Where We Live
Where We Live is a podcast from Connecticut Public that puts Connecticut in context. Host Catherine Shen leads fascinating, informed, and in-depth conversations and stories beyond the news headlines. The show starts local, then explores domestic and international issues and how they affect us personally and at home.
Episodes
Author Chris Bohjalian on his writing routines and his latest novel “The Amateur”
Chris Bohjalian is the author of over twenty books, but his latest novel “The Amateur” pulls on his own lived experience working as a golf caddy. The story follows Mira, an 18-year-old golf prodigy. One afternoon, while practicing at her prestigious country club, she hits a stray ball right into the temple of her classmate’s head, killing him almost instantly. Where We Live host
Rocks rock! A celebration of the new CT state rock
Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic: Do those words ring any bells? Maybe from that old earth science class? Don’t lose your marbles! Today, we’re talking about rocks. Did you know that Connecticut now has a new state rock? Housatonic marble has officially received this prestigious title of Connecticut’s state rock. Today, we learn how it all happened. Later, science e
What draws these Connecticut adventurers to the sea?
What makes someone willingly leave the safety of shore and head into the unknown? Connecticut adventurer, Elizabeth Fry, has swum some of the world’s most challenging open-water routes, while Guilford-native, Brec Morgan, spent four and a half years sailing around the globe alone. This hour, they talk about the fear, solitude and exhilaration of their journeys – and the emoti
After losing a child, these parents dedicate their lives to advocacy
You’ve probably heard of the stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. But the stages of grief aren’t always linear. The grieving is almost always a little messy. And when a child dies, navigating grief can become a lifelong journey. Today, two parents who have experienced the death of a child join us and share their experience, and how they’ve chann
How dementia caregivers navigate a challenging role: Catharsis, humor and patience
Dementia is one of the leading causes of disability among older adults. For caregivers of people with the disease, the role is filled with a variety of emotions like worry, sadness and grief. But it’s also a role often filled with connection and love. In June, Connecticut Public’s Daniela Doncel moderated a conversation about dementia caregiving at the Webb Deane Stevens Museum in Weth
The scoop on Connecticut’s best ice cream
Summer may be winding down, but there's still plenty of time for ice cream. We go behind the scenes to learn how one of Connecticut's most beloved frozen treats is made, revisit the nostalgia of the neighborhood ice cream truck, and hear from local experts about what makes a truly great scoop. We'll also explore creative flavors – including vegan options – and get recommendations for s
The chaos and majesty of geomagnetic storms
You check the local weather, but do you ever check space weather? Storms are always occurring in space and sometimes, we’re impacted by them here on Earth. Today, we’re talking about geomagnetic storms — how they affect Earth, how we’re able to predict them, and how someday, we might even be able to prevent their effects. Also, we discuss what causes the magic of
'Burn without opening:' How a mysterious note led to a family history investigation
If you discovered a note from a loved one marked “burn without opening,” would you read it? Author and former journalist Paul T. O'Connor did. He joins us to discuss the decision that sent him on a years-long search for the truth about his mother's past, chronicled in his new book, “The Missing Child.” And later, we learn how Connecticut residents can begin uncovering their
Worshippers return to the pews: CT religious researchers and leaders tell us why
Attendance in church pews has bounced back since COVID-19 pandemic lows. And many of these attendees are young worshippers, looking for religious community. Today, church researchers and writers join us to help us understand why so many people are coming back to church. Plus, are nuns having a moment? It certainly seems like it! The Catholic Church is seeing an increase in interest in religious li
Housing roadblocks continue in CT: Local architects are stepping up to the challenge
Finding affordable housing is a huge challenge in Connecticut. Could part of this problem be how housing is built and designed? Architects aren’t just thinking about how to design better, more efficient homes. They’re thinking about how to design homes with community and affordability in mind. Today, we hear how architects are working to build better homes and communities across the st
What we know about cyclosporiasis cases in CT, plus a look at air quality
In the last month we have seen a flurry of warnings that lettuce might be infected with cyclosporiasis. To date, there have been over 60 cases here in Connecticut. Wildfires from the west brought smoke to the East Coast, leading to air quality warnings and recommendations for residents to stay inside, if they can. Today, we get updates on these public health situations, and hear what you need
CT poet Rohanna Delossantos on migration, motherhood and stories passed down through generations
Connecticut poet Rohanna Ssanyu Delossantos has a new chapbook, “The Marabou Who Crossed the Sea,” a collection inspired by her family's roots in Uganda and her own experience growing up between cultures. What do we inherit from the places our parents left behind? Connecticut poet Rohanna Ssanyu Delossantos discusses her new chapbook, “The Marabou Who Crossed the Sea,” a co
When immigration enforcement reaches schools: How CT educators are responding
As educators prepare to support students in the upcoming school year, some are facing a new challenge: how to respond to immigration enforcement. Early research shows that many students are grappling with fear and anxiety when it comes to the threats of ICE arrests. This has already started to impact school performance and attendance. Today, we hear what educators are doing to prepare and res
Novelist Celeste Ng on great first lines and themes of identity and belonging
Author Celeste Ng is familiar with the push and pull of adolescence. In May, Ng had a conversation with Simsbury High School students and Where We Live host Catherine Shen. Students at Simsbury High School recently launched a documentary initiative called “Make Us Count,” inspired by the themes of identity and belonging in Celeste Ng’s books. Today, we listen back to that convers
The World Cup: A global game in a divided moment
The World Cup has come to a close, but soccer's impact reaches far beyond this global tournament. This hour, we explore how the sport has grown from a niche pastime in America to our most popular youth sport – and why it's often called the world's universal language. From immigrant communities to local professional clubs and the sport's very passionate supporters, we'll look at how soccer cr
Making the most of summer in Connecticut
Do you still make a list of all the things you want to do before the summer’s end? We sure do! Today, we will share some of our favorite summer happenings around the state and we want to hear yours too! Connecticut Public pals Frankie Graziano and Francesca Fontanez join us to share their favorite summer spots. These Connecticut natives have all the best tips and secrets to ma
What happens after animal abuse is reported?
In 2025, there were nearly 200 animal cruelty cases in Connecticut. Ten years ago, Connecticut passed “Desmond’s Law” a landmark animal welfare bill that allows attorneys to advocate for animals involved in abuse. Animal abuse and neglect is complicated. Hoarding cases might start small, but getting out of hand very quickly. Local shelters can be a first line of defense
Fibroids, extreme heat, and the health issues we overlook
Up to 80% of women will develop uterine fibroids by age 50, but many people still don’t know what they are or how they can affect daily life. This hour, we break down the basics of fibroids, from symptoms and diagnosis to the treatment options available. And later, as summer temperatures rise, we hear from an emergency physician about how extreme heat affects the body and who is mo
Exploring Connecticut State Parks: Conservation, Hiking and Indigenous History
It takes a lot of work to help preserve Connecticut's nearly 140 parks and forests. Today, we learn what that looks like across our state. We hear from the Connecticut Forest and Park Association and learn about their efforts to pass down land stewardship to the next generation. Plus, Connecticut state parks are a treasure trove of Indigenous history. A local author shares their guide on hiking In
Supreme Court's immigration rulings: What they mean for Connecticut
The US Supreme Court in Washington, DC, on June 25, 2026. The US Supreme Court on Thursday backed a Trump administration move to strip deportation protections from some 350,000 Haitians and 6,000 Syrians living in the United States. The conservative-dominated court, in a 6-3 ruling, said the Department of Homeland Security's decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian i
US Poet Laureate Arthur Sze is taking on the art of translated poetry
Arthur Sze took an non-traditional path to becoming the U.S. Poet Laureate. Born in 1950 to Chinese immigrants, his family wanted him to pursue a safe career path that would assure security and prosperity. But while studying at MIT, he felt the call to write and study poetry; a call that changed the trajectory of his life. Sze spent his career translating traditional Chinese poetry. He also taught
Preserving stories and languages one oral history at a time
How will you preserve your family history? Maybe through journaling or family movies? What about grabbing an audio recorder? Today, we’ll hear all about oral history projects in Connecticut that are recording stories for posterity. Later on, we’ll also hear how the Yiddish language and its dialects are being preserved. Guests: Katie Heidsiek: Director of Exhibitions for the Connectic
CT interior designer Sophie von Oertzen Williamson is team 'never beige'
When you look around your room, what do you see? More specifically, what do you see that you love? Is it a cool souvenir? Maybe a seashell? Or a family photo that always brings back good memories? Connecticut-based interior designer and textile artist Sophie von Oertzen Williamson uses tension, textiles and lots of color to make living spaces warm and inviting. She is the author of the new book &l
In a digital world, what makes a toy worth picking up?
Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rev. James Martin on work and life's spiritual journey
The Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit author and educator, believes everyone's life is a spiritual journey. "We're all on this spiritual journey to understand ourselves, to understand how God loves us, to experience God's love and to give that love back to God and to other people," he said. Martin is the author of the new book, “Work in Progress: Confessions of a busboy, dishwasher, caddy, usher,
Smell defines our world in hidden and powerful ways
Breathe deep and think: What do you smell right now? The sweetness of the spring air? The smoky smells of the highway? Our noses give us key clues about the environment and provide a critical daily link to some of our most cherished memories. But smell, and its control over culture and politics, is often undervalued and misunderstood. Today, we take a nose dive into the olfactory, exploring how hu
Author Amy Bloom on first drafts, writing slowly and making use of every inspiration
Bestselling author Amy Bloom is widely known for 2022 memoir “In Love.” The memoir follows her journey with her late husband, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. The pair made a decision to travel to Switzerland to help him end his life. Bloom’s latest book is different. “Blunt Instrument” is a vivacious, and often hilarious, murder mystery that’s se
How Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring' is still teaching environmentalists in 2026
It's been more than 60 years since environmentalist Rachel Carson's book, "Silent Spring," challenged the widespread use of synthetic pesticides like DDT and helped launch the modern environmental movement. This hour, we learn about Carson's life, work and her enduring legacy through a new exhibit at Yale's Beinecke Library. We'll also examine a current environmental challenge: per- and polyf
Looking for a book for the young reader in your life? We got you covered
Did you know that the Library of Congress is home to half a million children’s books? That’s a lot of summer reading! Today, it’s our annual summer reading show, dedicated to all things YA and kid’s reads. We’ll hear from the author of “Tell Me A Story: Fantastic Children’s Books from the Library of Congress” and talk about the bo
CT student detained by ICE reflects on detention and his hopes for the future
In April, 18-year-old Rihan was mistakenly detained by U.S. Immigation and Customs Enforcement. The teen, who lives in Cheshire, Connecticut, spent two weeks in a detention facility in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Today, Rihan is back home and just graduated from Cheshire High. But with his legal status in limbo what's next for a young man with a dream to attend college and an uncertain future i
'Sandwich generation' caregivers balance stress of being caught in the middle
The “sandwich generation” is made up of people balancing the demands of raising children while caring for aging loved ones. This hour, we learn about the emotional, professional and financial realities facing this population of caregivers. Journalist Kelli María Korducki discusses her reporting on caregiving and career sacrifice, while University of Connecticut professor Laura M
Are graduate degrees worth the cost in 2026?
Advanced degrees are increasingly out of reach for many. Receiving financial aid has gotten more difficult too. Many schools are already rethinking how they support their graduate students. We'll get an update on financial aid and hear what some Connecticut institutions are doing to make their graduate programming more affordable and accessible. Guests: Emily Roberts: Financial Educator and
Why mental health conversations matter
A recent study found that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline may have contributed to a decline in suicide deaths among young people. This hour, we learn what the research tells us and what questions remain. We also hear from Connecticut advocates working to connect people with mental health resources and reduce stigma. Later, two residents share their personal experiences navigat
CT epidemiologists respond to measles outbreaks, plus a look at Ebola
There currently are over 2,000 confirmed cases of measles in the United States of America, including some cases in Connecticut’s surrounding states. Today, we get an update on measles closer to home, and abroad. Plus, we’ll hear about the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other parts of central Africa. Guests: Dr. Ulysses Wu: Chief Epidemiologist at Har
Actor and writer Sam Shepard lived as an embodiment of the American West
Actor and playwright Sam Shepard wrote over 40 plays and worked with some of the biggest names in entertainment. After his death, Connecticut biographer Robert Dowling started a journey to learn everything he could about this larger-than-life artist. His book is “Coyote: The Dramatic Lives of Sam Shepard.” Today, we listen back to a conversation with Robert Dowling. He’s a profes
Is humanity taking a back seat in the age of AI?
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work and communicate. Now, Pope Leo XIV is weighing in, warning that AI poses urgent moral and ethical challenges for society. This hour, we explore the growing debate over artificial intelligence from the Vatican to Connecticut. We’ll hear from philosophers, theologians and researchers about the risks, rewards and unanswered questions
How transportation decisions shape daily life across Connecticut
There’s no question that transportation impacts nearly every part of our lives – from getting to work and school, to accessing health care and building community. This hour, we’re digging into Connecticut’s plan for statewide transportation improvementsefforts. We’ll listen back to “Connecticut on the Move,” a panel conversation recorded at the Parkville M
Getting to know host Catherine Shen through music and some (not so) warm, fuzzy memories
Contrary to popular belief, host Catherine Shen is a human with real human emotions. The fact is, she cares about her feelings! In this hour, technical producer Dylan Reyes returns for a conversation with Cat on growing up and the music that shaped them. Music Featured (in order): "Moon Prism Power Make Up!" by Arisawa Takanori "Bright Sized Life" by Pat Metheny "Fool" by MAYDAY "Tayo'y Magsayawa
CT high school students lead the effort to preserve local AAPI history
When students at Simsbury High School discovered that there was little to no data on Asian American students in Connecticut, they launched a new project to change that. Through out this year, these students have been collecting oral histories from Asian American voices across Connecticut in the oral history project “Make Us Count.” The project debuts at a community-wide event happ
Can CT light the way on protecting our night skies?
For migratory birds, nighttime light can be deadly. Artificial light draws birds off course, increasing the risk of exhaustion, window collisions and predation. Experts say the problem is growing as Connecticut skies become brighter. This hour, we explore how light pollution impacts birds, river ecosystems, insects and even human health. Plus, an amateur astronomer shares why protecting dark skies
US Poet Laureate Arthur Sze is taking on the art of translated poetry
Arthur Sze took an non-traditional path to becoming the U.S. Poet Laureate. Born in 1950 to Chinese immigrants, his family wanted him to pursue a safe career path that would assure security and prosperity. But while studying at MIT, he felt the call to write and study poetry; a call that changed the trajectory of his life. Sze spent his career translating traditional Chinese poetry.
From opera to bluegrass, CT State Trouabdour Charlie Widmer has done it all
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
Author Kamilah Cole explores Hartford and Jamaican-American experience in latest novel
“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 Unive
Navigating the throes of postpartum depression
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 oft
A shoutout to the aunts who shape us
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 serves up comfort and nostalgia in 'Hello, Home Cooking'
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.
Supporting troops at every stage of life: A conversation with the National Guard
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 Rec
CT is experiencing an 'unseasonably high' tick season. What's behind the uptick?
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 Co
Investigating the world of influencer kids
Journalist and author Fortesa Latifi remembers the first time she stumbled upon child influencer content. She noticed a pattern of family influencers sharing incredibly intimate content of their children's firsts. "They were shaving their legs for the first time or getting potty trained, and it would get millions of views," she said. "And I just started thinking how strange it would be to grow up
New CT Public series 'Caregiving in Connecticut' explores the challenges facing an aging state
About one in four U.S. adults take care of a loved one – from bathing to managing medical appointments. And as the American population is aging, more of us are becoming caregivers. We’re exploring caregiving and aging in a series we’re calling Caregiving in Connecticut. You can hear the stories and conversations this week during Morning Edition and All Things Considered and you c
Examining America's promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for Indigenous communites
At America's founding, who was entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness? This was the topic of discussion at a recent event at the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. Connecticut Public special correspondent Diane Orson led a panel discussion with several Native American historians. Today, we listen back to that conversation. It's an extension of Still Here: Native American Re
E-books and what it means to own something in 2026
We live in an age of convenience. From one device, millions of books can be accessed and stored. E-readers have become so ubiquitous that even if you don't personally own one, you probably know someone who does. But, have you ever stopped to think about how we get our e-books? And once you do get it, do you actually own it? Today, we will be digging through these questions as we explore e-books an
Author Eiren Caffal on finding love and hope in difficult times
Every year, the Westport Library hosts a series of author conversations bringing the community together to bond over a book and a shared love of reading. This year, Where We Live host Catherine Shen hosted one of these conversations and spoke to award-winning author Eiren Caffall. Today, we will listen back to that conversation. Caffall is the author of “All the Water in the World.” It
Having a "good death" is possible; we learn what this means
Death is not something that a lot of us like to think about. But making plans about end-of-life doesn’t need to be scary. Our experts today say it could be empowering. Today, we hear from the Connecticut Death Collective, and hear new approaches to end-of-life care, and memorialization. Later this month, the Mattatuck Museum and Riverside Cemetery, will host the first ever CT Death
The demand for data centers is growing: Are they coming to CT?
Data centers come in all shapes and sizes,from a few shelves in the basement of a university building, to a warehouse the size of nearly two hundred football fields. But what do data centers actually do? Do we have any here in Connecticut? Towns across the state have expressed their trepidation about what a large data center might mean for the quality of life of their residents, with oth
Smell defines our world in hidden and powerful ways
Breathe deep and think: What do you smell right now? The sweetness of the spring air? The smoky smells of the highway? Our noses give us key clues about the environment and provide a critical daily link to some of our most cherished memories. But smell, and its control over culture and politics, is often undervalued and misunderstood. Today, we take a nose dive into the olfactory, exploring how hu
Exploring poetry's power to connect CT communities
At a time where we are feeling increasingly disconnected, poetry has a powerful way of fostering community. Today, during National Poetry Month, we hear from poets and educators. We'll also check in with some students competing in the Poetry Out Loud competition. It's a competition where students dedicate time to study, memorize and then recite their chosen poem outloud. And as the kids will tell
Spring gardening tips from perpetual gardens to pollinator lawns
Spring has sprung! And with it comes plant sales, fresh flowers and a whole lot of weeds. But what goes into starting a garden? And how do you create sustainable, productive and beautiful landscapes? Today, we’ll be feeling the buzz as we answer all your gardening questions. Later, we’ll hear all about how you can create a way station for travelling pollinators in your backyard! Guests
Author Melissa Febos explores sex, celibacy and healing in 'The Dry Season'
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 &
Exploring the life of chef and restaurateur Eduardo 'Lalo' Garcia with CT reporter Laura Tillman
Chef and restaurateur Eduardo Garcia, better known as “Lalo,” started his cooking journey in his mother’s kitchen. His mother didn’t have any formal training, but prepared food through her own instincts and deep knowledge of flavors. As a child, Garcia picked fruits and vegetables on the migrant route from Florida to Michigan. It gave him firsthand experience of the work th
Can mass surveillance and civil liberties co-exist?
Next time you’re driving, take a look around and you might notice you’re being watched. From cameras atop traffic lights to license plate readers, surveillance technology has quietly crept into cities and towns across the state. Today, we’re taking a look at surveillance in Connecticut and asking why organizations are worried about how these devices are used. Can mass surveillanc
'Beaverland' author Leila Philip shares the wonders of this unusual rodent
Beavers are known as a "keystone species" contributing to biodiversity wherever they set up their habitats. Today, Connecticut author and journalist Leila Philip joins us to talk about her book "Beaverland: How One Weird Rodent Made America." We’ll also hear from one student working to map beaver habitats throughout Connecticut. Have you seen beavers where you live? Guests: Leila Phili
Unpacking the US Postal Service's uncertain future
Postmaster General David Steiner recently told lawmakers that the U.S. Postal Service is in peril. Speaking at a House Oversight subcommittee hearing, he said that the agency would be out of cash within 12 months and might have to cease deliveries. Today, we talk about the future of the postal service in Connecticut and across the nation, and ask what can be done to keep it afloat. Later, does you
This hour, feel the pull of the moon
On September 12th, 1962, President John F. Kennedy announced that the United States would land a man on the moon within the decade. Seven years later, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin planted the American flag on the lunar surface. Now, NASA and space agencies around the globe are planning on going back. So what is it about the moon that continues to capture humanity’s heart and imagination? T
Rev. James Martin on work and life's spiritual journey
The Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit author and educator, believes everyone's life is a spiritual journey. "We're all on this spiritual journey to understand ourselves, to understand how God loves us, to experience God's love and to give that love back to God and to other people," he said. Martin is the author of the new book, “Work in Progress: Confessions of a busboy, dishwasher, caddy, usher,
Shawna the Mom on TikTok, motherhood and the appeal of authenticity
Shawna Lander is the actress behind “Shawna the Mom,” a series of one-woman skits on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. She's amassed millions of followers online, through clips are that are fictional, but touch on real world themes of motherhood and the ups-and-downs of family life. "I was really hungry for any sort of media that would reflect back to me what it was I was going through, a
How are social media algorithms impacting CT teens in 2026?
Seven-in-ten high school teachers say that cell phone distraction in school is a major problem, and one third of teens say that they use at least one social media site “almost constantly,” according to the Pew Research Center. But how are teens actually consuming social media? And what kind of citizens of the internet are they becoming? We’ll hear about a new study exploring
CT diaspora responds to crisis in Lebanon
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have displaced 800,000 people, and killed nearly 700 people. Connecticut is home to nearly 10,000 Lebanese Americans. Today we hear from members of the state's Lebanese diaspora. We’ll also hear from one global humanitarian aid organization working on the ground in Lebanon to provide support. GUESTS: Arson Fahim: musician, pianist, composer and c
Taíno culture and heritage celebrated across CT
A new exhibit at Yale’s natural history museum is highlighting a culture with deep ties to many in the state. It’s called “¡Taíno Vive!” or “Taíno lives,” and it’s all about the native people of the Caribbean. Today we celebrate the history and contributions of Taínos. It’s a culture with roots in Puerto Rico, Haiti, Jamaic
Preserving stories and languages one oral history at a time
How will you preserve your family history? Maybe through journaling or family movies? What about grabbing an audio recorder? Today, we’ll hear all about oral history projects in Connecticut that are recording stories for posterity. Later on, we’ll also hear how the Yiddish language and its dialects are being preserved. Guests: Katie Heidsiek: Director of Exhibitions for the Conne
CT farms are bringing some unique crops to the table
Believe it or not, spring is just around the corner. But it’s been a rough winter for those growing crops and raising livestock. Today, we hear how this winter season has impacted Connecticut agriculture and farms. More Connecticut farmers are working to bring new products to market and maybe inspire your tastebuds along the way. We hear from one farm doing just that. Find your loc
CT native Tory Henwood Hoen explores caregiving in new book 'Before I Forget'
Before I Forget, a novel by Tory Henwood Hoen. At some point in life, there is a good chance that you might become a caretaker. “Before I Forget” is the story of life, love, memory loss and all the ups and downs of caregiving. It was inspired by author Tory Henwood Hoen’s own experience with caregiving. The story follows a young woman named Cricket. As her father’s Alz
As CT reacts to unfolding situation in Iran, what's the importance of community in times of crisis?
In an age of increased isolation and loneliness, what does it mean to be a good neighbor, and build community? Today, we hear from groups across Connecticut working to organize, support their neighborhoods and inspire change. We’ll also get local reactions to the unfolding situation in Iran and the Middle East. Guests: Farhan Memon: Chairman, CAIR Connecticut, the state chapter of the
Amid enrollment declines, an update on CT public school education
Connecticut is facing a historic decline in public school enrollment, with enrollment dropping below half a million for the first time in two decades. This effect is especially pronounced in Hartford, which saw a 5% decline in student enrollment amid a $45 million dollar school deficit. Now, city officials are looking to bring students back — and decrease the deficit. Later on, we’ll h
Amid DHS funding cuts, is meaningful immigration reform possible?
Speaking at the State of the Union, President Donald Trump demanded a full restoration of funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has carried out raids in major cities across the nation resulting in mass arrests, violence and the deaths of two people in Minneapolis, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Today, we break down what was said at the Stat
Sen. Blumenthal on his recent trip to Ukraine, plus CT residents send aid to the region
It’s been four years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Recent peace talks concluded without bringing the region any closer to peace. This war has displaced millions and killed thousands of civilians. Russian armed forces recently attacked district heating systems leaving thousands of civilians without heat. 2026 has been the coldest winter in Ukraine since the initial invasion.
A look at the history of tap dance in America
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
Black authors on the spectrum of diversity in children's literature
Seeing yourself in a book can open a world of possibilities. But diverse books need more than diverse characters, they need diverse stories. Although many efforts have been made to expand the books and curriculum used to teach Black history, African American children’s literature can still be quite limited. Today, Black authors join us to talk about expanding Black literature and Black stori
Author Kamilah Cole explores Hartford and Jamaican-American experience in latest novel
“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 Unive
Author Melissa Febos explores sex, celibacy and healing in 'The Dry Season'
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 &
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