Shows
The Weed Out PodcastEP83: worcester ICE raids and fallout w/ David Webb - 06092025ICE 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...
2025-06-111h 06The Weed Out PodcastEP82: creeping fascism in Pittsfield, MA w/ Michael Hitchcockhey 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...
2025-04-221h 05The Weed Out PodcastEP81: during emergencies cops are expensive traffic conesCurrently 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...
2025-02-1721 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP80: ICE in schools: holyoke and massachusetts editionHey 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...
2025-01-2729 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP79: ghoulery, no tomfoolery: ofc reyes(and every cop) lawsuits defund usJoanna 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...
2024-10-1752 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP 78: Northampton PD and others sweep Moose Camp by surpriseOn 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
2024-10-1507 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP77: Holyoke to settle with victim of Ofc. ReyesLaura 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.
2024-10-1139 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP 76: UPDATE Northampton MA - Moose Camp Sweep Fails - 10072024UPDATE 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...
2024-10-0814 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP75: weird (comma) fascistsAkil 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
2024-09-201h 27The Weed Out PodcastEP74: Officer Farwell Indicted for the murder of Sandra BirchmoreLaura 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
2024-09-091h 39The Weed Out PodcastEP 73: Deadly Police Exchange: IOF and USA policingThis 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!!!...
2024-08-211h 39The Weed Out PodcastEP 72: VEEP reality stranger than fictionJoin 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
2024-08-061h 10The Weed Out PodcastEP 71: Andrew Quemere talks about James Carver and the Justice SystemAndrew 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...
2024-08-011h 49The Weed Out PodcastEP 70: Demilitarize Western MA update - summer 2024this 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...
2024-08-0157 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP 69: Colluding Landlords using RealPageJoin 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
2024-06-201h 08The Weed Out PodcastEP68: Neighbor to Neighbor Holyoke with José Maldonado-Velez - 06122024the 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
2024-06-1443 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP67: Justice for Sandra Birchmore/Karen Read case with Laura SaylorLaura 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
2024-06-101h 02The Weed Out PodcastEP66: Congressman McGovernListen 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
2024-05-311h 38The Weed Out PodcastEP65: Morgan Peterson - Blown Away Season 4 winnerMorgan 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
2024-05-231h 15The Weed Out PodcastEP64: Smith College SJP OccupySome 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.
2024-04-3036 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP63: 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
2024-04-1652 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP62: Meet the candidates of the Workers Party of MassachusettsJoin 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
2024-04-091h 36The Weed Out PodcastEP61: Akil Vicks from On OneAkil 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
2024-03-071h 12The Weed Out PodcastEP60: 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
2024-02-071h 05The Weed Out PodcastEP59:RiverValleyPSL returns after DC visit to report backRiverValleyPSL 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
2024-01-2454 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP58: 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...
2024-01-1749 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP57: 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...
2024-01-0937 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP 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.
2023-12-211h 15The Weed Out PodcastEP55: Beware of the inner ableistWe 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...
2023-12-131h 12The Weed Out PodcastEP54: 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...
2023-12-071h 19The Weed Out PodcastEP53: Demilitarize Western MA joins usClara 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
2023-11-2754 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP52: Holyoke PD’s Captain Reyes retiresSpencer 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!
2023-11-1638 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP51: Owen Broadhurst talks Holyoke Police & Worker’s Party MAOwen 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...
2023-10-3054 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP50 Laura Saylor back to discuss Justice for Sandra Birchmore and moreLaura 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
2023-10-231h 08The Weed Out PodcastEP49: Decarcerate Western MA speaks on No Long 3/5 CoalitionDanielle 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
2023-10-171h 02The Weed Out PodcastEP48: Defund 413 joins usListen 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
2023-10-1140 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP47: Trader Joe’s United joins usThis 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
2023-09-2647 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP46: Katie Talbot from N2N joins us with some updatesKatie 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
2023-09-131h 00The Weed Out PodcastEP45: 9/11 and Copaganda - Special EpisodeIt'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
2023-09-111h 05The Weed Out PodcastEP44: Laura Saylor with updates on Sandra BirchmoreLaura 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...
2023-08-311h 27The Weed Out PodcastEP43: Special Report: Protest Against Police Brutality - Northampton, MAOn 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...
2023-08-1419 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP42: Police Brutality in Northampton, MAContent 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!
2023-08-111h 14The Weed Out PodcastEP41:New surveillance in Easthampton & other local newsRecently, 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.
2023-08-031h 04The Weed Out PodcastEP40: Mass Transparency Project with Jeff RaymondJeff 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...
2023-07-181h 06The Weed Out PodcastEP39: Local Headlines with Spencer and JoannaThis 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
2023-07-111h 05The Weed Out PodcastEP38: Andrew Quemere joins to discuss NW-DA lawsuit for Public RecordsOne 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.
2023-07-031h 28The Weed Out PodcastEP37: Holyoke Memes on the sceneIn 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
2023-06-271h 14The Weed Out PodcastEP36: Solidarity Economy Festival & Gathering in Pittsfield, MAOn 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
2023-06-2045 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP35: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.
2023-06-141h 23The Weed Out PodcastEP34:Barnes & Noble Hadley Union Organizers 2Izzie & 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
2023-06-051h 14The Weed Out PodcastEP33: Finding joy with Spencer & JoannaHow 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...
2023-05-2550 minThe Weed Out PodcastEP32: Michael Hitchcock of Roots and Dreams and Mustard Seeds in Pittsfield, MAMichael 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...
2023-05-181h 36The Weed Out PodcastEP31: Local Headlines with Joanna & SpencerWe 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.
2023-05-131h 36The Weed Out PodcastEP30: 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
2023-05-051h 07The Weed Out PodcastEP29: Laura Saylor talks about Karen Read case, Police Brutality/Corruption out EastLaura 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...
2023-05-021h 55The Weed Out PodcastEP28: Decarcerate Western MassDecarcerate 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.
2023-04-1942 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 27: Local Headlines with Joanna & SpencerListen 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
2023-04-1243 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 26: Will Meyer Co-Editor of The ShoestringJoanna & 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.
2023-04-0344 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 25: Katie Talbot from Neighbor to NeighborKatie Talbot from Neighbor to Neighbor in Holyoke, MA joins us!
www.theweedout.com for more info and links
2023-03-281h 24The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 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.
2023-03-201h 06The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 23: Records Request with Andrew Quemere Part 2Joanna 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
2023-03-071h 37The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 22: Andrew Quemere & records request in MA - Part 1Joanna 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
2023-02-2551 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 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...
2023-02-171h 53The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 20: Local Organizing & how to get involved with DevIn 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...
2023-02-1050 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 19: Andrew Quemere discussing police brutality in the BerkshiresPlease 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...
2023-01-311h 56The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 18 - Copaganda News Hour: Cambridge PD & Berkshire DAJoin 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!
2023-01-181h 25The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 17: Social work & abolition with Bridget KearneyVisit theweedout.com for more information.
2023-01-091h 10The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 16: Real talk with Spencer FoxFor 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
2022-12-3023 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 15: The Lady Killigrew is now UnionizedJoin 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.
2022-12-2328 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 14: Talking with Michael Hitchcock about all things Pittsfield & beyondPlease listen in on your discussion with a friend of the show and local activist, Michael Hitchock of Pittsfield, MA.
2022-12-151h 32The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 13: A conversation with John ”JR” RiveraJoin us while we have a conversation with local organizer and activist John "JR" Rivera.
2022-12-0740 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 12: Suher and other local ghouleryPlease join us as we discuss downtown Northampton and one of the most well-known real estate ghouls - Eric Suher.
2022-12-0155 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 11: The Police next door - Worcester PD & the DOJJoin 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.
2022-11-2535 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 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!
2022-11-1753 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 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!
2022-11-101h 08The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 8: Spencer interviews JoannaIn 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!
2022-11-081h 12The Weed Out PodcastEpisode 7: In deep with SpencerIn 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!
2022-11-0358 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 6: The Prison Industrial ComplexThis 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.
2022-10-2656 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 5: Police are defunding the communityIn this episode, we will discuss how the Police are defunding the communities that they work in and not the other way around.
2022-10-1952 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 4: October 4th, 2022 Holyoke City Council Meeting & moreThis episode is focusing on the Holyoke City Council meeting that was held on October 4th, 2022.
2022-10-131h 172022-09-2257 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode 2Please listen in while we discuss data and what that word means overall.
2022-09-1043 minThe Weed Out PodcastEpisode OneAn 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!
2022-08-311h 12