In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore welcomes veteran broadcasters Hank Stolz and Ben White of the Radio Worcester Network and Talk of the Commonwealth for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of local media, the rise of digital platforms, and the challenges of delivering trustworthy information in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

Drawing on decades of experience in Central Massachusetts media, Hank and Ben discuss how local journalism has changed, the decline of traditional newsrooms, and the growing influence of podcasts, streaming, social media, and algorithms on the way people consume information. The conversation examines the impact of echo chambers, misinformation, media literacy, and the challenges of maintaining public trust in an era where outrage often drives engagement.

Topics include:

-The transformation of local radio and journalism

-The growth of podcasting and online streaming

-How social media algorithms shape public opinion

-The importance of media literacy and civic education

-The role of local news in strengthening communities

-Why context and facts matter more than ever

This episode offers an insightful look at the future of news, public discourse, and how communities can stay informed in a rapidly changing media environment.

In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with the leadership team from CASA Project Worcester County — Executive Director Julie Bowditch and Training & Advocate Supervisor Krissie Shaw — to discuss the critical role Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) play in the lives of children involved in the juvenile court and foster care systems.

The conversation explores how CASA volunteers advocate for vulnerable children facing abuse, neglect, trauma, and instability, while working alongside judges, social workers, schools, and families to help children achieve permanency and stability. Julie and Chrissy explain the rigorous volunteer training process, the emotional challenges advocates face, and the profound impact volunteers can have on a child’s future.

Senator Moore and his guests also discuss:

-The growing need for CASA volunteers in Worcester County -The realities of the juvenile court system and foster care

-Trauma-informed advocacy and child welfare challenges

-The importance of cultural competency and community representation

-The high volume of child welfare cases in Central Massachusetts

-Success stories surrounding adoption and permanency for children

This episode offers a heartfelt look into the people working every day to support some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable children — and how ordinary citizens can make an extraordinary difference through volunteer advocacy.

This is more than politics. It’s about giving children a voice when they need it most.

In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Governor’s Councilor Paul DePalo to discuss the important — and often misunderstood — role of the Massachusetts Governor’s Council.

Representing District 7 across Central Massachusetts, Councilor DePalo explains how the Governor’s Council advises and consents on judicial appointments, parole board members, pardons, commutations, and other key positions that impact the justice system across the Commonwealth.

The conversation provides viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at how judges are nominated and confirmed, what qualities matter most in judicial appointments, and how the system balances public safety, fairness, and accountability. Senator Moore and Councilor DePalo also discuss:

-The judicial nomination and vetting process

-The role of the Governor’s Council in confirming judges and parole board members

-Public concerns around bail, dangerousness hearings, and parole decisions

-Victims’ rights and participation in parole hearings

-Challenges facing juvenile courts and the importance of judicial temperament

-CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and supporting vulnerable children in the court system

The episode offers an informative look at one of Massachusetts government’s lesser-known constitutional bodies and highlights how decisions made within the justice system can have long-lasting impacts on families, communities, and public safety.

From Beacon Hill to the courtroom, More Than Politics brings viewers deeper conversations about the issues and institutions shaping Massachusetts.