Shows
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 121: Marc Douglas Berardo- A Block Island Troubador2024-10-161h 22
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 115: Rich Tretheway- One Man's Rich Island Life2024-07-241h 23
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 108: Marc Scortino- Who's Got A Spare Pool House?2024-04-171h 20
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 82: Welcome to Season 4!Play ball! Welcome to Season 4 of Two Guys on Block Island! Rich and Marc are back to dust off the microphones and bring you more great interviews with some of Block Island's most interesting characters.It's been quite a winter for our hosts. Rich discusses his newfound "hipness" and a new plan for his taxi cab as well as plans for another Tretheway wedding! Marc talks about some musical projects, a trip to Key West with his buddy Rob Davis and a very exciting new summer side hustle.After the sponsor break the guys dive...2023-04-191h 09
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 81: Season Three Wrap UpWhew! What a season it's been! In Season Three's first interview with Steven Wright, the groundbreaking comedian and long-time summer resident likened summers on the island to a book. Each summer- a volume in a series -that at the end of the season is closed and put on the shelf amongst the volumes from summers past. But before Rich and Marc put Summer 2023 on the shelf they recap the conversations had with some of the island's own. And what a season it was! From Edie Blaine's yarns from the days or yore to Bill Dunleavy's Barbara Streisand i...2022-11-091h 16
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 80: Claire Costello- Salt Pond SaviorRich and Marc find themselves continuously amazed at the amount of really smart people here on Block Island. Claire Costello ranks at the top of the list. Her days as a trial attorney in New York City found her arguing (and winning) a case before now Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. These days Claire serves as a philanthropic consultant to global power brokers whom need direction when it comes to where to give.But before that Claire first found work sweeping the floors at the Spring House at age 12. She later earned the distinction of becoming the...2022-11-021h 26
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 79: Block Island Ghost Stories (Vol. 3)Fall is always a BOOtiful time of year on Block Island. As October winds down and the island becomes quiet, one has time to notice how gloriously spooky this place can be! For the third installment of Block Island Ghost Stories Rich and Marc call on some pros to help discuss a few of the island's spectral specimens. Rob Coakley, Dave Wilkins and Jesse Wilkins dropped the first episode of their podcast Hometown Ghost Stories on November 6, 2021. Since then the cast has virtually exploded garnering nearly twenty thousand downloads per episode. Featuring a unique story telling style f...2022-10-261h 25
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 74: Kim Gaffett- A Bird In The HandKim Gaffett is one of Block Island's more revered figures although she'd probably shirk off that designation. Yet during her Block Island life she's contributed more to the community than most. From holding numerous positions in town government (including a stint as First Warden) to serving as one of the island's foremost naturalists and bird experts, Kim's love for Block Island is evident.Her father Lew Gaffett was one of Block Island's first nightlife impresarios. Kim graciously entertains Marc's numerous questions about Lew's famed establishments beginning with the legendary "Monday Night Club".Beyond bars- Kim's...2022-09-211h 19
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 72: Door Stories- feat. Chris Willi and Kristin KileyThe genesis of the Two Guys On Block Island Podcast began at the door at Captain Nick's. One night, after a particularly witty round of banter with some incoming patrons Rich leaned over to Marc and said, "You know...we should do a podcast".Well, the rest is history.But look...it's not all laughs and witty anecdotes when it comes to making certain that the patrons of a nightclub are safe, respectful and not being dicks.In this episode, we discuss the measures that SOME of Block Island's nightlife establishments are t...2022-09-071h 37
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 71: Jack Lynch- Swedish FishJack Lynch is a pretty smart dude. His Block Island story is entwined with so many facets of the island that even though Jack doesn't live here anymore, his presence can still be palpably felt. So when Rich found out that Jack was available during one of his annual forays to the island the Two Guys snapped at the opportunity to sit and chat with this fascinating man.Just press play...2022-09-011h 13
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #222022-08-1330 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 68: Norman Riker- The Beach Party Must Go OnWe talk about the movie Jaws a lot on this podcast. Let's face it. We're all obsessed with it. Imagine what it must've been like to be Chief Brodie's kid? Norman Riker has a rough idea.Growing up the son of the chief of police in the 1970's after leaving city life for a small New England island, Norman experienced all of the faded film grain quirks and nuances Block Island had to offer and then some.He once rescued a backpack full of suds from a bush after getting pinched. Still, he took it o...2022-08-101h 23
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #212022-08-0622 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 67: Mike Dugan- Silver Linings and ExteriorsMike Dugan has a way about him. You'll see what we mean...His life on Block Island has been steeped in the chodachromtic tones that we're all seeking out here. The good ol' days. The 70's and 80's. The days when Block Island was the kind of place that a school teacher could schlep his family to for the summer. The kind of place where the kids would roller skate around the ferry parking lot with heavy, plywood sandwich boards attached to their little bodies like turtle shells.If Mike's life sounds like something out...2022-08-031h 22
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #202022-07-3040 minTwo Guys on Block IslandEp. 66: Dave Turner- Number One HonkeyDave Turner has become one of Block Island's most gregarious, beloved characters. It all started when his grandparents purchased and restored a dilapidated house on Beach Avenue. Because of that purchase Dave has spent every single summer of his life on Block Island serving first as a lackey at the National Hotel before becoming Freddie Finn's first mate on a lobster boat. His days at Finn's restaurant led him to form unbreakable bonds that hold firm to this day.When Dave met his soulmate, Rosemary Tobin, he became a year-round resident. Dave, Rosemary and their son Zane...2022-07-271h 20
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #192022-07-2345 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 65: Kristin Baumann- Block Island's LibrarianKristin Baumann has been at the helm of the Block Island Library for some time now. The story of her journey from visitor to year-round resident could fill a book in and of itself. When one thinks of a librarian, perhaps a quiet, mousy bookworm is the first thing that comes to mind. But Kristin is none of those things.Never one to shy away from speaking her mind, Kristin's take on island life is a breath of fresh air. It's not uncommon for folks on Block Island to keep their opinions to themselves lest they get...2022-07-201h 34
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #182022-07-1637 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 64: Ben Hruska- Block Island's Historian At LargeBen Hruska has just published a book called Valor and Courage. It's a comprehensive account of the USS Block Island escort carriers and the Navy personnel who worked on the vessels during World War II. Ben is also in the process of digitizing thousands of old photos as part of his gig at Block Island's Historical Society. For Ben it's like finding buried treasure every single day. The process is painstaking but also a labor of love.Rich and Marc speak at length with Ben about all things Block Island including his own personal journey. W...2022-07-131h 24
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #172022-07-091h 00
Two Guys on Block IslandEp.63: Jon Dodd- The Atlantic Shark InstituteSharks sharks and more sharks...Jon Dodd loves em'. He's fascinated by them. So much that he's dedicated a good part of his life to studying them. Jon stops by to chat with Rich and Marc about our much maligned and misunderstood underwater allies.The takeaway is this...don't worry about being attacked by a shark. Your chances of getting chomped on are less than being struck by lightning and winning the lottery...in the same day.2022-07-061h 11
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 62: Paul DePetrillo- The Captain's BrotherCaptain Nick's was not built in a day. Just ask Nick's brother, Paul DePetrillo. Paul was there for the whole thing and barely escaped with his life. Seriously...But besides the occasional mishap with a bucket-loader the rest of Paul's experience helping Nick build what would become the island's hottest nightspot was a real gas. While Rich and Marc have discussed Captain Nick's many times before, Paul fills in some blanks and recounts his time spent on Block Island.Paul's memories are fond and his love for Block Island is evident. The friendships and bonds...2022-06-291h 24
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #162022-06-2433 minTwo Guys on Block IslandEp. 61: Block Island "Dooze and Doughntz" (Part 2)Rich and Marc drop another round of knowledge for those who would like to make the most of their Block Island experience.2022-06-221h 15
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 60: Amy Dodge- Not Her LaneSPOILER ALERT!Amy Dodge Lane is NOT named after Amy Dodge. Well, it is. It's not like a "who's buried in Grant's Tomb?" kind of thing. Amy Dodge Lane is named after Amy Dodge but just not THIS Amy Dodge.Lane or no lane Amy's road to Block Island and later Providence where she serves as a public defender is an interesting one. The Dodge name goes waaaaaaaaaaay back out here. And with that kind of history there are plenty of stories to be told.Listen in as Amy talks about her Block...2022-06-151h 13
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 59: TGOBI - LIVE at Captain Nick's - Vol. 1Rich and Marc's first ever live podcast before a very well-behaved bar full of fans at Captain Nick's! Surprises abound including...Interviews (some planned, some not), letters from fans, a tutorial on proper BI "waving while driving techniques", a mudslide demonstration, blues harmonica, audience Q&A, and some mild drug use.A big thanks to everyone who came out to Captain Nick's! 2022-06-081h 36
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #152022-06-0629 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 58: Eben Horton- The Glass Float Project and Creating a PhenomenonEben Horton is not the type of guy who needs or necessarily likes a lot of attention. Unfortunately for him that's exactly what he's been getting as of late thanks to The Glass Float Project he created. The reason he created the project is about as altruistic as it gets. Ebin simply felt as though people on Block Island needed something to do. But there was a specific event that triggered the thought which Ebin has not spoken of until this interview. Turns out a tragic accident inspired what has become perhaps Block Island's number one pastime- g...2022-06-011h 19
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #142022-05-2940 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 57: Edie Blane (Part 2)- The Matriarch's TalePart two of our conversation with Block Island icon, Edie Blane.2022-05-2559 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 56: Edie Blane (Part 1)- The Matriarch's TaleEdie Blane is a force of nature. She has spent nearly her entire life on Block Island. At 93 years old, that means that Edie has seen a lot come and go. Luckily for all of us, her memory is sharp as a tack. Her stories...are priceless.Through hurricanes, economic upturns and downturns, a world war and moped infestations Edie has observed life on Block Island with a keen eye. Her early days on Block Island could be described as hard-scrabble yet idyllic. Although life was never easy, there was a simplicity to it that is hard...2022-05-181h 07
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 55: Bob "Buzz" Kocak- On The AirWhen Rich and Marc decided to pull the trigger and launch the TGOBI podcast, they sought out the advice of a veteran broadcaster with deep ties to Block Island...Bob Kocak earned his nickname "Buzz Knight" during his early days in radio (hint- it has something to do with Boz Scaggs). That would've been sometime in the 1970's when Buzz served as a DJ at a number of major market stations. During our conversation Buzz talks about his journey through the industry and cold calling Howard Stern (then program director at WRNW in Briarcliffe Manor, NY) while...2022-05-111h 12
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 54: Sarah Callan- Mystic Aquarium's SuperheroHere's the scenario...You're walking on a deserted Block Island beach and come upon a seal pup. It just seems to be laying there. Is it ok? Is it hurt? Is it sick? What exactly do you do?You call Sarah Callan, Mystic Aquarium's Marine Life Rescue Coordinator. Or you can just listen to our interview with Sarah where she explains how to tell if an animal is in distress or simply just taking a break from swimming around and catching food.In this delightful chat Rich and Marc learn all about the path Sarah...2022-05-041h 09
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 53: Steven Wright- Getting Off The TrainIn their first conversation of Season Three- Rich and Marc sit down with groundbreaking comedian, actor and island local Steven Wright to find out exactly what drew him to Block Island and why he comes back year after year. If you're a fan of Steven's work and are expecting a behind the scenes look at his career in show business you may be disappointed. With so much of Steven's history having already been discussed elsewhere (including a star-making first appearance on the Tonight Show where Steven was summoned to the couch by none other than Johnny himself) t...2022-04-271h 06
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 52: Welcome To Season Three!We're baaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!!!Whew! What a long, cold winter it was! Thankfully spring has begun which means Rich and Marc have come out of hibernation and are READY for Season 3!In this episode the Two Guys catch up on what happened over the winter both in their own lives and on Block Island. Turns out it was a pretty uneventful winter for once! But that doesn't mean there's nothing to talk about. Between the impending broadband internet upgrade, public transportation issues and general island stuff, there's plenty of ground to cover as the specter o...2022-04-201h 13
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 51: Season Two- Wrap UpRich and Marc close the books on Season Two of Two Guys on Block Island with a recap of their favorite moments, memories and a look ahead at what to expect for Season Three!2021-11-101h 18
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 50: Everett Littlefield (Part 2)- The Italian BidetPart Two of our conversation with Everett Littlefield...2021-11-031h 06
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 49: Block Island Ghost Stories (Vol. 2)2021-10-271h 04
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 48: Maurice Raymond- Gathering No MossWARNING: This episode contains adult language. Like...more than usual. Anyone not wanting to shell out a few hundred dollars to see The Rolling Stones these days would be just as well served springing for the ten dollar cover charge at Captain Nick's when The Blushing Brides are in town. The "World's Most Dangerous Tribute to The Rolling Stones" has been doing back to back weekends at the end of July/early August for over 20 years and frontman Maurice Raymond has a lot to say about it!But don't mistake Maurice for a mere Mick J...2021-10-201h 27
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 47: Berke Marye- What's Cookin'What's your favorite ingredient to cook with? We like cucumbers. Especially cool ones. And there is no cooler cucumber than Winfield's head chef Berke Marye.Rich and Marc sit down with one of Block Island's most celebrated culinary wizards to find out what it takes to turn out FANTASTIC food night after night. We discover that it's a whole lot of hard work, dedication, leadership and teamwork. And Berke has indeed assembled a team; a well-oiled machine capable of consistently delivering top-notch noshes to a sometimes VERY picky clientele.But Berke's artistry is not confined...2021-10-131h 08Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 46: Ben Smith- On Getting The LaughsSomething funny's going on in this episode. Like...REALLY funny! And that's thanks to island funnyman Ben Smith who has dedicated his life to what is perhaps the most challenging form of performance based art known to man- stand up comedy. When it's just you and a microphone in front of an audience all manner of things can happen. In this episode Ben shares with us some of his stories about the ups and downs of trying to make people laugh for a living. Spoiler alert- it ain't as easy as it sounds.We also t...2021-10-061h 16
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 45: The Booze Beggars- Still Beggin' After All These YearsIn this episode Rich conducts an interview with Block Island's most notorious Rock and Roll outfit, The Booze Beggars.This time around Marc finds himself on the other side of the mic along with his bandmates Steve "Lightnin'" Lighty, John Whitaker, Dominic Nardini and Peter Voskamp. And there's no shortage of stories here although some of the facts get...hazy...to say the least.Find out how this rag tag bunch of musicians organically coalesced to form a musical outfit that held the "house band" position at Captain Nick's for the better part of a...2021-09-291h 13
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 44: Scott Comings- For The BirdsAt first glance Scott Comings might appear just another earthy-crunchy, tree hugging hippie. And while Scott may not entirely disagree with this assessment his conversation with Rich and Marc reveals a person with an encyclopedic knowledge of our avian inhabitants.Basically, there's nothing that Scott doesn't know about birds. In our chat we find out that Scott's love for fine feathered friends began as an obsession at a very early age. With Block Island already known for being a bird watcher's paradise, Scott explains exactly why the island serves as a migratory rest stop and when and...2021-09-221h 15Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 43: Chris Warfel- Harnessing the Sun and Harvesting OystersRich and Marc are rarely the two smartest guys in any given room. This has never been more the case than when Chris Warfel stopped by to chat. In our interview with Mr. Warfel we discover what it takes to operate and maintain Sun Farm Oysters, Chris's oyster farm located on a secluded inlet off the Great Salt Pond. Turns out that the area is the perfect spot to raise some of the most delicious bivalves in New England. It's a labor of love with an emphasis on the word, "labor".Rich and Marc also t...2021-09-1500 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 42: Cam Greenlee- One LoveCam Greenlee's grandparents came to Block Island many years ago and purchased a home on Cormorant Cove. The house served as the backdrop to Cam's first memories of an idyllic Block Island childhood. Cam's family shuttled back and forth from their home in City Island, NY to Block Island every summer. We talk with Cam about his family life and early years on Block Island and learn much about this chill dude.Cam has since gone on to become an accomplished Reggae and Jazz musician and toured the world with groundbreaking Reggae act, "The Skatelites". Life as...2021-09-081h 14
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #132021-09-0635 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 41: Blake Filippi- Politics and Raw MilkBlake Filippi grew up with his two brothers at Ballard's. His father Paul Filippi Sr. purchased the infamous beach bar after spending a week camping on the beach in a tent. Before that Blake's Dad had opened the first desegregated night club in Providence where Ray Charles, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington and other greats performed.Blake's early days on the island were filled with the usual shenanigans a young person gets into. But after graduating high school Blake went on to college then law school. He passed the Bar and continues to work as a lawyer.2021-09-011h 18
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #122021-08-2846 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 40: Lisa Starr (Part 2)- Poetry In MotionIn the second part of our interview with Lisa Starr we FINALLY get around to discussing poetry with the former Poet Laureate of Rhode Island. We all know Lisa can talk but it's her prowess with the written word that has garnered her the most attention.Don't get me wrong, we talk about a lot of other stuff too. We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did!2021-08-251h 25
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #112021-08-2136 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 39: Pat Cobb- Embracing Block Island and it's HistoryPat Cobb truly loves Block Island. Not only has he chosen to make his life here but he also has taken it upon himself to become an expert on the indigineous people who resided here before the island was "discovered" by Adrian Block.At one time Native Americans lived on Block Island and created a culture rich in tradition. The artifacts they left behind are plentiful and provide a stunning insight into a lost world. A world that was unjustly taken from them. A world in which for hundreds of years they raised families, fished and lived...2021-08-181h 17
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod # 102021-08-1329 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 38: Dr. Westchesterson- UNMASKED!Dr. Westchesterson may be the most famous rapper in Western Massachusetts, but he's no stranger to Block Island either. In fact, he just might be more well known here than there by this point. But the Dr. has a secret...he's not really a doctor.Actually, he's Rich's podcast partner Marc Scortino. Although- we’re not quite sure whether that's really true either. It could be that Marc actually IS Dr. Westchesterson. Or that the alter-ego Marc created in 2012 as somewhat of a joke is slowly taking over. It's confusing. There's a lot to unpack.An...2021-08-111h 26
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #92021-08-0728 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp.37: Everett Littlefield (Part 1)- On Block Island's "Good Old Days"Life doesn't always go in a straight line. Sure, there are some things that are the same for all of us. We're born...yada yada yada...we die. But what happens in between those two events is what makes up a life. And what a life Everett Littlefield's had.And much like Everett's meandering life, our conversation (delightfully, we might add) did just that. From growing up on Block Island transporting luggage for the summer folk to their cottages to finally leaving to see the world...or...Quonset Point at least; we cover a lot of ground...2021-08-041h 01
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #8- Support the BI Tourism Council!PLEASE support the members of the Block Island Tourism Council who are being sued by current president, Steve Fillipi. We are urging you to all write letters to the Block Island Times and ask that Steve step down from the Tourism Council IMMEDIATELY and drop his frivolous lawsuit that is causing undue stress and possible financial harm to these hardworking people who truly have the best interests of Block Island in their hearts.-Rich and Marc2021-08-0150 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 36: Allie Kiley- Beach Volleyball and LegaciesAllie Kiley's late father, Dick Kiley, was one of the most beloved First Wardens to ever grace the Block Island town council. Although he left us too soon, his legacy can be seen and felt everywhere. Rich and Marc spend a good deal of time discussing this legacy with Allie. It's hard not to as the man who first brought mopeds to Block Island (only to soon after get rid of them at the town's behest) is truly an icon and a sorely missed one at that.But the episode belongs to Allie whose early days here...2021-07-281h 06
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #72021-07-2533 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 35: Sven Risom- Not Just Another Old YarnTown Council member Sven Risom's jovial demeanor masks a sharp wit and keen intelligence. In this episode we find out about Sven's early days on the island and how he came to found North Light Fibers with wife, Laura. It's a true cottage industry that is unique in many ways. Sven then indulges Marc who grills him about growing up the son of Jens Risom. Jens was an innovator of mid century furniture design and manufacturing. The "Risom House" on Block Island is infamous in its own right.After the sponsor break Rich and Marc t...2021-07-211h 20
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 34: Meg & Josh- How to Build a Mutt HutMeg Vitacco and Josh Maldonado came to Block Island specifically because they were looking for a place that was dog friendly. While living in Brooklyn a Google search for "dog friendly" beaches returned Block Island as an option.The self proclaimed club kids packed up their pooch, Radar, and hopped on the ferry. The rest is history! It was love at first sight. While many people visit Block Island and consider a life change- few actually follow through. Meg and Josh took the plunge and now they are an integral part of the community.Dogs...2021-07-1458 min
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #62021-07-1130 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 33: Charlie Weber- Rangers Lead the WayWe felt that with the 4th of July having just passed, now would be a good time to drop this episode. Our guest this week is head of the Block Island American Legion, Charlie Weber.Marc and Charlie met each other in 6th or 7th grade. Lots of shenanigans back then. Both set out for college but Charlie's life ended up on a different course.But before we delve into that, we talk about Charlie's first summer on Block Island where he met his future wife, Heidi Ernst. It wasn't a typical courtship in a...2021-07-071h 31
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #52021-07-0522 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 32: Lindsay Tretheway- Growing Up The TretheWAYIn this episode Rich's daughter Lindsay stops by to chat about what it's like to grow up on Block Island. When you spend your formative years on an island, certain things mainland youths might take for granted were a whole new kettle of fish for Linds.We discuss Lindsay's experiences working for her Mom and Dad at Sharky's the restaurant owned and operated by Rich and Gary Censorio. It was truly a family affair with both families pitching in to make one of Block Island's most beloved restaurants operate smoothly.Lindsay talks about finally leaving...2021-06-3058 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 31: Todd Corayer- The Fish Wrap WriterThis episode brought to you by:BI Fishworks - Captain Nick's - Mar Mar Jewels/Blockstar - Diamond Blue Surf ShopTodd Corayer is an interesting guy. Not only was he Block Island's first oyster farmer, he's also a talented writer. He's parlayed his all around knowledge of fishing into a career. His columns about fishing and other outdoors-y activities have been published far and wide. He's now in charge of a successful blog dedicated to all things angling called, The Fish Wrap.Although Todd doesn't live on Block Island anymore...2021-06-231h 12
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #4Happy Father’s Day!2021-06-2116 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 30: Chris Willi- Fishing Makes You SaltyThis week's episode courtesy of:Captain Nick's - Club Soda - Eil's - The Darius InnChris Willi's not afraid to speak his mind. The former town councilor speaks candidly about his time on the council. But don't expect any ranting and raving or diatribes here. If there's one thing he's learned it's that having honest, frank discussions about tough topics are crucial to our success as a community. We'll get Chris's views on a wide range of issues he faced during his tenure on Town Council. Ever wonder what a c...2021-06-161h 27
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #3Rich and Marc discuss a wacky plan to adjust the moons orbit. Oh… And Rich gets boarded by the Coast Guard.2021-06-1323 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 29: Kate McConville- Crabs, Clams, Sharks and BoatsThis week's episode courtesy of:Fort Island Kayaks - Dish Off The Block - Seapod - The Traveling SeamstressKate McConville came to Block Island and was hired by Joan Abrams as the "bread girl" at the Manisees Restaurant. After a few days of serving dinner rolls to the hoity-toity's Kate was informed that she simply wasn't, "Manisees Material" and was sent to work at the Oar instead. This ended up suiting Kate just fine. She found a home at the Oar and her time there was wonderful. Little did she k...2021-06-091h 06
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #2In this mini pod Rich talks about taking his first high-speed ferry ride in a few years. Marc talks about getting back to playing live music at Captain Nicks. The Two Guys provide some helpful information in terms of mask mandates, important hours of operation for certain island businesses and then discuss some news items including a proposed repurposing of certain areas around the airport.2021-06-0627 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 28: Vin McAloon- The Reluctant MidwifeThis week's episode courtesy of:BI Fishworks - The Neptune House - Fort Island Kayaks - Diamond Blue Surf ShopVin McAloon is one of Block Island's elder statesmen. He arrived on Block Island at eight days old in 1939. Things were different back then and Vin's memories of his early days paint a vivid picture of simpler times on the island.His family bounced around from rental property to rental property for many summers. One memorable tenure at the Saloveiken property found Vin waking up in the morning, opening his front...2021-06-021h 32
Two Guys on Block IslandHi-Speed Minipod #1So here goes nothing!!! It's our first "minisode". We found that our conversations with our guests are far too interesting, at least to us, and we couldn't fit any current events and other shiz that we hoped to get into. These "minisodes" will be shorter than our regular episodes and will be just the two of us. Most of the time. We think. We will be chit chatting about stuff that matters more today, reading some listener emails and discussing listener comments. Perhaps we may even go down a side road on our opinions on big world stuff and h...2021-05-3030 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 27: Block Island Do's and Don'ts (Part 1)This week's episode courtesy of:Captain Nick's - BI Fishworks - Eli's - Lila Delman Compass We were going to call this episode, "Tips for Tourists". Then we realized a couple of things. One, even if you live on or visit Block Island regularly there are still places you probably haven't been or seen. So this episode may be of interest to you even if you have been to the island before.Two, in these woke days we're living in, we want to be sensitive to those visitors to Blo...2021-05-261h 03
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 26: Lisa Starr (Part 1)- The Soul of a PoetThis week's episode courtesy of:Fort Island Kayaks - Yellow Kittens - Blockstar/Mar Mar Jewels - The Atlantic InnLisa Starr has lived many lives on Block Island. She doesn't live here anymore. She's a poet. And poets tend to wander. This would explain our conversation with Lisa. There's not a whole lot of linear things happening here and that's what makes this one of our most electrifying and heady episodes to date. We'd like to tell you more but frankly, we're exhausted. We love Lisa Starr. And s...2021-05-191h 14
Two Guys on Block IslandEp 25: Ed McGovern- The Luck of the IrishThis week's episode courtesy of:Block Island Fishworks - Captain Nick's - Club Soda - Diamond Blue Surf ShopWillie Nelson once sang, “The nightlife ain’t no good life, but it’s my life”. While this may be true for most, Ed McGovern might disagree. He’s spent a good chunk of his Block Island career running taverns and for the most part- things seem to have turned out just fine for Ed. That’s not to say that Ed’s life on the island hasn’t been without problems. For example, what...2021-05-121h 11
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 24: Paige Linda- No WorriesThis week's episode courtesy of:Captain Nick's - Fort Island Kayaks - Seapod - The Darius InnPaige Linda drops by to catch up with Rich and Marc about life and stuff. And Paige has a pretty good life. But you know what they say...the grass is...always......it's always...something. A rolling stone gathers no grass? No...wait.Well- whatever. Anyways, for as good as Paige has it. There's some stuff that goes along with it. Forget that this Mother of a young dragon (named...2021-05-051h 09
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 23: Joe Houlihan- Block Island's Saint PeterThis week's episode courtesy of:Fort Island Kayaks - Block Island Fishworks - The Neptune House - Lila Delman CompassAn hour can fly by pretty quickly when you're with one of Block Island's quintessential storytellers. Rich and Marc get sucked into Joe Houlihan's wormhole of wit and wisdom right off the bat and there's no looking back.Well, actually- there's a lot of looking back. In fact...that's pretty much what we do for the whole hour. So hit play and hear all about Joe's Journey from his d...2021-04-281h 02
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 22: Welcome to Season Two!Welcome back to Season Two of Two Guys on Block Island! This week's episode courtesy of:Block Island Fishworks - Winfield's Restaurant - Dish Off the Block - The Traveling SeamstressIn this episode, Rich and Marc shake the cobwebs off and discuss what they did all winter as well as what's been happening on the island since their break. Turns out- a lot has happened!From changes of the guard at Town Hall, the BI Police Department and the BI Times to the great Moped debate- Rich and...2021-04-211h 05
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 21: Season One- Wrappin' It Up...For NowIf you've made it all the way to Episode 21 then from the bottom of our hearts...Thank you.We hope you had as much fun as we did this season. We're going to take a little break until Spring and maybe catch up on some paperwork. But most likely we'll be goofing off. At any rate- thanks so much for listening and be sure to stay in touch with us on social media over the coming weeks and months. We'll be posting updates on exactly when Season 2 will hit the airwaves! Or...the internet. Whatever.2021-01-2057 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 20: Hank Hewitt (Part 2)- Finding Fish...and LovePart Two of our conversation with Hank Hewitt!2021-01-1347 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp.19: Hank Hewitt (Part 1)- Picking It Up and Putting It DownHank Hewitt is a force of nature. Like a hurricane wrapped inside a tornado drowned in a tsunami then blown out of a volcano. Hank's path is both wildly random and at the same time perfectly ordered as if the hand of some extraterrestrial force was guiding him towards an ultimate wisdom. And while Hank's journey is far from over, he'd probably shake off any hyperbole surrounding his life. Here's a guy who's happy as long as he's got a fishing pole in his hand. Even when he doesn't...he's still pretty damn happy.We're n...2021-01-0646 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 18: Madden Gracy- The Summer HustleMadden Gracy is hungover. She doesn't appear any worse for the wear though. That's because she's young. They say youth is wasted on the young which may be true unless the youth in question is wasted.We joke but let's face it- when you're in your twenties and working on Block Island for the summer you're most likely going to attend a few parties. And while we certainly don't make light of the problems that can come with the consumption of too much alcohol on a too frequent basis, there is something to be said for sewing...2020-12-3054 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 17: Bryan Wilson- Lord of the WindsBryan Wilson is one of Block Island's more recognizable characters if only for his imposing frame. At over six feet tall Bryan has a hard time blending in a crowd. But if there were ever a true definition of "gentle giant", Bryan fits the bill. His calm, even-keeled demeanor makes for a fantastic interview. And what an interview it is...A long-time year round resident, Bryan has worn many hats over the years. Besides having helmed one of the most successful design/build firms on the island, Bryan has most recently been integral in bringing the East...2020-12-2355 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 16: Jon Damm- Rollin’ With the PunchesSome of our guests are high profile. Others choose to dwell simply here on Block Island, doing their thing and keepin’ it real.Jon Damm falls in to the later category. He’s a year-round resident who has also has Rose blood in him. He first came to Block Island in 1956 and lived in a house his family constructed by salvaging a portion of the old rail station that used to exist up the Neck. The house didn’t have electricity but that didn’t bother Jon. Neither did lack of telephone service which didn’t arrive until the 1...2020-12-1658 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp.15: Matt Michnovetz- Bivalves, Bloody Marys and the ForceUp to this point, our interviews have been with people who either live on Block Island year-round or spend the majority of the summer here. In this episode, we talk with a frequent visitor who at the time of this interview was in the middle of a two week stay during September 2020- his longest sojourn on the island to date.A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away Matt Michnovetz saw Star Wars for the first time. Years later when a number of his high school friends (including TGOBI host, Marc Scortino) began migrating...2020-12-0954 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 14: Lisa Sprague- The Silence of the ClamsLisa Sprague clams up when you start sniffing around for her chowder recipe. Same goes for her Stuffies. What's a Stuffie? Some would say a tiny clam meatloaf served in an ashtray. There are a few variations on how to serve a Stuffie. And the exact ingredients added to the butter, breadcrumbs and clams remain unknown. Lisa is like a Knights Templar. Guardian of a vast and important secret handed down through generations and protected under a veil of mystery.Clams run in the family. Lisa's Dad, the legendary Bo Gemp was a "tonger" (a pro...2020-12-0259 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 13: Adrian Mitchell- Down on the FarmAdrian Mitchell is one of the most beloved figures on Block Island. He was born and raised here. He loves Block Island and Block Island loves him. And that's about all we have to say about that.Adrian is also a humble man so we're not going to sit here and tell you any more about how great he is. Hit "play" and find out for yourself.2020-11-2556 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 12: Becca and Christy Zendt- The Women of the DariusChristy and Becca Zendt are charming people. They have such an easy-going, friendly vibe that it's easy to forget they are also successful business women who have recently breathed new life into an old Dodge Street building- rechristening it, The Darius Inn. Thirteen years ago Christy Zendt was traveling to Nova Scotia with a friend. They decided to check out Block Island. After three days on the island, Christy decided this was the place, so she stayed. She found work with Ann Law at the Blue Dory Inn as a chambermaid/jack (or Jane) of all trades.2020-11-1859 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 11: Tom Mahoney- The Tao of T-BirdTom Mahoney came to Block Island for a bartending job at Yellow Kittens expecting to stay for one summer. Decades later, T-Bird has become a Block Island icon. He's worked at so many bars here that even he can't remember them all.T-Bird's free-wheeling lifestyle has earned him the reputation as one of the ultimate good time party guys. Along with this comes an outlook on life that doesn't always jive with the nine to five. There's no way to summarize our conversation with The Bird. It's all over the place. There are nuggets of w...2020-11-1152 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 10: Pam Gelsomini- Dishing on Block IslandPam Gelsomini has been coming to Block Island since she was born. Back then her name was Pamela Anderson. Go ahead and make your Baywatch joke- we did too. Pam will laugh right along with you. However Pam's accomplishments are no laughing matter. We'll get to those in a bit.The Breakers was a boarding house on Corn Neck Road that had been owned and operated by Pam's family since the late 1800's. It was a place where Swedish folks would congregate to enjoy their summer vacations. They even had a six hole (Par 3) golf course on...2020-11-0455 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 9: Block Island Ghost Stories (Vol. 1)Spoooooooky things are ALWAYS afoot on Block Island. And we're not just talking about the line for the ferry after Ballard's lets out.While the average year-round population hovers above or below a thousand, it may actually be higher if we were to count all of the ghostly residents trapped here. As you know, spirits are unable to cross bodies of water which accounts for the surplus of scary sightings and such.We begin our episode with Lisa Sprague who recounts a dinner with Betty Gann at the Blue Dory Inn where time flies. Apparently...2020-10-2852 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 8: Andre Boudreau (Part 2)- Seriously...Let's Get Serious.Andre Boudreau returns for part two of our in depth conversation with the town councilor currently running for First Warden. While part one was a hilarious stroll down memory lane, in part two Rich and Marc ask some tough questions.Andre explains his reasons for running for town council and underscores the difficulties the council has encountered in trying to make progress happen amidst a revolving door of town managers over the last few years. We learn how the problem with retaining a town manager directly impacts the council's ability to see projects through when the guard...2020-10-2156 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 7: Andre Boudreau (Part 1)- Are you SERIOUS?lo·qua·cious: /lōˈkwāSHəs/ adjectiveTending to talk a great deal; talkative. "Always loquacious, Andre was never at a loss for words"Rich and Marc had a laundry list of issues to discuss with Block Island Town Councilor and candidate for First Warden, Andre Boudreau. That simply didn't happen. Instead, the conversation meandered uncontrollably for well over an hour before our hosts realized that not one serious subject had been broached.Was Andre intentionally ducking some potentially uncomfortable, hard ball questions? Possibly. But one possible reason for the lack...2020-10-1457 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 6: Vin Carlone- The Chief of Police Stands His Ground"It's only an island if you look at it from the water". Amity Island's Police Chief Brody from the movie JAWS had his own way of rationalizing the insanity that can come with being the man in charge on a small rock surrounded by water. In the game-changing 1976 Blockbuster we're treated to a thumbnail sketch of some of the more mundane aspects of an island Police Chief's life. Block Island's Chief of Police, Vin Carlone, has a full plate as well. And while he hasn't had to hunt down a man-eating Great White Shark...yet, that task m...2020-10-0755 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 5: Dan Cahill- Left Hands and Mismatched SocksDan Cahill's long, strange trip from life as a 60's hippie radical to Block Island icon is chronicled in Episode 5.Before landing on Block Island in 1984, Dan had served as an extra in "Dirty Harry", bumped into Jerry Garcia on a bicycle ride from Seattle to San Francisco, helped build the stage at Woodstock (where he snubbed Jimi Hendrix) and joined the Hare Krishnas to hide out from a certain government anti-narcotics agency.We learn about Dan's relationship with Captain Nick, Ed McGovern and Lew Gaffet. These founding fathers of Block Island nightlife had PLENTY...2020-09-3055 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 4: Lars Trodson- The Man Behind the TimesRich and Marc dive right in with Lars Trodson- Editor in Chief of The Block Island Times. No stone is left unturned. Journalistic integrity? A must. But sometimes all the "news" isn't fit to print.I mean...because the mainstream media is a racket. Right? News networks owned by multi-national, global corporations serving as propaganda machines crank out content that bleeds and leads. Headlines go to the highest bidder. Old school reporting and stories of true human interest have died at many of our once-cherished, monolithic print-based publications.BUT!!!!At The B...2020-09-2354 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 3: Mike O’Brien- A Special Block Island TeacherOur friend Mike O’Brien, the Block Island School’s special education teacher stops by for a chat that includes some toilet talk. Not THAT kind! For some reason, we end the topic of rest rooms keeps coming up.Mike’s family has a long and storied history on Block Island going all the way back to Settler’s Rock. He’s got Ball blood in him. His ancestors have done everything from forming the Museum of Modern Art in New York City to driving a honey wagon. Told ya’ there’d be toilet talk.We also learn h...2020-09-1655 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 2: Jessica Willi- Talkin' TourismEpisode Two and our first interview...ever. It's with a pretty big wheel but she'd never cop to it. Her name's Jessica Willi and she's one of the people responsible for how the rest of America percieves Block Island.No pressure- right?But there's a lot more to Jess than just being a one-woman propaganda machine for her little slice of paradise in the middle of the ocean. Her family were frozen yogurt pioneers and she herself is an undisputed heiress to the "Chicken Athena" legacy. Yup...the original.Numero Dos a...2020-09-0956 min
Two Guys on Block IslandEp. 1: Where the HELL is Block Island?Where the hell is Block Island? Good question... Rich and Marc give you the basic rundown and answer some FAQ's about Block Island. Never heard of Block Island? This is the episode for you. If you already know about Block Island don't break your arm patting yourself on the back, Mr. Smarty Pants. There's still a lot you don't know. So leave it to a couple of locals to give you the skinny.Then we hear from Rich who is what we call a "year round island resident". This does NOT mean he's an "Islander". D...2020-09-011h 02