In this episode, host Cathy Barry talks with Kathy Huckins, founder of Gardener’s Salon, about gardening, community agriculture, and building a deeper connection to the land. Kathy shares her experience as former farm manager at Stearns Farm in Framingham and explains how her seasonal gardening course helps people learn to grow food while understanding soil, water, insects, and the rhythms of nature.

The conversation explores sustainable gardening practices, no-till growing, composting, and the importance of curiosity in the garden. Kathy also discusses the philosophy behind Gardener’s Salon, where participants gather to share ideas, seasonal challenges, and a broader understanding of how gardening connects to community and environmental stewardship.

Whether you’re a longtime gardener or just getting started, this episode offers thoughtful insights into growing food, caring for the soil, and learning through the seasons.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry sits down with Evan Walsh and Leighah Beausoleil, editors at The Community Advocate, to talk about the important role local journalism plays in keeping communities informed and connected. They discuss covering local news, telling community stories, and the challenges and rewards of reporting on the issues that matter most to residents.

The conversation also explores how local newspapers continue to evolve in a changing media landscape while maintaining their commitment to civic engagement, transparency, and community connection.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry welcomes Natalie Ferjulian of Ferjulian Farm in Hudson, Massachusetts, to talk about the arrival of spring and the beauty of tulip season. Natalie shares how the farm introduced tulip growing during the pandemic and how it has grown into a popular seasonal experience for the community.

They discuss what it takes to plant and manage hundreds of thousands of tulip bulbs, how weather impacts the season, and the careful planning behind creating a vibrant, pick-your-own flower field. The conversation also touches on the evolution of family farming, from crop selection to creating new experiences like tulip picking to keep farms sustainable and engaging for visitors.

Cathy and Natalie also highlight the joy that comes from visiting the farm in spring—walking through fields of color, picking flowers, and connecting with the land after a long New England winter.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry talks with Matt Blanchard, a freshman at UMass Amherst Stockbridge School of Agriculture and a farmer at Nourse Farm. Matt shares his experience balancing college coursework with hands-on farm work and what drew him to agriculture at a young age. They discuss the importance of agricultural education, learning in the field, and how young farmers are shaping the future of local food and farming.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry sits down with Karen Henderson and Kelley Petralia to discuss the role of civic engagement and local media in the Westborough community. They explore how local television, public access media, and community involvement help keep residents informed, connected, and engaged in local decision-making. The conversation highlights why local voices matter and how strong community media supports transparency, participation, and a healthy civic life.

In this episode, Cathy Barry sits down with Amy Snyder, master pie baker and pastry chef, for a conversation all about pies. Amy shares her approach to pie baking, from creating a flaky crust to choosing the best seasonal fillings. They talk about technique, creativity, and the role pies play in family traditions and community gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or simply love a good slice of pie, this episode offers insight and inspiration from a true pie expert.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry talks with Leanne Cowley about sustainability in the kitchen and how to adapt recipes as the seasons change. Leanne shares her perspective on reducing food waste, cooking with what’s locally available, and finding creative ways to make the most of seasonal ingredients. Together, they explore how small changes in our cooking habits can lead to a more sustainable lifestyle—and some of the fun (and tasty) challenges that come with eating seasonally.

In this episode, host Cathy Barry sits down with Michele Ricard to talk about living a plant-based lifestyle. Michele shares her journey toward plant-based eating, what inspired her to make the change, and how it’s impacted her health and daily life. Together, they discuss practical ways to incorporate more plant-based meals, the importance of sourcing local produce, and how mindful food choices can strengthen both personal well-being and community health.