Moore Than Politics

Senator Michael Moore & Shrewsbury Media Connection

Join Massachusetts State Senator Michael Moore for in-depth conversations with local newsmakers about the latest happenings in the Commonwealth and beyond. Moore than Politics with Sen. Mike Moore takes a closer look at the news of the day with community leaders, local politicians, and fierce advocates at the heart of the issues to break down what it all means for you and your community. From Beacon Hill to the Heart of the Commonwealth, Senator Moore lifts the curtain on the State House to help Bay Staters better understand how their government is working for them. Feedback and questions can be sent to michael.moore@masenate.gov

  1. Aug 24

    I Built That. The Value of a Career in the Trades

    In Episode 23 of Moore Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Dave Minasian of the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, Local 336, for a wide-ranging conversation about the skilled trades, organized labor, and the future of the construction workforce in Massachusetts. With more than 30,000 members represented across the Northeast, the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters plays a major role in training the next generation of skilled workers while advocating for wages, benefits, retirement security, and safe working conditions. Senator Moore and Minasian discuss why unions still matter to working families, the growing problem of wage theft and illegal contracting practices, and the challenges facing workers as housing, healthcare, education, and everyday living expenses continue to rise. They also take a closer look at careers in the skilled trades and the opportunities available through union apprenticeship programs. Menasian explains why employers aren't necessarily looking for someone who already knows how to swing a hammer—they're looking for people with the attitude, work ethic, and desire to learn. The skills can be taught. The conversation also explores the remarkable training happening at the Carpenters' facility in Millbury—from commercial construction and welding to rigging, blueprint technology and even underwater welding. Plus, they tackle some of the bigger issues affecting Massachusetts construction today, including the housing shortage, tariffs and material costs, energy policy, major infrastructure projects, and the increasing demand for skilled workers. For young people considering what comes after high school—or adults thinking about a career change—this episode offers a revealing look at an often-overlooked path to a middle-class career with training, healthcare and retirement benefits, without necessarily following the traditional four-year college route. Moore Than Politics goes beyond the headlines for conversations about the issues affecting Massachusetts residents, their families, and their communities.

    I Built That. The Value of a Career in the Trades

  2. Aug 11

    Elkdom

    In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Dave Charbonneau, the new President of the Massachusetts Elks Association, to take a closer look at an organization that has been serving communities for generations. With approximately 37,000 members across 54 Massachusetts lodges, the Elks support an impressive range of charitable and community programs. Dave discusses the organization's work with veterans, youth programs, drug awareness initiatives, scholarships, food pantries, schools, Special Olympics, and other local causes. The conversation also explores the Elks' longstanding commitment to veterans, including programs that help veterans transitioning from homelessness into apartments by providing household essentials and other support. Senator Moore and Dave also discuss the challenge facing many traditional civic organizations today: attracting a new generation of volunteers. Dave explains why getting involved doesn't have to mean doing everything—it can simply mean finding a cause you're passionate about and lending a hand. One example is the Build a Bed program, where volunteers come together to physically build beds for children who need them—a local effort Dave is now bringing to the state level. From helping veterans and supporting students to strengthening communities across Massachusetts, you may be surprised by just how much the Elks do. This is more than politics. It's about community, service, and finding a way to make a difference.

    Elkdom

  3. Jul 28

    The Hidden Vision Crisis

    In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Dr. Bruce Moore, Professor Emeritus at the New England College of Optometry and Co-Chair of the Children's Vision Massachusetts Coalition, to discuss an issue affecting thousands of children across the Commonwealth: undiagnosed vision problems. Dr. Moore explains how untreated vision issues can significantly impact a child's ability to learn, often being mistaken for learning disabilities or behavioral problems. Together, they explore why early vision screening matters, how improving access to eye care can help close the achievement gap, and why Massachusetts is becoming a national leader in children's vision policy. The conversation also highlights recently passed Senate legislation aimed at improving follow-up care after school vision screenings, collecting better statewide data, and ensuring children—especially those in foster care and underserved communities—receive the eye care they need to succeed. Topics include: -How vision problems affect learning and reading -Why some children are mistakenly identified as having learning disabilities -The importance of early childhood vision screenings -The connection between vision, education, and long-term success -Improving access to eye care across Massachusetts -Senate legislation to address disparities in children's vision -Why Massachusetts is leading the nation in children's vision policy Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare professional, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable insight into how something as simple as better vision can transform a child's future. This is more than politics. It's about giving every child the opportunity to learn, succeed, and reach their full potential.

    The Hidden Vision Crisis

  4. Jul 14

    AI...The Unknown Future. Opportunities, Challenges & What's Next

    In this thought-provoking episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore welcomes Cesar Fernandez, Head of U.S. State and Local Government Relations at Anthropic, one of the world's leading artificial intelligence research companies and the creator of Claude AI. Together, they explore the extraordinary opportunities—and very real challenges—presented by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. The conversation breaks down complex AI concepts into plain language, explaining generative AI, agentic AI, frontier models, and how these technologies are already transforming businesses, scientific research, healthcare, and government. Fernandez also discusses Anthropic's unique approach to AI safety, transparency, and responsible innovation, emphasizing the importance of building safeguards alongside technological progress. Topics include: -What generative AI and agentic AI really mean -How Claude AI is changing business and research -Why AI safety and independent oversight matter -Massachusetts' leadership in AI policy and innovation -The future of AI regulation and frontier AI models -Cybersecurity, transparency, and responsible AI development -The global race for artificial intelligence leadership -How AI could transform medicine, education, and everyday life Whether you're an AI enthusiast, business owner, policymaker, or simply curious about the technology reshaping our future, this episode offers an informative and balanced discussion about one of the most important innovations of our time. This is more than politics. It's about understanding the future—and ensuring artificial intelligence serves the public good.

    AI...The Unknown Future. Opportunities, Challenges & What's Next

  5. Jun 30 ·  Video

    Spicy Water Distillery

    In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore visits Spicy Water Distillery in Millbury, Massachusetts, to sit down with founder Barry and explore the journey of turning a passion for craft spirits into a thriving local business. Barry shares how he transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a craft distillery during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the art and science behind producing premium bourbon, vodka, agave spirits, limoncello, rum, and other handcrafted spirits. The conversation also highlights the importance of supporting local businesses, building community partnerships, and creating a welcoming destination where people can gather and celebrate together. Topics include: Starting a craft distillery in Massachusetts The bourbon aging and distillation process How limoncello and agave spirits are handcrafted The challenges and rewards of small business ownership Entrepreneurship after corporate life Supporting local businesses and the Millbury community Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, craft distilling, or discovering unique local businesses across the Commonwealth, this episode offers an inside look at one of Central Massachusetts' growing success stories. This is more than politics. It's about supporting local entrepreneurs, strengthening our communities, and celebrating the businesses that make Massachusetts unique.

    Spicy Water Distillery

  6. Jun 16

    Did you hear that boom?!?

    In this fascinating episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Dr. Alissa Haddaji, founder and director of the Space Consortium and Massachusetts Space Week, for an eye-opening conversation about Massachusetts’ growing role in the space industry and the future of space exploration. Dr. Haddaji shares how the Space Consortium connects researchers, educators, students, and industry leaders across the Commonwealth to make space science, technology, law, medicine, engineering, and policy more accessible to the public. The discussion explores everything from asteroid detection and planetary defense to space law, STEM education, and the opportunities available for students interested in careers connected to the rapidly expanding space sector. Topics include: Massachusetts Space Week and STEM outreach programs Space law, ethics, and international cooperation Planetary defense and protecting Earth from asteroids NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, and the future of space exploration Space careers and educational opportunities for students Why Massachusetts is becoming a leader in space research and innovation Whether you're a space enthusiast, a student considering a STEM career, or simply curious about humanity’s future beyond Earth, this episode offers an engaging look at how Massachusetts is helping shape the next generation of space exploration. This is more than politics. It’s about discovery, innovation, and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars.

    Did you hear that boom?!?

  7. Jun 2

    Legends of Local Media: The Evolution of News

    In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore welcomes veteran broadcasters Hank Stolz and Ben White of the Radio Worcester Network and Talk of the Commonwealth for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of local media, the rise of digital platforms, and the challenges of delivering trustworthy information in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. Drawing on decades of experience in Central Massachusetts media, Hank and Ben discuss how local journalism has changed, the decline of traditional newsrooms, and the growing influence of podcasts, streaming, social media, and algorithms on the way people consume information. The conversation examines the impact of echo chambers, misinformation, media literacy, and the challenges of maintaining public trust in an era where outrage often drives engagement. Topics include: -The transformation of local radio and journalism -The growth of podcasting and online streaming -How social media algorithms shape public opinion -The importance of media literacy and civic education -The role of local news in strengthening communities -Why context and facts matter more than ever This episode offers an insightful look at the future of news, public discourse, and how communities can stay informed in a rapidly changing media environment.

    Legends of Local Media: The Evolution of News

  8. May 19

    Advocating for Children: Inside CASA’s Impact.

    In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with the leadership team from CASA Project Worcester County — Executive Director Julie Bowditch and Training & Advocate Supervisor Krissie Shaw — to discuss the critical role Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) play in the lives of children involved in the juvenile court and foster care systems. The conversation explores how CASA volunteers advocate for vulnerable children facing abuse, neglect, trauma, and instability, while working alongside judges, social workers, schools, and families to help children achieve permanency and stability. Julie and Chrissy explain the rigorous volunteer training process, the emotional challenges advocates face, and the profound impact volunteers can have on a child’s future. Senator Moore and his guests also discuss: -The growing need for CASA volunteers in Worcester County -The realities of the juvenile court system and foster care -Trauma-informed advocacy and child welfare challenges -The importance of cultural competency and community representation -The high volume of child welfare cases in Central Massachusetts -Success stories surrounding adoption and permanency for children This episode offers a heartfelt look into the people working every day to support some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable children — and how ordinary citizens can make an extraordinary difference through volunteer advocacy. This is more than politics. It’s about giving children a voice when they need it most.

    Advocating for Children: Inside CASA’s Impact.
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About

Join Massachusetts State Senator Michael Moore for in-depth conversations with local newsmakers about the latest happenings in the Commonwealth and beyond. Moore than Politics with Sen. Mike Moore takes a closer look at the news of the day with community leaders, local politicians, and fierce advocates at the heart of the issues to break down what it all means for you and your community. From Beacon Hill to the Heart of the Commonwealth, Senator Moore lifts the curtain on the State House to help Bay Staters better understand how their government is working for them. Feedback and questions can be sent to michael.moore@masenate.gov

Information

  • Creator
    Senator Michael Moore & Shrewsbury Media Connection
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Moore Than Politics