The New Bedford Podcast with hosts Steven Richard and Marcus Coward welcomes Andrew O’Leary, Superintendent of New Bedford Public Schools. In this episode, they dive into the challenges and opportunities facing local education, from student achievement to community impact, and discuss the future of schools in New Bedford.

Tune in for another hard-hitting episode of The New Bedford Podcast! This week, Steven Richard and Marcus Coward dive into some of the most talked-about and controversial stories shaking up the South Coast.

In this episode, Marcus Coward joins us to break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in the South Coast:

• The second fatal accident on the New Bedford-Fairhaven bridge — why is this area becoming a hot spot for tragedy?

• A drive-by shooting on I-95 in Fall River, allegedly carried out by masked men — what we know so far.

• New Bedford’s new police chief steps in — what challenges lie ahead for local law enforcement?

• No mayoral election in New Bedford this year — we explain why and dive into the impact of 4-year terms.

• Why are local elections so uncompetitive, and what would it take to change that?

• Plus, we share ideas on what kinds of businesses we’d love to see open up in New Bedford.

In this powerful episode, Steven Richard sits down with Brian Conceicao and Catherine Buckley of the Veterans Transition House (VTH) in New Bedford—a nonprofit organization that has been serving homeless and at-risk veterans for over 30 years.

Founded by Vietnam veterans in 1990, VTH has helped more than 3,000 veterans reclaim their lives through housing, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. Brian and Catherine share stories of transformation, the importance of veteran-to-veteran connection, and how VTH has become a trusted resource for those battling substance abuse, PTSD, and financial hardship.

From humble beginnings to becoming a regional leader in veteran support services, VTH lives by its mission: to provide a hand up, not a hand out.

Whether you’re a veteran, a community advocate, or someone who wants to better understand how to support those who served—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Steven Richard & Michael Silvia sit down with Manny DeBrito, the Election Commissioner for the City of New Bedford. They discuss the vital role of local elections, the importance of civic engagement, and how Manny and his team work behind the scenes to ensure fair, accessible, and transparent elections for the city’s residents.

From voter turnout challenges to election security, Manny shares valuable insights into how the election process works at the municipal level and why every vote truly matters. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a lifelong participant in local democracy, this conversation sheds light on the people and processes that protect the integrity of our elections.

In Episode 19, Steven sits down with David Daniels, the Program Director of RISE Recovery Support Center in New Bedford. RISE, which stands for Recovery in a Supportive Environment, is a peer-led recovery center built on compassion, connection, and community.

David shares how RISE approaches recovery through an “all pathways” model—supporting every individual’s unique journey by meeting them exactly where they’re at. Their mission is rooted in creating a judgment-free, welcoming space where every voice matters, every person is valued, and each peer plays a vital role in helping others find freedom through recovery.

This powerful conversation highlights the strength of peer support, the impact of shared experiences, and the hope that grows when people lock arms and rise together.

In this episode of The New Bedford Podcast, host Steven Richard sits down with Helena DaSilva Hughes, President of the Immigrants Assistance Center in New Bedford. Helena shares the vital role the center plays in supporting and empowering immigrant families across the South Coast. From providing legal and social services to advocating for policy change, we explore how the IAC impacts the lives of thousands. We also dive into the current political climate surrounding immigration, the realities of ICE deportations, and how national policies affect local communities. This is a powerful and timely conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this powerful episode of The New Bedford Podcast, guest hosts Erica Richard and Keilianys Justiniano sit down with Dr. Michelle Houde and Kristin Batstone of The Women’s Center. In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, they dive deep into the essential work the center does to support survivors, educate the community, and advocate for change.

Together, they discuss the resources available through The Women’s Center, the importance of creating safe spaces, and how the community can come together to raise awareness and foster healing. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the realities many face—and the hope that support and education can bring.