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The Weed Out Podcast
EP83: worcester ICE raids and fallout w/ David Webb - 06092025
ICE ICE BABY todays episode was recorded on 06/09/2025 ICE created havoc in Worcester in May 2025 detaining women and children while creating an environment where local folk felt they had to intervene. The fallout: a counselor charged with assault and a local "instigative journalist" David Webb was hit with a trespass order and a cease and desist for his role in demanding answers and data regarding this incident. Join us on this episode and always you can follow us on social media or go to www.theweedout.com here are som...
2025-06-11
1h 06
The Weed Out Podcast
EP82: creeping fascism in Pittsfield, MA w/ Michael Hitchcock
hey hey hey thanks for tuning into the weedout where we weed out the bull shit going on in our backyard. this episode Michael Hitchcock, organizer from Roots and Dreams and Mustard Seeds in Pittsfield MA joins us to discuss the town and the mayors attempt to curb free speech and harm panhandlers/the unhoused. lack of housing is a policy choice and Michael discusses the inner workings of the political system in Pittsfield to explain how we got here. We also discuss the organizing to aide this being targeted by ICE. tune i...
2025-04-22
1h 05
The Weed Out Podcast
EP81: during emergencies cops are expensive traffic cones
Currently on the federal level, "DOGE" is defunding contracts, institutions, so on and so forth the un-fun way: the fascist way. Defunding can be a wonderful thing when done with the proletariat in mind, but when left in the hands of Neo_badguys, defunding is never helpful. They will destroy and defund "helpful" institutions like the FAA and CDC but never the corrupt and unhelpful law enforcement. When the chips are down, say in a snow storm, cops will literally be touted as heroes when the best they can do is put their lights on a...
2025-02-17
21 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP80: ICE in schools: holyoke and massachusetts edition
Hey y'all. 2025 is mask off fash, so we figured we would update and add our thoughts on recent news regarding ICE and other Federal agencies invading our communities. Our guiding principle remains simple: we keep us safe. keep weeding out the bullshit. get to know your neighbors and please don't let our public servants like Joshua Garcia, Maura Healey and the rest promise the bare minimum. They wanted to lead so hold them to that. We. Keep. Us. Safe. www.theweedout.com links to articles discussed: https://www.westernmassnews.com...
2025-01-27
29 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP79: ghoulery, no tomfoolery: ofc reyes(and every cop) lawsuits defund us
Joanna and Spence hop in to break down the shoestring's reporting of the victim of Officer Reyes potentially getting a settlement due to the allegations brought against Ofc Reyes in a court of law. We do not want to focus on Ofc. Reyes, but use this as an example of how these systems and institutions of law enforcement are not used to protect and serve. It is a corrupt institution from its founding and these stories are in every backyard, town, city and beyond. Weed out this bull shit. link to main source within this art...
2024-10-17
52 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 78: Northampton PD and others sweep Moose Camp by surprise
On Friday Oct 11, 2024, Northampton PD and other local law enforcement forcibly swept Moose Camp from their Fitzgerald Lake camp in Northampton, MA. Please reach out to those organizing around Moose Camp if you can help. At the very least, call the Northampton Mayors and Police offices to demand better treatment of these folks. Link to article here https://theshoestring.org/2024/10/11/police-in-northampton-evict-outdoor-recovery-camp/ As this story unfolds we will continue to share what we hear on the ground. www.theweedout.com
2024-10-15
07 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP77: Holyoke to settle with victim of Ofc. Reyes
Laura Saylor and Spence react to the news from www.theshoestring.com reporting on documents pertaining to possible settlement payments for the former police officer who was alleged to have been harassed and abused by Officer Reyes (technically a Captain but we don't respect rank here) link to story here This story is important and we will break it down in further episodes. This story made the light of day because of committed folk in Holyokes community and those at places like the Shoestring who are weeding out the bull shit in our communities.
2024-10-11
39 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 76: UPDATE Northampton MA - Moose Camp Sweep Fails - 10072024
UPDATE on the camp for unhoused in Northampton, known as Moose Camp, was set to be swept and cleared today 10/07/2024 but that did not happen. Solidarity to the community who showed up in numbers when the Northampton PD, HHS and Mayor's Office arrived. Reports from the ground said that no arrests were made and the sweep/eviction did not ultimately occur. details here via the shoestring We got word of this encampment being in danger of the violence of the state via instagram from this post. If you have any questions, comments or th...
2024-10-08
14 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP75: weird (comma) fascists
Akil Vicks of On One joins us again to discuss the presidential ticket and the importance a comma makes. The fascists are weird but the liberals normalize it and help move the goal posts. ghoulery & tomfoolery: Mass State Trooper trainee dead at Academy "training" www.theweedout.com
2024-09-20
1h 27
The Weed Out Podcast
EP74: Officer Farwell Indicted for the murder of Sandra Birchmore
Laura Saylor joins us to update on sandra birchmore and the accused murderer, officer matthew farwell this is far from over. this isn’t true crime. this is the weed out. www.theweedout.com
2024-09-09
1h 39
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 73: Deadly Police Exchange: IOF and USA policing
This week, Laura Saylor joins us and we discuss the deadly police exchange of the IOF and USA policing. Have you heard of #copcity? Yeah, that's our DNC liberals wet dream of "training" and the program is built on an exchange of "ideas" between USA policing and IOF occupation. GHOULERY AND TOMFOOLERY: This week the Shoestring covers Holyoke PD in conjunction with other local ghouls they are harassing folk in lower ward apartment buildings, essentially arresting civilians for existing, which leads to collecting court feels all while patrolling private landlords property, subsidized by us! yay!!!...
2024-08-21
1h 39
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 72: VEEP reality stranger than fiction
Join Akil Vicks of On One and Spencer Fox discuss Akil's piece on the VEEP sweepstakes in the 2024 Federal elections. Find his article here published to In These Times We skipped Ghoulery and Tomfoolery™️ this week but we will bring it back next time. Too much ghoulishness in the main story with these elected officials to need a separate segment! As always follow us on social media or www.theweedout.com
2024-08-06
1h 10
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 71: Andrew Quemere talks about James Carver and the Justice System
Andrew Quemere of The Mass Dump: A massive dump of Massachusetts public records joins theweedout to share his investigation of public records in regards to the conviction of James Carver and the aftermath of a fire, multiple trials and ultimately 15 deceased in a fire. It's the same ol stuff, as far as the weedout and cops/the courts go. FYI some background regarding James Carver and his possible wrongful conviction: https://andrewqmr.substack.com/p/james-carver-elliott-chambers-fire first follow up piece: https://andrewqmr.substack.com/p/james-carver-eyewitness-identification Subscribe to The Mass Dump to catch more in depth coverage from...
2024-08-01
1h 49
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 70: Demilitarize Western MA update - summer 2024
this episode we welcome back former guests, Demilitarize Western Mass, to discuss their recent direct actions and what its like to be in the organizing spaces locally. Joey and Clara are just two of many in their collective and we are so happy to have them on to discuss action at L3Harris in Northampton. If you wish to learn more about demilitarize wmass follow them on instagram and twitter and as usual stick around for ghoulery annddddd tomfoolery at the end of the episode! ps. here's what corporate media entities ha...
2024-08-01
57 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 69: Colluding Landlords using RealPage
Join us as Akil Vicks (On One on substack) and Spencer discuss recent news that Real Page has been colluding with landlords to artificially raise the prices of rent to the detriment of tenants. Links referenced in the show: https://jacobin.com/2024/04/homelessness-constitution-rights-supreme-court https://jacobin.com/2023/03/biden-administration-homelessness-public-housing-crisis www.theweedout.com
2024-06-20
1h 08
The Weed Out Podcast
EP68: Neighbor to Neighbor Holyoke with José Maldonado-Velez - 06122024
the weedout is happy to have Neighbor to Neighbor in #holyoke José Maldonado-Velez join us to update what's happening with holyoke's police commission, office of tenant protections, organizing and more! please get connected with Neighbor to Neighbor to organize better communities! links mentioned in the episode: Neighbor to Neighbor Website: n2nma.org Email Holyoke Organizer: joseM@n2nma.org Email Springfield Organizer: katie@n2nma.org Link to Police Commission Survey: https://forms.gle/YopeSiMNtBMxm1Sq7 www.theweedout.com
2024-06-14
43 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP67: Justice for Sandra Birchmore/Karen Read case with Laura Saylor
Laura Saylor guest cohosts with Spencer, in this episode, and they get into the Karen Read cause out East along with the tragic case of Sandra Birchmore. Come for the true crime updates and stay for the ghoulery and tomfoolery! Thanks for your support. xoxo theweedout.com
2024-06-10
1h 02
The Weed Out Podcast
EP66: Congressman McGovern
Listen in to Spence and co-host Akil Vicks discuss all things local along with some difficult topics near and far! Thanks for the support :) xoxo theweedout.com
2024-05-31
1h 38
The Weed Out Podcast
EP65: Morgan Peterson - Blown Away Season 4 winner
Morgan Peterson the winner of Season 4 of Blown Away on Netflix joins us to chat about art and the experience on Blown away as well as how life and the political cannot be left out of Morgan's work. Please visit her website and see for yourself if you haven't already at www.themorganpeterson.com P.S. Morgan is Spence's sister :) www.theweedout.com
2024-05-23
1h 15
The Weed Out Podcast
EP64: Smith College SJP Occupy
Some members of the SJP at Smith College join Spence for a conversation about what they are doing and more. Please listen in and support the students across WMA that are protesting peacefully in hopes to end a genocide.
2024-04-30
36 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP63: Bill Shaner of Worcester sucks and I love it.
Bill Shaner of Worcester Sucks and I love it joins us to talk all things Worcester, city politics, and more! www.theweedout.com
2024-04-16
52 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP62: Meet the candidates of the Workers Party of Massachusetts
Join us to meet the four candidates running in Massachusetts in 2024 from the Workers Party! This third party is a socialist principled political group with activist and leaders across the state. They need assistance in gathering signatures in order to get on the ballot at the Federal Level, even if you don't vote 3rd party, please assist them if you can in strengthening democracy and allowing more parties than the two we have now! Thanks for listening and the support! xoxo www.theweedout.com
2024-04-09
1h 36
The Weed Out Podcast
EP61: Akil Vicks from On One
Akil Vicks is a local writer and activist. Akil is from Philadelphia and has a background in research. He is currently working on multiple writing projects including contributing to Jacobin. Join us for a discussion about the election year, local politics, and more! theweedout.com
2024-03-07
1h 12
The Weed Out Podcast
EP60: Michael Hitchcock joins us!
For episode 60, we get an update on the Berkshires biggest town - Pittsfield (they have a new Mayor) and are facing a housing crisis. Michael weighs in on this and gives us all an update on what he and his wife are doing with their organization Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds Inc. Many of us Western Ma folx know and love King Kone - get an update on that too! xoxo theweedout.com
2024-02-07
1h 05
The Weed Out Podcast
EP59:RiverValleyPSL returns after DC visit to report back
RiverValleyPSL joins us again after visiting DC on JAN. 13th to protest the genocide in Gaza. There were reports of 400,000 thousand people that gathered together with this common demand for the President and the leaders of the West who are engaging in these actions. Tune in to hear about the experience from a group that went locally! theweedout.com
2024-01-24
54 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP58: Sierra Dickey discusses local journalism, police accountability, & more!
Sierra Dickey is a writer, educator, and organizer Sierra's writings on abolition, immigration, education, gender, labor, and nature have been featured in publications like Shadowproof, Modern Farmer, Documented, Talk Poverty, and Library Journal. She currently covers police and prisons for The Shoestring. Sierra has a Master’s in Education from Antioch University and has spent years working with immigrant learners in Vermont, Western Massachusetts, and Maine. Listen in to hear more about Sierra's most recent work, what it's like to moderate and direct forums for the shoestring and how one finds information or inspiration to write as a j...
2024-01-17
49 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP57: RiverValleyPSL is on the mic!
On January 13th, the RiverValleyPSL is heading to DC to come together with other like minded people to "deliver a powerful message" that is asking for ceasefire and the US to disengage with the genocide in Gaza. Over 100 people from Western Ma will ride from Amherst, Northampton, and Springfield to meet in D.C. - they hope you will join them! If you'd like to join them and have not yet registered please do so here: https://donorbox.org/jan-13-river-valley-to-dc If you can't go, but...
2024-01-09
37 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP 56 Copaganda parades and more!
Join us as we discuss the fascist parades in the wake of a waltham, ma police officer and national grid worker killed in a motor vehicle accident. cops parade as a show of force, collect OT, whitewash their image with the deceased body of a coworker. we discuss the role this plays in manufacturing consent.
2023-12-21
1h 15
The Weed Out Podcast
EP55: Beware of the inner ableist
We are talking ableism and how it is baked into our language and so many things that it is something we all have to work on pushing back on the norm. If you are not someone who is disabled, we discuss how someday we will all face some kind of disability. The word disability is another term that is often criticized by those who are differently abled as it implies difference and inability in the name. This is one example of how it permeates the language and culture that we live in. Thanks for listening and considering ableism and...
2023-12-13
1h 12
The Weed Out Podcast
EP54: All cats are beautiful!
Spencer and Joanna will be talking all things CATS! The cute little fur balls are often used as a symbol of antifascists movements, they are the assigned pet of "witches", and they really bring the joy and the are only a few of the things we discuss. We could not resist a chance to chat about our cats and the different ways they are used as symbols that align with our values. As always, we also will include some local ghoulery & tomfoolery. All of the shelters in Western, Ma are a great place to find a wonderful...
2023-12-07
1h 19
The Weed Out Podcast
EP53: Demilitarize Western MA joins us
Clara and Fergus, from Demilitarize Western MA, join us to discuss recent direct actions taken against L3 Harris in Northampton, MA. We talk about the group, their goals, and how the group ended up taking these direct actions. Please listen in to hear more and to get involved if you'd be interested in doing them. theweedout.com
2023-11-27
54 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP52: Holyoke PD’s Captain Reyes retires
Spencer and Joanna will discuss the allegations against Captain Reyes and what the Holyoke administration/PD did in order to investigate and handle the allegations. Captain Reyes handled any internal affairs issues and so people reporting concerns would have to go to him. He was eventually accused of creating a hostile work environment which included sexual harassment even when asked to stop. The person that made the allegations was also an officer on the Holyoke PD. Join us to discuss this mess and find out how much it costs the tax payers!
2023-11-16
38 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP51: Owen Broadhurst talks Holyoke Police & Worker’s Party MA
Owen Broadhurst is a local organizer and friend of The Weed Out. He joins us to discuss recent sweeps of certain neighborhoods in Holyoke that have impacted not only Owen's close connections but neighbors to all of us in the Western Ma Community. The police arrested some for not having ID on them and this should not be the case. Owen also gives the audience an update on The Worker's Party here in Western Ma and how to get involved if you would like to know more or join. Thanks for listening, sharing and following along! We appreciate you...
2023-10-30
54 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP50 Laura Saylor back to discuss Justice for Sandra Birchmore and more
Laura Saylor joins us to give us some updates on what is going on in her part of the state (Eastern, MA). She gives us an update on Ron Sellon and the protesting her and her organizers are doing regarding this Police Chief being able to keep his position. Further, she talks about why she is still focusing on Sandra Birchmore and will continue to protest and meet with the people that have information that should be used to bring some kind of justice for Sandra. www.theweedout.com
2023-10-23
1h 08
The Weed Out Podcast
EP49: Decarcerate Western MA speaks on No Long 3/5 Coalition
Danielle and Tamik (who is a person who remains incarcerated in Hampden County) join Spence and Joanna to ask the Western Ma Community for your help. We discuss the No Longer 3/5ths Coalition and what that means for those that remain incarcerated here in MA. The ability for those people to have the right to vote was taken away in 2000. We need people to gather signature to restore this right for those incarcerate. Please listen in as to why and how you can help. www.theweedout.com
2023-10-17
1h 02
The Weed Out Podcast
EP48: Defund 413 joins us
Listen in to hear from Defund 413! We ask them who they are and what they are all about. Spence chats to one of the members Birdy about what is happening in Amherst, MA right now along with the CRESS program and the local elections that are coming up on Tuesday, November 7th. Please share with those you know in that town and listen in to hear about what is happening in a community here in Western Ma that addresses needs of the citizens and removes police interactions and so much more! www.theweedout.com
2023-10-11
40 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP47: Trader Joe’s United joins us
This episode is an update from the Trader Joe's United Union here in Hadley, MA. Listen in for some updates on what's going on, how we as a community can help, and how the National Union campaign is going for Trader Joe's! www.theweedout.com
2023-09-26
47 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP46: Katie Talbot from N2N joins us with some updates
Katie Talbot is back with some good news and some updates from Neighbor to Neighbor. There are some local elections, housing organizing and dates that are coming up to watch out for, and some initiatives at the state level that we can all take action on. Listen in to here more about how you can get involved with your neighbors! www.theweedout.com
2023-09-13
1h 00
The Weed Out Podcast
EP45: 9/11 and Copaganda - Special Episode
It's 9/11 and how could anyone ever forget with the way the media and government have used this tragedy. Listen in as we discuss 9/11, the aftermath, and why it's important to have discussions about this date that reflects on more than the narratives assigned to it. Ghoulery and TomFoolery segment: https://x.com/JoshLandesWAMC/status/1700600598536524237?s=20 https://x.com/theweedout/status/1700611285086343615?s=20 www.theweedout.com
2023-09-11
1h 05
The Weed Out Podcast
EP44: Laura Saylor with updates on Sandra Birchmore
Laura Saylor is an activist, abolitionist and organizer in Mansfield, MA. She is dedicated to finding the truth about what happened to Sandra Birchmore on in Eastern Mass (Canton/Stoughton area). She was a young woman who lost her life too young and deserves the truth to come out about what really happened to her. This case involves police officers and DAs who still are in their positions and have done nothing or have moved up or onto different positions of power. Join us and find out more and how to help if you are able to attend a...
2023-08-31
1h 27
The Weed Out Podcast
EP43: Special Report: Protest Against Police Brutality - Northampton, MA
On Sunday (August 13th), a group of people (around 100 people) gathered outside of City Hall in Northampton, MA. This group was demanding action for the police brutality that was recently brought to light by theshoestring.org. The incident from this report took place on April 4th but it should be noted that there are two other people currently suing Northampton Police for their inappropriate use of force. The organizers of this event were the Workers Party of Western MA, The Communist Party, Party of Socialism of Liberation of the Pioneer Valley. Please listen in for more from some of t...
2023-08-14
19 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP42: Police Brutality in Northampton, MA
Content Warning: This episode discusses police brutality and violence against civilians. Please be advised. ****** On April 4th, Holyoke resident Marisol Driouech was stopped for a headlight out on her vehicle. Driouech was picking up a delivery for an online food ordering service when they were stopped by the police. It then turned violent for Driouech rather quickly with the Northampton police being the ones to carry out the violence. This story was covered by theshoestring.org and can be found here. theweedout.com for more!
2023-08-11
1h 14
The Weed Out Podcast
EP41:New surveillance in Easthampton & other local news
Recently, our friends at theshoestring.org covered some technology that the Easthampton police will soon be using to monitor the citizens in their region. As we know, these technologies typically cost the taxpayers money and do not work accurately and are used for reasons other than "safety". Please listen in to hear more about this as well as some other local news.
2023-08-03
1h 04
The Weed Out Podcast
EP40: Mass Transparency Project with Jeff Raymond
Jeff Raymond of the Mass Transparency Project joins us for our 40th episode. Jeff talks about why having access to public records is important to accessing how money is being used and allocated in a community. It can be a way for the community to tell what is happening with individual municipal employees, etc. Join us to hear some of the wild stories Jeff has from getting some information he has requested. You will also be surprised (or not!) that he still has a large number of appeals pending as many public records have not been freely given yet...
2023-07-18
1h 06
The Weed Out Podcast
EP39: Local Headlines with Spencer and Joanna
This time we are breaking out some fresh local headlines to talk about and share with y'all. Some have to do with beekeeping, the Trader Joe's Union, others are about local town budgets, and along the way we discuss the importance of the DPW and how the police are really the ones defunding their own communities. Join us for some local news and laughs! theweedout.com
2023-07-11
1h 05
The Weed Out Podcast
EP38: Andrew Quemere joins to discuss NW-DA lawsuit for Public Records
One of our favorite journalists, Andrew Quemere joins us to discuss the Northwestern DA here in MA withholding public records. Andrew was persistent in asking for records and had to put in multiple appeals. These are requests that Andrew has made to multiple DA's throughout the state. The NW DA did not agree that these records should be made public. Listen in to find out what happened with Andrew's public records requests, how he will proceed and how you can get assistance if this were to happen to you.
2023-07-03
1h 28
The Weed Out Podcast
EP37: Holyoke Memes on the scene
In this episode, one of the admins from the IG account Holyoke Memes joins us to discuss local politics, shit posting and how it can be cathartic and also bring awareness and how important it is to laugh! Please join us for a fun and informative discussion. theweedout.com
2023-06-27
1h 14
The Weed Out Podcast
EP36: Solidarity Economy Festival & Gathering in Pittsfield, MA
On June 10th, The Weed Out and our street team (shout out to Bridget, Caleb and Jay Jay!) went to the Common Park in Pittsfield, MA to join with other like minded people for the Solidarity Economy Festival & Gathering. We spoke to a number of people at the gathering both organizers and attendees about what makes them feel safe and what brings them joy. Please listen in, it was a wonderful time! theweedout.com
2023-06-20
45 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP35:Draven Dolores joins us.
This episode we speak with Draven Dolores a Springfield resident who is a native and has faced being an unhoused youth. Draven has founds resources in the community that helped and made it possible for them to find housing, get a degree and find work. Draven is an activist who focuses on local government, housing, and had even travelled to DC with Neighbor to Neighbor and others to discuss housing issues that the Federal Level. Please listen in for local resources. Draven shows how important it is to uplift the community with help and not violence.
2023-06-14
1h 23
The Weed Out Podcast
EP34:Barnes & Noble Hadley Union Organizers 2
Izzie & Thalia join us for a second time after their recent vote on Friday, May 25th. It was a unanimous vote to move forward and unionize. Please join us to celebrate this win with them, talk about what is coming, and learn how to support them on the long road ahead! www.theweedout.com
2023-06-05
1h 14
The Weed Out Podcast
EP33: Finding joy with Spencer & Joanna
How do you find your joy? Do you find it in the little things? Do you like to plan ahead and have something "big" to look forward to or maybe it's a mix of it all? No matter how you find it we hope everyone knows how important it is to take a step back sometimes and see all the good there is in this beautiful World. Spencer and Joanna talk about gardening, obviously, and so much more! You'll have to listen in to see what else bring us joy. We give more information on the Solidarity Ec...
2023-05-25
50 min
The Weed Out Podcast
EP32: Michael Hitchcock of Roots and Dreams and Mustard Seeds in Pittsfield, MA
Michael Hitchcock of Roots and Dreams and Mustard Seeds joins us for a second time. Michael fills us in on what he and his spouse are working on while co-directing the non-profit in downtown Pittsfield. We talk a little bit about the upcoming mayoral race in Pittsfield as it is that time for a number of municipalities in Western, MA. On June 10th & 11th the Solidarity Economy Festival & Gathering will be held at the Common Park in downtown Pittsfield. Please head down to the Common on June 10th there is a Farmers Market in the morning that y...
2023-05-18
1h 36
The Weed Out Podcast
EP31: Local Headlines with Joanna & Spencer
We heard you when you reached out after the last episode on local headlines and are back at it in this episode. We have gathered stories from all over Western, MA along with one focusing on the State and one being national news. We select stories that highlight either issues in the community or things we can celebrate - such at upcoming Berkshire Pride. Listen in for all the good, bad, the funny and so much more! Link to theweedout.com for more info.
2023-05-13
1h 36
The Weed Out Podcast
EP30: Barnes and Noble Hadley - Union Organizers join us for a chat!
It's the 30th episode of The Weed Out and we are so excited to bring you 3 of the Union Organizers from Hadley, MA who helped establish and intent to unionize. They are the second store in the country and we are so happy for them to give us some of the details so that we can support them as a community and continue to uplift all workers. Solidarity with all unions and workers! For links please visit theweedout.com
2023-05-05
1h 07
The Weed Out Podcast
EP29: Laura Saylor talks about Karen Read case, Police Brutality/Corruption out East
Laura Saylor joins us for a second discussion about police brutality and corruption happening out in Eastern, MA. These are not specific to Western, MA but are not so far away that we should not all take notice and be aware of what is happening nearby. The Chief in one town is refusing to leave after being dismissed. A woman has been allegedly framed by a group of Police for murder of her partner who was also a cop. Lastly, we will talk more about the Sandra Birchmore case as Laura and others hope for justice for Sandra. All...
2023-05-02
1h 55
The Weed Out Podcast
EP28: Decarcerate Western Mass
Decarcerate Western Mass joins Joanna & Spencer to discuss all the great things they are doing in the region. Decarcerate Western Mass "is a coalition of people and organizations that came together at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic with the purpose of supporting incarcerated folks and getting people released." They are an abolitionist group, aiming to reduce the number of people incarcerated in prisons and jails with a local focus in Western Mass.
2023-04-19
42 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 27: Local Headlines with Joanna & Spencer
Listen in for some local headlines from all around Western, Mass. Some you may have read and others you may not have seen. They are stories that are good to focus on as municipalities throughout the region set their budgets. The budgets we have show our values as a community. Thank you for listening and you all take care! For more information, including links to all stories mentioned please visit: www.theweedout.com
2023-04-12
43 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 26: Will Meyer Co-Editor of The Shoestring
Joanna & Spencer have a chat with Will Meyer of the Shoestring about local media. We discuss local independent journalists and how important this is as we continue to see more and more news sources having layoffs, closing, or being PR for local police departments or businesses. Please listen in and maybe you will be interested in reaching out to the Shoestring to write a local story or you may start following them to keep informed - either way, enjoy & take good care! Visit theweedout.com for links and more info.
2023-04-03
44 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 25: Katie Talbot from Neighbor to Neighbor
Katie Talbot from Neighbor to Neighbor in Holyoke, MA joins us! www.theweedout.com for more info and links
2023-03-28
1h 24
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 24: The Weed Out & The Young Jurks - Spence and Mike get into it!
This episode of The Weed Out features Mike Crawford of The Young Jurks. Spence and Mike do some cross pollinating of our shows and direct action that focus on Worker's rights here in MA and beyond! Thank you, Mike, for joining us this time - can't wait to do it again. Visit theweedout.com for links and more info.
2023-03-20
1h 06
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 23: Records Request with Andrew Quemere Part 2
Joanna and Spencer are joined by Andrew Quemere again to finish up our talk on the Records request process here in MA. As we said in the last episode, the law states that citizens have access to certain information. Andrew discussed the law and how to make a request in part 1. This episode focuses on the appeal process and what to do if you aren't getting the records you are requesting. www.theweedout.com for more info and links
2023-03-07
1h 37
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 22: Andrew Quemere & records request in MA - Part 1
Joanna and Spencer are joined by Andrew Quemere in this episode about records requests and the freedom of information act. Here in MA, citizens have access to certain information. Andrew will discuss this law with us and some pros and cons. This is part 1 of a focus on public records with Andrew who is an expert on this topic and will walk us through the process as we go along. Please join us! www.theweedout.com for more info and links
2023-02-25
51 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 21: Laura Saylor joins us to discuss the Sandra Birchmore case & more!
Laura Saylor, of the Workers Party, joins us this week to discuss the case of Sandra Birchmore which takes place in Canton, Ma as well as a number of other towns in Eastern, Ma. Birchmore was 13 when she was first introduced to her abusers through a school resources program that connects police officers with children. Sandra died pregnant after years of sexual abuse and trafficking at the hands of those who were supposed to serve and protect her. Laura will also discuss a bit about the Workers Party and another police murder in Easton, MA of Marianne Griffiths when...
2023-02-17
1h 53
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 20: Local Organizing & how to get involved with Dev
In this episode, we had a great discussion with Dev a local organizer and activist. Dev is affiliated with the Party for Socialism and Liberation and is working with others who hope to focus on their values and grow here in Western Ma as a group. Dev and members of the local PLS group work closely with other local groups like the Western Ma Worker's Party as well as the Tenants Union of Western MA, Northampton Abolition Now, and others. Dev and the organizers he works with hope to uplift the community and imagine a better future for us...
2023-02-10
50 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 19: Andrew Quemere discussing police brutality in the Berkshires
Please listen in while we talk with Andrew Quemere about police brutality in a tiny town in the farthest Western corner of the state. Not only does this story involve the police in two small towns, but all the way from Pittsfield Chief of Police, the Berkshire County DA, and the Mass State Police. Andrew is an independent investigative journalist and his work can be found on The Mass Dump a newsletter he writes focusing on public records, police, and the legal system in Massachusetts. Please follow, share, and subscribe to get updates! Go...
2023-01-31
1h 56
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 18 - Copaganda News Hour: Cambridge PD & Berkshire DA
Join Spencer and Joanna to talk about the recent murder of Sayed Faisal in Cambridge and things shared by the Berkshire DA regarding recent drug busts and tie these issues together in how both utilize copaganda to direct the narrative to the public. We have spoken about copaganda in the past and we will keep speaking about it. It is part of our media that is often hard to identify. Go to theweedout.com for more!
2023-01-18
1h 25
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 17: Social work & abolition with Bridget Kearney
Visit theweedout.com for more information.
2023-01-09
1h 10
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 16: Real talk with Spencer Fox
For this episode, Spencer goes solo and discusses Copoganda. It permeates much of society through the news, TV shows, social media, and so on. For more visit: theweedout.com
2022-12-30
23 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 15: The Lady Killigrew is now Unionized
Join us while we discuss the newest small business in the area to vote to unionize - The Lady Killigrew cafe in Montague, MA. Please visit theweedout.com for more information.
2022-12-23
28 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 14: Talking with Michael Hitchcock about all things Pittsfield & beyond
Please listen in on your discussion with a friend of the show and local activist, Michael Hitchock of Pittsfield, MA.
2022-12-15
1h 32
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 13: A conversation with John ”JR” Rivera
Join us while we have a conversation with local organizer and activist John "JR" Rivera.
2022-12-07
40 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 12: Suher and other local ghoulery
Please join us as we discuss downtown Northampton and one of the most well-known real estate ghouls - Eric Suher.
2022-12-01
55 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 11: The Police next door - Worcester PD & the DOJ
Join us as we discuss the Worcester Police Department's recent news that the DOJ will be taking over to conduct an audit. Worcester is in Central MA so about an hour from where we are located and we thought since Springfield, MA recently was investigated as well (in the last few years) we could discuss that too.
2022-11-25
35 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 10: Let’s talk unions!
Listen in while we discuss union organizing, worker solidarity, and what that looks like locally and all over. Union popularity is the highest it's been in 20 years. We see Starbucks, Amazon, and other stores and businesses where workers are organizing. We are excited about this increase in interest in worker's rights and hope you are too!
2022-11-17
53 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 9: More from the Holyoke City Council (10/18/2022 Meeting highlights)
This episode focuses on the Holyoke City Council meeting on 10/18/2022. We have highlighted a few discussions from that meeting between some of the councilors. Thanks for listening and for the support!
2022-11-10
1h 08
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 8: Spencer interviews Joanna
In this episode, please join us for part 2 of our interviews with each other. Spencer will be interviewing Joanna - thanks for the support and take care!
2022-11-08
1h 12
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 7: In deep with Spencer
In this episode, Joanna will interview Spencer and dive in with some personal questions. This will give the audience some more in-depth information about the co-host. Thanks for listening, we appreciate you!
2022-11-03
58 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 6: The Prison Industrial Complex
This episode focuses on the Prison Industrial Complex in the US. Please join us as we discuss this system while imagining a new way and a more just and safe future for us all.
2022-10-26
56 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 5: Police are defunding the community
In this episode, we will discuss how the Police are defunding the communities that they work in and not the other way around.
2022-10-19
52 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 4: October 4th, 2022 Holyoke City Council Meeting & more
This episode is focusing on the Holyoke City Council meeting that was held on October 4th, 2022.
2022-10-13
1h 17
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 3
Give us a listen while we discuss civility politics.
2022-09-22
57 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode 2
Please listen in while we discuss data and what that word means overall.
2022-09-10
43 min
The Weed Out Podcast
Episode One
An inaugural podcast made by two abolitionists living in Western, MA. We introduce ourselves and discuss our tone overall as we go forward and civility norms in society that drive how we all are supposed to speak or act. This is an ever-evolving project that will focus on both local and more broad local news and current events/issues that are important to all of us. Please join us when you are in the right head space!
2022-08-31
1h 12