web02.fireside.fm Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:11:05 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The Right Side of the Rivers - Episodes Tagged with “Grassroots Organizing” https://therightsideoftherivers.fireside.fm/tags/grassroots%20organizing Thu, 21 May 2026 10:00:00 -0400 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. en-us episodic Pittsburgh perspectives on public issues. Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services 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. no Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services missy@sidekickmediaservices.com Noah Formica - The Turning Point for Gen Z Conservatism, Grassroots Activism & Pennsylvania Politics https://therightsideoftherivers.fireside.fm/noah-formica-the-turning-point-for-genz-conservatism-grassroots-activism-pennsylvania-politics af54e44b-4b54-4bef-ae23-defba6cb8903 Thu, 21 May 2026 10:00:00 -0400 Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services full Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services Todd McCollum and Bob Crankovic sit down with Noah Formica to discuss grassroots organizing, voter registration, Pennsylvania primary election results, and the future of conservative activism in Western Pennsylvania. The conversation also explores local political races, challenges facing Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, and why engaging independent and younger voters will be critical heading into the next election cycle. 1:02:31 no <p>Todd McCollum is joined by special co-host Bob Crankovic as they welcome Noah Formica for a wide-ranging discussion on grassroots organizing, voter registration, and the future of the conservative movement in Pennsylvania. Noah shares how he became involved in politics at a young age, his work with Turning Point Action, and his efforts to energize younger voters and expand Republican outreach across the Commonwealth.</p> <p>The conversation also dives into the aftermath of Pennsylvania’s primary election, including victories by local Republican candidates and the growing momentum behind statewide candidates like Stacy Garrity and Jason Richey. Todd, Bob, and Noah discuss the importance of ballot chasing, connecting with independent voters, and rebuilding Republican infrastructure in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh.</p> <p>Additional topics include the challenges facing small businesses under progressive local policies, concerns over population decline and economic competitiveness in Pittsburgh, and the role of grassroots activism in shaping the future of Pennsylvania politics. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the upcoming Foundry Dinner, reflections on party unity, and a lighthearted discussion about the return of Heinz glass ketchup bottles. Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and Noah Formica.</p> the right side of the rivers, pittsburgh politics, allegheny county politics, pittsburgh republican committee, western pennsylvania politics, noah formica, turning point action, grassroots activism, voter registration, republican outreach, pennsylvania elections, conservative movement, pittsburgh news, local government, pennsylvania politics, republican candidates, independent voters, political podcast, public policy, civic engagement Todd McCollum is joined by special co-host Bob Crankovic as they welcome Noah Formica for a wide-ranging discussion on grassroots organizing, voter registration, and the future of the conservative movement in Pennsylvania. Noah shares how he became involved in politics at a young age, his work with Turning Point Action, and his efforts to energize younger voters and expand Republican outreach across the Commonwealth.

The conversation also dives into the aftermath of Pennsylvania’s primary election, including victories by local Republican candidates and the growing momentum behind statewide candidates like Stacy Garrity and Jason Richey. Todd, Bob, and Noah discuss the importance of ballot chasing, connecting with independent voters, and rebuilding Republican infrastructure in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh.

Additional topics include the challenges facing small businesses under progressive local policies, concerns over population decline and economic competitiveness in Pittsburgh, and the role of grassroots activism in shaping the future of Pennsylvania politics. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the upcoming Foundry Dinner, reflections on party unity, and a lighthearted discussion about the return of Heinz glass ketchup bottles.

Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and Noah Formica.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

  • Turning Point Action — Learn more about Turning Point Action.
  • South Park Republican Committee — Learn more about the South Park Republican Committee. Find out how you can get involved locally.
  • Foundry Dinner — Join the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee at the inaugural Foundry Dinner - an unforgettable night of leadership, inspiration, and impact overlooking Pittsburgh's skyline from Mt. Washington.
]]> Todd McCollum is joined by special co-host Bob Crankovic as they welcome Noah Formica for a wide-ranging discussion on grassroots organizing, voter registration, and the future of the conservative movement in Pennsylvania. Noah shares how he became involved in politics at a young age, his work with Turning Point Action, and his efforts to energize younger voters and expand Republican outreach across the Commonwealth.

The conversation also dives into the aftermath of Pennsylvania’s primary election, including victories by local Republican candidates and the growing momentum behind statewide candidates like Stacy Garrity and Jason Richey. Todd, Bob, and Noah discuss the importance of ballot chasing, connecting with independent voters, and rebuilding Republican infrastructure in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh.

Additional topics include the challenges facing small businesses under progressive local policies, concerns over population decline and economic competitiveness in Pittsburgh, and the role of grassroots activism in shaping the future of Pennsylvania politics. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the upcoming Foundry Dinner, reflections on party unity, and a lighthearted discussion about the return of Heinz glass ketchup bottles.

Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and Noah Formica.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

  • Turning Point Action — Learn more about Turning Point Action.
  • South Park Republican Committee — Learn more about the South Park Republican Committee. Find out how you can get involved locally.
  • Foundry Dinner — Join the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee at the inaugural Foundry Dinner - an unforgettable night of leadership, inspiration, and impact overlooking Pittsburgh's skyline from Mt. Washington.
]]> Kimberly Stern - Candidate for State Committee https://therightsideoftherivers.fireside.fm/kimberly-stern-candidate-for-state-committee b0d17fb8-cd5d-407a-b924-73c7b10fd726 Thu, 07 May 2026 10:00:00 -0400 Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services full Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services Kimberly Stern joins The Right Side of the Rivers to discuss her campaign for Pennsylvania State Committee, grassroots Republican organizing, and the future of conservative leadership in Allegheny County. The episode also explores public safety, immigration policy, economic development, and the impact of the NFL Draft on Pittsburgh and the surrounding region. 59:53 no <p>Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Kimberly Stern, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania State Committee in the 38th Senatorial District, for a conversation about grassroots organizing, voter engagement, and the future of the Republican Party in Allegheny County. Stern shares her background in business and logistics, discusses her passion for community involvement, and explains why she believes energizing local voters and building stronger connections between Republican committees is essential heading into the next election cycle.</p> <p>The discussion also explores major issues impacting the Pittsburgh region, including public safety, immigration policy, economic development, and the lasting effects of the NFL Draft on the city. Stern also opens up about the tragic loss of her cousin in a crash involving an illegal immigrant, and how that experience strengthened her commitment to advocating for safer communities, stronger immigration enforcement, and commonsense conservative leadership across Western Pennsylvania. Special Guest: Kimberly Stern.</p> the right side of the rivers, Pittsburgh, politics, allegheny county, pennsylvania, republican podcast, kimberly stern, state committee, pennsylvania republican party, grassroots organizing, conservative leadership, public safety, immigration policy, western pennsylvania, pittsburgh republican committee, nfl draft, economic development, voter engagement, local government, pittsburgh news, republican women, todd mccollum, russell dryer Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Kimberly Stern, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania State Committee in the 38th Senatorial District, for a conversation about grassroots organizing, voter engagement, and the future of the Republican Party in Allegheny County. Stern shares her background in business and logistics, discusses her passion for community involvement, and explains why she believes energizing local voters and building stronger connections between Republican committees is essential heading into the next election cycle.

The discussion also explores major issues impacting the Pittsburgh region, including public safety, immigration policy, economic development, and the lasting effects of the NFL Draft on the city. Stern also opens up about the tragic loss of her cousin in a crash involving an illegal immigrant, and how that experience strengthened her commitment to advocating for safer communities, stronger immigration enforcement, and commonsense conservative leadership across Western Pennsylvania.

Special Guest: Kimberly Stern.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

  • Kimberly Stern for State Committee — Learn more about Kimberly. Find out about campaign events and community outreach initiatives. Support Kimberly's campaign by volunteering or donating.
  • Foundry Dinner — Join the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee at the inaugural Foundry Dinner - an unforgettable night of leadership, inspiration, and impact overlooking Pittsburgh's skyline from Mt. Washington.
]]> Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Kimberly Stern, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania State Committee in the 38th Senatorial District, for a conversation about grassroots organizing, voter engagement, and the future of the Republican Party in Allegheny County. Stern shares her background in business and logistics, discusses her passion for community involvement, and explains why she believes energizing local voters and building stronger connections between Republican committees is essential heading into the next election cycle.

The discussion also explores major issues impacting the Pittsburgh region, including public safety, immigration policy, economic development, and the lasting effects of the NFL Draft on the city. Stern also opens up about the tragic loss of her cousin in a crash involving an illegal immigrant, and how that experience strengthened her commitment to advocating for safer communities, stronger immigration enforcement, and commonsense conservative leadership across Western Pennsylvania.

Special Guest: Kimberly Stern.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

  • Kimberly Stern for State Committee — Learn more about Kimberly. Find out about campaign events and community outreach initiatives. Support Kimberly's campaign by volunteering or donating.
  • Foundry Dinner — Join the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee at the inaugural Foundry Dinner - an unforgettable night of leadership, inspiration, and impact overlooking Pittsburgh's skyline from Mt. Washington.
]]> Eileen Cunningham - Accountability, Activism, and the Future of Pittsburgh Politics https://therightsideoftherivers.fireside.fm/eileen-cunningham-accountability-activism-and-the-future-of-pittsburgh-politics c1af9591-ca9d-4e2f-ab6c-545c36bed654 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0400 Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services full Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services Eileen Cunningham joins the show to discuss grassroots organizing, her run for State Committee, and the importance of building strong local engagement in Pittsburgh. The conversation also tackles key county issues, including immigration policy, transparency, and the role of citizen involvement in shaping the region’s future. 1:11:08 no <p>In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome back Eileen Cunningham for an in-depth conversation on grassroots organizing, local political engagement, and the evolving landscape of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County politics. From her work building community connections in District 5 to her run for State Committee, Eileen shares firsthand insight into what it takes to grow a political movement from the ground up.</p> <p>The discussion also dives into major local issues, including Allegheny County’s decision to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, concerns surrounding whistleblower protections, and ongoing questions about government transparency and public spending. With a focus on accountability, public safety, and civic involvement, this episode delivers a timely and candid look at the policies and decisions shaping the region today. Special Guest: Eileen Cunningham.</p> pittsburgh politics, allegheny county, grassroots organizing, eileen cunningham, state committee, local elections, politics, civic engagement, public safety, government transparency, immigration policy, ice cooperation, county council, political activism, voter outreach In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome back Eileen Cunningham for an in-depth conversation on grassroots organizing, local political engagement, and the evolving landscape of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County politics. From her work building community connections in District 5 to her run for State Committee, Eileen shares firsthand insight into what it takes to grow a political movement from the ground up.

The discussion also dives into major local issues, including Allegheny County’s decision to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, concerns surrounding whistleblower protections, and ongoing questions about government transparency and public spending. With a focus on accountability, public safety, and civic involvement, this episode delivers a timely and candid look at the policies and decisions shaping the region today.

Special Guest: Eileen Cunningham.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

]]> In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome back Eileen Cunningham for an in-depth conversation on grassroots organizing, local political engagement, and the evolving landscape of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County politics. From her work building community connections in District 5 to her run for State Committee, Eileen shares firsthand insight into what it takes to grow a political movement from the ground up.

The discussion also dives into major local issues, including Allegheny County’s decision to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, concerns surrounding whistleblower protections, and ongoing questions about government transparency and public spending. With a focus on accountability, public safety, and civic involvement, this episode delivers a timely and candid look at the policies and decisions shaping the region today.

Special Guest: Eileen Cunningham.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

]]> 2025 Year In Review https://therightsideoftherivers.fireside.fm/2025-year-in-review c0423b23-d135-4f05-91f0-57e990324509 Thu, 01 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500 Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services full Pittsburgh City Committee & Sidekick Media Services Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer ring in the New Year with reflections on the podcast’s first season, favorite guest moments, and hopes for 2026. They share updates on upcoming races, thank their team and listeners, and reaffirm their commitment to growing Republican strength in Allegheny County. 16:30 no <p>In this special New Year’s Eve episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer close out 2025 by reflecting on the show’s first 12 episodes, their favorite guests, and what lies ahead in 2026. From touching on standout moments with guests like James Hayes, Joseph Patrick Murphy, and Jason Richey, to discussing the importance of growing Republican engagement across Allegheny County, this episode celebrates the progress made—and reaffirms the mission to restore common sense leadership in the region. Todd and Russell also talk candidly about the upcoming election year, including critical committee elections and major races like Governor and State Senate. Most of all, they express deep gratitude to their listeners, and fellow committee members working behind the scenes. Here's to a brighter, stronger 2026. </p> pittsburgh politics, allegheny county republicans, todd mccollum, russell dryer, new year episode, 2026 election cycle, grassroots organizing, local committees, republican engagement, pittsburgh gop, political podcast, civic involvement, committee elections, state senate district 38, thomas west, stacy garrity, campaign planning, common sense leadership, year in review In this special New Year’s Eve episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer close out 2025 by reflecting on the show’s first 12 episodes, their favorite guests, and what lies ahead in 2026. From touching on standout moments with guests like James Hayes, Joseph Patrick Murphy, and Jason Richey, to discussing the importance of growing Republican engagement across Allegheny County, this episode celebrates the progress made—and reaffirms the mission to restore common sense leadership in the region. Todd and Russell also talk candidly about the upcoming election year, including critical committee elections and major races like Governor and State Senate. Most of all, they express deep gratitude to their listeners, and fellow committee members working behind the scenes. Here's to a brighter, stronger 2026.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

]]> In this special New Year’s Eve episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer close out 2025 by reflecting on the show’s first 12 episodes, their favorite guests, and what lies ahead in 2026. From touching on standout moments with guests like James Hayes, Joseph Patrick Murphy, and Jason Richey, to discussing the importance of growing Republican engagement across Allegheny County, this episode celebrates the progress made—and reaffirms the mission to restore common sense leadership in the region. Todd and Russell also talk candidly about the upcoming election year, including critical committee elections and major races like Governor and State Senate. Most of all, they express deep gratitude to their listeners, and fellow committee members working behind the scenes. Here's to a brighter, stronger 2026.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

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