Connections Radio

Host Laurie Fitz continues our series on Jewish Voices, Today’s show highlights UnXeptable a movement group  founded by Israeli expats here in the US who are standing up to save democracy and human rights in Israel. We are focusing on how ordinary citizens can come together and make a difference in the fight to preserve democracy – both here and in Israel.

We are grateful for the efforts of Kit Bix, our producer of the Jewish Voices series. Laurie is joined by Co-host John Orenstein who is Co-Chair of J Street Minnesota and our guests include Offir Gutelzon Co...

Host Laurie Fitz engages in conversations with Prime Productions about their World Premiere of ABUELITA – by Nathan Yungerberg –  and directed by Shay Cage – the show will be playing at the Capri Theatre March 14th through the 29th. More information can be found about the play at PrimeProds.org. ABUELITA is a great story and celebration! A story of love, community and belonging. Listen in for insights shared by the playwright Nathan Yungerberg, director Sha Cage and actors:  Skyler Seiler, Gabi Del Moral, King Jackson, Mary Gant, Adlyn Carreras, & Pedro R. Bayon.

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Laurie Fitz sits down with the team behind the Great American Think-off in New York Mills, Minnesota, to dive into the art of civil discourse. They’re tackling this year’s massive question—whether our constant pursuit of happiness is actually making us miserable—and chatting with past winners about how deep thinking can bring a community together. If you’ve got an opinion on the American experiment and want to sharpen your debate skills, listen in to find out how you can submit your own essay before the April deadline.

#ConnectionsRadio #GreatAmericanThinkOff #CivilDiscourse #NewYorkMills #PursuitOfHappiness #MinnesotaCulture #Philosophy...

Laurie Fitz and Co-host Rick Bernardo explore the work of the Liberia Career Pathways. Guests include Kenety Gee, Executive Director, Connector Judy Poss, and Board Members: Dr. John Wulu, Professor and retired from Government, Dr. Henry Taylor, retired medical school professor – John Hopkins, Tim Beacon – CEO of Medical Aid International and Emily Anderson – Vice President and Municipal Services Manager at Halff Engineering. Liberia Career Pathways is an initiative designed to bridge gaps in the nation’s education and workforce systems by providing students with career exploration, mentorship, and in-school clubs. It aims to align education with economic needs in sectors...

Laurie Beth Fitz and Rick Bernardo join special guests for our “Love Letters to Minnesota” broadcast. Join us as we celebrate the artistry of Ali Daniels’ photo that touched the world, Kenety Gee’s immigrant perspective and grateful editorial in the Pioneer Press, organizer Danielle who encouraged a “love forward” to support the needs of our neighbors, Susan Shehata who shared insights into the process of working through community trauma, Terry Gips who shares about sustainability and our future generation’s commitment, and Minnesota-raised Sandra Thomas, now living in Atlanta, shares about her journey of Civil Rights awareness and her growing-ever appr...

As part of the Connections Radio “Jewish Voices Series” host Laurie Fitz joins Journalist Sheree Curry and Dr. Yohuru Williams – a distinguished University Chair and Professor of History & Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas. The discussion includes Dr. Williams participation as a featured expert on the 2026 PBS special Black & Jewish America: An Interwoven History – airing in February 2026. The program also delves into Dr. Williams’ own work and perspective of Black- Jewish relationships historically starting from the Civil Rights era and then moving onto the question of where things stand today and potentially the future. S...

As part of the Connections Radio “Jewish Voices Series” host Laurie Fitz joins Journalists Sheree Curry and Robin Washington for the 1st of 2 broadcasts on “Blacks and Jews”. This week’s focus –  “A Conversation on Truth, Freedom & Justice.”,Special thanks to Kit Bix for her work and support as Co-Producer of the Jewish Voices Series

Sheree R. Curry with Laurie Fitz and Kit Bix welcome Robin Washington to Connections Radio.
Discussing Both Black and Jewish histories are shaped by moments when legal protections failed and an overview of PBS Black & Jewish America Series / history of Black-Jewish alliance
You Don...

Host Laurie Fitz visits with MN DFL Voices from Greater Minnesota and the Metro to talk about issues, pros and cons, surrounding Data Centers. Drawing on research and wide-ranging conversations, our panelists include: Jonathon Rehlander – Minnesota House Candidate for 39A and Co-host for our Data Center discussion, Johnnie Forrest retired IUPAT Local 106 & SD7 DFL Chair, Susan Herder – Secretary for SD 59 and Humphrey School Student, and Jack Carlson Duluth Building & Construction Trades President. A great discussion on important issues to consider when building policies regarding Data Centers future in Minnesota.

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Host Laurie Fitz is joined by the fantabulous Philip Anthony, host of the Downright Upright Show airing Saturdays at 5 PM on AM950 and available anywhere on podcast.

The post Connections Radio Show – Janary 24, 2026 first appeared on AM 950.

Following last Saturday’s 1/10/26 broadcast, today hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo feature more community members and leaders discussing not only ICE’s recent shooting of a Minneapolis citizen and mother, but also ICE’s ongoing para-military occupation of the Twin Cities area and beyond. We discuss what the essence of connection might mean in the wake of a tragic death and current traumatic times—with Alex Trevino, Rev. Trish Vanni, Rev. Doug Pagitt, and Anthony Signorelli.

The post Connections Radio Show – January 17, 2026 first appeared on AM 950.

Connections Radio” hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo hear from community members about ICE’s recent shooting of Minneapolis citizen and mother, Renee Nicole Good. We discuss what the essence of connection might mean in the aftermath of her tragic death.

The post Connections Radio 1.10.2026 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz is joined by our Twin Cities writer/composer, musician, actor, producer, and educator, Brenda Varda. Together they explore in a provocative discussion …. how the meaning of “holding” can be thought of during the holidays as well as with our relationship to the world around us. “What are you holding on to?”

The post Connections Radio Show – December 20, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Host Laurie Fitz visits with Western Communities Action Network—WeCAN—a community nonprofit serving Western Hennepin County individuals and families in need since 1989. They empower and equip individuals and families to reach stability and self-sufficiency. From emergency assistance, to food support, to helping clients with job skills, WeCAN is in existence to help, support and inspire. –  www.WeCANmn.org

The post Connections Radio Show – December 6, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit a 5th time with University of Connecticut’s Professor of English, well-known author, and humorist, Gina Barreca. (Rick sought her out years ago after seeing her book on women, academia, and humor: “They Used to Call Me Snow White… But I Drifted.”) Our broadcast follows her newest book, “Gina School,” as she opens the doors to her most personal, provocative, and laugh-out-loud collection yet. “Whether you’re an anxious applicant, a lifelong learner, a book club rebel, or just someone looking for a little reassurance and a lot of sass—you belong here.” – www.GinaBarre...

Host Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with Rev. Dr. Trish Sullivan Vanni, a priest from Charis Community, Minnesota’s first Ecumenical Catholic Church. We discuss Catholic Church and wider church history, along with women and their place in that evolving landscape. – www.CharisECC.org

The post Connections Radio Show – November 1, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with writer/composer, musician, actor, producer, and educator (composition, critical thinking, and arts development), Brenda Varda. Back in February she visited with others from Phoenix Theater’s production of “Stolen Focus,” the script for which she wrote. Besides hearing samples from her wonderful music, we’ll discuss not only her myriad roles of creativity as she connects science and the arts, but also humor’s and satire’s deeper heart. – www.BrendaVarda.com • www.youtube.com/@BrendaVarda

The post Connections Radio 10.25.25 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo speak with callers around the Twin Cities and the country about “We the People,” as today’s “No Kings” rallies for democracy will be the largest national protests in history against fascism and for our communities. – www.IndivisibleTwinCities.org • wwwIndivisible.org

The post Connections Radio Show – October 18, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz visits with Prime Production’s artistic directors—Alison Edwards and Shelli Place—along with cast members Elizabeth Desotelle, Kurt Schulz, Terry Lynn Carlson, Bob Malos, Erik Steen, and Alison Edwards and about their coming Twin Cities premier of “For Peter Pan on Her 70th Birthday,” by acclaimed playwright Sarah Ruhl. Hear about this fantastical dramedy that follows five adult siblings navigating the loss of their father, their childhood memories, and their evolving sense of self as they age. – www.PrimeProds.org • www.PrimeProds.org/for-peter-pan-on-her-70th-birthday

The post Connections Radio – October 4, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Host Laurie Fitz continues her Jewish Voices series, featuring J Street senior operating officer and foreign policy expert Ilan Goldenberg, along with co-host John Orenstein and co-producer Kit Bix.

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Laurie has John Rossakis Owner and Head Trainer From Paw and Order is back on Connections Radio. Today’s topic will discuss dog breeds and what is right for your family and home. John discusses the Dog’s training and welcoming them into their forever home.
Paw and Order website https://www.pawandorder.com/
Contact phone (612) 518-0954

The post Connections Radio 9.20.25 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with musician, community activist, and international troubadour, Larry Long. We hear about the debut of his “Tractorcade 1979″ documentary at Farm Aid 2025, new songs such as “I Don’t Believe In Violence,” the recent June’s “No Kings” rally at the MN Capitol, and his newly re-released album, “Living In A Rich Man’s World.” – www.LarryLong.org  •  www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eWO2YeiUuQ • www.FarmAid.org

The post Connections Radio Show – September 13, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz with Rick Bernardo visit vocalist, tribute artist (Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga), voice instructor, teacher, and athlete, Melody Mendis. We hear about the joy she brings to and from each of these life endeavors—and tools she uses to overcome barriers to that kind of inspirational life. (For more on her book in process, send name, email, and preference of digital or paper book to: MelodyMendis@gmail.com) – www.MelodyMendisMusic.com / www.MelodyasBarbra.wordpress.com

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Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit again with Alliance for Sustainability President and Co-Founder, Terry Gips. After last week we had explored the Alliance for Sustainability’s coming series of events at the MN State Fair on Aug. 21 and 30, today we hear more about their ongoing work to champion sustainability that’s ecologically sound, economically viable, socially just and humane. We also explore how we might mark and maintain our moral north star amidst collective ongoing challenges to the good of all. – www.AforS.org

The post Connections Radio – August 2, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with Alliance for Sustainability President and Co-Founder, Terry Gips. We explore the Alliance for Sustainability’s coming series of events at the Minnesota State Fair on Aug. 21 and 30—and their ongoing work to champion sustainability that’s ecologically sound, economically viable, socially just and humane. – www.AforS.org

The post Connections Radio Show – July 26, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with Paw and Order Twin Cities dog trainer, John Rossakis, about connecting with our pets—dogs in particular. We review the various breeds of dogs and gain insights into how our relationships with them can grow for the good of all. – www.PawandOrder.com/twin-cities

The post Connections Radio 7.19.25 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with playwright and Walking Shadow Theatre Company’s artistic director, John Heimbuch—broadcasting live from the Twin Cities Pride Festival in Minneapolis’s Loring Park. We discuss their recent debut of “Mae West and the Trial of Sex,” how it relates to recent modern social trials, plus upcoming Walking Shadow productions. – #TCPride • www.WalkingShadow.org • www.JohnHeimbuch.com

The post Connections Radio – Live Pride Special – June 28, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with artist/songwriter/producer, Patrick Adams, as well as Rock the Cause Records CEO, Scotty Herold. We celebrate the joy of connection through music as they take us on a journey through styles and sounds—from smooth R&B/Soul to Memphis/Soul to Funk and Gospel—accompanied by stories and connections deep and wide. – www.PatrickAdamsMuzic.com

The post Connections Radio Show – June 21, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with singer-songwriter and performer, Cassandra Cole. Crafting her own blend of Midwestern alternative soul, her debut 2022 album was “Steps.” In April that year as we visited Rock the Cause Record’s CEO, Scott Herold, “Connections Radio” featured a song from that album, “Upside Down.” For this broadcast, we’ll explore with her yet more of her great music, her current song, “Wednesdays,” and what else for her is musically simmering. Cassandra Cole’s music dives deep into the trials and tribulations of her life—highlighting themes of love, mental health, and perseverance, while conveying an intimate sense...

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo join Susan Hart Gaines to discuss her new book: “Prioritize Your Self-Care: Reclaiming Your Path to an Extraordinary Life” (2025 New York, Aviva Publishing). Susan is a certified life coach at Wild Hart Coaching, founder and owner of Embody Minneapolis, and a previous “Connections Radio” guest. In our culture, taking care of ourselves can be challenging. Everything else can seem more important—yet without the foundation of our own care, nothing else works well or it breaks down. Susan spreads this message for being self-care warriors : “You matter. Your care matters. This book is the reminder.”...

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with songwriter Joe Bigalke, who’s thrilled to release worldwide his recent single, “No Matter Where You Are,” on Rock the Cause Records—whose CEO Scott Herold joins us along with producer Mark Woerpel. (Co-written with 3-time Grammy nominated songwriter, Jamie Floyd, the new song features vocalist Brooke Elizabeth.) We hear a number of Joe’s beautiful recordings—exploring how they came to be with the creative forces behind Joe Bigalke Music. – www.JoeBigalkeMusic.com • www.iRocktheCause.org • https://MarkWoerpelMusic.homesteadcloud.com

The post Connections Radio Show – April 19, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit a 4th time with University of Connecticut’s Professor of English, well-known author, and humorist, Gina Barreca. (Rick sought her out years ago after seeing her book on women, academia, and humor: “They Used to Call Me Snow White… But I Drifted.”) Our broadcast follows the 4th book in her edited “Fast Women” series: “Fast Famous Women: 75 Essays of Flash Nonfiction” (Woodhall Press). Her book about 75 famous women—written by 75 great authors—is a delight with insights about women, fame, and our culture at large. Our conversations with Gina about significant subjects are always a blast. –...

Hosts Laurie Fitz, Mia Roberts, and Rick Bernardo visit with Nara Logics’ CEO and Board Member, Jana Eggers, for this 2nd broadcast following our 3/1/25 show about AI: In the people-centric restaurant industry, how is AI impacting the business today and how will it in the future? Most every one of us has experience on various sides of the restaurant table. If you want to begin coming to grips with AI—its past, its implications, and its future possibilities—now’s your chance.  –  www.NaraLogics.com  •  www.ChooseRestaurants.com

The post Connections Radio Show – March 22, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with Nara Logics‘ CEO and Board Member, Jana Eggers, for “What the Heck Is A.I.?” If you want to begin coming to grips with AI—its past and its future implications—now’s your chance. With over 30 years of technology and leadership experience from Intuit, Lycos, American Airlines, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and startups that you’ve never heard of, Jana is a frequent speaker, writer, and mentor on AI and startups. (She is also a marathoner and an Ironman.) –  www.NaraLogics.com

The post Connections Radio Show – March 1 2025 first appeared on AM 9

Host Laurie Fitz with co-hosts Rick Bernardo and Mickaylee Shaughnessy visit with artists from Phoenix Theater’s coming 2/16–3/2 production, “Stolen Focus.” Guests include: Brenda Varda (Writer) • Mickaylee Shaughnessy (Actor/Co-host) • Mike Dee (Actor) • Sandi Flahn (Actor). Based on “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari, the creative cast have devised an evening that brings the ‘circus’ of digital life into a story that may seem familiar to many. Offering dramatic lenses orbiting the heart of human connection, it truly is a theater production for our time.
—
www.PhoenixTheaterMpls.org • www.simpletix.com/e/stolen-focus-tickets-193118

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Laurie talks with Fulbright Fellow recipient Laura Migliorino today about how art can make a difference in life.

The post Connections Radio Show – January 18, 2025 first appeared on AM 950.