PVD POV

WaterFire isn’t just an event — it’s a tradition that’s shaped Providence for three decades. In this episode of PVD POV, we sit down with Chris Donovan, Development Manager at WaterFire Providence, to talk about what makes this public art installation so powerful, the stories it inspires and the community that keeps it alive.
We also look ahead to FireBall: Phoenix Rising, WaterFire’s annual gala fundraiser happening this October at the WaterFire Arts Center. From its avant-garde black-tie theme to the honorees who embody the spirit of Providence’s creative capital, FireBall is more than a party — it’s a chance to ensure the fires keep burning for years to come.
 
PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau  in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com (../../) for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.
 

Roger Williams Park Zoo has long been one of the most beloved institutions in Rhode Island, and in this episode, we find out exactly why. Executive Director Stacey Johnson joins us to talk about what makes the zoo such a vital community asset, from behind-the-scenes conservation work to major upgrades like the new education center and the return of the penguins. We also dig into the surprising science behind animal emotions, how zookeeping has evolved and the zoo’s growing role as a year-round destination for everyone.
PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textThis week on PVD POV, we sit down with Bradly VanDerStad, founder of Providence Tour Company, to talk about how one person’s love for the city turned into a thriving small business. From uncovering hidden histories to experimenting with new ways for people to experience Providence — like speakeasy-style strolls and art and architecture tours — Bradly shares what it means to build connection and pride through storytelling. Whether you're a visitor or a local, this episode will have you seeing the city in a whole new light.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textRhode Island is having a movie moment, and we’re here for it! In this episode of PVD POV, we're joined by Shawn Quirk and Ericka Atwell from the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) to talk about what makes this event so unique, why Hollywood is paying attention to Providence and how local talent can get their big break.From screenings at iconic venues to red carpet glamour and behind-the-scenes stories of indie film magic, we cover everything you need to know about this August’s festival (August 5–10). We also dive into Rhode Island’s growing presence in the film world, what attracts productions to the state and how RIIFF is building a supportive, inclusive and thriving film community.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textThe latest episode of PVD POV takes us inside Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, where Rhode Island FC President David Peart and Stadium GM Paul Byrne reflect on a high-energy launch month packed with soccer, rugby, and Rhode Island flavor. From locally-sourced stadium snacks (yes, there’s a pastrami sandwich you need to try) to a growing calendar of events like concerts and championships, this venue is quickly becoming a major player in the state’s event scene.Tune in to hear how this stadium is creating a world-class fan experience, with a uniquely Rhode Island touch.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textEver wonder what really goes on behind the scenes of a major meeting or convention? This week on PVD POV, we sit down with one of our own: Carley Foto from the Convention Services team at GoProvidence. Carley walks us through the magic of event planning, from pre-con visits and community outreach to why the bathrooms at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport deserve a standing ovation. Plus, we chat about the upcoming FlightSim Expo, a public event that's taking over the city this June. You'll never look at meetings or skydiving the same way again.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textNora Barré is back — our very first return guest on PVD POV! As Executive Director of the Downtown Providence Park Network, Nora is always up to something creative, and this time she’s unveiling her biggest project yet: a new Wayfinding system designed to connect downtown Providence through art, signage, and interactive installations.From 200 custom-designed banners to music-playing, light-up anchor sculptures (yes, really), Nora walks us through how this project will help visitors and locals explore the city in fresh, exciting ways. We also get a preview of summer events, family-friendly programming, and how her team is bringing public space to life all year long.If you’ve ever felt unsure where to go in Providence — or just love a good creative placemaking story — this one’s for you.PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.

Send us a textWhat started as a pop-up has turned into one of the hottest spots in Providence! In this episode of PVD POV, we sit down with James Dean and Joe Hafner, the masterminds behind Irregardless Biscuit, to talk about their journey from pandemic pop-ups to a thriving business in the West Side. They share how a simple biscuit recipe sparked a sensation, their approach to keeping things fresh, and the quirks that make their shop a must-visit. Plus, we discuss their local roots, cult-favorite menu items, and what’s next for these biscuit pioneers. Tune in to hear their incredible story (and maybe crave a biscuit or two)! PVD POV is a podcast hosted by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the College of Hospitality Management and Center for Media Production at Johnson & Wales University. Hosts are Alana Cerrone O'Hare and Nick Millard. Production is by Professor Bryan Lavin, with assistance from Graduate Students in Tourism Management. Episodes are available wherever you download your podcasts. Visit GoProvidence.com for more information on these stories and everything else Providence.