And So It Flows: Recent Episodes
WTBR 89.7FM - Pittsfield Community Radio
'And So It Flows' combines our unique blend of water music, water news, water culture and deep water talk. 'And So It Flows' brings water outside the cup.
Moisten your ears every Tuesday @ 2pm on WTBR 89.7 FM - Pittsfield Community Radio. Or listen via podcast on Apple, Google, Stitcher and Amazon Audible.
And remember to love your water.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with marine ecologist Andrew Lewin. They discuss his transition from field science to founding the Speak Up for Blue podcast network, exploring how storytelling and digital media inspire action to protect our oceans and waterways.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits down with aquatic vet Dr. Brian Joseph. From North America to Asia, they examine his hands-on work with dolphins, marine life, and aquatic ecosystems in top aquariums, zoos, and specialized nature conservation centers.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Navy veterans Eric Wasileski and TJ Thompson. Through the lens of Veterans For Peace, they discuss utilizing the Deep Dive framework to map out a bold cultural shift to make military pollution and endless war completely obsolete.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, examines how the village of Housatonic represents thousands of communities nationwide dealing with water infrastructure issues and deferred maintenance. He looks at the crisis of neglected works and the national fight for clean water.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, examines how closing the Strait of Hormuz impacts global trade and the global economy. We look at the economic shock of soaring oil prices and the accelerating shift away from the petrodollar, creating new realities for the world economy.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Bob Jones of the Lee Selectboard. They discuss how Lee’s fight for eco-justice against GE, Monsanto, and Bayer has activated his town into eco-warriors using democracy to bring justice to a region impacted by forever chemicals.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, recaps the powerful Deep Dive community water summit. The gathering confronted the Housatonic Valley PCB crisis, effectively bringing critical water and remediation issues back to the center of the regional and growing national stage.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Rev Mike Denton. They talk of spiritual empowerment, UCC’s Mayflower roots, and co-creation of a just world through activism. Plus, a look at the Deep Dive with Chris Hedges and Veterans For Peace to resolve the PCB cleanup.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with his h2o ideas and his water vibe, vibin’ on water for peace—inner and outer peace. Leslie sails through water as a culture of peace, sharing insights on the unified messages of water and the Masaru Emoto Peace Project’s vision.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Eric Wasileski, US Navy vet and peace activist about his time in the Persian Gulf including the Strait Of Hormuz. Eric and Leslie discuss the mess created by a misguided Iran war policy and the toxic legacy of the US military.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Navy combat vet Eric Wasileski. From the high seas, to the sands of Iraq and back to the Berkshires, Eric shares his path of redemption to reach true inner peace and his founding of a Veterans for Peace chapter in Pittsfield, MA.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Prashad Abeysinghe, Aquatics Director at the Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center, Prashad and Leslie to dive into the power of swimming, community, and water safety — and how the pool becomes a place where confidence, connection, and life skills flow.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Williams College’s Amy Holzapfel. Leslie and Amy dive into the Crochet Coral Reef, a worldwide art and science project, where reefs are crocheted, stories are shared, as theater of life unfolds with connection, flow and science.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Chef Andre Lynch. Leslie and Andre discuss Caribbean flavors, hot jerk chicken, and a heaping splash of Caribbean island culture. They talk about food, spice, island life and why water is a partner for the islands’ best dishes.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Lieutenant Scott McGinnis or the Pittsfield, MA Fire Department for an elemental conversation on fire safety, first responding, community outreach and how being a protector and environmentalist shapes his life’s mission
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Leslee Bassman, award-winning journalist of The Berkshire Edge. Leslee discusses the long delayed MA Dept Of Health’s Housatonic River PCB Cancer Study and the report’s various omissions for Berkshire residents and stakeholders.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Jeromie Whalen, congressional candidate for MA’s 1st District.Jeromie and Leslie talk PFAS in Westfield, PCBs in the Housatonic, and how smart investments bioremediation and water infrastructure secures stronger communities.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Brian Berkel, of the Josh Billings RunAground Triathlon. Brian shares about the event’s natural spirit, the culture impact of Berkshire born humorist Josh Billings; and how nature can help heal post-industrial cities of the US.
Crushed Ice, our second episode of our Cold As Ice series, our host and H2O Ambassador Leslie Gabriel sits with Fernando León, of Berkshire Interfaith Organizing. They discuss the vigilant response to ICE raids in Berkshire County. They discuss the impact on neighbors and discuss the app ICE Block.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, sits with Bob Jones, of the Lee, MA Selectboard. Bob joins Leslie to discuss the town’s fierce resistance to a GE/EPA plan to dump PCBs in this Norman Rockwell town. A water fight with national impact, about truth, toxins, and standing up.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, What if water had a soundtrack? Leslie dives into water’s meaning with chill vibes, liquid grooves, and ideas that ripple with consciousness and makes waves.
In this episode, our host and H2O Ambassador Leslie Gabriel talks with Fernando León, of Berkshire Interfaith Organizing, working with dozens of community groups including Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds. They discuss the community response to recent gestapo like ICE raids in Berkshire County,
In this episode, our host and H2O Ambassador Leslie Gabriel talks with Brahm Gartner, a nationally recognized permaculture educator who teaches regenerative agriculture that restores natural ecosystems and water cycles. Brahm and Leslie discuss what it takes to grow a culture that honors thriving.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Manna Jo Greene, former Environmental Director for Clearwater. Manna shares her experience as an eco activist and her friendship with Pete Seeger. Manna also critiques eco activism and shares her new work on Climate Crisis issues.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Andrew Berens of Housatonic, MA, a customer of the violation prone Housatonic Water Works, the embattled private water utility. Andrew shares about tainted water and the fight to restore potable water in his Berkshires village.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Marybeth Mitts, Lenox Select Board member and Independent for the 3rd Berkshire District for the Massachusetts House. Marybeth discusses the water, focusing on H2O issues in Housatonic, MA and the PCB issue in the Berkshires.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews retired Marine Capt Matthew Hoh. A former US State Dept official and Marine Corps commander, Matthew shares his insight into the possible culprits and the deep environmental impact of the 2022 Nord Stream Pipeline Sabotage.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with Doula and Childbirth Educator, Sally Redondo-Padilla. Sally discusses water births and how watery amniotic fluids during birthing prepares babies for healthy living. Sally also shares some historical controversies of midwifery.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with Dr. Rajendra Singh, known as the WaterMan of India. Rajendra discusses his work rejuvenating water bodies in Rajasthan, India. Dr. Singh shares his vision for transforming our human relationship with water and life itself.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with regional PFAS heroine, Kristen Mello. Kristen discusses why she stepped up to become a water leader, when PFAS impacted her and her Westfield, MA community. Kristen, shares how she earned a reputation as a PFAS tough fighter.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, buzzes into the world of bees with Beekeepers Jenna Masters and Carmen Story of Storywoods Apiary. Jenna and Carmen share how bees interact with trees and water. Carmen also shares about Nassau Lake, which was poisoned by PCBs in 1952.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, illustrates the value of water by having a chill show. A relaxed show. He shares ideas of water, music of water and water consciousness and other cool things.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with Zach Quintois, Horticulturist for the Temple University, Ambler Campus Greenhouse. Zach discusses the benefits of regenerative gardening which includes water conservation. Zach shares a step by step guide to create healthy soil.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with John Krol, former 2023 candidate for Pittsfield Mayor. John and Leslie discuss a slew of things including local water issues, his life since coming in 2nd for mayor and John also shares about the new One Berkshire Water Project.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, talks with master sculptor Andrew DeVries about how his Sculpture Trail, which follows the middle branch of the Westfield River, connects art and nature. Andrew shares about his use of bronze, the alloy of the great sculptors of history.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, focuses on World Water Day 2024. Leslie discusses the celebration of water, the origins of World Water Day, why it exists and how, in a world at war, the UN’s theme for World Water Day 2024 is cynically called Leveraging Water for Peace.
n this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Judy Grinnell of Hoosic River Revival. Judy shares how upgrading the flood control system of the Hoosic River will reduce flood risk, bring a better quality of life, restore the river, and boost the economy of North Adams, MA.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Patrick White, Stockbridge Select Board member and candidate for the 3rd Berkshire District for the Massachusetts House. Patrick shares how Housatonic River Valley water stewardship issues play a big part of his platform.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Maria Rundle, about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math). Maria, executive director of Flying Cloud Institute, shares how Flying Cloud inspires education for young people with creative science and art experiences.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Yaqin Aubert, an expert on Rumi’s mystical work and the whole Sufi culture. Yaqin and Leslie have a water talk about the impact of Rumi and his use of water stories and metaphors to bring transformation to the world since 1207 AD.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Farah Momen, a famous chef and organizer of Berkshire County pro-ceasefire protests. Farah and Leslie have a deep talk about water issues impacting Gaza, including women’s hygiene issues and how water is used as a weapon of war.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Ari Zorn, co-owner of Devine Cannabis dispensary of South Egremont, MA. Ari and Leslie have a free flowing talk about cannabis, Ari’s work on rehabbing Smiley’s pond, saving turtles, and the ecological impact of growing weed.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Rachel Donohue, Natural Soap Expert. Rachel, Founder of Natural Wallflower discusses her inspiration as a mom, to create natural soaps Rachel shares the making process and the need to have soaps that are free of toxic synthetics.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Mike Walsh, Sports Editor for The Berkshire Eagle. Mike discusses his life as a journalist, his secret life, as a self professed SUPboarder and member of Dad Bod Trio Team for the 47th Josh Billings Triathlon. Go Josh. Go Mike.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Michelle Crowningshield, a practicing pagan / earth religionist with direct ties to Salem, MA. Michelle talks about full moon water, sacred holistic arts and pagan practices. Michelle also discusses her family’s ties to Salem.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Karen Kalinowsky, a mayoral candidate for Pittsfield, MA. Karen talks about h2o rates, recent flooding, voters’ water concerns. Karen also voices her opposition to the GE Rest Of River Agreement and a proposed PCB dump for Lee, MA.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Steve Adams, a local singer, song writer, water lover and tree hugger. Steve shares his new song ‘As The Crow Flies’, which has become the new fight song for the folks of Lee, MA fighting a planned GE PCB dump for their town.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Pete Marchetti, a mayoral candidate for Pittsfield, MA, about his water vision. Pate talks h2o rates, h2o infrastructure, h2o recreation and his interest to revisit the GE Rest Of River Agreement and a proposed PCB dump for Lee, MA.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Craig Gaetani, Candidate for Mayor of Pittsfield, about his water platform for Pittsfield, MA. Craig Gaetani discusses his passion for water treatment and his commitment to upgrade the process for completing projects in Pittsfield.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Gidon Bromberg, Israeli director of EcoPeace Middle East. Gidon shares how EcoPeace created teams of Jordanian, Palestinian and Israeli environmentalists for Middle East peace . Gidon also discusses his new Green Blue Deal.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews John Krol, Candidate for Mayor of Pittsfield, about his water platform for Pittsfield, MA. John Krrol discusses water recreation, his involvement in creating Riverway Park, water rates, water infrastructure, GE, PCBs and more.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Laurie Smith, of North Street Coin Op, the laundry hangout in Pittsfield, MA. Laurie Smith talks about Laundry Love, where low-income folks do free laundry. Laurie also shares how cistern water systems can help save water.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Jane Winn, Executive Director of Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT). Jane discusses the work of BEAT, her life as an environmentalist, and General Electric’s tainted legacy, which includes a proposed PCB dump in Lee, MA.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Allison Eagan of Principal Planner of Berkshire Regional Planning and Jim McGrath, Pittsfield Open Space, and Natural Resource Program Manager. Allison and Jim share about trees, water and plans for environmental regeneration.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Missy and Rob Leab of Ioka Valley Farm. The Farm produces pure maple syrup and specialty maple products. Missy and Rob share about maple syrup’s relationship to water, local agriculture, and other assorted foodie and farmy stuff.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews retired Marine Capt Matthew Hoh. A former US State Dept official and Marine Corps commander, Matthew shares about the environmental impact of 30 years of war on the ancient rivers of Babylon, the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Purdue University environmental engineer Andrew Whelton, who is testing for toxins in the waters of East Palestine, OH. Andrew shares his environmental findings in East Palestine, since the Norfolk Southern train derailment.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Donna Steckline and Esther Larkin, of Trinity Episcopal Church of Arrington, VA , the creators of WaterLockn, a mini water retreat of LocknFest, a famous music festival. They share about WaterLockn, spirituality and LocknFest.
Harry A. Bateman Memorial Fishing Derby In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Steven Bateman, founder of the 31st Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Fishing Derby. Steven shares about why he started the Jimmy Fund event, in Pittsfield, MA, to honor his dad Harry, who died in 1992 after a long […]
Freestyle In The Water In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, has a freestyle show. Leslie shares his unique blend of water music, water news, water culture and deep water talk. He brings water outside the cup.
Water & Democracy In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Joshua Bloom, Lee, MA, 5th District town representative. Joshua shares about how the proposed GE PCB dump brought together an incredible unity, across the political spectrum to fight against the proposed dump.
Water & Healing In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Kathi Riley, massage therapist, energy healer and founder of Embrace Potential. Kathi shares how water runs through all of healing. Also, Kathi shares an H2O affirmation, “I am hopeful, vibrant and fully alive.”
Water & Regenerative Ecology In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Michael Pergola, founder of the Center for reGenerative Ecology, Education & Enterprise Development (CREEED). Michael discusses regeneration as it refers to ecosystems, especially water, food, economies and life.
Indigenous Water With Fidel Moreno In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Fidel Moreno, the indigenous activist, film director, sustainability trainer and spiritual leader. Fidel discusses Standing Rock protests, Hopi Prophecy and a path forward for healing to our water, and planet.
Cell Towers And Water In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Courtney Gilardi, an advocate for safe cell towers for Pittsfield, MA. Able to garner national attention to Pittsfield’s cell tower issues, Courtney also discusses how cell tower issues are related to water.
US Marine Jerry Ensminger Discusses Camp Lejeune Water In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Jerry Ensminger, retired Marine Master Sergeant, who led the charge to unearth the toxic water mess @ Camp Lejeune. Jerry and Leslie also discuss how Jerry is planning to visit the Berkshires and get involved in the water contamination […]
Water And Norman Rockwell In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Stephanie Haboush Plunkett is the Deputy Director and Chief Curator of the Norman Rockwell Museum regarding the water related works of Norman Rockwell. Stephanie and Leslie will also splash out and hash out water works such as the eminently fun Hey […]
SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT – In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, is back from a recent hiatus and shares great news with our water loving audience. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT – The announcement is that Jerry Ensminger, Former Marine Sergeant, Who Led The Charge To Clean Up The Toxic Water Situation @ Camp Lejeune will […]
Ahoy water loving mateys, in this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews one of the founders of International Talk Like A Pirate Day. John Baur, who is also known by his nom de pirate “Ol’ Chumbucket”. Ol’ Chumbucket is the co-creator of International Talk Like a Pirate Day, which is celebrated on […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Claire Laney, of Lee, MA. Claire lives a few hundred feet from the proposed site of the proposed PCB Dump in Lee, MA Clare shares personal journey with the epic PCB dump proposed for Lee, MA and highlights how her personal journey with the proposed […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, illustrates the value of water by having a chill show. A relaxed show. He shares ideas of water, music of water and water consciousness and other cool things. In this show, Leslie Gabriel urges us all to enjoy and love our water.
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews nationally recognized environmental educator and master naturalist Victor C. Capelli. Victor was also the former resident naturalist for Springside Park and is one of the founders of Berkshire Urban Forest. Victor describes how he first got interested in Urban Forests. We also discuss how […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Kristina Cardot, of Corazonidos Community School. Kristina describes how she first got interested in water access for children. We also discuss Corazonidos’s new hands-on water education taking place at Pittsfield’s Riverway Park and why its important to how educational practices should provide a connection […]
The Chill Show …In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, illustrates the value of water by having a chill show. A relaxed show. He shares ideas of water, music of water and water consciousness and other cool things.In this show, Leslie Gabriel urges us all to enjoy and love our water.
Scuba in Pittsfield and beyond. In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Jerry Smith, the founder of the one of the oldest scuba companies in North America, Pittsfield based, Action Sports & Travel. We discuss how he has turned his small storefront into one of the most sought after scuba training […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Gordon Bailey, the newly elected Selectman of Lee, MA. We discuss the recent elections in Lee, MA and how the recent elections in Lee, MA have been impacted by water, PCBs and democracy. We also discuss how voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure calling […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Peter Stasiowski of Interprint, about their work on corporate water stewardship and as part of their commitment to corporate environmental responsibility We discuss what that specifically means for our Pittsfield area and their full global operations. You can find out more about Interprint’s corporate […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Kelley Hall of the Housatonic Valley Association, about their new project called Explore-A-Thon, which is spurring personal, family and group natural outings and experiences with the great Housatonic River Valley region. Kelly discusses the history of the Housatonic Valley Association, the value of nearly […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Christy McGill, award winning film producer, about her new film award winning film, PASANG: In The Shadow of Everest. Christy discusses the making of the film, a story of Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, who overcame profound obstacles and risked her life to become the first […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Liz Goodman of Berkshire Community Rowing. Liz discusses how Berkshire Community brings Berkshire county residents a new relationship with water by creating programming for community residents for directly experiencing water and going out onto the water. Liz also highlights how her organization emphasizes community […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Jennifer Darby founder of the famed Irish dance school Scoil Rince Bréifne Ó Ruairc (pronounced: Skoal RIN-ka BREF-nee O RORK) Jennifer discusses the intersection of dance and water and water consciousness, such as the practical need of proper hydration and the movement and flow […]
In this episode, Leslie Gabriel, our host and H2O Ambassador, interviews Meredyth Babcock, Outreach Coordinator for Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee. Meredyth discusses the ‘Wild and Scenic’ designation, the work of empowering communities and how to stand up for waterways. Also a famous puppeteer, Meredyth discusses how her puppeteering has flowed into her valiant […]