Connections Radio

Connections Radio Show – December 6, 2025

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 [http://www.wecanmn.org/]

Connections Radio Show – November 15, 2025

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 [http://www.ginabarreca.com/] • www.WoodhallPress.com [http://www.woodhallpress.com/]

Connections Radio Show – November 1, 2025

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 [http://www.charisecc.org/]

Connections Radio 10.25.25

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 [http://www.BrendaVarda.com] • www.youtube.com/@BrendaVarda [http://www.youtube.com/@BrendaVarda]

Connections Radio Show – October 18, 2025

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 [http://www.IndivisibleTwinCities.org] • wwwIndivisible.org [http://wwwIndivisible.org]