Connections Radio

Host Laurie Fitz visits with MN DFL Voices from Greater Minnesota and the Metro to talk about issues, pros and cons, surrounding Data Centers. Drawing on research and wide-ranging conversations, our panelists include: Jonathon Rehlander – Minnesota House Candidate for 39A and Co-host for our Data Center discussion, Johnnie Forrest retired IUPAT Local 106 & SD7 DFL Chair, Susan Herder – Secretary for SD 59 and Humphrey School Student, and Jack Carlson Duluth Building & Construction Trades President. A great discussion on important issues to consider when building policies regarding Data Centers future in Minnesota.

Host Laurie Fitz is joined by the fantabulous Philip Anthony, host of the Downright Upright Show airing Saturdays at 5 PM on AM950 and available anywhere on podcast.

Following last Saturday’s 1/10/26 broadcast, today hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo feature more community members and leaders discussing not only ICE’s recent shooting of a Minneapolis citizen and mother, but also ICE’s ongoing para-military occupation of the Twin Cities area and beyond. We discuss what the essence of connection might mean in the wake of a tragic death and current traumatic times—with Alex Trevino, Rev. Trish Vanni, Rev. Doug Pagitt, and Anthony Signorelli.

Laurie Fitz is joined by our Twin Cities writer/composer, musician, actor, producer, and educator, Brenda Varda. Together they explore in a provocative discussion …. how the meaning of “holding” can be thought of during the holidays as well as with our relationship to the world around us. “What are you holding on to?”

Host Laurie Fitz visits with Western Communities Action Network—WeCAN—a community nonprofit serving Western Hennepin County individuals and families in need since 1989. They empower and equip individuals and families to reach stability and self-sufficiency. From emergency assistance, to food support, to helping clients with job skills, WeCAN is in existence to help, support and inspire. –  www.WeCANmn.org

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit a 5th time with University of Connecticut’s Professor of English, well-known author, and humorist, Gina Barreca. (Rick sought her out years ago after seeing her book on women, academia, and humor: “They Used to Call Me Snow White… But I Drifted.”) Our broadcast follows her newest book, “Gina School,” as she opens the doors to her most personal, provocative, and laugh-out-loud collection yet. “Whether you’re an anxious applicant, a lifelong learner, a book club rebel, or just someone looking for a little reassurance and a lot of sass—you belong here.” – www.GinaBarreca.com • www.WoodhallPress.com

Host Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with Rev. Dr. Trish Sullivan Vanni, a priest from Charis Community, Minnesota’s first Ecumenical Catholic Church. We discuss Catholic Church and wider church history, along with women and their place in that evolving landscape. – www.CharisECC.org

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with writer/composer, musician, actor, producer, and educator (composition, critical thinking, and arts development), Brenda Varda. Back in February she visited with others from Phoenix Theater’s production of “Stolen Focus,” the script for which she wrote. Besides hearing samples from her wonderful music, we’ll discuss not only her myriad roles of creativity as she connects science and the arts, but also humor’s and satire’s deeper heart. – www.BrendaVarda.com • www.youtube.com/@BrendaVarda

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo speak with callers around the Twin Cities and the country about “We the People,” as today’s “No Kings” rallies for democracy will be the largest national protests in history against fascism and for our communities. – www.IndivisibleTwinCities.org • wwwIndivisible.org