The Rochester Post Podcast

In this episode, Matt talks to Cheryll Andrews, Executive Director of Dismas Home of New Hampshire, about their new location in Rochester. Dismas Home offers women a safe and welcoming home with all the clinical, medical, and educational support they need for continued recovery and preparation for the next chapter of life, work, and family. Our comprehensive program addresses the root cause of addiction cycles and justice-involvement, finally allowing them to make lasting change.

In this episode, Matt talks with members of the Rochester, NH Veterans for Veterans Social Group, a weekly gathering that brings local veterans together for camaraderie, conversation, and support. The group meets every Tuesday morning at the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center and is sponsored in part by the Rochester Recreation Department.

In this episode, Matt talks with Mayor Chuck Grassie about his first 100 days in office, the importance of public engagement, and some of the progress Rochester has made in recent years. He also discusses his family’s history in Rochester and the teacher who inspired him to run for office.

In this episode, Matt talks with Shawn Pierce of the Greater Rochester Camera Club about an upcoming exhibit featuring work by its members this June. The goal of the Camera Club is to provide photography enthusiasts of all skill levels with a place to learn and grow together. The club achieves this by fostering an open learning environment through group meetings and outings, with a focus on continuous improvement for all members.

In this episode, Matt talks with Rochester Main Street Executive Director Jeff Bisson and Promotions Committee Chair Mandie Smith about the organization’s upcoming spring events. They also discuss the importance of volunteerism and getting involved in your community if you’d like to make a difference.

In this episode, Matt talks to Shawn Pierce, Vice Chair of the Rochester Commission for Arts & Culture, about the upcoming Rochester Arts Awards and how they recognize artists, organizations, and advocates who highlight the city’s heritage, strengthen its cultural identity, and inspire community pride. Shawn also discusses co-founding the Greater Rochester Camera Club and the importance of creating spaces that support and connect local creatives. Please note that this episode was recorded remotely; we apologize for any issues with audio quality.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Rochester City Councilor Chuck Creteau to discuss the proposal to rename Shaw Park at City Hall as Veterans Park in honor of those who served. Creteau shares his experience working with veterans, explains why recognizing their service is so important to the community, and offers a brief history of the honor roll located in front of City Hall.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Teen Librarian Amy Lemelin, Rochester Public Library, to talk about the upcoming YA Author Fair and the many activities happening in the library’s Teen Room. The YA Author Fair will take place on Wednesday, February 25, at 6 p.m. in the Community Room, featuring local young adult authors Terry Farrish, Ron Kaiser, J.R. Rainville, and Adi Rule as they discuss the stories behind their books, share creative insights, and answer questions in a lively conversation.

Matt talks with Mandy Lancaster and Joss Birnie from Waypoint Youth Drop-in Center, located on Wallace Street, about how they support young people in Rochester. The conversation covers Waypoint’s services, upcoming events, and current initiatives, as well as how municipal funding helps make their work possible. This episode is part of an ongoing series spotlighting nonprofit organizations that receive city funding and the positive impact they have on the community.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Jeff Bisson, Executive Director of Rochester Main Street, to talk about upcoming downtown events and share an update on future programming. In the second half, Matt is joined by Jeanne Grover, founder of Vouchers for Veterans, to discuss the Harvest Market, currently in the planning stages for later this year.

In this special episode, you’ll hear newly elected Mayor Chuck Grassie’s inaugural address, delivered during the City of Rochester’s inauguration of elected officials on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. In his speech, Mayor Grassie reflects on the importance of community engagement and volunteerism and emphasizes the need to work together to move Rochester forward and better serve its residents.

In this episode, Matt talks with SHARE Fund Chairman Jerry Rainville about the mission of the SHARE Fund and the critical role volunteers play in sustaining its work. Jerry also reflects on the broader importance of volunteering and encourages listeners to make a difference in their community by getting involved.

In this episode, Matt talks with Rochester City Councilor and Chair of the Riverwalk Committee David Walker about the history of Rochester’s Riverwalk, its past successes, current initiatives, future projects, and how the Riverwalk continues to play a vital role in shaping Rochester’s future.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Economic Development Director Michael Scala and Chief Assessor Marybeth Walker to explore how Rochester uses RSA 79-E, a state program that offers tax incentives to developers who rehabilitate underutilized or blighted buildings. They discuss how the program works, the application and approval process, and its impact on downtown revitalization.

In this episode, Matt chats with Tracy Hardekopf, president of the Rochester Rotary Club, about what it means to be involved in Rotary. They discuss how to join if you’re interested in giving back to the community, and highlight some of the club’s ongoing initiatives, including Santa Sacks, communication boards at local playgrounds, bell ringing for the Salvation Army, and much more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Rochester Main Street Executive Director Jeff Bisson to discuss downtown Rochester, recent Halloween events, and everything the nonprofit has planned for the upcoming holiday season. Jeff also shares his 15+ year history with the organization, reflects on how downtown has evolved, and highlights key milestones that have shaped its growth.

In this special episode, Mayor Paul Callaghan and City Manager Katie Ambrose highlight the City of Rochester’s recent achievements, discuss ongoing challenges, and provide an overall status update for the community. The event was organized by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and hosted at the Lilac Club Casino.

Children regularly practice fire drills at school, but many families overlook planning at home, where most fires actually happen. In this episode, Maria Busuito shares crucial tips from the Rochester Fire Department on creating a family fire escape plan, practicing it together, and keeping your loved ones safe.

In this episode, hear Interim Superintendent Jared Fulgoni introduce himself to City Council on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

Fulgoni, 58, lives in Eliot, Maine. He earned a Master of Education from the University of New Hampshire, a Bachelor of Arts from Plymouth State University, and completed graduate coursework at Harvard University.

He holds administrative certifications in Massachusetts, New York, and New Hampshire, including licensure as a superintendent and principal.

Fulgoni’s recent positions include Superintendent of Schools for Regional School Unit #63 in Maine and previously for Amesbury Public Schools in Massachusetts. In these roles, he led strategic planning initiatives, introduced new pre-K and special education programs, and oversaw multimillion-dollar school construction projects.

In this episode, Matt talks with Kay Wright, Community Development Coordinator for the City of Rochester. They discuss the role of the Community Development Division within the Economic Development Department and highlight current initiatives, including updates to the CDBG Annual Action Plan. Learn how these efforts support local needs and how residents can get involved.

During the City Council Workshop on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Mayor Paul Callaghan welcomed Carlton Cooper of the Rochester Veterans Council to speak about the upcoming Memorial Day activities.

In this episode, Matt talks to Frisbie Memorial Hospital CEO Tom Bowden as he approaches his first 100 days on the job. They reflect on the past five years since HCA Healthcare acquired Frisbie, highlighting key milestones and successes. Tom shares his vision for the hospital’s future, the deepening ties between HCA and the Rochester community, and exciting updates on services like cardiology, inpatient rehab, total joint replacement, and the reopened sleep lab. They also touch on the importance of stroke and mental health awareness, and what leadership and community involvement mean to Tom as he settles into his new role.

On April 15, Rochester City Manager Katie Ambrose presented the proposed operating and capital budgets for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 at the City Council workshop meeting. The proposed budget, inclusive of City, County, and School appropriations, comes in $337,280 below the tax cap and reflects a continued commitment to strong fiscal health. The proposed budget is based on the allowable FY 2026 tax effort of $79,552,624, an increase of $3,447,725 (4.5%) over FY 2025, calculated per City Charter requirements by applying 2.95% CPI and 1.58% Net New Construction to the FY 2025 tax effort of $76,104,899.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Rad Nichols, Executive Director of COAST Bus, and Vanessa Polychronis, Community & Employee Relations Manager, to explore the vital work COAST does as a nonprofit public transit provider. They discuss the diverse range of services COAST offers, the exciting plans behind their ongoing capital campaign for a new facility, and how you can get involved, whether you're new to public transit or a seasoned rider. Tune in to learn how COAST is driving community connection and how you can support their mission.

In this special episode, listen to audio from the March 18 City Council meeting, where Mayor Callaghan introduces Thomas Bowden, the newly appointed CEO of Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Bowden stepped into the role in February 2025, bringing extensive leadership experience from his time at Steward Healthcare. Most recently, he served as president of Rockledge Regional Medical Center in Florida, where he previously held key leadership roles, including chief administrative officer and chief operating officer.

In this episode, Matt welcomes SHARE Fund chairman Jerry Rainville, who introduces LeeAnn Bruneau as the organization's new executive director. LeeAnn first joined SHARE Fund as a volunteer and later became Assistant Director under Skip Smith, who is now stepping into a new role as pastor of the Congregational Church in York, Maine. LeeAnn is eager to lead the organization and help people in need.

In this episode, Matt talks to Library Director Marie Lejeune and Patron Services Supervisor Katherine Parker from the Rochester Public Library about potential funding changes to IMLS and their impact on various services— including audiobooks, a service that is widely used in Rochester. In 2024 alone, 895 users accessed audiobooks, totaling nearly 13,000 checkouts. With digital resources like eBooks (8,202 checkouts) and magazines (2,502 checkouts) also in high demand, the conversation explores how potential funding changes could affect access to vital library services.

In this episode, Matt talks with Jerry Rainville and Ashley Truong about the SHARE Fund’s upcoming charity hockey game featuring the Bruins Alumni Association. The game takes place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the Rochester Arena, where the SHARE Fund Marvels will take the ice against former Bruins players for an afternoon of fun and fundraising. Jerry and Ashley also share updates on the organization's work, ways to get involved, and details on how attendees can support the cause through raffles, a silent auction, and food donations at the event.

On Tuesday, October 15, Interim Assessor Mary Beth Walker provided an update on the 2024 City-wide Revaluation during the City Council Workshop. Walker highlighted the ongoing work to ensure property assessments are adjusted to reflect the rising real estate market, aiming to bring assessments close to 100% of full, fair market value. She also emphasized that while property values are expected to increase, this does not necessarily mean a corresponding increase in property taxes.

In this episode, Matt sits down with author, researcher, and Rochester historian Patrick O. Connelly to delve into the rich history of Rochester, New Hampshire, from its early days as a frontier territory to its emergence as a thriving township. Connelly shares insights from his books, Rochester, New Hampshire: Territory to Township and Rochester, N.H.: In Their Own Words, which span the years 1620-1799.

In this episode, Matt talks to Tax Collector Rachel Laughner to explore the tax deeding process in the City of Rochester. They break down what happens when property taxes go unpaid, starting with tax liens and leading up to a property being taken by the City through a tax deed. Rachel explains the step-by-step process, from receiving tax bills to the final notice of impending tax deed, and offers practical advice on how to avoid losing your property.

In this episode, Matt interviews popular scenic photographer John Gisis, a Rochester native who began drone photography as a hobby and has since turned it into much more. John’s beautiful aerial shots have been included in publications and other various initiatives across New Hampshire. He also releases an annual calendar, with a portion of the proceeds supporting local charities.

In this episode, Matt talks to Clinical Coordinator Ramsay Dean about Frisbie's Partial Hospitalization Program, the stress and anxiety that often accompany the back-to-school season, and other resources for people seeking help for stress, anxiety, depression, and more.

In this episode, Matt talks to Katherine Michaud MS, OTR/L, Mental Health & Matter of Balance Coordinator, Cornerstone VNA, about her involvement with Cornerstone VNA, occupational therapy, and community mental health for people of all ages. Katherine also talks about her involvement with the Rochester Mental Health Alliance and the events and initiatives the group organizes. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Anthony Ejarque, Executive Director of the Rochester Opera House, about their hit musical revival of Fiddler on the Roof, which concludes its run on July 27. Anthony also teases upcoming productions of Beauty and the Beast, The Wizard of Oz, PorchFest 2024, and much more. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Natasha Saiyed MD about Frisbie's Wound Center, treating and preventing wounds, the most frequently seen patients, and the benefits of hyperbaric chamber treatment.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine discuss going "fine free" for overdue library materials. They also chat about the Summer Reading Program for participants of all ages.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine discuss what they're reading.

In this episode, Matt interviews Annie Azarloza, Rochester’s upcoming Superintendent of Schools. They discuss her 100-Day Plan, the Listening and Learning Tour, and the significance of public and student engagement. Annie also shares insights on the post-COVID-19 landscape for students, along with her personal interests and experiences relocating to Rochester.

In this episode, Matt talks to Mark Sullivan, Director of Finance for the City of Rochester, about the upcoming retail trash bag program for overflow trash. Expected to begin mid-summer 2024, the new bags will be required for trash that does not fit in the Waste Management-issued residential toters. Replacing the current sticker program, the bags will cost $1.75 each and the City is working with local grocery stores to carry them in packs of 5.

In this episode, Matt welcomes back SHARE Fund chairman Jerry Rainville to discuss implementing new changes to the organization, the shopper's choice program, and the upcoming Putt-4-Hunger event on Saturday, June 1. Visit www.sharefund.org to learn more.

In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Jody Walker, Technical Services Librarian, about Koha, the new open-source library system that was recently implemented. They also chat about making it easier to obtain a library card, the possibility of going “fine free”, and the ongoing expansion of digital offerings. 

In this episode, Matt talks to Chief Nursing Officer Megan Gray about strokes. Listeners will learn about recognizing the warning signs of strokes, the significance of swift action, and how to respond in the event of a stroke.

In this episode, Matt talks to Ellen Carlson from the New Hampshire Fiddle Ensemble about the history of the organization, its diverse membership, and their upcoming show at the Rochester Opera House on May 3, 2024. Ellen also shares her earliest memories of making music and discusses the artists that influenced her most. To learn more about the NH Fiddle Ensemble, visit www.nhfiddleensemble.org.

In this episode, Matt talks to three Spaulding High School Seniors who started the Compassion Closet, an initiative to provide students in need with clothing, socks and underwear, hygiene products, and more. The Compassion Closet is a private space in the High School that allows students to visit anonymously and get the things they need without shame.

In this episode, Matt talks to Bob and Lisa Griffin, members of the Rochester Historical Society and Museum, located on Hanson Street. Bob and Lisa chat about the museum and its collection, upcoming programs, and the Rochester NH History Podcast.