Where We Live

Charlie Widmer describes himself as a multi-genre musician, but his range goes far beyond most artists. From opera to bluegrass, he's pretty much done it all. Widmer is now the Connecticut State Troubadour, an official position devoted to music education and community. One of his major goals is to make more people comfortable pursuing music, he said. "My whole goal with being an educator is to try and just help people be less hard on themselves," he said. "It's not about being perfect. It turns out no one has it figured out. It turns out everyone's pretending. And I think it's time we take the masks off." Today, we’ll hear about Widmer's musical journey across the globe, and his ongoing work to nurture the local music scene in Connecticut. Where We Live is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“An Arcane Inheritance," the latest novel of author Kamilah Cole, weaves dark academia with occult secrets at a fictional Ivy League school based in Hartford. The story follows the ambitious, determined Ellory Morgan, a Jamaican immigrant and first-generation college student pursuing a degree in political science. A lavish scholarship allows her to begin her college education at Warren University, but soon after arriving on campus, things start to unravel into the paranormal. We'll explore Cole's latest book, ask what drew her to Hartford and explain "dark academia" — a popular genre where brooding and blazers meet ivory towers and sinister secrets. GUEST: Kamilah Cole: author of several books including “An Arcane Inheritance" Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The postpartum period can be one of the most vulnerable and challenging times in a parent’s life. It's also one of the least talked about. That's despite mental health disorders being the leading complication of childbirth in the United States of America, affecting 1 in 5 women. The postpartum period can bring depression, anxiety and a host of other mental health challenges. And too often, parents are left wondering what’s normal and where to turn for help. This hour, we explore postpartum mental health and what support is available in Connecticut. We’re joined by a doctor from St. Mary's Hospital, where a new unit, designed specifically for pregnant and postpartum patients, recently opened. We also hear from Postpartum Support International’s Connecticut chapter about why this period is so high-risk and how they’re working to connect families with care. And later, we’ll hear one mother’s story of navigating postpartum depression, and how she’s processed that experience through a new collection of poetry. Guests: Kassondra Mangione, author of "Coffee Mug Rings" Dr. Irina Magidina, chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Saint Mary’s Hospital Jennifer Vendetti, co-chair, Board of Directors, Postpartum Support International Connecticut Chapter Samantha Smalls, Board of Directors, Postpartum Support International Connecticut Chapter Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It takes a village to raise a child. Today, we're exploring what it means to be an aunt and the many ways these important figures provide mentorship, guidance and care. Whether you are a biological or surrogate aunt, these role models are instrumental in our life. But what does it mean to be an aunt in 2026?Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chef Ham El-Waylly straddles two very different worlds: fine dining and home cooking. In his new cookbook, he shares the recipes and memories that bring it all together.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is another war happening in the Middle East. The challenges service members are facing are quite different than they were in years past. Today, we get an update on the Connecticut Army National Guard and hear what's being done to support Guard units. We hear from active Guard members and the mental health workers supporting these troops. Guests: Staff Sgt. Camryn Rawlings: 6th Recruiting and Retention Battalion, Connecticut Army National Guard Col. Michael Lynch: Former Commander of the 1-102nd Infantry, Connecticut Army National Guard Robert Haswell: LCSW and Section Chief for Managed Services Connecticut Mental Health and Addiction Services Albert Guillorn: LMFT and overseer of the Embedded Clinician program that places licensed clinicians to drill with Guard units Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tick activity is on the rise. Connecticut scientists are seeing unseasonably high levels of tick activity in the state this year. That uptick carries big potential impacts for human health. Lyme disease is one of the many diseases these parasites can carry. We ask what you can do to protect yourself. We’ll also get the latest on another environmental hazard with big health impacts in Connecticut – air pollution. Guests: Katie Dykes: Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Dr. Neeta Connally: Professor at WCSU and director WCSU Tick-borne prevention Laboratory Goudarz Molaei: Research scientist, medical entomologist and director of Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance Program at The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to take a break? Going on a walk or doodling during a meeting? Maybe turning off your phone and reading a book? For author Melissa Febos, years of destructive relationships left her in need of a different kind of break — giving up sex. She embarked on a year-long journey of abstinence from romantic and sexual relationships, documenting what she discovered about herself in “The Dry Season: A Memoir of Pleasure in a Year Without Sex.” Guests: Melissa Febos: author of five books, including "The Dry Season: A Memoir of Pleasure in a Year Without Sex" Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour, we’re exploring the history of tap dance in America. Tap was first developed as a fusion of footwork styles with roots in Africa and Ireland. Over the decades, tap legends like Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Eleanor Powell, and Gregory Hines popularized the artform and brought it to the national stage. Local dancers, choreographers, and teachers join us to discuss how they are keeping the rich legacy of tap dance alive in their work today. GUESTS: Kevin Ramsey: Chair of the Theater Division, University of Hartford Ralph Perkins: Associate Professor of Dance and Music Theater, University of Hartford  Katie Cavenagh: founder of the Connecticut Tap Collaborative Jillian McNamara: founder of the American Dance Collaborative Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired on December 2, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode originally aired in 2025. Dry January is a month-long campaign that revolves around cutting out alcohol or reducing alcohol intake for the month of January. Today’s guests say that life without alcohol can be joyous, and they’re creating spaces for the sober and sober curious to try it out. We talk to two owners of sober spaces in our state, and try out some mocktails they’ll bring to share. We also hear how our relationship with alcohol is changing overall. Research shows that Gen Z is becoming the sober generation. Here's a list of the mocktails sampled in this episode: Ghia - Le Spritz Sumac and Chili Athletic Brewing Company - Wits Peak Saint Viviana Non-Alcoholic Sauvignon Blanc Odyssey Elixir - Dragon Fruit Lemonade Three Spirits Livener GUESTS: Dr. J Craig Allen MD: Medical Director at Rushford and Vice President of Addiction Services at Hartford Healthcare Frances McGrath: Founder of Reframe: A Dry Spot in Willimantic Bobbi Malateseta: Creator of 3-2-1 No Kidding Sober Space and Bottle Shop in Naugatuck   Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Black holes aren’t just the stuff of science fiction; they’re real astronomical objects so dense, so massive, that nothing, not even light, escapes from them. Today, we’re getting lost in the void. Yale Astrophysicist Priya Natarajan joins us for an hour to talk about her research on these extraordinary objects. Last year, she was named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2024 for her research on how black holes form. Later, you don’t have to be a scientist to look up and appreciate the cosmos. We hear from planetariums and astronomical societies in our state that are connecting stargazers and space lovers around Connecticut. GUESTS: Priyamvada Natarajan: theoretical astrophysicist and Professor of Astronomy at Yale University Al Washburn: member at large and former president of the Astronomical Society of New Haven Brian Koehler: Associate Director of the Treworgy Planetarium at the Mystic Seaport Museum Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired February 27, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Success isn’t just about talent or intelligence – it’s about how we handle our emotions. Marc Brackett, founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, says emotional regulation is a skill, one that can be taught and practiced like any other. This hour, he joins us to talk about why our feelings matter, what happens when we ignore them, and how adults can get better at managing them. We’ll also hear how schools across Connecticut are helping kids build emotional intelligence from a young age. Marc Brackett: Ph.D., founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, author of “Dealing with Feeling: Use Your Emotions to Create the Life You Want.”  Where We Live is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired on December 1, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What meal brings you back to childhood? This hour, two local children’s authors share how their young protagonists find meaning in the kitchen, using food as a tool to explore culture, loss, and belonging.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best-selling author Wally Lamb spent nine years working on his newest book, "The River Is Waiting." In this time, he wrestled with self-doubt, navigated his own sobriety journey and worked as a teacher at York Correctional Institution, Connecticut’s only women’s prison. His new book explores addiction, reckoning and forgiveness, and the injustice that exists in prison today. It follows one man’s experience in prison after being convicted of involuntary manslaughter for the death of his son. GUEST: Wally Lamb: author of "The River Is Waiting." He is also the author of "She’s Come Undone" and "I Know This Much Is True." Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired August 19, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into the Renaissance Faire and you’ll be greeted with a scene out of time — dueling knights, vendors hawking their wares and royal proclamations.   Today, we'll take you to a faire and bring you voices from a realm filled with magic and whimsy. We'll also hear from the organizers of the Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire and the Connecticut Renaissance Faire.   We learn what goes into organizing these festivals, what it is like to perform there, and what keeps people coming back year after year.   GUESTS: Isaac Moss: Summer intern at Connecticut Public and recent graduate of Wesleyan University Coco Cooley: Summer intern at Connecticut Public and student at Wesleyan University Eric Tetreault: Co-Founder and Marketing Director at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire Daniel Greenwolf: Co-Owner of the Connecticut Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Fair This episode originally aired on July 29, 2025.   Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think of creativity, you might think of aha moments, sudden bursts of inspiration, and perhaps the dreaded writer’s block! But creativity isn’t a skill limited to those working in the arts. Author and researcher Zorona Ivecvic Pringle says that creativity is a trait that can build slowly and steadily over time. Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, Ph.D., Senior Research Scientist at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. Author of The Creativity Choice: The Science of Making Decisions to Turn Ideas into Action. Today, she joins us for the hour to talk about the science behind creativity and innovation and ways to explore these skills in everyday life. GUEST: Zorana Ivecevic Pringle: Research Center at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author The Creativity Choice: The Science of Making Decisions to Turn Ideas into Action Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired June 26, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you remember a teacher who changed the course of your life? Maybe it was someone who helped you find your voice? Or someone who challenged you to think differently? This hour, we’re exploring the impact of great mentors – those who shape us both in and beyond the classroom. Sarah Ruhl, author of the new book, “Lessons from My Teachers” shares personal stories and reflects on the lasting power of mentorship. GUESTS: Sarah Ruhl: Author of “Lessons from My Teachers.” Sarah is also a playwright, two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist, a Tony Award nominee, and the recipient of the MacArthur Genius Fellowship.    This episode originally aired on June 2, 2025. Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What meal instantly takes you back to childhood? Whether it’s a dish made with grandparents or a recipe passed down through generations, food has the power to unlock memories.  This hour, two local children’s authors share their belief in food’s ability to connect us. They discuss their latest novels, the challenges they face in an industry that often pigeonholes writers of color, and how they tackle complex emotions in stories for young readers. GUESTS: Debbi Michiko Florence: author of children’s and middle grade books including her latest, Last Chance Academy: A Study in Secrets Caela Collins: owner of Caela Enterprises, LLC, and author of Food Is Love This episode originally aired on May 5, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Born in Pittsburgh, Michael Luo is the son of Chinese immigrants. He attended Harvard, and later became a reporter at the New York Times and today he is the Executive Editor at The New Yorker. One rainy afternoon in 2016, he was standing on the sidewalk with his family and some friends after church, trying to decide where to go to lunch when a stranger accosted him and his family. “Go back to China,” she said. Today, he joins us for the hour to talk about his new book on the hidden history of brutality and violence that so many Chinese Americans faced at the turn of the century. GUEST: Michael Luo: Executive Editor for the New Yorker, and author of the book Strangers in the Land: Exclusion, Belonging, and the Epic Story of the Chinese in America Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired May 20, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reading can take us on adventures beyond our own backyards but perhaps not too far! Amity Gaige is the author of Heartwood. It explores the story of one woman who gets lost on the Appalachian Trail. Did you know this trail runs through Connecticut? And Ethan Rutherford is the author of North Sun: the Voyage of the Whaleship Esther. Connecticut was once home to one of the largest whaling ports in the world. These local authors join us for an hour to talk about their new books and we want to hear what you’re reading right now! GUESTS: Amity Gaige: author of four books including her latest, Heartwood. She also teaches creative writing at Yale. Ethan Rutherford: author of North Sun: the Voyage of the Whaleship Esther. He teaches creative writing at Trinity College.   This episode originally aired on April 10, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connecticut’s kelp industry is booming! This versatile type of seaweed is farmed right off Connecticut’s shoreline and used in a variety of cuisines, fertilizers, lotions, and more!   This hour, we’re joined by local kelp farmers and experts for a deep dive into aquaculture’s fastest growing industry. We’ll look at how chefs are using kelp in their favorite recipes and why seaweed is a powerful force against climate change.   GUESTS: Suzie Flores: co-owner of Stonington Kelp Co. Zachary Gordon:  Assistant Extension Educator, Connecticut Sea Grant Eric Dawson: Director of Program Innovation, Yellow Farmhouse This episode originally aired on April 14, 2025. Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour, we’ll explore climate change’s impact on many whale populations – from Belugas in the Arctic Ocean to North Atlantic right whales off the coast of New England. We’ll hear how studies conducted on Beluga whales at Mystic Aquarium are helping scientists better understand what factors threaten their survival in the wild. And later, scientists working on a research initiative called “Project CETI” are using AI technology to learn the language of Connecticut’s state animal: the sperm whale. GUESTS: Eve Zuckoff: Climate and Environment Reporter, CAI  Tracy Romano: Ph.D., Senior Research Scientist of Marine Sciences, Mystic Aquarium Gašper Beguš: Associate Professor, Dept. of Linguistics, UC Berkeley Kathryn Hulick: Science Journalist, Science News Explores Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired on February 24, 2025.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new retail trend known as “Sephora Kids,” refers to tweens and young teens who emulate the beauty and skincare routines of adults. Beauty retailer, Sephora, has seen their customer base of 9 to 12 year-olds double in the past five years. That’s according to Forbes. But healthcare experts warn that many beauty and skincare products contain ingredients that are harmful to children. Connecticut’s Attorney General, William Tong, has launched an investigation into Sephora’s marketing strategies aimed at kids, tweens and teens. This hour, we explore the beauty industry’s impact on children, and how local leaders are inspiring confidence that is more than skin-deep.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour, we’re exploring the history of tap dance in America. Tap was first developed as a fusion of footwork styles with roots in Africa and Ireland. Over the decades, tap legends like Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Eleanor Powell, and Gregory Hines popularized the artform and brought it to the national stage. Local dancers, choreographers, and teachers join us to discuss how they are keeping the rich legacy of tap dance alive in their work today. GUESTS: Kevin Ramsey: Chair of the Theater Division, University of Hartford Ralph Perkins: Associate Professor of Dance and Music Theater, University of Hartford  Katie Cavenagh: founder of the Connecticut Tap Collaborative Jillian McNamara: founder of the American Dance Collaborative Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired on December 2, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mohegan Tribe—a sovereign and federally recognized Indian tribe in Southeastern Connecticut—has a longstanding belief in the power of storytelling. This oral tradition is a form of spoken record-keeping. Stories can often capture a deeper and fuller understanding of culture and beliefs than historical texts. This hour, we talk to Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian. Melissa is part of a long line of “culture bearers,” tasked with keeping the traditions of the Mohegan Tribe alive through stories. GUESTS: Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the Mohegan Tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Poet laureates do a lot more than write poetry. Since 1985, Connecticut state poet laureates have worked to promote the literary arts and poetry throughout the Nutmeg state, visiting schools, performing spoken word and passing on poetry to the next generation of writers. There is no straight path to this position. Some of our guests today have been writing poetry all their lives. Others got bitten by the poetry bug a little later. Today, three poet laureates from around our state join us in the studio. GUESTS: Antoinette Brim Bell: Connecticut State Poet Laureate Nadia Sims: Manchester Poet Laureate Frederick-Douglass Knowles II: Hartford Poet laureate Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This show originally aired on August 13, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the author of the children’s book My Mama is a Pilot, Saba Shahid says she wants children to feel “represented and valued” through her stories. Only 1% of commercial airline pilots are women of color. And Saba Shahid’s path to becoming a pilot is a little bit different than most. It actually started as a pandemic hobby! Saba Shahid is this year’s recipient of the Girl Scouts Legacy of Leadership Award. She joins us for the hour to talk about her remarkable career, and her work as a Lifetime Girl Scout. GUESTS: Saba Shahid: Author, pilot, and recipient of this year's Girl Scouts of Connecticut 2024 Legacy of Leadership Award Elicia Pegues Spearman: CEO of the Girl Scouts of Connecticut Stephanie Abrams: President & CEO of the New England Air Museum Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired September 17, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking, also known as breakdancing, made its debut at the Olympics this summer. But the sport has an illustrious history. This hour, we take you from the streets of the Bronx to the global stage.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carolyn Kuan has been the music director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra since 2011. This hour, we speak to her about her work as a conductor, and the driving forces behind her music. Like many organizations, Hartford Symphony Orchestra has put forth diversity and inclusivity commitments stating that they are, quote “diversifying programming by considering race, ethnicity and gender identity in the composers whose music performed.” We talk about how the orchestra is striving to become more inclusive and diverse, and what that work looks like. We’ll also hear from Tyler Kline, he’s a composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a radio program that features work from the great living composers, especially those with underrepresented backgrounds. You can listen to the Modern Notebook on Connecticut Public on Saturdays at 10pm. GUESTS: Carolyn Kuan: Music Director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra Tyler Kline: composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a program by PRX, and host of the podcast "Music/Maker" Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Dylan Reyes contributed to this show which originally aired May 28, 2024Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mohegan Tribe—a sovereign and federally recognized Indian tribe in Southeastern Connecticut—has a longstanding belief in the power of storytelling. This oral tradition is a form of spoken record-keeping. Stories can often capture a deeper and fuller understanding of culture and beliefs than historical texts. This hour, we talk to Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian. Melissa is part of a long line of “culture bearers,” tasked with keeping the traditions of the Mohegan Tribe alive through stories. GUESTS: Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the Mohegan Tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every presidential election, campaigns flood our TVs with political ads. Back in 1952, “Ike for President” became the very first political advertisement on TV. Dwight Eisenhower's campaign may have been the first to use television like this. But it’s certainly not the last. Today, more than 70 years later, political ads are everywhere. In recent weeks, both the Kamala Harris and Donald Trump campaigns have ramped up their advertising. And it’s no longer just on our TV screens; it’s on social media platforms, too. This hour, we’re looking at political advertising during the 2024 election cycle from the messages we’re seeing to how that impacts what we do at the ballot box. What kinds of messages are you seeing? GUEST: Erika Franklin Fowler: Professor of Government at Wesleyan University and co-director of the Wesleyan Media Project Note: The ad from Rep. Jahana Hayes's campaign played in this episode originally aired in 2022 and was featured on the campaign's website homepage at the time of this broadcast. This episode originally aired on August 24, 2024. Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dating in 2024 can be tough. There are no shortage of stories about dating in the age of Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and more! But today, we're going to talk about dating, and falling in love, when you're an older adult. Last fall, the spinoff show “The Golden Bachelor” started a national conversation about falling in love in midlife and beyond. Today we hear from experts about dating in this age range, and we’ll even get to hear some love stories that will put "The Notebook" to shame. And if you are dating or have fallen in love, at any age, we want to hear from you! GUESTS: Dr. Kristina Zdanys: Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Division Chief for Geriatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at UConn Health Chip Conley: Founder & CEO of the Modern Elder Academy Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired February 16, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many wine tastings are about evaluating the aroma, balance and tannin. But for some people, wine is about so much more than that. It’s about history, community, and memory. Less than 1% of wineries in the United States are owned by Black connoisseurs. But that is starting to change. And with more makers, lovers and sellers of color coming into this industry, who consumes and enjoys wine is evolving too. Today, we hear from Black and brown winemakers and enthusiasts in Connecticut. GUESTS: Donna Moore: Winemaker at Sunset Hill Vineyard in Lyme, Connecticut Marissa Ocasio: Director of Education at Center Wine and Spirits in Glastonbury Jennifer Regan Lefebvre: Professor of History at Trinity College, Connecticut and author of the book Imperial Wine: How the British Empire Made Wine’s New World Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More workers than ever are working a hybrid work schedule - part time in the office and part time at home. According to a Gallup Poll, nearly 40% of hybrid workers can set their own schedule. Yet burnout feels more apparent than ever before. Many offices are searching to find solutions to provide better work-life balance including the four day work week. Today, we revisit this topic and explore others that claim to give employees more of their time back. And we want to hear from you. What’s your schedule like in the office these days? Would you rather work a four day week? GUESTS: Alex Soojung-Kim Pang: Director of Research and Innovation at 4-Day Week Global Lynne C Vincent: Associate Professor of Management, Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University Robert C. Bird: Professor of Business Law, School of Business at University of Connecticut Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired April 30, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even before the pandemic, half of all adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. In 2023, a report from Surgeon General Vivek Murthy showed that loneliness and isolation has physical consequences like increased risk of heart disease, stroke and dementia. Murthy stressed how social connection is the key to individual and community health and well being. This idea of social connection is something that today’s guest has spent a lot of time focused on. Deb Bibbins is the Founder and CEO of For All Ages, an organization uniting older adults and younger generations, and its statewide initiative; the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness. We spoke to her at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven. She talks about how social connection is the foundation of our health. GUESTS: Deb Bibbins: Founder and CEO of For All Ages and the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness Listen back to our additional coverage on loneliness: What’s going on with loneliness? 'What's eating at America': Addressing the loneliness and isolation epidemic Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired on July 28, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cambodian genocide took the lives of up to three million people - between 1975 and 1979. Many were forced to work at labor camps where they faced abuse, torture and starvation. But this is only part one of the story. The lesser known part is the story of Preah Vihear Mountain, where over forty thousand refugees were forced to climb to their death. Many Cambodian refugees ended up in refugee camps in Thailand. But instead of being processed as refugees, they were forced on buses and driven to Preah Vihear Mountain, which is part of a mountain range between Thailand and Cambodia. Returning to Cambodia was a devastating experience. Not only were they forced back into the country, but the mountain was filled with landmines, and refugees had no food or water. They were forced to climb down the mountain side, and those who didn’t comply were gunned down Today, we heard from someone who experienced this firsthand. Bunseng Taing lives in Connecticut and is a survivor of this massacre. He joins us with his son, James Taing. Together, they produced the documentary film Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields. GUESTS: James Taing: producer of Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields Bunseng Taing: survivor of the Cambodian genocide and author of Under the Naga Tail Jenny (JHD) Heikkila Diaz: Professional Learning Coordinator, Connecticut Council for the Social Studies and the Activist in Residence, UConn Asian & Asian American Studies Institute Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Music used in the broadcast: "Violin Sneha" by Keo Sokha Sarika Keo “Mad Because of Loving You" by Sinn Sisamouth Come Again Tomorrow by Yol Aularong Dylan Reyes helped produced this broadcast that originally aired May 21, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year, we produce a summer reading hour to talk about some of our favorite books of this year, and give you recommendations of the best beach reads. And this year, we’re diving into the illustrious, the notorious, the infamous paperback: the romance novel. There’s a lot of stigma attached to romance reading, especially within the reading community. But this top grossing genre is actually one of the most popular book genres in the world. Today, we go beyond harlequin bodice rippers and Fabio and dive into the world of romance with our panel. Got a favorite romance novel or love story? We want to hear from you. GUESTS: AK Nevermore: president of the Connecticut Romance Writers of America and author living in Connecticut Michelle Smith: President/Owner The BookSmiths Shoppe, LLC. in Danbury Lauren Anderson: Founder of Possible Futures Bookspace in New Haven. Authors featured in this broadcast: AK Nevermore Kristan Higgins Amy Neff JJ Graham Krystal Marquis Chloe Liese Book recommendations from the staff at Connecticut Public Normal People, by Sally Rooney A Court of Thorns and Roses (series), by Sarah J Mass Fourth Wing (Empyrean series), - Rebecca Yarros Author Emily Henry Author Casey McQuiston The Selection, series by Kiera Cass Bridgeton, series by Julia Quinn The Princess Diaries, series by Meg Cabot Conversations with Friends, by Sally Rooney Persuasion by Jane Austin Dylan Reyes contributed to this episode which originally aired May 24, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, there were cities and towns that were all-white on purpose. These communities are known as "sundown towns." Because this practice was both formal and informal, researchers put together a database of these laws, customs and firsthand accounts, under the leadership of the late sociologist and civil rights champion James Loewen. At the peak of the exclusionary practice in 1970, an estimated 10,000 communities across the U.S. kept out African-Americans through "force, law, or custom." Many sundown suburbs also excluded Jewish and Chinese Americans, and other minority groups. There are 40 towns listed as possible or probable past sundown towns in Connecticut. This hour, we hear about this history and what it can tell us. You can add to this research too. GUESTS: Dr. Stephen Berrey: Assistant Professor of American Culture and History, University of Michigan Logan Jaffe: Reporter, ProPublica Paul Saubestre: Volunteer Researcher, Hamden Historical Society Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired November 27, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Garrard Conley published his first book in 2016, "Boy Erased". The bestselling memoir, relaying Conley's experience undergoing conversion therapy at 19, inspired a major motion picture two years later. This hour, Conley discusses his newest book and his first foray into fiction. "All the World Beside" explores queerness in Puritan New England. Set in 1700s Massachusetts and inspired by Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter," an affair unfolds between Arthur Lyman, a physician, and Nathaniel Whitfield, a reverend. GUESTS: Garrard Conley: Author, All the World Beside and Boy Erased Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 4.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beloved Muppet Elmo recently asked social media a simple question, "How is everybody doing?" The answers ranged from incredulous to raging. The trauma-dumping on Elmo begged the question: Are we burnt out? Burnout has been reported in many industries: Connecticut Public has previously covered burnout in health care, and among early child care educators and teachers, for example. When Where We Live covered burnout in the nonprofit world in 2022, our phone lines were flooded. This hour, we hear from Emily Ballesteros, a management coach and the author of the new book, The Cure for Burnout. She defines the phenomenon, and fields your questions. Plus, Elizabeth Thompson is a local news researcher focused on burnout in local journalism. A 2020 report from UNC found that more than one-quarter of American newspapers had shut down since 2005, forcing more than half of all local journalists out of the industry, and "leaving many remaining newsrooms staffed by a small number of reporters burdened by excessive workloads and unable to dedicate themselves to particular topics of local interest." GUESTS: Emily Ballesteros: Management Coach; Author, The Cure for Burnout Elizabeth Thompson: Local News Researcher, Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Local Media at the University of North Carolina Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show that originally aired February 29, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’re never too young to learn about climate change. Younger Americans are more likely to engage with the issue, according to research on Gen Z and Millennials from Pew. This hour, we hear from the authors of three children’s books about climate change, and taking action, including UConn sociologist Dr. Phoebe Godfrey, meteorologist Paul Douglas, environmental scientist Lena Champlin, and resident in psychiatry Jeremy Wortzel. GUESTS: Dr. Phoebe Godfrey: Professor in Residence of Sociology, University of Connecticut Dr. Jeremy Wortzel: Co-Author, Coco’s Fire: Changing Climate Anxiety Into Climate Action Dr. Lena Champlin: Co-Author and Illustrator, Coco’s Fire: Changing Climate Anxiety Into Climate Action Paul Douglas: Meteorologist; Author, A Kid's Guide to Saving the Planet: It's not Hopeless and We're Not Helpless Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 25.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve heard of Bigfoot and Nessie, but did you know Connecticut is home to a host of creatures, or "cryptids"? Cryptozoology is the study of animals whose existence is a matter of debate. While Bigfoot sightings have been reported where we live, sea serpents, the Glastonbury Glawackus, and plenty of others call Connecticut home. This hour, we hear from Patrick Scalisi and Valerie Ruby-Omen, the author and illustrator of a new field guide to this cast of Connecticut cryptids. Plus, Stephen Olbrys Gencarella explains how folklore can deepen our understanding of these fantastic creatures, and how the stories about them are shaped over time. Patrick Scalisi: Author, Connecticut Cryptids: A Field Guide to the Weird and Wonderful Creatures of the Nutmeg State Valerie Ruby-Omen: Illustrator, Connecticut Cryptids Stephen Olbrys Gencarella: Professor of Folklore Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show that originally aired on January 18, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"An act of translation is always an act of betrayal." This idea, and the questions it inspires, are central to author Rebecca or RF Kuang’s 2022 novel, Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution. As the title promises, the book also explores the nature of revolution and the "necessity of violence," in addition to those complex questions surrounding the art of translation. This hour, we revisit our conversation with the author, which was focused on the award-winning book, during an event organized by local bookseller RJ Julia. On the importance of student revolutions, Kuang reflects, "The student's weakness is precisely his allure. The fact that the student is so naïve and doesn't have the jadedness of somebody who's been through more; the fact that students are dreamers, that they are romantic idealists; that kind of hope, that kind of ability to imagine an alternate future is beautiful and it matters and I hope we keep seeing that." GUESTS: RF or Rebecca Kuang: Award-winning author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, Yellowface, and Katabasis (forthcoming). She has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale. Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired December 18, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maurice Sendak is often celebrated for his contributions to children’s book art. You’re likely familiar with Where The Wild Things Are, or even Higglety Pigglety Pop. But in the late artist’s own words, "I do not believe that I have ever written a children's book. I do not know how to write a children’s book. How do you set out to write a children’s book?" This hour, we’re exploring the Maurice Sendak Foundation in Ridgefield, where Sendak lived for forty years. There, the many layers of his artistic legacy live on, with the help of the experts and friends who knew and loved him best. We hear from them. Twelve years after the artist's passing, the Foundation and HarperCollins are releasing Ten Little Rabbits. GUESTS: Lynn Caponera: President and Treasurer, Maurice Sendak Foundation Dr. Jonathan Weinberg: Curator, Maurice Sendak Foundation Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired February 12, 2024.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicals known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water. This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown. Plus, Attorney General William Tong gives an update on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS. GUESTS: William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 22.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2015, journalist Elise Hu moved to South Korea to open the NPR Seoul bureau. During her time in South Korea, she witnessed the rise of K-beauty culture or “Korean beauty.” K-beauty encompasses a multitude of beauty treatments. It doesn’t just include luxury skincare lines, and expensive facemasks; there's also LED light therapy, injections, fillers, and a myriad of options for plastic surgery. These procedures are becoming an increasingly normal part of daily life in South Korea, but also in the United States. They are also more accessible than ever to anyone that wants to change the way they look. Although some are starting to question the pursuit of keeping up with today’s beauty standards, this multibillion dollar beauty industry isn't going away. Today, Elise Hu joins us on Where We Live to talk about her book Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital. We talk about the pursuit and pain of keeping up with today’s beauty standards. GUEST: Elise Hu: host of TED Talks Daily and also a host-at-large for NPR. She is the author of Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired September 19, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turtles are among one of the oldest reptiles to walk the planet. Although turtles often live long lifespans and are among some of the most resilient animals on the planet, human presence has meant a huge threat to their species.  In her new book Of Time and Turtles, Sy Montgomery says turtles live “slow.” She spent time working with the people who have dedicated their lives to rehabilitating these fascinating creatures, and she joins us to talk about her book. And Matt Patterson, fellow turtle lover, illustrator of this book and their accompanying picture book The Book of Turtles, joins us too. He is also a wildlife artist and sculptor. We'll learn about what’s being done to care for and protect these animals. GUESTS: Sy Montgomery: Author of Of Time and Turtles Matt Patterson: Illustrator of The Book of Turtles and wildlife artist Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired October 3, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing up as a transracial adoptee, Angela Tucker's friends, family, and even strangers would make comments and assumptions about what her life would have been like if she hadn’t been adopted. Angela Tucker is the author of the book "You Should Be Grateful": Stories of Race, Identity, and Transracial Adoption and she is Executive Director of the Adoptee Mentoring Society. Today, we talk about the intricacies of navigating life as a transracial adoptee. For years, adoption stories have been told from the point of view of the adoptive parents. Angela says it’s time to flip the script and let adoptees tell their stories. Later, we hear from an adoption agency and learn about the type of conversations they have with potential transracial adoptive parents. Check out the UConn Health Adoption Assurance Program to find more information about transracial adoption. GUESTS: Angela Tucker: Author of the book, "You Should Be Grateful": Stories of Race, Identity, and Transracial Adoption and Executive Director of the Adoptee Mentoring Society Laura Sullivan: Chief Program Officer at Just Choice, a pro-choice adoption agency Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired December 8, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States for decades, putting much of the focus squarely and rightly on cardiovascular disease. But what about congenital heart conditions, something affecting your heart since birth? There are 13 million adults living with congenital heart disease, and that number has grown as treatments advance; survival rates have improved by 75% since the 1940s. But those diagnoses can come later in life, and even with sure signs, the need for specialized, lifelong care is often unmet. This hour, we're joined by the co-authors of Healing Hearts and Minds: A holistic approach to coping well with congenital heart disease. Plus, we hear from one of 50 clinics accredited by the Adult Congenital Heart Association in the U.S., right here in Connecticut. GUESTS: Tracy Livecchi: Social Worker; Co-Author, Healing Hearts and Minds: A holistic approach to coping well with congenital heart disease Dr. Liza Morton: Psychologist; Co-Author, Healing Hearts and Minds Dr. Robert Elder: Associate Professor of Pediatrics (Cardiology) and Internal Medicine (Cardiology); Director, Adult Congenital Heart Program; Director Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Program, Pediatric Cardiology Cat Pastor contributed to this program which originally aired October 11.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the last fiscal year, the army alone missed their recruiting goal by 25%. All branches of the military are struggling to recruit new cadets. With an all-volunteer service, the military relies on recruitment efforts to get more people to serve. But fewer Americans than ever are eligible to do so. And attracting the next generation of cadets has been a challenge. Today, we talk about the military recruiting crisis. We will hear from Captain Benjamin Keffer, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Recruiting Command. Later, we hear how some extremist groups are working to get veterans and others with tactical experience into their organizations. GUESTS: Dr. Nora Bensahel: Professor of the Practice at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and a Contributing Editor, War on the Rocks Captain Benjamin Keffer: Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Recruiting Command Sonner Kehrt: Investigative Reporter at the War Horse and Coast Guard Veteran Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired on October 6, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.