In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore visits Spicy Water Distillery in Millbury, Massachusetts, to sit down with founder Barry and explore the journey of turning a passion for craft spirits into a thriving local business.

Barry shares how he transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a craft distillery during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the art and science behind producing premium bourbon, vodka, agave spirits, limoncello, rum, and other handcrafted spirits. The conversation also highlights the importance of supporting local businesses, building community partnerships, and creating a welcoming destination where people can gather and celebrate together.

Topics include: Starting a craft distillery in Massachusetts The bourbon aging and distillation process How limoncello and agave spirits are handcrafted The challenges and rewards of small business ownership Entrepreneurship after corporate life Supporting local businesses and the Millbury community

Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, craft distilling, or discovering unique local businesses across the Commonwealth, this episode offers an inside look at one of Central Massachusetts' growing success stories.

This is more than politics. It's about supporting local entrepreneurs, strengthening our communities, and celebrating the businesses that make Massachusetts unique.

In this fascinating episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Dr. Alissa Haddaji, founder and director of the Space Consortium and Massachusetts Space Week, for an eye-opening conversation about Massachusetts’ growing role in the space industry and the future of space exploration.

Dr. Haddaji shares how the Space Consortium connects researchers, educators, students, and industry leaders across the Commonwealth to make space science, technology, law, medicine, engineering, and policy more accessible to the public. The discussion explores everything from asteroid detection and planetary defense to space law, STEM education, and the opportunities available for students interested in careers connected to the rapidly expanding space sector.

Topics include:

• Massachusetts Space Week and STEM outreach programs
• Space law, ethics, and international cooperation
• Planetary defense and protecting Earth from asteroids
• NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, and the future of space exploration
• Space careers and educational opportunities for students
• Why Massachusetts is becoming a leader in space research and innovation

Whether you're a space enthusiast, a student considering a STEM career, or simply curious about humanity’s future beyond Earth, this episode offers an engaging look at how Massachusetts is helping shape the next generation of space exploration.

This is more than politics. It’s about discovery, innovation, and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars.

In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore welcomes veteran broadcasters Hank Stolz and Ben White of the Radio Worcester Network and Talk of the Commonwealth for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of local media, the rise of digital platforms, and the challenges of delivering trustworthy information in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

Drawing on decades of experience in Central Massachusetts media, Hank and Ben discuss how local journalism has changed, the decline of traditional newsrooms, and the growing influence of podcasts, streaming, social media, and algorithms on the way people consume information. The conversation examines the impact of echo chambers, misinformation, media literacy, and the challenges of maintaining public trust in an era where outrage often drives engagement.

Topics include:

-The transformation of local radio and journalism

-The growth of podcasting and online streaming

-How social media algorithms shape public opinion

-The importance of media literacy and civic education

-The role of local news in strengthening communities

-Why context and facts matter more than ever

This episode offers an insightful look at the future of news, public discourse, and how communities can stay informed in a rapidly changing media environment.