In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Benson Fechter, one of the Republican candidates for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District. A South Hills native, small business owner, and family man, Benson shares his story, outlines his motivation for running, and explains how his campaign is working to connect with voters across both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.

The conversation also features a deep dive into Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela and why Russell believes the mission has long-term significance for U.S. policy, energy independence, and regional stability. The discussion also includes a look at ICE protests in Minneapolis and Pittsburgh, the importance of law enforcement cooperation, and the leadership challenges that arise when city and county officials hedge on public safety.

From managing infrastructure to confronting propaganda and chaos, this episode covers how strong leadership and clear communication are essential at every level of government. Whether you’re focused on Pittsburgh’s snow removal failures or shaping the future of Congress, this episode offers grounded insights from citizens who want to fix what’s broken.

Special Guest: Benson Fechter.

Todd McCollum welcomes guest co-host Bob Crankovic (filling in for Russell Dryer) and this week's guest - David Gehring. Both are active Republican leaders in Pittsburgh and join Todd for a wide-ranging conversation on party growth, public safety, and fiscal accountability. Crankovic, a longtime organizer with the Young Republicans, and Gehring, a U.S. Army veteran and vice chair of Pittsburgh’s District 2 GOP, bring their insights from the ground, reflecting on grassroots activism, campaign organizing, and where the conservative movement stands heading into 2026.

The group unpacks the City of Pittsburgh’s recent tax hike, critiques council’s budget priorities, and dives into the failed management of COVID relief funds. They also challenge the city's stance on ICE cooperation and discuss the national and local implications of law enforcement resistance. With sharp commentary on government accountability, public spending, and political messaging, this episode strikes at the heart of what it means to restore conservative leadership in urban spaces.

Whether you're a seasoned committee member or a newcomer looking to get involved, this episode offers real talk and actionable insight from voices on the front lines of local politics.

Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and David Gehring.

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.

In this pre-holiday episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer are joined by immigration attorney and former judicial candidate Joseph Patrick Murphy for a deep and thoughtful conversation on immigration law, border policy, and the state of civic life in Allegheny County. Murphy, a Roman Catholic, Republican, and longtime advocate for legal immigration, offers insights from over 25 years of experience helping people follow U.S. immigration laws the right way.

The discussion spans topics like asylum delays, ICE cooperation in local municipalities, the sanctuary city debate, Springdale Borough’s 287(g) agreement, and what “legal immigration” truly means in practice. We also reflect on the legacy of public service, constitutional order, and the strain that illegal entry places on the system and on those trying to follow the law.

The episode opens with reflections on the Army-Navy Game Watch Party, a public hearing on the Pittsburgh city budget, and recent headlines - from acts of violence against Jewish communities to concerns over government transparency and public safety. This is a must-listen episode for anyone seeking clarity on immigration issues from a constitutional and compassionate lens - and a reminder that effective leadership begins at the local level.

From all of us at The Right Side of the Rivers: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and warm holiday wishes to our listeners across the Pittsburgh region.

Special Guest: Joseph Patrick Murphy.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome James Hayes, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District. Hayes, a Pittsburgh resident with extensive experience in finance, economics, and public service, shares his personal story, outlines his vision for revitalizing the region, and discusses why he’s challenging incumbent Summer Lee.

The conversation explores the future of AI and energy in Western PA, Pittsburgh’s development potential, and the upcoming Esplanade project on the North Side. The conversation dives into the city’s growing budget crisis and the mishandling of Pittsburgh’s public fleet - offering practical solutions and insight. James also outlines how federal representatives can and should support local infrastructure, and why good governance must be both compassionate and competent. Whether you're a Republican, Independent, or Democrat - this episode has something for every voter looking for accountable leadership.

📅 Plus: Don’t miss our Army/Navy Game Watch Party, December 13 at Morningside VFW! All are welcome.

Special Guest: James Hayes.

In this milestone 10th episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Steve Schlauch, chairman of the Plum Borough Republican Committee and regional coordinator for RCAC. Steve shares how Plum became one of Allegheny County’s strongest Republican-led communities - thanks to grassroots work, strategic doorknocking, and a clear message that connects with voters.

Todd and Russell are fresh in studio from attending Thomas West’s official campaign announcement for PA Senate District 38. They share their takeaways from the event, discuss key races on the horizon, and look ahead to how Republicans can strengthen local coalitions heading into 2026.

Plus, the team dives into some of Pittsburgh’s biggest news: the opening of the new airport terminal, the city’s looming budget crisis, and why voter engagement and strong school board leadership remain essential pillars of good governance across the region.

Tune in for insight, strategy, and straight-talk from a local leader making an impact.

Special Guest: Steve Schlauch.

In the wake of a tough election night for Republicans across Allegheny County and Pennsylvania, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer sit down with political analyst and former North Allegheny School Board President Bob Howard for a candid conversation on the results, the messaging, and what the numbers are starting to reveal.

From low Republican turnout and partisan straight-ticket voting to the emotional power of the judicial retention fight, Bob shares valuable insights into what drove Democrats to the polls and why strong Republican candidates were drowned out by top-down narratives. They also take some time to reflect on the realities of campaigning in a progressive county, and the need to sharpen strategy for 2025 and beyond. With thoughtful analysis, lessons learned, and a look ahead to what’s next, this episode pulls back the curtain on Allegheny County politics - and why the GOP is far from out of the fight.

Special Guest: Bob Howard.

In this pivotal pre-election episode, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer are joined by Jason Richey, Chairman of the Republican Committee of Allegheny County (RCAC), for a wide-ranging conversation on the Republican resurgence in Pittsburgh and beyond. Jason shares how the GOP has expanded from 50% to 98% local committee coverage in just months, the strategy behind forming regional committees like Woodland Hills and Fox Chapel, and why the 2025 election could flip County Council control for the first time in decades.

From energizing voters in long-forgotten areas like McKeesport and the Mon Valley to supporting working-class candidates like Mike Dell, Mary Jo Wise, Len Iorio, and Patrick Provins, Jason lays out a bold plan for reclaiming Allegheny County through grassroots momentum, commonsense policies, and real leadership. The episode also touches on judicial races, key countywide candidates, and why a vote for Republicans this November is a vote for accountability, economic growth, and public safety.

Special Guest: Jason Richey.