidates in the race 13:00 - The importance of timing in campaign spending and outreach 15:00 - The slowing of political momentum in the context of national trends 16:30 - The idea of political “baseball cards” to increase voter interest 17:30 - Practical advice for maintaining personal well-being during campaign season 19:00 - Closing thoughts on the future of Rhode Island's political media landscape Resources & Links: Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    33 min

  7. 17 Jun

    Declaring a New Generation of Leadership: Xay's Lt Governor Campaign Insights

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Xay Khamsyvoravong shares his insights on running for Lieutenant Governor, the importance of results-oriented leadership, and how to reconnect with disheartened voters in a polarized political landscape. His perspective offers a clear blueprint for engaging communities and addressing systemic frustrations. Key Topics: The challenges and rewards of statewide campaigning, especially during a late-start election cycleHow local issues like health care and infrastructure shape state-wide voter prioritiesThe significance of results-driven leadership demonstrated through Xay’s tenure as mayor and utility chairDifferentiating ideological visions within the Democratic primary and the importance of accountabilityThe impact of national political chaos on local voter engagement and how leaders can cut through the noiseThe influence of grassroots movements and community activism, exemplified through the Newport Birthing Center campaignStrategies for managing education funding crises and regionalization challenges on Aquidneck IslandThe importance of fostering long-term solutions around health care and government transparencyTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Xay’s campaign journey and motivation 02:21 - Differences between local and statewide campaigning in Rhode Island 04:29 - Voter frustrations with the status quo and local vs. systemic issues 06:04 - The role of the Lieutenant Governor’s office and addressing partisan politics 08:02 - Challenges of conflicting primary candidates and over-politicization 10:06 - The importance of accountability versus entertainment in politics 12:39 - The Newport Birthing Center: grassroots advocacy and health care priorities 16:27 - Education funding crisis and regionalization on Aquidneck Island 18:06 - Connecting with disillusioned voters amidst national political chaos 20:07 - The broader mission: building trust and solving Rhode Island’s systemic problems Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    23 min

  8. 16 Jun

    Congressman Seth Magaziner

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Congressman Seth Magaziner offers a sharp critique of current Washington policies, explores how corruption and big money influence governance, and shares his vision for reforming American politics ahead of the midterm elections. His insights reveal the deeper struggles behind headlines and the path toward a more accountable, fair government. Key Topics: The chaos and dysfunction within Washington, driven by corrupt interests and elitismThe economics of inequality: tax policies benefiting billionaires and corporations at the expense of working AmericansForeign policy debates, including the risks of military intervention in Iran, Venezuela, and CubaDemocratic Party’s strategic approach: combining opposition with an affirmative policy agendaThe impact of AI and emerging technologies on jobs, energy costs, and regulationThe urgent fight to ban insider trading and reform prediction markets in CongressThe debate around gambling, sports betting, and the regulation of online prediction platformsTimestamps: 00:00 - The surreal spectacle of a UFC fight on the White House lawn and Washington chaos 02:20 - How current administration policies favor elites over working Americans 03:42 - The implications of the Iran nuclear deal and international conflicts 05:31 - The motives and mental state of President Biden in foreign diplomacy 07:16 - Democratic strategy for midterm success: affordability, healthcare, anti-corruption 09:54 - The influence of AI on policy, jobs, and energy costs 15:00 - The potential of revenue-sharing models like Sanders’ Alaska Fund for AI companies 16:29 - The risks of insider trading and prediction markets in Congress 19:34 - The controversy over online sports betting and gambling regulations 21:00 - The importance of transparency and regulation in emerging industries Support the show Follow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

    21 min
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About

Bartholomewtown is an independent news and interview podcast exploring Rhode Island through conversations with the people driving politics, culture, business, and public life. Hosted by journalist Bill Bartholomew, the show delivers insightful interviews, original reporting, and clear-eyed analysis from New England's smallest state—with stories that often resonate far beyond it.

Information

  • Creator
    Bill Bartholomew
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    989
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bartholomewtown
  • Show Website
    Bartholomewtown

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