When you're struggling or living alone, it can mean the world for someone to ask if you're okay. Seniors, people with disabilities or medical problems, and anyone else who is vulnerable in Norfolk County have access to a free program that provides frequent wellness checks when others may not be able to do so. Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott and NCSO Officer Cheryl Bambery are on the show this week to talk with Nichole about how the program works, why it matters, and how it's already being lauded for helping people in their time of crisis.

A herd of magical unicorns is waiting for you to come say hello in Jefferson! The Farm at SummitWynds is holding its annual Unicorn Festival July 25, 26, and 27. It promises to be a memorable time with food, pony rides, a bouncy house, live music, and much more on the 32-acre farm in Central Massachusetts. Owner Amy Parker and her daughter, Amanda Morse, share all the details about this enchanting event with Nichole on this week's show.

There's nothing quite like a tasty, nutritious meal full of fresh ingredients, especially if they're locally sourced. For almost two decades, the people behind the Island Grown Initiative have been working to build a local food system, helping the island's year-round residents ensure they always have healthy food on the table while teaching young people how to continue the work. Noli Taylor, Co-Executive Director of Island Grown Initiative, joins Nichole on the the show this week to tell their story.

If you've ever applied for federal student aid to go to college or university, you've likely heard of Pell Grants. Students from working-class families around the country often rely on these federal grants to fill out their financial aid. However, as part of the new spending plan just passed by Congress, some big changes could be coming for those grants that are worrying local higher education officials. Nate Mackinnon, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges, talks with Nichole about the impact this could have on the state's community colleges and overall affordability for those who want to expand their education.

Tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents are officially unemployed, and trying to find a job isn't easy these days. Often, when you're switching careers, it can be difficult to know where to start, or what resources are available for you. ABCD and MassHire are teaming up to open a brand new career center in Roxbury's Nubian Square! ABCD's President and CEO, Sharon Scott-Chandler, returns to the show to talk about all it has to offer.

While being a mom can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be exhausting mentally, physically, and emotionally, and sometimes you just want to connect with other mothers to get a boost. Boston Moms, a spinoff of Wicked Good Mom Media, says it's got just the thing for local moms this summer: "Wicked Good Playdates" at shopping centers around Greater Boston. Meghan Block, Owner of Wicked Good Mom Media, joins Nichole this week to discuss the importance of connection for mothers, no matter the age, and share details about the upcoming events.

Independence Day is on the horizon, and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge is holding a special celebration of America through the arts! "We Hold These Truths" will feature music, history, food, fun, and much more for people of all ages. Rockwell's known for his iconic paintings and drawings that highlight the experiences of mid-century America, which makes it a fitting place to celebrate our independence. Kathryn Potts, the museum's Chief Learning and Engagement Officer, joins the show this week to share the details of the upcoming event and all the campus has to offer.

We're a few weeks into hurricane season. Have you gone over what's in your "go bag", or double checked your evacuation zone? Not quite sure where to begin to make sure you're prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at us? Dawn Brantley, the Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about what you should focus on for your preps, and how cuts in federal funding for disaster response could impact our region.

With all the damage we've seen from massive storms that have hit the US in recent years, including some devastating flooding right here in Massachusetts, there are a lot of questions about who, exactly, should get flood insurance. Is it worth it? Bill Martin, CEO of Plymouth Rock Home Assurance, talks with Nichole about the pros and cons, and what you should consider if you're thinking about a policy.