Spill the Goods

Jess Spillers and Cristina Goodwin
  • 4.8 (4)
  • News Commentary

Spill the Goods focuses on how policy affects you, not the politics behind it. Curious what City Hall decisions mean for your family? Unsure what the Board of School Committee is talking about? Spill the Goods focuses on local issues in Manchester, NH, and translates policy into personal impacts, highlighting areas where you can take action. Cristina and Jess are here to translate all the agenda items from the Board of Mayor and Alderman and School Committee meetings into what that means for YOU. We can't promise we won't get political, but we will get personal.

Episodes

  1. 3d ago

    Is It Communism? (No!) The DSA In The USA

    Who are all these people? What is the DSA? Are they communists? Short answer-No! Democratic socialism is a distinct ideology separate from classic socialism and communism. Join Jess and Cristina as they explore the core principles and values of democratic socialism vs. socialism, communism, and democracy. The conversation contrasts the difference between a DSA candidate and a traditional democrat, what their priorities are and how they view the role of government. This episode also touches on the success of social democracy in other countries and the impact of meeting basic needs on social well-being. The episode ends on a hopeful note as they discuss the potential future of the Democratic Party, which feels bright due to the rise of the DSA. Takeaways Democratic socialism is distinct from classic socialism and communism.Democratic socialism seeks economic equality within a democratic system.Democratic socialism emphasizes the welfare of citizens. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Democratic Socialism01:17 Understanding Democratic Socialism02:44 Comparison with Classic Socialism04:38 Communism vs. Democratic Socialism12:38 Democratic Socialism vs. Democracy17:14 Nordic Countries and Social Democracy18:13 Basic Needs and Social Well-being19:12 Stress, Health, and Wellness20:12 Political Parties and Third-Party Candidates27:04 Money in Politics and Campaign Funding32:30 The Future of the Democratic Party References The Democratic Socialists of America The Differences Between Socialism and Communism by Robert Longley Pennsylvania Railroad Company by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Andrew Carnegie by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica J. P. Morgan by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Elon Musk's US Department of Defense Contracts by Reuters (02/11/25) Amazon to Invest Up to Another $25 Billion In Anthropic as Part of AI Infrastructure Deal by Ashley Capoot, CNBC (04/20/26) The World Happiness Report by Gallup Analytics List of Third-Party and Independent Performances in United States Presidential Elections by Wikipedia Shaheen Announces Support for Medicare for All Act, Press Release Sen. Shaheen's Office, 09/13/17

  2. Jul 21

    The Importance of Election Workers with Ward Three Moderator, Avery Cyr

    What's a Moderator do, anyways? Join Jess and Cristina as they interview Ward Three Moderator, Avery Cyr, and discuss the importance of election workers. The conversation covers the various roles and their differences (i.e., an observer vs. a moderator vs. a selectman), the duties and responsibilities of a moderator, changes in voter registration requirements, the nonpartisan role of a moderator, and the recruitment process for poll workers and ballot inspectors. Additionally, this episode discusses polling hours, voter resources, and the requirements for voter registration. Takeaways Election Moderator RoleTraining and ResponsibilitiesRecruitment of Poll Workers Role of the moderator in electionsImportance of voter registration Chapters 00:00 Becoming an Election Moderator01:20 Observer vs. Moderator02:25 Campaigning and Permission03:22 Duties of a Moderator04:34 Voter Registration and Training05:42 Changes in Voter Registration06:05 Handling Voter Issues07:12 Support Organizations for Voters08:12 Nonpartisan Role of Moderator09:15 Training and Compensation10:00 Recruitment of Poll Workers11:28 Role of Ballot Inspectors12:33 Recruitment Process23:14 Proof of Residency and Identity Links/References How to Register to Vote in Manchester Where do I Vote? Voter Registration and Elections in Manchester (including Absentee)

  3. Jul 18

    07/07/26 BoMA Mtg.-Bridging the Gap

    This episode covers various topics discussed at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting 07/07/26. Join us as we dissect the discussion! Public comment included topics like city officials' terms, the tax cap override, housing affordability, and transparency in contract negotiations. 'Infrastructure' was the word of the night as the BoMA heard from both the State and local agencies about roadway adjustments. The conversation delves into the impact of infrastructure projects on traffic volume and safety concerns, the challenges of funding and project modifications, and the importance of community engagement and advocacy in shaping the future of the city's transportation infrastructure. Takeaways City officials' terms: Lengthening from two to four yearsTax cap override and bond ratingHousing affordability and rent concernsTransparency in contract negotiationsFour-way stop at South Willow and Sheffield Infrastructure projects impact traffic and safetyFunding challenges and modificationsCommunity engagement and advocacy Chapters 00:00 City Officials' Terms01:09 Tax Cap Override and Bond Rating03:10 Housing Affordability and Rent Concerns06:04 Transparency in Contract Negotiations14:16 Four-Way Stop at South Willow and Sheffield18:04 Traffic Volume and Safety Concerns19:30 The Raise Project and Infrastructure Changes22:23 Funding Challenges and Modifications Links/References: The Raise Project 07/07/26 Board of Mayor and Alderman Agenda 07/07/26 Board of Mayor and Alderman Mtg. Video (MPTV)

  4. Jun 30

    NH: Tax Free or Tax Haven?

    The conversation delves into the complexities of tax structures, focusing on property taxes, income tax absence, tax exemptions, business taxes, and real estate taxes. It highlights the personal impact of policy decisions and the need for revenue generation alternatives. Takeaways Property taxes disproportionately burden property ownersThe absence of income tax leads to a reliance on property taxes for revenueBusiness taxes and incentives should be used carefully so that NH doesn't lose out, while corporations build wealth Chapters 00:00 The Burden of Property Taxes11:53 Business Taxes and Incentives22:42 Real Estate Taxes and Their Impact29:26 Policy, Personal Impact, and Revenue Generation

  5. Jun 21

    Apples to Apples: The Final 2026/2027 City Budget

    The episode discusses the recent budget meeting and the drama surrounding the passing of the budget. It covers the different budgets presented, the alderman's questions, and the community's involvement in the budget process. Takeaways Budget meetings can be dramatic and contentiousCommunity involvement is crucial in the budget process Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Mood Setting05:13 Reviewing Budgets and Alderman Questions11:27 Republican Presented Budget and Expert Consultation17:37 Third and Final Budget Review23:27 Surplus Allocation and Tax Rate Offset

  6. Jun 11

    That's My Mayor: If Mamdani Came to Manchester

    The conversation delves into the impact of Zohran Mamdani's historic mayoral race in New York City, focusing on his initiatives related to affordable housing, budget balancing, and taxation. It also explores the potential translation of Mamdani's policies to New Hampshire, particularly in the context of affordable housing, childcare, and early education programs. Takeaways Progressive policies can workA balanced budget is possible with progressive policiesTaxation policies in NH need updatingAffordable housing encompasses not just building more but maintaining them and strengthening tenant's rightsChild care availability affects home and the workplaceUniversal pre-K and Kindergarten positively impact education later Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zohran Mamdani12:23 Affordable Housing Initiatives21:46 Childcare and Early Education Programs https://www.spillthegoods603.com/

  7. Jun 1

    We Want YOU To Run For Office

    The conversation delves into the experience of running for public office, covering topics such as the filing process, the financial costs, fundraising, PAC money, endorsements, door knocking, and tips for running for office. Cristina and Jess reflect on their experiences and express their desire to stay involved in local politics. Takeaways Running for office involves significant financial costsEndorsements and support play a crucial role in political campaignsAccepting the help of others can alleviate some financial and personal burden Chapters 00:00 Running for Office: Filing and Candidacy10:04 Fundraising and PAC Money21:51 Door Knocking and Campaigning28:55 Reflections on Running for Office

  8. May 26

    05/19/26 BoMA Mtg: Alternative Budgets

    The conversation covers a recap of the recent Board of Mayor Alderman meeting, focusing on public comment and the budget proposal. It delves into the themes of public comment, including discussions on sidewalks and infrastructure, as well as the budget proposal and its impact on taxes and community services. Takeaways Public CommentBudget Proposal Chapters 00:00 Board of Mayor Alderman Meeting Recap15:29 Discussion of the Budget Proposal Aldermen Contact Info: https://www.manchesternh.gov/Portals/2/Departments/elected_officials/mayor/AldermenEmailList.pdf Manchester BoMA Agendas & Minutes: https://www.manchesternh.gov/Departments/City-Clerk/Meeting-Minutes-and-Agendas/Current

  9. May 21

    NH CD1 Democratic Primary Forum

    Spill the Goods' first live event was a Democratic primary forum for NH's 1st Congressional District. Participants included: Carleigh Beriont, Sarah Chadzynski, Heath Howard, Stefany Shaheen, Maura Sullivan, and Christian Urrutia. Questions were solicited from the public and chosen by Cristina and Jess based on the most asked about topics. Each candidate also addressed a question specific to them and their campaign for Congress. The forum begins with an introduction and a focus on driving engagement in local politics. Candidates then deliver their elevator pitches, highlighting their backgrounds and policy priorities. The discussion shifts to campaign finance, immigration, and human rights. The conversation covers topics such as motivating people to vote, addressing the cost of living, wealth redistribution, investing in universal healthcare, economic disparities, national debt, accountability, and success metrics. The candidates discuss the impact of tariffs on the cost of living, the need to address the real needs of everyday people, and the importance of wealth redistribution and fiscal policy. The conversation delved into the Gaza crisis and foreign policy, addressing the actions of the Israeli government, aid to Israel, and support for Jewish people. It also explored the theme of political courage and leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to exercise courage and bring about change in the political landscape. Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage15:19 Campaign Finance and Ethics28:18 Immigration and Human Rights38:13 Experience in Office56:01 Economic Disparities and National Debt01:06:37 Accountability and Success Metrics01:16:09 Gaza Crisis and Foreign Policy Thank you to the event sponsors-Manchester Ink Link, Village Play Cafe, and Southern NH Democratic Socialists of America, as well as to the Manchester Public Library for the use of the auditorium and to Manchester Public TV for filming the event. Manchester Public TV: CD1 Forum 05/13/26

  10. May 7

    The Best Way to Measure Your Brain (Proficiency Scores)

    Special guest Liz O'Neil-Wong (Manchester Board of School Committee, Ward 11) joins Spill the Goods to talk about her experience as an educator and the complexities of measuring student achievement. The conversation this episode delves into the topic of measuring student success, exploring the limitations of standardized testing and the importance of alternative measures. It also discusses the iReady assessment in Manchester and the role of grades in determining student success. The conversation covers the importance of a holistic approach to education, including competency-based grading, the impact of home life on education, trauma-informed education, societal expectations on schools, the role of parents in a student's progress, and the importance of empathy and understanding in education. Takeaways Measuring student success goes beyond standardized testsImportance of alternative measures of success Competency-based grading systemImportance of holistic approach to education Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction05:13 Challenges with Standardized Testing12:19 Grades and Student Success17:54 Trauma-Informed Education23:01 Student Involvement in Conferences Visit us at: Spill the Goods

  11. Apr 25

    Budgets-Support Your City for Less Than a Dollar a Day

    The conversation delves into the creation of budgets, the impact of property taxes, the tax cap, and the budget process. It also covers the recent Board of Mayor and Alderman meeting, highlighting the urgency of finalizing the budget. The conversation delves into the impact of budget underfunding on city services, highlighting the implications for roads, schools, and public programs. It emphasizes the importance of community involvement in budget decisions and encourages citizens to engage with local officials to voice their concerns and preferences. Takeaways Budget creation processImpact of property taxes; Budget underfunding impacts city servicesImportance of community involvement in budget decisions References Property Taxes in NH: How They Work and How They Compare by Phil Sletten, NH Fiscal Policy Institute, April 9, 2026 Tax Cap Language, City Charter, The City of Manchester, NH BoMA Meeting Minutes and Agendas March 26, 2026 Mayor's Budget Presentation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Budgets11:45 Board of Mayor and Alderman Meeting23:18 Community Involvement in Budget Decisions Visit us at: www.spillthegoods603.com

  12. Apr 17

    Meet Your Local Policy Guides

    Jess Spillers and Cristina Goodwin introduce their podcast 'Spill the Goods' and discuss the importance of local engagement and awareness. They also share personal stories and plans for future episodes, including a candidate forum and soliciting questions from the community. Takeaways Local engagement is crucialJess and Cristina will host a CD1 Democratic candidate forum, 05/13/26 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'Spill the Goods' Podcast05:35 Childhood and Interests16:49 Purpose of 'Spill the Goods' Podcast and Future Plans

  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Spill the Goods focuses on how policy affects you, not the politics behind it. Curious what City Hall decisions mean for your family? Unsure what the Board of School Committee is talking about? Spill the Goods focuses on local issues in Manchester, NH, and translates policy into personal impacts, highlighting areas where you can take action. Cristina and Jess are here to translate all the agenda items from the Board of Mayor and Alderman and School Committee meetings into what that means for YOU. We can't promise we won't get political, but we will get personal.

Information

  • Creator
    Jess Spillers and Cristina Goodwin
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jess Spillers and Cristina Goodwin

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