Fill To Capacity (Where Heart, Grit and Irreverent Humor Collide)

Send us Fan Mail

Objects that anchor us - do you have one? I’ve journeyed with an etched stone for 20+ years. It's been a silent guide through change, a puzzle in constancy, and a testament to life's irony.

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Explore the wisdom, humor, and focus of strategic change-making with Shaun Floerke. As a judge, he shaped innovative specialty courts and programs fostering family unity within the legal system, but at the helm of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, he has shaped a proactive, compassionate outreach, highlighting the power of collective action and shared purpose.

Forget the status quo, for Shaun it's about revolutionizing how we approach social issues, listening to the unheard voices, and constructing a mosaic of expertise to create lasting solutions.

He candidly discusses the need to balance action with reflection, committing to self-care as a way to re-charge, and for him, it’s biking to and from work every day in Duluth.

He closes with a contemplation on the transition from being a warrior in one's youth to becoming an elder who supports others, recognizing the value of passing the torch to future leaders.

LINKS:
Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation 
Don Coyhis, Mohican Elder 

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

When Alice Grasset faced breast cancer at 40, her world was upended, leaving a corporate career to co-found the Yapura Wellness Center in North Carolina. This personal and professional collision led to the creation of 'Sparkles of Grace' – a holistic program guiding women through the emotional and physical labyrinth of cancer recovery emphasizing the power of yoga, meditation, and coaching in managing treatment side effects and fears of recurrence.  

In intimately recounting her own cancer journey, Alice gives voice to the physical, emotional, and spiritual struggles that connect rather than divide those facing this disease. Her story highlights the broader human experience of cancer and exemplifies how a supportive community can transform adversity into purpose. 

This is not a story of one woman’s ordeal in isolation, but rather a testament to the shared truths of the cancer path along a road that does not need to be lonely. 

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we set sail on a voyage into the heart of storytelling and sea-bound living with Liz Shipton, an indie author who has carved out a life that's as unconventional as it is inspiring. Living with her boyfriend Trevor, and their dog Aloy on their 43’ sailboat, Liz gives us a glimpse into the realities of her day-to-day life at sea and how it feeds into her creative work.

We explore her book series about dystopian adventures set in a future where most of the world is submerged in saltwater.  You'll hear about her encounters with rough seas and her observations on climate change and environmental issues. Liz's ability to tackle challenging topics like mental health and addiction, influenced by her personal struggles, brings forth a unique authenticity that makes her writing truly stand out.

Offering insights and advice about off-grid travel, Liz's story is a compelling look at the dedication it takes to follow one's passions. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that may just spark your own ideas about living life on your own terms.

LINKS
Liz Shipton 
SALT: Thalassic Book One

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Explore the power of creativity in self-discovery and healing with Kris Frykman, an acclaimed artist, educator, and art therapist. In this engaging podcast, Kris unveils how art therapy goes beyond aesthetics, becoming a vital tool for self-expression, healing, and coping with life's complexities. 
Discover her transformative work with the Suicide Survivors Club, where art therapy fosters hope, emotional growth, and connections for those facing trauma. Listen to a poignant tale from the Suicide Survivor Conference, underscoring the importance of outreach and connection in navigating and living with grief. 
This episode is not just about appreciating art—it's an inspirational dive into its therapeutic potential, guiding us towards a sense of belonging and peace amidst heartache and chaos.

Links:
Meet Kris Frykman, Canvas Rebel Magazine, January 23, 2023
Suicide Survivors’ Club
NAMI 

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

What if resilience and compassion were life tools forged  in a violent childhood where poverty, alcohol and illness were constants? Could they pave the way for an unshakable sibling bond that becomes a journey of purpose and connection? 

Listen as Mick Cochrane, acclaimed writer and professor answers this question in his captivating narrative of growing up alongside his remarkable, humorous, and creative sister, Sue.  As a family court judge for 18 years, she found unconventional ways to put the heart back into the body of the law, while dealing with a life-threatening cancer diagnosis.  It then returned as an inoperable brain tumor. Through multiple chemo rounds and brain surgeries, Sue had a deep curiosity about life, science, spirituality, and death- and a radical openness that allowed others to feel at ease. She chose to live with compassion and joy- like a mirror reflecting the good in others. 

Mick shares his journey to publish Sues’ extraordinary memoir: “The Crystal Gavel: How I put my heart into the body of the law.”  Reading this book is like talking to Sue, you can’t help but get pulled in! From her trauma born mutism to international speaker for collaborative law, she embodied Mary Oliver’s words:

“The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.”

Links:
Mick Cochrane

The Crystal Gavel: How I Put My Heart into the Body of the Law by Sue Cochrane, Edited by Mick Cochrane, Wise Ink Publisher
 
Kintsugi: The Golden Joinery of Love   by Sue Cochrane, Syndicated from themovementofhealing.org Oct.31, 2023

Judicial referee Susan Cochrane, who channeled her difficulties into life's work of compassion, dies at 65  by Rachelle Olson, Star Tribune February 27, 2021

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready for this electrifying episode with Lori Grace Bailey, professional photographer, and storm chaser who not only survived being struck by lightning but has an incredible story to tell! 🌩️ 
In this eye-opening conversation, we delve into Lori's incredible journey, from chasing tornadoes and capturing lightning strikes to facing dramatic dust walls in the Southwest. Her passion is as fierce as the storms she photographs.

As a Hispanic Trans woman, Lori's story is a testament to
courage and unwavering determination. She's on a mission to empower artists and
amplify diverse voices, seeing social media as a tool to showcase up-and-coming
talent.

Listen  as Lori shares valuable insights on the essential elements of safety in storm chasing, the unique mindset required for this daring art form, and the transformative power of embracing authenticity in both art and life. Discover the strength that comes from finding a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Lori's journey beautifully illustrates how art can mirror life in the most captivating and powerful ways. Don't miss this inspiring conversation! ⚡

e-opening and inspiring conversation with Lori Grace Bailey.

LINKS
The Light and Lightning of Lori Grace Bailey
Lori Grace Bailey Featured On CBS Sunday
When nature strikes, this storm chaser is usually with striking distance

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Join us on a journey of cultural exploration with Vesna Kittelson, a tri-located citizen of the world, gracefully navigating Croatia, Cambridge, and Minneapolis. Raised in Communist Yugoslavia, her compelling life story reflects the power of curiosity, offering unique perspectives on the world. Vesna’s artistic journey transcends not only borders but also linear time, weaving ancient Croatia, scholarly Cambridge, and vibrant Minneapolis into a rich tapestry of experiences and art making.

Discover the profound interplay of words and art in Vesna’s latest creations. She challenges traditional language boundaries, exploring the ineffable aspects of communication. Fascinated by dictionaries and the primal nature of language, her work invites viewers to contemplate the enigma of language and welcome a myriad of interpretations, transforming each piece into a dynamic dialogue between the artist and her audience.

 Links
VESNA krezich KITTELSON 

"Synthesis: Lost and Found in America: The Art of Vesna Kittelson,"  Afton Historical Society Press, 2020

WAM On Demand- (Virtual Studio Visit) Vesna Kittelson

Podcast/ Vesna Kittelson, “Lost and Found in America”

 

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to ride the winds of innovation? Explore Windswept Kite Turbines, a game-changing technology led by visionary CEO Rod Read, located in the Shetland islands. Discover how these trailblazing kites are reshaping renewable energy by harnessing high altitude winds and their adaptability to various land or ocean locations. Rod shares insights on DIY kite turbine construction, safety, AI integration, and the potential to transform the renewable energy landscape. Prepare to be inspired as we navigate through Rod's experiences in engineering this revolutionary tech, and his unwavering belief in its potential to refine and redefine the future of renewable energy. Don't miss this high-flying adventure in clean energy innovation!

Rod Read is engineer, inventor and CEO of Windswept Kite Turbines. As an advocate for renewable energy, Rod is guest speaker at renewable energy conferences and research contributor in this field.

LINKS
Windswept Kite Turbine  

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Ready for takeoff? Join us as we soar into the captivating world of aviation with Mina Carlson. From high school dreams to becoming a certified private and commercial pilot, flight instructor, and serving in the Air Force Reserves as a flight engineer, Mina shares her remarkable journey while balancing multiple roles.

Explore the future of women in aviation, the pilot shortage and Mina’s vision for equality. Discover her experience as the only female flight engineer, conquering imposter syndrome, and empowering future female pilots. Plus get an inside look at Stars of the North, A Women in Aviation Chapter and their upcoming Girls In Aviation Day event. This isn’t just an episode, it's your boarding pass to inspiration beyond the clouds!

Mina Carlson works for the Mn Dept. of Transportation Office of Aeronautics and is a MSgt and flight engineer with the 96th Airlift Squadron,  Air Force Reserves with overseas deployments.  She has her private and commercial pilot and flight instructor certifications. Mina is Stars of the North, A Women In Aviation Chapter event director for the upcoming Girls In Aviation Day event.

Links:
Stars of the North, A Women In Aviation Chapter
Girls In Aviation Day Event
WAI Women In Aviation International
EEA GirlVenture Camp     
Minnesota Aviation Career Education 

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Joan of Arc Scroll Medal
This brass alloy medal can be worn on a necklace, a keychain, dogtags, on a bag, or in your car.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

Follow me on Instagram!