Legislative Lens: People and Policy With Rep. Michelle L. Badger

Episode 16: To the Moon and Back: Advocacy, and Support for Families

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger sits down with Theresa Harmon, Founder and Executive Director of To the Moon and Back, to discuss the impact of prenatal opioid exposure on children and families across Massachusetts. Together, they explore what perinatal opioid exposure is, common misconceptions about children affected by substance exposure in utero, and the challenges families face when navigating healthcare, educational, and support systems. Theresa shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind founding To the Moon and Back, and the organization's innovative programs that provide advocacy, education, resources, and community support to families throughout the Commonwealth. The conversation also highlights the importance of early intervention services and discusses H.5296, legislation filed by Representatives Michelle Badger and Kathy LaNatra to expand access to early intervention services for children with prenatal opioid exposure. Theresa and Michelle examine how partnerships between nonprofit organizations, local communities, and state government can improve outcomes for children and strengthen support systems for families. This episode offers an important look at how compassion, evidence-based support, and early investment in children can create lasting positive impacts for families and communities across Massachusetts. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email community@thelocalseen.media to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media [https://www.thelocalseen.media/]

Episode 15: Tourism – Jobs, Small Business & Local Impact

In Episode 15 of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, State Representative Michelle Badger takes a deep dive into tourism—one of the most important drivers of Plymouth's economy. Joined by Representative Sean Garballey, Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development, and Keiko Orrall, President and CEO of See Plymouth, this episode explores how policy, partnerships, and local leadership come together to support tourism across the Commonwealth. From Plymouth's historic roots to its growing arts, culture, and eco-tourism scene, the conversation highlights how tourism fuels small businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens community identity. The episode also looks ahead to major opportunities like the nation's 250th anniversary and what it will take to keep Massachusetts competitive in a changing travel landscape. Whether you're interested in public policy, local economic development, or what makes destinations like Plymouth thrive, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email community@thelocalseen.media to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media [https://www.thelocalseen.media/]

Episode 14: Let's Talk Celiac Disease: Awareness, Legislation, and Advocacy

In this episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy with Rep. Badget, we talk with Vanessa Weisbrod of the Celiac Disease Foundation to discuss celiac disease—what it is, how it's diagnosed, and the challenges individuals and families face living with the disease. The conversation highlights the importance of early detection, increased awareness, and access to safe food, particularly in school settings. They also discuss two pieces of legislation that State Rep. Michelle Badger and Senator Joan Lovely filed aimed at improving outcomes for those with celiac disease: H.5012/S.2927, An Act relative to students accessing food and nutritional information, and H.5013/S.2928. The episode emphasizes the role of advocacy, encourages community involvement, and highlights opportunities like Celiac Kids Advocacy Day on May 13 from 1-3PM at the Massachusetts State House, for residents to engage and support meaningful change for the Community. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email community@thelocalseen.media to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media [https://www.thelocalseen.media/]

Episode 13: Women Shaping Policy and Community from Beacon Hill to Plymouth

In this special Women's History Month episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy, we explore how women's leadership is shaping policy and strengthening communities across Massachusetts — from Beacon Hill to Plymouth County. In the first half of the episode, Representative Christine Barber joins the podcast to discuss the role and impact of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, which is celebrating 50 years of existence. They break down what a legislative caucus is, why caucuses matter, and how the Caucus has helped advance policies that support women and families across the Commonwealth. In the second half, Michelle Davidson, Chair of the Plymouth County Commission on the Status of Women, shares how advocacy happens at the local level. She discusses the Commission's mission, its role in elevating the voices of women and girls across the county, and how community engagement informs broader policy conversations. You can find out more about the work of the Commission at https://www.plymouthcountywomen.org [https://www.plymouthcountywomen.org/] and connect with them at PlymouthCSW@mass.gov. Together, this episode highlights the power of collaboration, representation, and civic engagement in advancing equity and opportunity for women today — while honoring the legacy of those who paved the way. Tune in to learn how state and local leaders work hand in hand to make a difference for Women. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email community@thelocalseen.media to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media [https://www.thelocalseen.media/]

Episode 12: Building Resilience: Innovating for Plymouth's Climate Future

This episode of Legislative Lens: People and Policy focuses on how Plymouth is preparing for the impacts of climate change and building a more resilient future. Plymouth's Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Planner, Mike Cahill, and State Representative Kathy LaNatra, House Chair of the Coastal Caucus, join the conversation to discuss local climate challenges, regional collaboration, and legislative efforts supporting coastal communities. In the second half, Charlie Sidoti, Executive Director of InnSure, joins the conversation to share details about an innovative pilot program in Plymouth exploring how insurance solutions can better support residents and businesses. Tune in to learn how local and state partners are working together to protect Plymouth's people, infrastructure, and economy in a changing climate. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email community@thelocalseen.media to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.media [https://www.thelocalseen.media/]