In this episode we met with Mike Brindisi to talk about his current work with Matt Masur on the “Good News York” podcast bringing good news to their listeners about all things positive taking place throughout New York State. We also had a great time hearing about his incredible history in the entertainment industry as a member of the national touring musical act, The New York Rock, an acting career that saw him appearing on SNL and various product commercials, as well as time spent on stage as a stand up comedian. Mike is an incredibly personable human being whose energy is absolutely contagious and we had a great time recording this episode with him. Enjoy!

Mike's Official Website

https://www.mikebrindisi.com/

Good News York Podcast 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-news-york-by-growth-mode-content/id1802960206

Good News York Official Site 

https://goodnewsyork.com/

In this episode we met with Owego resident Josh Marland to discuss his relationship with the town itself, what drew him to incorporate insects into his art and creative expression, as well as the ways in which he sees an intersection of art and science. Josh enjoys collaborating with other creative types and works to provide guidance and inspiration to those wishing to express themselves through artistic means. He hopes one day to open a gallery and cafe style business in Owego where patrons will be able to experience art and foods influenced by and containing ingredients made from a variety of insects. He also actively engages in working with data for good to help bring about positive social changes regionally, nationally, and globally.

https://www.instagram.com/avm_owego/?hl=en

In this episode we met with Sheamus Burns to talk about the Bullthistle Studio & Art Gallery located in Owego, NY.  We took some time to talk about his life, what drew him to art in his youth, and the ways in which he is influenced by the natural landscapes of the Finger Lakes Region. Sheamus envisions the Bullthistle becoming a community gathering place where artists and art enthusiasts can gather to share their work, attend workshops, and help to strengthen the connections within the Town of Owego and beyond.

https://www.bullthistle.gallery/

Greetings FLX flow listeners! Colleen and I are steadily working on season three recordings and hope to start releasing episodes early in the new year. In the meantime, we want to ensure that you have a little something to listen to between seasons and so we’ll be releasing some mini episodes to fill in the gap. In this episode I met with Liv Licursi to talk about her experiences at the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh Scotland this past summer. Before continuing, you might want to take a moment to listen to season 2 episode 7 The Family Copoli Goes to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival part 1 to familiarize yourself with that conversation. Enjoy!

We would like to take a moment to thank all of our listeners for their support as we close out and wrap up season 2 of the FLX Flow podcast. In this episode we reflect on the time spent with our fantastic guests, their contributions to the show, and what we learned from their life stories. We’re going to be taking a bit of a break as we prepare for season 3 and will hopefully be dropping some bonus content between seasons. Thanks so much and we’ll be back soon! 

In this episode we met with Jeffrey Palmer, a Kiowa filmmaker whose path is as unique as his storytelling. From his early days at the University of Oklahoma, where a chance encounter with ethnographic films sparked his passion, to his groundbreaking work at Sundance, Jeff's story is one of perseverance and creativity. He provided us with a look at his work in academia and we learned about his dedication as an instructor to help aspiring film students reach their potential through the creation of vibrant films.  We also discovered how his commitment to authentic storytelling, particularly within Native American communities, has shaped his career and led to acclaimed projects like N. Scott Momaday: Words from a Bear. Jeff's experiences highlight the importance of who tells the story and the power of film to preserve cultural heritage.

Jeff's Film Work 

In this episode we met with Loren Penman to explore her journey of creating the Autism Nature Trail, a unique outdoor space designed for individuals on the autism spectrum located in Letchworth State Park. Loren shared insights into the trail's origin, its design principles focused on inclusivity, and the various sensory stations that enhance the visitor experience. Her words highlight the importance of community engagement, feedback from families, and future aspirations for expanding the trail's impact. We also examined the collaborative efforts that made the project possible and the ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the trail for all visitors.

https://autismnaturetrail.com/

https://parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth

In this episode I met with the exceptionally talented Andy Colpitts who envisioned the Family Copoli and brought it to life with close friend and collaborator, Michael Wookey. Andy is a playwright, skilled puppeteer, burlesque dancer, and is currently focused on completing his Phd at Cornell University. This episode was recorded just days after the Family Copoli was performed at the Ithaca Soil Factory where it received a standing ovation from an enthusiastic audience and shortly after the cast and crew had departed for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Find out more about this production at the official site. 

https://thefamilycopoli.com/

More on this year's Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

https://www.edfringe.com/

In this episode Chris met with several members of the cast and crew of The Family Copoli: A New Post-Apocalyptic Burlesque Musical, written by Andy Colpitts with musical score by Michael Wookey.  This incredible musical had its first official first run at Cornell University's Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts back in 2023. In part one of this two part series you’ll be hearing from Liv Licursi who plays the role of Martula and is also the lead producer / director, co producer and music director Daniela Rodriguez-Chavez, and Oscar Llodra who plays the role of Frolino and is also the set designer. 

Find out more about this production at the official site. 

https://thefamilycopoli.com/

More on this year's Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

https://www.edfringe.com/

In this episode we met with Rachel Kennedy to talk about her experiences working with the encore players community theater and how she has grown both as an actress and director in Trumansburg. We also took some time to discuss her creative talents as a local artist and to examine the various mosaics that she has created, the buildings that they adorn, and the stories behind them.