Connections Podcast
Evan Dawson hosts Connections, a talk show that explores topics relevant to the Rochester community. Listeners are encouraged to share their stories and pitch ideas for future episodes. The podcast also offers transcripts upon request via email.
Episodes
Indigenous perspectives on the American Revolution
As the country acknowledges America's 250th birthday, scholars are re-examining different facets of U.S. history. SUNY Geneseo is gearing up for a discussion about the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Local experts participating in the event say that authentic Indigenous perspectives are key to an accurate retelling of the Revolution and the 250 years of history that followed.
Trump administration loses its bid to revoke birthright citizenship
The Supreme Court of the United States has upheld the legal concept of birthright citizenship. But it was not a unanimous decision. We sit down with legal experts to examine what the justices said, and the implications of this decision. In studio:
Richard A. Dollinger, retired New York Court of Claims judge
Lucrecia Knapp, immigration attorney at Mancuso Brightman PLLC
---Connections is s
What does the Rochester City Mark say about the Flower/Flour City?
It's everywhere: from big city signs to the side of recycling bins to tattooed on people's bodies. The City Mark is one of Rochester's most recognizable symbols. Designed during a time of great social change, the mark is rooted in Rochester's dual identity as the Flower/Flour City. Now, 50 years after it was approved by City Council, what does the mark say about Rochester and the people w
The effort to diversify nonprofit boards of directors
Who gets a seat at the table when the decisions that shape our communities are made? Many of those decisions happen in a place most of us rarely think about: the boardrooms of nonprofit organizations. Across the Rochester region, hundreds of nonprofits receive millions of dollars in public funding and philanthropic support to serve the community. Yet for decades, many of the people those
Who are the greatest living American songwriters?
Recently, the New York Times and its music critics caused a bit of a dustup with its "30 Greatest Living American Songwriters" list. Tough assignment — and no list like that is going to make everyone happy. But the real drama happened in the responses: how the critics responded to criticism, and arguments for who should have been on that list. Musicians and writers — including Rick Beato,
'The Extraordinary Caterpillar'
Before they become butterflies or moths, caterpillars play a critical role in supporting biodiversity within our ecosystem. These creatures are a food source for birds and other insects; they support pollination; and their waste nourishes the soil. The importance of caterpillars is captured in Jeff McKay’s documentary film, “The Extraordinary Caterpillar.” The Broccolo B-Friendly Farm and
Reclaiming the 'hood'
This year marks the second season for the Hood 2 Hood Basketball Tournament. Every Sunday for the duration of the summer, neighborhood teams will meet at Gateway Park on Mt. Hope Avenue to compete for a trophy—and bragging rights. Organizers say the tournament is about bringing men together, from all sides of town, who might not usually get along. They say the tournament fosters peace, un
Shootings in Rochester drop, but illegal guns remain an issue
Shootings in Rochester have dropped significantly in recent years. According to reportingfrom WXXI's Gino Fanelli, in the first six months of this year, there were 43 shootings in Rochester. That's a precipitous drop from a pandemic era peak. Yet, the number of guns collected annually has remained relatively stable. An increasing number of illegal guns are being traced to New York dealers
What does it mean to be inclusively playful?
What is the value of play? WXXI education reporter Noelle Evans guest hosts this episode. Her guests are experts in play, and they say it's powerful: it can bring people together; it can foster learning and growth; and it can heal. But it’s not always accessible to everyone. What does it mean to be inclusively playful? We explore that question — from design to reality. Our guests:
Kendra
Freedom Walk examines Rochester's role on the Underground Railroad
Rochester was a noted stop on the Underground Railroad, and now, you can be part of an event retracing a route from Maryland to Canada. #FreedomWalk2026 is passing through Rochester this week. Participants making the 750-mile journey stop in various communities to collect narratives from the people who live there. In advance of Juneteenth — and on the 250th anniversary of American indepen
Danielle Ponder on her new song, 'Power'
International music star and Rochester native Danielle Ponder is back in town. She'll headline the Rochester Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, where she'll perform her new song, "Power." Ponder has signed to Dead Oceans, in partnership with Phoebe Bridgers. She joins us on "Connections" this hour to discuss the new song and a trip to Senegal that inspired it, her craft, songwriting in the
'Superteams' explores how to reduce burnout and increase team performance
What do the best teams do differently? It's a question that's at the heart of a new book by social psychologist Ron Friedman. In "Superteams," Friedman explains what the research says about the most successful teams. Spoiler alert: those teams aren't the ones that collaborate the most, get along best, or have fancy office perks. The best teams, as Friedman writes, balance collaboration wi
Iranian Americans react to the deal
With the Trump administration trumpeting the end of the war in Iran, we sit down with local Iranian Americans. Our panelists did not all agree on whether to support or oppose this war at the outset. How do they feel about it now? What are the prospects for freedom and human rights in their native Iran? We explore it. In studio:
Ghazal Dehghani, senior lecturer at RIT
Shahin Monshipour, fo
Behind the scenes of 'Antiques Roadshow'
"Antiques Roadshow" is coming to the Rochester area! The popular PBS series will visit Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford on Wednesday.* Three episodes from the event will air on PBS in 2027. But first, the "Roadshow" team joins us for a special "Connections" episode with a live audience at WXXI. Our guests take us behind the scenes to explain how the show is made and why the
'Funny Stuff: How Comedy Shaped American History'
What are the some of the most culturally significant pieces of comedy in American history? A Marx Brothers film? A Carol Burnett sketch? An infamous puffy shirt? The initial question inspires further questions: what qualifies as an important reflection of our society; how well known does the material need to be; does staying power matter? From vaudeville performers to satirists like Mark
What's the big deal about microplastics?
Microplastics are everywhere – in our water, in our food, and in our bodies. And while they are often the subject of headlines and new stories, researchers say there’s still a lot to learn about how they may harm us. According to local experts, Rochester is a hot spot for the study of microplastics and health. This week, experts from across the country will be in town for a symposium expl
Previewing the 2026 Rochester International Jazz Festival
It's Jazz Fest season! The Route's Hannah Maier is in the host chair this hour for a preview of the 2026 Rochester International Jazz Festival. This year's event runs June 19 through June 27 and includes more than 300 concerts performed by more than 1,77 artists. We hear from some of those artists this hour, as they discuss what it's like to perform in Rochester, the state of the music in
Candidates in the Democratic primary for New York Senate District 54
The June primary is just over two weeks away. Democrats in the 54th Senate District will see two names on the ballot when they head to the polls: Scott Comegys and Michael Mills. The candidates are vying for the opportunity to unseat Republican Senator Pam Helming in the general election. This hour, guest host Julie Philipp sits down with the candidates to discuss their backgrounds, platf
Forever Wild: How to manage record crowds in the Adirondacks
The Adirondack Mountains are becoming an increasingly popular destination. We examine how this impacts the forest preserve, which the state Constitution requires to be kept “forever wild.” Guest host Julie Philipp sits down with officials from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and the Genesee Valley Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club to find out what is being done to m
Leigh Ann Henion on her book, 'Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark'
While we sleep, the creatures of the nocturnal world work their magic. In her book, "Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark," New York Times bestselling author Leigh Ann Henion examines how forest logging, light pollution, and other human activities harm the diversity and habitats of animals and insects that depend on the darkness to navigate,
The publishing puzzle: Local authors on how to reach readers
How difficult is it to publish a book? It's a nuanced question, especially when there are different avenues for aspiring writers to explore. This hour, guest host Julie Philipp sits down with local authors to talk about what new writers face when they're trying to get their books in the hands of readers. How do authors go about finding an audience? How can they attract the attention of ag
State of Monroe County; NYS legislative session wraps; America's 250th
Guest host Julie Philipp leads our weekly news roundup with WXXI journalists. First, deputy editor Jeremy Moule shares the latest from Monroe County. He reviews County Executive Adam Bello's State of the County and his assessment of the local economy and public safety. Then, Capitol Bureau reporter Samuel King joins us from Albany with a wrap up of the legislative session and a push from
Keeping fights out of Ontario Beach Park
Recent fights among teenagers at Ontario Beach Park and the Lilac Festival have local leaders looking for answers. Guest host Julie Philipp sits down with Monroe County Legislature President Yversha Roman and representatives from Teen Empowerment to talk about safety concerns and possible solutions, stereotypes, and the realities related to why young people are behaving in dangerous ways.
'Connections on the Road:' Youth mental health
"Connections" goes on the road this hour. A live audience joins us from the Early Learning Center in Greece, where we discuss youth mental health. We bring you multiple perspectives, including the voices of teenagers. Our guests share the challenges they are seeing in the youth mental health space, and we hear how local nonprofit organizations like the Center for Youth are teaming up with
From the classroom to the arena: Rochester students take on robotics challenges
Rochester City School District (RCSD) students are gearing up for a weekend of competition. The second annual RCSD Flower City Frenzy Robotics Competition will be held on Saturday at East High School. In recent years, NPR has referred to robotics as a sport that builds the next generation of engineers. We talk with the students about the robots they've built, the skills they've learned, a
Raj Goyle, candidate for New York State comptroller
We continue our coverage of the Democratic primary for New York State comptroller. Raj Goyle is a former Kansas legislator. He is now seeking to serve as New York's chief financial officer. This hour, we talk with Goyle about his background and experience, the often misunderstood role of the comptroller, and the office's role on the daily lives of New Yorkers. Our guest:Raj Goyle, candida
Sharing life lessons across generations
What can young people learn from the wisdom of seniors? And what can older adults learn from students? Two local programs are pairing young people with senior citizens so members of different generations can benefit from the other’s experience. We hear from participants about what they’ve learned from each other. Our guests:
Rachel Hucko, middle school music teacher at Allendale Columbia
Why is gun violence declining?
In Rochester, gun violence is on a downward trend. Those who work in gun violence prevention are concerned about the dangers of forgetting. That’s their way of saying that the community cannot afford to become complacent. This hour, a local gun violence prevention counselor talks about what is actually working on the street, and what is not. In studio:Justin Morris, founder and CEO of Unt
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month
In the month of May, the nation recognizes the cultural and historical contributions of people of Asian American descent and individuals from the Pacific Islands by honoring how they have helped shape our society. WXXI commemorates AAPI Heritage Month by spotlighting community members who trace their lineage back to Asia and the Pacific Islands, but now call Rochester home. Three of them
The growth of women in farming
This year has been declared the International Year of the Woman Farmer, but farming remains one of the most male-dominated occupations in the nation. Some argue, though, that women were indeed the first agriculturalists, but over the years, institutional and social barriers like fair wages, the design of farm equipment and childcare have limited their contributions. But despite the inequi
As Rochester struggles to address homelessness, the shelter system steps up
Last year, the Rochester area saw its highest count of homeless individuals since at least 2007. Shelters are often overcrowded, and street homeless are becoming more visible. Guest host Gino Fanelli explores what the shelter system is doing to meet demand, and what resources are still needed. In studio:
Amy D’Amico, housing advocate and founder of Rochester Grants Pass Resistance
Anna Va
Summer movie preview
Summer movie season is officially here with a lineup of blockbusters, horror titles, and indie gems. The summer season will largely be defined by "The Odyssey" — Christopher Nolan's epic follow-up to his Oscar-winning 2023 film, "Oppenheimer." The father of the summer blockbuster, Steven Spielberg, is also back with "Disclosure Day," a new sci-fi romp. Another seasonal trend? Summer horro
Music as medicine: How the arts can heal
"Musick has Charms to sooth a savage Breast,To soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak." (William Congreve)It is often said that music is healing, but what are some ways that this truism plays out in practice? Jon Batiste recently collaborated with Joanne Loewy of Mount Sinai on a study that advances “social music” as a prescription for better health outcomes. That's just one angle. This hour
Rochester Cocktail Revival returns
When Rochester had its first Cocktail Revival years ago, the organizers aspired to put Rochester on the nation’s cocktail map. The newest edition includes tastings, teachings, and artistic challenges. We explore the growth of the event, even while fewer Americans are drinking alcohol. Our guests:
Leah Stacy, producer of Rochester Cocktail Revival and editor-in-chief of CITY Magazine
Chuck
Local Islamic leaders on the deadly San Diego mosque shooting
A shooting at a mosque in San Diego has rocked the Islamic community. We talk to local Islamic leaders about responding to violence. Our guests:
Sareer Fazili, former president of the Islamic Center of Rochester
Abu Saeed Islam, former president of the Islamic Center of Rochester
---Connections is supported by listeners like you. Head to our donation page to become a WXXI member today, su
Ukrainian artists create beauty amid tragedy
"When war touches an artist’s life directly, how does it change what feels necessary to say or impossible to ignore?" That's a question local Ukrainian-born photographer Elena Dilai asked herself as she watched Russia's war tear her native country apart. She says she and her fellow Ukrainian artists didn't set out to make "war art," but as the fighting touched their families, their langua
A contentious debate about two old school buildings, part 2
Rochester City Council voted Tuesday night on what to do with two vacant city school district buildings — specifically, a proposal that would allow for the sale of two buildings to charter schools. Council voted to sell one building and not the other. We sit down with three Council members to discuss their votes. In studio:
Mary Lupien, member of Rochester City Council
Chiara "KeeKee" Smi
Local students team up with NASA astronauts
We're joined by two local high school students who recently returned from Houston, where they met with NASA astronauts. Sloane Keller and Luke Schulte are students at Fairport High School who participated in the NASA HUNCH program. The initiative pairs NASA mentors with students who research solutions to real-world problems faced by NASA. This hour, we talk with the students and their men
New Yorker cover artist Harry Bliss on his memoir, 'You Can Never Die'
In the first few pages of his debut graphic memoir, cartoonist and New Yorker cover artist Harry Bliss writes that his intention with the book is to establish intimacy with his readers. "You Can Never Die" is rooted in his heartbreak over the loss of his dog, Penny. In his exploration of his grief, Bliss revisits emotional moments over the course of his life: growing up in Henrietta, in a
AI in the arts: Does technology strengthen or silence the creative process?
Technology enhances many aspects of our lives, but when it comes to the arts, some artists say it can be a threat. Artificial intelligence, in particular, is changing how works are created and how certain disciplines are taught. We discuss it all with local experts in literature, publishing, music, and more.
Michael Solis, executive director of Writers & Books
Peter Conners, publisher
What is a "K-shaped economy" and how does it affect you?
Economist Eric Morris is our guest, talking about the "K-shaped economy." He explains how and why recent economic challenges in this country are not affecting people equally. In studio:Eric Morris, portfolio manager and staff economist for Alesco Advisors, an ESL company---Connections is supported by listeners like you. Head to our donation page to become a WXXI member today, support the
Fight over Irondequoit Mall space; school budget votes; celebrating the Rochester Subway
It's our weekly news roundup. The future of the former Irondequoit Mall is up for debate. WXXI's Brian Sharp has the latest with the court fight over development of the space. Then, school districts across the Rochester area are putting their annual budgets up to vote on May 19, but they're doing so against a background of uncertainty. That's according to reporting from WXXI's Noelle Evan
'15 minutes saved my life.' How changes in stroke care are transforming lives
Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a stroke. A local man learned that earlier this year when he had a stroke in his home. Josh Graves says his life was saved thanks to the University of Rochester Medical Center's Mobile Stroke Unit. On Friday, URMC is lifting the curtain on a new mobile unit. Leaders say it will help improve the region's rapid stroke response capabilities, l
Challenging the legitimacy of standardized testing
A group of Rochester teachers and retired educators is preparing to host an event with a mission: to rally the public against standardized testing. They describe the exams as “high stakes” and will make the case for different ways to assess students. We discuss how they would change student assessment. In studio:
Dan Drmacich, coordinator of the Rochester Coalition for Public Education, r
'I don't call it out because I still need you to be my doctor.' Local woman explains ableism in healthcare
A local woman says she learned early on that being understood in a doctor’s office isn’t guaranteed. Jeiri Flores has cerebral palsy, and as she told WXXI's Noelle Evans in a recent episode of the Move to Include Podcast, her healthcare experience has meant constantly navigating Medicaid limits, confusing private insurance, and providers who don’t have experience with disabled bodies. Thi
What could a possible American invasion mean for Cuba?
A recent U.S. congressional delegation returned from a trip to Cuba, offering a warning. The Democrats on the delegation said that U.S. sanctions are crippling Cuban energy and the economy. They warned that an American invasion could cause more suffering. But some Cuban Americans are rooting for regime change. We discuss how the Cuban diaspora views the possible conflict to come. In studi
New program encourages forgoing phones to help forge friendships
Scroll less, connect more." That's advice from Compeer Rochester. The nonprofit launched a new program to help volunteers and community members spend less time on screens, build real-life friendships, and reduce social isolation. We talk with the organizers of the program and people who have benefited from it. In studio:
Sara Passamonte, CEO of Compeer Rochester
Jerry Grimshaw, youth enga
The risks of overstretching the American military
With the U.S. military stretched thin around the world, some international observers are concerned that American adversaries will try to take advantage. That could mean Russia targeting NATO or China targeting Taiwan. We discuss the current situation and the risks that could be ahead. In studio:Randy Stone, Ph.D., professor of political science and director of the Skalny Center for Polish
Let’s talk about (not having) sex
Sex therapist Eleni Economides hears it all the time: Clients aren’t having sex. Some want to have more; some dread sex. The struggles are real, and she takes us through what the audience can learn about libido, desire, and healthy relationships. In studio:Eleni Economides, licensed marriage and family therapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist, and sex and intimacy coach for women---Conne
The journalist who saw the AI threat coming
Back in 2014, James Barrat got mixed reviews for his book, "Our Final Invention: Artificial Intelligence and the End of the Human Era." He was one of the first guests on "Connections," and he posed a scenario that might have seemed far-fetched at the time: What if AI surpasses human intelligence in the next decade? Twelve years later, Barrat looks prescient, and he’s working on his next b
Recommended
The Fifteenth Page Show | AI Systems, Marketing Tips, andContent Marketing Strategy for Busy Teams
Intrigue Outloud
The Daily
Doctor Zhivago Slow Read
Conspiracy Files with Paige Carter
This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von
The Theory of Psychoanalysis - Carl Jung
A Life Engineered
پادکست بهزاد بلور | Behzad Bolour's Podcast
The Rabbit Hole: Conspiracy Theories
The Swerve Podcast: Obscure Topics | Conspiracy Theories
The Bread and Banter Podcast
