Is Rhode Island ready for a reset? In this exclusive interview, Republican gubernatorial candidate Aaron Guckian outlines his bold "Rhode Island Works Smarter" strategy, a plan designed to cut through the red tape, lower the cost of living, and revitalize the Ocean State's economy.

This video features an in-depth conversation with Deana from the Rhode Island Wave newspaper, where Aaron shares his journey from a local public school teacher and banker to a leader in state advocacy. You'll get a firsthand look at his five-pillar platform, which focuses on making the state affordable, rebuilding the education system, and fixing a broken healthcare model. Aaron explains how leveraging modern technology and empowering state workers can lead to massive savings—savings he plans to pass directly back to working families by reducing taxes and eliminating unnecessary fees.

Whether you are a concerned parent, a business owner, or a voter looking for change, this interview provides critical insights into how Aaron plans to hold state government accountable and build a pipeline for future generations to stay and thrive in Rhode Island.

Learn more about Aaron's campaign and get involved:

Visit the website: https://www.aaronforri.com/

Volunteer today: https://www.aaronforri.com/

Follow us for more updates:

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Is the current political climate in the Ocean State stifling economic growth? In this exclusive spotlight interview, David Levesque, owner of Brewed Awakenings and founder of The League of Rhode Island Businesses (LORIB), discusses the critical need for pro-business reform in the RI Statehouse. If you are a Rhode Island business owner or a concerned citizen tired of high taxes and complex regulations, this conversation highlights a new path forward for common-sense legislation.

ABOUT THIS VIDEO

For over 29 years, David Levesque has operated in the local economy, but recent legislative trends have prompted him to take action. In this video, he sits down with the Rhode Island Wave to explain the mission behind The League of Rhode Island Businesses. The organization was formed to address the lack of a "fair shake" for businesses at the state level, specifically combating unconstitutional bills and an exploding state budget that has grown from $8 billion to over $14 billion in just a few years.

David explains that LORIB is a strictly nonpartisan organization. Whether a politician is a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Libertarian, the League’s priority is supporting candidates who uphold the Constitution and advocate for lower taxes and less regulation. By forming political action committees (PACs), the League aims to raise funds to primary ineffective incumbents and endorse candidates who are truly dedicated to making Rhode Island a business-friendly state. Watch to learn how this movement is gathering momentum and how it plans to hold legislators accountable.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Are you ready to see real change in Rhode Island’s economy? Whether you can donate or simply want to stay informed, your involvement matters. Visit the website to sign up for the monthly newsletter, learn about endorsed candidates, or contribute to the cause.

🔗 Visit the website: https://theleagueofribusinesses.com/

Discover how the Women's Fund of Rhode Island is driving systemic change to close the gender wage, wealth, and power gaps in our state. In this "On the Spot" interview, CEO Kelly Nevins reveals the organization's powerful mission to invest in women and girls through research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

If you are looking to understand the landscape of gender equity in Rhode Island or want to get involved in community advocacy, this interview offers essential insights into how policy changes benefit everyone—not just women.

IN THIS VIDEO

In this comprehensive discussion with the Rhode Island Wave, Kelly Nevins breaks down exactly what the Women's Fund of Rhode Island (WFRI) does and how it impacts the local community. You will learn about their multi-faceted approach to achieving equity, which includes rigorous research into the economic status of women and direct grant-making to partner organizations.

Kelly highlights several key initiatives, including the successful expansion of paid family leave—a policy that supports men, women, and adoptive parents alike. The interview also explores the Women's Policy Institute, a nine-month training program designed to teach community members how to draft legislation, find sponsors, and testify at the statehouse.

VOLUNTEERING AND INCLUSIVITY

A major theme of the conversation is inclusivity. Kelly debunks the myth that feminism is exclusionary, explaining how men are vital partners in their mission. She introduces PACT (Partners Advancing Change Together), a committee of men dedicated to leveling the playing field, and invites everyone to join their hybrid Feminist Activist Book Club.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026

As the organization approaches its 25th anniversary in 2026, Kelly shares exciting plans for the future. This includes the launch of the first Rhode Island Girls Coalition, a collaborative effort focused on addressing youth mental health and fostering healthy relationships among young girls in the state.

GET INVOLVED TODAY

Are you ready to help create a more equitable Rhode Island? Whether you are interested in policy training, joining a committee, or participating in the book club, there is a place for you at the Women's Fund.

Visit the Women's Fund of Rhode Island website to learn more about their programs and volunteer opportunities: https://wfri.org/

In this poignant episode of the Rhode Island Wave's "On the Spot" interview series, Publisher Deana Grenier sits down with former RI State Representative and Associate Editor Joanne Giannini. Together, they tackle the difficult headlines that have recently shaken the Providence community while taking time to celebrate the local heroes making a difference in the Ocean State. If you want to stay informed on local RI politics, community safety, and the "What's In, What's Out" list for January, this conversation is a must-watch.

*** INSIDE THIS EPISODE ***

The discussion centers heavily on the aftermath of the tragic shooting at Brown University. Joanne Giannini offers her candid political perspective on the potential security failures involved and the subsequent federal investigation regarding the Jeannie Clery Campus Safety Act. The pair discusses the critical need for better campus safety protocols and the vital role of law enforcement and medical teams during crises. They also address a modern problem: the dangers of social media vigilantism, where innocent people were wrongly identified during the manhunt, and the impact this has on the community's mental health.

However, the episode is also filled with hope and community spirit. Deana and Joanne highlight the "What's In" for the month, giving a special spotlight to "John," the homeless hero who played a pivotal role in identifying the suspect. They also praise the Community Angels for their incredible work providing Christmas gifts to over 3,000 children and discuss the League of Rhode Island Business's new campaign to support business-friendly political candidates.

*** SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE LOCAL INSIGHTS ***

Don't miss out on the latest news, interviews, and community stories from Rhode Island. Subscribe to our channel and visit our website to read the full January edition of "What's In, What's Out."

Visit our website: https://therhodeislandwave.com/

Are you looking for a way to enrich your winter months with deep literary discussion and community connection? In this exclusive spotlight interview, we dive into the Bristol Book Fest 2026, a celebrated humanities event in Rhode Island designed to inspire readers and deepen the understanding of significant works of literature. Join Dina from the Rhode Island Wave as she sits down with organizers Alan Clark and Steven Calvert to discuss this year's exciting program centered around Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway."

WHAT THIS VIDEO COVERS

In this engaging conversation, Alan and Steven share the fascinating history of the Bristol Book Fest and how it has grown from a small group reading "The Odyssey" to a major community event. You will learn about the unique structure of the festival, which involves a six-week immersive seminar series starting in January at the Rogers Free Library, culminating in a grand weekend event in April featuring renowned guest speakers like Anne Fernald and Merve Emre.

The organizers also discuss the importance of "slow reading" and how the festival breaks down complex texts—like previous selections "Moby Dick" and "Fahrenheit 451"—into manageable, enriching weekly discussions. Discover the full lineup of activities planned for 2026, including film screenings of "The Hours," dramatic performances, and poetry slams that bring the text to life. Whether you are a literature expert or just looking to get out of the house this winter, this video explains why this festival is the perfect intellectual escape.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

Spaces for the seminar sessions are limited and have filled up quickly in previous years. If you want to be part of this "rolling symposium" of thoughtful and inquisitive people, make sure to secure your spot.

Register for the event and get the full schedule here:

https://www.bristolbookfest.com/

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and guest backgrounds

04:20 The mission of the Bristol Book Fest

06:26 How the festival breaks down complex literature

08:06 This year's selection: "Mrs. Dalloway"

11:06 The grand finale event and guest speakers

12:39 How to register and participate

Have you ever felt like you checked all the "right" boxes in life—career, marriage, home—only to realize you lost yourself in the process? You are not alone. In this inspiring episode of the Rhode Island Wave's "On the Spot" interview series, host Deana sits down with Sarah Elizabeth, a CPA turned author and mentor who is helping women rewrite their life stories.

This video explores Sarah’s profound personal journey documented in her memoir, "When the White Picket Fence is No Longer Enough." Sarah opens up about the challenges of navigating a crumbling marriage and parenting a child with autism while maintaining a high-pressure career. She reveals how a simple 21-day journaling process unlocked a path to healing and self-discovery.

*** WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS INTERVIEW ***

Sarah shares her unique approach to narrative therapy and how writing can be a powerful tool for mental health. You will discover why she believes healing is like doing laundry—a continuous cycle rather than a final destination. The conversation also covers her upcoming workshops designed for women over 40, including "Redefining the Mature Woman," which combines Pilates, stretching, and journaling to build a supportive tribe of like-minded individuals.

Sarah also discusses her free virtual class, "The Threshold," designed to help you shed the weight of the past year (the Year of the Snake) and step into 2026 (the Year of the Fire Horse) with intention and power. Whether you are looking to get unstuck, find a community, or simply start a journaling practice, this interview provides the inspiration you need to take back control of your narrative.

If you are ready to peel back the layers and find your authentic self, visit Sarah’s website to sign up for her newsletter or register for an upcoming workshop.

*** CONNECT WITH SARAH ELIZABETH ***

Website: https://www.sarahelizabeth.icu/

Are you tired of setting New Year's resolutions that fizzle out after two weeks? If you want to bridge the gap between desire and action, this interview with certified hypnotherapist and change strategist Suzi Nance is a must-watch. Discover how to reprogram your subconscious mind to make your health and wellness goals stick for good.

ABOUT THIS VIDEO

In this episode of the Rhode Island Wave Spotlight Interview series, host Deana sits down with Suzi Nance to discuss her fascinating journey from real estate to hypnotherapy. After overcoming a debilitating autoimmune issue through mind-body connection and dietary changes, Suzi found her true passion in helping others transform their lives.

Suzi explains the science behind why we self-sabotage—breaking down the conflict between our conscious critical thinking and our powerful subconscious "GPS." You will learn why willpower often fails and how hypnotherapy can help you rewrite the internal scripts that keep you stuck.

Topics covered include:

Suzi’s personal story of healing and career transition.

How to conquer the "desire vs. action" gap.

The role of the subconscious mind in habit formation.

Practical tips for sustainable weight loss and stress management.

Details on Suzi’s upcoming "Big Life Audit & Edit" community program for 2026.

FREE GIFT & CONNECT

Ready to bust stress and rewire your habits? Suzi is offering a special gift for our viewers!

Get your FREE Stress Busters Ebook + Hypnosis Recording:

Email Suzi with the subject line "Rhode Island Wave" to receive your free gifts.

Work with Suzi Nance:

Visit her website to book a session, join a retreat, or sign up for hypnotherapy certification training in March.

🔗 http://suzinance.com

Follow Rhode Island Wave:

Stay tuned for more Spotlight Interviews coming soon

Did you know that one in three youth lack a supportive adult in their lives? In this Rhode Island Wave "On the Spot" interview, host Deana speaks with Jeanine Achin from Mentor Rhode Island and Ryan McGowan from Laid Back Fitness about the life-changing power of mentorship. Discover how dedicating just one hour a week can transform a child's future, improve academic success, and support mental health.

This video covers the incredible work Mentor Rhode Island is doing across the state, from one-on-one mentoring to their juvenile justice initiative. You’ll also hear about the Frozen Clam Obstaplunge, a unique New Year's Day fundraiser at Goddard Park Beach that combines physical challenges with community support. Whether you’re interested in becoming a mentor, participating in an obstacle course, or simply learning more about youth development, this interview is packed with inspiring stories and actionable ways to get involved.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS VIDEO

About Mentor Rhode Island: Learn about their mission to ensure every youth has a supportive adult, with over 300 youth currently involved in mentoring programs.

The Impact of Mentoring: Discover powerful statistics, such as how 78% of mentored youth report better academic success and 58% see improvements in mental health.

Types of Mentoring Programs: Explore the variety of ways to get involved, including one-on-one, community-based, group, and peer mentoring.

Juvenile Justice Initiative: Understand how Mentor RI helps court-involved youth complete sanctions and receive job training to stay out of the system.

Frozen Clam Obstaplunge: Get the details on this exciting New Year's Day fundraiser featuring a quarter-mile obstacle course suitable for all ages.

ABOUT THE FROZEN CLAM OBSTAPLUNGE

Ryan McGowan, a former mentor and owner of Laid Back Fitness, shares the history of the Frozen Clam Obstaplunge. Held annually on January 1st, this event challenges participants with natural movement obstacles on the sand, with an optional plunge into the water at the end. It serves as a symbolic representation of overcoming obstacles—much like the youth in the mentoring program do every day. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships go directly towards funding Mentor Rhode Island’s vital programs.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

If you are inspired to make a difference, consider signing up to be a mentor or participating in the next fundraising event. It only takes about an hour a week to change the trajectory of a child's life.

Visit the Mentor Rhode Island website at mentoringri.org to fill out an inquiry form or learn more about their programs. You can also look for their event page on Facebook for the latest updates on the Obstaplunge. https://www.facebook.com/share/1ACgSmeg8r/

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