Shows
VPM Daily Newscast5/19/25 - Murders highlight Chesterfield's need for an IPV shelterThis story contains references to intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence.
Today’s episode accompanies an article that first published on May 13.
VPM News is also asking our audience, "How are federal immigration policies affecting Virginians?"
Visit vpm.org/inmigracion for more information. (We’re also asking en YouTube and Instagram!)
2025-05-1905 minVPM Daily Newscast5/14/25 - Richmond City Council fires IG James OsunaRichmond's inspector general, who is appointed by the council, had been in the position since 2019.
Did you know VPM News is posting video shorts about Central Virginia news? Check out Tuesday's episode, which may sound familiar: "Where did German School Road get its name?"
You can find VPM News Shorts on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!2025-05-1404 min
The Virginia Press RoomIntra-Party Chaos, Fraud Accusations, and Americorps Funding CutsIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Kate Seltzer of the Virginian-Pilot, covering the ousting of Laura Hughes, former chairwoman for the Virginia Beach Republican Party.
Greg Schneider of the Washington Post, covering accusations of fraud between the Youngkin administration and the Nansemond Indian Tribe over healthcare funding.
Dean Mirshahi of VPM News, covering how federal Americorps funding cuts have impacted Virginia volunteerism.
Plus: award-winning hurricane coverage, Confederate statue removal, and some history of the Richmond Flying Squirrels.
2025-05-1237 minVPM Daily Newscast5/08/25 — What the dissolution of VCU’s DEI office means for former staffVPM higher education reporter Megan Pauly speaks to former staff members of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Division of Inclusive Excellence.
In the podcast: VPM News reporter Megan Pauly speaks to former staff of VCU’s shuttered diversity office.
2025-05-0809 minThe Virginia Press RoomICE Raid, Right-to-Work, and Trouble in PurcellvilleIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Hanna Pampaloni of Loudoun Now, covering the scandal surrounding a state police investigation of Purcellville's Vice Mayor.
Luke Weir of the Roanoke Times, covering the Democratic debate for Lieutenant Governor, where all candidates voice support for ending Right-to-Work.
Sean McGoey of VPM, covering the confusing facts and questions surrounding Tavares Floyd's campaign for Richmond City Council.
Plus an ICE raid in an Albemarle County courthouse, campaign finance oversight, and upcoming budget deadlines for localities around the state.2025-04-2835 minThe Virginia Press RoomCoal Emissions, Public Housing, and High School ReshufflingIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:James Libresco of Theogony, covering the difficulties around Alexandria's City High School's four-campus system--and the school district's new policy mandating Theogony's articles be approved by administration.Charles Paullin of Inside Climate News, covering President Trump's exemptions for coal emissions, including Dominion Energy.Whittney Evans of VPM, covering the failed attempt to privatize Gilpin Court, Richmond's largest public housing complex.Plus struggles to clean up the Chesapeake Bay, a staffing shortage at Virginia's only youth...2025-04-2142 minVPM Daily Newscast4/17/26: Curious Commonwealth answers more recycling questions!VPM News editor Whittney Evans digs in to answer this Curious Commonwealth: What does the data tell us about how much Virginia recycles?Submit your own question at vpm.org/curious. VPM's Spring 2025 membership campaign ends on April 18. Right now, several challenges are ongoing that can double your support of our mission. Click or tap here to learn more. 2025-04-1709 minThe Virginia Press RoomBudget Dispute, Filing Deadlines, and the Virginia Supreme CourtIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Kate Seltzer of the Virginian-Pilot, covering the latest on the filings for the fall ballot.Joe Dodson of Courthouse News, covering a Virginia Supreme Court ruling an officer not liable for the attempted suicide of a detainee.Jahd Khalil of VPM, covering Virginia's budget and the dispute over the Earned Income Tax Credit.Plus speeches in the General Assembly, judicial controversy, and Virginia's relationship with native tribes in the state.2025-04-0738 minVPM Daily Newscast4/2/2025 - What happened to the school German School Road is named for?Curious Commonwealth is a VPM News series that explores audience questions about Virginia — its quirks, its policies and its communities.Today, Phil Liles interviews Billy Shields about how his reporting answered the question, "What happened to the German school that led to German School Road?" A VPM News audience member who works in the area asked about the Southside Richmond landmark's history.Submit your own Curious Commonwealth ask on our website.2025-04-0205 minThe Virginia Press RoomUnemployment Claims, Health Department Cuts, and Record-Setting Veto NumbersIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Karri Peifer of Axios, covering the rising number of unemployment claims in Virginia.Cameron Thompson of WTVR, covering Governor Youngkin's record-setting number of vetoes pushed through last week (and VPAP has visualized the numbers)Chris Suarez of VPM, covering $425 million cut to the Virginia Department of Health as the federal government pulls grant funding for COVID-related programs.Plus 23andMe goes bankrupt, pop-up wrestling matches, and Virginia's state songs....2025-03-3135 minVPM Daily Newscast3/31/25 - Dr. Norman Oliver, former state health commissioner, on VDH funding cutsLater this week, VPM News will be publishing the full transcript of our conversation with Dr. Norman Oliver. You can read that and more about VDH funding cuts at vpm.org.2025-03-3109 minThe Virginia Press RoomEducation Cuts, Unemployment Claims, and Signature SubmissionsIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Whittney Evans of VPM News, covering how cuts to the federal Department of Education will impact Virginia's students.Tyler Englander of WRIC, covering rising unemployment claims in Virginia as President Trump cuts the federal workforce.Brad Kutner of Radio IQ, covering the signature submissions for Virginia's statewide candidate to appear on ballots.Plus counterintuitive history, Virginia's voter purge lawsuit, and tonight's deadline for the Governor to sign, amend, and veto the bills from the Ge...2025-03-2437 minThe Virginia Press RoomLibrary Funding, GreenCity Development, and the Governor's PardonIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Olivia Diaz of the Associated Press, covering Governor Youngkin's pardon of a former police officer convicted of reckless firearm use.Greg Schneider of the Washington Post, covering Warren County stripping funding for Samuels Public Library.Lyndon German of VPM News, covering the stalling of Henrico County's GreenCity development.Plus executive orders on ICE, uncertainty in state and local budgets, and the political dynamics and familiar names as the campaigns for Governor ramps up....2025-03-1033 minThe Virginia Press RoomCompetitive House Races, Voting Rights Restoration, and the Republican Primary for GovernorIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Anna Bryson of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, covering Amanda Chase and Dave LaRock's entry into the Republican primary race for Governor.Brandon Jarvis of Virginia Scope, covering three competitive state House races--Republican seats that Kamala Harris won last year.Dean Mirshahi of VPM, covering the drop in the number of people whose voting rights are being restored by the Governor.Plus, the race to replace Susan Swecker as chair of the state Democratic party, sign-in...2025-03-0331 min
RVA’s Got IssuesWho's Your... Momnibus?What's 45 days long, based in Richmond, and shapes the future of the state of Virginia? On this episode, Rich unpacks this year's General Assembly with veteran state politics reporter Michael Pope.A big question EVERYONE is wrestling with is how to prepare for the changes coming out of Washington. Separately, Democrats are headed towards yet another veto showdown with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. But there are glimmers of bipartisanship, and it's called... a Momnibus? That, and more, in this end-of-session recap on what passed, what didn't, and the politics shaping it all.We're also shining our...2025-02-2629 minThe Virginia Press RoomStalled FOIA Reform, Federal Worker Anxiety, and A Visual DispatchIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Charlotte Rene Woods of the Virginia Mercury, covering the last-minute stalling of a FOIA reform bill.Shaban Athuman of VPM, showcasing a visual dispatch from the 2025 General Assembly.Elizabeth Beyer of Cardinal News, covering Governor Youngkin's acknowledgement of the anxiety among federal workers in Virginia.Plus a surprising seat opening, veto-watch, and health care uncertainty amid sweeping federal changes.--The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podca...2025-02-2433 minThe Virginia Press RoomSales Tax Surcharge, Residency Issues, and the Latest Casino Bill In this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:Dave Ress of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, covering bills to establish a legal cannabis market and to impose a sales tax surcharge to pay for schools.Rich Meagher, political science professor at Randolph-Macon College and the host of VPM's "VA's Got Issues," following Natalie Anderson's reporting on the residency of Senator Christie New Craig.Nathaniel Cline of the Virginia Mercury, covering the controversial tabling of the latest casino bill.Plus the key role of interns in V...2025-02-1730 minThe Virginia Press RoomFree Clinics, Immigration Enforcement, and Animal Rights In this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Keyris Manzanares of VPM News, covering Richmond Public Schools' official resolution on immigration enforcement on school grounds.
Kate Seltzer of the Virginian-Pilot, covering Virginia's free clinics and the possibility of cuts to federal Medicaid funding.
Joe Dodson of Courthouse News, covering a bill to reduce penalties for people with developmental disorders who assault police officers.
Plus FOIA fees, animal-rights bills, and the future of Virginia's detention centers. --The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podcast...2025-02-1029 minThe Virginia Press RoomChild Care Subsidies, Offshore Wind, and the 2025 Race for Governor In this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Olivia Diaz of the Associated Press, covering how the upcoming election is affecting the current General Assembly session.
Megan Pauly of VPM News, covering the waitlist for Virginia's child care subsidy program.
Brad Kutner, Richmond Bureau Chief for Radio IQ, who discusses the tension around the Trump administration and Virginia's planned offshore wind farm.
Plus looking ahead to Crossover, a child-care stipend for lawmakers, and long lines for the elevators in the General Assembly building....2025-02-0343 minThe Virginia Press RoomSchool Choice, Sourcing Stories, and What President Trump Means for Virginia In this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Elizabeth Beyer of Cardinal News, with the potential consequences for Virginians if the federal government rescinds Medicaid expansion
Tyler Englander of WRIC, covering the Republican push for school choice in the legislature
Jahd Khalil of VPM News, who talks about Governor Youngkin's reaction to President Trump's actions on federal workers
Plus the optics game in the General Assembly and following up on last year's voter roll purge.--The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podcast that brings listeners the latest insights and analysis on Virginia’s most important s...2025-01-2742 minVPM Daily Newscast1/27/25 - Inside the UVA School of Medicine team exploring past livesFor more than 50 years, a small division in the University of Virginia’s School of Medicine has explored topics ranging from the possibility of telepathy to reincarnation. WHRO's Nick McNamara visited the team to learn more.VPM News needs your help: What do you want us to cover this General Assembly session? Visit VPM.org/thepeople to submit your ideas.2025-01-2706 minVPM Daily Newscast1/21/25 – State commission approves bill inspired by VPM podcastThe State Crime Commission has endorsed a piece of legislation relating to Virginia’s former chief serologist, whose work at the state crime lab was scrutinized with the VPM podcast Admissible: Shreds of Evidence. In other news: Virginia’s vehicle inspection stickers are changing, Chesterfield County has a new superintendent and Albemarle County has a website for permit applications now. You can listen to Admissible wherever you get your podcasts. Today’s top audio stories include the latest on Mary Jane Burton’s legacy, the federal government’s settlement wit...2025-01-2105 minThe Virginia Press RoomConstitutional Amendments, Data Center Regulation, and the State of the CommonwealthIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Charlotte Rene Woods of Virginia Mercury, with the latest on the proposed amendments to Virginia's Constitution
Cameron Thompson of WTVR, covering Governor Youngkin's State of the Commonwealth address
Patrick Larsen of VPM News, who talks about the latest efforts to regulate data centers in the state
Plus the fallout from Richmond's water crisis, invasive species legislation, and the future of maternal health in the state.--The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podcast that brings listeners the late...2025-01-2047 minThe Virginia Press RoomRichmond Water Crisis, Race for Governor, and a Death in PrisonIn this episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Anna Bryson of the Richmond Times-Dispatch with the latest on Richmond's water crisis
Michael O’Connor of the Virginia Dogwood, who talks about the latest poll for the 2025 Governor's race
Dave Cantor of VPM News, who talks about the death of a man incarcerated at Red Onion prison in December
Plus Virginia's proposed abortion amendment, the latest on the car tax, the cultural history of water pumps in Richmond.--The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podcast...2025-01-1328 minVPM Daily Newscast1/10/25 - Water testing underway in RichmondRichmond Mayor Danny Avula says January’s water bill is going to account for the water outage; small businessowners and workers impacted by the lack of water speak out; and more Central Virginia news. Keep up with the latest information on Greater Richmond's outages at vpm.org/richmond. Do you have questions or updates? Get in touch with us at tips@vpm.org, @vpm.org on Bluesky or u/vpmnews on Reddit. 2025-01-1006 minVPM Daily Newscast1/9/25 - Greater Richmond’s water outage continuesToday's top audio stories are mostly about the continuing water outages and boil advisories in Central Virginia.Keep up with the latest information on Greater Richmond's outages at vpm.org/richmond.Do you have questions or updates? Get in touch with us at tips@vpm.org, @vpm.org on Bluesky or u/vpmnews on Reddit.2025-01-0907 minThe Virginia Press RoomRed Onion Prison, Hampton Roads Investment, and Riggleman's Potential RunIn this inaugural episode of The Virginia Press Room, Michael Pope is joined by:
Laura Vozzella of The Washington Post, who talks about Denver Riggleman's potential run for statewide office
Jahd Khalil of VPM News, who talks about Del. Michael Jones' (D-Richmond) unannounced visit to the Red Onion prison
Markus Schmidt of Virginia Mercury, who talks about Hampton Roads Ventures' lack of investments in local projects
Plus:
Rep. John McGuire's publicized visit to President-elect Trump's Mar-a-Lago
Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger will both be guest speakers at the upcoming Virginia Capitol Correspondents' Associ...2025-01-0629 minVPM Daily Newscast12/30/24 - Why doesn’t Richmond require protected pedestrian access during construction?In today’s special episode... it's a Curious Commonwealth!Editor Whittney Evans explores a question the team received that happened to be about the new headquarters VPM is building in Richmond's historic Monroe Ward neighborhood.We’ll be back with another special newscast on Friday, Jan. 3.A note: VPM Media Corporation does hold the FCC license for VPM News. This Curious Commonwealth went through the normal editorial process, which means station leadership did not read or hear this piece before we published and aired it.**PS: Submit your Curious Commonwealth questions to u...2024-12-3008 minVPM Daily Newscast11/5/2024 - It’s Election Day! Polls are open starting at 6 a.m., and will be open until 7 p.m.And tonight, you can listen to VPM's live coverage of the election starting at 7 p.m. You can find our local coverage on VPM PBS, 88.9 FM in Richmond, 89.1 FM in the Northern Neck, 90.1 FM in Southside Virginia and online at VPM.org. 2024-11-0508 minVPM Daily Newscast11/4/24 - Virginia Republicans rallied with Donald Trump in Salem over the weekendAlso: A little more about the constitutional amendment on Tuesday’s ballots, a reminder for college students who wish to vote on Election Day, a fresh spotlight on the 5th Congressional District debate between John McGuire and Gloria Witt — and a look at the 6th Congressional District race from Democrat Ken Mitchell’s camp. Tomorrow night, you can listen to VPM's live coverage of the election starting at 7 p.m. You can find our local coverage on VPM PBS, 88.9 FM in Richmond, 89.1 FM in the Northern Neck, 90.1 FM in Southside Virginia and online at VPM.org. 2024-11-0410 minVPM Daily NewscastRuling expected Friday in federal voter purge caseRichmond is forwarding info on City Council candidate Tavares Floyd to the state inspector general; some Central Virginia early voting locations will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; the Virginia State Crime Commission recommends further, in-depth review of serologist Mary Jane Burton's work — initially reported in the VPM and Story Mechanics podcast Admissible: Shreds of Evidence.Oct. 10–25 is fall pledge season at VPM! Our award-winning work is made possible with your support. Visit vpm.org/donate or vpm.org/challenges for more information.2024-10-2507 minVPM Daily Newscast10/24/24 - Department of Forensic Science says it missed 3 cases in 2005 reviewPlus: UVA Health has resumed elective procedures at three of its locations, the University of Virginia is going to review its actions during the pro-Palestine encampment and Harrisonburg’s city council has three open seats this election. Oct. 10–25 is fall pledge season at VPM! Our award-winning work is made possible with your support. Visit vpm.org/donate or vpm.org/challenges for more information.2024-10-2405 minVPM Daily Newscast10/22/24 - Tavares Floyd’s past as a lawyer is uncertainAlso: Charlottesville and the Salvation Army are collaborating on a new, low-barrier shelter; more Latino and English language-learning students are graduating in Richmond — and more Central Virginia news. Oct. 10–25 is fall pledge season at VPM! Our award-winning work is made possible with your support. Visit vpm.org/donate or vpm.org/challenges for more information.2024-10-2205 minVPM Daily Newscast10/21/24 - It’s flu vaccine season!Plus: A Richmond City Council candidate has not yet responded to reporting about his campaign finance records, the retiring University of Virginia basketball coach who led the Cavaliers to the 2019 national championship blames the state of college athletics for his departure — and more Central Virginia news.Oct. 10–25 is fall pledge season at VPM! Our award-winning work is made possible with your support. Visit vpm.org/donate or vpm.org/challenges for more information.2024-10-2107 minVPM Daily NewscastWill Virginia outlaw child marriage?; Curious Commonwealth presents: Three Chopt RoadWill Virginia outlaw child marriage? VPM News reporter Jahd Khalil has followed legislation that would raise the legal marriage age to 18, if approved by Gov. Glenn Youngkin; Curious Commonwealth presents: Three Chopt Road. VPM News' transportation reporter Ian Stewart went exploring to find out why the road crisscrosses the highway.2024-04-0109 minVPM Daily Newscast02/12/24 - Dating While Gray's Laura Stassi chats with VPM's Morning Edition host Phil LilesDating While Gray's Laura Stassi chats with VPM's Morning Edition host Phil Liles.2024-02-1205 minVPM Daily NewscastHappy New Year's Eve! Have another special VPM Daily NewscastThis fall 2023 special series of reports dives into how Richmond's neighborhoods promote — or hinder — residents' well-being.In Part 2, we explore the city's community spaces and gardens, the effects of rising property values on Black homeownership and how COVID-19 impacted mortality rates for pregnant people of color.Healthy City was written by VPM News and VPM News Focal Point. It was edited by Whittney Evans and Connor Scribner.Shaban Athuman did the series and drone photography. Additional editing was done by Dave Cantor, Meghin Moore, Megan Pauly and Dawnthea M. Price Lisco.To e...2023-12-3121 minVPM Daily NewscastHappy New Year's Eve... eve! Have a special edition of the Daily NewscastThis fall 2023 special series of reports dives into how Richmond's neighborhoods promote — or hinder — residents' well-being.In Part 1, we explore Richmond's public transportation, repairing its divided communities, Southside's economic development and challenges for Black business owners.Healthy City was written by VPM News and VPM News Focal Point. It was edited by Whittney Evans and Connor Scribner.Shaban Athuman did the series and drone photography. Additional editing was done by Dave Cantor, Meghin Moore, Megan Pauly and Dawnthea M. Price Lisco.To explore more Healthy City, visit vpm.org/healthy.2023-12-3117 minVPM Daily Newscast12/04/23 - Local Richmond businesses are less likely to be owned by Black residentsEditor's note: An earlier version of this episode didn't include all the bells and whistles. Sorry about that!Local businesses benefit the neighborhoods they’re in — serving residents’ specific needs and acting as local landmarks.But in Richmond, local businesses are less likely to be owned by Black residents. As part of VPM News Healthy City series, Connor Scribner reports on challenges facing entrepreneurs. For more Healthy City stories, go to vpm.org/healthy.2023-12-0405 minVPM Daily Newscast10/16/23 - How Veronica O. Davis wants to repair torn communitiesCivil engineer Veronica O. Davis recently released a book called Inclusive Transportation: A Manifesto for Repairing Divided Communities.”Those divisions are largely through Black and brown communities, which were carved up when the federal government built the interstate highway system in the 1950s; the same way I-95 carved up Richmond’s Jackson Ward.Davis recently spoke with VPM News transportation reporter Ian Stewart about her connection to transportation as part of VPM News Healthy City.2023-10-1605 minVPM Daily Newscast10/13/23 - Crime lab director digging into allegations uncovered by VPM podcastThe Virginia crime lab’s director says she’s looking into allegations of misconduct there beginning in the 1970s. The lab’s actions follow the release of the VPM podcast Admissible: Shreds of Evidence. 2023-10-1309 minVPM Daily Newscast04/18/23 - Inside the 'mind-blowing' pattern of unchecked, faulty fire alarms at Richmond schoolsVPM News reporters Megan Pauly and Connor Scribner speak with VPM Editor Whittney Evans about their investigation into the fire at Fox Elementary last year; A Virginia corrections officer accused of choking an incarcerated person was promoted last year; The City of Petersburg is mourning the loss of Richard Stewart; and other local news stories.2023-04-1812 minVPM Daily Newscast03/27/23 - How Richmond responds to gun violence in schoolsA vigil was held last week for Richmond middle school student Marquan Mitchell-Nash, who was fatally shot earlier this month while handling a firearm. Seventeen students have been shot so far this school year according to the district’s unofficial count. That includes students who were injured, as well as those killed. Given these staggering figures, we’re airing an excerpt from a conversation that VPM News education reporter Megan Pauly had with Richmond Public School’s Angela Jones last summer. Jones is the director of culture, climate and student services. She spoke about how the district responds to these event...2023-03-2705 minVPM Daily NewscastSpecial Edition of VPM Daily Newscast: How one Virginia city reckons with gun violenceOver the past four months, VPM News reporters have explored ways Virginians are trying to curb the devastating effects of gun violence in our communities and how survivors and their families are learning to heal. This edition of the VPM Daily Newscast includes all of the stories from our special series “Another Way: How one Virginia city reckons with gun violence,” hosted by Sara McCloskey. To read more about this coverage head to VPM.org/gun-violence.2022-10-0120 minVPM Daily Newscast09/26/22 - "Another Way" Special Series Part 1: Audio Diary on Samiyah YellardyThis week, VPM News is exploring ways Virginians are trying to curb the devastating effects of gun violence in our communities and how they’re learning to heal. Our special series, “Another Way,” starts with the story of a 17-year-old student from Richmond’s George Wythe High School. Samiyah Yellardy was shot and killed in her own home in April. VPM News reporter Megan Pauly spoke with her mother, who reflects on her daughter’s life, loss and hopes for the future. 2022-09-2606 minVPM Daily Newscast07/25/22 - Branch Museum's Re(Framing) exhibit uses photography to portray positivity in wake of protestsLast Month, Richmond’s Branch Museum unveiled its Re(Framing) protest exhibit, which takes a look at the positive community outcomes that resulted from the racial justice protests in the summer of 2020 through the photography of Regina Boone and Sandra Sellars. VPM News intern Davis spoke with both of them recently.2022-07-2505 minVPM Daily Newscast07/18/22 - Politifact Virginia: Youngkin "Mostly False" on same-sex marriage protections in the commonwealthGovernor Glenn Youngkin caused a stir with some comments he recently made on NBC’s “Meet the Press” about same-sex marriage laws in Virginia. Politifact Virginia Editor Warren Fiske spoke with VPM News Legal Reporter Whittney Evans about the comments.2022-07-1805 minVPM Daily Newscast07/11/22 - Local health official says it’s difficult to determine whether COVID-19 has become endemicCOVID-19 has been impacting people across the world for three summers. So, at what point will we call it an endemic — instead of a pandemic? VPM News Morning Edition Host Phil Liles spoke with Chtaura Jackson, an epidemiologist with the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts about where we are now with COVID-19. 2022-07-1105 minVPM Daily Newscast07/04/22 - Hill of Heroes on display through end of weekIf you drive by the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, you’ll see 12,000 small American flags lining the property. The display is called the “Hill of Heroes,” and it honors the lives of members of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country. The installation will be available for public viewings until July 8. VPM News Morning Edition Host Phil Liles spoke with Dr. Clay Mountcastle, the director of the Virginia War Memorial, about how the project got started.2022-07-0405 minVPM Daily Newscast06/27/22 - The history of abortion in VirginiaIn light of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade last week, we are revisiting a conversation VPM News reporter Megan Pauly had with Daniel Williams, a professor at the University of West Georgia. They spoke about what the abortion debate has historically looked like in Virginia. Williams is the author of two books: God’s Own Party: The Making of the Christian Right – and Defenders of the Unborn: The Pro-Life Movement before Roe v. Wade. 2022-06-2706 minVPM Daily Newscast05/24/2022 State Budget UpdateLawmakers are heading back to Richmond next week. The clerk of the state Senate told VPM News that they’re set to take up a new two-year budget on June 1st.; Several Democratic lawmakers from the Richmond area want Gov. Youngkin to hold off on implementing his new telework policy until after Labor Day; Employees at a Newport News Starbucks say they’ve become the first unionized location in Hampton Roads; and other local news stories2022-05-2408 minVPM Daily Newscast05/23/22 - The history of abortion in VirginiaThe issue of abortion wasn’t always as politically polarizing as it is today. VPM News reporter Megan Pauly spoke with University of West Georgia professor Daniel Williams about what the abortion debate has historically looked like in Virginia. Williams is the author of two books: God’s Own Party: The Making of the Christian Right – and Defenders of the Unborn: The Pro-Life Movement before Roe v. Wade.2022-05-2306 minVPM Daily Newscast05/16/22 - How can Virginia gardeners attract pollinators?VPM’s Morning Edition Host Phil Liles spoke with entomologist and host of “What’s Buggin’ You?,” Dr. Art Evans, to find out what pollinators are native to Virginia – and what we can do to attract them in our gardens. 2022-05-1605 minVPM Daily Newscast05/02/22 - This week is Children's Mental Health WeekThis week starts an awareness week for children’s mental health. To share insights on ways adults can help children who are struggling -- VPM News Morning Edition anchor Phil Liles spoke with Dr. Karen Kochel, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Richmond. 2022-05-0205 minVPM Daily Newscast04/08/22 - Public records show internal conflicts with Richmond school construction auditA VPM News public records request shows a Richmond city official attempted to get an independent city auditor to update an audit on school construction costs over a year after it was published; Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a new executive order yesterday recognizing the value of recycling and waste reduction in Virginia; Fairfax County’s top prosecutor has launched a new program that aims to provide people accused of nonviolent crimes with programs and services instead of a criminal record; and other local news stories.2022-04-0806 min
Seizing FreedomIntroducing Season 2 of Seizing FreedomComing February 1, 2022.The promises of Reconstruction were left unfulfilled. The violent system of Jim Crow was being built in real time, brick by brick. And Black people had vibrant debates about how to make a way out of no way; about the best strategy for life after emancipation and Reconstruction; to continue to achieve their ancestors’ dreams.Voice actors will use letters, diaries, newspapers, and autobiographies to bring you stories from luminaries like Ida B. Wells-Barnett and W.E.B. DuBois, as well as everyday freedom fighters forging their own paths forward.Dr. Ki...2022-01-2504 minVPM Daily Newscast01/07/22 - A reporter goes in search of a COVID testVPM’s Whittney Evans chronicled her search to get a COVID test earlier this week; Nine new community testing centers are opening across the state to increase availability; Crews began treating major roadways overnight, as another winter storm hits parts of the commonwealth; and other local news stories.2022-01-0706 minVPM Daily Newscast11/19/21 - State candidates report racism, sexism on campaign trailIn a multiple week-long investigation, several candidates in the recent statewide elections told VPM News they experienced both overt and subtle racism, sexism, and Islamophobia while campaigning this year; Jury deliberations will begin today in the trial against white nationalists who planned the Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville; Some voters in Chesterfield County woke up yesterday in a soon-to-be new district. That’s because the Board of Supervisors approved a new magisterial map; and other local news stories.2021-11-1906 minVPM Daily NewscastVPM Daily Newscast Special Edition - Dreams Deferred Pt. 4Over the past year, VPM News has been looking into a hidden type of debt affecting thousands of Virginia college students. It’s not federal student loans – which dominates most of the headlines. It’s money owed directly to institutions -- called direct-to-school debt. In our series Dreams Deferred - we’ve been exploring how this debt is creating hardships for students… making it difficult for them to complete their degrees and advance their careers. Today we dive into one approach that a Michigan college is taking to help get students back on track.2021-11-1208 minVPM Daily NewscastVPM Daily Newscast Special Edition - Dreams Deferred Pt. 3Over the past year, VPM News has been looking into a hidden type of debt affecting thousands of Virginia college students. It’s not federal student loans – which dominates most of the headlines. It’s money owed directly to institutions -- called direct-to-school debt. In our series Dreams Deferred, we’re exploring how this debt is creating hardships for students - making it difficult for them to complete their degrees and advance their careers. Today we unpack university policies and practices that create and perpetuate this problem by focusing on one school, Virginia Commonwealth University.2021-11-1108 minVPM Daily NewscastVPM Daily Newscast Special Edition - Dreams Deferred Pt. 2Over the past year, VPM News has been looking into a hidden type of debt affecting thousands of Virginia college students. It’s not federal student loans – which dominates most of the headlines. It’s money owed directly to institutions -- called direct-to-school debt. In our series Dreams Deferred, we’re exploring how this debt is creating hardships for students - making it difficult for them to complete their degrees and advance their careers. Today we’re exploring state policies that create and perpetuate this problem.2021-11-1008 minVPM Daily NewscastVPM Daily Newscast Special Edition - Dreams Deferred Pt. 1Over the past year, VPM News has been looking into a hidden type of debt affecting thousands of Virginia college students. It’s not federal student loans – which dominates most of the headlines. It’s money owed directly to institutions -- called direct-to-school debt. In our series Dreams Deferred, we’ll explore how this debt is creating hardships for students… making it difficult for them to complete their degrees and advance their careers. We’ll address the school and state policies that create and perpetuate this problem. And we’ll look at what some colleges are doing to help students...2021-11-0908 minVPM Daily Newscast10/13/21 - Racial disparities show up in Virginia’s pandemic grant programA VPM investigation reveals racial disparities in distribution of COVID relief grants, President Obama to stump for Former Gov. McAuliffe, and a candidate running to represent Chesapeake in the House of Delegates was arrested. 2021-10-1305 min
Seizing FreedomA Heritage Unique In The AgesSeason finale. The "freedom generation" of African Americans who were the first to experience emancipation knew that their fight for freedom was only just beginning. Even as they were earning new rights and privileges, they continued to face pushback that jeopardized all they had fought for and earned. Hear how they planned for the future, even as the present structures around them were being torn down.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-05-1758 min
Seizing FreedomInterview: Kate MasurA discussion of the central role African Americans played in securing constitutional change for their civil and political rights during Reconstruction, as well as the long-lasting impacts of their efforts in the first civil rights movement. Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-05-1049 min
Seizing FreedomThe Final Word On LibertyThe 13th Amendment abolished slavery in 1865, but African Americans knew the “freedom” of emancipation was incomplete without universal citizenship and rights protected by law. Learn how their insistence on having a full stake in American freedom helped transform federal policy and codify the rhetoric of “liberty” into law.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-05-0356 min
Seizing FreedomInterview: Kelly Brown DouglasThe Reverend shares what church has meant to the Black community, both historically and currently, as well as how to find God in times of struggle and injustice.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-04-2644 min
Seizing FreedomEqual Children Of GodHow a thirst for soul liberty and the freedom to worship as they saw fit sustained Black Americans through centuries of enslavement. And how the sustenance they found in religious community emboldened them to fight for—and demand—concrete social and political change. Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-04-191h 07
Seizing FreedomInterview: Hilary GreenConversation about family histories and education, how many of the stereotypes that have been associated with Black people in the United States came to be, why they’re simply not true, and what the pursuit of knowledge meant and looked like to African Americans during and after Reconstruction.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-04-1252 min
Seizing FreedomTruth Makes The Free ManEducation was regarded as the "real liberation" by many African Americans following emancipation from slavery, and they were willing to go to extreme lengths to secure literacy for themselves and their kin.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-04-051h 04
Seizing FreedomInterview: Tera HunterKidada speaks with Princeton Historian Tera Hunter about how Black workers wanted to shape their working lives after the Civil War, what communal labor looked like, and what activities they found joy in.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-03-2939 min
Seizing FreedomThey Can't Keep Me OutFurther exploring the stakes of making a living as a Black person following emancipation and how, despite violent retaliation in light of their successes, African Americans never lost sight of what made Black life worth living. Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-03-221h 00
Seizing FreedomInterview: Rhiannon GiddensThe Grammy-winning musician discusses her connection to the banjo, its historical ties to Africa, and how she draws inspiration from the historical archives to create her songs.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-03-1544 min
Seizing FreedomA New Joy Awaiting MeHow newly emancipated African Americans established communities and expanded their labor on their own terms to build livelihoods for themselves and their families, and how they were met with extreme repercussions from whites through the introduction of Black Codes.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-03-0859 min
Seizing FreedomInterview: Deborah WillisPhotography professor Deborah Willis speaks with Kidada about the power of photography during the Civil War era, and the stories images can reveal to us about the lives Black people led and wanted future generations to understand.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-03-0134 min
Seizing FreedomReconstructing FamilyHow freed people sought out their kin following emancipation, and how they worked to establish new lives with their families, pushing for recognition in the eyes of the law.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-2257 min
Seizing FreedomInterview: Abigail CooperConversation with Abigail Cooper about the communities that Black people established in Civil War refugee camps, how they celebrated their African traditions and how they had to adapt to survive in the American patriarchy.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-1533 min
Seizing FreedomA Bedrock For FreedomHow freedom wasn't as clear-cut as wartime refugees from slavery expected, and how— despite terrible conditions in many camps—Black people's desire for self-determination kept them going.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0852 min
Seizing FreedomInterview: Crystal FeimsterInterview with historian Crystal Feimster about the importance of digging into archives and disrupting the myth that the Civil War and Reconstruction are histories that belong to white men.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0429 min
Seizing FreedomA Powerful Black HandHow Black men and women fought to participate in the war against slavery, and how the Union’s decision to allow them to enlist shifted the tide of the Civil War.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-011h 00
Seizing FreedomIntro: Time For A New StoryIf you’ve heard stories about Reconstruction, you’ve probably heard that it failed. And sure, some parts of Reconstruction did fail—but not because Black people didn’t claim their freedom.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0108 min
Seizing FreedomSpotlight: Ambrose HeadenFollow the incredible journey of Ambrose Headen, a man born into slavery who eventually played a pivotal role in founding one of the nation’s first Black colleges.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0109 min
Seizing FreedomSpotlight: Cyntha NickolsAfrican Americans had to go to extraordinary lengths in order to be reunited with their families after emancipation, including this grandmother’s struggle to gain custody of her grandson.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0111 min
Seizing FreedomSpotlight: Susie King TaylorA deeper look into the life of Susie King Taylor, who pursued her vision of freedom for herself, her family and for future generations.Support the show: http://donate.vpm.org/site/Donation2?1557.donation=form1&df_id=1557&mfc_pref=T2021-02-0112 min
Seizing FreedomSeizing Freedom: Official TrailerIn most history classes, you learn that the Emancipation Proclamation and Union victories “freed the slaves.” But ending slavery in America required so much more than battlefield victories or even official declarations. Black people battled for their own freedom, taking incredible risks for a country that had actively denied their right to it. After the Civil War, they made freedom real by organizing for equality and justice during Reconstruction. On Seizing Freedom, you’ll hear stories of freedom taking and freedom making directly from the people who did both. Using stories selected from diaries, newspape...2021-01-1802 min
ResettledBonus: Reclaiming the Refugee NarrativeIn this stripped down conversation, Ahmed Badr speaks with Dr. Chioke I’Anson of the VPM+ICA Community Media Center about the ethics of storytelling, the power of creative platforms, and techniques for community-engaged media.
They discuss how podcast producers can push back against the dominant singular, two-dimensional narratives around displacement, and instead share thoughtful and nuanced stories, all while informing the audience.
Guests include Justin Gandy of the International Rescue Committee, as well as Fatimah, whose story was featured in the Education episode of Resettled.2020-11-1200 min
Social Distance AssistanceIntroducing: ResettledWe're excited to share the first episode of VPM's new podcast, Resettled. In this six-part series, we showcase stories of refugees as they adjust to their new lives in Virginia. From navigating the healthcare system to graduating from high school, we share in the intimate moments of refugees' lives and explore the policies shaping their futures. Each episode explores a specific theme in their journeys upon arrival to Virginia. We hear about what it’s like to: perform on stage in a non-native language, overcome past trauma in a new country, and budget for a family with no credit hi...2020-07-0332 minResettledSneak Preview: EducationResettled is a new podcast from VPM that explores the process of refugee resettlement in Virginia through the voices of those directly experiencing it. This preview contains an excerpt from our upcoming episode about education. It focuses on the thriving community of refugees, asylees and immigrants living in Harrisonburg, Virginia, as well as the measures local schools like Harrisonburg High School have taken to ensure success for its resettled students.
Resettled launches on July 3. Visit vpm.org/resettled for more information about this series, as well as stories from refugees in our community.2020-06-1907 min
Social Distance AssistanceRevisited: Meet the Mask MakersUpdateWith the national conversation focused on police brutality and the Black Lives Matter movement, we're taking a break from new episodes this week. However, we did want to take this time to revisit and make some updates to our first episode, on the subject of masks, as so much has changed over the past 8 weeks.We'll also be back with a new episode on Tuesday, June 16 on how to safely and effectively speak out for social justice in the midst of a global pandemic.Original DescriptionWhy...2020-06-0925 min
Making MenuhinHiroki KasaiHe thought he was destined to be a dancer, but fell in love with the violin thanks to a fantastic teacher. Hiroki Kasai has another teacher to thank, though, for the most lasting impact on his approach to playing the violin - his current mentor, Rodney Friend, who encouraged him to use color to identify the notes he was playing.Hear him perform the Largo and Allegro Assai movements from JS Bach’s Violin Sonata Number 3 in C Major, and watch video of him sharing an update on his life since the competition was postponed on our web...2020-06-0523 min
Making MenuhinKayleigh KimShe's no stranger to the big occasion, having played the National Anthem in front of 40,000 fans and taken a master class with Hilary Hahn. Now, Virginia native Kayleigh Kim has her sights set on representing her home state in the Menuhin Competition when it arrives in Richmond next year.Hear her perform Georg Philipp Telemann’s Fantasia for Solo Violin no. 10 in D Major - also our theme music - and the Adagio movement from Bach’s Violin Sonata No. 1 in G Minor. The 16-year old is a National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellow, a member of th...2020-06-0319 min
Making MenuhinGuido Sant'Anna / Raphael NussbaumerIn 2018, Guido Sant'Anna became the first Brazilian to compete in the Menuhin Competition in more than 30 years. Now, the fan favorite from Geneva is set to return to the competition, and is hoping to bring additional awareness and interest in classical music to South America.Hear Guido perform Nightclub 1960 by Astor Piazolla and Beethoven's Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Major as part of the Menuhin Competition Geneva 2018, as well as the cadenza from Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major.-----At the age of 5, Raphael Nussbaumer managed to impress world-renowned violin teacher Ph...2020-06-0127 min
Making MenuhinShannon MaIn addition to playing the violin, Shannon Ma is also passionate about dance, filmmaking and writing. She shares the influences of dance on the musicality of her playing style, as well as excerpts from an essay she wrote on growing up Asian in America, with the goal of helping to break down stereotypes that exist about Asians in the music community.Hear her perform the prelude from Bach's Partita No. 3 in E Major and Kreisler's Marche Miniature Viennese.The 14-year old currently attends the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and is a junior competitor in...2020-05-2915 min
Making MenuhinKerson LeongOttawa native Kerson Leong won first prize in the junior division in the Menuhin Competition Oslo 2010, and has since become well-known as one of the world's best violinists. He shares how his father's experimentation helped him approach his music in a scientific manner, and how he used those concepts as the foundation for his playing.Since winning the competition, he has dedicated much of his time to educating other young violinists, even starting a YouTube channel, Art of Etude, where he shares tips and tools for advancing the art form.Hear him perform Estrellita by...2020-05-2717 min
Making MenuhinTianyu LiuHis parents knew his potential as a violinist at an early age, even making him stop playing basketball for fear of him damaging his fingers. Tianyu Liu has followed through on his parents' belief, and calls on the technical approach of his home country of China, the focus on musicality from his time in America and the emotion of his audiences to inform his playing style.Hear him perform the third movement from Bach’s Solo Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Minor and the first movement from Eugene Ysaye’s Solo Violin Sonata No. 4.The 21-yea...2020-05-2215 min
Making MenuhinKeila WakaoShe views the violin as a replica of the human voice, and dives into the tone and emotions with each performance. Massachusetts native Keila Wakao also draws on a deep emotional connection she's developed with her family through music, particularly with her father, who has performed with the Boston Symphony Orchestra for more than 30 years.Hear her perform Georg Philipp Telemann’s Fantasia for Solo Violin in B Minor.The 14-year old currently studies with Donald Weilerstein and Soovin Kim from the New England Conservatory of Music, and is a junior competitor in Menuhin Competition Ri...2020-05-2016 min
Making MenuhinMatthew HakkarainenHe picked up the instrument at age 3, and by 18 became the first American ever to win the prestigious Lipizer International Violin Competition. Matthew Hakkarainen credits his success to the support of his parents and teachers, as well as his exploration of art and literature, which he uses to inspire the feelings he conveys when playing his violin.Hear him perform the Adagio, Sicilienne and Presto movements from Bach’s Sonata Number 1 in G Minor.The 19-year old attends the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, PA, and is a senior competitor in Menuhin Competition Richmond 2021. Vi...2020-05-1519 min
Making MenuhinMaya Anjali BuchananShe learned to play on a Froot Loops box. Now, she's set to compete in "The Olympics of the Violin." Maya Anjali Buchanan shares how her rural upbringing in South Dakota, along with a hectic childhood travel schedule, helped transform her into one of the world's top young violinists.Hear her perform the Largo and Allegro Assai movements from Bach's Sonata No 3 in C Major for Solo Violin and Paganini's Caprice No. 5. The 20-year old attends the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, PA, and is a senior competitor in Menuhin Competition Richmond 2021. Visit vpm...2020-05-1317 minSocial Distance AssistanceUnmasked: Your Questions About Face CoveringsHow do you effectively make, wear and take care of a mask? What materials should you use? Should kids be wearing masks? Is it safe to ride a bike or walk your dog without one? How will our society treat mask wearers when we're allowed to be near each other again? We explore these questions and more with Dr. Lindsey Neal, a Charlottesville-based physician. Visit vpm.org/helpers for more information.2020-04-1624 minSocial Distance AssistanceMeet the Mask MakersWhy are so many people trying their hands at sewing homemade masks? Making a mask not only helps the wearers feel safe, it helps the maker feel useful and part of a movement. We speak with members of an Atlanta-based volunteer group that’s been able to deliver more than 13,000 masks to their local hospital system, hear why a long-time sewist only started making masks in the past week, and even make a couple masks ourselves. Visit vpm.org/helpers for more information. Music by Blue Dot Sessions.2020-04-1424 min