Connections Radio

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’t Have to Ride Jim Crow! is discussed between Robin and Sheree
Roll of Independent Journalism with protest and Civil Rights
Challenges for Black Journalists targeted by Trump
And what drew Robin to Irene Morgan’s story

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?”

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
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www.PhoenixTheaterMpls.org • www.simpletix.com/e/stolen-focus-tickets-193118

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

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit Rick’s former Pacific School of Religion colleague, Reverend Steve Garnaas-Holmes—who, among other United Methodist ministry pursuits, performed all over the country with The Montana Logging and Ballet Company. It’s just one extension of his longtime experience as a composer, musician, actor, comedian, and poet. Last year April 27, 2024, our discussion about art and spirituality benefited from his years of performances zany and beautiful—often at the same time—with his years of perspective both circumspect and deep. This time we go deeper, including what we might do to survive trying times. – www.U...

Continuing our series on “Library Connections,” Laurie Fitz joins co-hosts Sally and Susan from the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)—the largest of MN’s regional library systems with more than 100 library locations across the greater Twin Cities area. We include previews on their holiday programming, their highly-used Libby app (www.Libbyapp.com), recommended recent books, and their metro-wide “Winter Reads” adult reading program—coming January and February. We also feature library staff, with: Paula LaFrenierre, Adult Services Coordinator from Scott County Library / Kelsey Johnson-Kaiser, Youth and Families Services Manager from Saint Paul Library / Jessica Schenk, Program Coordinator from Carver County Librar...

Co-hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo join climate scientist, author, artist, and mother, Anna Farro Henderson, PhD, to discuss her recently launched book, “Core Samples: A Climate Scientist’s Experiments in Politics and Motherhood” (2024, University of Minnesota Press). After our 10/5/24 broadcast, hear this part 2 of our wide-ranging, fun discussions on the fascinating yet essential intersections of science, politics, parenting, and art: “Using Our Stories to Support Action on Climate Change.” – www.AnnaFarroHenderson.com • www.upress.umn.edu/9781517916046/core-samples

Laurie Fitz is joined by co-hosts Sally and Susan from the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)—the largest of MN’s regional library systems with more than 100 library locations across the greater Twin Cities area. Hear about their great “smARTpass” program—its origins and regional arts partners with guests from Walking Shadow Theatre Company, American Swedish Institute, University of MN Dept. of Theatre Arts & Dance, and First Avenue & 7th St. Entry club properties—often including free tickets! – This 5-part MELSA series is 2nd Saturdays of the remaining months this year. – smARTpass.melsa.org • www.MELSA.org • SusanTheeLibrarian@gmail.com

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with musician Libby McLaren—singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, performer, and music teacher (Rick met her long ago as they each performed at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park Bandshell). We hear some of her most recent album with partner Robin Flower, “One Plus One”—and discuss her deep and wide history and future of musical connections. – www.LibbyMclaren.com • www.FlowerandMclaren.com • www.youtube.com/@celialibbysexcellentharmon5598

Laurie Fitz interviews Jeffrey Morris, a black director based here the Twin Cities. Jeffrey will be part of or the Twin Cities Film Festival discussion on two documentaries in production. Laurie and Jeffrey explore his take on the future and our collective opportunity to choose hope and face challenges with respect, dignity and strong moral fiber. By looking back at the science fiction of the 60’s – 70’s there are lessons to be learned in moving forward. Jeffry was inspired by Star Trek, Space: 1999 and others, and he is touching a nerve with his thoughts on space exploration in the future...

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo sit with Joan Deming and Jes Ahlemeier, who reflect on their time volunteering in Palestine—working with Tent of Nations—contributing toward peace and healing in a war-torn region. Hear more about their experiences of sacred grounds, including foundations of justice and peace. – www.TentofNations.com • https://fotonna.org