Shows
2023-01-2335 minPop ItThe Alisan PorterverseMs. Porter is on a different coast & we had our wires crossed. Molly & I will catch up with her very soon. In the meantime, here is a meandering overview of her life and work with honorable mentions to Falling for Christmas (ft. Lindsay Lohan), Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping, The Redeem Team, Sumner Stroh, A Chorus Line, Every Little Step, & of course, Curly Sue. Alisan Porter will perform at Polar Park on October 22 as part of Rhythm for Ribbons. xoxo
2022-10-1440 min
Pop ItPop Culture Recap Summer 2022Bennifer 2.0, Don't Worry Darling, Funny Girl, Abbott Elementary, Do Revenge, and wine.
2022-09-231h 12
Pop ItSpecial Delivery ft. KindRunMeet Julia Germaine and Jessie Heasley of Worcester's first cannabis delivery service, KindRun. KindRun’s mission is to provide convenient and seamless home delivery of cannabis products to clients across Massachusetts from a high-quality e- commerce platform. As a Social Equity, Veteran-owned and female-led business, we support a diverse and accessible cannabis market, and seek to normalize the responsible use of cannabis by adults. (Photos by Unity Mike!)
2022-06-1735 minPop ItDean of WPI Business School Rev. Dr. Debora JacksonReverend Dr. Debora Jackson is Dean of the Business School at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a premier STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) based institution recognized for project-based education that integrates the theory and practice of management. In response to changing industry needs, Dr. Jackson seeks to promote research, collaboration, and partnerships that understand broader societal needs and recast the vision for business education in ways that prepare leaders to disrupt, reorient, and innovate for societal impact.
2022-05-1837 min
The No BS Human Design PodcastEp. 22 How To Become a Journalist with Sarah Connell SandersSend us a textI was recently answering questions on Instagram when someone asked me..."How do I become that? How do you even get started in that job?"It hit me that so many women out there want to do something different, but have no idea how to get started. So I am now introducing...The How To Become SeriesHave a love for writing? Thinking about the possibilities of making a profit from doing it?If so, this episode is for you.Meet S...
2022-04-0738 minPop ItOscars Recap 2022Troy Kotsur and Youn Yuh-Jung stole our hearts, Will Smith and Chris Rock made our jaws drop, Timothée Chalamet and Kristen Stewart showed us some skin...this year's Oscars Ceremony was full of surprises.
2022-03-3043 min
Pop ItPink Boots Bonus ft. Brewery CEO Dani BabineauThe Pink Boots Society exists to ASSIST, INSPIRE, and ENCOURAGE women, beer professionals, through EDUCATION. We stopped by Redemption Rock Brewery to learn more about their 2022 Pink Boots Brew, "Spare us..."
2022-03-2506 minPop ItLove is Blind & CODAWe discuss the very sophisticated scientific experiment chronicled on Love is Blind Season 2. We also have high praise for Marlee Matlin and CODA.
2022-03-0440 min
An Untold NarrativeAn Untold Narrative : 0057 - Sarah Connell SandersIn episode 0057, we sit down with the lovely creative writer Sarah Connell Sanders. Sarah is a Worcester, Massachusetts native, where she continues to make huge waves inside the community here. From supporting the local teaching community, to creative writing for the largest magazine, to a radio show and podcast - everyone around town has heard of or met Sarah themselves. This is the first time weve featured back to back episodes with guests who are writers, so I'm excited for you all to listen to this. Follow Sarah's Journey : https://www.instagram.com/sarah_connell/ https://www.sarahconnellsanders.com/--- Bea...
2022-02-1045 minPop ItBill Belichick & the Case of the Botched BriansBrian Flores was surprised to get a congratulatory text from Bill Belichick informing him he had landed his dream job with The Giants. There was just one problem: Bill had texted the wrong Brian. Flores hadn't even interviewed yet and The Giants had already given the position away. What follows is a class-action claim addressing racist hiring practices that have plagued the NFL for far too long. We also predict our favorite Superbowl commercials and praise Peyton Manning's comedic timing on SNL.
2022-02-0336 minPop ItDecluttering with Adriana KeefeAdriana Keefe is a purpose-driven life coach based out of Central Massachusetts who specializes in helping women declutter their homes and their lives. You can learn more about her work at https://www.adrianakeefe.com/ or tune into her show “Women Who Want More” wherever you get your podcasts.
2022-01-1037 minPop It2021 Pop Culture Wrap UpOur favorite things to read, watch, and listen to in 2021, plus a few thoughts on Adam McKay's new Netflix release "Don't Look Up." Molly's Picks Reads: New Gawker (lol), honestly considering just cracking open a Babysitters Club book at this point in the pandemic Movies: Dune. West Side Story, Mortal Kombat Songs: Solar Power, Last Train Home Shows: White Lotus, Hacks, What We Do in the Shadows, The Beatles: Get Back Sarah's Picks Reads: Who is Maud Dixon, Elen Hilderbrand, and Jane Green Mov...
2022-01-0154 minPop ItPretty Powerful: 100 Years of Voting & StyleEnjoy our guided tour of Worcester Historical Museum's landmark exhibit "Pretty Powerful." Listen as co-chairs Marlene Persky and Moyra Moynihan Manoog take us counter-clockwise through the gallery, along with curator Charlotte A. Haller and Director Anne Sadick. Hear the stories behind special pieces contributed by former First Lady Michelle Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as local legends like Senate President Emerita Harriette Chandler and Southeast Asian Coalition Executive Director Anh Vu Sawyer. The exhibit is open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM through March 31, 2022.
2021-11-2338 minPop ItWorcester Cold Case: Patricia GonyeaPatty Ann was a 17-year-old student at South High in 1984. Her two best friends are also named Patty. Patty Dansereau and Patti Weagle L’Ecuyer. Collectively, they were known as “the 3 Patties.” On a cold, rainy Wednesday night in October, Patty Ann called her mom to say she'd be late coming home from her boyfriend's house where she was playing Trivial Pursuit. The next morning, family and police discovered her belongings in an alley near the train tracks and her body in a window well at a factory on Grand Street. Before her passing, Patty’s mother told the Telegram...
2021-11-0928 minPop ItDiane Cotter on "The Toxic Job of Being a Hero"Worcester Fire Department gear comes under scrutiny. We referred to Diane Cotter as 'Worcester's Erin Brockovich' after reading the September 2021 feature in Men's Health centered around her activism. (Then, we found out how true that moniker has become...) Cotter walks us through her husband Paul's battle with cancer and her own fight for justice. She is a force, born and bred in Worcester. We are eager to see what comes next.
2021-10-2055 minPop ItLive Show: A Conversation with Heather BishHeather Bish is an educator, an advocate, and a warrior. When her sixteen-year-old sister Molly was abducted and murdered in the year 2000, her life changed forever. Heather has sought justice for over two decades, not just for her sister—for all missing persons. As a member of the Massachusetts Missing Persons Task Force, she is taking the criminal justice system to task. Thank you to everyone who supported our first live show! Photos by Unity Mike Hendrickson. We are #WACfunded. Next, let’s talk about Patty Gonyea. Pop It shirts are now available at Crompton Collective from our...
2021-10-0457 min
TranscendWithMBreaking Down Social Barriers With Sarah Connell SandersSarah Connell Sanders is committed to being an ambassador for the city of Worcester. Other than her role as a public school teacher, Sanders is a prolific journalist, averaging 3,000 words per week in local publications. Sanders’ work creates conversations around important social issues like sexual misconduct, policing, the wage gap, and urban development. She won the 40 under 40 Award by WBJ and is here to share her story.
Episode Highlights:
Growing up in Worcester and going to Fordham. (0:59)
How did the community within the gym come to be? (3:07)
How to say “no”...
2021-09-2730 minPop ItWorcester's BrickBox Theater ft. Olivia ScanlonOur live show at the BrickBox is fast approaching on 9/30! Get your tickets here. In preparation for the big event, we met up with Managing Director Olivia Scanlon. This project is funded by the Worcester Arts Council.
2021-09-2037 minPop ItRemembering Molly BishOn September 30th, we will sit down with Heather Bish to reflect on the abduction of her sister, Molly Bish, which took place more than two decades ago at a Central Massachusetts pond. We are taking this opportunity very seriously and doing our homework to better understand the significant details of the case. If you feel comfortable attending, we hope you will join us for our live show at the BrickBox Theater at 7 PM on 9/30. Tickets are $6; proceeds will go to the Molly Bish Foundation. Thanks to the support of Worcester Arts Council, this event is #wacfunded.
2021-09-0854 minPop ItPop Summer 2021White Lotus, Larry David v. Alan Dershowitz, Bennifer, & more. We're back! I missed you, Molly. xoxo -S Live show at the JMAC Brick Box on September 30th: A Conversation with Heather Bish $6 Tickets to benefit the Molly Bish Foundation
2021-08-2456 minPop ItWhat are your arts and culture priorities for Worcester?Worcester Arts Council supports our efforts to elevate the voices of womxn & girls in the community through podcasting. Our most recent podcast pop-up took place in Great Brook Valley at the first POW! WOW! Worcester event of the summer. Artist Stephanie Benenson of Harbor Voices was on site to oversee an art installation titled "Not Alone" that combined recordings (5:30-15:20) and lasers to deliver a powerful message about mental health. Thank you for taking the WAC 2021 Funding Priorities survey. Its purpose is to identify areas of community interest for the Council's upcoming grant cycle. Projects funded under t...
2021-07-1318 minPop ItMicroschools with Shara ConroySchoolHouse aims to improve both the quality and safety of K-8 education by working hand in hand with parents to create local “pods” that provide a tailored learning experience. Nevertheless, a powerful New York Times op-ed recently referred to pods as “the latest in school segregation.” Clara Totenberg Green went on to say, “At face value, learning pods seem a necessary solution to the current crisis. But in practice, they will exacerbate inequities, racial segregation, and the opportunity gap within schools.” Shara explains why microschools are the right model for her right now.
2021-06-0231 minPop ItComedian Mairéad Dickinson ConnollyMairéad Dickinson Connolly has always admired Ali Wong, but motherhood has given her a fresh appreciation for the critically acclaimed comedian. We discuss Mairéad's own standup career and her new role as a show producer.
2021-05-2135 minPop ItJohnson & Fine, Authors of 'Let’s Talk Race: A Guide for White People' Fern L. Johnson, senior research scholar and professor emerita of English at Clark University, and Marlene G. Fine, professor emerita at Simmons University co-author Let’s Talk Race: A Guide for White People, a new book that confronts why white people struggle to talk about race, why we need to own this problem, and how we can learn to do the work ourselves and stop expecting Black people to do it for us.
2021-04-2856 minPop ItLife After Skylight (ft. Derek Thompson of Chez-Vous)Roller skating is more than just a pandemic pastime. We're examining Worcester's skate scene and talking about history, culture, and representation with Derek Thompson from Chez-Vous. Thank you to organizers Ellen Walsh and Ellen Benson for nurturing the local rollerskate community. And also to Naghmeh Eskandri, Penelope Angiulo, Jeanne D. Arc, and Lady LaRouge for their insights.
2021-04-2140 minPop ItWorcester's Jeopardy Contestant: Brendan SargentIt is Molly's one true destiny to someday appear on Jeopardy. When we found out Worcester native Brendan Sargent was going to be on the show, we had a lot of insider questions for him. How did you study? How sensitive was the buzzer? How did your charming anecdote land at the start of the episode? Brendan has graduated from Christ the King musicals to the LA comedy scene. Check out his web series "Dear John" to experience MTV Cribs for the bathroom enthusiast.
2021-03-1650 minPop ItCult Survivor & Musician Avanah SophiaAvanah Sophia grew up in the Faith Assembly cult under the teaching of notorious divine healer, Hobart Freeman who aided and abetted in the deaths of nearly 100 of his followers. Avanah has gone on to become an incredible mother, respected music teacher, and revered singer song-writer in Central Mass. Avanah’s liberation came when she realized she would rather live in dangerous freedom than peaceful slavery. We are so honored to share her story with you today.
2021-03-031h 08Pop ItFree BritneyEpisode 99 provides an extensive overview of the Free Britney movement, Golden Globes snubs, and celebs who exchange blood vials. Also, we love The Eggroll Lady!
2021-02-1949 minPop It"Clean Enough" with Katzie Guy-Hamilton of Cassata BakeryWorcester native Katzie Guy-Hamilton is the author of the "Clean Enough" cookbook, co-founder of Cassata Bakery, and a Top Chef alum.
2021-01-2939 minPop ItInauguration Mittens & Amanda GormanA Village People send-off, a sea of purple coats, a pair of hand-knit mittens, and an exquisite young poet—this was an inauguration day we won't soon forget.
2021-01-2230 minPop ItThe Spicy Sauce Crossover, Hosted by Food & Convo Che Anderson and Amy Peterson of Food & Convo host us for a virtual tasting of Grandeza Hot Sauce. Other guests include Ricky Nelson and Travis Duda of SeltzerTime, Jesse Burlingame of the Lonely Mans Podcast, and Shaun Connolly of WOOtenanny and An Actual Alt-Weekly Podcast.
2021-01-0640 minPop It2020 Pop Culture Wrap UpNormal People: Based on a Sally Rooney novel. Young Irish lovers. Connell’s chain. The chemistry! The Queen’s Gambit: Anya Taylor Joy (who I also loved in Emma) is a Chess wunderkind. The coats. The friendship with her school’s custodian. That kid from Love Actually... GBBO: The Bake Off came at a much needed time. They bubbled up at the tent just to give us a soothing, funny, and weird season. Matt Lucas’s first season as host was a success!! Final episodes of The Good Place: oh my GOD what a perfect show. The Half of...
2020-12-2950 minPop ItPublic Hearing Crossover Part 2Part 2 of our Public Hearing crossover. We discuss growth mindset, social-emotional learning, transgender rights, and the validity of SESTA (Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act). Public Hearing is a show about broken systems, the people affected by them, and how we can redesign them. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Action! by Design founder Joshua Croke. Photo at www.popitworcester.com by Unity Mike.
2020-12-2255 minPop ItPublic Hearing Crossover Part 1Part one of two. “Public Hearing” is a show about broken systems, the people affected by them, and how we can redesign them. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Action! by Design founder Joshua Croke. Photo at www.popitworcester.com by Unity Mike.
2020-12-1555 minPop ItKevin "The Rat" PerryThe story of a convicted restaurateur who tried to get a piece of Worcester’s restaurant renaissance, and failed. We all watched Kevin Perry's unraveling in real-time. Consider this a tidy summary. Thank you Masslive for your thorough local coverage. We wish you well, Stacey!
2020-11-1842 minPop ItClear mind, clear body, clear audio! (ft. Dr. Sean Lordan & Dr. Samantha Santiago)Concierge Physical Therapy offers women's health specialists who can help with pelvic pain and dysfunction to stop you from suffering in silence. Dr. Sean Lordan & Dr. Samantha Santiago answer our questions about the USA women's gymnastics team, Kris Jenner's devotion to Poise, and the many risks of "holding it." We also recommend a critical watch of Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.
2020-11-0445 minPop ItThe Rosie Report (ft. a brief *cameo* by Rosie O'Donnell)While Robert Mueller was conducting an investigation of Russian election interference, we were busy compiling our own report: The Rosie Report. Join us as we revisit the troubled history between Donald Trump and Rosie O'Donnell through the years. We also discuss Aaron Sorkin's new film, "The Trial of the Chicago 7," starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Worcester native, Abbie Hoffman.
2020-10-2750 minPop ItWorcester's Visiting Pastry Chef ft. Abigail RubinWe popped in for Sunday sandwiches at deadhorse hill to speak with Abigail Rubin, an NYC pastry chef who has worked for the greats at Marea, Grammercy Tavern, Carbone, and The Dutch. Unity Mike also caught up with Abby for some stunning photos, featured on our ig: @popitworcester.
2020-10-1442 minPop ItSun signs with Sara Jean Louis on The GridSara Jean Louis helped Boston-based developer The Grid to dial-in its brand identity over the last year. Sara's community engagement, spirituality, and passion for plants all shine through at The Grid's Worcester holdings, and sitting down with her is an introspective delight. Look for Sara on your next visit. If you're lucky, she might even give you a Tarot reading or ask to exchange Costar handles.
2020-10-071h 06Pop ItGame Designer Amanda TheinertGame designer Amanda Theinert heads up Becker's MFA program, (ranked #6 nationally among Game Design MFA programs.) She loves The Witness almost as much as she loves crystals. Plus, a little Submarine Machine remix to get you in the gamer spirit...
2020-09-3034 minPop ItThe Virtual EmmysMay RBG's memory be a blessing. We dig into the 2020 (pand-)Emmys, which featured big wins for Schitt's Creek and Succession. Brad and Jennifer reunite for a silly/steamy table read. Top marks to Emily Ratajkowski for her long-form essay about taking control of her own image. And, a happy 30th birthday to Molly!
2020-09-2332 minPop ItSocial Media Censorship (ft. Attorney Anne Conroy)We are so proud of our friend Anne Conroy, an associate at a BIG Manhattan firm. Her law review article about social media censorship was just published in a TOP 50 law review by George Mason. As Twitter and Facebook become the new town square, we consider the role of free speech as the cornerstone of our democracy. We also press Anne for her favorite musical (Moulin Rouge) to accompany her lawyerly click-clacking.
2020-09-1035 minPop ItWomen's Suffrage Centennial & WAP (ft. Yaffa Fain & Anne Sadick)"The 19th Amendment, recognizing women the right to vote, was ratified in August of 1920. Women’s Suffrage: Worcester 2020 celebrates the progress of American women since then, recognizes historic and present-day obstacles to universal suffrage, and works to increase voter education and engagement in our city. A volunteer working group drawn from various Worcester organizations and open to all, WSW envisions, organizes, and promotes a diverse series of events throughout the city in this anniversary year." Also, this week in pop culture: Boys State, WAP, Jennifer Garner, and Anne Heche's thoughts on Ellen.
2020-08-2147 minPop ItEllen isn't perfect. folklore. Black is King. (ft. Jennifer Riley of WAC):00-:15 Jennifer Riley is MFA Boston's Head of Image Licensing & Digital Archives in addition to serving on the Worcester Arts Council. Take the WAC survey and you'll be entered to win a pair of Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones ($399 value.) :15-:30 Ellen faces scrutiny from former guests and employees. folklore unleashes a multiverse within Taylor Swift. Black is King premiers on Disney+ with a TV-14 rating. And, we root for Catherine O'Hara in this year's Emmy's.
2020-08-1031 minPop ItPop It Live with Worcester State UniversityThis pop culture recap was broadcast live by Worcester State University. We remember Naya Rivera, scrutinize Annie Leibovitz, untangle Will & Jada, discuss the CAREN Act, and prepare for Taylor Swift's folklore drop. #WACFunded
2020-07-2943 minPop ItA Follow Up to our Conversation w/ Defund WPDThis is a conversation between friends. (We hope it feels familiar.) What makes the people in your community feel safe? We'd love to hear from you. Please take a moment to respond to this Worcester Arts Council survey to help determine their funding priorities for the future. #WACfunded
2020-07-0626 minPop ItA Conversation with Defund WPD (ft. Molly Bond & Michelle Puch)My own experiences reporting on the Worcester Police Department have informed my perspective on community policing up to this point. (I would like to acknowledge my serious place of privilege as a white middle-class woman.) Writing about Officer Alexander Maracallo, the Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation Initiative and the Shannon Grant painted a positive picture in my mind of the WPD's work with our City's youth. This interview with Molly Bond and Michelle Puch of Defund WPD pushed me to begin questioning the societal structures and systems I had come to accept as unchanging. We talked "guardian vs. warrior," school...
2020-06-2946 minPop ItOn Anti-Racism & Amplifying Black Voices (ft. Magdelene Barjolo)We are working to examine our own behaviors, become better listeners, and educate ourselves about racism—particularly as it relates to toxic white feminism (:00-:23). Magdelene Barjolo organized two successful rallies in Worcester during the month of June. We are so grateful for her contribution to this episode of Pop It (:23-:34).
2020-06-2234 minPop ItCocktail Countdown (ft. Joy Flanagan of MS Walker Imports)5 Cocktail tips from our friend Joy Flanagan 4 Remote celebrations 3 Quarantine barters 2 Cleaning hacks 1 WFH Workout Thank you to Solon Kelleher for producing this episode! Follow Joy on ig: @joyflanagan Tiktok: tiktoktailsanddreams
2020-05-261h 01Pop ItThe Millennial's Guide to TikTokAnother Beyonce inspired countdown: 5 quarantine anthems, 4 TikTok accounts to follow (:20), 3 things we've learned about ourselves (:35), 2high points (:48), and 1 low point (:53). Take care! xoxo M&S
2020-05-131h 01Pop ItPop Culture Countdown & Too Hot to Handle5 snacks (:0-:15) 4 things to watch, starting with Too Hot to Handle, (:15-:37) 3 internet purchases (:37-:43) 2 things we've learned (:43-:52) and 1 hug on locale (:52-:58).
2020-04-2759 minPop Itquar·an·time pop cultureReese Witherspoon’s "Disastrous Dress Giveaway" 250 dresses. 3 million teachers. "A Fatal Romance" "Visiting the Vegan Restaurant Chain Owned by a Cult" You’re Wrong About Marie Antoinette Evan Berger on TikTok Streaming: Good Boys, Paddington 2, Dark Waters, Dead to Me, Unorthodox
2020-04-1841 minPop ItPop Culture RundownWhen did you need that rundown by? As soon as possible. Cats VFX Editor Confirms the “Butthole Cut” Was Very Real, Very Terrible Chris Evans Doesn’t Like to Talk About Himself. But He Did. Sort Of. Inside Rapper Drake's Manor House in Hometown Toronto The Dream How to Look Good on Camera, According to Tom Ford They Were the Last Couple in Paradise. Now They’re Stranded. The Weirdly Enduring Appeal of Weird Al Yankovic Alison Roman: Dining In Streaming: Molly’s...
2020-04-1042 minPop ItThe Assassination of Andrew Haswell Green (ft. Bill Wallace—Executive Director of Worcester Historical Museum)Did you know the "Father of Greater New York" actually lived in Worcester? This week, we discuss the salacious tale of his assassination. Our telling is sourced from a variety of archived New York Times articles, Michael Rubbinaccio's gripping text: New York's Father Is Murdered!: The Life and Death of Andrew Haswell Green, and the commentary of Worcester's top historian Bill Wallace—Executive Director of Worcester Historical Museum. (There's also a sprinkle of Wikipedia, if we're being honest.) Musical interludes by Submarine Machine. Do you have more info about the fate of Hannah Elias? DM us at @popitworcester.
2020-03-2738 minPop ItDon't Touch Your FaceConsider your take out options, bake cookies, and enjoy some of our pop culture recommendations to get you through the week. Susan Orlean: “Life’s Swell” Sloane Crosley: “The Pony Problem” https://allpoetry.com
2020-03-1838 minPop ItModernism and the Queering of Eating (ft. Elizabeth Blake Ph.D. of Clark University)Usually our episodes drop on Wednesdays, but we sense that everyone could use an extra dose of content. Meet Dr. Elizabeth Blake of Clark University. Her research brings together gender studies, food, and early 20th century lit. In this episode, we pay tribute to Bahnan's (we love you Jimmy!), Cait Weaver, and MSG. We also compare Coronavirus reactions among our various educational institutions. Photos by Unity Mike. #WACfunded thanks to Worcester Arts Council. Intro music by Submarine Machine.
2020-03-1534 minPop ItCASA Project (ft. Julie Bowditch)Julie Bowditch has become a seasoned expert in the art of fundraising as an Advancement Officer for UMASS Medical School. In this episode of Pop It, she tells us why she got involved at CASA Project and what to expect at the Champions for Children Celebration on March 6. CASA Project recruits, screens and trains volunteers from the community to be appointed advocates for children that have been abused or neglected in Worcester County. We also discuss Taylor Swift's video for "The Man" and reactions to a recent Worcester Business Journal piece titled, "Disrespected." Photos by Unity Mike. Th...
2020-03-0449 minPop ItGreater Worcester Community Foundation (ft. President & CEO Barbara Fields)Is it more powerful to give $5k to 100 organizations or $100k to 5 organizations? Greater Worcester Community Foundation President & CEO Barbara Fields says, "Yes." We discuss housing options, community policing, and Barbara's presidential appointment in the Obama Administration.
2020-02-2646 minPop ItThe Ecotarium (ft. President & CEO Lucy Hale) Lucy Hale is paving the way for equal pay in the museum world. As the latest President & CEO of Worcester's beloved Ecotarium, she continues to put community first. We asked her about navigating climate change and evolution during her time in the Dallas museum/zoo circuit. We toured collections storage with the Ecotarium's brilliant curator Martin Christiansen. And, Lucy teased this year's Night at the Museum event on May 9, at which she plans to reveal the details of a new Namibian partnership. Photo by the talented Mike Hendrickson. This podcast is supported by Worcester Arts Council. #WACfunded #worcesterartscouncil
2020-02-1939 minPop ItOscars RecapHow are you feeling about Timothee Chalomet's Prada track suit? Did someone finally find Bong Joon Ho that Texas chainsaw? Will Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig get the gig? Did you lose yourself in the music? The moment?
2020-02-1234 minPop ItGrammys RecapA discussion of Deborah Dugan's dismissal, our favorite flautist, the problem with Finneas, Billie EIlish's breakout year, and Billy Porter's hat. We do our best to unpack this MassLive piece about Worcester's "Next Wave" which noted an emerging workspace for creatives at the intersection of Beacon Street and Jackson Street. We're in over our heads when it comes to defining "gentrification," but it seems we're not alone. What do you think of these studies? Do they help shed light on Worcester's situation or confuse things further? Extra Credit: "The Effects of Gentrification on the Well-Being...
2020-01-2937 minPop ItMegxit, Eh?We break down the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's astonishing decision to "step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family" in favor of Molson and poutine. We also review the irksome 2020 Oscar nominations. (JUSTICE FOR J.LO!) Oh, and have you pre-ordered one of Gwyneth's $75 TSLMV candles?
2020-01-1531 minPop ItDress for Success (ft. Beth Butler)Interviewers make up their minds about you within the first 7 seconds. Your appearance is the most important determinant of whether or not you'll get the job, followed by your attitude. The last thing they factor in is what comes out of your mouth. Dress for Success Program Director Beth Butler is dedicated to empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Beth grew up in Defiance, Ohio, then moved to NYC to work in the fashion industry, and now resides in...
2020-01-0143 minPop ItNight Lights (ft. Grace Elton of Tower Hill Botanic Garden)Exploring Tower Hill Botanic Garden with CEO Grace Elton. Tower Hill hosts the third oldest active horticultural society in the United States on 171 acres of ornamental, edible, and native plants. We also cover the $120k Basel banana, 2019's top TikToks, and a case of mistaken identity. Photos by Unity Mike.
2019-12-1847 minPop It2019 Pop Culture RoundupWe’re answering listener questions and sharing our pop culture picks for 2019. We also make our Pop It gift guide selections including: Sludge House Studio mugs, pink flamingo tees from Hundred Acre, Thumbs custom mashups, rose quartz rollers, Lincoln Crafted Candles, face masks, and nostalgic board games. Happy Holidays!
2019-12-1152 minPop ItMental Health Check-In (ft. Emily Swalec, MSW)We’re talking about Seasonal Affective Disorder and Mental Health with social worker Emily Swalec. Emily is a program director at YOU, Inc. a leading child welfare, behavioral health & education agency dedicated to helping children and families to flourish and reach their potential. What is your pop culture sunshine? Photos by our pal Unity Mike.
2019-11-2751 minPop ItGreen Building (ft. Andrea French—VP of Sustainable Comfort)Andrea French is the VP of Sustainable Comfort, a property firm that designs thoughtful buildings with minimal environmental impact while maintaining the architectural integrity of Worcester’s housing stock. Andrea talks about setting goals and shaping attitudes in both her personal and professional life. On the pop culture front: We are devastated to report that Rosie and Liz have called off their engagement. BUT, ALL HOPE FOR TRUE LOVE IS NOT LOST. Keanu Reeve's has found an age appropriate partner in visual artist Alexadra Grant. Long live romance.
2019-11-1348 minPop ItTimberyard Brewing Co. (ft. Cara Germain, Katie Ohanesian & Nellie Zarif)Timberyard Brewing Company in East Brookfield has only been open for one year, but it in that time, the Timberyard team has activated a whole new corridor for Worcester’s craft beer scene. Timberyard is more than just a brewery, it’s a community gathering place for artists, farmers, and families. It’s no surprise that three talented women are hard at work behind the scenes: Cara Germain, Katie Ohanesian, and Nellie Zarif. We talk about Syrian refugee art, Free Living Farm, and the week in pop culture. Would you rather spend Felicity Huffman's prison sentence barefoot or sans visito...
2019-11-0144 minPop ItHot Girl Halloween at Sweet Jane'sAJ Setaro of Sweet Jane's helps us explore how the year's top stories will translate into Halloween costumes. We discuss pregnant Meghan Markle, the hot Fleabag priest, distressed Lori Loughlin, Jonas bros, and besties: Ja Rule and Billy (and possibly the Situation.) We only brush the surface when it comes to saying goodbye to Worcester's official 'third space' The Dive Bar.
2019-10-1739 minPop ItThe Scoop (ft. Iris Lyons of WooBerry Ice Cream)Can you hear the commotion? She never stops. In between scoops, we caught up with WooBerry co-owner Iris Lyons who specializes in making small batch ice cream with locally sourced milk, cream, and Goat Cheese. In addition to her role as a small business owner, Iris is also a project manager at UMASS and a yoga teacher at Central Rock Climbing Gym. We close out the show with some love for both JLA and JLO. Photos courtesy of the talented Unity Mike. (Brace yourself for sounds of the city.)
2019-10-0337 minPop ItEmmy's Recap & Signature Chefs Auction Preview with March of DimesWe discuss the 2019 Emmy Awards including Julia Louis-Dreyfus' loss to Phoebe Waller-Bridge of Fleabag, the rise of Killing Eve’s Jodie Comer, and a Game of Thrones group photo—minus Bran. Our friends from Seltzer Time break some news about an elusive social media personality in our midst who goes by the moniker: @ipeelorangesverywell. Finally, we preview the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, set to take place this Thursday, September 26th at Mechanics Hall. We speak with event co-chair Devon Kinnard, a partner at Seder Law who is also the Presenting Sponsor for the event.
2019-09-2526 minPop ItSeptember Issue (ft. Allison Bamcat)We're recapping muralist Allison Bamcat’s workshop with a group of Worcester Public School 7th graders. We also discuss this year’s most surprising September issues and take a moment to draw some parallels between two recent profiles: Harry Styles for Rolling Stone and Brad Pitt for GQ.
2019-09-1939 minPop ItThe Women of Axe to Grind Barbershop (ft. Nicole Boucher & Shelby Reynolds)Nicole Boucher and Shelby Reynolds are the women of Axe to Grind barbershop. Too often, we think of barbershops as traditional “third spaces” for men to congregate, separate from work or home. The Axe to Grind team is breaking that mold one cut at a time by cultivating a diverse and creative presence in the community. We discuss Ariana Grande's lawsuit with Forever 21, Rosie O'Donnell's gorgeous mullet of yesteryear, and Just Bieber's bold decision to take his cat to the gym. Photos by Unity Mike.
2019-09-0631 minPop ItAloha Worcester Recap (ft. KAPLAN & Wooden Wave)We’re recapping the Aloha Worcester panel hosted by Arts Worcester during the POW! WOW! festival last week. The panel, moderated by Arts Worcester’s own Ryan Hacker, featured three artists based out of Hawaii: Kaplan/Kapache and Roxanne and Matt Ortiz of Wooden Wave. We discuss our students' reactions to the new murals along with the week in pop culture. What do you think of Taylor Swift’s new album? How do you like The Righteous Gemstones on HBO? Drop us a line on instagram @popitworcester.
2019-08-2931 minPop ItPOW! WOW! Worcester (ft. Lillipore)Over the next week, Natasha Lillipore will paint a mural in Worcester's Great Brook Valley neighborhood as part of the POW! WOW! Worcester festival. Lillipore is a contemporary illustrator based out of Southern California who has designed emojis for Topshop, live-painted at Rihanna’s Fenty Puma pop-up, and released a major cosmetics collection. You can catch a glimpse of her on the dance floor at the POW! WOW! Worcester opening party at 8 p.m. Saturday at Electric Haze at 26 Millbury St., Worcester.
2019-08-1636 minPop ItGrime and Film Wars (ft. Molly McGrath)Recommerce may be one of the hottest trends of 2019, but Molly McGrath has been curating unique retail experiences at Grime in Worcester for a long time. Molly’s personal style and fearless attitude are proof that sometimes the shopkeeper is just as important as the shop. She is organizing this year's Film Wars at Wormtown Brewery. Round up your friends and make a movie from 9/19-9/22 for a 9/28 premier.
2019-08-0841 minPop ItMinisode: Elias of WWE Smackdown LIVE!Do you have your WWE Smackdown LIVE! tickets yet? Molly talked to Elias "the Drifter" about his rise as an American professional wrestler, the women making WrestleMania milestones, and the strict diet of a superstar athlete. Get to know the sinister songsmith through a series of 'would you rathers.'
2019-07-1607 minPop ItTwenty Questions (ft. Molly O'Connor & Sarah Connell)Thank you for supporting this project over the last year. We take a lot of pride in elevating women's voices in the city of Worcester and we never imagined how quickly this community would embrace our efforts to do so. For our 50th episode, we answered 20 questions submitted by teenage girls from Central Mass. We did our best to speak with with honesty and vulnerability. We'll be back in August! Until then, you can find links to our favorite episodes at www.popitworcester.com or drop us a line on instagram: @popitworcester.
2019-06-2849 minPop ItChasing a Question (ft. Clare Smith & Whitney Allen)Aussie researcher Clare Smith and local veterinarian Whitney Allen discuss their scientific paths on this episode of Pop It, taped at the AC Hotel. Clare is chasing a question: 'What makes us sick?' while Whitney strives to educate pet owners across New England. We talk Steve Irwin, cube-shaped feces, and exotic critters.
2019-06-1947 minPop ItGrunge (ft. Megan Jasper of Sub Pop & Jenny Pacillo of Joey's)Sub Pop CEO Megan Jasper is a Worcester native with a passion for punks and pranks. She began as an intern for the iconic Seattle record label and has worked her way up. Some of Sub Pop’s recent releases include albums by Iron and Wine, The Postal Service, Band of Horses, Flight of the Conchords, Fleet Foxes, The Head and the Heart, The Shins and Father John Misty. Sub Pop’s first certified platinum release was Nirvana’s 1989 album, “Bleach.” We also spoke with Worcester's Best Server (and favorite mama) Jenny Pacillo. Jenny recently performed Kid Rock's "Baw...
2019-06-121h 00Pop ItTackling the Sex Trade (ft. Nikki Bell of LIFT)Nikki Bell is the CEO and Founder of LIFT, Living in Freedom Together. LIFT is a survivor-led organization working to end prostitution and empower individuals to exit and recover from the impacts of commercial sexual exploitation. Nikki reminds us that as long as there's a price on one woman's head, there's a price on every woman's head. She critiques S.I. Rosenbaum's recent Globe piece "The case for legalizing sex work." The AC Hotel generously hosted Pop It for the taping of this episode. Central Massachusetts Freedom Coalition has advocated for all hotels in Worcester to train employees to i...
2019-06-0545 minPop ItAnita To the Rescue (ft. Anita Amin)Anita Amin talks Indian weddings, melted frosting, and three legged dogs on this week's episode of Pop It, taped at the AC Hotel. Anita has patterned her friendships after Leslie Knope and her pets after April Ludgate. She loves Worcester's rebirth almost as much as she appreciates its gritty past. When was the last time you dusted off your Boxcar Children Cookbook?
2019-05-2945 minPop ItThe Business Plan (ft. Michelle Miller of CWE)We are joined by our guest Michelle Miller, Director of the Center for Women in Enterprise. This week, we're hosted at Worcester's posh AC Hotel. Michele helps women increase their personal growth, professional success, and financial independence. We imagine what it would be like to own a shop in the Canal District. Michelle talks Sarah through the Strategyzer business canvas, determining value propositions, revenue streams, and customer relations for her hypothetical business venture: "Memoir." We also hear the success story of https://getyourhomedetox.com. You can contact Michelle to receive free help with your own business plan by phone...
2019-05-2242 minPop ItBrimfield Fleas (ft. Ashley Troy & Emily Briggs)This week we’re joined by Ashley Troy of The Trunk n’ Disorderly and Emily Briggs of Bloom and Barter. We’re talking about Brimfield Antique Fair, America’s oldest outdoor antiques flea market. Ashley and Emily are known at Brimfield for their curated collection of vintage and handmade items. Find them under the striped tent in Central Park and make sure to ask them "what's the best you can do?"
2019-05-1548 minPop ItSparkle (ft. Ari Phillipi)We’re on site at Sparkle on Park with owner Ari Phillippi. Sparkle is part flowers, part art, and part local wonder. We’re chatting with Ari about what it feels like to make a name for herself as a new retail option in an established Worcester neighborhood. She's an aphishianado, a florist, and a creative. Hear why Birchtree Bread Co. is the best spot in the city for public breastfeeding and why Kim K deserves baby shower #4.
2019-05-0847 minPop ItBank On It (ft. Monica Thomas-Bonnick)We’re on the 19th floor at Webster Five Bank with Vice President Monica Thomas-Bonnick. Monica brings over 20 years of experience providing financing solutions for start-ups, women-owned businesses and franchises. Her career trajectory has spanned from the role of non-profit CFO to landing her a spot on Crain’s New York “Business 40 under 40” list. Don't forget her stint as a white water canoe instructor. These days, Monica is in the business of earning trust and building relationships in Central Mass.
2019-05-0141 minPop ItFeeling Beautiful (ft. NKD & Unity Mike Hendrickson)This week on Pop It, we’re on site at NKD Lashes, Waxing, and Makeup with estheticians Kristie-Lee Laskes and Crystal Whittemore. Per usual, we are joined by photographer Unity Mike Hendrickson, but this time he’s not behind the camera. We’re talking event logistics, wedding days, and the means by which a professional image can lead to women’s empowerment. NKD and Mike want to party with you like it’s 1999 at their 90’s Prom on May 4th to benefit Dress for Success. Find out why Kate Middleton isn’t really a princess. Plus, our introduction to NKD’s Game of...
2019-04-2457 minPop ItEqual Opportunities (ft. Stacey Luster)When Stacey Luster was elected in 1997, she was the first African American to serve on the Worcester City Council in over six decades. Now, she is the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources, Payroll, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity at Worcester State University. We’re discussing diversity, the gender pay gap, and advice for women looking to run for local office. Stacey received her hard-earned law degree from Boston University and we want to know what she thinks of Kim Kardashian West’s quest to become an attorney by an alternative path. Photos by our dear friend Unity Mike Hend...
2019-04-1835 minPop ItCraft Hairdressers (ft. Pageboy)This week, we’re on site at Pageboy Inc. where a team of craft hairdressers aim to elevate Worcester’s hair industry. We are joined by owners Brie Brooks and Carissa Clearwater along with stylist Leanne Rowe. Pageboy is quickly becoming a valuable meeting place for creatives throughout the city, including TRVST Collective, a group of artists, musicians, and craftsmen dedicated to honesty and freedom of expression. We talk face shapes, tattoo families, and public clapbacks. You were at my wedding, Denise! Photos by the talented Unity Mike Hendrickson.
2019-04-1239 minPop ItBig Beers (ft. Greater Good)This week on Pop It, we’re on site at Greater Good, America’s First All-Imperial Brewing Company. We are joined by beer and brand specialist JT Ethier, *startender* Katie Mahoney, and front of house manager Melissa Sherry. We’re talking abv’s, beer scandals, and conflicts of interest. How do you deal with the Carlas in your life? We sample the latest from Hella Cocktail Co. and dive into Bieber's hiatus. Sound by John Tonelli and photos by Mike Hendrickson.
2019-04-0453 minPop ItLive from Hanover Theater (ft. Anna MacInnis & Erin Hockey)This week, we’re on stage at Hanover Theater with Anna MacInnis of the Baphomettes burlesque troupe and Erin Hockey who recently appeared in the all-female butcher episode of Chopped. Anna and Erin are womb-level bff’s. We hear their beautiful origin story and then discuss the difficult realities of friend-breakups. Sitting alone in a 2,300 seat theater makes honesty come easily. We cover body positivity, mean girls, and fat rendering. Photos by the talented Unity Mike Hendrickson (Best of Worcester nominee) and sound design by John Tonelli. Last chance to vote for us as Worcester’s Best Radio Personalities! Click...
2019-03-291h 11Pop ItProvisions (ft. Alexis Kelleher & Nate Rossi)We’re on site at North Main Provisions with owners Alexis Kelleher and Nate Rossi—the duo responsible for Crust Bakeshop. Alexis grew up working at Worcester’s most iconic eatery, Coney Island, alongside her mother and great-grandmother. Nate was the sous-chef at Armsby Abbey before joining Alexis at Crust and helping her launch North Main Provisions. For the record, this crew is pro-Jenny from the block and anti-Foodgod. We believe good wine is for drinking. John Tonelli and Mike Hendrickson are on hand for sound and snaps, respectively.
2019-03-2050 minPop ItPhoto Vibing (ft. Joseph Gonzalez-Dufresne)We’re on site at the Ivy Corset Building with photographer Joe Gonzalez-Dufresne. As an expert third wheel for engaged couples or newlyweds and a wild visionary on commercial shoots, Joe has become one of the most sought-after creatives in Worcester. His signature storytelling style is noted for its sense of natural movement and energy. Photos by our old friend Unity Mike Hendrickson and sound production by our new friend John Tonelli.
2019-03-1338 minPop ItUndefeated (ft. Senator Harriette L. Chandler)We’re on site at City Hall with the 94th President of the Massachusetts Senate, Harriette L. Chandler, in the room where she got her political start as a member of the Worcester School Committee in 1991. Chandler went on to become the second woman in Massachusetts history to serve as Majority Leader and also as Senate President. At age 81, she has never lost an election. We discuss the ROE Act as well as her transition from SP, which she says was not at all like Joan Vennochi described it in the Boston Globe last year when she wrote, “Men might...
2019-03-0644 minPop ItQueer AF (ft. Joslyn Fox aka Patrick Joslyn & Josh Croke)We’re on site at Bull Mansion with Joslyn Fox aka Patrick Joslyn from season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Joshua Croke of Action! by Design and Love Your Labels—organizations dedicated to making us feel unique and united in our own skin. Josh and Patrick are integral participants in the Queer AF: Art & Fashion Show set to take place on March 1st under the watchful eye of Project Runway designer Sam Donovan. Patrick discusses The Sole Proprietor's warm embrace of his time on reality TV as well as his brushes with Neil Patrick Harris, Khloe Kardashian, Eve, and Ja...
2019-02-2742 minPop ItDon't Worry Be Hoppy (ft. Katrina Shabo)(Forgive us, we're still dialing in our brewery acoustics.) This week, we recorded at Wormtown Brewery with Director of Marketing Katrina Shabo. We asked Katrina what she thought about the extraordinarily misogynistic article that blew up our beer news feeds this week, written by Brewing News publisher and co-founder Bill Metzger. Did you know, according to the Craft Brewers Association, 31.5% of craft beer drinkers in 2018 were women? We also discuss Per Se's written appeal, Jennifer Aniston's 50th birthday party, and Ryan Adams' lethal Napoleon complex. (Height confirmed at 5'8".) Tunes by Submarine Machine.
2019-02-2036 minPop ItHappy Galentine's Day (ft. Linda Cavaioli)This week, we join Executive Director Linda Cavaioli at YWCA Central Massachusetts, a safe place for women and girls in the community. The YWCA builds strong female leaders who fight for gender equality and civil rights. Linda loves social justice, sunlight, and The Beatles. We also celebrate the merits of Trash-terlist, a newsletter born out of Beacon Hill's insatiable thirst for pop culture. Email sloalihart@gmail.com to subscribe. It's Galentine's Day! Another round of waffles for the ladies.
2019-02-1343 min
Pop ItDrinking Like Ladies (ft. Kirsten Amann)Author of Drinking Like Ladies, Kirsten Amann, joins us for an interview during her book signing at simjang. Kirsten opted to donate her proceeds from the evening to Girls Inc., a local organization that equips girls to navigate gender, economic and social barriers and grow into healthy, educated and independent women. Heidi Paluk, Sr. Director of Advancement and External Relations gave us the rundown on Girls Inc. We also heard from Sarah Lee of simjang, Erin Jansky and Casey Clancey of the Young Professional Women's Association, and Derek Grimm of the Bartenders Guild. We open with a chat about cam...
2019-02-0646 minPop ItLifestyle Influencers (ft. @Eats2Know & @thehalffullmug)We’re on site at The AC Hotel with Talin Avakian of @thehalffullmug and Dana Harrison of @Eats2Know. Talin and Dana have amassed impressive instagram followings based on their personal lifestyle brands. We ask about authenticity, setting limits, and food photography. We end the episode with a chat about Chris Brown, Oscar nominations, and Title IX. Photos by Unity Mike Hendrickson. In and out music by Submarine Machine.
2019-01-3055 min