On episode 21 of Granite Goodness, Andy and Emmett dig into the kitchen table issues facing Granite Staters while literally sitting at Andy’s kitchen table. This hard hitting, confrontational interview (mostly) facilitated by Andy’s sleeping poodle (Rooster) gives listeners a peek into the vibrant mind of Emmett Soldati. The two discuss:
Emmett’s family history in NH and what makes Somersworth special
Emmett’s experience as a small business owner, his evolving brand, and why he is actually a teetotaler
What makes Teatotaller a special, safe, and beloved place for NH’s queer community
Regional history, trains, ice farming, regulation, and saying “Yes in my backyard” (YIMBY)
Campaign issues— education, housing, LGBTQ+ rights, gerrymandering, taxation, etc.
Why Emmett is optimistic about NH
and more!
Emmett Soldati is running to represent District One on New Hampshire’s Executive Council. He is also the creator and proprietor of Teatotaller Cafe, with locations now in Dover and Concord, New Hampshire.
Links & Notes:
Emmett Soldati Campaign Website
New Hampshire Executive Council
Executive Council District One
Music provided by Sneaky Miles
*Emmett stated in the interview that he believed the average age of current NH Executive Council members to be around 73 years old. He later asked us to clarify that:
The average age of all 5 current council members is actually 68 years old
The oldest council member is currently 73 years old
None of the council members are younger than 62 years old
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AI Generated Episode Summary*
Can you share your background and connection to New Hampshire?
I’m a third-generation Granite Stater, born and raised in Somersworth, New Hampshire. My family has deep roots here—my grandfather and father both built their lives in this community. After spending time abroad, I returned to Somersworth and opened Teetotaler, which has become a community hub, especially for LGBTQ+ folks. My experiences here have shaped me and driven me to run for the Executive Council to continue making a difference.
How did you get interested in running for the Executive Council, and what’s the significance of this role?
It all began when Andrew Walensky, a former Executive Councilor, visited my café and encouraged me to run. I didn’t fully understand the role initially, but I learned it’s a crucial check on the governor’s power. The Council oversees state contracts and appointments for key positions, impacting everything from transportation to public services. I see this role as a way to bring balanced governance and address issues that matter to our communities.
How do you feel about the way New Hampshire’s Executive Council is structured and its effect on gerrymandering?
Gerrymandering is a significant issue here, especially with the Executive Council’s district lines. These boundaries determine who represents our communities, and the way they’re drawn can dilute certain voices. If elected, I’d push for fairer representation so that the Council reflects the diversity and needs of all New Hampshire residents, including those often marginalized.
Do you think New Hampshire’s governance structure could be improved?
I believe the Executive Council adds an important layer of checks and balances, but it’s sometimes ineffective due to limited public understanding and engagement. We need better awareness and representation, particularly from people who know the challenges facing working families and underrepresented groups. Many representatives are retired and affluent, which doesn’t capture the full range of perspectives we need.
What makes you feel connected to people with different political views in your district?
As a small business owner, I see firsthand the diverse needs within our community. My focus is on supporting working families and vulnerable groups, but I firmly believe these policies ultimately benefit everyone. It’s important to me that we lift up all Granite Staters, particularly those who feel overlooked or underserved, to make New Hampshire a more livable place for everyone.
How did Teetotaller evolve into a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community?
Teetotaller wasn’t initially intended to be an LGBTQ+ safe space; it just developed that way over time. I wanted a café that aligned with my interests, but it became a gathering place for the queer community. It’s vital for me to offer LGBTQ+ youth and others a space where they can freely express themselves without alcohol at the center. It’s become a place where people of all identities feel welcome and included.
What does freedom mean to you in the context of LGBTQ+ rights in New Hampshire?
Freedom, to me, is about the ability to live openly and authentically, which aligns perfectly with New Hampshire’s “live free or die” spirit. I believe LGBTQ+ rights are part of that ethos. With Teetotaller, I’m trying to create a space that allows everyone—especially young queer people—to explore their identities openly, which is the essence of true freedom in my view.
What’s your view on corporate involvement in Pride events and LGBTQ+ spaces?
I’m cautious about corporate Pride marketing. While it shows how far we’ve come, it often feels more like a marketing strategy than genuine support. I appreciate companies that truly engage with the LGBTQ+ community year-round, but it’s hard to ignore when some brands only do so when it’s convenient or profitable. Authenticity matters a lot to me, especially when it comes to supporting marginalized communities.
How do you handle explaining complex issues to people who might prefer simpler answers?
It can be challenging, but I think it’s essential to listen to people’s concerns and focus on the core issues affecting them. I try to present clear, effective solutions that connect with people’s everyday lives. My studies at the London School of Economics taught me a lot about complex policy issues, but my day-to-day experience running a small business in Somersworth helps me relate those ideas to real life.
What drives you to pursue public service and advocate for these community issues?
My experiences in Somersworth and my work at Teetotaller have shown me the needs of our community and the potential for positive change. I’m motivated by a commitment to make New Hampshire a place where everyone can thrive, whether that’s through supporting public education, reproductive rights, or clean energy. I want to ensure that our state government genuinely reflects and serves the needs of its people.
*This episode summary was generated by an AI analyzing a transcript of the interview. The questions, wording, and written meaning of particular sections may contain slight differences to the original conversation. We include these summaries to give listeners a brief, readable synopsis of the episode. The full episode transcript is available on granitegoodness.com.
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