Épisodes

  • Tracy Larger - Candidate for City Council

    Tracy Larger - Candidate for City Council
    Aug 28 2025
    Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer sit down with Tracy Larger, candidate for Pittsburgh City Council District 4. Tracy shares her personal story - from community involvement to becoming a judge of elections - and explains how public safety concerns and neighborhood change inspired her to launch a grassroots campaign centered on transparency, local voice, and commonsense leadership. The episode explores major topics affecting District 4 and Pittsburgh at large, including the controversial tiny house proposal for interim housing, city council’s push to bypass zoning oversight, and the lack of community input around projects like the Moore Park tree removal and Carrick cell tower installation. The hosts and guest reflect on local events like Little Italy Days and highlight support from candidates including Maria Battista, Matt Wolford, Mike Embrescia, and more. With a focus on essential services, city budget accountability, and preserving the character of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods, this episode underscores why District 4 could be a pivotal battleground in the coming election, and why voices like Tracy’s are stepping up. Special Guest: Tracy Larger.
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    56 min
  • Joe Pegher

    Joe Pegher
    Aug 14 2025
    In the first-ever live episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer are joined by Greenfield resident and committee member Joe Pegher for a candid conversation about Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage, the tragic US Steel plant explosion in Clairton, and the future of steel in the Mon Valley. They discuss current challenges facing the city — including police staffing shortages, crime response tools like ShotSpotter, and controversial traffic-calming measures — while highlighting Joe’s deep community roots and his perspective on local leadership in Council District 5. With personal stories and policy debate, this episode blends heartfelt reflection with clear-eyed analysis of what Pittsburgh needs to move forward. Special Guest: Joe Pegher.
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    59 min
  • Eileen Cunningham

    Eileen Cunningham
    Jul 31 2025
    In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome guest Eileen Cunningham - local activist, former county council candidate, and founder of One Vote PA. Together, they discuss the state of Pittsburgh’s city budget, the deteriorating vehicle fleet, and the ongoing need for transparency and fiscal responsibility in city government. Eileen shares her personal journey into politics, insights from her campaign in County Council District 11, and how grassroots outreach is making an impact across Allegheny County and beyond. The conversation also highlights Pennsylvania's shifting political landscape, the importance of voter engagement, and how flipping registrations and building community trust is reshaping the Republican presence in urban and suburban areas alike. Plus, the hosts spotlight Superior Court candidate Maria Battista and Commonwealth Court candidate Matt Wolford. They also reflect on the legacy and local roots of bestselling author, Salena Zito. Whether you're a lifelong Pittsburgher or just tuning in to local politics, this episode offers an honest, boots-on-the-ground look at the people and principles working to bring balance and common sense back to government. Special Guest: Eileen Cunningham.
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    58 min
  • Introduction

    Introduction
    Jul 21 2025
    In this inaugural episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dreyer reflect on their shared journey in Pittsburgh politics, highlighting how grassroots involvement and local leadership can shape the future of the region. They discuss the current state of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County politics, the challenges posed by progressive policies, and why now is the time for commonsense residents to engage, organize, and make a difference. From tackling issues like homelessness and public safety to supporting working-class communities, Todd and Russell share their insights on how civic involvement at the neighborhood level can drive meaningful change. They also preview key local elections in 2025 and introduce listeners to the candidates working to bring accountability and opportunity back to Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Looking ahead, they offer a sneak peek at future guests, starting with City Council District 6 candidate Jacob Dumont, founder of Northside Action News.
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    39 min