Rhode Island PBS Weekly Podcast

On this episode, we revisit the story of Amin Faqiry, an Afghan translator who fled to the Ocean State after the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan. Then, we take a second look at a story about a photographer cataloguing lighthouses up and down the east coast. Finally, an update on Troy Quinn, a conductor with a surprising resume.

On this episode, we revisit powerful stories from indigenous Rhode Islanders who describe what it is like to grow up Native American. Then, we take a second look at how a gift of books from Benjamin Franklin changed a town and helped start a movement for public education. Finally, we return to the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library with fascinating stories to tell.

On this episode, an update on Pamela Watts’ deep dive into the tragic history of Indian boarding schools. Then, we revisit Bill Bartholomew’s interview with photographer Mary Beth Meehan, who strives to go behind the myths and shine a light on the lives of people ignored by society. Finally, we return to Linden Place, a Bristol, RI historic home museum that has taken a hard look at its relationship with racial justice.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel meets Brian Jones, a tap dancer with a colorful career. Then, we revisit contributing reporter Bill Bartholomew’s profile of Dan Blakeslee, visual artist and musician. Finally, we return a landmark known as the “Sistine Chapel of Rhode Island.”

This episode takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of shellfish. First, as part of the continuing series Green Seeker, Isabella Jibilian provides an update on how oysters have become an unlikely favorite among environmentalists. Then, we revisit how genetic research has helped oyster populations rebound from deadly disease. Finally, we take to the seas for a second look at how COVID-19 affect Rhode Island’s quahog industry.

This episode, we take a second look at Michelle San Miguel’s candid interview with Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera, who speaks about the challenges facing Rhode Island’s smallest city. Then, an update on Pamela Watts’ investigation into the increase in homicides in Providence. Plus, Bill Bartholomew profiles an artist who battles gun violence with an unlikely weapon.

This week on RI PBS Weekly, Pamela Watts reports on why Rhode Island has become one of the top destinations for television and film productions.

Next, before there was Hollywood, Rhode Island had a film entertainment industry of its own. We explore those early productions and highlight a fragment of the thousands of hours of local films housed at the Rhode Island Historical Society.

Next , star local storyteller Bill Harley gives us his “take” on the art of storytelling.

On this episode, contributing producer Dorothy Dickie takes an in-depth look at a difficult issue: domestic violence. Then, an update on how fears about climate change have sparked new interest in nuclear energy. Plus, home cook Dan Rinaldi shares some of his favorite recipes in our continuing series, My Take, and finally, a sneak peek at a new Ken Burns documentary.

Michelle San Miguel explores how the pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, increasing demand on the already drained mental healthcare system. Then, Pamela Watts speaks to two transgender Rhode Islanders about their journeys to living their best lives. Finally, a look at the link between social media use and poor mental health, especially among teen girls. This episode was generously supported by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

On this week’s show, Pamela Watts sits down with New York Times bestselling author and West Warwick native Ann Hood about her latest book which reflects on the writers’ time as a TWA flight attendant.

Next we meet Englishman William Crisp who is flying the flag for Polo right here in Newport. - through passion and wit.

Finally, Waterfire is back! Pamela Watts sits down with Barnaby Evans, the man who made it all happen.