PODCAST · arts
Connections Radio
by AM950 Radio
Connections gives us the chance to examine a wider perspective that may just inspire us to DO something! Engaging conversations will explore both the celebrations of living as well as the challenges we face—stories of who Twin Citians are, what we think about, and what we get out and “do” is the heart of our show. Woven into these stories may be possible innovative solutions, we may address our disconnects, find new ways of looking at our questions, or we may just take time to enjoy who we are and the wonderful ways we are connected. Our show is mostly Twin Cities based, although we do occasionally host national and international guests. Thought leaders, artists, educators, nonprofit advocates, scientists, healthcare professionals, community organizers, politicians, business innovators . . . are just a sampling of the guests you may hear when listening to Connections Radio. Listen in, join the conversation and “get connected”.
Episodes
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Connections Radio – October 17, 2026
Kit’ Bix’s “Other Jewish Voices” series continues with Guest Host John Orenstein interviewing Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) about his support for Peggy Fllanagan for US Senate. In addition he discusses J Street’s endorsement of Flanagan and himself, his recent resolution concerning Israel’s…
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Connections Radio – October 9, 2026
Laurie Fitz welcomes John Williams and Em Watson to explore the Native American Community Development Institute’s unique approach to civic engagement. Together, they unpack the “Art of Saving Democracy” toolkit and the “Making Voting a Tradition” program designed to empower Indigenous voters...
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Connections Radio – October 3, 2026
Laurie Fitz chats with local organizers, artists and creators to explore the magic behind the upcoming St. Paul Art Crawl. From vibrant student showcases and Indigenous cultural hubs to intimate home galleries, you will get a sneak peek at the incredible variety of talent on display. The St. Paul...
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Connections Radio – September 26, 2026
Guest host John Orenstein welcomes former Israeli diplomat and J Street executive Nadav Tamir for an engaging conversation on navigating the path toward peace in the Middle East. They unpack the internal dynamics of Israeli politics, the concept of a 23-state regional framework, and the broader...
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Connections Radio Show – September 26, 2026
Guest host John Orenstein welcomes former Israeli diplomat and J Street executive Nadav Tamir for an engaging conversation on navigating the path toward peace in the Middle East. They unpack the internal dynamics of Israeli politics, the concept of a 23-state regional framework, and the broader...
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Connections Radio – September 12, 2026
Host Laurie Fitz with co-host Pedra Lander, Senior Events Manager for the Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association, invites community guests Kelly Piet, Rock the Rez – Slater, and Singer/Songwriter Tearra Oso to share the vibrant grassroots story behind the Powderhorn Park Porchfest. You’ll...
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Connections Radio – September 5, 2026
Laurie Fitz invites international law scholars Fionnuala Ní Aoláin and Philippe Sands to Connections Radio to untangle the complexities of protecting human rights during global crises. The discussion bridges major geopolitical events, from the fallout of the Iraq War to the Chagos Islands…
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Connections Radio 8.29.20226
Laurie Fitz, Connections Radio Host, explores Abijah’s mission, values and stories with the founders Sally Jane Mixon and Dani Palmer. Abijah Pairs off-track Thoroughbreds with clinical counselors , & the experiential nature of their model allows clients to bring what they learn in the paddock…
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Connections Radio – August 21, 2026
Laurie Fitz catches up with Chris Candido and Suzanne Blum Grundyson to celebrate a decade of Stonewall Sports in the Twin Cities. The guests reflect on the history of the LGBTQIA+ organization, tracing its massive growth from a small kickball league into a welcoming local community of over 3,500...
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Connections Radio – August 15, 2026
Long before the national headlines of the 1960s, a transformative battle for civil rights was unfolding right in the streets of Minneapolis. Host Laurie Fitz sits down with author Samuel Freedman, former Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman, and Buck Humphrey to uncover the gritty early...
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Connections Radio – August 1, 2026
Laurie Fitz sits down with local filmmaker David Howell to discuss his upcoming documentary on the history of Tonka Toys. You will discover the deep Minnesota roots of these indestructible steel trucks, the blue-collar ingenuity of their original designers, and the passionate collectors keeping…
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Connections Radio – July 25, 2026
Laurie Fitz is joined by Catherine Bushman, Pedra Lander, Madison Rubenstein, and Nell Pierce to explore the beautiful intersection of community building and creativity at the upcoming 35th Annual Powderhorn Art Fair August 1 and 2. You’ll hear deeply personal stories about using art to navigate...
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Connections Radio – June 19, 2026
Join host Laurie Fitz for a warm, welcoming conversation about building community through the shared love of geography, art, and fantastic beverages. Erikka and Sean Curran share the inspiring journey behind Violet Wine and Spirits, their inviting neighborhood shop in Northeast Minneapolis that...
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Remembering Melissa Hortman: Friends Share Their Favorite Memories
Join host Laurie Fitz for a deeply moving tribute honoring the life, enduring light, and legacy of former Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. Through heartfelt stories shared by her closest colleagues and friends, we celebrate the profound kindness and pragmatic leadership she…
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Connections Radio 6.6.2026
Janelle Erickson Senior Marketing & Recruitment Specialist representing the Master’s in Strategic Communication Program at the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota joins Laurie Fitz to discuss opportunities to go back to school and what the University...
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Connections Radio – May 23, 2026
Join host Laurie Fitz for a moving conversation with renowned artist Laura Migliorino about the power of visual art to document our shared human experience. They dive deep into Laura’s Ghost Shoe project, a community-driven installation placing painted white shoes around the Twin Cities to mark...
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Connections Radio – May 9, 2026
This episode originally aired January 31, 2026: 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...
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Connections Radio – May 2, 2026
Host Laurie Fitz joins co-host Rick Bernardo as he visited The Phoenix Theater to interview Storydance Theatre founder, dancer, and director, Cia Sautter, along with Jewish Community Action’s Brandon Schorsch, their Combating Hate campaign organizer. We discuss Cia’s recent April Storydance…
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Connections Radio – April 18, 2026
Laurie Fitz visits with the incredibly talented songwriter and advocate Joe Begalkie to dive into the beautiful ways music helps us celebrate Autism Acceptance Month. Joined by music producer Mark Worple and nurse Kelly, the group shares the heartfelt story behind Joe’s song “Side by Side” and...
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Connections Radio – April 4, 2026
Join Laurie Fitz as she explores the power of community art with the St. Paul Art Collective and their beautiful new “Draw Together” coloring book project. You’ll hear from local artists about why creating a space for kids to feel seen and safe is more important than ever. We’re also looking…
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Connections Radio – March 28, 2026
Laurie Fitz highlights March’s Women’s History Month by interviewing three leaders at Minnesota Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Grete La-Vrenz, current President PRSA MN, is with Carmichael Lynch Relate her role is an integrated communications and public relations agency leader. Dr....
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Connections Radio Show – March 21, 2026
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…
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Connections Radio 3.14.2026
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....
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Connections Radio – March 7, 2026
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…
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Connections Radio Show – February 28, 2026
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…
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Connections Radio – February 21, 2026
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…
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Connections Radio Show – February 14, 2026
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...
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Connections Radio – February 7, 2026
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...
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Connections Radio Show – January 31, 2026
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...
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Connections Radio Show – Janary 24, 2026
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.
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Connections Radio Show – January 17, 2026
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...
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Connections Radio 1.10.2026
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.
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Connections Radio Show – December 20, 2025
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…
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Connections Radio Show – December 6, 2025
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...
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Connections Radio Show – November 15, 2025
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...
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Connections Radio Show – November 1, 2025
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
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Connections Radio 10.25.25
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....
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Connections Radio Show – October 18, 2025
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
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Connections Radio – October 4, 2025
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,”...
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Connections Radio Show -September 27, 2025
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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Connections Radio 9.20.25
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...
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Connections Radio Show – September 13, 2025
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…
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Connections Radio” 9/6/2025 w/ Melody Mendis
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....
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Connections Radio – August 2, 2025
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...
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Connections Radio Show – July 26, 2025
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...
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Connections Radio 7.19.25
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. –...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Connections gives us the chance to examine a wider perspective that may just inspire us to DO something! Engaging conversations will explore both the celebrations of living as well as the challenges we face—stories of who Twin Citians are, what we think about, and what we get out and “do” is the heart of our show. Woven into these stories may be possible innovative solutions, we may address our disconnects, find new ways of looking at our questions, or we may just take time to enjoy who we are and the wonderful ways we are connected. Our show is mostly Twin Cities based, although we do occasionally host national and international guests. Thought leaders, artists, educators, nonprofit advocates, scientists, healthcare professionals, community organizers, politicians, business innovators . . . are just a sampling of the guests you may hear when listening to Connections Radio. Listen in, join the conversation and “get connected”.
HOSTED BY
AM950 Radio
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Connections Radio have?
Connections Radio currently has 300 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Connections Radio about?
Connections gives us the chance to examine a wider perspective that may just inspire us to DO something! Engaging conversations will explore both the celebrations of living as well as the challenges we face—stories of who Twin Citians are, what we think about, and what we get out and “do” is the...
How often does Connections Radio release new episodes?
Connections Radio publishes regularly with 300 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Connections Radio?
You can listen to Connections Radio on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Connections Radio?
Connections Radio is created and hosted by AM950 Radio.
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