The Right Side of the Rivers
Pittsburgh perspectives on public issues.
About the show
The Right Side of the Rivers is where Pittsburgh’s history and values meet today’s challenges. This show takes on public issues from a distinctly Pittsburgh point of view — offering commonsense conversations, right-of-center perspectives, and thoughtful discussions on the people, policies, and principles shaping Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Pennsylvania.
Whether it’s local government, community priorities, or statewide debates, The Right Side of the Rivers brings clarity, balance, and a grounded approach to the issues that matter to our city and our future.
The Right Side of the Rivers on social media
Episodes
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Bob Howard - Breakdown of Election 2025
November 6th, 2025 | 55 mins 45 secs
bob howard, election 2025, election results, gop turnout, political analysis
Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer sit down with political analyst Bob Howard to break down the results of the 2025 election and examine what went wrong for Republicans across Allegheny County. From turnout gaps to messaging missteps, they share lessons learned and chart a path forward for future victories.
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Jason Richey - RCAC Chair
October 23rd, 2025 | 1 hr 6 mins
county council, election 2025, grassroots, jason richey, rcac
Republican Committee of Allegheny County (RCAC) Chairman Jason Richey joins the show to discuss the GOP’s growing momentum, regional committee expansion, and what’s at stake in the 2025 election. From grassroots organizing to flipping County Council, Jason shares how Republicans are building a path to victory across Allegheny County.
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Len Iorio & Michael Dell - Candidates for County Council
October 9th, 2025 | 56 mins 19 secs
candidate, county council, election 2025, len iorio, michael dell
County Council candidates Len Iorio (District 12) and Michael Dell (District 8) join the show to talk about restoring fiscal discipline and pushing back against Allegheny County’s 36% property tax hike. With backgrounds in public service and finance, they share their plans to protect taxpayers, stop wasteful spending, and bring accountability back to county government.
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Todd McCollum & Patrick Provins - Candidates for County Council
September 25th, 2025 | 53 mins 20 secs
candidate, county council, election 2025, patrick provins, todd mccollum
In this episode, Allegheny County Council candidates Todd McCollum (District 13) and Patrick Provins (District 9) share their visions for restoring accountability, public safety, and regional growth. Joined by guest co-host Eileen Cunningham, they discuss the challenges facing their communities and how strong local leadership can bring real change to Allegheny County.
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Brian Weismantle - Candidate for County Sheriff
September 11th, 2025 | 48 mins 21 secs
brian weismantle, candidate, election 2025, sheriff
Sheriff candidate Brian Weismantle joins Todd and Russell to discuss law enforcement integrity, jail reform, and the role of the Sheriff’s Office in restoring public safety across Allegheny County. The episode also addresses breaking national news and reflects on political violence, accountability, and what it means to lead with courage and service.
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Tracy Larger - Candidate for City Council
August 28th, 2025 | 55 mins 43 secs
candidate, city council, election 2025, tracy larger
District 4 City Council candidate Tracy Larger joins The Right Side of the Rivers to talk about her campaign, Pittsburgh’s public safety challenges, and the need for community-driven leadership. From controversial zoning proposals to overlooked neighborhood projects, this episode spotlights the disconnect between city hall and the residents they serve.
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Joe Pegher
August 14th, 2025 | 58 mins 45 secs
clairton explosion, district 5, greenfield, shotspotter, steeltown legacy
In Episode 3 of The Right Side of the Rivers, Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Greenfield resident Joe Pegher to discuss Pittsburgh’s industrial past, public safety concerns, and local leadership. The conversation covers everything from the Clairton US Steel explosion to neighborhood traffic issues and the future of Council District 5.
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Eileen Cunningham
July 31st, 2025 | 57 mins 56 secs
eileen cunningham, salena zito
Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer sit down with Eileen Cunningham to talk city budget concerns, voter outreach, and local leadership. From campaign trail insights to Pittsburgh’s fiscal challenges, this episode spotlights the power of grassroots engagement and common-sense solutions.
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Introduction
July 21st, 2025 | 38 mins 35 secs
introduction
In this inaugural episode, Todd McCollum and Russell Dreyer reflect on their leadership journey, and discuss the importance of grassroots involvement, local elections, and the future of politics in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County.