Where We Live

When you think of horror fiction what comes to mind for you? Maybe the classics like "Frankenstein," "Dracula," or "The Shining?" Like many genres, horror has evolved with the times to encompass all things terrifying. The spooky season is in full swing and we have a great line up of horror fiction to keep you entertained and spooked all season long. Today, we talk about our favorites. GUESTS: AK Nevermore: president of the Connecticut Romance Writers Association and author living in Connecticut Andrew Liptak: author of the newsletter, Transfer Orbit, a newsletter about science fiction, writing and the future Stephanie Gagnon: host of the Books in the Freezer Podcast Jane Frankel: author and librarian at the Warehouse Point Library in East Windsor Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professional women's sports are having a moment. This hour, we hear from soccer player and Connecticut native Alyssa Naeher ahead of her U.S. Women's National Soccer Team retirement ceremony, and from Quinnipiac University's Women's Head Rugby Coach, Becky Carlson, about the rising status of that sport after one of her former athletes became a global celebrity around the last Olympics. GUESTS: Alyssa Naeher: American professional soccer player and Connecticut native. She currently plays for Chicago Stars FC. She was part of the U.S. Women’s National Team from 2014 to 2024, winning a World Cup in 2019 and a Gold Medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics Becky Carlson: Women's Rugby Head Coach at Quinnipiac University Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fifty years ago, 20th Century Fox released the iconic cult classic film, Rocky Horror Picture Show. After being launched on the midnight film circuit, it developed a fan following like no other. Today, we hear from the one and only Barry Bostwick. Fans of the film know him as the original Brad Majors. He says that after fifty years, the film is still bringing people together. "I think this is necessary, in a way, to bring us back to some kind of humanity," shared Bostwick speaking on Where We Live. "They always say, Don't dream it, be it, that's what our thing is. That’s our Gospel: don't dream it, be it." Bostwick will be at the Warner Theater in Torrington on October 30 with the The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary Spectacular Tour. GUESTS: Barry Bostwick: Actor and performer Michayla Savitt: Connecticut Public State Government Reporter Upcoming Rocky Horror Picture Show shadowcast performances in Connecticut RKO Army: Friday, Oct. 24, 9:00pm at Westbrook Cinemas, in Westbrook, CT The Come Again Players: Saturday, Oct. 25, 7:30 pm at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, CT 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.

In 2018, 33-year-old Ryan Bode Moriarty died of a heroin overdose. He was a musician, artist and T-shirt designer. He created linoleum block carvings, and would print all his shirt designs by hand. After his death, Ryan's mother, Patricia Bode, found one of his linoleum blocks carved with the words "Remember Love." This discovery inspired the Remember Love Recovery Project and sent Bode on a mission to destigmatize addiction. It's a mission of vital urgency. After months of steady declines, overdose deaths in America are now on the rise. During National Substance Use & Misuse Prevention Month, we hear from those working to destigmatize addiction and get harm reduction tools into the community. Has addiction impacted you or someone you love? We want to hear from you. GUESTS: Patricia Bode: Associate Professor and Coordinator of Art Education at Southern Connecticut State University. She is also the founder and president the Remember Love Recovery Project Justin Phillips: Chief Executive Officer of the Overdose Lifeline Dr. J Craig Allen: Medical Director at Rushford and Vice President of Addiction Services at Hartford Healthcare Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being financially literate is important when navigating tough times and tough markets. Today, we get an update from financial experts and educators from around our state, and hear what you can do to stay financially resilient. Later, when is the best time to start planning for retirement? We hear from one high school teacher who’s passing on the knowledge of financial planning to her students. Got a question about personal finance? GUESTS: Barbara Angelicola-Manzolli: Business Education Teacher at Lewis S. Mills High School in Burlington Christian Sherill: Director of Growth and Advocacy with Next Gen Personal Finance Ben Fuchs: Chief Investment Officer at Fuchs Financial. He’s also the co-host of the new podcast Fuchs Around & Cal Them Out Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chef Pyet DeSpain is making her mark on the culinary world. A member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and with Mexican-American roots, she’s bringing fresh flavors — and long-overlooked traditions — to the table. This hour, she’ll share stories of her culinary journey, one that took her from experiencing homelessness to winning Gordon Ramsay’s reality TV cooking competition, "Next Level Chef." And later, she’ll offer up advice on how you can cook more authentically. GUESTS: Pyet DeSpain: A member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and Mexican-American chef. She's the winner of Gordon Ramsay’s competition, "Next Level Chef," and author of “Rooted In Fire: A Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking” Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you doing any leaf peeping where you live? The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection joins us to talk about making the most of the fall season in Connecticut and the best spots to see all the natural wonders of our state. And bird lovers, this show is for you! Fall is a big migration time for birds. Connecticut Audubon Society joins us, too. Later, have you been feeling a little stuffy or sneezy? Got itchy eyes? It might be fall allergies. We learn what you can do to combat it. GUESTS: Katie Dykes: Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Tom Anderson: Director of Communications, Connecticut Audubon Society Dr. Josh Mosdale: Primary care physician and medical director of clinically integrated network at Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in another government shutdown. The federal government shut down at the start of October following a standoff between Senate Republicans and Democrats. Now, the Trump administration is proposing more federal worker layoffs, calling it an “unfortunate consequence to a government shutdown.” Today, we hear how the government shutdown could impact local government services, programs and workers in Connecticut. Later, Christianity in America is at a crossroads. We hear from two Connecticut church leaders on how the current political climate is influencing faith communities locally, and across the U.S. GUESTS: Andrea Barton Reeves: Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Social Services Scott McLean: Professor of Political science and Faculty Director of the Honors Program at Quinnipiac University Kate Dias: teacher at the Manchester School district and is president of the Connecticut Education Association Pastor Shawn Fisher: Bloomfield Congressional Church Rev. Dr. Stephen G. Ray Jr.: Minister of United Church on the Green in New Haven Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ashley Bouder spent two decades as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, performing some of the most physically demanding roles in the repertory. Now, she’s stepping into a new role as executive director of Eastern Connecticut Ballet school. This hour, she reflects on the physical and mental challenges of a career in ballet, from injuries to the sacrifices required to stay at the top. She also talks about the lack of support for parents in the industry and the changes she hopes to see. GUESTS: Ashley Bouder: former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, and current executive director of Eastern Connecticut Ballet Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breast cancer can happen at any age. But young adults that are diagnosed with breast cancer often have a different journey than their older counterparts. Treatment for breast cancer can bring on temporary or permanent menopause for women in early adulthood. This means navigating a slew of additional symptoms, on top of a life-changing diagnosis. It also means making difficult decisions about family planning. Today, we hear from a breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed at age 40, and learn how she’s using her story to educate others. GUESTS: Kate Hayden Ames: breast cancer survivor living in Connecticut Dr. Niamey Wilson: Medical Director of the Breast Program at Hartford Healthcare Dr. Nancy Borstelmann: Co-Director of the Early Onset Cancer Program at Yale Cancer Center Anne Michaud: Yoga teacher for cancer survivors and oncology nurse Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raising kids is never an easy task. But today’s parents are really struggling. Nearly half of parents say that most days they are so stressed, they cannot function. This stress goes beyond the costs and demands of raising a child. Many parents feel like they are preparing their children for a future that is difficult to understand and predict. Even therapists admit, there’s no playbook for parents. But there are some things you can to do (maybe) worry a little bit less and still raise a great kid. Today, we talk about managing parental anxiety, burnout and stress. GUESTS: Melissa Whitson: Professor of Psychology at the University of New Haven Rebecca Harvey: Professor at Southern Connecticut State University in the MFT Program Alexis AP Munson: LCSW based in North Haven, Connecticut George Gogas: LCSW at Charter Oak Therapeutic Services, LLC Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As kids get back to school, the political debate around who should get shots for COVID other illnesses is once again bubbling up. But another debate has risen as well. Last week, President Trump urged pregnant women to “tough it out” and use Tylenol sparingly during pregnancy. The administration claimed an unproven link between the painkiller acetaminophen and autism. It’s a statement that has been widely discredited by medical experts. Today, Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani joins us to answer your questions on vaccines, Tylenol use and more. We also hear from the Autism Self Advocacy Network. GUESTS: Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health Colin Killick: executive director of the Washington-based Autistic Self Advocacy Network Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think of farm animals, the term “endangered species” probably doesn’t come to mind. In Scotland, Connecticut, Iris Creek Farm is working to raise and preserve a rare, endangered breed of sheep. Today, we hear what local farmers are doing to raise more rare livestock and how this is impacting agriculture everywhere. GUESTS: Tess Terrible: Senior Producer for Where We Live Jeanette Beranger: Senior Program Manager at the Livestock Conservancy Mackenzie White: Diversified Livestock Extension Field Based Specialist at the UConn Extension College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samin Nosrat's 2017 debut “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” was a breakout hit in the cooking world — teaching people of all skill levels the building blocks of flavor. Nosrat won a James Beard award and the book was adapted into a Netflix documentary. After her massive success, Nosrat found herself in a low. She was diagnosed with clinical depression, and said the joy she once found with cooking, stopped being attainable. But it was cooking for community, and for her found family, that brought her back. Nosrat's new book focuses on bringing families of all types to the table, and building community through great food. Nosrat recently joined us to talk about her book, and what's inspiring her today. GUEST: Samin Nosrat: cook, teacher and author of “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” and “Good Things: Recipes and Rituals to Share with People You Love" 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.

Spotted lanternflies are showing up across Connecticut, but they might not be as catastrophic as you think. This hour, we talk with an expert about the real threat these insects pose and what you can do if you spot one. Meanwhile, Connecticut’s push toward clean energy is being put to the test, and mental health professionals are seeing an uptick in climate-related anxiety. We hear how therapists are helping people stay grounded and how students are leading the way on environmental action. GUESTS: Gale Ridge: associate scientist, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Ricky Jordan: manager of energy efficiency, Eversource Doug Geoffrey: participant in the first Summer Green STEP cohort Áine Pennello: Report for America environmental and climate change reporter, CT Public Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Crystal Emery started to fall down, without tripping, everyone said she was just clumsy. But in 1981, Crystal Emery was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. For some people living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, the symptoms can be limited to body weakness and muscle atrophy. But for the Emery, the disease progressed. She lost the use of her legs and hands. Today, she uses a wheelchair and sometimes needs a breathing machine. But despite her circumstances, she is anything but limited. Emery remained committed to her artistic craft, working as an artist, author, filmmaker, activist and comedian. Today, she joins us to talk about her work. Later, we get an update on the future of disability services in Connecticut, and beyond. Advocates fear that decades of advocacy for better disability services, and more inclusivity, could be walked back among federal funding cuts. Learn more about Emery's performance in New Haven here. GUESTS: Crystal Emery: filmmaker, author and comedian Joy Houlder: Art Director at the Art Connection Studio in Hartford Tobey Partch-Davies: Executive Director of Disability Rights Connecticut 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.

Connecticut native and bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert’s new memoir All the Way to the River tells the story of her late partner, Rayya Elias. The two began as fast friends, then fell in love. But as they faced tragedy together, their shared struggles with addiction put them on a collision course with catastrophe. This hour, Gilbert joins us to talk about Rayya – “the love of her life” – and what she discovered about herself, about love, and about the sanctity of truth in writing this deeply personal memoir. GUESTS: Elizabeth Gilbert: author of the new memoir, All the Way to the River. She is also the author of several other bestselling novels including Eat, Pray, Love and City of Girls. 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.

Sunday marked National Grandparents Day, which is a reminder of how deeply grandparents shape our lives. But not every grandparent fits the traditional mold. This hour, we explore unconventional grandparenting in our region, from neighborhoods built on intergenerational living to programs connecting older adults with children in need of guidance. GUESTS: Erika Keuster: CEO of Treehouse Foundation Holly Handfield: honorary grandparent, Treehouse Easthampton Margarita Laboy: Foster Grandparent Lead Program Specialist, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut Classie Sanders: Grandparent volunteer, Foster Grandparent Program Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fewer adults in the U.S. are reading for pleasure. So what does that mean for early readers? Establishing reading routines like story time can be important for brain development and lifelong literacy skills. Rahele Jomepour-Bell/Provided Today, it’s our fall reading show, and we’re dedicating the hour to young adult and children’s books. Our panel will share their favorites. If you have a young reader at home, we want to hear from you! What does story time look like in your household? GUESTS: Kym Powe: Children and Young adult Consultant for the Connecticut State Library Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason: Author of Grandmother Moon and 2024 Gilder Lehrman Institute Teacher of the Year Winsome Bingham: Children’s book author and Army Veteran Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Autumn can be a great time for rest and renewal. It’s not too late to enjoy the most of the season before we hunker down for the cold months ahead. Today, we’re talking about all our favorite Connecticut fall happenings and events. We'll also hear about some Connecticut Hidden Gems you'll definitely want to add to your fall bucket list. After a hot summer, what are you looking forward to this fall? GUESTS: Francesca Fontanez: Lead Social Media Editor at Connecticut Public Jared Benoff: Chief Operating Officer of Visit New England and Visit Connecticut Jordan Polon: Executive Director of the Hartford Business Improvement District Reverend Tracy Mehr-Muska: Assistant Director in the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life at Wesleyan University Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last Friday, a report confirmed a worse-case famine scenario in the Gaza Strip. Over a half a million people in Gaza, are facing catastrophic conditions that include malnutrition and starvation. Today, we hear what’s being done to treat malnutrition in Gaza and around the globe. Later, we hear what religious leaders, including Pope Leo, are doing to voice their concerns for these humanitarian crises. GUESTS: Jeanette Bailey: Global Practice Lead for Nutrition Research and Innovation at the International Rescue Committee John Grosso: Digital Editor at the National Catholic Reporter Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month, a glowing spiral appeared in Connecticut’s sky, briefly sparking wonder and speculation. While it turned out to be crystallized rocket fuel, the moment reminded us how easily our imaginations leap to the possibility of aliens. This hour we ask: Why are we so drawn to the idea of life beyond Earth? We’ll explore what these sparks of curiosity reveal about human imagination and our endless fascination with the universe. GUESTS: Jaime Greenring: Freelance writer, editor, teacher, and author of “The Possibility of Life” Kathryn Hulick: Science journalist, author of “The UFO Files” Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Practice for the fall sporting season is well under way. Today’s athletes are playing through the pain, in record high heat. This is something many of their coaches and trainers didn’t have to face during their athletic heydays. Although it might not feel like it today, the rest of the summer season is going to be sunny and hot. Today, we hear what's being done to prevent heatstroke, and keep athletes safe on and off the field. GUESTS: Áine Penello: Report for America Corps Member, reporting on the environment and climate change for Connecticut Public Rebecca Stearns: Chief Operating Officer for the Korey Stringer Institute at the University of Connecticut Dr. Glenn Lungarini: Executive Director of CAS-CIAC Chris Meyers: Director of Athletics and Student Activities at Newington High School 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."Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even frequent flyers can feel a flutter of nerves before takeoff. Security lines seem endless, seats feel smaller than ever, and turbulence can turn your stomach. Now, with national headlines about crashes and close calls, flight anxiety is on the rise. This hour, we talk to pilots and a flight attendant about whether flying is still one of the safest ways to travel. Plus, they’ll share tips to help you stay calm when the ride gets bumpy. GUESTS: Saba Shahid: Author, pilot, and recipient of this year's Girl Scouts of Connecticut 2024 Legacy of Leadership Award Tom Bunn: Retired pilot, licensed therapist, founder of SOAR Lynn VanOrt: Flight Attendant Instructor at The Travel Academy Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leaving prison can be a jarring experience. Reentry can be challenging under the best of circumstances. But a state housing crisis has made it harder. Landlords are less likely to rent to someone with a criminal record. Formerly incarcerated people are 10 times more likely to be homeless. Add in cuts to mental health services, job assistance and food insecurity programs, life is getting harder for many people who were previously incarcerated. Today, we’re talking about challenges facing the formerly incarcerated population upon release. GUESTS: Alpha Jalloh: formerly incarcerated person living in Connecticut Bryan "Love" Jordan: formerly incarcerated person living in Connecticut State Sen. Gary Winfield: Democrat representing the Tenth District in New Haven and West Haven Beth Hines: Executive Director of Community Partners in Action Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The number of adults seeking regular dental care, like cleanings and X-rays, is on the decline. Going to the dentist is probably not your favorite activity, but it's an important part of maintaining overall health. So why are so many people avoiding the dentist? There are several reasons, but one of the biggest is fear. Today, we talk with dental professionals about what the industry is doing to lessen anxiety and make better oral care more accessible for all. Looking for a way to pinpoint your fears and start a conversation with your dentist? Check out the Dental Fears patient form here. GUESTS: Kelly Robledo: Moderator on the Dental Fear Central Forum Lisa Perry Swain: Executive Director for the Connecticut Foundation for Dental Outreach State Representative Gary Turco: Executive Director of the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative 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 Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social Security is one of the most widely-used government programs in the country, but how much does the average American know about how it works? From eligibility and benefit amounts to how the trust fund is structured, this hour we’re offering a crash course on Social Security and how the federal program's uncertain future is impacting the retirement plans of people here in Connecticut. We’ll ask what’s driving concerns about the fund's long-term solvency, and what Congress might do about it. GUESTS: Robert Rodriguez: Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration Kenneth Couch: Professor, University of Connecticut’s Department of Economics Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There seems to be no limit to what artificial intelligence can produce and create. So how will artificial intelligence impact the way we make and critique art? Today, we hear how artists are using artificial intelligence in their work. We ask a Connecticut professor, and artists of all disciplines, if AI is good or bad for the creative process. We also explore a question: If AI is the author, can what it made really be called art? GUESTS: Kevin Ramsey: Assistant Professor of Theater at the University of Hartford Roger Beaty: Associate Professor of Psychology at Pennsylvania State University Clement Valla: Artist and the Department Head of the Art, Computation, and Sound BFA at the Rhode Island School of Design Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

University of Connecticut professor and artist Minnie Negoro first learned ceramics while imprisoned at a Japanese concentration camp in Wyoming. There, she produced tableware for the U.S. army and other incarceration camps. Despite the repression, Negoro discovered a lifelong love for pottery, which she shared with generations of students. Now, UConn is curating an exhibit to honor Negoro's work and legacy. Today, we hear about Negoro's journey as an artist, and as a teacher. GUESTS: Hana Maruyama: Assistant professor of Asian American Studies and Public History at the University of Connecticut Denise Pelletier: Professor of Art at Connecticut College Jason Oliver Chang: Associate Professor of History and director of the Asian and Asian American Studies Institute at the University of Connecticut 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.

Foreign aid accounts for 1% of the U.S. federal budget. These funds are used to fight famine and disease worldwide. This week, the Senate will debate cutting $7.9 billion earmarked for these efforts. In July, the Humanitarian Research Lab at Yale had federal funds rescinded. They are currently operating by with the help of individual donors. Today, we get an update on humanitarian crises and international conflicts around the globe. We'll also discuss the future of humanitarian aid in the United States and abroad. GUESTS: Lila Hassan: Independent Investigative Journalist Nathaniel Raymond: Executive Director of the Humanitarian Research Lab at the Yale School of Public Health Provash Budden: Deputy Senior Vice President of Emergency Programs at Americares Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers in Connecticut and beyond are being impacted by federal funding cuts. In May, the USDA made cuts to programs that help fund farms and food banks. More recently, the USDA recently cut DEI programming. This included programs on urban forestry, equitable land access and environmental justice. But we could see increased spending for other farm programs in the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Today, we speak to those working in the agricultural industry around our state. Last week, Governor Ned Lamont signed the CT Farm Bill. We’ll talk about what that means for farmers. GUESTS: Bryan Hurlburt: Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bonnie Burr: Department Head and Assistant Director of the Extension at the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources at the University of Connecticut Juan Pablo Yepes Tobón: Windham Community Food Network Coordinator Freedom Gerardo: Founder/Co-Owner of the Seamarron Farmstead, LLC Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shakespeare’s plays have been performed for over 400 years, but artists are still finding bold new ways to bring them to life. This hour, we’re joined by creatives behind two inventive productions hitting Connecticut stages this summer: one blends breakdancing with Hamlet, the other infuses A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the vibrant energy of Bollywood. We explore why these centuries-old stories continue to resonate, and how modern reinterpretations keep them relevant. GUESTS: Nina Pinchin: Director of Breakdancing Shakespeare, The Hartford Stage Brandon Couloute: Choreographer of Breakdancing Shakespeare, The Hartford Stage Rebecca Goodheart: Producing Artistic Director, Elm Shakespeare Company Deshik Vansadia: artistic director, The Shakespeare Co. of India Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we hear from the founder of ConnectiCon, a Connecticut-based convention that’s been bringing together fans for over 20 years. Like many conventions, it’s changed to evolve with the times. If you have ever attended a comic convention, you probably saw a lot of people dressed as their favorite characters. The act of cosplaying has exploded in recent years. We hear from cosplayers attending this year's convention. GUESTS: Matt Daigle: founder of ConnectiCon, a Connecticut pop-culture convention based in Hartford Paul Booth: professor of Media and Pop Culture at DePaul University Andrew Liptak: author of Cosplay: A History and of the newsletter, the Transfer Orbit Additional voices featured in this hour: Julie Wilk: cosplayer based in Boston, Massachusetts Andy Wolf: AndyMon Cosplay photography Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author and poet Ocean Vuong grew up in Hartford, Connecticut. It's a city he describes as having beautiful, vibrant life. His mother worked in a nail salon and his stepfather worked in manufacturing. Speaking about his mother and aunts, who immigrated from Vietnam, Vuong says he was raised by storytellers. Today, Vuong is one of the nation's most celebrated storytellers. He's winner of a prestigious MacArthur "genius" Grant and a tenured professor at New York University. His new book, "The Emperor of Gladness," is set in the fictional town of East Gladness, Connecticut. Vuong said he started writing the book to start to navigate grief after his mother’s death. He joined us to talk about his book, and how growing up in Connecticut shaped his writing. GUEST: Ocean Vuong: writer, professor and author of "The Emperor of Gladness" Chloe Wynn, Coco Cooley and Isaac Moss contributed to this hour. 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.

As more and more of our daily life moves online, digital access has become essential. But not everyone has the skills, or the tools, needed to keep up in a digital age. The Digital Equity Act was designed to help close the gap. But recent funding cuts by President Trump have stalled that progress. This hour, we explore how those cuts are affecting communities in Connecticut and beyond. We’ll hear how local institutions – like libraries – are working to keep people connected despite the challenges. GUESTS: P.R. Lockhart: Economic Development Reporter, CT Mirror Bonnie Solberg: Director of Public Services, Hartford Public Library Bridget Quinn: President and Chief Executive Officer, Hartford Public Library Dr. Elena Forzani: director of the Literacy Education and Reading Education programs and an assistant professor, Boston University Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think of foods that give you a sense of home, what comes to mind? Culturally connected foods are those ingredients, dishes and tastes that connect you back to your heritage and cultural identity. For the AAPI community, finding those foods can be challenging. In May, Where We Live host Catherine Shen hosted a panel discussion called “Cultural Food Systems Through the AAPI Lens” at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford. The panel discussed ways to expand access to these foods and increase food security for all communities in Connecticut. Mia Ayer: Policy Manager at the Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum Dr. Helen Wu: Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UConn Health Quan Tran: Senior Lecturer in Ethnicity, Race and Migration at Yale Vicheth Im: Connecticut organic farmer 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.